***** CHAPTER 13 *****

Abigail opened the door and stepped out on to the patio; from here you could see right over the town and see the mountains in the distance, the view was breath taking. She had been standing there for several minutes when she sensed someone was watching her. Abigail turned to see Brian behind her. Sheer terror swept over her, somehow he had found her and she knew that if he got his hands on her the beatings would be worse than before. She cautiously backed away from him, questions buzzing through her mind; how on earth he had found her? Had Mrs Lavelle told him? Had Kristina told him? She didn’t care she just had to get away from him. Where was Carlos? Brian didn’t say a word, he didn’t need to; his eyes said it all. He wasn’t going to let her get away from him again and he would make her pay for leaving him and looking a fool. Abigail quickly turned and ran down the steps leading to the road. But when she reached the bottom she found the gate was locked. She looked back to see Brian at the top of the steps, he wasn’t in any hurry; he knew she couldn’t get away. Abigail quickly glanced around, trying to find an escape route. She could see a small path along the edge of the garden; she didn’t know where it led to but the only other way out was back up the steps to where Brian was. Without giving it another thought Abigail ran down the path, she kept running and running not daring to look back in case she tripped and he caught up with her. As she turned the corner she ran straight in to Brian. Where did he come from? How did he get here, the steps went in the other direction. Brian still didn’t say a word to Abigail, she knew what he was thinking; he had played mind games with her before. He got his pleasure from letting her own mind think up what he was going to do her. Abigail turned to run from him but he grabbed her by her wrists and threw her against the wall. She used all her strength to try and kick or punch him but it was useless, he was too strong for her. She started to scream, hoping that someone would hear her.

Carlos had just started to drift off to sleep when he heard something. He laid there for a second trying to make out what the noise was. Usually the grounds were quiet and he didn’t recognise the noise. Then he heard it again, it was a woman’s voice. Carlos shot up out of bed. Abby, he thought. He quickly put on a pair of boxers and ran into her room and switched on the light. Abigail was still in bed but she was having a nightmare, thrashing around on the bed. Carlos sat on the edge of the bed and tried to grab hold of her arms but she fought against him, thinking it was Brian.

“Brian!” she screamed, punching her fists in the air. “No, let me go.”

“Abby wake up.” Carlos said, still trying to hold on to her arms to prevent her from hitting him. “Abby, listen to me, you’re dreaming. Abby.”

Abigail opened her eyes, gasping for breath. .

“Brian?” she said, looking puzzled, tears running down her face,

“No it’s me, Carlos.” he whispered, as he pulled her into his arms. “You were having a nightmare.”

“Carlos? But… I don’t understand.” Abigail said between sobs. “You mean it was all a bad dream?”

“Yes, it was all a bad dream.” Carlos replied, brushing her wet hair off her face from where she had been crying.

“But it seemed so real.” she said quietly sniffing as she leant her head against his bare chest. “I really thought he was going to kill me this time.”

“He can’t hurt you anymore Abby.” Carlos said, gently running his hand up and down her back. “Not in your dreams and not while you’re with me. I won’t let him lay another finger on you.”

“God forbid if Brian ever finds me, there will be hell to pay.” Abigail said, closing her eyes tightly. “And you won’t always be here to protect me Carlos.”

“Well I’m not planning on going anywhere.” Carlos said, pulling away from her and cupping her face in his hands. “Not without you.”

“Why are you doing all this for me?” Abigail asked, looking at him. “You could have just given me the address for a women’s refuge. No normal person would go to such great lengths and do all this for a stranger.”

“I thought we agreed that we were friends, not strangers.” Carlos replied, trying to avoid the question. He couldn’t tell her why he had done all this, or could he? “Friends help each other out.”

Abigail stared in to his honey brown eyes, she wanted to kiss him so much. If she was going to stay here she had to know if he felt the same way about her. There was no way she was going to be able to sleep under the same roof with him, knowing how she felt about him and not being able to do a thing about it.

“What would you say if I said I wanted us to be more than friends?” Abigail said quietly.

Carlos looked at Abigail and smiled. “I would say you have been reading my mind.”

“Really?” Abigail said, sounding surprised.

“Really.” Carlos replied. “But I didn’t think you would want to start another relationship, not so soon.”

“You couldn’t call what me and Brian had a relationship.“ Abigail said sighing. “We were over a long time ago.”

“So does that mean what I think it means?” Carlos asked.

“I don’t know. Despite what you think, I can’t read minds.” Abigail said, giggling. “You had better just tell me.”

Carlos felt a huge smile appear on his face when Abigail giggled. It was the sweetest sound, to hear her laugh after knowing all she had been through. Carlos thought about how much he cared for her and before he realised what he had done, the words came spilling out. “I love you, Abby.”

Abigail looked at Carlos, with a look of shock on her face. It soon changed to a look of understanding and then warmth.

“I love you too.” she said softly.

Carlos put a hand up to her face and caressed her cheek. “You don’t know how happy you’ve made me, hearing you say that.”

“I think I can guess.” Abigail said, smiling as she put her hand on Carlos’ hand.

Carlos leant closer to Abigail, his mouth hovering over hers. He wanted to kiss her but he wanted to be sure that she was ready. When Abigail didn’t object Carlos gently brushed his lips over hers. He felt her hands on his chest as he pressed his body against her. After a few seconds Carlos gently pulled away.

“I think I should go now.” he said, getting up from the bed. “You need some sleep.”

Abigail watched him get up and turn off the light before leaving the room. He looked just as good in boxers as he did in jeans and a shirt. Abigail laid down and thought about what Carlos had just said to her; he loved her. Spain was getting better and better all the time.

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

David put the key in the lock and let himself in to the apartment; straight away he knew something was different. Usually he could smell cooking coming from the kitchen or hear the stereo in the background. But he couldn’t smell any food, the apartment was deadly quiet and in complete darkness.

“Krissy? Are you here?” he called out, closing the door.

David switched on the lights and smiled to himself when he saw her; Kristina was fast asleep on the couch. He hung his jacket up and walked over to the couch, crouching down beside her.

“Krissy?” he said softly, as he gently rubbed her shoulder. “Wake up.”

“Huh? David, what are you doing home?” Kristina asked, rubbing her eyes and trying to make out the numbers on the wall clock. “What time is it?”

“It’s a little after seven." he replied, after checking his watch.

“Oh crap!” Kristina said, quickly getting up from the couch. “I was going to cook you your favourite meal but I was so tired, I was only going to have a short nap. I’ve been asleep hours.”

“It doesn’t matter Krissy.” David said, reaching out to steady Kristina as he noticed her start to sway. “Are you feeling alright? You look a bit pale.”

“I’m fine.” Kristina replied. “Like I said, I was tired I just needed a rest. I‘ll go and start on dinner.”

Kristina went to turn towards the kitchen but she felt dizzy again and stumbled back into David.

“Okay, that’s it! You’re going to bed and I’ll do dinner.” David said as he picked her up effortlessly and carried her to the bedroom. “You’re not pregnant are you?” David asked, out of the blue. “I mean I know we’ve been careful, but it would be great if you were.”

“No, I’m not pregnant David.” Kristina replied sleepily. “It’s just the odd headache and they keep me awake sometimes. It will soon pass, they always do.”

“You’ve had them before?” David asked as he sat her down on the edge of the bed and helped her to get undressed.

“A few times.” Kristina replied as she started to undo her blouse. “Honestly David, it’s just a headache. It’s not worth worrying about.”

“How long have you had them?” David asked, slipping the nightshirt over her head. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Only a couple of weeks, and it’s just a headache David.” she replied. “You don’t tell me about every headache you get do you?”

“No, but something’s not right and I’m not going to argue with you Krissy.” David said, pulling the bed sheet up over her. “If you still feel like this is in the morning then I’m driving you to the doctors myself. Now you get some rest. I‘ll give you a shout when dinner is ready.”

David kissed Kristina on the forehead, turned out the light and headed for the kitchen. He was a little worried about the headaches that Kristina had been getting. Maybe that was why she had been acting so strangely the last couple of weeks. He just hoped it was nothing serious.

***** CHAPTER 14 *****

Carlos yawned as he looked at himself in the mirror. He was getting ready to leave for the theatre where he would be performing in the Barber of Seville later that evening. After leaving Abigail’s room last night, Carlos had laid awake for some time thinking about Abigail. Carlos had been wanting to kiss Abigail for a long time. But now each time he kissed her he wanted more, especially now that he knew how she felt about him; she loved him. Carlos knew it was much too soon for anything more to happen between them and he didn’t want her to feel pressured in to anything. He had left his door ajar so that he could hear if Abigail had any more nightmares, but she had slept peacefully for the remainder of the night. Carlos had then woken up early, long before the alarm was due to go off. He had been unable to get back to sleep, knowing that Abigail was asleep in the next room. But Carlos had managed to get a couple of hours sleep between the shopping trip he and Abigail made earlier that morning and the rehearsals that he had to attend later that afternoon. While Carlos had been rehearsing Abigail had been walking around the grounds of the villa, getting used to the area. After having the night mare that Brian had found her, she wanted to know her way around the area, just in case she needed to make an escape. She was probably worrying about nothing, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

“Are you ready Abigail?” Carlos asked, as he knocked lightly on her door.

A few seconds later the door opened and there stood Abigail in a long red flowing dress.

“I’m ready.” Abigail replied, stepping out in to the hallway. “How do I look?”

“Absolutely stunning.” Carlos said, holding out his hand to her. “You’re going to be the most beautiful woman there.”

Abigail blushed, as she took Carlos’ hand and followed him outside to the car that was waiting to take them to the ‘Teatro Real’.

Abigail was thankful that it was a short drive to the Teatro Real, where Carlos would be performing. She had never been to a big social event of this kind and was starting to feel nervous. Carlos noticed her uneasiness, Abigail couldn’t seem to get comfortable and kept playing with the curls in her hair; he gently squeezed her hand reassuringly. Abigail looked at Carlos and saw him smiling at her and soon forgot about being nervous. The car pulled up outside the theatre and Carlos escorted Abigail to her seat in the front row. He wanted her to have the best view possible. He kissed her gently on the lips before quickly making his way to his dressing room to get ready for his performance.

It wasn’t long before the opera began and Abigail was glued to her seat watching every move Carlos made and listening to every note he sang. At every opportunity he had, Carlos had looked at Abigail checking to make sure she was still there and that she was alright. But Abigail was just fine, she was enjoying every moment of it.

The evening soon came to an end and Carlos had asked one of the members of staff to show Abigail to a small room backstage after the performance. Abigail didn’t have to wait long while Carlos removed his make up and changed in to his normal clothes and they were soon sitting in the car on their way back home.

“So what did you think of the performance?” Carlos asked, looking at Abigail.

“I loved it.” Abigail replied. “But if I’m honest there were times I didn’t understand what was going on, I was a little lost. I mean the singing and the voices were amazing but my Spanish is awful.”

“I’m sorry Abby, I wasn’t thinking.” Carlos said, frowning. “I should’ve explained the plot to you, then at least you would have had some idea of what was happening.”

“Maybe I could see it again?” Abigail said, smiling. “Perhaps I could come and see you rehearse next time.”

“Of course you can.” Carlos replied. “You can come and watch me rehearse anytime you want to.”

The car pulled into the drive way and pulled up outside the front of the villa. Carlos helped Abigail out of the car and they made their way inside.

“Would you like to anything to eat or drink?” Carlos asked as he closed the front door.

“No thank you, Carlos.” Abigail replied. “I don’t want to see ungrateful but would you mind if I went to bed? I’m very tired, I think it must be all the fresh air I’ve been getting.”

“You don’t have to ask me.” Carlos said, taking her hand in his. “You live here too now. If you’re tired, go to bed. It’s your home, please treat it as such.”

“Thank you.” Abigail said quietly as she looked up in to his eyes. “And thank you for a wonderful evening. I enjoyed every minute of it.”

“Even though you didn’t understand all of it?” Carlos asked, as he wiggled his eyebrows at her, making Abigail giggle.

“Yes, even though I didn’t understand all of it.” Abigail said, smiling at him. “But I thought you were brilliant. I’d love to hear you sing again.”

“That won’t be a problem.” Carlos said, as he led the way to her room. “You can join me at the rehearsals any time.”

Carlos and Abigail stopped outside her room. “I’m glad you enjoyed this evening.” Carlos said, running a hand down her arm. We’ll have to do it again. Maybe next time we can go to an opera where I’m not performing.”

“That would be brilliant.” Abigail replied, before yawning. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realise I was so tired.”

“Don’t worry.” Carlos said, before he himself yawned. “It‘s been a long day for both of us. I‘ll see you in the morning.” Carlos bent down and softly kissed her goodnight.

Abigail closed her door and sat down on the end of the bed. She took off her shoes and started to get undressed. After several minutes of struggling with the zip on the back of her dress, Abigail realised that she was going to have to ask Carlos for his help. She made her way to Carlos’ room and gently knocked on the door. She had noticed he was tired earlier and just hoped that he hadn’t already fallen asleep otherwise she would have to spend all night literally stuck in this dress. Abigail was just about to knock for a second time when Carlos opened the door, wearing nothing but a pair of boxers. She stood there staring at him for several seconds before Carlos spoke.

“Is everything alright?” Carlos asked.

Abigail suddenly remembered why she was there. “This is a little embarrassing.” she replied. “But I can’t seem to undo the zip on my dress. I was wondering if you could undo it for me.”

“Of course I can.” Carlos replied. “Come in here for a moment, the light will be better.”

Abigail followed Carlos in to his room and turned her back to him. Carlos pulled at the zip several times, trying to work it free. “It looks like there’s some material caught between the teeth on the zip.“ Carlos said, as he pulled on the zip again. “But I think I can get it free.”

Several minutes later and Carlos had managed to free the material and undo the zip.

“There. All done.” Carlos said, standing back. “Now you can finally get some sleep.”

While Carlos had been trying to undo her dress, Abigail had been thinking how she could tell him that she wanted to take things further in their relationship. But she was struggling to find the words. Then she remembered an old saying, actions speak louder than words. With that thought in mind, she turned to face Carlos and let her dress fall to the floor.

“Abigail, what are you doing?” Carlos said quietly, his eyes skimming over her body.

