Chapter 60: The past is the past

“I can’t believe I agreed to this.” Ulva mumbled, pulling her suitcase behind her. Her plane had been delayed for two hours, it was hot and she was tired and grumpy. Carlos had asked her to come to Madrid. He wanted to tell his parents that they were back together. She had her doubts about it, seeing what had happened in the past. But Carlos told her everything would be just fine and that he wouldn’t give her up this time.

When she went through the doors to the arrival hall, all her doubts vanished. There he was… The man she loved.
Carlos waved when he spotted her. Ulva made her way over to him and he pulled her against his chest. “I missed you.” His hot lips made her forget all her worries.
“I missed you too.” She sighed.
He handed her a huge bouquet of red roses.
“Oh Carlos…”
“Just to show you how much I love you and missed you.” He took her suitcase. “Let’s go. I have a nice room.”


That evening they had dinner at his parents’ house. Ulva was nervous as hell. She straightened her dress and looked at him. “Do I look ok?”
“You look great, Querida. Stop worrying.” He squeezed her hand while he rang the bell.
“Carlos!” His mother hugged him.
“Mamacitá.”
His mother rambled in Spanish, but stopped when she noticed the woman who stood behind her son. “You have company?”
“Si.” Carlos took Ulva’s hand. “Mama, do you remember…”
“Ulva.” His mother said quietly.
“It’s nice to see you again, Mrs Marin.” She smiled.
“What is this Carlos?” Susanna looked intently at him.
“Let’s go in and I’ll tell you all about it.” He said.

In the living room his father waited for him. He was surprised as well to see Ulva again.
Carlos sat down and pulled her next to him. “Ulva was our wedding planner. And when I saw her again, I realised that I still loved her. I never forgot about her.” He gently squeezed her hand. “Things weren’t going well between Sabrina and I. And I found out some things that weren’t nice at all. Anyway… Ulva and I are back together and I’m determined to make this work. We have both changed a lot. I guess we grew up. And we love each other. And that’s the most important thing to me.”

His parents looked at each other and were quiet for a while. Ulva shifted in her seat. “Maybe I should go.” She whispered.
“No.” Suzanna smiled at her. “I think we owe you an apologise. What happened years ago… I… I never should have asked you to leave Carlos. We shouldn’t have asked.”
Juan nodded. “Si. It is obvious that Carlos loves you very much. We only want what’s best for him. And you were so young back then.”
Ulva nodded. “I know. And I don’t know if I would have been able to go through with the wedding.”
Carlos looked at her. “Que?”
“Carlos, I was so young. And getting pregnant wasn’t exactly what we had planned. Don’t get me wrong. I would have married you, but I don’t know if we would have stayed together.” She squeezed his hand. “I have changed, Carlos. We both have. I’m more mature now. I have my own business.” She shrugged. “And I think that I’m ready for that commitment now. I love you. And I won’t ever leave you.”
Carlos smiled and kissed her tenderly. “I’m glad to hear it.”

He looked at his parents. “So, what’s for dinner?”
Ulva smiled. She was glad that they had finally talked things through. They could start working on their future now.



Bridget read through the email the private detective had sent her.
“Nothing unusual… Just doing her job… But you might want to take a look at the pictures.”
The pictures showed Stephanie Hunter with her son. Playing in the garden, taking a walk,… There was one picture with a close up of the boy. He grinned at the camera.

Bridget couldn’t believe her eyes. This couldn’t be… “Oh my God…”
“Father unknown. He’s not mentioned on the birth certificate. But I think there is no doubt about who he is. And that is probably why she’s trying to get back at the guys. Revenge…”

She pulled out her mobile. “Simon, did you see that email? … Yes, I know. It’s scary how much he looks like his father. … No, not yet. You want me to talk to him? … Ok. … Of course I’ll be discrete. Don’t worry about it. … I will. Talk to you soon.”

Chapter 61: A son

Bridget took a deep breath before dialling the number the detective had given her.
“Stephanie Hunter speaking.”
“Goodmorning, Miss Hunter. This is Bridget Mason. SonyBMG would like to invite you and your family to come to the Il Divo concert in Lisbon the day after tomorrow.”
“Ehm… That’s very kind of you, but…”
“Mr Cowell has arranged that you can use the Sony plane, so you don’t have to worry about anything.” She smiled.
“Yes, but…”
“How many people are you bringing?” Bridget asked.
Stephanie shook her head. “No one.”
“What about your son? Your boss mentioned you have a little boy.”
“I do, but… He’s just one year old and… I think the trip might be too tiring.” She stammered.
“Nonsense. And the guys love children. So please, bring him along.” Bridget insisted.
“Oh… Ok… I guess. Thank you.”
Bridget smiled. “I’ll email you the details and I’ll see you in two days. Goodbye Miss Hunter.”
“Bye.”

“What are you up to?” Urs frowned.
“You know the saying… Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” She winked.
“Really?” he gathered her in his arms. “I like to keep you close. Very close.”
She smiled at him. “I don’t mind one bit!”
Urs softly kissed her. “And soon we’ll be in Paris. The city of romance.”
“You are so funny sometimes.” Bridget chuckled.
“Excuse me?” he looked confused.
“Well… You always pretend to be so cool and distant when we are out. But deep down you’re such a romantic guy.” She smiled.
Urs stroked her cheek. “Do you mind? I love you, Bridget. And I don’t care that people know we are together.”
“But you don’t want to get all mushy… I understand.” She said. “And I am still your PA. So it wouldn’t be appropriate anyway.”
“But now that we are inside…” he picked her up. “Let’s see how mushy I can get!”


“I miss you too. But I’ll be home in 3 weeks. And then we have some time to ourselves.” David said.
“I know. I wish I could come to Paris.” Lorna sighed.
“Maybe you can come over for a weekend? It’s not that far.” He suggested.
“Yeah, maybe…”
“How’s our little one?” David asked.
She smiled. “I still have morning sickness. And I scheduled my scan for when you get back. I want you to be there.”
“Good! I don’t want to miss it!” he said. “But I have to go now, Babe.”
“Ok. You be good.”
“Always! I love you, Lorna.”
“I love you too.”

David sighed. He missed having her around. Lorna was very hormonal and moody at the moment, but he loved to have her around. He wanted to share the pregnancy with her as much as he could. And here he was… On tour. And she was in London… Teaching again.
“3 weeks… Just 3 more weeks…”


When they guys arrived in the hotel in Lisbon 2 days, later, they were greeted by a crying boy.
“Mummy! Mummy!!!!” he sobbed and stretched his little arms to her.

David looked at her. There was something familiar about her. But then he just shrugged and moved on. When he passed the boy, he ruffled his blond hair. And that’s when time stood still.
The little boy looked up, his big blue eyes looking at David, his face streaked with tears. David felt like he was looking at himself. He kept starring at the boy, but then his mother pulled him back.
“Excuse me.” She mumbled and tried to move past David, but he blocked her.

The woman picked up her son and held onto the diaper bag with her other arm. “Please…”
David swallowed. This couldn’t be. “Have we…”
“Let’s go somewhere to talk.” Bridget came over.
“What is this?” David asked.
“David, this is Stephanie Hunter.” Bridget said. “And that’s her son. Your son.”

Chapter 62: My boy

David sank down in a chair, still looking pale as a sheet. “I have a son?”
Stephanie looked angrily at Bridget. “This was all a set up, wasn’t it? You’ll pay for this! Believe me! I’m gonna destroy you guys! All of you! How the hell did you even find out?"

Bridget swallowed hard as the woman before her was fuming, she'd refused to sit down and now her son was crying as his mummy continued to raise her voice.
"I'm gonna kill my boss! This is..." she realized that her son was crying because of her and took a calming breath. She hugged him close to her and whispered in his ear, rocking him until his wails became small whimpers. She continued to rock him and stroke his blond hair and finally looked up. "The travel has him a bit on the fussy side. I'm sorry. We got off on the wrong foot. I'm just very protective of my son. He's all the family I've got and..." she let her voice trail off.

"How long have you known that he was my son?" David asked the question softly and Bridget and Stephanie both froze. To whom was he asking the question?
"Are you talking to me?" Bridget asked and David nodded. Stephanie grabbed some soft cookies from the diaper bag and handed one to the little boy who was now sniffling only occasionally.

