The Messy Life Of A Clean Freak

Chapter 1

(Writer) Sarah was having a flashback to when her parents were first married. It showed how they were unhappy and having a serious argument. It ended just before horrible names were mentioned and Sarah woke up panting and horrified. But much to her dismay Kirk and Charlotte were really arguing.

“Kirk, I hate it when you don't listen to me and take into consideration what I want" Charlotte expressed. "This place has been given bad reviews over the last two years" Kirk deduced. "It doesn't matter, I loved it when I was there for my friend's leaving do" Charlotte rebutted. "It does matter because you didn't stay there overnight" Kirk validated. “You always just want to argue with me and I despise that and it makes me feel sick" Mrs Smith vocalised. “Why can't we try somewhere different?" Kirk searched for an answer. "No you can try somewhere different, it obviously doesn't make a difference if I go" Charlotte left the room.

(Me) I'm glad you weren't there to see or hear what I just did. My friends, I don't want you to think that I don't know married couples can argue. However, to be honest I didn't expect one so soon. My parents just got remarried about 2 months ago and I know you were there. I didn't hear what was the disruption in their honeymoon phase though they haven't actually been on their honeymoon. It sounded serious and on the edge of when they started not getting along the first time they were married. I have to go investigate, please excuse me.

(Writer) "Dad, I just dreamt of the arguments you used to have and how you were about to insult each other" Sarah made her dad know. "Darling you know I have changed, please don't sweep the past off the dustpan" Mr Smith pleaded. "What were you seriously arguing about?" Kirk’s only daughter intended to investigate. "I love your mum and I can never insult her but she is being difficult. She was telling me about a place she wants to go for our honeymoon" Mr Smith laid down the facts. "So then that should solve it, go there then" Miss Smith jumped into a conclusion. "She has been there before and I'm not certain because of the feedback I heard from friends" Kirk tried to justify. "Dad it's important to her, I don't see the issue" the daughter claimed. “Of course you don't. The thing is I have already found a beautiful place that I want us to explore together. I started planning it 2 months ago and I was getting ready to tell her when she kicked off but did I say to her she doesn't listen? No" Kirk phrased. "So how will you tell her?" Miss Smith requested, "I will think about it. Everything is fine darling, you go back to bed" my dad said positively. I returned to my room and went to my bed.

Saturday 20th April

(Writer) In the middle of the day Charlotte was making the most of having the house to herself. Mrs Smith was in between browsing on her phone and sending messages to her friends, when the house phone rang. "Hello" Charlotte said, "good afternoon, I am Stan Micovic, activities representative from Milano Hotel and Resort, am I speaking to Mr. Kirk Smith?" The hotel employee inquired. "No, this is his wife" Kirk’s wife let him know "oh how are you today?" The hotel representative enquired. "I am quite alright thank you" Charlotte gave a response. "This is just a cate call to inform you that your deluxe package is ready. When should we expect you?" The representative wondered. "Pardon me?" The mother of two asked to be repeated. "This is a call to receive an update for when your stay will begin" the employee term was clarified. "I'm sorry I do not know what you are talking about" Charlotte stated. "Oh I sincerely apologize for intercepting Mr Kirk's surprise" Stan said. "There is no need. I will have a word with him and the day will be relayed very soon" Charlotte replied. "I look forward to your call, have a good day" Stan ended the call.

A few hours later, Mr Smith returned to the house and met his wife in the living room. "Good afternoon my cuddle bun, how are you and how was your day?" Charlotte’s husband checked up on her. "Pleasant monsieur muffin, how about yours?" Charlotte asked back. "It wasn't bad. I just have to make a call and I will join you" Kirk told his wife. "I can't wait to explore Milano Hotel!" Mrs Smith blurted out. "Pardon me?" Kirk wanted to hear his wife again. "I know about the package. Stan called here to tell us all the preparations have been done and wanted to find out when we will come" Charlotte briefed him. "I didn't want you to find out that way. I wanted to tell you before we argued" the father of two told her "I'm glad I found out this way. So when can we go?" Mrs Smith asked. "Is Thursday suitable for you?" Kirk inquired. "Yes so call them please and confirm. I hope you have already forgiven me" the wife supposed. "Even from 1 minute after you left the room" Charlotte hugged her husband.

After the next hour..

(Me) You can all relax now, the drama has ended. My parents know when and where they are going for their honeymoon but unfortunately not all I have for you is good news because Sam and I broke up. I know, I was very shocked, we were like perfect for each other. He adored me so much but it turns out we aren’t perfect for each other.

Well thank you for trusting me but fortunately it was all a joke hahaha! We are perfect for each other and he still adores me and we are not breaking up any time soon as far as I’m concerned. I just said it so I know I have your attention. Let me just give you a full recap of what has been headline news. My mum and dad got remarried and are officially Mr and Mrs Kirk Smith. It was bound, absolutely bound to happen.

Apart from that Sam and I are still going well (I promise). Jay is still a big part of Joy’s family and yes Tom is still annoying but he is slowly becoming mature. I can’t stress that word enough though.

(Writer) A few days after, Sarah had just exited the school with her friends and they were chatting. Then Miss Hope received a call from her dad. "Hi cherub have you finished school?" "Yes dad just walking out with my friends and chatting" Joy responded. "I'm sorry to be a party stopper, can you please come and help me to tidy up because Max and his dad will visit us and you know I'm useless with tidying up" Mr Hope whinged. "(laughs) I will be right there" Joy promised, "what's up J?" Sarah asked "dad needs me" Joy answered. "You're in a hurry to leave us did I do something wrong?" Sarah required. "No silly, I will catch up with you soon" Miss Hope hugged her best friend and walked to her house. Sam, Sarah and Jay continued to make their way to Sam’s home.

6pm- (Me) Heya, I just got home and I can see my dad ironing a tall pile of clothes, while my mum was packing them into suitcases. It could only mean one thing that my parents were finally ready to go on their honeymoon. The build up of anticipation has been so much that I’m not sure if my support would even help but I’m going to give it a go.

“Hi mum, can I help at all?” I bravely required. “Yeah sure you can, hold on a second” my mum said and laid the clothes in the suitcase. “Can you count how many summery tops I have please?” My mum asked so I bent down to be at eye level and started to count. After 2 minutes I was ready to give the amount. “Mum you have 11 summer tops”. “What about this, would you not call this a summery top?” My mum lifted up a folded top. “I don’t think so” I shared my opinion. “I wasn’t going to take any jacket with it but just in case we go out for breakfast and it’s a bit chilly” my mum justified her point of view. “I guess so when you look at it that way but I can see you’ve got quite a lot of not summery clothes. I thought last time you told me it was quite hot most of the time” I alleged. “I can’t have said that because your dad is taking me to somewhere new” my mum told me. “So you decided to go with dad’s surprise. I thought it would have made you happier to go where you wanted” I assumed. “Sarah the thing is, sometimes we have to let our hearts explore more than what we see. It’s okay that sometimes you don’t have a decision in your hands but you know that someone will take care of everything. I didn’t see that the first time round but I feel much more relaxed to see I’m doing that” my mum clearly explained. “That’s really cool of you mum, how long will you be gone?” I wondered. “About 12 days, don’t worry I’ve got dresses too but I’ve counted them already” my mum let me know.

When 5 minutes passed..

“Hi mum” Tom greeted my mum as he entered the living room. “Hi Tommie, did you have a great day today?” My mum questioned. “Yeah, are we going on holiday?” Tom responded. “Just your dad and I” my mum claimed. “Oh I hope you have fun but I hope we will get to go on one” Tom made a fair point. “I know darling, now that our family are back together, we’ll be doing many fun things especially holidays, so don’t worry okay” my mum eased his mind. “Okay mummy” Tom allowed. “My friend will take us to the airport and she may pop round to take you on some trips. All the food you will need is in the freezer” my mum alerted us. “What about this evening?” I didn’t leave out. “It’s already done, go and serve some for your brother and yourself” my mum instructed. “Tom hasn’t even acknowledged my presence” I couldn’t work out. “Hi Sarah” Tom added. “Now he has, come on Sarah be the big sister” my mum tried to show support and I got up and went to the kitchen.

Chapter 2

4 months later

(Me) It is August in our summer holidays now and I’m with my boo, bestie and super amigo in the most beautiful pond park. I planned to feed the ducks but Sam told us he has something to share.

“I was playing about on the internet and I saw a special offer on a resort in Vancouver called Stanley Park. There’s are fun places to go like Central Park to play tennis, badminton, hockey and football, indoor stadium, ice skating, sunset beach” Sam revealed. “That sounds fantastic with a capital F, what other things do they have?’” Joy asked “J, do you really want me to give you an exhaustive list?” Sam couldn’t believe. “No of course not but I wanna go” Joy replied. “We should all go, it is only £50 per person for the flight and £30 per person for the resort and its services” Sam gave us the most important information. “Don’t forget the cost of going to the airport” I added. “Our parents can take us” Sam replied “but they work” Joy included. “We’ll have to go early so it will do” Sam was working hard to convince us. “We need to ask for permission from our parents” Jay did not want us to forget. “Well I’ve already asked my dad and he’s fine. So we only have to ask Joy’s and Sarah’s parents and us 5 are good to go” Sam sounded confident. “How is it 5, who else are you inviting?” I wanted to know. “Your brother babe” Sam slipped in. “Oh (laughs) right” I said. Aww he is so sweet for thinking about my brother. “So girls what do you say?” Sam wanted our answer. “Yeah let’s go” Joy stood on the bench. “Oh Sam you’ve already got her in Joy mode, down tiger” I said. “Ok let’s ask our parents when we get home and have a conference call around 9” Sam arranged. “Can we first go and get something to eat?” Joy expressed out of hunger. “Okay, you guys go while I feed the ducks” I couldn’t wait. “See you in a bit beauty bun” he, Joy and Jay left the park.

