Chapter 90: A family

By the time Peter got back with David, Lorna sat on the couch. She ran to David and buried herself in his arms. “I’m such a terrible mother.”
“Oh Babe…” he held her tight. “No, you’re not. You’re just nervous and hormonal…”
“I can’t even take care of your son.” She sniffled. “And now you had an accident because of me and…
David hobbled to the couch. He pulled her on his lap. “Stop it. You will be a great mother and Justin will love you. You two need some time to get used to each other. And the accident was my own fault.”
“Are you ok? What happened? Are you hurt?” she looked him over.
“I drove to fast and hit a lamppost. I broke a toe. Nothing serious.” He shrugged.


Barbra brought Justin over and handed him to David.
“Daddy…” he smiled and touched David’s face.
“Hi little man.” David stroked his cheek. “Does auntie Lorna get a kiss from you?” he pointed at her.
Justin looked thoughfull, but then he grinned and rewarded Lorna with a wet kiss. “Lolo!” he shrieked.
David smiled at his wife. “See? He loves you.”

Later that evening, David and Lorna gave Justin a bath and put him in bed. Barbra made them a nice dinner and when they had left to the hotel, the couple decided to go to bed.
“I’m so tired.” Lorna sighed.
“I know, Cupcake. But I’m here now.” He kissed her tenderly before pulling her close. “You want to tell me what happened?”
“I guess I was nervous about meeting him and Steph without you. And the minute Steph left, he began to cry and couldn’t calm him down.” She said softly.
“Children feel it when you are nervous.” David said.
“I know. God, I can’t believe it! I mean... I’m a teacher! I know how to handle kids. And then your son comes over and I freak out.”

David stroked her back. “It’s ok. I know it’s hard for you. But I want you to know that I love you and our baby very much. And nothing will change that. Yes, Justin and Steph will be around, but we are a family, sweetie. You, me and our little girl.”
“I love you, David.” She whispered.
“I love you too, Babe.”
Lorna drifted off, feeling much better now that she was back in the arms of her husband.


David and Lorna spend the next few days with Justin. The little boy was happy and Lorna was able to relax. By the time Steph picked him up again, she was very fond of the boy.

Lorna drove David to the airport.
“The guys are gonna make fun of me. I hust know it.“ he muttered as he hobbled to passport control.
“Well, you always tease them, so…” she winked.
“I’ll get back at them.” He grinned.
Lorna rolled her eyes. This was the man she had fallen in love with. The crazy David. “I love you.” She whispered as she hugged him.
“I love you too, cupcake.” His tender kiss made her melt. “You take good care of our little girl.”
“I will.” She nodded.
“And I’ll be back soon.” He gave her a last kiss and waved as he walked through customs.


“Are you ok, Querida? You sound a little… distracted.” Carlos said.
“Yeah, I’m ok.” Ulva sighed. “I’m just really tired. Last weekend was exhausting. And I think I overdid it on the cake cause my stomach is protesting.”
“Why don’t you come over for a little visit? You are free next weekend, si?” Carlos asked.
Ulva nodded. “Yes, I am.”
“I’ll book you a ticket. It’s about time I see you again. I miss you.”
“I miss you too, Carlos.” She sighed.
“Querida?”
“Yes?”
“Te quiero…” he said softly.
“I love you too, Carlos.” Ulva smiled.
“I’ll call you tomorrow. I’m going to bed now.”
“Ok. Bye Carlos.”
“Bye Amor.”

Chapter 91: Humour

David hobbled into the studio. It was quiet. Too quiet. He didn’t hear or see the guys anywhere. When he came to the lounge he found an envelop with his name. Inside was a card.

“Congratulations! You broke the most macho part of your body!”

“Very funny, guys!” he yelled.
He heard them snigger behind the door and one by one they came in.
“You broke a toe? How can you break a toe?” Carlos asked.
“Just a toe? Pinky toe? Poor thing.” Seb shook his head.
Urs hugged him. “You ok?”
“Yeah... I’m fine.” David looked at them. “Yes, I broke a toe. Is that so funny?”
“Well, you have to admit that it is funny.” Carlos said. “Normal people break an arm or a leg. But not the American.”
“Yeah, yeah… Can we get to work now?” David sighed.
Seb nodded. “Oui. There is still a lot that needs to be done.”


Later that afternoon, David fell asleep on the couch. When Carlos and Seb came in, they looked at each other.
“You think we should…” Carlos started.
Seb nodded. “Oui. He’s always the one who has a go at us.”

Half an hour later they heard a curse from the lounge. Carlos and Seb looked at each other and grinned.
“What have you done now?” Urs frowned.
“Izambard!” David yelled. “I know you did this!”

Urs peeked around the door and started laughing. There was a huge balloon with ‘get well’ attached to David’s foot.
“Will you help me, please?” David sighed. “He’ll pay for this. I swear…”
“Don’t hurt your little toe, Davey.” Carlos grinned.
“Oh you…”
The four of them looked at each other and all bursted out laughing.

“I guess I desserved it for all the pranks I pulled on you guys.” David laughed.
“We couldn’t resist.” Seb giggled.
“You have to admit it was funny.” Urs smiled.
Carlos nodded. “Si. And I took a picture to post on the site.”
“You what???” David looked at him. “I’m warning you, Marin…” He limped after him. “Give me that camera!”

Seb and Urs looked at each other and Urs put an arm around his friends’ shoulders. “At least we are friends after all these years.”
Seb nodded. “Oui. You should thank your wife for that. She changed us, Urs.”
He smiled. “I know. And that’s one of the reasons why I love her.”


On Friday evening, Ulva arrived. Carlos went to pick her up at the airport and smiled when he saw her coming through customs.
“Carlos!” she flung herself in his arms.
“Querida. I missed you.” He whispered in her hair.
“I missed you too.” She looked up at him and saw the love in his eyes.
The gentle kiss he gave her, made her heart jump up.
“Let’s go. I have a car waiting.” Carlos picked up her suitcase and took her hand as the walked out.

They spend the weekend catching up. They walked through the city, went out to lunch and dinner and spend some quality time together. And both of them realised that their love had only become stronger over the years.

Carlos had noticed that Ulva was a little quiet and distracted but when he asked her about it, she just shrugged and said she was happy to be with him.
When he drove her to the airport on Sunday night, she didn’t say a word all through the drive. She checked in and he walked her to passport control.

“Carlos… I’m late.”
He looked at his wacth. “No, querida. We are early.”
Ulva rolled her eyes and starred at him.
Carlos shrugged. “What?”
“I’m… late…” she put a hand on her belly.
Carlos looked at her, to her stomach and back in her eyes. His jaw dropped. “You…”
Ulva laughed and nodded.

He pointed at her stomach, then at her and then at himself, as if he couldn’t believe it.
“Dios!” He picked her up. ”I’m going to be a daddy?”
“Yes…” she whispered.
“Querida! That’s amazing!” he dropped on his knees. “Marry me.”
“For God’s sake! Get up!” she shook her head. “No, Carlos. I’m not marrying you. I don’t want history to repeat itself. I will marry you. One day. But not now. And not because I’m pregnant.”
He opened his mouth, but she put her hand to it. “I will marry you because I love you. One day.”
“Ok.” He kissed her tenderly. “I’ll keep you to it.”
“I better go now.” She sighed.
“Take care of yourself, Querida. I will be home soon.” Carlos gave her a last passionate kiss and watched her till she was gone. He kept smiling all the way back to his flat. He was gonna be a dad.