“What does it look like?” she replied, as she stepped out of her dress and placed her hands on his chest. “Are you still tired?”

Carlos slowly shook his head as Abigail guided him back towards the bed.

“Abby.” Carlos said, lightly gripping her arms stopping her from going any further. “Are you sure?”

“I’m sure.” she whispered as she kissed his neck, leaving a trail a of kisses, slowly moving down to his chest.

“I love you.” he whispered in her ear, as he wrapped his arms around her waist. “And I want to show you just how much I love you. If you’ll let me.”

“I love you too.” Abigail replied, as she caressed his cheek. “And the answer’s yes.”

Carlos picked her up in his arms and gently laid her down on the bed.

“Are you sure this is what you want?” he asked, looking down in to her sparking green eyes,

“Yes, I’m sure, Carlos.“ she said, looking up at him.

That night, Carlos made love to Abigail.

***** CHAPTER 15 *****

David opened the fridge to see what they had to eat; then he saw the pizza base on the shelf. He smiled to himself when he saw it. Kristina had told him she wanted to cook him his favourite meal but he never found out why. But knowing Kristina there must have been a good reason as to why she was cooking it, there always was. As he put all the toppings on the pizza and put it in the oven he thought about what the good news could be; he hoped it meant that he had got another role in a show. His thoughts soon drifted from the good news back to Kristina. The headaches she had been getting must be bad if they were keeping her awake. Maybe that’s why she had been acting strangely these last couple of weeks, she did look tired and kept losing her concentration.

As soon as the pizza was ready, David served dinner and took a plate in to Kristina. He put the plate down on the bedside table and sat down on the edge of the bed. Kristina was asleep, but even as she slept she still looked as if the headaches were causing her pain; she had a tensed look on her face. David wasn’t sure if he should wake her especially since she was so tired. But she had to eat and he didn’t want to make things worse by making her miss meals. David gently brushed a stray hair from her face, and with that slightest touch Kristina started to stir.

“David?” Kristina mumbled sleepily, as she looked up him.

“Hey beautiful.” he whispered. “Are you hungry? I’ve cooked pizza.”

“You found it then.” she said, smiling.

“You know me, I can always sniff out good food.” he said, caressing her cheek. “I guess you have something to tell me.”

“I do?” she said, looking puzzled.

“You always cook my favourite meal when you have something to tell me.” he said, winking at her. “So come on, eat up and tell me what’s happened.”

Kristina sat up in bed and David placed the tray of food on her lap.

“I had a call from a guy called Eugene Mardell earlier today.” she said, before taking a bite of pizza. “It was about one of the roles you auditioned for.”

“Eugene Mardell?” David said, “I don’t recognise the name. Who does he work for?”

“I’ve never spoken to him before.” Kristina said leaning back against the pillow. “I usually deal with Joel, but apparently Eugene works at the Australian Opera House office here in New York.”

“Australian Opera House!” David exclaimed, jumping up from the bed. “Does that mean I got the part? Am I the next Tony in West Side Story?”

“Yes, you got the part.” Kristina replied, grinning from ear to ear, at seeing David so happy. “They loved you, they said they knew you had the part as soon as they heard you, seeing the other entrants was just a formality. You did it babe.”

David sat down on the bed and hugged Kristina.

“Careful, you’re going to get pizza everywhere at this rate.” Kristina said, giggling as the pizza slid off the plate and on to the bed.

“Who cares about pizza when I’m the new Tony.” David said, picking up the plate and the remains of the pizza and placing them on the bedside table. “You know what this means, don’t you!”

Kristina knew all too well what it meant. It would mean that David’s career would finally take off and as he accepted more and more roles, she would begin to see him less and less. She tried not to show her disappointment as she smiled at him.

“I know what it means, Davey. And I know how long you’ve waited for this.” Kristina said, hugging him back, tears stinging her eyes. “I’m so proud of you.”

As they pulled away, David put his hand under her chin and lifted her face up to him.

“Are you crying?” he asked, noticing her watery eyes.

Kristina shook her head. “No, I’m just happy for you.”

“You know how much I love you, don’t you.” he said, before kissing her on the forehead. “I know this means I’ll be busier than ever and that I’ll have to travel a lot. But just remember I love you. And if we love each other, we will find a way to be together. We’ll be fine. Don’t worry okay?”

Kristina nodded as David laid on the bed next to her and wrapped his arms around her.

“I’ll always love you Krissy.” David whispered in to her ear. “No matter what happens, I’ll always love you.”

Those were the last words Kristina heard before she drifted off to sleep.

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

It was Tuesday morning and Stephanie was getting ready to leave for the concert hall. She had overslept; it was unlike her but she had been tossing and turning all night. She could only put it down to nerves about her first date with Urs. After all, she had wanted Urs for several years but had never gotten this close to having him. She didn’t think she would feel like this, it was all she had ever dreamt of since she first met Urs. So why was she so worried? Perhaps she was worried things wouldn’t turn out the way she wanted or that he wasn’t ready for a relationship and when things went wrong between them he would blame her for rushing him and he would never consider loving anyone again. Stephanie had to stop thinking like that. She had got her date with Urs and that’s all she should be thinking about now. If thing something happened she would deal with that when the time came.

Thoughts of Urs weren’t the only thing that had been keeping Stephanie awake. She had also been thinking about David, she wasn’t sure what to do about him. She had to admit he was very talented. Stephanie had been to see him in perform in several productions and was surprised that he hadn’t been offered more roles in major plays. He certainly deserved a chance to prove himself and Stephanie knew that she could do a lot for his career. Yet she was still worried about Kristina. She didn’t want to encourage anything between Urs and Kristina, but seeing as she had a date with Urs tonight, maybe she was over reacting. If everything went well on their date perhaps she would contact David.

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

Urs was sitting outside Stephanie’s apartment block. He had already called up for her and she told him she was running late, and that she would be a few more minutes. While Urs was sitting waiting for her he was thinking about how he had gotten himself in to this situation. Urs had spent most of yesterday thinking about how he could ask Stephanie out, so it wasn’t done on impulse. Maybe he was trying to prove something to himself, that he could ask another woman out and not feel guilty about it; that he could be with another woman after Aimee. Urs wasn’t going to back out of the date, that wouldn’t be fair on Stephanie, but maybe afterwards he could just tell her that he had made a mistake, that it was too soon. Urs knew he would be lying to Stephanie if he told her that, but he couldn‘t tell her the real reason. That there was only one woman who had made him feel alive, made him start to feel human again, a woman who was beautiful both inside and out, a woman who made his pulse race and could make him feel like he was the only man in the room with just one look. Urs knew he was ready to love again but there was only one woman that he could ever imagine loving; and it wasn’t Stephanie.

“Okay, let’s go.” Stephanie said, as she got in the car and put her seat belt on. “Sorry about that but I didn’t get much sleep last night. That’s why I overslept.”

“That’s okay.” Urs replied as he pulled away from the kerb. “The traffic doesn’t look too bad so we should get there on time. How come you couldn‘t sleep? Is something bothering you?”

“If I’m completely honest with you I’m a little nervous about our date tonight.” Stephanie replied as she looked out the car window.

“Nervous?” Urs said, sounding surprised. “Why on earth would you be nervous? It’s not as if we don’t know each other. Just think of it as dinner with a friend and if anything happens we‘ll take it from there.”

Stephanie continued to look out the window. If she thought, he had said ‘if’ anything happens. She wanted it to happen but by the sounds of it Urs wasn’t so sure he did. And he certainly didn’t sounds nervous about the date. Or maybe he was looking forward to the date, that’s why he didn’t seem bothered about tonight. Stephanie kept that thought in her head as they made their way to the concert hall. She wasn’t going to worry about what might or might not happen tonight. As Urs said, if anything happens, they would take it from there. But Stephanie was going to try her hardest to make sure something did happen.

*************************************
Kristina had woken up early that morning with another painful headache. This time she had woken David and he had insisted she call the doctors. She tried to make out it was nothing, but David wouldn’t listen. He had said that if she didn’t ring the surgery then he would do it himself. Kristina had given in and phoned the doctors.

She got out of the car and looked up at the tall imposing building. She was nervous, she’d never liked doctors. But then who did? Kristina looked at David as he walked round from the drivers side of the car and took her hand.

“Come on it will be fine.” he said, gently squeezing it. “I’m right here with you. And you know Doctor Slater is a good man.”

Doctor Slater had been David’s family doctor for years, before he was born. When Kristina had moved to the area David had suggested she register with him. Kristina had never needed to see Doctor Slater before but she had met him several times at family dinners when her and David had visited his parents. She like Doctor Slater but that still didn’t change the fact that she hated doctors and that she felt as if she was about to be sick at any moment. David led her inside the building and they made their way to the waiting room.

***** CHAPTER 16 *****

“I asked you a question.” Kristina said, getting impatient when David didn‘t answer. “Who told you?”

“Lyndee.” David replied.

Lyndee was Kristina’s best friend, they had known each other since grade school. She had been there for her when everything had gone wrong with her and Harvey. Kristina, Harvey and Lyndee had all known each other at school. Kristina had started dating Harvey when they were just 17 years old. Everyone thought they were the perfect couple and that one day they would eventually marry. But neither of them were in a hurry and were happy to just stay as they were. Which was just as well.

Harvey had always wanted a career in music and all throughout school he had taken part in plays and musicals and had taken music lessons. He started up a band in school with three other friends, he sang lead vocals and played guitar. Kristina had to admit they were pretty good. When they had left school Harvey and Kristina had moved in together. It was a small rented apartment, nothing special, but they made it their own. They had both got full time jobs, but for extra money Harvey would travel around to the local bars and clubs bringing in extra money and at the same time trying to get some local record companies to listen to their work. No one was interested in their music so Harvey decided that they needed to move and try their luck else where. The other band members were all for it, but Kristina had given up a job and friends she loved so that she could be with Harvey.

So Kristina moved 300 miles to another area and started again. Kristina found it hard to make new friends and she didn’t enjoy the job as much as her old one. She didn’t go out much as Harvey was always busy rehearsing. The only time she went out was to see Harvey perform but sometimes she was too tired. She had been doing lots of overtime to help pay the bills. The cost of living was more expensive here and the money Harvey was making was going towards new equipment for the band. They were convinced that’s why people weren’t taking them seriously. It might have been a coincidence but a few weeks after they bought their new equipment they were approached by a record company. But there was a catch, they were only interested in Harvey, they didn’t want the other band members. Kristina had tried to talk Harvey in to staying with the band and waiting for another deal as the other members were his friends and they had been loyal to him. But Harvey was more interested in making money and having his music career. He had signed the record deal alone, and told her he had to go away for a couple of months to record an album. He was given an advance salary and told Kristina he would send her some money to help with bills and so they could move to a better apartment. But no money ever came and Kristina never heard from him again; the last time she saw him was on TV, accepting an award for his third album which had just gone Gold. Kristina had fallen behind on the rent, and no amount of overtime would pay off the bills. Kristina had called Lyndee as she didn’t want her family to know what had happened. Lyndee had paid off her debts and Kristina had moved back to New York and moved in with Lyndee until she had sorted out a new job and paid back everything she owed her.

David hadn’t meant to tell Kristina that he knew about Harvey. He was sure that Kristina would eventually tell him but until then he wasn’t going to mention it. Yet he had let it slip and now he would have to tell her.

“Lyndee!” Kristina exclaimed.

“Don’t be angry with her.” David said, looking worried. He hadn’t meant for Lyndee to get in trouble. “She was only looking out for you.”

“And how do you work that out?” Kristina replied. “You wait until I see her. That woman never could stop talking.”

“I ran in to her when I was in town one day.” David said, putting his seat belt on. “It was about a week or two after we’d started seeing each other. She tried ward me off, saying that you’d already been badly hurt by someone in my line of work. She told me what happened with Harvey. Lyndee didn’t want to see you go through it all again, so she basically told me that if I hurt you, she’d hurt me. ”

Kristina couldn’t help but laugh. That was exactly the type of thing Lyndee would say.

“Does that mean I’m forgiven?” David asked, when he saw her smile.

“There’s nothing to forgive.” Kristina replied. “I’m sorry for snapping at you but that’s a part of my life I’d rather forget about. The less people that know about it the better.”

“I won’t mention it again.” David said, putting his hand on her knee. “I promise.”

David and Kristina drove back to their apartment in silence. Kristina was trying to forget about Harvey and hoped that things with her and David wouldn’t turn out the same way. David was secretly hoping that Kristina was pregnant. He wanted nothing more than to be a father to her children.

*******************************
It was early evening in Paris and Urs and Stephanie had just arrived at ’St.Jacques’. Urs had phoned and reserved a table earlier that day. He thought he might have been too late as it was a popular restaurant, but luckily someone had just cancelled.

Urs and Stephanie were shown to their table and each given a menu. Urs had to admit, Stephanie did look attractive, wearing a long black dress with thin shoulder straps and a plunging V neck. Stephanie couldn’t take her eyes off Urs. He almost looked like a model when he wore a suit with his hair tied back in a ponytail; Urs was wearing a black suit, with a white shirt and black tie.

“You look nice.” Urs said, as he adjusted his tie.

“Thank you.” Stephanie replied. “So do you.”

Both of them felt a little awkward, trying to think of something to talk about. But it wasn’t long before their meals were served and they started to relax and found it easier to talk. That and the fact that Urs and Stephanie were already on their second bottle of wine.

“Did you realise that your cufflinks don’t match?” Stephanie asked, as she pointed to his wrist.

“Yes,” Urs replied, looking at his wrists. “I somehow managed to lose one of the cufflinks that Aimee bought me. But I wanted to wear the one I have so I had to wear an odd one.”

“Oh.” was all Stephanie could say. He still wanted to wear the cufflinks of his dead girlfriend. Was there any hope for her?

“Did you want some more wine?” Urs asked, as he topped up Stephanie‘s wine glass.

“Okay.” Stephanie replied, as Urs gestured to the waiter for another bottle of wine.

Urs was feeling a little tense, not quite sure what Stephanie was expecting from him. He didn’t want to spoil the evening and was desperately trying to relax. He hadn’t been worried about the date until now. He thought it would be fine, dinner with a friend. That’s how Urs has seen it. But now he had seen the way Stephanie was looking at him; the same way that he had probably been looking at Kristina over the dinner table.