40 minutes later they returned to me as I was putting the empty bag in the bin. “Are the duckies satisfied girl?” Joy checked. “More than, they so don’t want me to go but I’ll be back duckies” the ducks turned away from me and the girls laughed. “I expected more from you Jay” I pointed to her. “Sorry Sarah, it just slipped out. Let’s go and tell our parents and we’ll speak at 9” Jay concluded our time at the park. “Sam, where are you going?” I asked him. “We’ll drop them off so we can walk alone” he put his hand out and I ran to grab it.

We arrived at our meeting point 25 minutes later as we were dragging our feet. “Bye gals, talk to you soon and I’ll text you when you get home, Joy” I told Joy. “How do you know when we will get home?” Jay questioned. “It’s a best friend thing, don’t kill the vibe” I warned her. “My bad, later” Joy and Jay walked off. “So cuteness should we go back then go home?” Sam wanted to lengthen our journey to our homes. “Why not? Haven’t got anything better to do” I hooked my arm in his and we started walking back the way we came.

An hour later I was at home and I met the new newlyweds sitting with Tom in the living room. “Mum, dad, Tom, Sam suggested that him, me, Tom, Joy and Jay should go to a resort in Vancouver, are you okay with that?” I asked. “That is a wonderful idea darling and I’m so happy you included Tom” my mum commented. “How much is it first?” My dad needed to know. “£50 for each of us for the flight and £30 extra to stay in the resort” I informed them. “Phew thought it would be like 400+ but I’m fine with that. I will give you a bit extra for spending money. How long are you going for?” I realised what we hadn’t talked about. “Oops I forgot to ask, it’s probably like 5 days but I will verify when we talk tonight” I promised. “Find out and when you are going” my dad told me and they left to go upstairs. “Tom, you excited about our trip?” I made conversation. “Yeah I’m gonna start packing now. What clothes do we need?” Tom questioned. “Clothes for the summer and the beach” I answered his question. “Ok, thanks Sarah” he ran to his room.

I sat there for a bit before I replied to Joy’s text. After a few back to back messages, I called Sam. “Hi babe” my boyfriend picked the phone. “I thought you only wanted us to talk in the conference call” Sam assumed. “Yeah, but we can talk until then” I replied. “So I have to tell Joy you broke the rules” Sam wanted to worry me. “If that is your wish sire” I talked in old English. “Ok, I won’t” Sam retracted his joke. We talked until the clock struck 9 and Joy and Jay brought themselves into the call. We talked about the trip till we all felt sleepy.

After 10 hours passed..

We decided when we were going on the trip and for how long. Next Wednesday to return the following Monday. We also decided that we were inviting Max, Tina and Roger, Max’s neighbour’s son. It meant that the fare would be slightly higher, however our parents were still happy. Today, the girls and I are going shopping for the trip. Tom on the other hand is being smart and staying home. Tomorrow I will go with Sam while the girls go together and Max goes with his neighbour’s son.

As the day before the trip arrived, we all ironed our clothes that we were wearing to the airport. Then we arranged our carry-ons, prayed for a good journey and great weather since we had to leave at 6am. We are all going to bed early, good night.

(Writer) 9 hours later..

(Me) Good morning!!! I’m so excited, this trip is going to be lots of fun. I know what you’re thinking, why am I writing in my diary and not getting ready? Well, unfortunately I am and that much closer to leaving you. I’m joking but I am ready. My mum is rushing around as if she was the one travelling, to make sure we don’t forget a thing. What a lovely mummy.

I just got a message from Sam: ‘Hi sweetness are you and Tom ready?’ ‘Just call me’ I reply. ‘We’ll see each other soon’ Sam didn’t want to call. ‘Ok. I’m ready but my mum is getting things for Tom’ my next message was received. ‘She must be getting worried that he’s leaving her’ he got back to me in no time. ‘That is it exactly. Lol bless her heart’ I waited for his next message. ‘Joy said they’ll be ready in 5 minutes and Tina’s with them too’ Sam kept the conversation moving. ‘That’s cool we still have time’ I typed relaxed. ‘Yeah I’ll message you when I’ve left’ Sam replied. I sent ‘xxx’ to end the conversation nicely.

Joy and Jay were actually ready 20 minutes after (roll eyes). Sam called me when he was on the way to the airport so I could hear his cute voice.

We got to the airport at 7:40am and we had 1 hour and 20 minutes till we had to board the plane. We checked in, went through security and talked to our parents till then. When it was time I hugged my parents tightly. My dad picked Tom up, hugged him and kissed his head. Sam, Joy and Jay said their goodbyes and we did get time for another blessing of prayer. All our parents waved and we walked on to the departures hall. In the plane I was going to sit with Sam, Joy and Tom. Jay was going to sit with everyone else.

12pm: Sorry I kept you tapping your fingers for so long. Anyway we are up in the air and I feel sad. They brought the food while I was sleeping and I’m hungry. But Sam has just called the stewardess to bring it to me so I will be happy again but I guarantee not for long.

1:30pm: “Excuse me ladies and gentlemen we are experiencing some turbulence, we hope it will not last longer than 10 minutes so please sit still” one of the staff cautioned us.

It actually lasted 12 minutes. I felt so uneasy as I just finished eating but everything is alright again. Sam was still holding my hand and I didn’t want to object. It calmed me down. Imagine we really had broken up. We wouldn’t be here and I wouldn’t feel his touch again. I won’t joke like that again.

1:45pm “Good news ladies and gentlemen the turbulence has stopped and we will be arriving in Vancouver in 40-50 minutes” a male steward announced and a few people clapped. Sam cuddled me and looked at my face before he smiled. I’ve got so many butterflies fluttering around right now. We have been solid for a good year and 8 months and still I keep feeling like we just got together. Unfortunately Tom asked to switch seats with me to have guy company for the rest of the flight hence I was now beside Joy.

Forty five minutes later, other passengers had started to put their things together as the pilot was beginning to land. I re-glossed my lips and put on my earring which fell off when I was sleeping. I got that little uncomfortable feeling at take off and landing. I breathed deeply five times then it was over. Everyone started to move into the pathway and queue to leave the plane. The staff welcomed us to Vancouver as were exiting and I held Sam’s hand. Joy, Jay and Tina did the same with each other while Max held Tom’s shoulders and Roger walked beside.

We went through security checks and then waited for our cab drivers. I went to a payphone with Tom to call our parents and everyone did the same one by one.

(Writer) Sam kept cuddling Sarah. Tina kept laughing with Joy, Jay, Max and Roger. Tom played on his game console, as they waited to be picked up.

(Me) After we settled in, there was a welcome presentation. The two managers told us about all the facilities in the resort, along with the ones Sam told us about. After they gave us dinner, we went around the resort and arranged how we will spend our first day.

“This place is so beautiful. Thank you for bringing us” I looked at Sam deeply in his eyes. “How can I not have fun with all of you being here? This will be the best trip, I promise. Let’s get some rest” Sam kissed my hand and we went to our rooms.

Chapter 3

August 11th (Thursday) First day of our trip started early with a full English/American breakfast. Afterwards we couldn’t move till 10am. We went to the sports hall to burn some fat. We couldn’t deny that the weather was gorgeous so we went to the beach to have a swim.

It was 1 o’clock when we were lying in the sun and we heard that there would be competitions. The boys and Jay took part while I, Joy and Tina roared with cheers. The competitions were tough but everyone won a medal.

After, Sam took me to have a walk on the coast while they played around the sea and Tom played on his console.

By 3pm Sam was standing behind me. He kept making me kick sand. It once got into an elderly woman’s face and I apologised. Sam laughed so I chased him. Then I could hear distant screaming and saw it came from where Tom was standing. I ran back to investigate, “is there a problem here?” “Sarah, he started kicking little children’s sandcastles and I told him that wasn’t nice and he started making fun of my Nintendo” Tom expressed displeasure with what he saw. “I had to because your one is absolutely rubbish and mine is 10x better” the kid defended himself. “No it’s not, it’s stupid like you!” Tom yelled. “Tom calm down” I supposed. “Mine is better and you know it and you’re a baby” the kid teased my brother. “Hey leave my brother alone. If your one is better go and play on it with your friends” I told him. He kept quiet. “Or do you not have friends because you’re a bully?” I asked. “I do have friends, they’re not here!” Tom got a game notification. “Wait, I know that sound. Is that Extreme Mega Rush 300?” The bully asked. “Yeah” Tom stated. “Ok I do have the best Nintendo but you have the best game” the bully backed down. “Thanks, do you wanna play?” Tom invited him. “Yeah, let’s play it by the ice cream truck and get a free one” the boys rushed off.