Chapter 92: Home again

Early December, they guys said goodbye. David and Carlos were going to London, Seb was flying to New York for the birth of their son and Urs was off to Switzerland. Bridget was already there. She left 2 weeks earlier, because she wanted to get some decorations for Christmas.

Urs smiled when he saw Bridget in the arrival hall. Her bump was showing and she had that typical pregnancy glow over her.
He dropped his suitcase and hugged her. “God, I missed you.”
“I missed you too.” She smiled, looking up at him and he saw the love in her eyes.
“Let’s go home.” With his arm firmly around her waist, they walked to the parking lot.

As soon as the door of the cabin was closed, Urs pulled her in his arms and kissed her hungrily. Their jackets lay on the floor in not time, quickly follwed by their sweaters. They barely made it to the couch in the lounge.
After a while, Urs looked up and grinned. “Now now, Mrs Bühler… Look at the mess you made.”
“Me?” she playfully punched his arm. “Be nice, Mr Bühler, or no cookies for you.”
“You made cookies?” the childish look in his eyes made her smile.
“Yes. Your mother gave me her recipe.”
He jumped off the couch and put on his boxers, before racing to the kitchen. “Liebling? Where are they?”

Bridget laughed and put on his shirt before she went after him. She opened the cupboard and stood on her toes to reach for the box. Urs groaned and took the box, placed it on the table and kissed her. “Let’s keep these for later. I think I’m more hungry for you.”
He gently picked her up and carried her upstairs.


Seb took a cab home. He looked outside and shivered. He didn’t really like New York. There was nothing of the cosiness of Paris. He missed the river Seine with the small stalls where artists tried to sell their paintings. He missed going for a coffee in the morning in one of the little cafés. He couldn’t wait to get back to Paris!
Sophia had been determined to give birth to her child in New York, because she wanted him to be an American like her and Tom. So it could take them a while before they could go home.

Seb sighed. He loved Sophia so much, but sometimes he felt like he always had to work on their relationship and always had to make compromises.
And when he looked at the others, it seemed to be so easy. Ok, everyone had their ups and downs, but he never heard them complain.

The cab stopped in front of the house and Seb paid the driver. He quickly took his suitcase and opened the front door.
“Chérie?”
“Kitchen!” she yelled.
Snowflake came running to him and he picked her up. “How’s ma petite?”
He was rewarded with a wet kiss and laughed as he walked to the kitchen.

Sophia turned around when he came in. “Hey you.”
“Bonsoir. Wow, you are big.” He teased.
“Yeah, yeah…rub it in.” she gently kissed him. “I’m glad you’re here.”
“Me too. How are you feeling?” he caressed her belly.
“Good. He’s moving around a lot. I went to see the doctor this morning and he says it can be for every day.” She smiled.
Seb shrugged. “Well, I’m home now. So… I guess we are raedy.”
“Yes, we are. Seb…” she hesitated.
“Oui?”
“I missed you.” Her shining eyes told him what he needed to know.
“I missed you too, Chérie.” He took her hand. “Let’s have an early night.”


Lorna stroked David’s chest. “Maybe we can invite Steph and Justin to celebrate Christmas or New Year with us.”
“Are you sure?” David asked.
She nodded. “Yeah… I think that would be fun.”
“I love you, Lorna.” He smiled.
“I missed you so much.” She whispered.
“Me too, Cupcake. I’m really happy to be home. And tomorrow I’m gonna start on the nursery.”
“You?” she frowned.
“I am an excellent painter.” He said. “Trust me.”
“Yeah… I’ll better keep an eye on you, Mr Miller.”
He kissed her. “Tomorrow, Babe. Tomorrow.”


“What do you want to do for Christmas? We could go to Spain, if you like. Or we could go and see your parents.” Carlos suggested.
“Actually… I would love to stay here if you don’t mind. Just the two of us. It’s the first Christmas that we are together and the last one we’ll be alone.” Ulva put her hand on her belly.
He nodded. “Si. Next year our little one will be running around.”
“He won’t be running yet.” She smiled. “But it will be nice. Children and Christmas is always so much fun.”
“I still can’t believe we are having a baby.” Carlos pulled her close. “It’s amazing.”
“I just hope everything turns out well.” Ulva lowered her eyes.
“Of course it will. Don’t you worry about a thing. And I will take good care of you.” He kissed her gently. “Let’s go to bed. It’s already late.”

Chapter 93: Baby calling

Seb and Sophia had dinner in a fancy restaurant. Sophia was eating a salad, while Seb enjoyed his frog legs.
“I can’t believe you’re eating that.” She shook her head.
“They are delicious!” he said. “If only they would bring me my wine.”
“A glass of wine would be so nice. But no… On top of being fat as an elephant, having indigestions, sleepless nights, not being able to see your own feet… you can’t have alcohol.” Sophia sighed.
“It will be worth it, Chérie.” Seb kissed her hand.

The waitress arrived with the wine and when she was about to put in on the table, someone pushed her and the wine dropped on Sophia. She couldn’t jump up and the wall was behind her, so she ended up soaking wet.
“I’m so sorry!” the waitress apologised.
“It’s ok.” Sophia shuffled out of her chair, but just as she stood up, a contraction hit her and she bend over and breathed hard.

“Chérie!” Seb panicked.
“Oh God… It’s coming…” she whispered.
“Ok… ok…” Seb looked around. “The car! We have to get you to the car!” he pulled her arm and tried to drag her through the restaurant.
“Snookums… Relax. The baby won’t be here just yet. It could take hours. And my coat and purse are still at the table. Plus you haven’t paid or left a tip for the waitress.” Sophia said calmly.
Seb nodded and sat down on a free chair. “Just give me a minute.”

“For God’s sake…” Sophia hobbled back to her table, grabbed her coat and purse, left a tip and went to pay the bill. She went to the restroom to get cleaned up and when she came back to Seb, he looked pale as a sheet.
“Come on, Izambard. I’ll drive.” She said.
“I’m ok…” he whispered.
Sophia shook her head and shuffled to the car. Another contraction hit her and she leaned on the car to catch her breath.
Seb helped her in the car. “How do I get to the hospital?”
“We’re going home first. I need my bad and stuff.”
“But…”
“Seb… It will be hours! Just move!” she said.

When they came home, Sophia was breathing fast.
“Chérie… I think we need to go to the hospital.” Seb bit his lip.
“Yeah yeah… Just let me get changed. You put my bag in the car.” She instructed.
When Seb got to the bathroom, Sophia heavily leaned on the sink.
“How far apart are the contractions?” he asked, softly rubbing her back.
“Five minutes. I better call the doctor.”

Doctor Morris instructed Sophia to come to the hospital immediately.
By the time they got there, Seb was a mess. They installed Sophia in one of the wards and a nurse looked worried at Seb. “Are you ok, sir?”
“I’m… Fine…” he said, trying to catch his breath.
“I better give you some oxygen. It looks like you are hyperventilating.” The nurse said.

In the meantime, Doctor Morris examined Sophia. “You’re about 7 centimeters dialated. We’ll place the contraction monitor on you and you can wakl around a bit if you look.”
Steph nodded. “That would be great.”