"Only a few days. I saw the picture and knew that you had to be the father." Bridget admitted and looked over at Stephanie who seemed ready to pop. Instead she sat down and kept the little boy on her lap, he was the reason she lived now and she was very careful around him.
"And you? How long have you known?" David asked looking at Stephanie and at his son.

"Not that night. I didn't know who you were, but later, when I got moved to the entertainment section of the paper. I covered one of your TV appearances and by then I had just found out I was pregnant. There was no point in telling you. You'd never believe me." Stephanie shrugged and hugged her son closer.

“What’s his name?” David asked.
“Justin. Justin Dathan Hunter.” she smiled.
David shook his head. “How the hell am I supposed to tell Lorna?”
“She doesn’t need to know. He’s my son. She has got nothing to do with him. And neither do you.” Steph said.
“He is my son. I need to be part of his life.” David said.
“No, you don’t. I always took care of him on my own. He’s all I have. You’re not taking him away from me!” Steph held the little boy close to her.
“I’m not gonna take him away. But I am his father, so I have the right to…”
“No, you don’t! Your name isn’t even on the birth certificate! He’s my son! Mine!” Steph yelled.

Justin started whimpering again, but Steph rocked him and made soothing sounds.
David sighed. “Look… All I want is parental visitation.”
“Why? You didn’t even know you had a son till a few minutes ago. Please, David… Don’t do this.” She pleaded.
“He is my son. I have rights!” David said angrily.
“No one knows he is your son!”
“You want to do this the hard way? I can ask for a DNA test. I’ll go to court if I have to!” he slammed the table.
Bridget touched his arm. “Calm down. You’re scaring Justin.”

David took a deep breath when he saw the little boy looking at him, his blue eyes wide open, his bottom lip trembling.
“I’m sorry.” He mumbled.
Steph sighed. “What do you want, David?”
“All I want is a chance to get to know my son. Spend some time with him. I’m not taking him away from you. I would never do that. But… I just want to get to know him.” He said.
“I guess so…” she stroked Justin’s hair. “But I don’t want this to get to the press.”
David frowned. “I’m not the one who’s writing nasty articles!”
Steph shot him a look that could have killed him. “Oh come on! You guys aren’t exactly angels!”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” David snapped. “You think that I wouldn’t have been there if I knew you were pregnant? You didn’t even give me a chance!”
“It was a one night stand, David. We agreed on that.” Steph sighed. “Look, I really need to put him in bed.”

David nodded. “Yeah… Can we meet up? Maybe later or tomorrow?”
“She’s coming to the concert tonight.” Bridget said.
“Maybe we can go for a drink afterwards?”
“We’ll see.” Steph stood up, gathering her bag and Justin.
“Can I… hold him?” David bit his lip.
For a minute Steph just looked at him. But then she finally nodded and handed him the little boy.

“Hi there. I’m your daddy.” He gently touched his little hand.
Justin starred at him, not knowing if he should cry or not. But he decided David was ok, and grabbed his finger with his little hand.
Bridget glanced at Stephanie and saw the mix of emotions on her face. She realised it must be hard for her. But David had the right to be with his son.

After a few minutes, David handed his son back to Steph. “Thanks.”
“I’m going now. I guess I’ll see you tonight.” She said.
“You will.” He nodded.

When Steph was out of side, David turned to Bridget. “You should have told me.”
“I know, but…” she shrugged. “I was gonna tell you today. I didn’t expect her to be here.”
“I have to tell Lorna in person. I can’t do this on the phone.” He sighed.
“Why don’t you go over there before we go to Paris? We have a day off, so…” she suggested.
“Yeah… I guess I should.” David bit his lip. “Would you mind telling the others? I don’t know if I can do it.”
She nodded. “Ok, I will.”
“I have a son.” A smile appeared on his lips. “I have a son.”

Chapter 63: Details

Steph sat through the concert. She had to admit the guys were good. And the audience sure loved them. But she couldn’t believe they wouldn’t grab the chance to take one of those girls home for the night.

“Miss Hunter? The guys are waiting for you.” Bridget came to get her.
“So who are the lucky ones tonight?” she couldn’t resist asking.
Bridget frowned. “Excuse me?”
“Oh come on! Look at them! As if the guys aren’t taking some of them to their room!” she snorted.
Bridget took a deep breath. “I hate to disappoint you, Miss Hunter. But I’ve been working for them since the beginning and I can assure you they are nothing like that.”
“Yeah right… I think Justin is the proof of that.” Steph said.
“You want to meet the guys or not?” Bridget began to loose her temper.
“Sure… It might be nice for another article.”


Bridget opened the door to the lounge and the guys immediately stopped talking. “Guys, I want you to meet Miss Stephanie Hunter. Miss Hunter, meet Il Divo.”
They all shook hands and Bridget noticed they tried not to show their curiosity.
“Take a seat.” David suggested.

“Did you like the concert?” Carlos asked.
“Yeah… It was great.” Steph nodded. She looked around and saw how Urs pulled Bridget on his lap and winked. Seb and Sophia sat together as well, his hand laying on her bump. Maybe they weren’t so bad after all. They looked happy, but were they? Or was it just an act?

“So, Mr Marin… Your fiancée isn’t here?” she asked.
“No. As you know Ulva is running a business. She can’t get away all the time. But we talk on the phone. A lot!” he grinned.
She nodded. “Of course.”

After some chit chat, Steph stood up. “I better go. Justin stayed in our suite with a nanny. And I don’t want to leave him on his own for too long.”
“Can we do something tomorrow? Maybe we can go to the beach?” David suggested.
“I don’t know. I…”
“Please, Steph.” He stood up and took her hands. “One day. That’s all I’m asking.”
She sighed. “Ok. You can pick us up at 10.”
“Great! Thanks!” he kissed her on the cheek. “I really appreciate it.”
“You’re welcome. It was nice to meet you. Maybe you guys aren’t so bad after all.” She said.

When the door closed, everyone looked at David.
“What?” he shrugged.
“I want details!” Sophia grinned. “When? Where? How?”
“Women.” Seb rolled his eyes.
“As if you don’t want to know!” she playfully slapped his arm.
“True. So tell us, mon ami.” Seb smiled.

David sighed. “I met her in a nightclub in London about a month after I broke up with Fiona. We started talking and danced a little. We were both… slightly drunk and one thing led to another. I took her to the hotel next to the club and… Well, you know.” He shrugged. “It was one night. We didn’t exchange numbers or anything. I only knew her first name. The next morning we said goodbye and never saw each other again.”

“So you didn’t recognise her name on the articles?” Urs asked.
He shook his head. “No.”
“And you have a son now.” Carlos stated.
“Yes. It’s hard to believe but when you look at him…” he looked at Bridget who smiled.
“He’s the spitting image of his father.”
“How are you gonna tell Lorna?” Seb asked.
“I’m going over there before we go to Paris. I need to tell her in person. I can’t do it on the phone and I don’t want her to hear it from someone else. I just hope she’ll understand.” He said softly.
“I’m sure she will. It won’t be easy to accept it, but…” Sophia shrugged. “She loves you and it’s something that happened in the past.”

“Yeah… And I need to tell Simon.” He bit his lip.
“You want me to do it?” Bridget asked.
“Do you mind? He won’t be so mad at you.” David said.
“He’s not gonna be mad.” She smiled. “I’ll call him in the morning.”
“Well, amigo… I never thought you would be the one to get into this kind of trouble. Our Frenchie…. Yes, but you…” Carlos winked.
“Hey!” Seb said. “Who appeared in his naked butt on the front page?”

Chapter 64: Bonding

The next day, David took Steph and Justin to the beach. She put the little boy on a large towel, put sun cream all over his body and put a little hat on his head.

David looked at the way she dealt with him. It was obvious that she loved him very much and that the boy meant everything to her.
Justin looked at the sand and patted on it with his hand. He squealed and grabbed two hands full before dropping it again.

David crouched in front of him. “You want to make a sandcastle?”
The boy grinned and grabbed another hand full of sand.
Steph watched how David softly talked to their son. He put sand in a plastic bucket and tried to make a beautiful castle. Justin hobbled around and pushed over the towers that David had built. His laughter made her heart jump up. He wasn’t going to harm her son.