The wine had helped them relax and enjoy the evening, talking about work, their careers, and family. Stephanie felt as if Urs was warming to her; but occasionally he would sit staring into space. They had soon finished their meal and Urs paid the bill and they left.

As they stepped outside Urs took hold of Stephanie’s hand and they crossed the road, to a taxi that was already waiting for them. Stephanie looked at their hands, wondering if Urs would stay with her tonight or if she was hoping for too much too soon. Little did she know that Urs wanted another woman on his arm; and the woman he wanted on his arm was the same woman he wanted in his bed. Her name was Kristina.

As Urs walked Stephanie into her apartment, he couldn’t stop thinking of Kristina. Urs helped Stephanie take off her coat and hung it up, still thinking of Kristina. Her blue eyes, her smile, the way her dress clung to her body. He wanted her; mind, body and soul.

“Did you want me to make some coffee?” Stephanie asked, turning to face Urs.

Urs looked at Stephanie. He didn’t speak as he put an arm around her waist and pulled her to him, kissing her forcefully. Stephanie was so taken aback that it was several seconds before she realised what was happening. She kissed him back hungrily, sliding her arms around his neck and pulling him closer.

A few seconds later, Urs unzipped her dress. It fell to the floor and she stepped out of it.

“Where’s the bedroom?” Urs asked.

“This way.” she replied, taking Urs by the hand and leading the way.

That night Urs made love to a woman he did not love and did not want; because his heart belonged to another. He loved her. He loved Kristina.

***** CHAPTER 17 *****

When Urs woke the next morning his head was pounding. He wasn’t much of a drinker so he couldn’t understand why he had drunk so much last night. Surely it wouldn’t have been that hard to stay sober and have an enjoyable evening with Stephanie. As his eyes adjusted to the sunlight shining through the gap in the curtains he looked at the woman sleeping beside him. What was he thinking of last night when he had taken her to bed? Stephanie was a friend. He should’ve gone straight home but when she had asked him if he wanted to come in, he had said yes without hesitation.

Urs carefully got out of bed, trying not to disturb Stephanie, and quietly made his way to the bathroom. Perhaps a shower would clear his head but it wouldn’t change what had happened between him and Stephanie. Urs wasn’t even sure he knew what he wanted to happen between them. They had a good relationship but there was a big difference between being friends and lovers. Yet they had now crossed that line and there was no going back. Urs stepped in to the shower, closed his eyes and pressed his palms against the wall, the warm water trickling down over his back. Again his thoughts turned to Kristina. It would still be night in New York, she would probably be fast asleep. But she would be with David, in his bed. Urs sighed to himself. Why was he falling for a woman who he had only ever seen once? He might never see her again but she was on his mind all the time. After being alone for so long he had found someone who he wanted to be with but she was with someone else. And to make things more complicated for himself he had started something with another woman. Urs didn’t know what was happening to him, his whole character was changing and he wasn’t sure he liked what he saw.

“Do you fancy sharing?” said a woman’s voice.

Urs turned to see Stephanie standing there with the shower door open. He had been deep in thought and hadn’t even heard her come in to the bathroom.

“It’s all yours.” Urs said as stepped out of the shower and grabbed a towel. “I really should get back to my place. I have a few things to sort out.”

“Oh, is it anything important or can it wait?” Stephanie asked, watching Urs as he dried himself off. “It’s just that we have a couple of days off and I thought we could some thing together.”

Urs wrapped the towel around his waist, he picked up a smaller towel and started to dry his hair.

“No, I really need to sort out some paperwork today.” Urs replied. “How about we do something tomorrow?”

“Okay.” Stephanie said, trying not to sound disappointed. She had just spent the night with the man she loved, she wasn’t going to start making demands for his attention.

“I’ll let you have your shower and I’ll say goodbye now.” Urs said as he quickly kissed Stephanie on the cheek. “I’m going to get dressed and go straight home. I need to make a start on things. I‘ll call you later, okay?”

Stephanie watched as Urs turned and left before stepping in to the shower. She started to think about the night she had just spent with Urs. If she was honest with herself she wasn’t expecting it to turn out the way it had. She had been hoping and praying that something would happen, and it did. But she just hoped that it wasn’t a one off, that it did actually mean something to Urs.

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

As soon as Urs had left Stephanie’s apartment he got in to his car and took out his mobile. He flipped it open and started to dial.

“Hello?”

“Marius, it’s Urs.”

“Urs? What time is it?” Marius asked, sleepily.

Urs looked at his watch. “It’s just gone 7am.”

“7am? I didn’t know there was such a thing.” Marius mumbled. “I’ve only ever seen 7pm.”

Urs chuckled to himself. Marius was one of his best friends and had known him since childhood.

“Don’t you believe in ever having a lie in?” Marius asked.

“It’s a waste.” Urs replied. “You spend half your life in bed, you should get up early once in a while.”

“There’s early and then there’s ‘Urs early‘.“ Marius said. “You should try having a lie in, you might enjoy it. But come on, I know you never call this early unless something’s on your mind. So what‘s up?”

“I need to talk.” Urs said, running his fingers through his still damp hair. “Are you free later?”

“Sounds serious.” Marius replied. “But yeah I’m free. Want to meet up for lunch?”

“Sure.” Urs replied. “Do you think you can find your way out of bed for 1 o’clock?”

“I’ll give it a go.” Marius said, laughing. “I’ll see you at Tartine’s.”

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

Urs was sitting at a table outside Tartine’s, reading a newspaper. Tartine’s was a small café by the river which Marius had discovered when looking for some new scenery to paint; he was an artist. Ever since he had found it Urs and Marius came here regularly to eat. It was well hidden in the back streets of Paris and although it wasn’t that well known or easy to find they were always busy.

Urs looked up when someone tapped him on the shoulder. It was Marius.

“You made it then!” Urs said, as he glanced at his watch. “And you’re only five minutes late.”

“Hi, how are you? Yeah I’m fine thanks, good to see you too.” Marius said as he sat down.

“Sorry.” Urs said, folding up the newspaper, with a serious look on his face. “I ordered your usual for you.” Urs added, nodding at the pint of beer on the table.

“Geez you look like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders.” Marius said, noticing the look on his face. “So are you going to tell me what’s wrong?”

“I think I’ve messed up big time.” Urs said, looking at Marius.

“Oh, come on then, spill.” Marius said, leaning back in his chair. He had no idea what Urs could have done that could be so bad, Urs wasn’t the type to make trouble. “It can’t be that bad can it?” Marius added, when Urs didn’t answer.

“I slept with Stephanie.” Urs said, as he took a sip of his beer, avoiding eye contact with Marius.

“You what?” Marius said, almost choking on his beer.

“You heard me?” Urs said, looking at Marius.

“I know what I thought I heard.” Marius said, putting his drink down. “But I can’t believe I heard right. You had sex with her?”

“There’s no need to act so surprised.” Urs said. “I am capable of getting a girlfriend, you know.”

“It’s not the fact that you have a girlfriend, if that’s what she is.” Marius said, shaking his head. “I just can’t believe you slept with her.”

“I know you have never liked her.” Urs said, defensively. “So just say it. Say what you really think.”

“I can’t explain it. There’s just something about her that I don’t like.” Marius replied. “I mean, she’s always acted polite and pleasant towards me but there’s just something fake about her. And heck, she must be at least 10 years older than you. Why don‘t you find yourself a nice young woman? You could do a lot better.”

Urs was silent. He had found himself a nice young woman, but she had found herself a nice young man, and it wasn’t him.

“What aren’t you telling me?” Marius asked, curiously seeing Urs deep in thought.

Urs sighed, as he leant back in his seat and ran his hands through his hair, clasping his hands together behind his head.

“I met someone at the weekend.” Urs replied. “A woman.”

“Who is she?” Marius asked. “Do I know her?”

“No, I don’t think so.” Urs replied. “Her name is Kristina Sanders. She’s in the music industry, some kind of agent.”

“So what’s she got to do with you and Stephanie?” Marius asked. “Don’t tell me you slept with her as well?” he added, laughing.

But Urs wasn’t laughing.

“You did, didn’t you!” Marius said, suddenly noticing the look on Urs’ face.

“No, of course not. What kind of person do you think I am?” Urs said, sharply. “I don’t go around sleeping with women just for the sake of it.”

“I’m sorry Urs.” Marius said apologetically. “But come on, it’s been a year since Aimee and now in the space of a few days you’ve met a woman and slept with Stephanie. It’s a bit sudden isn’t it?”

“Last night wasn’t exactly planned.” Urs said, looking out across the river. “I told Stephanie that I was ready to start dating again and we went out for dinner, but I wasn’t planning on sleeping with her. I came pretty close to cancelling the date all together.”

“So what on earth were you thinking?” Marius asked, leaning his elbows on the table. “If you were having second thoughts about the date, why go to bed with her?”

“I don’t know.” Urs replied, looking down at the floor. “I’m still trying to work that out.”

“Hang on a moment.” Marius said, looking puzzled. “What about this woman you mentioned. Kristina? Where does she come into it? What’s happened with her?”

“Nothing.” Urs said quietly.

“Urs? You said you needed to talk, so talk.” Marius said, resting his hand on Urs arm. “You know you can tell me anything. We’re friends, right?”

Urs nodded and gave a weak smile, before taking a deep breath.

“It was at the Tony Awards on Saturday in New York.” Urs started to say. “I had just taken my glasses off when someone bumped in to me and knocked them out of my hand.”

“Kristina?” Marius interrupted.

Urs nodded. “I wasn’t really paying attention to her, I was just looking to see where my glasses had landed. But then she picked up my glasses and handed them to me and that‘s when I saw her face.”

Urs smiled to himself as he thought of her, the way he had felt when she had looked up at him, the comment she had made about his eyes. She had seen right in to the very heart of him.

Marius saw the smile on Urs’ face. “And?”

“And I fell in love.” Urs murmured.

Marius looked at Urs with raised eyebrows.

“You fell in love?” Marius said, stunned. “Just like that, one look and you fell in love.”

Urs looked at Marius and nodded. “You should see her Marius. She’s beautiful; long blonde hair, stunning blue eyes and the most amazing smile. I found it so easy to talk to her. The way she made me feel, I‘ve never felt like that about anyone.”

“Not even Aimee?” Marius asked.

Urs didn’t answer. Marius didn’t ask again.

“So when are you seeing her next?” Marius asked.

“I don’t know.” Urs said. “She lives in New York.”

“So it would be a long distance relationship then?” Marius said.

“She has a boyfriend.” Urs replied.

“Oh great.” Marius said. “You sure make life interesting for yourself, don’t you!”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Urs snapped.

“You fall in love with a woman who has a boyfriend and she doesn’t even live in the same country and you sleep with your best friend.” Marius replied. “Come on Urs. You’ve got to sort yourself out. You can’t be in love with a woman that you’ve only just met! You’re confused, you don’t know what you want.”

“I’m not confused.” Urs said, getting annoyed. “I know what I want. I want Krissy. I love her. But I just don’t know what to do about it or how I’m even going to tell her.”

“You don’t say or do anything, Urs.” Marius said, firmly. “Even if you did see her again you can’t go around telling complete strangers you love them. Besides, she has a boyfriend. Do you really think she’s going to leave him for you?”

Urs got up from his seat. “I have to go.”

“Urs, you said you wanted to talk.” Marius said, getting to his feet. “I want to help you. We have to sort this out.”

“I’ve got things to do.” Urs replied.

“Urs, what are you going to do about Stephanie?” Marius asked. “If you think you’re in love with this other woman you can’t play around with Stephanie’s feelings.”

“I know.” Urs replied, putting his jacket on. “I’ll talk to her.”

“When?” Marius asked.

“Look I’ll tell her okay.” Urs snapped again. “I’ll call you.”

Marius sat back down in his seat and watched Urs walk away. He wished he could help his friend out of this mess, but only Urs could decide how he felt about Stephanie and Kristina and what to do next.

Urs left Marius sitting alone at the table. He felt guilty leaving him like that, but he didn’t want to listen to anymore of what he had to say. Urs knew he loved Kristina and he knew that he had to tell Stephanie last night was a mistake. Yet he had no idea of how to tell her and he had no idea of how to find Kristina. He had to tell her how he felt about her.

***** CHAPTER 18 *****

“Do you think we should get up?” Abigail asked, as she laid her head on Carlos’ chest. “It’s almost lunch time.”

Carlos looked across at the clock. “Let’s stay here for a little longer, then I’ll go and make us something to eat. Is there anything you wanted to do today?”

“I fancy trying out that pool.” Abigail replied. “I can’t remember the last time I went swimming.”

“Have you got a bathing suit?” Carlos asked.

“I don’t know.” she replied. “I just put everything I had in to a suitcase, I can‘t remember what I packed. But if not then I guess I could always improvise.”

“Or you could wear nothing at all.” Carlos said, wiggling his eyebrows.

Abigail didn’t say anything as she looked at Carlos, blushing.

“What?” Carlos asked innocently. “There’s nothing I have not seen before.”

“That may be true, but what if someone see’s me?” Abigail asked, not entirely convinced it was a good idea.

“There’s no one around here for miles.” Carlos replied. “That’s why I chose it. It’s nice and peaceful. I think secluded is the word the real estate agent used.”

“How about you go and make us some lunch and I’ll see if I have a bathing suit.” Abigail said getting out of bed. “Then I’ll think about what I’m going to wear, if anything.” she added, winking at him. Carlos got up and put a robe on, thinking to himself; please tell me she didn’t pack a bathing suit.

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

“Who was that on the phone?” David asked, as he walked in to the kitchen.

“It was Dr Slater’s surgery.” Kristina replied, looking toward David. “He’s got my test results back and wants to see me.”

“That was quick.” David said, sitting next to her. “When’s your appointment?”

“Four o’clock this afternoon.” she replied. “Why can’t he tell me over the phone? Why do I have to go there?”

“Because Dr Slater does things by the book, he probably wants to see you again, just make sure everything’s alright.” David said, kneeling in front of her. “He probably rushed the tests through so you wouldn’t be worrying.”

Kristina smiled weakly, but no matter how hard David tried to reassure her that everything was fine, she was still worrying.