The nurse attached the monitor and helped Sophia off the bed. She walked around the room in slow steps. Seb came off the oxygen and walked beside her, softly singing to her. The contractions became stronger and Sophia became more and more annoyed with him.
“Stop it, Seb. Please shut up!” she hissed.
“I thought it would calm you down.” He said.
“No, it doesn’t!”

After two hours, the nurses go ther back in bed and checked her once more.
“I’m sorry, Sophia. You’re still at 7 centimetres.”
“It can’t be…” she mumbled.
“It’s ok, Chérie.” Seb said, taking her hand.
"What do you mean it's okay? You aren't the one who is in labour and going through pain! You just get to sit by the bed and hold my hand, sing to me and tell me it's going to be okay. Well untill you are in my position and having to deal with these contractions that feel as if you have to push a watermelon out then just shut up and say nothing!" Sophia fumed.

Seb tried hard not to laugh.
"Are you laughing? You little..." Sophia broke off and began to pant through another contraction. They were getting longer and making her feel as if she was being broken in two
Seb grabbed her hand and began to rub it gently. "It'll be okay ma petite. Just breathe slowly. One, two, three and breathe." Seb repeated over and over so that Sophia glared at him and huffed through the contraction

When it was finally over, Sophia let out a shaky breath and swallowed slowly. "I can't do this Seb. I can't push through this. I'm so tired already. So tired." She whispered with sad eyes and felt so desperate to be out of the torturous pains that were wracking her body

Seb was speechless for a moment and lifted up her hand to kiss it gently. "You are the strongest woman I know, Chérie. You have it in you to push out our son so we can love him like two parents should. I'll be by your side the entire time and I'm feeling every twinge and ache you are and it hurts me to see you in pain." Seb whispered and let the tears fall from his eyes.

"That was so romantic" the nurse sighed as she showed herself from behind the curtain. "I'm sorry to have evesdropped but that has to be one of the most romantic things I've heard. I hate to interrupt, but I do have to check the little mother. You sure are lucky, Mrs. Brady, to have such a loving husband." The nurse flashed a smile and began to check the vital signs of both mother and baby

Sophie felt another contraction and couldn't stop the moan of pain that came from within and looked into Seb's green eyes to gather the strength to keep breathing and making it through the contraction. She didn't hear the nurse's tisk tisk or see the look of suprise when the contraction ebbed off and she was reading the monitor for the baby's heartbeat.

Chapter 94: A new life

The nurse looked at the numbers again and knew that the baby was going through distress since his heartbeat hadn't regulated after the contraction and since Mrs. Brady's contractions were now at every two minutes lasting just over 48 seconds he wasn't getting enough time to rest.

Armed with that news she paged the Dr. and informed him of the latest update. He assessed the lateste information and stepped into the room just as Sophia was beginning to relax after the last contraction.
"How you doing Sophia?" he asked as he began to review the heart monitor and kept a watchful eye for the next contraction
"I've been better Doc. This baby seems to want out." She tried to smile but another contraction gripped her and she began to pant in short breaths to make it through the spasm.
"So I see." He joked and frowned over the chart. The baby's heartbeat wasn't picking up, instead, after every contraction his hearbeat seemed to drop a bit. Worried he looked up and saw Seb studying him intently

"I'm a bit worried about the baby, Sophia. His heartbeat drops after every contraction and it's not picking up. It's what's called fetal distress and what we usually try to do is get the baby out of there as soon as possible."
"Does this mean a C-section Doctor?" Seb asked and gripped Sophie's hand tightly.
"I hate to jump there, but if he doesn't get his heartbeat back up into the 120 seconds then yes, a C-section would be in his best interest. We'll give it another fifteen minutes or so. I don't want to risk losing him." The doctor responded solmenly and Sophie nodded.
"Whatever is best for my son. I just need him alive and healthy. I can't loose him too." Sophia chocked and let out a shaky breath as another contraction hit.

"Okay. I want an internal heart monitor in and then we'll see what that says. My best guess would be he's got the umbilical cord tied around his neck, which would be causing the distress." The doctor reassured Sophie and Seb with that last bit of information and left the room while the nurse inserted an internal fetal heart monitor.

Within minutes they had a more accurate reading of the baby's heartbeat and the doctor was back to study the latest information and make a more informed descision.
"Mrs. Brady, I think it's in the best interest of your son that he be born now. His heart rate isn't increasing it's falling with each contraction and I'm afraid that if we wait any longer it'll be harder for him." The doctor was serious as he spoke to them both and Sophia was the one who squeezed Seb's hand as another contraction hit and when she was finally able to responded she just nodded her head.
"Okay doctor." she whispered and was soon whisked away by the nursing staff to the Operating Room.

Seb was shown into a bathroom and given green scrubs to change into so that he could join Sophie in the OR. He hurried him himself, he needed to be with her. His heart was beating so fast and his hands were trembling.
“She’ll be fine, Mr Izambard.” One of the nurses smiled. “She’s in good hands.”
He nodded and they brought him to Sophia.

Seb sat down and gripped her hand. “I’m here, Chérie.”
“I’m scared.” She whispered. “I don’t want to loose him, Seb…”
“You’ll be fine. Both of you. And I’m not going anywhere. We’ll go through this together.” He squeezed her hand.

The doctor came in and smiled at her. “Let’s get your son.”
Sophia held onto Seb’s hand and kept looking at him, her eyes full of fear. Seb smiled, trying to reassure her.
“Here we go…” she heard the doctor say after a few minutes.
“He’s not crying.” She whispered.

When the baby’s crying filled the room a few seconds later, Sophia finally allowed her tears to fall.
A few minutes later, the doctor handed her the little boy. “Congratulations, Mrs. Brady. You have a beautiful and healthy son.”

She looked at the little boy, tears rolling down her cheeks. “He’s so beautiful.”
Seb kissed her forehead, allowing his own tears to fall. “Yes, he is.”
“Have you thought of a name?” the nurse asked.
Sophia nodded. “Christian Thomas Edward Brady.”
The boy opened his eyes and looked at her, his green eyes so much like his father. “You like that name?” she whispered.
His small yawn made her smile and she looked at Seb. “Are you ok with the name?”
He nodded, looking lovingly at her. “I love it.”

"Thank you Seb. Thank you for being with me, for putting up with me and my baggage. I want Christian to be our son. Even if..." Sophie let her voice trail off as she looked down at her son.
He was wiggling around and the love she had, seemed to multiply all by itself. All the work of labour, the scare of almost losing her son and then the ultimate joy in being able to hold him as the man she loved stood next to her, willing to be a part of it in all ways that counted. She couldn't help it as the tears that rolled down her cheeks began to fall and began wetting the little blue blanket.

"Oh ma petite. Why are you crying?" Seb asked as he used his thumb to wipe the tears from her cheeks. The concern in his voice only had Sophie crying more.
"You love me. It's your love and all that you do for me. Thank you Seb. I love you more and more each day." Sophie admitted as she gazed up at the man that she'd taken as her friend and lover.

At that moment Christian let out a hearty wail and the nurse approached the family. "I believe he's hungry, Mrs. Brady. Do you want to try breastfeeding now?" she asked as Seb looked on.
For a moment Sophie felt her cheeks grow red. "Yes. I'd love to do that." She admitted and Seb kissed her forehead gently. "Chérie, I'm gonna make all those phone calls to all those people that are going to want to know that Christian's been born."
As Seb walked out of the room Sophie understood his position and longed for him to ask the question she wanted to hear. For the first time she realized that she wanted Seb to propose, to belong to him in all ways possible, to slip his ring on her finger and hear him say that he would love, honour and cherish her for all eternity.