“You little rascal.” David picked up Justin and tickled his tummy.
The boy laughed happily and patted his face with his sandy hands. “Daddy!”
Steph held her breath and her eyes met David’s.
“Yes… Daddy.” He whispered, hugging the boy.


Steph noticed that Justin was getting tired. “Let’s have some lunch and then I can put him down for a nap.”
David nodded. “Sure.”
She handed him a sandwich. “Hmm… Ham and cheese with sand… I love it!” he grinned.

After Steph had cleaned up Justin, she put him in his cot. He immediately put his thumb in his mouth and held a yellow teddy bear in his arms.
“He’s a sweet child.” David said.
“Yes, he is. He gives me hardly any troubles.” Steph nodded.
“I’m really sorry about all this. If I had known…”
“I know, David. I’m sorry about everything. We started off on the wrong foot. Those articles…” she shook her head. “I was mad… Everyone sees you guys as the perfect men. And…”

“Why did you keep the child?” he asked softly.
“I couldn’t let it take away. It wouldn’t have been right.” She looked at him. “And the first time I felt him move… It was such an unbelievable feeling.”
“I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you.” He said.
“It’s ok.” She looked at the sleeping Justin. “We managed just fine. And I can work from home, so…”
“I’ll support you from now on. He’s my son too, so…” David shrugged.
“No, David. I…”
He took her hand. “I’m married, Steph. My wife is pregnant. All I want is be there for my son and give him the future he deserves.”
“I don’t want to cause troubles between you and your wife.” Steph looked at her hands.
“You won’t. I’m not planning on leaving her.” He said. “I’m going home tomorrow. I can’t tell her this over the phone.”
“You’re a good man, David.”
David smiled at her. “You’re not so bad yourself.”
“And I promise you that there won’t be any nasty articles anymore. They took me off the section anyway.” She shrugged.
“Because of the lawsuit?” David asked.
She nodded. “Yes. But I guess it was time for a change anyway.”


After Justin had woken up, Steph and David took him for a walk along the shore. He and David were soaking wet by the time they made it back to the car.
“Well… He sure looks like his father.” Steph winked.
David attached Justin in the car seat and looked at Steph. “Thank you for today. I really appreciate it. You’re an amazing mother. I know my son is in good hands.”
“You’re not so bad yourself. And I think it would be good for him to spend some time with you. So I’m not gonna keep him away from you. Feel free to visit us whenever you want.” She said.
David hugged her. “Thank you. It means a lot.”

David started the car. He smiled all the way back to the hotel. The only thing that was bothering him was Lorna. How was she gonna react to the news?

Chapter 65: Telling the news

Lorna paced up and down, waiting for the sound of the buzzer so she could let her husband in. What was it that was so urgent that he needed to come over for? Why couldn’t he tell her on the phone? He had reassured her that there was nothing to worry about, but wasn’t there? Did he want the annulment after all? Had he met someone else? Ideas were going round and round her head.

She checked the dinner table again and made sure that everything was in place and then started to tidy up things in the lounge like she always did when she was nervous or anxious.

David's heart was racing. He was about to tell his wife that he was a father, that the child she was bearing was not going to be his first born. He had no idea how Lorna was going to take the news. What would this mean for them? They already had to deal with more than their fair share of ups and downs.

But then David looked down at the picture that Stephanie had let him have and smiled. Surely one little sweet boy could not cause that much trouble and David was proud of him in a way.


He pressed the buzzer. It was after 9 pm and the doormen retired after that time.
“Hello?”
“Hey hun, it's me.” He tried to sound happy.
“Come on up. Dinner's almost ready.”

He took a deep breath and took the elevator. As the doors opened he walked to her front door and saw that it was already open, the aroma of fish making him feel hungrier then he was.
“Lorna?”
“In the kitchen.”

He went in and saw that she was trying to busy herself and he knew she was worried.
“Hey you.”
“Hi.” Lorna slowly walked over to him and allowed him to place a gentle kiss on her lips and stroke her now visible bump. It was an awkward silence and neither knew how to start the conversation off.

“I did us some salmon for dinner, that's if you’re hungry.” She said.
David nodded. “Sounds good. I'll just go freshen up.”
“David, everything is ok between us, isn't it?”
“Of course it is.” He smiled.
“You would tell me if it was something serious, wouldn't you?”

David noticed the tears welling in her eyes and the shakiness in her voice. He went back over to her and hugged her. “Lorna, everything is fine between us. I love you and that is never going to change, ok?”
“Ok, sorry. It's just when you said that you needed to talk to me about something, I just worried. That's all.” She said.
“Everything is fine, ok?” He kissed her forehead and then left quickly to freshen up. He thought and thought about how to tell her but he just didn't know how to. He thought he would just have to see how the conversation went.

When they sat down to dinner, they started off with small talk at first, talking about the pregnancy and how the tour was going. Once they finished eating, David took her hand and led her through to the lounge. They sat down and David knew that he had to do it now.

“Lorna, I have to tell you something and if I don't do it now then I don't know if I ever will.”
“Ok.” She swallowed.
“I want you to know that this is not going to change anything between us. The way I feel about you, the way I feel about our baby… it changes nothing.” He said.
Lorna squeezed his hand. “David, you’re scaring me again. Please just tell me.”

David handed her the photograph and stood up, leaving her to look at it carefully.
“David, this is you as a little boy. Why are you showing me a picture of you?”
“It’s not me.” He said softly.
Lorna looked more closely. She noticed that it was not David, though it was spooky how similar they looked. “Well, if it's not you, then who is it?”
“His name is Justin. He's the son of Stephanie Hunter.” David said.
“The woman who wrote the articles?” she frowned.
“Yes.”
“David, what is going on? Why do you have a picture of her son?”
“Justin, he's my...” He turned round to face her and sat back down. “He's my son, Lorna.”
“What?” Lorna breathed and leant back away from him.

“About a year and a half ago, I was going through a bit of a rough time and had a one night stand with someone. I didn't remember anything about her but obviously given who I was she remembered me.”
Lorna dropped the photograph and stood up. She went into the kitchen and started to clear the dishes away. She was in complete shock. David didn't know what to do. He got up and watched her washing up.

“Lorna? Lorna sweetie… Say something please.”
“What do you want me to say?” she asked.
“We need to talk about this.”
“What exactly do we need to talk about? Are you leaving me to be with her?”
He shook his head. “No.”
“Then what David?”
“I want Justin to be a part of my life. Our life. I want to be his father, Lorna and I want him to know who I am.” He said seriously.

“Does she want to get back with you?”
“Who?”
“You know who!” she snapped.
“She knows that I love you and she knows that I am not going to leave you. Whether she wants to be with me or not is irrelevant. I love you and I want to be with you but I have a son to think about now.” He said.
“Don't come over all ‘Daddy knows best’ now David. You didn't know he even existed until a few days go.”
David frowned. “So?”
“What makes you think that she is even going to let you play a part in his life?”
“Because I spoke to her about it.”

Lorna turned round and headed towards the bedroom.
“Where are you going now?”
“I want to be on my own.”
“Lorna... Lorna!” David yelled.

She slammed the door in his face and David knew to back off. He knew that she would be upset and that she was hormonal at the moment but he didn't do anything wrong. She would come round eventually. He knew she would.

Chapter 66: Paris

“Ah…Paris!” Seb smiled widely when the plane touched ground.
“Happy to be back?” Sophia asked.
He nodded. “Oui. And I can’t wait for you to meet Maman.”

Sophia didn’t answer him. She was nervous as hell. Seb had assured her his mother would like her, but how would she react to the fact that he was dating a pregnant woman? Pregnant with a child that wasn’t his.

While Carlos, Urs and Bridget went to the hotel, Seb took Sophia to his apartment. He wanted to show her where he lived. He wanted her to get know him in his own place. As the real Sebastien. Not the Divo.

He opened the door to his apartment and let Sophia in. He put the luggage in the bedroom and saw her looking around. “I know it’s not much, but it’s home.” He shrugged.
“Oh Seb…” she touched his cheek. “It is very you and I like it. I don’t care where you live. I care about you.”
“I know, but… You are used to fancy houses and… I understand if you want to go to your own house.”
“Seb, do you love me?” she asked seriously.
“Of course I do!” he nodded.
“And would it make any difference to you if I lived in a castle or in a tent?” she continued.
“Non.”
“Exactly. I love you, Seb. You!” she touched his chest. “I love you so very much.”
Seb gently kissed her and picked her up. “Let’s get some rest before we go see Maman.”