“Come on.” David said, standing up and taking her hand. “Let’s go for a walk and get some fresh air.”

“But I have work to do.” Kristina replied. “I’m already running behind because of the Doctors yesterday and then there’s the appointment this afternoon.”

“Krissy, work can wait.” David said, leading her in to the hallway and handing her coat to her. “Half an hour won’t hurt.”

Kristina reluctantly put on her coat, and her and David left the apartment.

****************************************
Stephanie was sitting in her apartment, surfing through the TV channels but not really paying much attention to it. She had been thinking about what to say to Urs. She wanted to talk about what had happened last night but was scared what he might say. Perhaps he would blame the drink, or feel that the had rushed things and that it couldn’t happen again. She had been waiting for Urs to call her and so she had stayed in all day. But he hadn’t phoned and Stephanie didn’t want to start pestering him with phone calls so she had sat patiently and waited.

*****************************************
Kristina couldn’t believe it. She hadn’t been to the doctors in months, and now in the space of two days she had been there twice. She could feel her breathing getting faster and was starting to feel hot and flushed. Kristina really did hate the doctors and now she was starting to panic, worrying about what Doctor Slater would say. David could see Kristina was getting uncomfortable and tried to reassure her, but he knew that she wouldn’t be happy until she was outside.

Luckily for Kristina she didn’t have to wait long for Dr Slater to call her name.

“Do you want me to come with you this time?” David asked, getting up from his seat.

Kristina nodded and smiled. “Please. I’m scared.”

“Come on.” David said, taking her hand. “It’ll be fine, you’re worrying about nothing.”

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

Half an hour later David and Kristina said goodbye to Dr Slater and made their way out of the building.

“Are you ok?” David asked, quietly as he put an arm around her. “You haven’t said much.”

Kristina shook her head. “I think I need to sit down again.”

David took her hand and walked over to low wall outside the building. “It‘s probably shock, that‘s all.”

“Are you serious? I’m pregnant, David.” Kristina exclaimed. “How did that happen?”

“Well I could show you.” David said, smirking. “But we’d have to go somewhere more private.”

Kristina slapped him on the arm. “I think you’ve already shown me.” Kristina said, a faint smile appearing on her face. “That’s why we’re here now.”

“So are you happy?” he asked, putting his arm around her. “I realise it wasn’t planned, but you do want this baby, don’t you?”

Kristina looked up at David with a huge smile on her face. “I want this baby more than anything.”

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

It was 9 o’clock in the evening in Paris and Urs was sitting down listening to music. He found it always helped him relax or get things straight in his head when something was on his mind. And Urs certainly had a lot on his mind at the moment.

He still hadn’t spoken to Stephanie since he had left her apartment earlier that morning. He didn’t know what to say to her.

Urs’ thoughts were interrupted when the doorbell went. Urs wasn’t going to bother answering as he wasn’t in the mood for company. But who ever it was, they were persistent and kept ringing the bell. Urs dragged himself up out of his seat and went to answer the door. As soon as he opened it Marius pushed his way past Urs, his arms loaded with pizza, drink and DVD’s.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Urs asked, closing the door behind him.

“Don’t you ever say hello to anyone these days?” Marius asked, unloading everything on to the table. “A hello, or how are you, might be nice once in awhile.”

“Hello, how are you?” Urs said. “Now tell me, what do you think you’re doing? What’s all this in aid of?”

Marius went to a cupboard and took out two glasses. “What does it look like? If the women can do it I don’t see why we can’t.”

“Do what?” Urs asked, totally confused by what Marius had just said. “And what women?”

“I’m talking about women in general, Urs.” Marius replied. “They have a girls night in, so we’re having a boys night in.”

“And why do we need a boys night in?” Urs asked, as he opened one of the pizza boxes.

Marius opened another of the pizza boxes and took a slice.

“Because you need it. You need to sort things out with Kristina and Stephanie once and for all. You can‘t sit here on your own trying to decide what to do. You need a voice of reason and we didn‘t get to finish our chat earlier.”

Urs sat down at the kitchen table. “I’m sorry about lunch but you were starting to annoy me.”

“That’s okay.” Marius said, sitting opposite him. “No one likes being told what to do or how they should feel. So have you thought anymore about what I said?”

“Which bit?” Urs asked, before biting in to a slice of pizza.

“The bit about not saying anything to Kristina.” Marius replied. “You can’t tell her how you feel and potentially ruin a perfectly good relationship between her and her boyfriend. If she has any feelings for you, which is highly unlikely, then she would finish with him. But until then just leave it alone.”

“Hang on, why is it ‘highly unlikely’ that she will have any feelings for me?” Urs asked, already not liking where this conversation was going. “I know I’m not exactly God’s gift to women, unlike you, but is it so inconceivable to think a woman might actually be interested in me?"

“I didn’t mean it like that and you know it.” Marius said, picking up the DVD’s. “You say you fell in love with her after just one look. But how long did it take you to realise that?”

Urs thought about it for a few minutes, while Marius has disappeared in to the front room with the DVD’s. Urs couldn’t pin point the moment when he knew he loved her, he just did. When he first saw her he couldn’t deny the fact that he was attracted to her. But he wouldn’t let himself feel anything else because he wanted to keep his promise to Aimee, to always be true. But as Urs found himself thinking about her more and more he couldn’t help but feel something for her.

“You’re still thinking then?” Marius asked, as he walked back in to the kitchen. “If it’s taking you this long to think about it, I would hardly call it love at first sight.”

“I don’t know when it was.” Urs replied. “I think I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her, but I just tried to deny it because of Aimee.”

“Can I ask you something?” Marius said, sitting down again. “Tell me if I’m overstepping the mark here.”

“Go on.” Urs said, leaning back in his chair.

“Why did you sleep with Stephanie? What I mean is…” Marius thought for a few seconds, getting the words straight in his head. “I mean, you say you like Stephanie, but you love Kristina. So was it for the sex? I know it‘s been a while. Or was it just out of loneliness? What?”

“You want the honest answer?” Urs said, looking down.

“Ever heard the saying honesty is the best policy.” Marius replied. “If not with me, then at least with yourself.”

“I’d been thinking about Kristina the whole time I was out with Stephanie.” Urs said in a low voice. “I know I can’t blame the drink for what I did. I knew exactly what I was doing.”

“And what was that?” Marius asked.

“I let my feelings for Kristina take over and that’s why I made love to Stephanie.” Urs replied. “I know it was wrong and believe me I feel terrible about it. But I couldn’t stop myself.”

“Have you spoken to Stephanie yet?” Marius asked. Urs shook his head. “What are you going to say to her?”

“I’ve absolutely no idea.” Urs replied, shrugging his shoulders. “What do I say to her? Sorry about last night, but it wasn’t really you I was making love to, I was thinking about another woman the whole time? Do you think we can try it again?”

“I’m not saying you tell her that.” Marius said, getting up from his seat. “But you do need to be honest with her. Come on, let's go watch these movies, I only rented them for the one night."

Urs picked up the pizza's and followed Marius in to the front room.

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

“Next time I‘m choosing the movies.” Urs said, as he picked up the remote control and switched the TV off. “Couldn‘t you get anything better than chick flicks?”

“I chose those films for a reason, Urs!” Marius replied, leaning forward in the chair. “But obviously it was a waste of time.”

“What are you talking about?” Urs asked, looking puzzled.

“The chick flicks, Sleepless in Seattle, You‘ve Got Mail, While You Were Sleeping.” Marius replied. “Don’t you get it? The whole love at first sight and happy endings is a myth. You don’t get that in real life. You only ever get a happy ending in chick flicks and fairytales. I don’t think you love Kristina, Urs. I think it’s just some kind of fascination that you have with her. You spent a few hours with her, you hardly know her. How can you call it love?”

Urs sat staring at the blank TV screen, thinking about what Marius had just said. He was sure it was love, but knew Marius would call him a fool. Urs was going to prove it to him, show him that it was love and that he and Kristina were meant to be.

***** CHAPTER 19 *****

Stephanie was in a good mood; she had just had a phone call from Urs. He wanted to come over and see her and then maybe go for lunch. Stephanie was sure that things would be fine between her and Urs. Admittedly they had rushed things but surely he wouldn’t have moved so fast if he didn’t feel something for her. Stephanie had decided to risk it and call David; even if it meant Urs and Kristina crossing paths again. She needed to let David know that she had managed to get him an audition for a part in one of the shows she was in. Stephanie had been on the phone the previous day to Luke, the producer who was a good friend of hers; he was willing to see David. Stephanie sat down at her desk and opened her diary, looking for David’s telephone number.

“Hello?”

“David, it’s Stephanie.”

“Hi Stephanie. How are you? How was the flight back to Paris?”

“I’m fine thanks, David.” Stephanie replied. “And the flight wasn’t too bad. I was just calling to let you know that if you’re still interested, you’ve got yourself an audition in the new show.”

“If I’m still interested?” David said, excitedly. “Absolutely! Just tell me when and where and I’ll be there!”

“Well I haven’t got all the details yet.” Stephanie replied. “I have to call Luke again and I’ll let you know.”

“Well let me give you Krissy’s work number, it’s probably easier to contact her.” David said. “And she’s more organised than me.”

“Okay, sure.” Stephanie replied, reluctantly. She hardly knew the woman but didn’t particularly want to speak to Kristina. She couldn’t help feeling some animosity towards her. Stephanie knew that Urs had found Kristina attractive but here was a tiny voice inside her head, also telling her that Kristina was attracted to Urs. She couldn’t explain it, but she felt there was some kind of connection between them when they had looked at each other.

“How is Kristina?” Stephanie asked, trying to make conversation.

“She’s fine, in fact, she’s more than fine.” David said, his huge smile evident down the phone. “I probably shouldn’t say anything just yet but yesterday we found out that Krissy’s pregnant.”

Any worries that Stephanie had about Urs and Kristina instantly disappeared as soon as she realised what David had just said. “That’s brilliant news, David. Congratulations, I’m really happy for you both. Give my best wishes to Kristina for me.”

“Thanks Stephanie.” David replied. “I’ll be sure to tell her.”

“Okay, well I should be going.” Stephanie said, checking her watch. Urs was due to arrive at any minute. “I’ll call as soon as I have more details.”

Stephanie and David said goodbye and no sooner had Stephanie put the phone down than there was a knock at the door. It was Urs.

“I’ve just been speaking to David.” Stephanie said, closing the door after him.

“David?” Urs asked.

“From the Tony Awards at the weekend.” Stephanie replied. “Remember I was going to see about getting him an audition for the show?”

“Oh yes.” Urs replied. “I know who you mean. So, did you?”

“Yes.” Stephanie said as she put her coat on. “He sounded pretty excited. That’s the second piece of good news he’s had this week.”

“Oh? What was the first?” Urs asked, trying to sound interested. As much as he liked David, he really wasn’t interested in what was happening in his life.

“He found out yesterday that he’s going to be a dad.” Stephanie replied, casually glancing at Urs to see his reaction. “Kristina is pregnant.”

There was no reaction from Urs, his face expressionless.

“I just need to get my mobile.” Stephanie said, after searching through her bag. “I think I’ve left it in my room.”

As Stephanie disappeared in to her room, Urs walked over to the window; hands in his pockets and his eyes glazed over. This was last thing he had expected to hear, Kristina being pregnant. How could he ever tell her loved her? He couldn‘t. David and Kristina might not be married, but a baby put a whole different light on the situation. There was no way he could tell her how he felt about her, not now.

“Are you okay?”

Urs turned to see Stephanie. He nodded. “I’m fine.”

Stephanie wasn’t convinced. “Are you having regrets about the other night?” she asked, warily.

Urs walked away from the window and sat down. This was the moment he had been dreading. Urs knew he had to talk to Stephanie about the night they spent together. He didn’t want to ruin their friendship but he had to get things straight between them.

“No regrets.” Urs lied. “But maybe I took things a little too fast. I know it was all my doing so please, don‘t think it‘s your fault.”

Stephanie sat down next to Urs. “So what does that mean? For us I mean.”

Urs hesitated. He didn’t know what to tell her or say to her without hurting her.

“I don’t think it can happen again, Stephanie.” Urs replied, looking at her. “I’m sorry.”

“But it was only one date, Urs.” Stephanie said, quietly. “We can take things as slow as you like. I’m not going to rush you.”

He could lie and carry on from where they left off the other night, but Urs would only be doing it to stop from hurting her now. Urs would only be making things worse; he shook his head.

“I’m sorry, Stephanie.” Urs said, taking her hand in his. “I’m just not ready.”

Stephanie smiled, but Urs noticed tears in her eyes. He didn’t know what to say. He doubted if things would ever be the same between them again.

“Do you mind if we cancel lunch?” Stephanie asked, discreetly wiping her eyes.

“Of course not.” Urs replied. “I’m really sorry Stephanie.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Stephanie said, standing up. “Thank you for being honest with me.”

Urs kissed Stephanie goodbye and headed back to his apartment. He felt awful. He could only guess at how she might be feeling right now, although he had some idea. They were both in love with someone who was never likely to feel the same way in return.

******************************************************
Kristina was still getting used to the fact that she was pregnant. She was going to be a mother and David was going to be a father. It just didn’t seem possible. She was convinced she wasn’t pregnant so when they had seen Doctor Slater yesterday and he had confirmed she was pregnant, she was stunned. Kristina had asked him if he was sure as she was still having regular periods. But Doctor Slater had told it her although it was rare for that to happen while pregnant, it wasn’t unheard of.

Earlier that morning David had insisted they go straight to the shopping mall and buy things for the baby. But Kristina had thought maybe it was too soon; she didn’t want to tempt fate. Yet David had got his way and they now had baby grows in all sizes, in all colours and a huge 6ft bear that David had made a bee-line for as soon as they entered the store.

Kristina had just sat down at her desk when the phone rang.

“Are you going to get that or shall I?” David shouted from the other room.

“I will.” Kristina replied, just before picking up the phone.

Several minutes later, David walked in to the office just as Kristina was putting the phone down. “Who was it?” he asked.

“Dr Slater.” she replied quietly. “He’s asked if we can go back and see him.”

“When?” David asked, walking towards her. “And what for?”