“Sorry for that disruption guys” I said to my friends as I travelled back. “You have nothing to be sorry for” Jay stated. “You defended Tom, you’re the best sister” Joy added and Sam held my shoulders. “Let’s forget all about it and go on the town” Joy suggested and we went to our rooms to change.

(Writer) The teen gang had taken pictures of attractions and them selves and discovered how busy Vancouver was. Although when the gang split up they were still able to find each other again. The reality of the attractiveness of the town was more than the picture that had been placed in their minds. They found that Vancouver wasn’t like other places in the world where they would need a tour guide. Detours were taken whenever desired.

The young adults went back to the beach to pick Tom for dinner at a new restaurant. “Come on Tom we’re going for dinner” Sarah told her sibling. “Guys you should stay, my dad is doing a barbecue in 30 minutes” Eddie made us aware. “Yeah Sarah let’s do that. We can go tomorrow” Tom wanted to change the plan. “Is everyone okay with that?” Sarah wanted to check. “Yep that’s fine we got plenty of time” Sam made his girlfriend relax. “Okay no problem” Sarah accepted. “I’m gonna go to the cocktail shack” Sam notified them all.

“Hey man drink much?” A guy saw the amount of cups in Sam’s hand. “(laughs) This for me and all my friends” Sam appreciated the joke. “That drink looks good, is that cranberry vodka fusion?” the guy wondered. “Nah just watermelon with red grape, I don’t drink” Sam had not introduced himself yet. “Nothing at all?” He raised his eyebrow. “I’m Sam and no I don’t do it” Sam reinforced. “Let me guess, you are a Christian” the other guy assumed. “Yeah” Sam replied. “That is another thing that bugs me, you are restricted from doing what you want and I’m Greg” Sam listened intently to Greg. “No man it is the best thing that happened to me, I feel so free. I don’t need to worry if my friends turn against me or my girlfriend leaves me. I will be alright because God loves me the most” Sam proudly stated. “I’m sorry man, that almost sounds cheesy, like a fairy-tale without an ending” Greg gave his view. “Why do you say that?” Sam was interested to find out. “We can talk about that tomorrow but for now let’s enjoy the music and chill. So where is your girlfriend?” Greg changed the subject. “Over there in the white dress and dangly earrings” Sam happily pointed out.. “Take me to her and your friends but you might want to get a tray for the drinks” Greg suggested. “Yeah, you’re right” Sam took a tray then took his new acquaintance to his friends.

(Me) Hey how’s it going, we all got to meet Sam’s new friend then we danced and danced. Then we had a midnight dip in the pool and played treasured hunt. We were having so much fun acting like children. We knew that after a little longer our parents would be breathing down our necks to get us to sleep but we weren’t in the least bit tired. Even Tom was still wide awake.

Greg took the guys to play snooker and the girls and I wanted to watch a movie. As we got closer this guy bumped into Jay because he was walking backwards (at least Sam is good at it). “I’m so sorry, I’m so silly and careless” the guy apologised. “It’s ok, you were probably having fun you lost your sense of direction” Jay reacted calmly. “Look at me. I would say the same thing and yet I’m doing it pardon me. I’m Russell” the guy introduced. “It’s really okay, put it behind you, not literally though. I’m Jay. I’m here at this resort” Jay smiled. “Obviously alone” Russell put forward what he thought he saw. “No with my friends and cousin Joy” Jay added. “Nice to meet the gang, hopefully I’ll see you tomorrow at some point” he started to sound nervous. “If this is where you are staying, you will see me too many times, later” Jay affirmed. We left the scene “Oo Jay I’ve never seen this look in your eye” Joy had spotted. “What look?” Jay asked. “You think he’s cute” Joy said. “Yeah I do and what?” Jay asked. “And what?” Joy came back. “Hopefully you will see him tomorrow and he will ask to hang out with you” Tina joined in the conversation. When we got to the movie room, we settled quickly and watched a movie.

August 12th

Morning. I never expected to get any calls in the resort but one of the receptionists called and told me Sam was waiting for me outside the spa. The girls were so happy with jealousy. “Have fun” they said and virtually kicked me out of my room. I didn’t care though because I was going to spend the morning and afternoon with my baby.

“Hey babe, so who recommended this?” I questioned him. “They did” I looked in the direction he was pointing at. Sam led me to the entrance and we were both given a personal assistant who stood around and carried our stuff wherever we wanted. For the whole time it felt like we were having valentines day. Come back to me later I feel too relaxed.

(Writer) Sam and Sarah got to enjoy each other’s company. Russell saw Jay again and he flirted with her more boldly. They were in deep conversation when he was rushed off by his parents. He came back briefly to invite Jay to a show. The rest were keeping themselves busy.

Some hours went by and Sam and Sarah came near the beach area when they saw Greg. “Hey I was just gonna invite you to come with my friends for dinner” Sam stated. “Oh thanks but I have to go and visit my aunt and cousin but tomorrow I’m inviting you to enter into a tournament, you up for it?” Greg posed. “Of course we can even go right now” Sam mindlessly quoted. “Sam!” Sarah exclaimed. “Let’s start tomorrow at 10am. Please bring your A game” Greg tried to patronise Sam. “(Laughs) I will do” Sam certified. “See you tomorrow” Greg announced his departure. “Sam you were actually going to leave me for a tournament” Sarah whacked him. “No I wasn’t” Sam cuddled her neck.

(Me) At 6:30pm my friends and brother went to the restaurant as planned the day before and shared more banter. Day two is in competition with day one and I can’t wait for the final results. When we all said good night to each other I went to Joy’s room to sleepover since the next day everyone was going to be fully occupied and of course she is my bestie. We planned to go shopping and take photos and after we decided to look for something different for all of us in the evening which was ice skating. Goodnight for now.

Chapter 4 : August 13th

The next day everyone had started off their plans. Everyone had their version of quality time. All of the gang wanted to enjoy not being with everyone but individual mates. They were excited to go ice skating in the evening as a group. Jay spent more hours with Russell but it was still cut short. Jay didn’t want to get too attached because she knew she’d be leaving in a few days. Also she was not fond of the idea of long distance relationships. Unfortunately this would be news to Russell.

All the teens had fun in their plans and at ice-skating and decided to order room service for the night. They did other things till they were ready to call it a day.

A time came when Greg struggled to sleep and knocked on Sam’s door, to play badminton and Sam agreed.

“So before about this God thing, why are you so sure that He exists?” Greg questioned Sam. “Because I’ve experienced Him and I have strong faith” Sam gave his answer. “That sounds too simplistic, if it was like that as soon as I became a Christian, He would give me everything” Greg assumed. “No it’s the opposite, He loves you and that’s why you don’t get everything. He’s not unfair. Life is unfair” Sam supposed. “Sorry man, I think you’re wrong. He does not love me and He only wants to ruin my fun” Greg criticised. “Okay well God is patient. Maybe one day you might see what I am saying. Now let’s play real play, no more nice Sam” Sam dared Greg. “Bring it on” they played for 4 hours straight.

At 9:45am the visitors of Stanley Park resort were ready to spend their fourth day in Vancouver. Once again they were not going to be altogether for the day. Sarah was going to take Tom to a fun fair and the Vancouver Police Museum for some sibling quality time. Joy and Jay were enthusiastic about walking across the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and they were going to have lunch at the Chambar Restaurant, a Belgian cuisine. Sam, Roger and Greg still wanted to play sports but they gave themselves a break and went to the Maritime Museum. Finally Max and Tina went to explore Granville Island which was known for dining and culture.

Sam, Greg and Roger were the first ones to make their way back to the resort. This time, Sam did not allow Greg to decline his offer to have dinner with the gang. So Sam booked the table and waited for his friends.

“Hey honey” Sarah kissed the son of Mr Jones’ cheek 15 minutes later and sat down with everyone.

They had dinner and shared stories about themselves and made Greg and Russell feel welcome.

(Me) I kept watching Russell smile at Jay beside her and Jay slightly smiling. When Sam did the same towards me I stopped focusing on her.

(Writer) Russell kept trying to hold Jay’s hand and she let go. Half an hour later, he showed a message to Jay to follow him outside.

Five minutes after, “okay Jay you have to tell me what’s going on and stop making me guess. You don’t like me do you?” Russell looked at Jay. “I have some bad news. I like you and you are charming and cute. I just don’t want to encourage a long distance relationship and I just wanted to enjoy my time here” Jay confessed. “Well then I actually have good news for you, I’m leaving to go back to Illinois. I thought it was fate or something that brought us here but if that is all you feel I’ll say my goodbye now” Russell kissed Jay on her cheek and walked towards his room. ”Russell wait” Jay hugged him and he was sad to let her go. “We’ll meet again” Russell answered. “Hope so” Jay smiled.

Jay felt sad getting to the end of the day but cheered up when her cousin and friends distracted her.

Two days later

Today was the day that the visitors were due to leave Vancouver. All the teens slept in till 10am but were woken up by the receptionist informing them of a brunch which they left for just after 11am.

At 1pm, they took pictures around the whole resort, packed their things and went on a boat ride at the Lost Lagoon. Heading towards 5pm, they were driven to the airport.