Chapter 95: Fatherly love

3 days later, Seb brought his family home. He smiled when he opened the door. “Welcome home, Chérie.”
Snowflake barked happily when she recognised her boss and Sophia smiled at her. “Hi sweetie. I brought you a little playmate.”
She sat down on the couch with Christian in her arms and Seb picked up Snowflake. He held her close to the baby and let her sniff for a while.
She began to wiggle and Seb put her back on the ground. “She’ll get used to him.”
“Yeah… I better put Christian in his crib.”
“And you should get some rest yourself.” Seb smiled.
Sophia nodded. “I’m a bit tired.”
"Take a bath and then get into bed. I don't want you overdoing yourself now." Seb kissed her forehead.
“You want to put him in his crib?” she asked.
“I would love too.” Seb nodded, carefully taking over the little boy.

When he heard the bedroom door close he carried Christian to his nursery. "Well Christian, here you are. This is your room here in New York. Your mummy loves you very much, and I love you too. I promise to take care of you and your mummy. Do you think she's ready for me to ask her a very important question?"

He held Christian in his arms and was in awe as the little boy stared up at him with big green eyes. He was more alert than the books had said a newborn would be, and he had no doubt in his mind that he was carrying a very intelligent little boy. He sat down in the rocking chair and began to rock back and forth.

"You see Christian, your mum loved your daddy very much and he would have loved you if he'd known about you. I also know she loves me. You think it's time for me to ask her to marry me?"
Christian yawned and stretched out his little body and began to close his eyes. Seb smiled and nodded.

"You're right. I should be prepared and when the moment is right I'll ask." He began to hum a lullaby his mother had sang to him and watched in amazement as the tiny baby fell asleep in his arms. When he was sure the baby was fine he laid him down in the crib and then turned on the monitor next to the crib.

"Sleep tight little one." he whispered and walked out of the room. In the hallway he thought about Sophia and how he wanted her to be his. To be his wife and he knew that he couldn't rush her, but he had forty days to plan the proposal. He wanted to be able to make love to her for the first time after Christian with an engagement ring on her finger.

With that in mind he walked into the kitchen to fix her a snack. Christian would be down for another hour before he'd want to feed again. They had to take advantage of these peaceful moments because he knew that they wouldn't always have this peace in their home.

Chapter 96: Christmas in Switzerland

2 days before Christmas, Urs went to pick up Simon at the airport. On the way home, they talked about Il Divo and Bridget’s job.
“I really want her to stay the groups PA, but if you two are living here…” Simon shrugged. “So I was thinking of making her tour manager instead.”
“Sounds good.” Urs nodded. “But it won’t be next tour. God, Simon… I still can’t believe you make us go on tour just before my child gets born.”
“Urs, you know that the tour was planned before you two even got together.”
Urs sighed. “Ja, I know. I’m just scared that something might happen when I’m gone or that I won’t be on time.”
“Sophia is kind enough to lend us her plane. You guys will travel privately for once. So if anything happens, you can go home right away.” Simon said.
“Let’s just hope it’s not necessary.” Urs parked the car in front of the cabin.

“Dad!” Bridget hugged Simon.
“Hello sweetheart. How are you?” he looked at her. “You look great. And I see my grandchild is growing nicely.” He winked.
“We went for a scan this morning. And everything is well.” She smiled.
“So is it a boy or a girl?” Simon asked.
Urs hung up their coats. “We want it to be a surprise. We don’t even know it ourselves.”


On Christmas’ Eve, Urs, Bridget and Simon celebrated with the Bühler family. After dinner gifts were exchanged.
Simon handed Bridget a little box. She gasped when she opened it. Inside was a white golden locket.



“I bought it for your mother a long time ago, but I never had the chance to give it to her.” He smiled at her. “Open it, sweetheart.”
Tears sprung to Bridget’s eyes when she opened it. On one side was was a picture of her mother and Simon at the high school prom. And on the other side was Urs and Bridget’s wedding picture. “Maybe you can give it to your daughter one day.”
“Dad…” she whispered.
“You like it?”
She nodded, not able to say anyhting. But then she buried herself in his arms. “It’s not fair. We were so close to you. You and Mum should have been together.”
“I know, sweetheart.” Simon softly stroked her back. “But at least we know that you are my daughter now and nothing can change that.”

Urs’ mother smiled at her son who was swallowing hard to keep his tears in. She was so happy that he had found such an amazing wife. And soon they would have a baby, the ultimate gift for their love.


“I have a gift for you as well, Liebling.” Urs handed Bridget a large package.
“Oh Urs… You shouldn’t have.”
He shrugged. “I hope you’ll like it.”

Bridget unwrapped her present and when the paper was gone, she couldn’t believe her eyes. Urs had framed one of her mother’s paintings.



“I thought we could put it in the nursery.” He said softly.
Bridget nodded, her bottom lip trembling. “It’s so beautiful.” She whispered.

Simon looked at the painting. “Is that you?”
She nodded. “Yeah… It’s at my grandmothers’ house. Mum always told me that when we came there, I ran into the garden to sniff the flowers.” She smiled through her tears. “It’s my favourite painting.”

“It’s beautiful.” Maria smiled at her daughter-in-law.
“Thank you.” Bridget hugged Urs. “Thank you so much.”
“You’re very welcome.” He kissed her forehead.

Chapter 97: Presents

David opened the door, smiling widely. “Hi Steph! Hello Justin.”
“Daddy!” the boy grinned.
“Hi David.” Steph handed Justin to him.
“Hi little fellow! Wow, you’re getting big!” David smiled.

The minute he put him back on the ground, the boy ran to the living room. He saw the Christmas tree with the shinny lights and grabbed the popcorn string that David had strung around the tree.
Lorna grabbed him. “Hey you… You can have some later.”
Justin gave her a wet kiss. “Lolo!”

Steph smiled at her. “Hi Lorna. Thanks for having us.”
“You’re welcome.” She nodded.
When Steph saw the pile of neatly wrapped gifts, she felt bad. She only had one little gift for each of them. One for David, one for Lorna and one for Justin.
David follwed her gaze and smiled at her. “I hope you don’t mind that I spoil him a little.”
“No, but… I don’t have that many…” she stammered.
“We didn’t ask you over to get a gift, Steph.” He squeezed her shoulder.
“I know, but…”
“It’s ok, really.” He reassured her.

“Steph, would you like to give me a hand in the kitchen?” Lorna asked.
“Sure. If David doesn’t mind looking after Justin…”
“Of course not! Come on, little fellow… Let’s play!” David dropped on his knees. “How about a puzzle?”

Lorna handed Steph some potatoes. “Can you peel them? I’ll chop the vegetables.”
“Sure.”
“So Steph…” *chop chop* “Are you seeing someone?” Lorna asked.
Steph shook her head. “No, I’m not.”
*chop chop* “So, there is no man in your life?” Lorna continued.
“Other then Justin? No, there isn’t.”
“What about David?” *chop chop*
Steph sighed. “David? What about him?”
“You know what I mean. Are you planning to win him back?” Lorna looked at her.
“He was never mine to start with. It was a one night stand, Lorna. I like David and he’s the father of my child, but that’s it.” Steph said exasperated.
“Good. I’m glad to hear it.”