“He didn’t say.” Kristina said, looking at David. “But he said he needs to speak with us as soon as possible, so as soon as we‘re ready just drop by and he‘ll see us. Something‘s wrong with the baby, isn‘t it.”

“Krissy, why do you always assume the worst?” David asked, kneeling in front of her.

“What else could it be?” she asked.

David thought about it for a moment; Kristina was right. If it was good news surely it could wait until tomorrow. But if it was bad news, maybe that’s why he needed to see them so urgently. David tried to sound optimistic, not wanting to worry Kristina more than she already was.

“Don’t think like that, Krissy.” David said, resting his hands on her knees. “Look what happened last time you thought it was bad news. You found out you were 10 weeks pregnant! Who knows, maybe he’s going to tell us we’re having twins.”

“You mean I would have to put up with three kids in the house?” Kristina said jokingly, feeling happier as she thought about the baby. “Besides, I think it‘s a bit soon to tell if it’s twins or not, David.”

“Just a thought.” David said, standing up. “So did you want you want to go and see him now? Find out what he has to say.”

Kristina nodded. “Let’s go and get this over and done with.”

Kristina and David made their way downstairs to the car in silence. Both of them were worried about what Doctor Slater needed to see them about. David was aware of Kristina’s concerns, but Kristina wasn’t aware that David was also worried, more than he let on.

Doctor Slater was true to his word. As soon David and Kristina had arrived, the receptionist had told him they were waiting and were shown into his office straight away.

“Kristina, David, I’m sorry to have to ask you here again so soon.” Doctor Slater said, shaking their hands. “Please, take a seat.”

An anxious Kristina and David sat down; neither of them prepared for the news that awaited them.

***** CHAPTER 20 *****

“This isn’t real.” Kristina quietly cried, shaking her head. “This can’t be happening.”

David quickly got up from his seat, and put his arms around Kristina. “Shhhh, it will be okay. We’ll get through this, you’ll see.”

“How? Tell me how.” Kristina asked, as David tried to comfort her.

David looked at Dr Slater, tears in his eyes; unsure of what to say to Kristina.

“Kristina, David’s right.” Dr Slater said, getting up from his seat and kneeling beside her. “I know this is a lot to take in right now, but there are things that can be done.”

“But why me?” she asked, looking at Dr Slater, tears running down her face.

Dr Slater took her hand in his. “I know it might seem unfair Kristina, but we don’t always know why. There could be a number of reasons. Until we do more tests we won’t know for sure.”

Kristina couldn’t take it all in. Three days ago it was just her and David. Two days ago it was her, David and a baby. But today, today was the worst day of her life and things were only going to get worse.

Kristina looked at David. “I want to go home.”

David then looked at Dr Slater again; he nodded. “We need to talk about your options, but it can wait until tomorrow. I‘ll call you.”

David stood up and helped Kristina to her feet. “Come on Krissy.” he whispered. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to be here every step of the way.”

Dr Slater watched as the young couple left his office. He hoped that David meant every word he said, because the next few months were going to be some of the toughest they had ever known.

************
“Krissy?”

“Huh? What?” Kristina asked, looking up from her desk. She had been trying to keep busy but she was finding it hard to concentrate.

“I said you should rest.” David said, kneeling down beside her. “You know what Dr Slater said.”

“I can’t, not yet.” Kristina said, looking back down at her desk. “I’ve got to get this paperwork completed. It needs to be in the post today and then I’ve got to pack.”

“Pack?” David said, sounding shocked. “What for?”

“I have to go to Paris, remember?” Kristina replied. “I’ve got to meet a new client.”

“But I thought you were going to cancel all your meetings.” David said, standing up. “You’re not going to be able to work soon. Do you think it’s wise to take on more clients?”

“Until we know what we’re dealing with I can’t let this stop me David.” Kristina replied, shaking her head.

“We know what we‘re dealing with Krissy.” David said quietly. “You can’t ignore it.”

“I’m not ignoring it.” Kristina snapped. “I just don’t see what good it will do talking about it. It won’t make me better!”

“I want you to call Dr Slater before you go.” David said, sitting down opposite her. “He might tell you it’s not a good idea.”

“Please don’t do this David.” Kristina said quietly. “I‘m dealing with this my way, okay?”

“But I’m going to be worried about you.” David said, putting his hand out to Kristina. “Please don‘t go.”

Kristina took his hand. “You’re worrying about nothing, David. I‘ll be fine.”

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

Kristina had phoned Dr Slater, after David had insisted that she call him before going to Paris. He didn’t want her to go to, but once Kristina had set her mind on something there was no changing it. Dr Slater had asked them both to come and see him again before she left; they hadn’t long been back from seeing Dr Slater. He wasn’t too happy her with her travelling but he couldn’t talk her out of it. He had made another appointment for her to have more tests in two days time.

Kristina had been sitting looking at the phone for the last twenty minutes. She had to phone her sister and tell her, but she didn’t know where to start.

“Do you want me to do it?” David asked, when he noticed Kristina had been staring at the phone.

Kristina shook her head. “No. I’ll do it.” she said quietly, as she picked up the phone and dialled Abigail’s number.

When Abigail had answered the phone Kristina was surprised at the change in her sisters voice. She had only been in Spain a few days but it was obvious she was happy with Carlos; and now Kristina had to tell her the news.

“What’s up sis?” Abigail said, in a cheerful voice.

“Abigail, I have something to tell you.” Kristina replied.

“Oh my God you’re pregnant aren’t you!” Abigail said excitedly.

“What makes you think that?” Kristina asked, stunned that her sister would think that.

“I don’t know.” Abigail replied. “I guess it just seemed like the obvious thing. So you’re not pregnant then?”

“No.” Kristina said quietly. “No, I thought I was but… but I’m not pregnant. I didn’t tell you but I went to the doctors about some bad headaches. Somehow the lab got my test results mixed up. So they told me I was pregnant but then yesterday…” Kristina paused as she took a deep breath, forcing herself not to cry.

“Kristina?” Abigail said, anxiously. “What’s wrong? You’re starting to worry me.”

“I’m ill, Abigail.” Kristina replied.

There was several seconds of silence before Abigail asked “How ill?”

“I have something wrong with my kidneys.” Kristina replied, her voice starting to waver. “I’ve got to go for more tests in a couple of days.”

Abigail was beginning to wish she had gone back to New York; she needed to be there for her sister.

“This is serious isn’t it?” Abigail said in a low voice.

“Yes.” Kristina replied, catching her breath. “I can go on dialysis but it depends on how far the disease is gone. If Dr Slater is right, I’ll need to go on a waiting list for a transplant and just hope that I can find a donor in time. That’s why I need to ask you something, Abigail.”

“You can ask me anything.” Abigail replied.

“Will you come to New York and be tested to see if you can be a match for a kidney donor?” Kristina said quickly.

Abigail didn’t hesitate in answering. “You’re my sister, Kristina. Do you really need to ask me? Of course I’ll come. When do you need me there?”

“Friday.” Kristina replied. “Will that be a problem?”

“Don’t you worry about that, I’ll be there.” Abigail said tearfully.

The two sisters said goodbye. Carlos put his arms around Abigail as she put the phone down.

“What’s wrong Abby?” he asked as she turned around to face him. “You’re crying.” he said, taking a handkerchief out of his pocket and carefully wiping her tears away.

“It’s Kristina.” Abigail replied. “She’s sick. I need to go to New York. We have to be there on Friday.”

“What’s wrong with her?” Carlos asked, distressed at seeing Abigail so upset.

“Something to do with her kidneys, I don’t know all the details.” Abigail replied. “But I need to see if I can be a donor for her.”

Carlos wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to him. “I’ll call the airport and make all the arrangements. Are you sure you want to do this?”

“Of course, she’s my sister.” Abigail said looking up at Carlos. “I know she would do it for me.”

Abigail rested her head against his chest, and closed her eyes. She wished she could leave for New York right now, Friday seemed so far away.

***** CHAPTER 21 *****

Kristina was finishing the last of her paperwork before she left for Paris that afternoon. David had tried to talk her out of it, but she had refused to listen. The doctors appointment wasn‘t for another two days so she was going to carry on as normal. David had said she was trying to ignore it, deny there was anything wrong. Kristina explained that she‘d gone on this long not knowing what was wrong with her so why would a couple more days make any difference. David had given up trying to talk sense in to her and gone out for a walk.

Kristina was looking for Stephanie’s phone number, she wanted to get all the details of the new show and sort everything out for David. She did want him having to worry about any thing. She smiled to herself, knowing how disorganised he was. She didn’t mean to worry him but she had to go to Paris, maybe a change of scenery would help her get things straight in her head. To be honest she was looking forward to some time to herself. Kristina found Stephanie’s number and started to dial.

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

Urs was in Stephanie’s apartment. Things were a little odd between them but they had still managed to work together and remain friends after yesterdays conversation. Stephanie had invited Urs back for lunch and Urs felt obliged to accept. Stephanie then realised she had hardly anything in the fridge and so she had quickly gone to a small store at the end of the road. She had only been gone ten minutes when a mobile started to ring. Urs had been sitting down reading a newspaper at the time. He looked at his mobile thinking it was his, but he soon realised it was Stephanie’s. He could see it flashing on the desk but didn’t know if he should answer it. Urs got up and walked across to the desk, he looked at the caller id on the screen; Kristina Sanders.

Urs’ heart skipped a beat the moment he saw her name. Before he realised what he had done he had picked up the phone and answered it.

“Hello.”

“Oh, I’m sorry I think I’ve got the wrong number.” Kristina said, hearing a man’s voice.

“Did you want Stephanie?” asked the man.

“Yes.” Kristina replied. “Is she there?”

“She’s just popped out for a moment. Can I take a message?” he asked.

“It’s about work, I’m calling about an audition that she’s arranged for a David Miller.”

“Okay, who shall I say called?” asked the male voice.

“Kristina.” she replied. “Kristina Sanders.”

“Krissy?” the mans’ voice said, curiously. Urs tried to sound surprised. Obviously he knew it was her all along, but he didn’t want Kristina to know.

“I’m sorry?” Kristina said. “Do I know you?” Kristina was a little wary as to who this man was. The only person that called her Krissy was David.

“You’ve forgotten me already?” he replied. “It’s Urs.”

Kristina felt butterflies in her tummy. How could she not recognise his voice, it was so obvious that it was him.

“Urs! How are you?” Kristina asked.

“I’m doing very well thank you.” Urs replied. “I’m sorry we didn’t get to say goodbye on Saturday but Stephanie was tired and I wanted to go back to the hotel. It was all a bit sudden.

“That’s alright, Urs you don’t have to apologise. But I think I have something of yours.” Kristina said, sounding a little embarrassed. “Have you lost a cufflink? I found it on the floor close to where you were sitting on Saturday night. I was going to phone the venue and tell them but I’ve been so busy.”

“You have? You don’t know how relieved I am to hear you say that.” Urs said, ecstatically. “I thought I’d lost it for good. It was a present from my girlfriend.”

“Did you want me to post it you?” Kristina asked.

“No, no don’t do that.” Urs said quickly. “Would it be alright if you held on to it for the moment? Now that I‘ve found it I don’t really want to lose it in the post.”

“Well actually, I’m flying to Paris this afternoon to meet a client.” Kristina said. “So I could always meet you somewhere.”

Urs couldn’t believe his ears, Kristina was going to be in Paris; today. He could see her again in just a few hours, but what was he thinking, she was pregnant. Everything had changed since yesterday. He didn’t care, he needed to see her again.

“Urs? Are you still there?”

“I’m sorry Krissy.” Urs said. “I was just thinking. If you’re flying out this afternoon, you won’t arrive until this evening so I assume your meeting is sometime tomorrow?”

“Yes it is." Kristina replied.

“Well how about I meet you at the airport?” Urs asked. “I could always drop you off at your hotel. Or even better why don’t you come and stay with me?”

“Thank you Urs, but I couldn’t do that.” Kristina replied. “I wouldn‘t want to impose on you.” Kristina felt a little nervous at the thought of staying over night with Urs. It wasn‘t that she didn‘t know him very well, or didn‘t trust him; strangely enough she trusted him completely. But after the effect he had on her at the weekend she didn‘t want to get in to that embarrassing situation again.

“Don’t be silly.” Urs said. “I wouldn’t have offered if I didn’t mean it. So how about it? Let me know your flight number and I‘ll meet you at the airport. You can stay overnight, it seems pointless in you having to pay for a hotel. And I can‘t let a pregnant woman traipse all around Paris. By the way, congratulations!”

Kristina was jolted back to reality as soon as Urs mentioned her now non-existent pregnancy. In those few minutes she had forgotten about the test results and her illness.

“Krissy?”

“Sorry Urs.” Kristina replied. “I was miles away. But how did you know I was pregnant?”

“Stephanie called David about the audition and he told her.” Urs replied. “So, is it all arranged? I’ll collect you from the airport, you’ll stay with me tonight and you can cancel your hotel reservation.”

“As long as you’re sure.” Kristina replied.

“Absolutely.” Urs said with a smile on his face. “It will be great to see you again.”

“And you too.” Kristina replied. It was true, for some reason she was looking forward to seeing him again.

As soon as Urs had got Kristina’s flight details they said goodbye. Urs then put Stephanie’s mobile back on the table and took out his own mobile.

“Marius.”

“Urs.”

“What are you doing later on?” Urs asked.

“Nothing, why?” Marius replied.

“She’s coming here, she’s coming to Paris. I’m picking her up at the airport later on, her flight gets in at 6 o’clock. You’ve got to come with me, I want you to meet her.”

“Urs slow down.” Marius interrupted. “Who are you talking about?”

“Krissy. She’s coming to Paris.” Urs said, excitedly. “She’ll be here in a few hours. I want you to meet her.”

“Why’s she coming to Paris?” Marius asked. “And how did you find her?”

“She called Stephanie’s mobile about some audition for a show and I answered it. And she has my lost cufflink that I told you about.” Urs replied. “But that’s not important, will you come with me to the airport?”

“Is she coming alone or will she be with her boyfriend?” Marius asked, worried about what Urs was getting himself into.