Once they all had checked in, they waited till they had to board the plane. “Oh babe why do good things have to come to an end?” Sarah started to feel down. “Babe because we have to go back to the real world” Sam wanted to sound serious. “I said it will be awesome and it was, maybe if I said we were gonna stay here forever it would have been so” Sarah stated. “I’m glad you didn’t, it would be too much. Sweetie, we had a great time but it has to end. The memories will still stay and one thing I can guarantee is we will never come to an end” Sam kissed his girlfriend’s forehead and she squeezed him.

At 5:10pm all passengers for Summerfield airport were seated in the plane. The plane was due to leave at 5:40pm but it had been announced that it will be pushed to 5:55pm. No one complained as they brought an extra tray of snacks for the passengers.

(Me) A few minutes before the plane took off we joined hands and prayed for a safe journey. The flight attendant went through all the essential checks and announcements. He apologised on behalf of the pilot for the delay and told us when we are expected to arrive in Summerfield. The plane shortly after took off and I felt my stomach turn so I placed my hand in Sam’s. When it was over Sam still squeezed my hand so that I wouldn’t let go and I smiled at him. For the flight me, Sam, Tina and Roger watched a film and the other four kept themselves busy. We did all we could to pass the time.

Two hours to our expected arrival time, we were brought beverages and normal set of snacks.

(Writer) At 8:30pm every passenger was asleep. For those who were awake there was a message that there was 1 hour and 15 minutes left of the journey.

(Me) At the moment it is 9:55pm but this time everyone waited for the plane to land before they got up (smart move).

10:10pm-Now we are all once again queueing to exit the plane. As we approached the arrivals hall I and Sam were swinging our arms. I really don’t think he wants me to ever stop thinking he adores me. Unfortunately, he needed to use the loo and I was not planning to follow him and make middle aged guys scream like 3 year olds.

15 minutes from then, I called Sam’s dad to ask how far he was from the airport. He told me he had just got in from work, that he would freshen up and leave. We all went to explore the touristy part of the airport.

Chapter 5

My boyfriend’s dad came just after 20 to 12pm and we placed all our luggage in the boot of the mini van and sat in.

One by one Sam’s dad dropped us off. As soon as we got to my house he carried Tom to his room and I closed the door behind him.

The next day moved so swiftly to the early afternoon. “Hey Tom, how did you find Vancouver?” I greeted my brother and asked his opinion on the trip. “It was so awesome, thank you for taking me along. What we having for lunch?” Tom queried. “I’m going to make you jacket potato roast since last time mum and dad were out of the house I promised you” I kept my promise. “But I want that artichoke thing you made instead” Tom made it clear to me. “We don’t have all the right ingredients” I told him. “We can go and buy them” Tom was thrilled about. “Really, you wanna go with me?” I wanted him to reassure me. “Yeah” Tom simply answered. “Okay get your shoes” Tom ran up the stairs with caution. Then Sam called me “hi” “hi I’m so bored what are you doing?” Sam inquired. “About to go out and get things for a meal” I told him my plan. “Can I come along too?” He really sounded bored. “Hold on. Tom is it alright if Sam comes with us?” I saw him walking down the stairs. “Yep” Tom accepted. “Sam meet us at my junction” I hung up.

At the store I tore off half the list for the boys to bring and I did the rest. When they arrived at the checkout, Sam’s phone vibrated and he didn’t sound pleased, “oh no”. “What is it Sam?” I was curious. “I just had a reminder about a theory test tomorrow and need to revise” Sam explained. “So do you have to go now?” I needed to check. “No, I’ll take the stuff with you to your house, then leave after. So he did just that.

The next day Sam revealed to me he passed his test and I congratulated him. Then he asked me to go somewhere to celebrate. At the same time my mum sent me a text that she needed to ask us an important question when she got home. So I replied to him that we could go after which he didn’t mind.

(Writer) At 6pm the family were sitting with each other. “Kids, I would like to ask you and your dad how would you feel if we had a new baby in the house?” Charlotte boldly asked. “That is a horrible idea” Tom answered his mother. “Dad how would you feel about it?” Sarah inquired. “I want to know yours and your brother’s opinion first” Kirk said. “Well you know Tom’s but I would be over the moon and I know it will make mum very cheerful as well. Don't listen to Tom, dad" Sarah alleged. "No Sarah his opinion is just as important as yours. If he is not happy about it then we will leave it at that" Kirk settled. Charlotte tried to hide her disappointment.

The week after Charlotte Smith, had returned home from work in the late afternoon. As no one was home she rested on the couch. The day when Tom was a few months and Sarah was 7 and walking beside her holding her mum's hand trespassed on her peace of mind. Tears started to trickle down her face and after every few minutes she brushed it off her face.

Kirk came home early to surprise his wife, saw her lying on the couch and went to greet her. "Hello my queen" she wiped her face and sat up "hi Kirk". "Have you been crying?" Kirk was in disarray over his wife's reaction to his well thought out surprise. "No I’m fine" she tried to fake a smile. "My dear one what is wrong?" Kirk began to investigate. "I really want a baby but Tom is not on board" Charlotte Smith let out. "I know and I want one too so let's do it" Kirk pushed himself into a court case. "So Sarah's thoughtfulness doesn't matter?" Charlotte concluded. "I haven't said that Charlotte, have I?" Kirk asked back. "Yes, when Sarah was thinking about what would make me happy but Tom was concerned with his insecurity. If what I want won't make you happy and this will be a burden let’s just forget it" Charlotte stated. "No sweetheart I didn’t mean that. Can we start this again?" Kirk felt a do over was best. "No because it would mean going far away from me back to your office" Charlotte thought was pointless. "I am completely willing to do that" Kirk volunteered. "It's not necessary" Charlotte was less than impressed. "I will do it. I will go all the way to the office and come back and start again" Kirk promised and left.

An hour later Mr Smith returned to his wife. "My sweetheart please forgive my insensitivity. I want us to have a baby so that our family will begin to grow and mature" Kirk spoke. "It's tiring to think that we have to start again and wait for 18 years to be free" Charlotte exaggerated her groan. "I'm ready for that and I will be here to support you. Please my sweetheart" Kirk pleaded. "What about..?" Charlotte didn't want to forget. "Tom is probably just scared that he will be ignored but when the baby comes he will warm up to him or her" Kirk planned. "Are you sure?" Charlotte wanted to make sure "yes let's have a baby!" Charlotte smiled joyously.

(Writer) The next day, the children were at their friends' houses for sleepovers and Mr and Mrs Smith had the house to themselves. They shared a bottle of non-alcoholic drink, ate some dinner and danced all night. They were attracted to each other all over again and they were very happy.

Chapter 6

The next morning Kirk made breakfast in bed for his wife but before she could start eating he kissed her. Following that, he fed her a piece of sausage and he was fed the other half. "Hi mum! Hi dad!" Sarah yelled as she went inside her room.

When the couple were done eating, Kirk took the plate downstairs to wash it and run an errand before buying some things for the house.

As soon as the door opened and closed, Sarah went to her mother’s room, knocked and went in, "hey mum" "hi Kimmy, how was the sleepover?" Charlotte inquired. "It was fun, Joy tripped on her shoe and I couldn't stop laughing" her only daughter didn’t hide. "That's not nice Sarah" Kirk’s wife disapproved of. "I told her to move it but she did not listen. Anyway, she didn't hurt herself and even laughed about it. That is one of the reasons I love her name because it depicts who she is" Miss Smith declared. “My scholar" Mrs Smith put her palm in her daughter’s chin. "(giggles) She hardly gets upset, always has a smile on her face and always lifts my mood" Tom’s sister expressed. "You know how to get me excited and yes her parents did gave her a wonderful name. Her mum and I chose your names at the same time" Sarah’s mum told her daughter. "Wow that's cool" the daughter approved of. "You could have been Joy but Sarah felt right. You also are a big joy to us and I wouldn't change your name for nothing" Charlotte alleged. "Thank you mum but you can't hide it" Sarah said "hide what?" Mrs Smith required innocently. "That you're pregnant" Sarah believed, "how did you know?" her mother inquired. "I know how much you want a baby and when you said you were excited" Tom’s sister worked out. "No I meant because you used smart words" the mother put down the suggestion. "Sure it was mum" Sarah reluctantly accepted, "okay maybe partly but I haven't checked to see. I hope you are right. I'm worried about Tom though" Tom’s mother groaned for her son. "Don't be mum he is only a child, the baby of the family and he probably just feels threatened" Miss Smith believed. "You are your father’s child, he said the same thing" Mrs Smith made her know. "Okay then be calm and relax, he will get over it and congratulations" Sarah hugged her mum and walked to the door. "Don't tell Tom, please" Sarah nodded her head.

Two weeks drifted by and the parents got ready to announce the news to the children. "Kids, come down please!" Kirk shouted. "I'm nervous Kirk" Kirk’s partner in life voiced. "Don't be butterfly, it will be fine" Kirk squeezed her hand and she held on to it for comfort. "Kids have a seat” Mr Smith watched his children get comfortable before he continued. “We wanted to tell you that your mum is pregnant and in the next 9 months you will have a baby brother or sister". "I don't want there to be another child!" Tom protested. "Calm down son" Tom’s dad replied, "no!" He ran upstairs and Kirk followed him. "I hope I will have a little sister. Now that it’s confirmed can I tell Sam and Joy?" Miss Smith entreated. "Yes Sarah" Charlotte said, feeling distressed "they're calling me right now later mum" Sarah told her and left. The pregnant mum, half relieved waited for her husband to return to her.