When the girls came back from the kitchen, David was still on his knees, building a castle for Justin.
“How about we give the presents now?” he suggested. “Otherwise Justin will be too tired.”
“Good idea.” Steph nodded.
“Great!” David jumped up and took a large package from under the tree. “Look what Santa brought for you, Justin.”
The little boy smiled happily and immediately began to tear off the paper. “Horsie!!!” he yelled when he discovered the wooden carved rocking horse.



Steph helped him to climb onto it and held him while he moved. “Thank you.” She mouthed.
David winked and beamed when he saw his son so happy.

“And this is for you, my love.” He handed Lorna a large box.
“Thanks, Babe.” She kissed him lighly and unwrapped her present. “A playstation… Wow… That’s nice.”
“Yeah… I thought so too.” He grinned when he saw she was trying to look pleased. “Go on, open it. You really think I would give the love of my life a playstation?”
Lorna opened the box and smiled when she saw all the picture frames. “Oh David…”
“To put in the first pics of our daughter.” He handed her another box. “And a little present just for you.”
“David! You’re crazy!” she hugged him as she discovered the sapphire necklace.
“Yeah… Crazy about you.”



“Justin has a gift for his Mummy as well, haven’t you?” he gave the little boy a small box and he gave it to Steph.
“Thanks, sweetie.” She let him unwrap it and smiled happily when she found the webcam. “This is so great.”
“Now can keep in touch with Justin and see him if you have to go oversees again.” Lorna said.
“Thanks. Both of you.” Steph nodded.

“And I have a little something too.” David gave her another gift.
“Thanks.” She smiled, but shook her head when she discovered the keys to a car.
“Steph, before you get upset at the car, let me explain. I just want to know that wherever you take Justin, he's as safe as he can be. It's my way of taking care of Justin when I'm not around and it gives me peace of mind." David said seriously.

Steph stared at the keys in the box. They were to a BMW and she felt her heart race. "David. This is too much. The web cam I can understand, but this?" She held the keys in her hand and looked at him, so much like a child wanting her to say yes. Even Lorna was nodding her head.
"My car has been giving me problems." she began again and watched the smile light up on David's face. “Ok, I’ll accept it, but I’ll find a way to repay your generosity.”
“Don’t even think about it!” he smiled.

“I got something for you too, David.” Lorna handed him a square box.
“Hmm… It’s not a playstation.” He joked, but got quiet when he discovered the watch with an inscription.
D, Time will never part us for too long. Always L. xoxo

He kissed her tenderly. “Thank you, my love.”
“You’re welcome.” She smiled.


Steph could hardly keep Justin in his chair during dinner, so in the end she gave up and let him run around. He raced through the place, pulling the dog with him that Steph had bought him.



“He’s so cute.” Lorna smiled.
“Yeah… I can already see him running around with his little sister.” David said.
Steph swallowed. She loved her son so much, and she didn’t know if she could handle seeing him in the Miller family, with their kids.

Eventually Justin fell asleep on the carpet, close to his horse, his teddy bear in his arm, his hand resting on the dog.
“I better get him home.” Steph whispered.
“It’s no problem if you want to leave him here.” David said.
“That’s very kind, but I’d rather take him with me.” She collected his toys and gifts, and David picked up Justin to carry him to the car.

“Thanks, Lorna, for a lovely evening and all the gifts.” Steph gave her a quick hug.
“You’re welcome.”
David carefully put Justin the car and quietly closed the door.
Steph hugged him. “Thanks for everything. I wish…” she lowered her eyes. “I just wish things were different. That Justin had a Daddy at home.”
“I know. But he’s always welcome here.” David held her tight.
“I know that. I’m just… not ready to…”
“I will never take him away from you, Steph. I swear.” David looked at her.
“Thanks, David. You’re a great guy.” She kissed his cheek. “I better go now.”

Lorna stood behind the window and saw David and Steph in each others arms. She took a deep breath and just then the baby kicked.
“I hope he doesn’t walk out on us, little one…” she whispered, storking her belly.

Chapter 98: Surprise

“Why did you ask a caterer? It’s Christmas. I can cook myself. It’s much more fun.” Ulva said.
“I want you to relax tonight and you’ll find out later why I arranged it.” Carlos smiled.
She frowned. “Oh?”
“Why don’t you get ready, Amor? You’ll find out soon enough.” He kissed her forehead.


When Ulva came back to the livingroom, the doorbell rang.
Carlos jumped up. “That will be Santa Claus.”
Ulva shrugged. Sometimes Carlos could be so funny.

He came back in with a huge smile on his face. “Querida… I know you said you wanted to celebrate Christmas just with me. But…”
“But?”
“But I hope you’ll like my surprise anyway.” He opened the door and she gasped. Her parents, brothers and sisters smiled at her.
“My God…” she hugged her father. “What are you all doing here?”
“Carlos invited us.” Henning smiled.
“And we were more then happy to say yes.” Her mother Synne answered.

“How is my big sister?” Ulva asked.
Ronja smiled at her. “I’m fine. I missed you.”
“So Carlos… Are you gonna make my sister an honest woman?” Morten asked.
“Well, I asked her to marry me, but she said no.” he shrugged.
“You what?” Emil looked at her.
“I don’t want to repeat what happened 8 years ago. I’ll marry him. Someday.” Ulva shrugged.


Dinner was great. Carlos just sat there, smiling, while Ulva and her family were catching up. He didn’t understand a word of Norwegian, but he was more then happy to see Ulva shine.
Just before dessert was served, Ulva came to him and hugged him. “Thank you so much. This is the best gift ever!”
“So you don’t want the other gift I have for you?” he winked.
“I do, I do!!!” she laughed.

Carlos handed her an envelop and Ulva excitedly jumped up and down when she discovered 2 tickets to the next Josh Groban concert. “Oh my God!!!!!!!!!!”
“Front row.” Carlos smiled.
“She has a Divo at home and is crazy about Josh Groban. Be carefull, Carlos… She might run off with him.” Morten teased.
“That twiglette doesn’t stand a chance. Ulva wants a real man, not a boy!” he huffed.
Ulva smiled and kissed him. “You’re right, Carlos. I have my hands full with you!”


It was late when everyone had left. Ulva sank down in the couch, close to Carlos. “That was the best Christmas ever!”
“I’m glad you had a good time.” He pulled her close.
“Did you enjoy yourself? I feel a bit quilty. I mean… You don’t speak Norwegian and…” she bit her lip.
“I enjoyed watching you. You looked so happy.” He said.
She nodded. “I missed them. It was such a nice surprise. I don’t know how to thank you.”
Carlos put his hand on her belly. “I’m gonna be a daddy. That is the most beautiful gift ever.”
“Are you gonna be here when it gets born?”
“Of course I will. We’re not on tour in the summer.” He kissed her forehead. “Let’s go to bed now.”
“Are you tired?” she winked.
Carlos wiggled his eyebrows. “A little…”
“I’ll race you.” Ulva said and laughed while she ran out of the room.

Chapter 99: A turbulent Christmas

Sophia carefully put Christian in his basket, next to the Christmas tree. It was like he was enchanted by the lights, cause his little hands reached out to them.
“What’s that? You like the lights?” she smiled.
“He’s a clever boy.” Seb said, standing in the doorway.
“Yeah…” She looked at him. “Is there anything I can help you with?”
“Non. Dinner is almost ready.” He put a bottle of champagne and 2 glasses on the table.
Sophia smiled. “Champagne…”
“Oui. It’s Christmas after all.” He handed her a glass. “A toast to the future.”