Later that afternoon, Seb drove them to his mother’s house. It was a small house, just outside of Paris. Sophia straightened her dress and took his hand.
He placed a kiss on her nose. “You look beautiful, Chérie.”

“Sébastien!” his mother opened the door before he had the chance to ring the bell. She hugged him tight and rattled in French.
“Maman. I want you to meet Sophia. Sophia, this is my mother, Michelle.” He smiled.
“Enchanté, Madame.” Sophia extended her hand.
Michelle looked her over and frowned at Seb. “She’s pregnant?”
He nodded. “Oui.”
“You got her pregnant before you married her… Really, Sébastien…” Michelle shook her head.
Seb took Sophia’s hand. “The baby is not mine. Her husband…”
“Quoi? She’s married? Are you completely out of your mind?”
“Stop it, Maman. Let’s go inside and let me explain.” Seb said.

Michelle sat down in one of the chairs in the living room, while Seb and Sophia sat opposite her in the couch. “Well? I’m listening.”
Seb and Sophia told her the whole story. It was quiet afterwards. Michelle just sat there, starring at them, shaking her head.

“I can’t believe this. Mon Dieu, Sébastien… is this the way I raised you? I thought you were smarter. How can you get involved with someone when you are married?” she raised her hand when she saw Seb wanted to interrupt her. “Let me finish! I know you have a good heart and Sophia looks like a nice woman… But have you thought about how people will react to this? Yes, I’ve read the articles. This can ruin your career. Everything you worked for. And all because of a woman. Is that worth it?”

Seb stood up. “Yes, it is. I love Sophia. I love her so much that it hurts. And I will love the baby she’s carrying as much as my own. I have never loved anyone like I love her. And if that is the end of my career, then so be it. I have fought for her. I lost her once and I’m not gonna let that happen again. We are going to be a family and that’s final.”

Sophia swallowed and looked up at the man she loved, her eyes filled with tears.
“I mean it, Chérie.” He said as he crouched in front of her. “I love you. Both of you.” His hand softly stroked her bump.
She buried her head in the crook of his neck and he felt her tears flow. “Je t’aime.” He kept whispering over and over again.

“That’s what I wanted to hear. Welcome to the family, Sophia.” Michelle smiled.
Both Seb and Sophia looked at her.
“It was a test?” Seb asked.
“Oui.”
“Maman…” he shook his head.
“I’ve seen you in love so many times, Seb. But I never heard you talking about someone like you talk about Sophia. I hope you mean it, cause she clearly loves you.” Michelle said.
He nodded. “I do, Maman. I swear.”
“Good.” She stood up. “Now, let’s have dinner.”


Before they went home, Seb took Sophia to the small square in front of the Eifel Tower.
“This is where I always came with Ana. And where I shattered her ashes.” He took her in his arms. “I know she would be happy to see us like this.”
“I think Tom would be happy too.” Sophia looked up at him and saw the love in his eyes. “I love you, Seb.”
“Je t’aime aussi, Sophia.”
His gently kiss made her loose track of time. “Can we go home now?” she whispered.
“Of course, Chérie. I think it’s time to get some rest.” He nodded.
“Or something.” She giggled.

Chapter 67: Making up

The next morning, Lorna appeared from her bedroom after getting some sleep. She saw David had finished clearing up in the kitchen and found him still fast asleep on the couch in the living room, clutching the photo of Justin loosely in his hands. Lorna crept over and gently took the photo once more. David didn't stir.

She looked at the photo again and saw how beautiful his son was. Justin was the spitting image of his dad and Lorna didn't doubt that he would have the same sense of humour as David. She could imagine the pair of them together. She felt stupid for being so mad at him. He hadn't done anything wrong. It wasn't like they had met when David slept with her. David had ever right to be part of his son's life and it wouldn't mean that he was going to love their child any less.

Her morning sickness kicked in and she left the picture on the chair while she raced to the toilet. After about 5 minutes of emptying her stomach, she felt a pair of hands wiping her hair back from her face and resting a cool cloth on her forehead.

“How are you feeling?” David asked concerned.
She shrugged. “Not too bad I suppose.”
“Lorna, about last night…”
“David, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have reacted that way. It's just… It was a shock. That's all.” She said.
David chuckled. “It came as a shock to me too.”
“He looks just like you.”
“I know. He reminds me of me in so many ways as well. You'll love him, Lorna. I promise.” he smiled.

She smiled and stroked the side of David's face. “I love you David. I love you so much that it hurts sometimes.”
“I know you do. I feel the same way about you, Hun.”

They hugged and Lorna held him tightly. “Well we might need to get a bigger place soon.”
“We will?”
“Well we need a spare bedroom and a nursery, don't we?” she asked.
“You mean…?”
“I mean that if you want Justin to be part of our lives then that is what we shall do. He is your son, David and you have every right to see him and help raise him and if there is anything I can do to help then I am happy to do so.” She said.
He held her close. “You’re the best wife a man can ask for you do you know that?”
“Well, I try my best.”
“And you’re going to be a terrific mother as well.” David’s hand softly stroked her bump.
“I hope so…” she whispered.
“Of course you will. Now… How about some making up?” David swept her in his arms and carried a giggling Lorna to their bedroom.


Bridget stood in front of the window and looked at the busy street underneath her.
“What’s wrong, Liebling?” Two strong arms wrapped around her.
She shrugged. “Nothing. It’s just… I don’t know… I have such an awkward feeling. I can’t describe it.”
Urs looked at her, concern written all over his face. “Are you not feeling well?”
“I’m fine. Honestly. It’s not me. It’s like… something is about to happen.” She bit her lip. “I’m scared, Urs.”
“Oh sweetie… I’m sure it’s nothing.” He held her close, softly stroking her hair. “Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?”
“Just hold me.” she held him tight, feeling the warmth of his body. “You feel so good. And you make me feel so safe.”
“I’m glad, Liebling. You know I’ll do anything to protect you.” He kissed her forehead.
She nodded. “I know. Urs…”
“Ja?”
Her hands stroked his chest. “Love me, please.”
He gently picked her up and carried her to the bed. His mouth and hands made her forget about everything. The only thing she was aware off was his love.


That evening David arrived in Paris. He and Carlos decided to have a drink in the bar.
“So Lorna is ok about your son?”
David nodded. “Yes. She yelled at me, got upset, but in the end… I mean… I didn’t cheat on her, so… I’m sure she will love him.”
“Si… She’ll need some time to get used to it. And knowing that her baby won’t be your first… I can imagine it’s not easy to accept.” Carlos said.
“No. But we manage to talk it through and I think we’re ok. We’re gonna look for a house, so that he can come and stay with us from time to time.” David smiled.
Carlos patted his back. “That’s great, amigo.”
“And you know, Carlos… I think those nasty articles did us good. I feel like we have become closer. Better friends. All of us. You and Urs don’t fight anymore.” He smiled.
“I know. I thought about it too. We all need each other. And all that fighting seems so childish. You guys aren’t so bad after all.” Carlos winked.

Chapter 68: When fate hits again…

“The last concert…” Seb sighed.
“Yeah… The tour was over in no time.“ David nodded in agreement, his longer stride leading the group.
The guys had just finished an interview and were leaving the hotel for the sound check. Bridget was walking along with Urs, her arm wrapped securely around his waist, laughing at a private joke. She answered her phone when it rang and froze after saying hello.

Urs stopped when he heard the panic in her voice.
"What? Dr. Patterson, are you sure?" she asked over and over until Urs grabbed her by the shoulders.
"Liebling, what is it?" he asked her and saw the big tears rolling down her face.
"Bridget, what's the matter?" David asked as he approached the two.
She shook her head and put a hand to her mouth. "I think I'm going to be sick," she moaned and then promptly slumped to the floor.

Everyone stood there for a moment, and the faint voice from the phone shook Urs out of his stupor. "Bridget!" he cried as Seb grabbed the phone and Urs picked up Bridget.
"Call the medic!" David yelled to the receptionist as Carlos cleared the decorative pillows from a nearby sofa. Urs carried Bridget over, lying her down gently, her head in his lap, his hands on her face, in her hair.