At 7:10pm Mr Smith came to accompany his wife again and she was hoping for a good report. “Is he okay now?” Tom’s mother looked forward to hearing. “He is” her husband did not mean wholeheartedly. “What happened?” Charlotte demanded. “I left him to cry” Kirk had to be tough. “See Kirk I told you” Charlotte commented. “My blossom, he’ll be ok just let him absorb it. Let me make you some tea” she sat quietly and waited for her beverage.

May 15th marked the end of her first trimester and Charlotte had just returned from her first check up. She saw her son coming down the stairs "hi Tommie are you okay?" Charlotte implored her son. "Yes mum how was your day?" Tom enquired. "Fine thank you would you like to watch some cartoons with me?" Tom nodded and joined her on the sofa.

As they watched, Tom looked at his mother's belly "so the baby is in your stomach?" He asked to know. "Yes darling, six months left" "oh" the youngest family member remarked. "Do you have any more questions?" Mrs Smith wanted to offer clarity. "I just want to know why you want to have a baby. Is it because Sarah and I don't make you happy and you are bored?" Tom asked. "Faaaar from that. Take that out of your mind" Charlotte was glad that Tom was open. "Okay but I am scared that you will just ignore me and use all your time for your baby" Sarah’s brother affirmed his sister’s and dad’s thoughts. "You will always be my baby and no one can replace you" Tom’s mother made a pledge, "but I don't want another sister" Tom complained. "You may have a brother but whatever happens it just means that our family will be stronger so cheer up okay" the pregnant mother tried to cheer him up. "Okay mum" they continued to watch cartoons.

The next month the Smith family were at the table having general discussion. "We need to get a bigger table" Tom blurted out unexpectedly. "Why son?" Kirk questioned. "So that our baby brother can sit by me" Tom imagined. "If we have a sister she will sit by me" Sarah chose her words. "Well, we're having a brother" Tom assumed. "No we're not" Tom’s sibling responded. "Yes, we are" Tom argued "no we're not, mum tell him we're not" Sarah urged her mother. "Sarah, we are having a boy" Kirk’s wife dropped into the conversation. "Why did you tell Tom and not me?" Sarah thought was unfair. "Honey, we didn't tell him. He was just guessing and you had to find out together" Mrs Smith reasoned. "I wanted a sister" the oldest sister whinged. "Now you know how it feels" Tom claimed "shut up Tom!" Sarah issued a stern command. "Sarah language please" Kirk told her "I don't want a brother" Sarah stormed upstairs. "Do you wanna talk to her or should I?" Kirk looked his wife's way "just leave her" Charlotte ignored her daughter.

By the next week, Sarah had not spoken to her family for some days and was venting to her friends on her phone. "I can't believe they didn't tell me before Tom" Sarah moaned then Sarah couldn't hear her friends because her mum was ringing her. Sarah grouchily picked it up but didn’t talk. "Sarah please come downstairs so we can have a woman to woman chat" Sarah grudgingly trampled downstairs and sat near her mum.

"Sarah, before you were so happy and supportive about the new baby but now it's changed why?" Charlotte felt like hearing her side of the story. “I don't know I have always wished for a baby sister and I already have a brother" Tom’s sister moaned. "What is bad about having a baby brother?" Mrs Smith wanted to know. "Nothing" the daughter responded plainly. "They're also cute you know" Charlotte tried to buy her daughter’s change of heart. “I know but when they grow up they are just messy and annoying" Miss Smith gave further detail. "Remember Sam is also a boy is he messy?" The mother of 2 questioned. "At times" she admitted, "please Sarah have an open mind. Your new brother may surprise you and I know you will be a great role model for him" Charlotte claimed. "You're only saying that so that I cheer up" Sarah hypothesized. "Only partly but also I would love to go baby shopping with you. Before, I went with your dad, don't make me have to go with him again, please" Sarah laughed. "Fine" Charlotte held her daughter.

Chapter 7

The second trimester of Charlotte's pregnancy excited her with mood swings and hunger pangs. "Sarah!..Sarah!" "Yes mum" "make me some porridge please" "okay" Sarah immediately accepted the request.

Five minutes later "Sarah where's my porridge?" Charlotte queried "Almost done" Sarah spoke. "Just bring it wherever you have got to and I need water please" Charlotte didn’t want to use her emotions as an excuse to forget her manners. Sarah fetched water and took it. “Just bring the porridge now" Sarah put a spoon and on a tray and served it. "Why did you bring it, it is still runny" Charlotte demanded. "You asked me to bring it" Sarah defended herself "I don't want it again I want a lemon scone, make me a lemon scone" Sarah went to the kitchen and soon heard her mum crying and was confused. "Mum what is it?" Sarah enquired, "nothing...owww contraction" Sarah held her hand. "Am fine make sure you tidy the kitchen and throw the porridge away it was disgusting" Mrs Smith didn’t mind the effect of her words. "You didn't even eat any" Sarah tried to not be offended "you didn’t make it right" Sarah’s mum accused her.

Charlotte was feeling emotional hour to hour. She kept making Sarah feel erratic and when she went upstairs she never came down again. When she was called she instead called her boyfriend to complain.

When Kirk arrived, he also received a bitter part of Charlotte but she then calmed down. Before she slept she went to apologize to her daughter. Mrs Smith knocked on the door and went in. "Kimmy, I’m sorry for how I acted today, being pregnant is making me feel all these emotions. Please don't be upset with me this is the part of pregnancy that isn't fun" Mrs Smith supposed. "I understand" Sarah accepted. "Remember this when you get there" Charlotte advised her first born. "Oh dear" the daughter commented, "you can control them and I will try, do you forgive me?" Charlotte hoped for. "Always, but if you ask me for something let me finish doing it" Sarah wanted her mum to promise. "I will, darling" Charlotte pecked her cheek and went to her room to sleep.

When it got to just a little over a month and a half to the anticipated due date, the Smiths started to prepare themselves for the baby’s arrival. Charlotte and Sarah were getting ready for baby shopping and Sarah was talking to Sam "babe I have to go now and look for my mum's keys". "Okay sweet kimmy, bye” he responded. "bye baby boo I love you" she cut the call and went downstairs to get the car key and help her mother to the car. 10 minutes later the ladies left the driveway.

Mother and daughter had an exciting and exhausting day baby shopping but managed to get all the necessities including a top Sarah bought on behalf of her boyfriend. When they got home all the family packed the stuff away in the tiny spare room and had family time. On the side-line Sarah messaged her friends.

The time came when Charlotte felt a series of contractions and it was time to check in to the hospital and her children wished her well.

Charlotte and Kirk Smith both had to bear the changing frequency of the contractions. When they thought it was going to be over they still had to wait. They both fell asleep but Charlotte was woken up by an intense contraction. Then Charlotte almost squeezed the life out of her husband's hand and he woke up. He didn't whimper but helped his wife "aaaaaaah!" Charlotte bellowed and the midwife and doctor came in to deliver the baby. Kirk held his wife's shoulders, "Kirk hold my hand" his wife told him and when he did he felt the pain. Then he went back to holding her shoulders. "Kirk hold my hand" Charlotte repeated. "Mr Smith would you please hold your wife's hand so we can deliver this baby" Kirk succumbed to the pressure and the pain but in a few minutes their baby was born and they smiled with relief.

After the baby was cleaned and wrapped the midwife returned him to the parents. "Congratulations on the birth of your son. Do you have a name for him?" The doctor required. "Yes, Carl" Kirk jumped in. "You didn't tell me Kirk" Charlotte was left out. "I thought I did, what would you like to call him?" Kirk requested. "No I like Carl. We have a child with 5 letters, 3 letters and now 4 letters in their name" Charlotte counted. "Welcome to the world, Carl Anderson Smith. Congratulations once again and well done for giving in Sir" Kirk knew what the doctor meant. "Thank you doctor. You have delivered all our children safely" Kirk said. "We thank God" the doctor supposed. "Are you a believer doc?" Kirk presumed. "No but I know you are" the doctor said. "Can we pray for you?" Kirk took the bull by the horns. The doctor came to bow his head. "Thank you Lord for our doctor's life. He has looked after our family and many others for years. May you also look after his family and bless them in Jesus name amen" Kirk prayed. "Amen" the doctor joined in. "Thanks again doc" the doctor smiled and left. Mr and Mrs Smith decided to stay in the hospital for a couple of days to have some alone time with their baby.

Three days after, Carl was awake and making noises from his bed while Charlotte was getting ready to go home. Kirk was coming back to the room with hot chocolate for his wife when his phone rang and almost spilled some. So he rushed to give it to her and the ringing stopped. he found out it was his boss and he called him back, "yes sir" "where have you been? I have been calling you since 9" Kirk's boss didn't sound happy. "Still in the hospital" Kirk informed his boss. "Oh your wife has given birth? Congratulations but you need to come to work" the boss commanded. "I'm getting ready to bring them home and I will be there" Kirk assured his boss. "How long would that take?" His boss didn't sense any insensitivity in his speech. "2 hours sir" Kirk rejoined. "Fine see you then" the boss hung up. Then his daughter called "hi dad when are you coming home?" Sarah asked. "We're leaving now" Kirk told her. "Okay I've tidied the whole house and we are ready to see him" Sarah announced. "Thank you Sarah we will see you soon" Kirk cut the call.