“Hmm…” Sophia nipped her glass. “Seb…”
“Oui Chérie?”
“I’ve been thinking. Would you mind if we live in London instead of in Paris?” she asked.
Seb frowned. “London? I thought we agreed on Paris.”
“Yes, but… I’ll be working for Sony London, so… It would be much easier. And you won’t be around much anyway.” She shrugged.
“If that is what you want.” He stood up. “I’m gonna finish dinner.”
Sophia sighed. She knew he loved Paris, but he had lived in London as well. She thought he wouldn’t mind but obviously she was wrong.


During dinner, Seb was a little quiet. Sophia tried to keep up conversation.
“I’m actually looking forward to the New Years Party. It’s so kind of my new collegues to throw me a party. And I can’t wait to show of Christian.” She smiled.
“I don’t think it’s a good idea.” Seb said. “It’s too soon for you to go back to work.”
“What?”
Seb took her hand. “You’ve just given birth, Chérie. And it hasn’t been easy. I think you should take a break for a while.”
“I can’t believe this. What is it with you? You know, Tom would never have stopped me from working if I felt up to it.” she pushed back her chair and ran to the bedroom.

Seb sighed. Tom… He kept haunting them.
Christian stirred and Seb went to check on him. “I’m sorry. Did we wake you? Your Mummy is a little upset. And so am I. I love her, Christian. I really do. But I think she still loves your Daddy more then she loves me.”


An hour later, Sophia reappeared. Seb saw she had been crying.
“I’m sorry.” She whispered. “I know I’ve been unreasonable.”
Seb patted the space next to him on the couch. “Come here, Chérie.”
She sat down and he took her in his arms. “We both overreacted. I only want what’s best for you. And if you want to go back to work, I’ll support you.”
“I really love you, Seb.” She whispered, a tear rolling down her cheek.
“I know.”
Christian began to cry.
“I think someone is hungry.” Seb smiled. He took him out of his basket and handed him to Sophia. When he saw her feeding him, his heart jumped up. He loved that woman so much. And he couldn’t wait for her to hold his children.

Chapter 100: The past keeps haunting

Urs, Bridget and Simon were enjoying their little holiday in Switzerland. In 2 days, they were flying back to London for the New Years Eve party, but right now, relaxing was all they were thinking about.

Urs was playing the guitar Bridget gave him for Christmas while she was reading a book with her feet on his lap. Simon sat in a chair, near the fire place, sipping his tea while reading the papers.

The silence was broken by Simon’s mobile.
“Hello? … Hi Henry.”
Bridget looked up. A lawyer calling during holidays was never good.
“I see…” Simon stood up and left the room.
“That’s weird.” She said.
“Hmm?” Urs looked up. “He probably wants some privacy.”
She shrugged. “Yeah, I guess.”

When Simon came back, Bridget knew something was wrong.
“That was Henry. Mikes’ trial starts the second week of January.” He looked at her. “He wants you to testify.”
“No…” she paled and sat up.
“I know it will be hard, but if we want to keep him in jail…”
She shook her head. “I can’t.”
“Sweetheart…”
“No, Dad.” Bridget looked at Urs. “Don’t make me do it. Please, don’t force me…”
He swallowed hard. “Liebling… He has to be punished.”
“I can’t… I can’t face him.” She stood up.
“We’ll go with you.” Simon said.
“NO! I can’t do it!” Bridget looked at them with tears in her eyes. “I can’t believe you’re asking me to do this.” She ran out, leaving both men on their own. They heard her slam the front door.

“Shouldn’t you go after her?” Simon asked.
“In a minute. Give her some time alone.” Urs said. “Simon, can we force her to go?”
He shrugged. “She’s a witness. And he did kidnap her.”
“I know.” Urs nodded. “God, Simon… She’ll be 6 months pregnant by then. It’s gonna be so hard on her.”
“I know. But she has our support. And I’m sure the guys will be there too.”


When Urs came to the waterfall, he saw Bridget sitting on the rock. He softly approached her and sat down next to her, putting his arm around her waist.
“I can’t do it.” She wispered, her eyes full of tears.
Urs pulled her close. “We will all be there, Liebling. Me, Simon, the other guys…”
“I can’t face him. I’m so scared.”
“He won’t hurt you. But to keep it that way you have to stand up against him. I know it will be hard, but he has to be punished.” Urs stroked her back. “If you don’t testiy he’ll be free again and then he can hurt you even worse. You can do this. You’re a strong woman. You have to stand up to him and make sure he goes to prison for a long time.”
“Will you go with me?” she asked softly.
“Of course I will. I’ll be there every single minute.” He raised her chin. “Ich liebe dich, Bridget. And I won’t let anything happen to you.”


That night, Urs woke up from a tossing and mumbling Bridget.
“No… Please…”
“Sweetie, wake up.” He gently shook her.
“No… No!!!!!!!!!!” She sat up, breathing heavily.
“It’s ok, Liebling. It was just a dream.” Urs held her trembling body.

“What’s wrong?” Simon came running in.
“A nightmare.” Urs stroked her hair, softly whispering to her.
“Mike?”
“I think so.” He nodded.
Simon sat down on the bed and put a hand on Bridget’s shoulder. “He can’t hurt you, Sweetheart. We won’t let him.”
“What if he comes after me? Or after the baby?” she sobbed.
Urs looked at Simon. “He won’t. We’ll get a security system, if that makes you feel better.”
Simon nodded. “And on tour you’ll have bodyguards. They are not only there for the guys, but for all of you.”
“Ok…” she whispered.
“Get some rest now, Sweetheart.” Simon said. “Everything will be ok. You’ll see.”

Urs lay down with Bridget in his arms. “I’m here, Liebling. I’ll protect you.”
“What if you are on tour?” she asked softly.
“We’ll find something about that. Maybe Sophia can come here for a while. Or you can stay at my parents. Rest now, my love.” He kissed her forehead.

Bridget drifted off, but Urs couldn’t sleep. His mind was working overtime. He prayed that Mike would be locked up and that Bridget would be safe when he was gone.

Chapter 101: New Years Eve

On New Years Eve, the couples were getting ready for the big party.

Sophia had fed Christian and dressed him in a tuxedo that was handmade just for him.



“My beautiful son.” She smiled. “You’ll be the star of the evening.”
She tickled his belly and put him in his crib to get some rest before they had to leave.

Seb smiled when she finally walked into the living room, with Christian in her arms.
“You look beautiful, Chérie.” His eyes wandered to the cleavage of her gold coloured dress. “So beautiful…”



“Thank you.” She smiled. She put Christian in the travel cot.
Seb’s eyes fell on her jewelry and he swallowed. He saw she was wearing the necklace and earrings Tom had bought for her.

“You really think it’s a good idea to take Christian with us?” he asked.
“Simon booked a room in the hotel. A nanny will take care off him and I can go up to feed him.” Sophia said. “Don’t worry.”


“I’m ready.” Bridget said softly.
Urs looked up and was speechless. “Liebling…”
She wore a strapless red lacy dress that showed off her belly.