“Wake up, Liebling. Bitte…” he whispered.
“Her mother died.” Seb’s hands were shaking when he handed Urs’ Bridget’s phone. “They found her in the pond at the institution.”
“Dios! How? When?” Carlos stammered.
“They don’t know. They found her this morning. It might have been…” Seb swallowed. “Suicide.”
Everyone stared up at him as the receptionist came back muttering something about a large traffic accident delaying the medics.

Without saying a word Urs picked her up and carried her to the elevator, they weren't going to wait for the medics in the lobby and Seb followed him, already on the phone with Steve while David had grabbed their gear that they'd left. Carlos helped keep the door open and then punched in the right floor on the lift.

Once in the suite Urs laid Bridget down on the bed and propped her head up with a pillow, he continued to pat her and talk to her, hoping she'd wake up soon.
Seb pulled David aside, "We've got a show tonight, sound check in fifteen minutes and Urs is in no shape to be leaving Bridget. What are we going to do?" Seb asked.
David shrugged and shook his head, "I don't know."
"I honestly don't know." he repeated and Carlos approached them, "Call Sophia, Seb, so that Urs isn't alone while we go to sound check. We can do that without him at least and then we'll figure out the concert tonight."

Seb agreed and went off to call Sophia as the medics arrived into the room escorted by the concierge and followed by Steve.
"I want to know what's going on." It wasn't a question, it was a statement and David filled him in.
"Okay." he replied as he rushed over to Urs, the medics were checking over Bridget and had removed Urs from his hold on her. He stood by the bed, his hands shaking.
"Are you okay Urs?" Steve asked.
"No. God damn it. We'd been talking, laughing at a joke and then the damn phone rang. She took the call and paled in front of me. There was nothing for me to do. Nothing as she just put her hand to her mouth and looked like she was going to throw up. Instead she fainted." Urs felt the words tumble out and cried for Bridget.

The medics managed to revive her with smelling salts and after instructions of plenty of fluids and rest left the room in the same manner they'd come in, quietly and efficiently.
Urs rushed past everyone to get in bed with Bridget, holding her from behind so that his chest was pressed to her back and she curled up beside him. "Urs... please tell me this has been a dream. A nightmare. Please tell me..." she choked out between sobs and Urs kissed the top of her head, her hair, anywhere he could.

"I can't. I can't lie to you, honey." He heard her sniffle and felt his heart tear in two. It hurt him so much to see her in pain, in agony and that there was nothing that he could do to change the situation. He held her as she cried it out and didn't even notice when everyone had slipped out of the room.

The guys left for the sound check now sombre instead of joyful and Steve sat on the lounge chair in the sitting room. He was going to see what Urs wanted to do and then talk to Simon if necessary. The last thing he wanted to do was cancel the last concert of the tour, but if worse came to worse, then he'd do it for Bridget and then for Urs.


An hour later, Urs came out of the bedroom, his eyes sad and worried.
“How is she?” Sophia asked.
“She cried herself to sleep.” He sank down on a chair, his head buried in his hands.
Steve cleared his throat. “Urs, about the concert…”
He sighed. “I can’t leave her, Steve.”
“I’ll stay with her. I’ve gone through it myself recently, so…” Sophia shrugged. “And Bridget would want you to perform.”
Urs nodded. “I know. I need to call Simon first. Maybe he can make arrangements and find out what really happened.”


“Ok, Urs. I’ll see what I can do. What’s her mothers’ name?” Simon asked.
“Helena Mason.”
“He… Helena Mason?” Simon repeated.
Urs frowned. “Yes. Is something wrong?”
“No, it’s just that… I used to know a Helena Mason. Coincidence I guess. Anyway… Try not to worry too much. I’ll arrange everything. And if you need anything, give me a call.”
“Thanks Simon.” Urs nodded.

After he hung up, he looked at Steve. “I’m gonna check on her and then we can go.”
Steve and Sophia watched him as he closed the door behind him.
“He’s pretending.” Steve said. “I know him well enough to see that.”
Sophia nodded. “I’ll arrange that they can use my plane to go home tomorrow. And maybe the others want to go as well…”
“Yeah… The problem is that they have interviews and TV shows…“ Steve shook his head. “It doesn’t matter. I’ll try to reschedule them.”

“I’m ready.” Urs said, quietly closing the door. “She’s still asleep. Will you call me if she needs anything, Sophie?”
“She’ll be fine. Don’t worry.” She smiled.
“Promise me you’ll call me. I need to know that she’s ok. I…” he swallowed.
“I will.” Sophie nodded, before hugging him. “I’ll take good care of her.”

Chapter 69: Brothers

The last concert wasn’t the joyful occasion it should have been. It was clear to everyone that Urs was suffering. He hardly smiled and Seb even saw him brushing away a tear.
David and Carlos looked at each other. They knew they had to do something. And David took his chance when he announced ‘Mama’.

“Ladies and gentlemen. We would like to dedicate this song to the mother of our PA, Bridget. She passed away this morning and we are all grieving. So Mrs Mason… This one is for you.”
Seb squeezed Urs’ shoulder. He felt him tremble and realised how hard this was for him. He knew Urs loved Bridget, but he never realised how much. For the first time in all these years, he felt his friend’s emotions. And it hurt him to see Urs like this.


The last notes died down and Urs rushed off stage. He didn’t even bother to get changed. He just grabbed his stuff and made his way to the car. When he got there, he couldn’t believe his eyes. The three others had the same idea and waited for him.
“Guys…”
“You really think we would let you go through this on your own?” David asked.
“We are amigos. Brothers.” Carlos patted his back. “And Bridget means a lot to all of us.”
“And we are going home with both of you tomorrow.” Seb smiled.
Urs didn’t know what to say. “I…”
“Let’s go.” Steve opened the car door.


Sophia looked up from her book when the guys came in.
“How is she?” Urs asked.
“She woke up a while ago. And we had a good cry together. She doesn’t believe it was suicide. She said her Mum would never do that. Anyway… Our plane leaves at 10h. And Steve rescheduled the interviews, so if anyone wants to come…” Sophie looked at the men.
“We are all coming.” David stated.
Urs shook his head. “You don’t have to. I mean… Seb, this is your hometown. You and Sophia should…”

“Urs, listen to me. Bridget was there for me when Ana died. She was there every time I needed someone to talk to. She helped me to get in touch with Sophia. I care for her. I owe this to her. And you are my friend. I’m going with you to London and that’s final.” Seb looked at Sophia who nodded.
“And I agree.”
“Thanks, guys.” He whispered.
“We better go and pack. And have an early night.” David said. “You know where to find us if you need us.”
Urs hugged all of them and held Sophia just a little longer. “I don’t know how to thank you.”
“You don’t have to. That’s what friends are for.” She kissed him on the cheek. “Go to Bridget.”

Urs quietly sneaked into the bedroom. He undressed himself and got under the covers.
“Urs…” Bridget whispered.
“I’m here, Liebling.” He took her in his arms and held her close. “I’m here.”
“I’m all alone now.” She said softly.
“No, you’re not. You’ve got me. And I’m not going anywhere. I love you, Bridget. I love you so much.” His arms tightened around her.
He felt her tears on his chest. “We’ll get through this, Honey.”


It was a quiet group that arrived in London the next morning. Simon waited for them. He hugged Bridget as soon as she got off the plane. “I’m sorry, Sweetheart. I’m so sorry.”
Urs noticed something different about Simon. He couldn’t quite put his finger to it, but something changed in his behaviour. Maybe Simon was concerned, just like he was.

“I want to see Mum.” Bridget whispered.
“Of course, sweetheart. I hired one of the best morticians. And the funeral is the day after tomorrow. If that’s ok for you…” Simon had his arm around her shoulder and gently led her to the car.
She nodded. “I want white Freesia’s and blue Iris’s. Mum loved them.”
“Anything you want, Sweetie.” Simon answered.
“She didn’t kill herself, Simon. Mum would never do that.” Bridget said, shaking her head.
“They don’t know if it was suicide or an accident. They are looking into it.” Simon said.
“She wouldn’t! Urs, she wouldn’t!” Bridget turned to him and he immediately took her in his arms when he saw her tears.
“I know, honey.” His eyes begged Simon to say the right thing.
“Sweetheart… Your Mum went missing during the night. When they found her the next morning…” Simon hesitated. “She fell and hit her head. She hasn’t suffered.”
“They said she drowned.” Bridget sobbed.
Urs rubbed her back, softly whispering to her.
“Let’s get her home, Simon.” Sophia insisted.
“NO! I want to see, Mum!”
“Calm down, sweetie.” Urs helped her in the car. “We’ll go there if you promise me to stay calm.”
Simon nodded. “We’ll drop the others off first.”