Chapter 8

3 weeks later

(Writer) It unusually felt to the students from Summerfield High that it was Saturday. They knew they had to expect homework for every subject two days after, all to be returned on the same day. However they took it to be less pressuring. It put them awkwardly in anticipation to see their teachers faces at the beginning of the following week. Nonetheless they quickly without much ado allowed their social plans and obligations to overtake them. The not completely new parents were reliving some of their nightmares and dreams after children altogether.

The Hope family, excluding Jay, had their lunch at half past 1. Jay went to top up her oyster card, before eating knowing she may forget. Jay entered the shop when a guy bumped into her as he left the shop and turned to say “oops”. “It’s alright” Jay ignored the bump. ”At least you didn’t say ouch right?” The stranger waited for a reply. “Right” he smiled and walked on.

“Do you know him?” The shopkeeper required. “No” Jay said. “He’s Eric, nice guy, never watches where he walks but he has managed to bump into you” the man spoke to Jay. “Just a coincidence, I suppose. Can you put on £15 on please?” She handed him her card. “You planning to go out a lot huh?” The man assumed. “No just wanna be prepared” he was answered. “£10 is more than enough” he tried to make her save money. “It’s ok £15 please” she took her money out. Her card was charged and she left to walk home.

The next day came and Jay was out, where she heard a guy’s loud conversation. She tapped his shoulder and he shouted “What?!! I mean hi” his tone of voice changed towards Jay. “I don’t think you want people to hear your conversation so just lower your voice just a smidge” Jay advised. “Just go away!!” He yelled and turned off the call. “I promise, I didn’t hear any of your conversation but is everything okay?” Jay asked. “Not really, my ex was getting me angry and I intended to put my phone off. But I can’t because my baseball coach will call me soon. Then I have to make my way to the park. “Oh, before that would you like to get an ice cream just to help you unload?” He was given a suggestion. “With you or alone?” Eric wondered. “Either with me or I can direct you, your choice” Jay said. “With you but not without knowing your name” Eric tried being smart. “Jay” she introduced herself. “Eric” the guy said. “I know” Jay stated. “From who?” Eric inquired. “The shopkeeper” Jay replied. “What did he say?” The guy wanted to know. “Just your name and that you never pay attention to the road” the girl revealed. “That’s true, I’m just in my world sometimes. Now I know your name we can go, lead the way Jay” the two teens walked on.

At the ice cream parlour, Jay bought two ice creams and they sat at a table. They conversed till Eric’s coach called and they parted ways.

10 minutes after

“Eric, you came quicker than I thought, I thought you were at home” Eric’s coach watched him walk towards the benches. “No I was around here” Eric provided little information. “Oh right. Well Timmy is doing his routine preparation” Eric was informed. “He has many which one is it?” Eric desired to be caught up to speed. “The one where he calls his girlfriend from the locker room, wait for her to give the 5 minute warning so they get there at the same time” the coach clarified. “Coach that wastes training time” the son of Mr Livingston made him aware. “Ah as long as he keeps winning points for us. So Eric where is your girlfriend?” The attention was turned to him. “You know I don’t have one” the captain of the team asserted. “It’s just everyone who could be used as our secret weapon either have a girlfriend or a lady with them” Mr Anson banks wanted to make a point. “Yet I’ve managed to score over 3000 points since the year started without a girlfriend” Eric matched his point. “Fair play but I know you have more potential which can be boosted by a girl cheering for you” Mr Anson-Banks responded. “I don’t need a girl who will be a cheerleader, I can do without it” the team captain was sure. “I know but she can give you momentum, anyway just sleep on it alright. It can even be Sandra, you don’t have to talk to her” the head of the Euston Dippers compromised. “Then you are wishing for two different things, that I play well and we win or I get angry and give points to the opposition” Eric argued. “Alright. Timmy is here so go and warm up the team” Eric left his coach’s presence.

Chapter 9

Two weeks after

It had got to two weeks after Eric and Jay had officially met. They had been each other’s company several times. Eric came to wait for Miss Parker outside her school, to spend time with her before his practice. “Hi, Eric is it?” Jay expressed her sense of humour in a diverse manner. “Yeah and uh Parker right” he ambiguously pointed at her. “Miss Parker actually” she set him straight. “My mistake, are you ready to go to our spot? I’m yet to try their last flavour pecan cookie dough” he was hoping. “No, I’ll pass today” Miss Parker declined. “Oh you got stuff to do at home?” He asked. “No, it’s just if I have one more ice cream I will put on a piggy bank of pounds” Jay confessed. “Oh (laughs) can I walk you home instead?” Eric offered. “Yeah” Jay allowed.

Several minutes later Joy, Sam and Sarah walked out of the school hallway. “What you looking around for Joy?” Sarah questioned. “Jay, I haven’t seen her much lately” Joy kept darting her eyes. “She’s probably gone to see Eric again” Sarah answered. “I guess so but this new attitude is not Jay at all” Joy conveyed. “She doesn’t give you attitude” Miss Smith did not know what Joy was insinuating. “No, talking to a guy and spending time with him” Joy made clear. “Oh, she’s had guy friends though right?” Sam was considered a non participant of the conversation. “Yeah but not seeing them as frequently as this” Joy was surprised by. “She must be enjoying his company, try to stop missing her so much” Joy’s best friend could tell. “I don’t” Joy faced the ground. “Yes you do” Sam spoke up. “Oh, nice of you to join our conversation” Sarah remarked. “I didn’t think I was welcome” Sam replied. “Well thank God, you didn’t let that stop you” Joy giggled. “I’m sure we’ll meet her at home” Sarah volunteered her certainty. “No she always comes at 4:40pm” Joy had noticed. “You count the minutes, wow, stalker” Sam teased her. “Shut up, you can go now, you’re not welcome” Joy told him. “Ouch see you stalker” Sam said. “Bye dude” Joy changed to a high tune. “Bye dude” echoed Sarah. “No babe” Sam rejected. “Bye honey” she hugged her boyfriend and they left him to cross to the other side.

When the best friends turned up at Joy’s house, Joy took her bag upstairs and placed Sarah’s bag in the cloakroom.

“See she’s still not here yet” Joy concluded. “Look that’s them coming now” Sarah saw.

(Outside) “So you got any big games coming up?” Jay beseeched. “Yeah that’s why our training sessions have been extended for half an hour. We will train for the rest of the week, then it’s on Monday afternoon” the guy drew out for her. “How exciting! I really like baseball, it’s so cool” Jay mentioned. “Oh, do you want to come to my practice?” Jay was invited. “Really?” Jay thought it was something he’d joke about. “Yeah” he meant. “Yeah” Eric led her to the training ground.

(Back, in Joy’s house) “Wait, where did they go?” Joy could not spot them. “Relax Joy, let’s have some snacks, she’s fine” Joy’s arm was pulled into her kitchen.

The son of Mr Livingston and the niece of Mrs Hope entered the training ground. While Eric went to find his coach, Jay sat on the right side of the benches. “Eric, you came and brought a girl like I advised. Now winning is not your only momentum, what’s the deal?” The head coach interrogated his star player. “She’s Jay and that is it” Eric answered back. “Alright. Now this is not just training practise but practice to win. This is your moment. Forget about everyone else. Look back at her and back then score, my star player” he spoke loudly. “Eric, did you really ask me to come along so I can watch or just to show off to your teammates. “I want you to watch me” Eric said. “So why did I hear your coach say forget about everyone, this is your moment?” Jay summarised. “Last time he suggested I bring a girl so she could cheer me on but I have confidence in my ability. So your coming here has nothing to do with what he said alright?” Jay was promised. “Eric you invited her to watch your game?” Sandra requested. “Let’s go over there..I really want you to be here because I like being around you and you’ve turned down the ice-cream parlour” Eric tried to make a joke. “Listen Eric, I’m not a girly girl and I’m not interested in being a girlfriend so if this is what you think it is I wanna go home” Jay ignored the joke. “Jay I like hanging out with you at our spot which now we have to change. You are a cool girl and I mean that. You don’t have to feel how you don’t want to feel even if it means you don’t feel like hanging out with me” Eric changed his tone. “I like you” Jay said. “You what?” Eric looked at her. “I mean I like hanging out with you” Jay corrected. “So are you leaving or not?” Eric prepared for the answer he wanted. “I will stay, you can go back to the team” Eric smiled and listened to her.

(Over at the Smith household) Charlotte was holding Carl close to her chest while he was being burped. Tom ran down the stairs, “mum can I play with him now?” Tom asked for the 2nd time. “Tom I just fed him, wait a little while longer” Mrs Smith told him to wait. “How much is a little?” Tom wondered. “Until he burps completely, unless you’d like to do it” his mum offered. “No way” Tom refused. “Why not?” Charlotte patted Carl’s back. “He might throw up on me” Tom was fearful. “He’s only done that once Tom” Carl had let one burp out. “I haven’t only asked once” he made his point. “True so be patient” Charlotte continued to hold Carl in an upright position.