Urs hadn’t even thought about that, but when he had asked Kristina to stay she hadn’t mentioned David. “Alone. I think.” Urs replied. “But don’t worry I‘m not going to do anything stupid. She and David are expecting a baby, I wouldn’t dream of messing things up.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” Marius said, sighing. “But are you sure this is a good idea?”

“What do you mean?” Urs asked.

“Urs, I don’t see how meeting her again is going to help things.” Marius replied.

“Just say you’ll come to the airport with me.” Urs said. “Then you‘ll see.”

“See what?” Marius asked, sounding puzzled.

“You’ll see what I see and why I feel the way I do.” Urs replied.

“Urs, we talked about this the other night.” Marius said, who was beginning to sound annoyed with his friend. “You don’t love her. You just think you do.”

“I know what I’m doing Marius.” Urs said firmly. “Will you come with me or not?”

Marius still wasn‘t convinced this was a good idea, but if Urs insisted on seeing Kristina again, he wanted to be there to make sure Urs didn‘t make a fool of himself.

“Okay, what time?”

***** CHAPTER 22 *****

Just as Urs put his mobile away, Stephanie opened the door and walked back in to the apartment.

“Sorry I took so long.” Stephanie said as she closed the door. “But I got talking to someone.”

“That’s alright.” Urs said, following Stephanie in to the kitchen. “I hope it was okay but your mobile was ringing and I answered it.”

“Who was it?” Stephanie said, as she started to unpack the shopping.

“Kristina.” Urs said casually.

Stephanie stopped what she was doing for a second. “How is she? How‘s the pregnancy treating her?”

“She seems fine.” Urs replied, smiling. “She was asking about some details for an audition for David.”

Stephanie continued to unpack. Stephanie couldn’t help but ask about the pregnancy. Urs had told her he wasn’t ready for a relationship but she knew Urs liked Kristina; it was the only way she knew of getting back at him. But it didn’t seem to bother him.

“I’ll give her a call back after we’ve eaten.” Stephanie replied. “Do you think you could set the table for me? Lunch won’t be long.”

Stephanie watched as Urs left the kitchen. Stephanie’s feeling of jealousy and animosity towards Kristina was starting to show itself again. Stephanie knew she was jealous of Kristina, she wasn’t denying it, but at the moment she was more angry with Urs for answering her mobile. There was no reason for him to answer it, he could have just let it ring. But she guessed Urs had seen Kristina’s name on the display and that’s why he had answered it. Stephanie tried to forget about it as she started on lunch.

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

Kristina’s plane had landed safely at Charles de Gaulle Airport and she had just passed through customs. As she walked through the double doors, her eyes scanned the crowd looking for Urs. Kristina had been looking forward to seeing him again. She couldn’t explain how she felt about him, there was just something about his presence that made her feel alive. Kristina surprised herself when she had suggested meeting Urs; she was even more surprised when she had agreed to stay with him. Kristina had told David about Urs’ offer and he seemed fine with the idea, happy that she would be with someone should anything happen.

Urs couldn’t wait to see Kristina. He knew she was still with David but he was just looking forward to seeing her again; seeing her smile, hearing her voice, her laugh and just to be near her. He checked his watch once again and looked up at the arrivals board. Kristina’s plane had landed on time. Marius and Urs made their way to the arrivals lounge. Urs kept checking his watch, time seemed to pass so slowly. Urs stood waiting for what seemed like an eternity, his eyes darting back and forth over the people passing him by. He didn’t want to miss her, but the passengers seemed to be getting less and less. Urs was beginning to think she wasn’t coming, but then he saw her. She looked just how he remembered; beautiful.

Kristina spotted Urs in the crowd. He put his hand up to acknowledge her and smiled. He gestured for her to make her way to the end of the aisle. Both of them unknowingly started to walk a little faster, eager to see each other. As the two of them got to the end of the aisle and the crowd thinned out, they finally came face to face.

As Kristina looked in to Urs’ eyes, she felt that deep connection again; she knew he felt it too and it was unnerving. She could feel the butterflies in her stomach and was beginning to think that maybe meeting Urs wasn’t one of her best ideas.

Urs stood looking at Kristina and he couldn’t take his eyes off her. It was just like the night they first met, her eyes seeing right in to the heart of him. He was sure she could feel it, there was something between them.

Marius could see why Urs was attracted to Kristina. She was tall, slim, and had deep blue eyes and long blonde hair which was pulled back in a ponytail, with a few loose strands framing her face. Marius had to agree with Urs, she did look amazing but he couldn’t understand why Urs was so intent on being with her when he hardly knew her. Marius had stood in silence watching Kristina and Urs. They still hadn’t spoken a single word to each other. They simply stood there, smiling at one another. Marius had been waiting for Urs to introduce him but the two seemed oblivious to him.

“Are you going to introduce us?” Marius asked, placing a hand on Urs’ shoulder.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, turning to face him, suddenly remembering Marius was there. “Krissy I’d like you to meet a great friend of mine, Marius Ackerman. Marius, this is Krissy Sanders.” Urs said, as he turned back to face Kristina, smiling at her.

“It’s nice to meet you Marius.” Kristina said, holding her hand out to him. Urs stood watching Kristina. He felt happy, almost proud to be seen with her, to know her.

“It’s nice to meet you too.” Marius replied, taking her hand and leaning in to kiss her on the cheek. “I guess you must be tired from travelling.” he said, looking at Urs who was still watching Kristina.

“A little bit.” Kristina replied. “But nothing a goods nights sleep won’t cure.”

“It really is good to see you again.” Urs said, as he too leaned in and kissed Kristina on the cheek. “And I mean that.” he added with a whisper.

Kristina could feel herself blushing. “It’s good to see you too, Urs.”

“Here let me take those.” Urs said, taking her bag and suitcase from her. “You shouldn’t be carrying them in your condition. David must be pleased about being a father.”

“Yes, yes he is.” Kristina said frowning, as she followed Urs out to the car park. Urs didn’t notice the look on Kristina’s face, but Marius did.

“So what hotel are you staying at?” Marius asked, as they walked to the car. “Is it nearby?”

Kristina looked at Urs, uncertain of what to say. She was sure that if Marius was such a great friend that he would have mentioned she was staying with him.

Urs turned around and looked at Kristina, noticing the look on her face, he answered for her. “I suggested that Kristina stay with me, given her condition.”

Marius opened the car door for Kristina and waited for her to get in before he went to the back of the car where Urs was putting Kristina’s belongings in the boot.

“Are you out of your mind?” Marius hissed at him. “What were you thinking of, inviting her to stay with you?”

Urs stopped what he was doing and looked at Marius. “I’ve told you before, I know what I’m doing.”

“Just like you knew what you were doing with Stephanie.” Marius asked angrily. “You didn’t even love her but that didn’t stop you from sleeping with her. You think this is going to be any different?”

“Nothing is going to happen.” Urs replied through gritted teeth. “She’s with David, she’s pregnant, she’s staying for one night and that’s it. Tomorrow she goes home.”

“And then what?” Marius asked. “She goes back to New York and you’ll never see her again. You‘ll be quite happy with that?”

Urs didn’t answer, he put Kristina’s bag in to the boot before closing it.

“I take it you haven’t told Stephanie that Kristina is staying with you tonight.” Marius asked.

“No, it doesn’t concern her.” Urs replied. “There’s no reason why I should mention it, besides I didn’t want to make things even worse between us.”

“That’s because you know what you’re doing is wrong, Urs.” Marius said.

“Explain how letting her stay over for one night is wrong?” Urs asked, now getting annoyed at having to justify his actions. “She’s just a friend.”

“A friend maybe, but I know you want more than that from her Urs and you’re making trouble for yourself.” Marius said, grabbing hold of Urs‘ arm. “You don’t need any more complications in your life right now, you’ve only just sorted out the whole mess with Stephanie. I don‘t want you doing anything stupid.”

“I love her, Marius.” Urs said quietly. “I’m not going to do anything to ruin what she has with David. But if I find out she feels same the way, you can’t stop me.”

“You’re not listening again.” Marius said, still hanging on to Urs’ arm as he turned to walk to the front of the car. “You can’t tell her you love her. If she has any feelings for you whatsoever don’t you think you would know by now?”

“You saw it.” Urs said, looking at Marius as he shook his arm loose from his grip. “You didn’t say anything but I know you saw it.”

“Saw what?” Marius asked, stepping back from Urs.

“The way she looked at me.” Urs replied. “Go on deny it. You might not think it’s love but there was definitely something there in her eyes.”

Marius stared at Urs. He had seen the way Kristina reacted to Urs but he wasn’t going to tell him; he didn’t want to encourage him.

“Let’s go.” Marius said turning away and ignoring Urs’ comment.

Urs walked round to the drivers side, smiling to himself. Urs was right, Marius couldn't deny that there was something happening between him and Kristina.

***** CHAPTER 23 *****

While Kristina had been sitting in the car waiting, she had heard raised voices between Marius and Urs but hadn’t dared to look back and see what was going on. She only hoped that it wasn’t anything to do with her; she didn’t want to be the cause of an argument between Urs and his friend. The fifteen minute drive from Charles de Gaulle Airport to where Urs lived had been tense and in that time Marius had bombarded Kristina with questions; her home, her family, David, the baby, her job.

Urs kept throwing Marius angry looks, he knew what he was up to. He was trying to show Urs that there was no way Kristina had feelings for him and that being with her was an impossibility. Kristina had a boyfriend with a baby on the way and a life in another country which didn’t include him.

Kristina had sensed something between Marius and Urs as soon as they got in to the car and by the glares she had seen Urs give to Marius while giving her the Spanish inquisition, she now knew that she was the cause. But she had absolutely no idea as to why Marius was taking a dislike to her. She only hoped that the evening would pass quickly.

Urs unlocked the door and let Kristina go inside first. Marius and Urs glared at each other, neither saying a word as they followed her.

“Do you mind if I call David?” Kristina asked. “I just want to let him know I got here safely.”

“Sure, you can use the phone in here.” Urs replied. “Me and Marius will take these upstairs and give you some privacy.”

While Kristina was on the phone to David, Marius was still trying to talk sense in to Urs.

“This is a bad idea, Urs.” Marius said, as he put Kristina’s bag on the floor. “I don’t like it.”

“I’m not asking you to like it.” Urs said, putting the suitcase on the floor. “But will you at least trust me to do the right thing?”

“As long you still know what the right thing is.” Marius said, sarcastically. “You’re not acting yourself just lately and I blame it all on her.”

“When you say ‘her’ I take it you mean Kristina.” Urs snapped. “She does have a name you know. And I don‘t want you blaming her for anything, just be nice to her. If you can‘t do that then I suggest you leave. Now!”

Marius wasn’t about to leave the two of them alone for the whole evening, he was just going to have to bite his tongue and keep his opinions to himself.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be my usual pleasant self.” Marius replied, jokingly, trying to make light of the situation.

Urs gave a weak smile, but he knew Marius was still unhappy about Kristina staying with him. He didn’t want Marius giving Kristina a hard time.

The evening had passed without any incidents, much to the relief of Kristina. The threesome had enjoyed a home cooked meal, made by Urs and they had spent the next three hours talking and getting to know each other.

Marius had noticed several times that Kristina had almost been falling asleep, he wasn’t sure if it was a sign to leave. But it was getting late and if she was genuinely tired he could only do the polite thing and say goodnight

“Well, I guess I should be going then.” Marius said, as he looked at his watch and got up from the couch. “It’s been nice meeting you Kristina and if I don’t see you before you leave then I wish you a safe trip home and I hope the pregnancy goes well for you.”

“Thank you.” Kristina replied, frowning slightly as she kissed him goodbye. “It was nice to meet a friend of Urs’.”

There’s that look again, Marius thought to himself as he looked at Kristina. Urs also noticed the look on her face this time, as Kristina frowned. Maybe she wasn’t happy about being pregnant or maybe there was something wrong with the baby. Neither Marius or Urs asked her about it.

After Marius had left, Urs and Kristina had only been talking for a few minutes when he noticed her yawn.

“Are you tired?” Urs asked.

Kristina nodded. “A little. Would you mind if I went to bed now?”

“Of course not.” Urs replied, getting up from his seat. “Come on, I’ll show you which room is yours.”

Urs led the way and Kristina followed behind him.

“Here you are.” Urs said, as he opened the door for Kristina.

“Thank you.” Kristina replied. “It looks lovely.” she said, as she looked around the room. Then she saw her luggage on the floor.

“Oh, I almost forgot to give you this.” Kristina said, as she knelt down and took something from her bag.

“My cufflink!” Urs said, smiling as Kristina handed it to him. “Thank you. I really did think I was never going to see it again.”

Kristina watched Urs as he looked at the cufflink. She remembered him telling her it was a present from his girlfriend.

“You must love her a lot.” Kristina said quietly.

“Love who?” Urs asked, looking puzzled.

“Who ever gave you that?” Kristina replied, nodding at the cufflink. “It must mean a lot to you.”

“Yes, it does and I’ll always love her.” Urs replied, looking at Kristina. “She’ll always be a part of me.”

Kristina couldn’t help feeling a little jealous about who ever it was Urs was talking about. Jealousy was a feeling that was new to her. Kristina had seen several photographs in the living room of Urs and a woman. She couldn’t help but ask herself where this woman was now? Kristina was curious but didn’t feel comfortable asking him about it.

Urs put a hand up to Kristina’s face and gently caressed her cheek. “Are you okay? You look a little sad.”

“I’m fine, honestly.” Kristina said, putting her hand on Urs’. “I’m just tired.”

It was true, Kristina had felt tired, but as soon as Urs had touched her something went off inside her and she had never felt more awake. Her breathing was becoming a little faster and she could feel her pulse racing. It was happening all over again, the night they first met. What was it about this man that made her feel like this?

Urs was longing to kiss Kristina but he knew it would be wrong. Yet he could sense something happening between them. He wasn’t going to say or do anything, not until he knew for sure how Kristina felt.

Kristina was trying to control her breathing, hoping that Urs wouldn’t notice the effect he was having on her. She kept looking at him, waiting subconsciously for him to kiss her.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” Urs asked again. “It’s just that I noticed you looked a little upset earlier on when Marius mentioned your pregnancy. Everything’s okay with the baby isn’t it?”

Kristina could feel the tears starting to sting the backs of her eyes, she fought desperately to stop herself from crying in front of Urs.