The mortician brought Bridget, Urs and Simon to a small room. Helena lay on the bed, a smile on her lips. She looked so peaceful, almost like she was asleep.
Bridget took her hand. “Oh Mummy… Why?”
Urs watched her as she softly touched her mothers face.
“I think I’m her father, Urs.” Simon said softly.
“You what?” Urs couldn’t believe what he just heard.
The older man nodded. “I don’t want her to know yet. I need to be sure first.”
“But… how?” Urs frowned.

They heard Bridget sob and Urs looked Simon. “I really…”
“Yeah… I’ll bring you home and maybe we can talk then.” Simon nodded.
Urs went over to Bridget and gently hugged her. “Sweetheart…”
“It’s not fair…” she whispered.
“I know, Honey.” He kissed her forehead. “Let’s go home eh? You should get some rest.”

Chapter 70: Support

After Urs had put Bridget in bed, he returned to the living room. “Right. What’s all this about you being her father?”
Simon sighed. “When I was a teenager I was in love with a girl. Helena Mason. She was everything I dreamt of. We were so young, but it felt so right. She was my true love.”

He stood up and walked to the window. “One day she was gone. She left me a letter. Saying that she did this for me. That she didn’t want to hold me back, that she was a nobody… But she wasn’t. God, Urs… She was so beautiful and sweet, caring, smart…” Simon shook his head. “She asked me not to look for her, but I did. I couldn’t let her leave like that. Unfortunately I never found her. It was like she had vanished.”

He turned around. “When you told me the name of Bridget’s mother, I thought it was a coincidence. Until I saw her. And that’s when I realised what it was about Bridget. From the day I hired her, there was something familiar about her. I didn’t know what it was, but…” he sighed. “Seeing Helena again, broke my heart. All these years she had been so close. And I didn’t even know. The dates match, Urs. Bridget is my daughter.”

Urs just sat there, staring at his boss. “Mein Gott…”
“I know. It sounds crazy, but…” Simon shrugged.
“We can’t tell her. Not now. She’s having a hard time as it is.” Urs said.
“Yeah… If I had known, I would have been there. I could have helped her out.” Simon looked at Urs. “I would have supported her.”
“I know.” Urs nodded.
“I eh… I better go now.” Simon slowly walked to the door. “Let me know if there is anything else I can do.”
“I will. Thanks for everything, Simon.” Urs shook his hand.


“David! You’re home!” Lorna almost jumped in his arms.
“Hi cupcake.” He kissed her tenderly. “I missed that.”
“Yeah, me too. How’s Bridget?” she asked.
He sighed. “Devastated! And so is Urs. I’ve never seen him like that. He’s always so… cold. And Bridget… Always in control. And now… I feel so sorry for her.”
“It must be hard. When is the funeral?”
“The day after tomorrow.” David said.
“Ok.” Lorna nodded. “I’m going with you. I guess the others will be there as well?”
“Yeah, I think so. Sweetie?”
“Yes?”
He picked her up. “Can we… go and cuddle a little? I missed you so much.”
“Of course, Babe. I missed you too.” She laughed.


“Querida?”
“Hi, lover boy!” Ulva winked, coming out of the bathroom in her bathrobe.
Carlos swallowed. “Is that for me?”
“What? I just felt like spoiling myself.” She smiled.
“How about spoiling me?” he wiggled his eyebrows.
“You? I don’t know if you deserve it.” She turned her back to him.
Carlos leapt forward and pulled her in his arms, kissing her hungrily. “Maybe I do. Maybe I don’t.”
“I missed you.” She mumbled.
“Good.” He swept her in his arms and carried her to the bedroom. “Show me how much.”


Urs quietly entered the bedroom. Bridget stood in front of the window and starred outside.
“How are you feeling, Liebling?” he asked, putting his arms around her waist.
She shrugged. “I’m ok. Urs… I can’t imagine Mum killing herself.”
“I know. We’ll find out. Don’t worry.” He kissed the top of her head.
“I feel so… I don’t know.” She sighed. “And the others… I should have been more professional.”
Urs turned her around. “Liebling… You are grieving. The others would react exactly the same. And it’s only human.”
“And Simon… I need to call him. Tell him I’ll be back at work after the funeral.” She went on.
“No, you don’t. We are going away for a few days.” He shook his head.
“But…”
“No buts… I insist.” Urs said firmly.
“I guess I don’t have a choice.” She sighed.
Urs tenderly kissed her. “No, you don’t.”


Sophia looked at her father’s picture.
“It brings back memories, doesn’t it?” Seb asked gently.
She nodded. “I miss him. No matter how busy he was, he always made time for me. I just hope I’ll be able to do the same for our son.”
“I’m sure you will, Chérie.” He kissed her forehead. “And I’ll try to be here as much as I can.”
“I’m so glad that you take this so well. I was so scared to loose you. When I saw you at the event… I realised that I loved you. And then I saw you with Giselle and…” she bit her lip.
“I saw the look on your face and I knew you would give in.” Seb grinned. “But I knew you needed time. And Tom just died, so…”

“I loved him, Seb. I really did. I still do. The love I have with you is different and I can't compare. It wouldn't be fair. Not to him and definitely not to you. I just know that you make me happy now. I still miss my father and I wish that Tom hadn't died, but I know that I'm okay with what happened. In the end I love you and I'm with you. We'll have a house full of kids and Bridget will eventually see that she'll be okay too. That she has Urs to rely on and that he'll be her hero when she needs someone to trust.”

"Am I your hero?" Seb asked looking down at Sophia, at the woman he loved with all his heart.
Sophia looked up at Seb, saw the love in his eyes and smiled shyly. "Of course you are." She threw her arms around his neck and buried her nose in his collar, inhaling his cologne, feeling his strength and relishing it.
"That's good, but I don't feel like a hero right now." Seb admitted and shook his head.
"She's your friend, Seb. I know that it hurts you to see others suffer. I've learned that about you, but the best thing we can do is let her grieve." Sophie suggested and Seb agreed.
"Oui, and we'll be there, whatever the funeral arrangements are, we'll be there for her."

Chapter 71: Drawings

“Liebling?” Urs was surprised to see Bridget coming into the living room, wearing a jacket.
“I’m going to the institution to get Mum’s stuff.” She said.
“There’s no rush. I’m sure it can wait.” He looked intently at her.
She shrugged. “I want to get it over with.”
“Ok. I’ll go with you.” He grabbed his keys.
“You don’t have to. I…”
Urs didn’t speak. He gently took her arm and led her outside.


Urs watched her as she quietly put her mothers’ clothes in a suitcase. He wanted to help her but she had denied him to. She needed to do this on her own. He just stood there, leaning against the doorframe.

Bridget sat down on the bed as she cleaned out the nightstand. She softly stroked her mother’s diary. She never read it. Never even peeked in it. And she wasn’t sure if she ever would. She carefully put it in the box next to her, together with a few pictures and books and her mothers favourite perfume.

“I think I have everything.” She said softly, looking around one more time. As she walked to the window, Urs came closer. He saw her shoulders shaking and he took her in his arms. Her soft sobs went straight to his heart. He wished he could take away her pain. He felt so sorry for her. All these years she had looked after her mother. She had always been on her own, she had struggled to pay the bills and never complained.
“It’s gonna be ok, Liebling.” His voice was soft and calming and he felt her body relax.

They left the institution and Bridget said goodbye to the doctors and nurses. They had been so good for her mother.
“Thank you, Dr. Patterson. I know Mum was happy here.”
“She was an amazing woman, Bridget. And although she didn’t tell you, I know she loved you.” He handed her a package. “Part of the therapy was drawing. I thought you would want them. She was very talented.”
“Thank you.” She hugged the package to her chest. “I can’t thank you enough for everything you did for her.”
“It’s our job. We all loved her. Believe me, we have patients that are far worse.” Dr. Patterson shook her and Urs’ hand. “Take good care of her.”
“I will.” He nodded.