An hour later Tom came down from his nap and he was given his brother to play with while Mrs Smith made dinner.

When Miss Smith arrived she sat next to her brothers and played with them until it was dinner time.

Mr Smith returned at his usual time. After eating, the family spent some quality time for a while before Tom went to play on his games.

Chapter 10

At the weekend, Eric phoned Jay and they had a general chat which featured their plans. “I really wish I can ask you to hang out but I have to look after my uncle’s horses at the stables and not many girls like it because of the smell and other things” Eric explained. “I do” Jay answered. “You like the smell?” Eric implored. “No I like horses, I’ve always wanted to ride one” Jay meant. “Oh, would you want to come and help me then?” Eric invited Jay. “Sure, when do you want me to be ready?” She accepted. “In like an hour?” He was prepared to extend. “I can do with 40 minutes” she cut down the time. “Wow!” The son of Mr Livingston exclaimed. “What?” She didn’t understand the source. “Nothing, 40 minutes it is, see you soon” Eric went off the line.

Forty two minutes after Eric came to knock on Joy’s door was when Jay and Eric arrived at the stables. They fed the horses that belonged to his uncle and started to wash and groom them, “so what are their names?” Jay inquired. “Twinkle, Bulldog and Sprinkles” Eric introduced them. “I hope he isn’t too rough with the others” Jay assumed. “There’s no he, they are all girls” he corrected her. “Oops we will not get on very well” Miss Parker felt embarrassed. “Nah, she’s friendly come here” Jay’s friend persuaded her. She walked to Bulldog and she moved her head to Jay and neighed loudly which made Jay panic. “(laughs) She’s only messing with you, don’t worry” Jay hugged Bulldog and started to groom her.

After 2 hours, the horses were nicely groomed and the stable was tidy. The teens got on Bulldog and Sprinkles after locking Twinkle in her stable. They both enjoyed riding the horses while talking.

“So apart from horses, what animal would you want to keep?” Eric questioned his female friend.”Ermm..” “And that your auntie would let you keep in the house?” He added a condition. “Oh rabbit, budgie, dog, tortoise, gerbil, I can go on all day really” Jay responded. “Those pets are boring. I think I shouldn’t have expected more from you” Eric criticised Jay. “Well then I am boring, so now Mr Big shot, what is the wildest animal for your parents to allow you to have at home and in your room” Jay made it tricky. “You got me there but I got a surprise for you, iguanas and porcupines. Here are two I have looked at recently” Eric showed Jay two pictures. “Wow, okay you are the winner by far and I am plain Jane. You shouldn’t ever wish to be on a deserted island with me or anything like that” Jay accepted. “I concur but other than that you are a great and adventurous girl” Jay was awarded with a compliment. “No one can be great, adventurous and boring” Jay believed. “No one except you. As for me apart from baseball no one will remember me” the son of Mr Livingston reckoned. “You are a nice and interesting guy. People will remember you because you raise the mood up wherever you’re at” she commended him. “Thanks, that was nice of you. So if you could have any weakness in the world what would it be?” Eric wanted them to bond more. “Rather a weird question, dunno how I can answer that” the girl hesitated. “Just think of it like you’re superwoman, what is your kryptonite?” Eric simplified. “Ok not so creepy, a worm on my favourite pizza which I was once almost served” Miss Parker answered. “No way!” He seemed intrigued. “Yeah I was at Freddo’s and a small boy brought his pet worm which ran loose. It remained near the pizza and because the chef did not have his glasses on he picked it up and was about to put it on my pizza when I stopped him” Eric’s friend retold. “Wow hope you sued him” Eric said. “Unfortunately no but he got a strike, so what is one of yours?” Eric had been inquired. “It has to be between only being allowed to score, with my hands tied behind my back and eating peach cobbler off a tiger” he gave her a visual image and she laughed. “Did that even come close to happening?” “No but it could (shivers)” he feared and Jay laughed again. “Now I’ve got a trickier question for you” Joy’s cousin threw to him. “Lay it on me” Eric was prepared. “What is your greatest difficulty or weakness that would take you long to overcome?” Miss Parker had slightly altered the focus of their conversation. “That is a tougher one, it’s one of two, either when I’m feeling lazy I use my mouth to open something I want to eat or going one day without fizzy drinks and having water. Tell me which one you think I will choose” Eric challenged her. “Fizzy drinks” she said. “You’re good” he commented and they kept conversing.

Chapter 11

On the day that followed the first time Jay and Eric had hung out for weeks, Eric messaged Jay. She sent one back to him but ignored the messages to lead to a conversation. On another occasion Eric called her and allowed it to ring more than 20 times before it could reach her voicemail. Miss Parker had not suddenly become hard of hearing but she wanted to avoid confrontation. Jay herself did not know the reason why she was behaving this way, except that this was normal for her.

At 12pm: “Hi Cherry, you still waiting for Eric before you watch your programme?” Jay’s cousin’s mum solicited. “No, it’s on break” Jay answered back. “Where’s Eric?” Miss Parker was asked. “He’s at his house” Mrs Hope received a plain response. “I thought you would have wanted to invite him to watch with you, since you both enjoy that show” Sarah’s oldest friend’s parent suggested. “I can enjoy it with or without him” the younger lady stated. “It’s nice to have someone who shares your interests, why don’t you give him a call?” Heather Hope reiterated. “I’m alright and I’m sure he has better things to do, I won’t delay him” Eric’s object of affection supposed “If that’s what you feel, alright dear” her aunt left in peace.

Joy Hope came to the living room after coming home from bonding with Sarah and Sam and witnessed Jay sitting faced away from the screen. “If you’ve finished your show can I watch TV?” Miss Hope beseeched. “No I’m still watching, you have to wait” the girl who was related to her forced. “You telling me, you have been watching this show all this while?” Joy wanted to clarify. “Yeah of course” Jay insisted. “So tell me what’s being going on in the ones you’ve watched” Joy put her to the test and Jay wore a blank face. “Exactly. You were probably interested in the first two or three times then you started to think about Eric because you really, really do like him” Joy worked out. “No I don’t. I don’t know where you get all your crazy ideas from. I really, really don’t” Jay alleged. “Jay stop feeling like you are not fooling yourself and just own up. You don’t want everyone to know which is fine but just be true to yourself and accept it both ways” the older family member was stern. “Stop being delusional and seeing what you want to see or make happen and stop saying I like him” Joy caught a glance of Jay’s arm. “Ok, you’re right I need to stop because your arm is doing all the talking, unless there is a new celebrity called Eric no surname. I will say that’s enough evidence” Joy indicated her reason for what she claimed. “You are wrong, I do not like him and I’m not like every girl and you fully well know it” Miss Parker expected. Joy left her cousin alone.

At another point in the week Mr Livingston Jr mindlessly made contact with Mrs Hope’s niece.

Later on, Eric received the text ‘I’m looking forward to it’ from Jay. Eric responded ‘you’re looking forward to..?’ Jay sent another text ‘the concert you invited me to’. Then Eric replied to the last text ‘when did I do that?’ Jay had received a different message. ‘Oh if you didn’t mean to invite me that’s fine’ Jay typed and sent to Eric then Eric sent another text back ‘no I want to but I didn’t think you would be interested’. Jay responded with ‘I am so if the offer is still good when should I get ready?’ Eric informed her by text ‘I will come there by 5 and we will get there a little before 6’. Jay closed the conversation with ‘okay see you soon Eric’.

Eric and Jay were really enjoying themselves and didn’t want the concert to end. Once it did they went to a nearby shop to buy ice cream. “My favourite has to be Mcneilson” Jay told Eric, “it’s not Mcneilson, he is McNeil’s son” Eric corrected Jay. “Oh my bad, don’t tell him I said that” Jay responded. “(laughs) You are safe don’t worry, so why do you like him, I think he tried too hard to make people laugh” Eric shared what he observed. “He did this bit ‘it’s embarrassing how you don’t know how embarrassing you are’” Eric laughed “you make him sound much funnier, I’m glad I invited you instead of my friend Jake” he didn’t want to deny. “It’s been a good night” Jay commented. “I really..” Eric couldn’t finish what he wanted to say. “Owww” Jay groaned “what’s wrong?” Mr Livingston’s son entreated Jay. “I suddenly have a headache, like pounding pain” Miss Parker explained. “It must be from when the music was so loud, let me take you home” Eric offered.

An hour later, Jay entered the Hope household, holding her head to make it realistic that she had a headache. “PJ what is wrong with you?” Mrs Hope asked. “Auntie I have a headache” alleged Jay, “aww should I bring you some paracetamol?” Mrs Hope wondered“ no I think I will just have an early night” Mrs Hope’s niece preferred. “Okay honey, will check on you in the morning, goodnight PJ” Mrs Hope said.

At 9pm Joy came to Jay’s room “give it up, Jay. You don’t need to pretend to this extent. You know how far my mum will go because she really believes you have a headache” Joy told her. “I do have a headache” Jay claimed. “No you don’t, you were at a show you’ve wanted to go to with a guy, who likes you and you’re suddenly back home” Joy added up. “Well, it did finish and he doesn’t like me, we’re only friends” Jay was naive. “You know he’s fond of you and he hangs out with you when he can. The bottom line is you know you’re not sick or have a headache and when I see my mum go to the extreme I’m telling her or you stop it now” Joy warned her.