“I’d rather not talk about the baby just now.” Kristina asked, gently removing Urs’ hand from her cheek. “Do you mind if I just go straight to bed?”

Urs noticed the tears in Kristina’s eyes and decided not to ask her any more questions.

“Of course I don’t mind.” Urs said softly. “But I’m always here if you want to talk.”

“Thank you Urs.” Kristina said, placing her hand on his arm. “And I really appreciate you letting me stay here tonight.”

“It’s my pleasure.” Urs replied, smiling at her.

The two of them then stood looking at each other. No words were spoken, but the looks between them seemed to say enough.

“Krissy I…” Urs was interrupted by the phone ringing. “I’d better go and answer that. If you need anything my room’s only next door. Goodnight Krissy.”

“Goodnight Urs.” Kristina said, following him to the door.

Urs looked back and gave one last smile, before Kristina closed the door. She turned around and leant against it, letting out a huge sigh. She really did need to remember how to breathe when she was around that man. There was something about him that made her feel different, she just couldn’t explain it. Her breathing was starting to return to normal and Kristina had changed into some pyjama bottoms and a tank top. No sooner had her head hit the pillow Kristina had fallen asleep.

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

“Where is she?” Marius asked.

“In bed.” Urs replied.

“Whose bed?” Marius asked.

“You’re not funny.” Urs snapped.

“I wasn’t trying to be funny.” Marius said. “It was a simple enough question.”

“She’s in her own bed.” Urs replied. “Are you happy now?”

“I still don’t like it.” Marius said, worriedly. “What you’re doing is wrong, Urs. I just know something will happen.”

“So what do you want me to do? Chuck her out on the street.” Urs said, sarcastically. “Just because you think I can’t control myself.”

“Don’t be stupid, Urs.” Marius snapped back. “I’m not expecting you to do anything of the sort. But I just wish you had let her check in to a hotel, like she planned to.”

“If she didn’t want to stay with me, she could have easily said no.” Urs replied. “But she said yes, so deal with it.”

“I’m not going to get in to another argument, Urs.” Marius said sighing. He knew it was pointless. “I’m going to say goodnight. Just give me a call in the morning and let me know what happens.”

“Why?” Urs asked. “Did you want to hear all the juicy details?”

“Now you’re the one who’s not funny.” Marius replied. “Goodnight Urs.”

Urs hung up the phone and made his way to his room. He stopped at Kristina’s door. Leave her Urs, he thought to himself, if it’s meant to be, it will happen one day, just give it time.

Urs continued to his room, he changed in to a pair of pyjama bottoms and got in to bed. It took him a while to get to sleep, knowing that the woman he loved was only a few feet away from him and that tomorrow he would have to say goodbye to her again.

***** CHAPTER 24 *****

Kristina had only managed to sleep for two or three hours when she woke up and couldn‘t seem to get back to sleep. All Kristina could think about was David and how he had begged her not to go to Paris. When she had spoken to him on the phone earlier he had sounded upset and Kristina couldn’t help feeling guilty when she heard the sadness in his voice. She wished she had taken his and Dr Slater’s advice and stayed at home.

It was no good, Kristina couldn’t sleep. She got out of bed and quietly went down stairs. Kristina didn’t usually drink but she needed something to take her mind off things and help her relax. She opened the drinks cabinet and at first all she could see there were several bottles of wine, but then she spotted a bottle at the very back. It was Bourbon. Just what I need, she thought to herself as she took the bottle and a glass from the cabinet.

Urs woke with a start, he thought he heard something. After laying there for a couple of minutes, and hearing another noise, he sure that someone was downstairs. He quietly got out of bed and made his way out on to the landing. He stood at the top of the stairs and could see a light on downstairs and hear movement. He looked around for something to arm himself with but there was nothing. He decided just to go down and see what it was. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, he saw Kristina kneeling down on the floor.

“Krissy? What are you doing?” Urs asked, as he walked over and knelt down beside her.

“I’m sorry.” Kristina replied. “I knocked a vase over. I hope it wasn’t expensive.”

“Don’t worry about that.” Urs replied. “That can easily be replaced. Here, let me do that.” he said, carefully picking up the glass and putting it on the table. “I don’t want you cutting yourself.”

“I’m sorry.” Kristina said again, her words a little slurred. “I feel really bad about it.”

Urs stopped what he was doing and looked at Kristina. He could smell something on her breath.

“Have you been drinking?” Urs asked.

“I needed something to help me sleep.” Kristina said she stood up.

Urs noticed her stagger backwards and grabbed hold of her. “Exactly how much did you have to drink?”

“Just a couple of glasses.” Kristina replied, hanging on to Urs. “I think I need to sit down.”

Urs helped her over to an arm chair and sat down on the small coffee table opposite her.

“I don’t want you to think I’m telling you what to do, but should you really be drinking in your condition?” Urs asked, as Kristina picked up a glass and took a mouthful of whisky.

“And what condition might that be?” Kristina asked, not looking at Urs.

“You’re pregnant.” Urs replied. “I can’t believe you’ve forgotten that, so why are you drinking?”

“I couldn’t sleep.” Kristina said, looking at Urs.

“Why couldn’t you sleep?” Urs asked. “Is there something on your mind? I meant what I said earlier, I’m always here if you want to talk.”

Kristina didn’t reply, she sat looking at the glass in her hand.

“Is it the baby?” Urs said, quietly. “Is there something wrong with it?”

“There is no baby.” Kristina replied, before taking yet another mouthful of drink.

Urs was silent as he sat and watched Kristina pick up the whisky bottle and fill her up glass.

“Can I ask what happened?” Urs asked in a low voice. “Did you miscarry?”

“Nothing happened.” Kristina replied, shaking her head. “There was no baby to lose.”

“I don’t understand.” Urs said, looking confused. “I thought you were pregnant.”

“So did I.” Kristina replied. “But the lab mixed up the test results.”

“That’s not so bad is it?” Urs said, resting a hand on Kristina’s knee. “What I mean is you can still have children, can’t you?”

“I guess so.” Kristina replied. “But we weren’t trying for a baby.”

“So what were the test results for?” Urs asked.

Kristina didn’t reply.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said. “I didn’t mean to pry.”

“It’s okay.” Kristina replied, looking at Urs. “I went to see the doctor because I kept getting bad headaches. But then they gave my doctor the wrong results. I’m not pregnant.” Kristina took a deep breath before she continued. “I have kidney failure.”

There was a moment of silence as Urs took in what Kristina had just told him.

“Does that mean dialysis?” Urs asked.

“My Doctor thinks it might be too far advanced.” Kristina replied, shaking her head. “It would work for a while but then…”

“What about a donor?” he asked, quietly.

“I‘ve already asked my sister.” Kristina replied. “She‘s coming to New York on Friday to see if she’s a match.”

“Please Krissy, put the glass down.” Urs said, as he leant forward and put his hand on hers. “You really shouldn’t be drinking this.”

“Why not?” Kristina snapped. “One drink won’t make any difference.”

“I think you‘ve had more than one drink, Krissy.” Urs replied. “Please, put the glass down.”

Urs went to take the drink from Kristina. “This isn’t going to help, Krissy. Just give me the glass.”

“NO!” Kristina yelled, struggling with Urs as he took the glass from her. “Give it back.”

“I’m only trying to help, Krissy.” Urs said as he put the glass down on the table, and stopped Kristina from picking it up. “Drinking has never solved anything.”

“If you want to help then tell me, why did this happen to me? Because I don‘t understand.” she sobbed. “What am I going to do if Abigail isn’t a match?”

“I’m sure she will, Krissy. But will you calm down?” Urs said, grabbing her wrists as she tried to hit him.

“Calm down?” she screamed. “Don’t you get it, Urs? If I can’t find a donor I could be dead this time next year.”

Urs wrapped his arms around Kristina, holding her tightly, as she broke down in tears. Urs couldn’t believe this was happening. He never dreamt that he would find anyone else after losing Aimee, but in just five days, he had fallen in love with Kristina, only to find out she could be dying and that he could lose her too.

***** CHAPTER 25 *****

Kristina couldn’t stop crying. Urs had made her move to the couch so that he could try and comfort her properly. Eventually the effects from the drink and the crying had worn her out and Kristina had fallen asleep in his arms. Urs didn’t want to move, he wanted to stay there all night, holding her for as long as he could, knowing that he might never get this chance again. But Urs knew that he had to take her upstairs where she would be more comfortable.

Urs was about to pick up Kristina when the doorbell went. He looked at his watch; it was 3am. Who the hell’s that? he thought to himself.

Urs looked through the peephole in the door.

“Oh crap.” Urs muttered under his breath. “I really don‘t need this right now.”

“Urs!” Stephanie said, banging on the door. “I know you’re there.”

Urs didn’t want Stephanie’s banging on the door to wake up Kristina but he also didn’t want Stephanie to see Kristina there. By the sounds of it, Stephanie was also drunk.

“Urs, are you going to let me in?” Stephanie yelled.

Urs opened the door. “Okay keep your voice down, some people are still trying to sleep.”

Stephanie pushed past Urs as he opened the door. “So is she still here?” Stephanie asked.

“Is who still here?” Urs asked.

“Don’t give me that.” Stephanie snapped. “I came round to see you earlier but as I got here, I saw you, Marius and Kristina arrive. And I know Marius left hours ago, so where is she?”

“Kristina’s asleep.” Urs said, quietly. “I don’t want you bothering her, so leave her alone.”

“Why is she here?” Stephanie demanded.

“If you must know she’s here to see a client.” Urs replied, desperate to get rid of Stephanie. He didn’t want her causing any trouble.

“That still doesn’t explain why she’s staying here, Urs.” Stephanie said, sarcastically. “Is there a sudden shortage of hotel rooms in Paris?”

Urs wasn‘t going to tell her why he had invited Kristina to stay. “Look, what did you come here for, Stephanie?”

Stephanie moved closer to Urs, reaching out and placing a hand on his bare chest. “Why do you think, Urs? I came to see you. I want to be with you, you know how I feel about you.”

Urs gently removed Stephanie’s hand from his chest. “I know, Stephanie. But I don’t feel the same way. I don’t think I ever will.”

“It’s her isn’t it.” Stephanie spat. “She’s got you falling head over heels for her and I can’t even get you to stumble.”

“Stephanie, you’re talking in riddles.” Urs said, ushering her down the hall. “It’s obvious you’ve been drinking and I can’t let you go home like that. You can stay in my room tonight and sleep it off.”

“And where’s she sleeping?” Stephanie said, turning to face Urs.

“In the spare room.” Urs replied. “Where did you think she would be sleeping?”

Stephanie shrugged her shoulders. “So where will you sleep?”

“I’ll sleep on the couch.” Urs replied.

As Urs guided Stephanie to the stairs, she looked across the living room and saw Kristina asleep on the couch. Urs noticed her look at Kristina. He turned and smiled to himself, at seeing her still sleeping peacefully.

“Come on, I’ll show you where you can sleep.” Urs said, as he gently took hold of Stephanie’s arm.

“Why can’t you love me, like you love her?” Stephanie asked, tearfully.

“What makes you think I love her?” Urs asked, as the reached the top of the stairs. “I’ve never said anything about Kristina.”

“I can tell.” she replied, sadly. “I can see it in your eyes when you look at her.”

“I’m sorry Stephanie.” Urs said, softly. “I can’t help how I feel.”

Urs showed Stephanie to his room. “You can sleep here tonight.”

Stephanie turned to face Urs. “Can I ask you something?”

Urs didn’t want to upset Stephanie any more than she already was, so he nodded. “Sure.”

“Does she feel the same way?” Stephanie asked. “Does she love you too?”

Urs had been asking himself that same question for days and he still didn’t know the answer.

“If truth be told, Stephanie.” Urs said, sighing. “I honestly don’t know.”

Stephanie and Urs said goodnight and Urs made his way back downstairs to get Kristina.

She was still fast asleep on the couch, he didn’t know whether to wake her or not. He decided she would be more comfortable upstairs and bent down, carefully lifting her up in his arms; Kristina subconsciously putting her arms around his neck.

Urs carried Kristina back to her room, and as he pushed the door open with his foot, she stirred slightly, nestling her head in to his shoulder. Urs smiled as he looked down at her in his arms, feeling the warmth of her body against him. He had dreamt of holding her close again. Urs had often thought back to the night they had first seen each other and danced together. He had wanted to hold her for so long, but he only wished it were under different circumstances.

Urs gently laid Kristina down on the bed, and pulled the bed sheet up over her. Urs then bent down and looked at her face, brushing a stray hair out of her eyes.

“David?” she mumbled sleepily.

“No it’s me, Urs.” he whispered. “You fell asleep on the couch.”

“Urs? What are you doing here?” she mumbled again. “You’re in Paris.”

Urs quietly chuckled to himself. It was obvious that she was half asleep and explaining it all would be pointless. He lightly ran the back of his finger down her cheek. Her skin was smooth, warm and soft to the touch. She probably didn’t realise how beautiful she was; or just how beautiful he thought she was.

“Go to sleep Krissy.” he said, leaning closer to her. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Goodnight David.” she mumbled.

Urs smiled.

Stephanie had got out of bed to see Urs again, but stopped at the doorway of Urs’ room when she heard voices; she looked through the crack in the door.

“Goodnight Krissy.” Urs said, before gently kissing her on the cheek.

“I love you.” she said, sighing.

Urs looked at Kristina, his heart almost breaking when he realised he might never hear her say those words again; least of all to him.

“I love you too.” he murmured softly.

Stephanie turned and went quietly to her room, cursing under her breath.

***** CHAPTER 26 *****

When Kristina woke, her head was thumping and her throat was dry. She opened her eyes and squinted, trying to focus on her surroundings. At first she didn’t recognise the room but then she remembered where she was. As her vision became clearer she noticed someone in the chair by the bed; it was Urs. By the looks of it he had fallen asleep there and she wondered why he was still there and not in his own room. But for Kristina, those questions were soon forgotten as she cast her eyes over his body.