Seb sat on the steps by the front door when they got home.
“Bonjour. I just came by to see how you are.” He kissed Bridget on the cheek.
“I’m ok. We just went to the institution to get Mum’s stuff.” She took the package Dr. Patterson had given her and held onto it like it was a treasure.
“Would you mind grabbing a box, Seb?” Urs asked him.
“Non, of course not.” He went to the back of the car and looked at his friend. “Is she ok?”
“I think so. I hope so.” Urs shrugged. “She’s… Hanging in there.”

They watched her as she opened the front door, her shoulders hanging.
“Is there anything I can help with? The funeral or…” Seb asked.
Urs shook his head and grabbed the suitcase. “No, Simon arranged everything.”
“Oh… ok. I just… feel so helpless.” Seb slowly walked up the stairs.
“Believe me, Seb, I know the feeling!” Urs closed the front door behind them. They put everything in the spare bedroom and when they came into the living room, Bridget sat on the couch, tears streaming down her face.

“Liebling…” Urs rushed over and sat next to her, his arm around her shoulders.
“She drew me, Urs. And our house.” She whispered.
He swallowed, looking at the drawings in her lap. “She was good.”
“And I think this is my dad.” Her hands trembled when she handed him the piece of paper. “He looks so familiar.”
Seb sat down on the other side of her and frowned. “Isn’t that…”
Urs shook his head, his eyes pleading.
“You recognise him?” Bridget asked.
“Non… You’re mother made some beautiful drawings.” Seb smiled.
“Yeah…. I didn’t know.” She sighed. “I still can’t believe she’s gone.”

She gathered all the drawings and stood up. “I’m sorry. I need some time alone.”
Both men watched her as she left the room.
“Urs, that drawing…” Seb looked at him.
He nodded. “It’s Simon.”
“But…” Seb frowned.
“It’s a long story. We decided to wait a few days before telling her. She has enough on her mind already.” Urs said.
“Mon Dieu. Simon…” Seb shook his head. “It looks like your boss is going to be your father in law.”
Urs grinned. “I better keep him as a friend.”

Chapter 72: A funeral

The sun was shining brightly on the day of the funeral. Bridget didn’t want to make a big deal out of it. Only the guys with their girlfriends, Simon, Steve and Ingrid were there.

The church was decorated with white Freesia’s and blue Iris’s, just like Bridget had asked. She closed her eyes when she walked in, inhaling the scent.
“You ok?” Urs whispered.
She took a deep shaky breath and squeezed his hand. “Yeah…”
Urs put his arm around her waist and led her to the front row where she sat down between him and Ingrid.

The coffin stood at the front, covered with flowers. Her mothers’ picture smiled at them.
During the ceremony, Bridget held Urs’ hand and kept starring at the picture. She still couldn’t believe her Mum was gone. Urs glanced at her, concerned when she hardly reacted.


When David stood up, she focused on him.
“Bridget, we only met your Mum once. But she made an impression on all of us. She was a very kind woman. I would like to read my favourite poem to honour her.”

He cleared his throat and his voice filled the church.

“Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!”

Bridget broke down in Urs’ arms while Ingrid softly stroked her back. Urs held her tight, softly whispering to her, kissing her hair.

On the second row, Simon blew his nose. Steve glanced at him, surprised to see the tears in his boss’ eyes.
“I knew her.” Simon whispered.
Steve nodded. He knew better then to ask questions.
Sophia dabbed her eyes and clutched Seb’s hand. It was hard for her as well. The memories of her father and Tom came back to her and all Seb could do was be there.


After the ceremony, the small delegation went to the cemetery. Tears ran down Bridget’s cheeks when she laid a flower on the coffin.
“I love you, Mummy.” She kissed the coffin and turned to Urs. He took her in his arms, trying his best to comfort her.

One by one, the guys came forward. After laying a flower on the coffin, they came to Bridget.
“We are all here for you.” Carlos said, giving her a hug. “Anytime.”
Ulva kissed her cheek. “You know how to reach us.”
Bridget nodded. “Thanks.”
David spread his arms and hugged her tight. “You’re not alone, Honey.”
“You can always count on us.” Lorna nodded.

Seb hugged her as well. He didn’t say a word, but he didn’t need to. She knew he was there for her.
“Thanks for everything.” She whispered, looking at Sophia.
“I know what it’s like to loose a parent.” She kissed her on the cheek. “If you need someone to talk to, I’m here.”
“Day or night.” Seb said. “Don’t hesitate to call us or come by.”

“Don’t worry about a thing.” Steve said. “And forget about work for a few days.”
“Yeah… We can manage without you for a while.” Simon nodded. “Bridget, I… I wish I could have spent some time with her.”
“I think you would have liked her.” She said softly.
Simon nodded and put his hands on her shoulders. “Don’t hesitate to call me if you need help, sweetheart.”

Ingrid was the last one to say goodbye. Bridget hugged her tight. “Thank you so much. For everything.”
“She was an amazing woman, Bridge. And I’m glad I knew her. Come by if you want to talk.” Ingrid kissed both her and Urs. “Take good care of her, Urs.”
“I will.” He nodded.

After everyone had left, Bridget looked at Urs. “I need some time for myself. Time to say good bye. Don't wait up. I'll probably go to Ingrid's later. She knew my Mom when she first got sick.”
“I don’t mind waiting.” He said.
“Please, Urs. I need to do this on my own.” She pleaded.
“Ok, Liebling. Give me a call if you want me to pick you up.” He kissed her tenderly.
“I love you, Urs.”
“I love you too.” He slowly walked away, but turned around one more time. He saw her sitting on her knees and he knew she was crying. He wanted to run to her, take her in his arms and comfort her. But he knew she needed this time. So he was gonna give it to her.


Bridget dried her tears and was about to get up when a hand covered her mouth. A sweet smell filled her nose and she began to feel dizzy. A few seconds later, the world turned black.

Chapter 73: Panic

Bridget woke up with a splitting headache. She groaned and tried to move but she couldn’t. When she opened her eyes, she saw she was tied up to a chair.
“So you’re finally awake.”
“Mike…” she whispered. “What is all this?”
“You’re mine, Bridget. We belong together. I love you. And I know you love me too.” He said.
“No, I don’t. I love Urs. Let me go!” she pulled the ropes, but it was useless.
“If I can’t have you, no one can.” He stroked her cheek. “You’re so beautiful. I can’t let him have you. He’s no good for you.”
A sob escaped her. “Please Mike…”
“I’ll take good care of you. I need do to a few things, but I’ll be back soon.” He kissed her cheek and walked out of the room, leaving a crying Bridget behind.


When Urs opened his eyes, he saw he was still alone in bed. And it looked like Bridget hadn’t come home. He got up and checked all the rooms. “Bridget? Are you home?”
There was no sign of her. He took his mobile and dialled her number. It rang but then he got her voicemail. “Liebling, where are you? Please call me.”

And then it hit him. She probably stayed with Ingrid. When she answered the phone, he smiled. “Morning Ingrid. It’s Urs. Is Bridget up yet?”
“Bridget? She’s not here.” Ingrid answered.
He frowned. “She’s not? Then where is she? She told me she was coming to see you last night.”
“I’m sorry, Urs. I haven’t seen her since the funeral.”
“If you do see her or if she calls you… Please let me know.” Urs swallowed.
“Urs, what’s going on?” Ingrid asked.
He sighed. “She didn’t come home last night. I’m gonna call the guys. Maybe they know something.”
“Let me know when she gets home.” Ingrid said.
“Of course.” He nodded.

After he hung up with Ingrid, he called Seb.
“Seb, have you seen Bridget?”
“Bridget? No, I haven’t. Why?” he asked.
“She didn’t come home last night. She said she was going to see Ingrid, but she wasn’t there either. Something happened. I feel it.” his voice was trembling.
“Call the others. Maybe they know something. I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.” Seb hung up.

Urs called the others, but none of them had seen her. He knew something was wrong. She would have called him if she went somewhere else. He paced the living room and ran to the door when the doorbell rang.
“Seb!”
“No news?” Seb asked when he and Sophia came in.
Urs shook his head. “No one knows where she is.”
“I’ll call Simon.” Sophia said.