“You don’t like it.” She bit her lip.
“Mein Gott! Look at you. Don’t like it? I love it! You look so sexy.” he came to her and his hands stroked her bare shoulders. “If I didn’t have to perform, we weren’t going.”
“Oh Urs…”
He claimed her mouth and his hands caressed her back. “I love you, Bridget.”
“I love you too. Come on, let’s go before you change your mind.” She winked.


“You sure you’re up to it?” David asked as he helped Lorna in her coat.
“Yes, I’m fine. And if I get too tired, we can come home, right?”
“Of course. Did I tell you how beautiful you look?” he kissed her forehead.
Lorna sighed. “I look like I’m wearing a tent!”



“You look absolutely stunning. And you are pregnant, Babe. It won’t be long now before we have our beautiful girl.”


“Querida, can you help me with… Dios!” Carlos stopped in the doorway when he saw his girlfriend in her party dress.



“Help you with Dios?” Ulva raised an eyebrow.
“You look unbelievable! I’m going to have to keep the men away from you.”
“Oh Carlos! You know there is only one man for me.” She stood on her toes and kissed him.
“Keep that in mind.” He wiggeled his eyebrows.



Sophia and Seb stood at the entrance of the ballroom, with Christian in his cot on a little table between them. Everyone wanted to congratulate her and admired the little boy.
Urs and Bridget were the first of their friends to arrive.
“Congratualations, Sophia.” Urs kissed her cheek.
“Thank you.”
“He’s so cute.” Bridget touched Christians’ cheek.
“Yeah… And very sweet. I only hear him when he wants to eat.” Sophia nodded.

Urs smiled when he saw how Bridget looked at the boy. When she looked up at him, he couldn’t resist kissing her. “We’ll soon have our own.”
“I know.” She nodded. “Is Simon here yet?”
Seb pointed towards the bar. “Of course he is. Do you mind if I go with them for a second?” he asked Sophia.
“Of course not.”

While Bridget greeted Simon, Urs quietly talked to Seb. “You seemed relieved to get away.”
“Look at her, Urs… She enjoys this. And it’s obvious she enjoys being Mrs Brady. She wears the jewelry he got her, her engagement ring, her wedding ring… How can I compete with that?” he sighed.
Urs squeezed his shoulder. “You don’t have to compete. Yes, she loved Tom. But she loves you as well.”

“Amigos!” Carlos interrupted their conversation.
“Hi Carlos.” Urs shook his hand.
“Urs, Seb, Simon…” he nodded. “Bridget! Wow! All the ladies look very sexy tonight!” he kissed her cheek.
“Hi Ulva.” Urs smiled. “Keep your hands of my wife, Marin!” he teased and pulled Bridget to him.

“Don’t start the party without the big Miller!” David and Lorna joined them.
“Finally! How come you’re always last to arrive?” Simon asked.
“I’m sorry, Simon, but I’ll never be able to beat the Swiss.” David sighed before hugging his friend. “Kidding!”

“How are you feeling, Lorna?” Bridget asked.
“Like I swallowed a watermelon.” She sighed.
Ulva smiled. “It will be worth it. You think they will grow up now that they are becoming daddies?”
They looked at the bikering men and shook their heads before laughing out loud. “Nah!”


“Right, guys… How about you get ready for the performance? I’ll bring your ladies to the table and introduce you.” Simon said.
Urs kissed Bidget before he left. His hands lingered on her bare shoulders and she shivered slightly.
“Cold?” he winked.
“No…” she whispered.

They starred at each other, the love in their eyes so obvious.
Simon smiled. He almost felt guilty for disturbing them. “Urs…” he said softly.
“Ja… I’m ready.” The Swiss nodded and winked at his wife before he left with the others.

Chapter 102: Partying

Sophia had just taken Christian upstairs and joined the other 3 ladies at the small table.
“Is he asleep?” Ulva asked.
“Yeah… No problem at all.” She nodded.

Simon appeared on the small stage and people went quiet. “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our New Years’ Eve party. As you all know this is a welcoming party for our CEO who decided to join our London office. Sophia, we are more then happy to have you here.” He nodded at her. “And what would this party be without some music? I’m very happy that four of my stars accepted to perform tonight, so please give them a warm welcome. Here is Il Divo!”

Ulva whistled on her fingers when the guys came on and Carlos winked at her. All four of them looked at their women and they all realised they were blessed.
Seb kept looking at Sophia while he sung ‘Si tu me amas’. He knew it was her favourite song.

Once again, she thought back about the night they met, how she had seen him in concert and everything that happened since then. She knew her future lay with him and she also knew she had to talk to him later.

Urs watched Bridget while they sang ‘Everytime…’. He knew the song touched her over and over again. It was amazing how close they had gotten over this past year and how his life had changed. He blew her a kiss when the song ended and she touched her heart.

David shook his hips on ‘La vida…’ and grinned at Lorna. She laughed at him, gently stroking her belly. In about 3 weeks he would be a Daddy and he couldn’t wait to hold his daughter in his arms.

Ulva watched Carlos. His booming voice filled the room and she loved how his body bent back at the long notes. The so typical Carlos way of singing…
She loved that man with all her heart and she was more then happy that faith had brought them together again.


The guys were rewarded with a standing ovation and Simon smiled proudly. “Well done, guys. Go and enjoy the rest of the evening. You deserved it.”
“Thanks Simon!” David smiled and rushed over to Lorna.
The others went for a drink first and got held up by some of the Sony people.

Urs glanced at the ladies, and saw Bridget standing with Danny, one of the guys of the orchestra who was obiviously making a move on her. From where Urs was standing, he saw the guy was looking at her cleavage and he could almost see him drool.

“Excuse me.” Urs nodded and left the company he was in. He walked up to Bridget and hugged her from behind, his hands on her belly, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Hello my love.” He looked up at Danny. “Evening, Danny. Doesn’t my wife look beautiful?”
“She sure does, Urs.” Danny smiled.
“I’m sure you don’t mind that I steal her away from you for a dance?” Urs said, his eyes dark.
“Of course not.” Danny nodded. “I’ll… see you later.” He rushed off.
Bridget turned around in Urs’ arms. “Is my Swiss husband a little jealous?”
“Jealous? The guy was looking at your breasts!”
She touched his cheek. “Oh Urs… Do you know that you are awfully cute when you are so protective?”
“Well, you are my wife, so…” he kissed her nose. “So… A dance?”
“Yes, please.” She nodded.

He led her to the dancefloor, with his hand on the small of her back. She almost melted in his arms. Her head rested on his shoulder, while one of her hands stroked his muscled chest.
“This is heaven…” she whispered.


Seb watched Sophia from a distance. She was talking to Simon and some of the managers. She was really made for this. Socialising, talking to people,… It had taken him a while before he got used to all this and sometimes he still found it difficult.


Lorna and David sat closely together at one of the tables. “You want to go home?” he asked.
“Let’s stay till after midnight. It’s just fifteen more minutes.” She smiled. “But then I would love to go, cause my back and feet are killing me.”
“I’ll give you a nice massage when we get home.” David softly stroked her belly. He was rewarded with a kick from the baby. “You should be asleep.” David joked.
“She likes the nights… Just like her father.” Lorna smiled.
“That’s gonna be fun!” David laughed. “Sleepless nights…”
“You’ll be on tour.”
He kissed her gently. “I’ll be with you as much as I can.”


Bridget and Urs were still dancing, closely together, lost in each other.
“Can I cut in?” Seb asked, biting his lip.
Urs looked at him and realised he didn’t do this on purpose and that he probably wanted to talk to Birdget. “Sure. Just make sure I get her back before midnight.”