He was still only wearing the pyjama bottoms but he had a blanket pulled over him which had fallen down to his waist. His chest was well defined, with a light dusting of hair and his arms were toned. She loved his hair, the thick dark curls which seemed to have a mind of their own as he slept. But Kristina’s eyes stayed focused on his face, it was if she had to keep looking at him, remember everything about him, she didn’t want to forget a single detail. Kristina found herself wanting to reach out and touch him. It was only when Urs started to wake up, she realised what she had been thinking and was sure Urs had seen her looking at him.

Urs smiled at Kristina. “Hey, how are you feeling?” he asked quietly, taking the blanket off him and standing up.

Kristina swallowed hard, as she watched him stretch, showing his toned body off even more.

“Okay I think.” Kristina replied. “But my head hurts and my throat is sore.” she added, as she put a hand up to her head.

“That’s what happens when you drink your way through a bottle of Bourbon.” Urs said, as he sat down on the side of the bed.

Kristina looked at him, confused.

“You don’t remember what happened last night?” Urs asked.

Kristina started to panic. What had she done last night? Why was Urs in her room? Surely they hadn’t… no, if they had, he would be laying next to her, not sitting in the chair.

Urs blushed, almost as if reading her mind. “Don’t worry, it’s not what you’re thinking.”

Kristina smiled, feeling a little embarrassed that he guessed what was gonig through her head.

“You really don’t remember anything about last night? “Urs asked again.

Kristina sat up in bed. “I remember waking up, and not being able to get back to sleep. Then I went downstairs and… oh….I remember.” Kristina blushed again. “I’m sorry for breaking that vase.”

“Do you remember what you told me?” Urs asked in a low voice.

Kristina thought about it for a moment, it was slowly coming back to her. She had told Urs about the mix up with the test results. He knew she was ill. Kristina lowered her eyes and looked away from him. She hadn’t meant to tell anyone. She didn’t want people knowing and fussing over her, acting like she was some kind of freak.

“Krissy?” Urs said, putting his hand on her arm. “It’s okay you know, I won’t tell anyone. And I‘m not going to start treating you any differently.”

Kristina looked up at Urs and smiled. She wanted to cry and she had tried so hard to look brave in front of Urs after being so weak last night; but she couldn’t stop the single tear from running down her cheek.

Urs moved closer to her and put his arms around her; this time Kristina put her arms around him too. In some ways it was a relief to have someone else know, maybe it was because she wasn’t with David. She needed to feel safe, but she didn’t know if she felt safe because it was Urs that was holding her or if anyone holding her would make her feel this way.

“Krissy, it’s alright if you want to cry.” Urs whispered into her ear, as he held her. “I won’t think any less of you.”

Kristina pulled away slightly, her hands resting on his shoulders, and looked at Urs. “How do you do that?” Kristina said, softly.

“Do what?” Urs asked, his arms still around her.

“You always seem to know exactly what I’m thinking.” she replied. “It’s almost like you’re inside my head, reading my every thought.”

“I don’t know. Maybe it's magic.“ Urs replied, smiling. “Can you read my mind? Tell me what I’m thinking.”

Urs looked straight in to Kristina’s eyes with a look of love, and she looked back at him. There was that look again, that feeling, every time they looked at each other she felt something. There was something calming and peaceful about it. Kristina’s breathing was starting to get a little faster and her gaze went from his eyes to his lips. She had only met Urs five days ago and hardly knew him, so why did she have the strong urge to kiss this man?

Urs felt that same connection as Kristina looked at him. He could hear her soft breathing getting faster and her eyes were now on his lips. He was waiting for her to kiss him, he didn’t want to force her into anything; he would wait for her to make the first move. But she didn’t, because there was a knock on the door; it was Stephanie.

“Morning.” she said, cheerfully as she opened the door. “I’m just about to make some coffee, anyone want a cup?”

Kristina pulled away from Urs, surprised to see Stephanie. “Not for me thanks.” she replied, feeling embarrassed that Stephanie had found her and Urs so close.

“Urs?” Stephanie asked, looking at him.

“It’s ok, just let me get changed quickly and I’ll make it.” Urs said standing up. “I’ll see you downstairs.” Urs said, smiling at Kristina. She nodded.

Urs left Kristina’s room and she got out of bed. She then noticed Stephanie was still standing in the doorway.

“Does David know?” Stephanie said, scowling at Kristina.

“Know what?” Kristina asked, looking puzzled.

“About you and Urs spending the night together.” she replied.

Kristina walked over to Stephanie. “You’ve got it all wrong, nothing happened, he slept in the chair.”

“And you expect me to believe that?” Stephanie spat. “I‘ve seen the way you two look at each other.”

“I’m sorry Stephanie, but I think you’re imagining things.” Kristina replied, sounding shocked. “Now if you’ll excuse me I want to get dressed.” Kristina closed the door on Stephanie.

While Kristina was getting washed and dressed she thought about what Stephanie had said to her. She could understand why Stephanie had thought they had spent the night together, but it was true, Urs had slept in the chair; although Kristina still didn’t know why. But as for the way they had been looking at each other, what did she mean? As Kristina opened the bedroom door she started thinking back to when they had first met; but she walked straight in to Stephanie who had been waiting outside for her.

“So when are you going to tell David about you and Urs?” Stephanie said, blocking Kristina from passing.

“I’ve already told you, there’s nothing going on between me and Urs.” Kristina said, as she tried to get past Stephanie.

“So what was he doing in your room all night?” Stephanie asked, grabbing hold of Kristina’s arm. “I heard you both talking and I heard what you said. I know you love him.”

“I don‘t know what you heard, or what you thought you heard, but I don’t love him.” Kristina said, as she shook her arm loose from Stephanie’s grip.

“So why did you say it then?” Stephanie snapped. “Or do you enjoy playing with people’s feelings?”

“Say what?” Kristina asked as she pushed her way past Stephanie. Kristina had absolutely no idea what Stephanie was talking about.

“I heard you tell him you love him.” Stephanie replied. “And he said he loved you too. So go on, tell me I’m still hearing things. Tell me I imagined it all.”

“I… I never… I don’t…” Kristina turned round to face Stephanie, shaking her head in disbelief. “I never said that.”

“You’re a liar, Kristina.” Stephanie spat, pushing Kristina on the shoulder. “I heard you say it and I heard Urs say it too. Because of you I’ll never have him.” Stephanie continued pushing Kristina backwards, but Kristina was in no mood to fight back. She was in shock at what Stephanie was telling her. Urs loved her, it couldn‘t be true. “Urs loves you and you don’t deserve him.” Stephanie said, raising her voice. “You don’t deserve, David. And you sure as hell don’t deserve to have his baby.” Stephanie added, as she gave Kristina another hard shove causing Kristina to stumble backwards and lose her footing at the top of the stairs.

Urs had been downstairs in the kitchen, making coffee, when he heard someone scream. He rushed out of the kitchen to find Kristina laying at the bottom of the stairs and Stephanie standing at the top.

***** CHAPTER 27 *****

“Krissy? Krissy can you hear me?”

Kristina could hear someone saying her name but she didn’t want to open her eyes. She was trying to concentrate on where the pain was coming from, she felt sore all over, every part of her ached.

“Krissy?”

Kristina slowly opened her eyes and saw a face looking down at her.

“Urs… ” She said quietly.

"Okay, stay still.” Urs said, as Kristina tried to move. “Does it hurt anywhere?”

“Yes.” came the faint reply.

“Where?” Urs asked, looking worried. “Where does it hurt?”

“I don’t know…all over.” Kristina replied, trying to sit up again. Urs noticed her wince as she grabbed her arm.

“Is it okay?” Urs asked, gently touching her arm. “Have you done something to your arm?”

“I think I’ve sprained my wrist.” Kristina said, holding her arm.

“Try and move some of your fingers.” Urs said, watching her hand.

Kristina tried to move her fingers and cried out in pain.

“I think you’ve broken it.” Urs said, looking at Kristina. “We’ll have to go to the hospital. But what happened? How did you fall?”

As Kristina tried to stand up she saw Stephanie standing over her.

“I slipped.”

“Here let me help you.” Urs said, as he put an arm around Kristina’s waist.

“I’m fine.” she snapped. “I can stand up on my own.”

“Don’t be silly.” Urs replied. “You’ve just had a nasty fall.”

“It’s my wrist that’s broken, not my leg.” Kristina said, pushing him away.

Urs let go of Kristina and stood back, shocked at the way she had reacted to him helping her. Kristina looked at Stephanie.

“I’ll go and get the car keys.” Urs said quietly, leaving Stephanie and Kristina alone together.

“Why did you lie to him?” Stephanie asked, glaring at Kristina. “You and I both know you didn’t slip.”

“It was an accident.” Kristina replied. “I know you didn’t mean to push me.”

“You think?” Stephanie said, laughing. “Then you’re not as clever as I thought. You needn‘t think I‘m going to say thank you for not telling Urs.”

“I don’t expect you to.” Kristina replied.

“So why lie?” Stephanie asked again. Kristina didn’t reply.

Urs then returned with the car keys and looked at Stephanie and Kristina. “Everything okay?”

The two women nodded. “Okay, let’s get you to the hospital. I’ll see you later Stephanie.”

“You don’t want me to come with you?” Stephanie asked.

“No, why don’t you stay here.” Urs replied.

“I hope the baby is okay.” Stephanie said, as she glared at Kristina. Both Urs and Kristina looked at Stephanie, as they suddenly realised she still thought Kristina was pregnant. But now wasn’t the time to tell her.

Urs started up the car and they left for the hospital. Neither of them spoke.

Kristina was thinking back to what Stephanie had said. She had to be lying, Urs didn’t love her and she love didn’t love him. They hardly knew one another. Stephanie must have heard wrong, but Kristina didn’t see Stephanie last night. The first time she saw her was this morning, when she woke up. When did she arrive? And if Stephanie loved Urs why would she make up something like that? What happened last night between her and Urs? What wasn’t Urs telling her?

“Do you mind if I put the radio on?” Urs asked, trying to break the silence that had now become uncomfortable.

Kristina shrugged. “It’s your car, not mine.” she replied, as she continued to stare out the car window.

Urs glanced at Kristina. Why was she acting so strange towards him?

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

Urs and Kristina had been sitting in the hospital for almost an hour, waiting to see a doctor.

“How’s the wrist?” Urs asked, warily.

“How do you think?” Kristina replied. “It hurts.”

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, quietly, as he lowered his eyes to the floor.

“What are you sorry for?” Kristina asked.

“I invited you to stay with me.” Urs replied. “If it wasn’t for me, you could be staying in a nice hotel with room service and not stuck here waiting to see a doctor.”

“It’s not your fault.” Kristina replied. “I slipped, it’s my own fault.”

Urs looked at Kristina. “Are you sure about that?”

“What do you mean?” Kristina asked, trying to avoid looking at Urs.

“Are you sure you slipped?” Urs replied. “Did you and Stephanie argue?”

“What makes you think that?” Kristina asked, desperately looking around for a doctor so that she didn’t have to answer any more of Urs’ questions.

“I thought I heard raised voices when I left you two alone earlier. And I saw the looks you two were giving each other.” Urs paused before continuing. “Did she… did she push you?”

“You’re insane.” Kristina said, still avoiding eye contact with Urs. She hadn’t looked him in the eyes since they had left for the hospital. She daren’t look at him in case it was true; the way she felt when she looked at him, was it love? It scared her, to think that Stephanie might actually be right and that Urs also loved her. It wasn’t possible, Kristina was with David, she loved him, not Urs.

A doctor finally came out to see Kristina and they both stood up.

“Do you want me to come with you?” Urs asked.

Kristina looked in his direction, but still couldn’t look him in the eye.

She shook her head. “No, I’ll be fine. Why don’t you go and get something to eat.” Kristina followed the doctor and Urs stood watching her as she disappeared around the corner.

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

An hour later, after having x-rays and her wrist put in a cast, Kristina came back to find Urs sitting in the same spot where she left him.

“Are you alright?” Urs asked, as he stood up to meet her.

“I’m fine.” Kristina replied. “It was a clean break, but can we just get out of here. I hate hospitals.”

Urs smiled weakly, Kristina was still being off with him and he didn’t know why.

As they walked back to the car, Urs kept glancing at Kristina.

“Have I done something to upset you?” Urs asked, gently putting his hand on her arm, causing her to stop and face him.

“No, nothing.” Kristina replied, as she glanced at him quickly and then looked past him, over his shoulder.

“So why won’t you look at me?” Urs asked, sadly. “You’ve hardly said two words to me, and you seem angry with me.”

“I’m not angry with you, Urs.” Kristina replied. “I’m angry with myself.”

“I don’t understand.” Urs said, looking confused.

“I should never have come here.” Kristina said, as she turned and started walking towards the car. “I should’ve stayed at the hotel, then none of this would have happened.”

“None of what?” Urs asked, catching up with her. “The accident? Stephanie? Last night?”

Kristina stopped and turned to face Urs. “What happened last night Urs? What haven’t you told me?”

Urs shook his head. “I don’t know what you mean.”

“Stephanie says she overheard us talking last night.” Kristina replied. “But I don’t remember Stephanie being there.”

“She showed up after you fell asleep on the couch.” Urs replied. “She was drunk, so I let her sleep in my room. What did she say to you?”

“Nothing.” Kristina replied. “It’s not important.”

“Krissy I….” Kristina interrupted Urs.

“Just answer me one question.” Kristina said quietly, finally looking at Urs. "Why did you sleep in my room last night?"

Urs looked at Kristina. What could he say? He wanted to tell her he loved her, that he couldn’t stop thinking about her, that he wanted to be with her. But he had promised Marius he wouldn’t say anything, not until he knew how she felt about him. Yet he didn’t know if or when he would see her again, he had to tell her.

“Krissy.” Urs said softly, as he put a hand up to her face and gently caressed her cheek. “I think you know why.”

“We should go.” Kristina said, stepping back from Urs. “I…I need to go back to your place and get my things. I still have to meet my client.”

“Krissy, can we talk about this?” Urs said, as he unlocked the car.

“Urs, can we please go?” Kristina said. “In case you’ve forgotten, I’ve also got a plane to catch.“

“Krissy, please.” Urs said, as he opened the door for her.

“There’s nothing to talk about, Urs.” Kristina replied before getting in to the car.

Urs closed the door and made his way round to the drivers side. He got in to the car and they drove back to Urs’ place in complete silence.