5 minutes later Carlos, David, Ulva and Lorna were there as well.
“I’m gonna call Stephanie. Maybe she hears something.” David said.
“Stephanie?” Lorna frowned.
“Well yeah… As a reporter she has her sources.” He pulled out his phone and went to the hallway to get some privacy.

“Stephanie Hunter speaking.”
“Hi Stephanie. It’s David.”
“David. Hi. How are you?” she sounded surprised.
“I need your help. Bridget has gone missing. And I was wondering… Maybe you could ask around. Let us know if you hear anything.” David stammered.
“Sure, but… What do you mean with missing?” she asked.
David sighed. “Her mother’s funeral was yesterday. And she didn’t come home after that. She told Urs she was going to see a friend, but she never got there. No one heard of her or saw her… We’re really worried.”
“I can imagine. Ok, I’ll ask around. I’ll let you know if I find something, but I can’t make any promises.” She said.
“I understand. But thanks in advance.” He nodded.
“You’re welcome. Bye.”

“She’ll ask around.” David said as he came back in.
Lorna looked at him, trying to read his mind, but didn’t say a word.
“Maybe you should call the police.” Carlos suggested.
Urs nodded. “Yes. Maybe I should. Or I should go to the cemetery. Maybe I can find something there.”
“I think you better leave that to the police.” Seb handed him the phone. “Call them.”


“I need to go to the bathroom.” Bridget said when Mike came back.
“Ok. But be nice.” He removed the ropes around her ankles and pulled her up. He pushed her through the dark house, her hands still tied up. When they got to the bathroom, he opened the door and removed the ropes. “Five minutes.”

Bridget looked around the room. There was no way she could escape. There was just a small window and he had hammered it shut. “Oh Urs…” she said softly, trying to fight back her tears.


“What do you mean, you can’t do anything?” Urs clenched his fists.
“I’m sorry, Mr Bühler. Miss Mason is an adult. And she isn’t gone for 24 hours yet.” The police officer said.
“I can’t believe this.” Urs shook his head. “They tried to kill her! They threw a Molotov cocktail in her apartment! And then her mother died in very suspicious conditions.”
“Sir…”
“She would never stay out without calling me! Something happened to her!” Urs snapped.
Seb put a hand on his shoulder. “He’s right. It’s not like Bridget.”
The police officer nodded. “Ok. I’ll go and take a look at the cemetery. If you hear anything, anything at all, call me. Don’t do anything on your own! If someone wants to harm her, it can turn into an ugly situation.”


Hours went by without any news. Lorna fell asleep in David’s arms, Ulva and Carlos sat in the couch, close together.
“Can I get you something to eat?” Sophia asked Urs.
He starred out of the window, his hands in his pockets. “No. I’ll eat when she’s back.”
Sophia looked at Seb who walked over to his friend. “Urs, you really should…”
“Who says she is eating? Where is she, Seb? Where the hell is she? Is she alone? Did someone…” He choked on his words.
Seb hugged him. “I’m sure she’s ok. She’s a strong woman.”
“What if they hurt her?” Urs whispered. “I love her so much, Seb, and I feel like I haven’t said it enough.”
“She knows.” Sophia nodded. “And that will pull her through. No matter where she is.”


Simon paced his office. Bridget… missing… It couldn’t be. Not now. Not now that he had just found out she was his daughter. He sighed. From the day he had hired her, she had reminded him of someone. He hadn’t been able to put his finger on it, but now he knew.

Helena… His beautiful high school sweetheart. They had been so happy together. He never understood why she left him. He still had her letter. He kept it in his safe together with her picture.

Simon walked into Bridget’s office. He smiled when he saw her clean desk. Everything was so well organised. Even when she wasn’t there, he found what he needed.
He sat down behind her desk and leaned back in her chair. He prayed she was alright. Wherever she was… He so wanted the chance to tell her that he was her father. And how much they had in common. And how much she looked like her mother. Even though he had never thought of that.
“Please let her be alright…” he whispered.

Chapter 74: To the rescue

“What do you think, my love?” Mike held up a wedding dress.
“What’s this?” Bridget asked.
“Your wedding dress. We are getting married soon.” He smiled.
“What? No! I’m not gonna marry you.” She shook her head.
“Oh yes you are.” He came closer and stroked her face. “I love you, Bridget.”
“I love Urs! Urs! Let me go!” she vigorously pulled her ropes.

Mike took her chin between his fingers. “You will marry me. He’s no good. You hear me!
“Let me go. You’re hurting me!” Tears came to her eyes as he held tighter.
“And I will hurt you even more when you don’t do what I tell you too. Like your mother…” he said.
Bridget gasped. “Mum? What did you…? You killed my mother???”
“She didn’t want to listen to me. She said she didn’t know you. Stupid woman.” He laughed ironically.
“My Mum was sick! How could you…?” Bridget sobbed.
He let go of her and took a step back. “Now… Let’s call Miss Hunter for an exclusive interview. I think it’s about time you tell her how bad the guys really are.”


Stephanie was typing out her article about the flower show. She sighed. A flower show. Talking about taking a step back.
When her phone rang, she was only too happy to answer it. “Stephanie Hunter speaking.”
“Hi Baby. It’s Mike. What would you think about an exclusive interview with Miss Mason?” he asked.
“Excuse me?” she frowned.
“I got her right here. And she can tell you some real juicy stuff. Come over here in an hour and I’ll make sure you’ll be the reporter of the year again.” He smiled.
“Ok. Where do you want to meet?”
Mike gave her the address and after she hung up she immediately called David.


When David’s phone rang, they all looked at him.
“It’s Steph.” He shrugged and picked up. “Hi Steph.”
“I know where Bridget is.” She said.
“What? Where is she?” he asked.
“Mike has her. Mike Young, the one from PR. He wants to see me in an hour for an interview.”
“Oh my God! Give me the address and call the police. We’re on our way!” David yelled.

Urs looked at him. “Bridget? Where is she?”
“Mike Young has her. We need to get over there!” he took his keys and was about to ran out when Lorna stopped him.
“No, David. It’s too dangerous.”
“She’s right.” Ulva nodded.

“I’m not gonna stand here and wait. I need to know if she’s ok.” Urs said.
“Stephanie was gonna call the police, right?” Sophia asked.
David nodded.
“I’m going over there.” Urs stood up and walked to the front door.
“We’re going with you.” Seb said.
“Please be careful.” Lorna said, looking at David.
He kissed her tenderly. “I will.”


The black vans of the police stopped close to the house. Men, all dressed up in black with masks, got out and quietly took their position. They used sign language as they crept up to the house.

The Divo’s watched from the street. The police had stopped them when they arrived, but Urs had begged to be close. He needed to see what was happening. And here they were, hiding behind a black van, only a few metres away from the house.
Urs nervously clutched his hands. “She’s gonna be terrified.”
“They know what they are doing.” Seb reassuringly put a hand on his shoulder.
“Ja, but…” he sighed. “I wish they would allow me to go with them.”
“It’s too dangerous.” Carlos said. “Let them do their job.”

The guys watched how the men in black prepared everything. It seemed to take them forever. When darkness set in, hell was loose. Urs held his breath when the men barged in. They heard shouting and it looked like they were fighting.
“Let her be ok. Please let her be ok.” Urs didn’t realise he said those words out loud, until David patted his back.

When they brought out Mike, he looked at Urs. “She’s mine! She’ll always be mine.”
Seb saw him clenching his fists. “Don’t do anything stupid now. He’s not worth it.”
The minute Bridget came out, the world stopped. Urs ran to her, took her in his arms and crushed her to his chest. “Are you ok? Did he hurt you?”
He looked at her. Her eyes were red from crying and the dark circles underneath, showed that she hadn’t slept.
She shook her head and clung to him, softly sobbing.
“It’s alright, Liebling. I’m here. It’s over.” He whispered.
“He killed my Mum…” she choked out.
“Mein Gott…” Urs swallowed.

He felt her knees give in and picked her up.
“Sir, we would like to take her to the hospital to check her out. Just to be sure.” A medic said.
Urs nodded, but Bridget shook her head. “No, I’m fine.”
“I’m going with you, Liebling.” Urs carried her to the ambulance and held her tight till they got to the hospital. He wasn’t ready to let her go. He needed to feel her, to make sure she was alright.