Seb nodded and danced away with Bridget. “I don’t want to ruin your evening. I just want you to know that Sophia and I will be at the trial. For moral support.”
“Thanks, Seb. I appreciate it.” She nodded. “I’m… I’m really scared.”
“I know, but it will be ok. You’ll see. He’s gonna be put away for a very long time.”
“I hope you’re right.” She smiled at him. “But how are you?”
Seb shrugged. “I’m ok.”
“Seb… I know you. Don’t pretend.”
“Do you think Sophia loves me, Bridget? I mean… look at her. Tom’s memory keeps haunting us.” He sighed.
“She loves you very much, Seb. Anyone can see that. Tom will always be a part of Chrisitan, but I think she’ll put that aside after a while. I know it’s not easy, but give it some time. Just a little.” Bridget said.
“Ok. I will. Thanks.”


Just before midnight, the couples stood on the balcony, waiting for the New Year. They heard the countdown and as the fireworks started, all four of them kissed.

“Happy New Year, Querida. May it be a very happy one with our little bambino.” Carlos smiled.
Ulva nodded. “I’m sure it will be. I love you, Carlos.”
“I love you too.” He pulled her close and they watched the fireworks.

David kissed Lorna tenderly. “Next year our girl will be with us.”
“That will be so nice.” Lorna nodded. “I just wish my family would be a little more forgiving.”
“Maybe they will. Once the baby is here.” David hugged her.
“I hope so. I really hope so.”

Urs stood behind Bridget and his hands stroked her belly. Suddenly he gasped. “Was that…?”
She nodded. “A kick. Happy New Year, Daddy.”
“Mein Gott.” He kneeled down and kissed her bump. “Happy New Year, little one.”
Bridget looked at him with tears in her eyes. “You’re gonna be such a great father.”
“And you will be an amazing mother.” He stood up and kissed her gently. “Let’s go home. I want you to myself.”

Sophia kissed Seb. “I hope this year will be a better one then the last.”
“A new start.” He nodded, looking intently at her.
“Yes. I like that.” She squeezed his hand. “Let’s go and get Christian and go home. We need to talk.”

Chapter 103: Celebrations

David sat on the bed, with Lorna’s feet in his lap. He was gently massaging them, smiling at her. “How does that feel?”
“Great… just great…” she sighed.
After a while he stood up. “Lay on your side. I’ll do your back as well.”
“You don’t have to. I know you’re tired too.”
“I enjoy it, Babe.” He said and sat behind her.

His strong hands moved over her back. Lorna closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling. David felt her relax under his touch and her breathing became slow.
He smiled and shook his head. He pulled the covers over her, sighed and hugged her close. Within minutes he fell asleep himself.


As soon as the door opened, Urs pushed Bridget against the wall, kissing her passionately.
“Urs…” she moaned.
“I wanted to do this all night long.” He unzipped her dress and let it fall on the floor. “You’re so beautiful, Bridget. So beautiful…”
She unbuttoned his shirt and lightly kissed his skin.
He shrugged off the shirt, pulling her to him again. “I need you…”
“You have me…” she whispered as he picked her up.

Their lovemaking was passionate and tender at the same time. They couldn’t get enough of eachother.
Afterwards they could hardly speak. Urs slowly rolled on his back, pulling her in his arms. “Mein Gott…”
Bridget nodded. “That was…”
“Unbelievable…” He lazily stroked her sholder.
“I can’t believe I pushed you away for so long.” She shook her head. “All the time we waisted…”
“The most important thing is that we are together now. The past is past. The future is all that matters.” He tenderly kissed her. “Let’s get some sleep. You need to rest.”
“I love you, Urs.” Bridget said, before nuzzling close.


While Ulva opened the door, Carlos whistled a song and his hands moved over her back. She gasped when she felt her dress slipping to the floor. “Carlos!”
“Si…” he grinned and swept her in his arms. “You’ve been teasing me all night long. My turn now.”
He hungrily kissed her and carried her to the bedroom.

Not much later, Ulva’s fingers played with his chest hair. “Carlos?”
“Hmm…”
“Are you mad at me for not wanting to marry you?” she asked softly.
His strong arms captured her. “No Querida. I understand your reasons.”
“But I do love you, Carlos.”
“I know. And I love you too. Very much. And I’ll try to be with you as much as I can. Especially after our baby is born.” He said, kissing her forehead.
“That would be great.” She nodded.
“Let’s sleep now. It’s late.” He said.
Ulva kissed him tenderly. “Sweet dreams, Carlos.”
“Sweet dreams, Querida.”

Chapter 104: Heart to heart

Sophia put Christian in bed and returned to the bedroom. Seb sat on the bed and looked at her.

She slowly took of her jewelry and put it back in the velvet box. And then she took of her wedding ring and engagement ring, kissed them and put them in a small box. She opened the safe, put everything in there and closed it again.

She turned to Seb. "Seb, I know you didn't like the fact that I was wearing Tom's jewelry, the jewelry he gave me, but I’m putting it away now until Christian is old enough to give it to his wife. Tonight I said good-bye to Tom on my terms. I know this is what he would have wanted me to do. I wanted to honour him one last time. Make sure he knew that he was loved and very important to me. Now I know that I'm free, one hundred percent free to move on. No ghost to haunt us anymore, Seb."

"Are you sure Sophie? Please be sure. I can't live with him in between us anymore. I tried honey, I really did, but… You measure me against him and how can I compete with someone who isn't alive?" Seb asked, looking intently at her.

"I know, Seb. It wasn't fair of me. My marriage to Tom was forced and I guess I've always tried to sound and behave and believe myself that I loved him like he deserved. Maybe because I fell in love with you so easily, that I felt I owed Tom some sort of honour and respect. That by loving you I wasn't mourning him properly." Sophia shook her head, the tears spilling down hot and heavy as she tried to explain her emotions.

"I want Christian to know that he was concieved with so much love and that he had a father who would have loved him. I want him to know Tom but I also want him to love you like a father. I'm so confused by that sometimes, Seb. At night, when I'm breast feeding him and you’re snoring in bed, I think that maybe we did concieve him together, me and you. Then I feel so guilty that I would take away even this from Tom. Can you understand that?"

Seb stepped forward and hugged Sophie close to him, her chest rising against his. "I didn't think you'd feel guilty, Sophie. I mean, we aren't exactly the most convential couple in the world, but I think that we love each other enough to get past whatever it is that is in our past." Seb said as he ran his hand through her hair, holding her close to him, breathing in her scent.

"Oh Seb… I love you. I love you since the moment I met you on the beach. I was scared at first and then you broke my heart. I felt I had no choice but to run and now I have you back. Now that I have you, I want you to know that I'll love you with every breath I take, with every thought I have. You are my love, my life, all that I have, all that I want." Sophie raised her hand so that it rested against his check.

Seb saw the proof of her love in the way she was looking at him and he nodded. "So no more talk of Tom unless it's to tell Christian about him?" Seb asked and held Sophia’s hand in his. He wanted to make her his in the most primative way. It took all his control to stop himself from kissing her. If he kissed her, he wouldn't be able to stop, and he knew that he had to.

"No more Tom between us. I promise, Seb." Sophie whispered and it didn't seem the least bit weird as they began to sway to the music that only they could hear, dancing to the song of their love.