The morning after Jay started to feel bad that she fooled her auntie. She prepared herself to come clean and to deal with the consequences “morning auntie Heather”. “I’m really in the mood for pancakes, are you in the mood for it as well?” Heather Hope requested. “No, I don’t want pancakes” the only Parker remaining couldn’t handle special treatment. “Ok, Joy would you like some pancakes?!” Her mother yelled. “Yes please!” Joy agreed. “Oh if it’s for everyone, I’ll have 4” Jay changed her mind. “Oh you normally ask for 6 but 4 is good as well” Joy’s mother went to make her special pancake mixture while Jay sat to find something to watch.

Chapter 12

When a few weeks had passed, Eric called Jay to make a request, “Jay hope you’re good. Can you help me make things right with Sandra?” Eric pleaded with Jay. “I thought she was your ex girlfriend” Jay recollected. “Yeah but I think I want to give her another chance, can you help me?” Eric inquired, “how?” Jay asked him. “Let’s meet up at the park and talk about it” Eric replied “ok” Jay allowed.

By 7pm Eric and Jay had met, “okay so first things first tell me exactly what happened between you and her” Jay prioritised. “Well before that I think I have to stop pretending” Eric began to come clean. “How are you pretending?” Jay asked “first that I am not happy that you came and second that I don’t want you to be interested in me” Eric answered. “What do you mean?” Jay wanted clarification “I want to stop pretending that I want to get back with Sandra just like you pretended to have a headache when I wasn’t done wanting to hang out with you the last time” Eric revealed her agenda. “I can’t believe you let me pretend like that and fooled me into thinking I was believable” Joy’s cousin least expected. “Well I knew you weren’t into the idea of boyfriends and girlfriends and so I guess you are only here because you did believe me not that you want to be my girlfriend” he figured. “I did believe you” Jay affirmed “sorry I pushed you out” Eric stated. “I didn’t come for it but I do wanna be your girlfriend” Jay reinstated. “Oh, okay can I be your boyfriend?” Eric rejoined. “Yeah” she answered. Eric pecked her cheek. “So should we go home now?” Jay wondered. “Yeah” the boy put his arm on the girl and she was half successful in hiding her emotions there and then.

When Jay got back to her house, Joy was fast asleep, she had a nap and went to tell her. Initially, Jay thought Joy was awake to listen but she heard no response so she left.

In the morning, Joy went to her cousin to say “morning Jay, so how does it feel?” Joy greeted. “How does what feel?” Jay answered. “To be Eric’s girlfriend” Joy clarified. “How did you know?” Jay required. “You came to tell me in the night remember” Joy replied. “I didn’t think you could hear” the younger cousin stated. “I did so how do you feel?” the first question was repeated. “Quite awkward but nice at the same time” Miss Parker explained. “Wow, by the way I don’t wanna hear any more about this” the older one commented. “Don’t worry J, it will happen for you soon” Mrs Hope’s niece gave encouragement. “Not that, I want every little detail but when Sarah comes round. Let me know when you’re ready to share the news” Miss Hope requested. “I’m not planning to” Jay revealed. “Oh yeah, of course you won’t be ready to broadcast. Ok I’ll do it in a couple of hours” Joy said. “I don’t want you to do it at all” it was made clear. “Jay she is your good friend and my best friend. You can’t expect to keep me from telling” Joy thought to be impossible. “I will tell her in due time” Jay responded. “Make sure it’s soon, but for now I want to hear the whole story so start talking” the girls conversed for a while.

Following the breaking of the news to Joy, Joy dressed up as it was her turn to buy necessities for the family. “What did we need again?” Joy needed help to recollect. “Why don’t you just write a list on a piece of paper” Jay did not want to encourage laziness. “No I remember paper towels, salt, milk but I just want you to jog my memory about the other two” the niece of the late Mr and Mrs Parker broke down. “Ketchup and pasta and how can you bring this back all yourself?” Miss Parker was curious. “I have to bring them back?” Sam’s oldest friend treated her with sarcasm. “Ha ha ha” Jay repaid the favour. “I’ll take the trolley bag and I can just drag it. “Joy wasn’t worried. “As long as you have worked it out” Jay seemed the opposite of bothered. “I should be back in 2 hours, keep the house tidy for mum please” the only daughter of Heather and Tom Hope made a plea. “Yes madam, let me know if you give in” Joy stuck her tongue out at Jay, went to get the bag and left.

Miss Hope had started her journey to the supermarket when she heard a particular voice which she thought she recognised. She stopped, listened again and turned back. It was evident that her suspicion was accurate and it was Max Anderson, her dad’s old colleague’s son. “Max!” Joy called out. “Joy! Wow I didn’t know you lived here. I thought it was 50 Somerville lane you were at” Max Anderson alleged. “Well you got the 50 part right and you would have remembered the road if you had stayed in touch with me” Joy made a point. “I deserve that, I’m sorry about that Joy, how have you been?” Max asked. “Really good, just really trying to keep learning and improving myself” Joy replied. “Yeah, you were always good at that” Max said. “I see you got a lot of your stuff, are you staying with a relative?” Miss Hope wondered. “Nah, we’re moving in, this is only half of our stuff, we’re going back for the rest after we’ve put these things away” Max let her know. “Oh cool, I would like to offer my services if it’s of use” she offered. “Weren’t you going somewhere?” He saw her bag. “Just shopping, I can do that after” Joy was willing to postpone “okay cool, we’re gonna start taking them in when my dad’s ready” he accepted. “Oh, let me say hi to him” Max’s family friend wanted to do. “Okay give me your bag, I’ll watch over it for you” she did just that and went to greet Mr Anderson.

Once Joy had been driven back to her house, Max helped to take the groceries inside the house. Jay heard the door open and the crinkling of carrier bags so went to investigate. “These are so heavy, thank you” Joy expressed gratitude. “It’s all good, catch you later” Max walked back to his new home. “So you preferred the help of someone who decided to never stay in contact with you especially after we invited him on our holiday?” Jay folded her arms. “I didn’t expect to see him. He and his dad just moved in behind us” Jay was informed. “Right, well it seems you got a lot more stuff than £10 can buy” she observed. “His dad paid for the extra. He’s my dad’s colleague from school” Miss Hope communicated. “Right! I hope you thanked him on my behalf because I see lots of goodies to choose from” Miss Parker took a peek. ”Packing everything away first, come on” Joy pushed her to the kitchen and they began unloading the shopping.

Chapter 13

A couple of days turned into weeks later when Miss Smith and Miss Hope had just received their hot chocolate and brioches.

(Me) “I’m just even excited to cut into this baby and watch it ooze out” Joy remarked. “Why don’t you just eat the bun and filling separately?” I put forward an idea. “I don’t want to make it sad but let it have a happy day” Joy provided a reason. “So considerate of you” I thought out loud. “I’m glad you said that just before we are about to demolish these pastries, let’s give it a count of 3” my best friend expected was best. “No we have to cut into it and when it starts coming out, we count as it slithers on the plate” I told her. “You are more than right, let’s do it together” we cut into our brioches. “1, 2, 3 oooh yeah!” We put our forks in the buns and tapped it together like we were toasting and took our first bite together. Excuse us please we want to eat these with no guilt. See you soon.

(Writer) Sarah and Joy had now nearly finished their treat. Joy took her next bite when she remembered something. (Me) (chokes) “you alright there?” I questioned. “Yeah I forgot that I have to tell you something, well actually two things but one of the things I’m not allowed to tell you” Joy confessed. “Who said that?” I asked. “I can’t tell you that either” Miss Hope told me. “How come?” I continued my inquiry. “You will easily get it” Joy predicted. “Guy or girl?” I wanted to get around. “Sorry, I can’t say that either” Joy didn’t squirm. “They don’t want me to know their gender?” I came back with. “Unfortunately no” Joy replied. “Is this like some type of CSI thing?” I guessed. “Something like that” Joy understood my comparison. “That’s not fair” I crossed my arms. “Worry not my dear, what I can tell you is more juicy” Joy wanted to lure me away. “Let’s start squeezing then” I prompted. “Well, Max just moved in a few doors down from me” my best friend said. “Oh so it’s only a matter of time” I concluded. “For what?” Joy queried. “For you to make him like you” I clarified. ‘”Come on Sarah, I barely know him. He’s a family friend which is why he invited me to his housewarming party today” my sweetheart voiced something sweet. “That’s nice of him” I stated. “Yeah but it’s not nice of me that I forgot about it. It started over an hour ago so I have to leave now” Jay’s older cousin broke it to me. “You’re going without me AND you’re leaving me here?!” I bellowed. “If I don’t go now I will be late. He wants me there and not just to pop around” Joy admired being loyal. “Maybe it’s just a ploy to spend time with you” I attacked back. “Stop it!” She commanded me. “I won’t because you’re leaving me alone” I expressed sadly. “You can come with me now if you like until we get to your house” Joy suggested. “My 2nd round of hot chocolate hasn’t got here yet” I quoted. “I’m glad you said it and I don’t have to, I’m sorry lovie” my boyfriend’s closest friend declared. “You can go now” I communicated. “Not without your hug” Joy hugged me from behind. “I will tell you every little detail” I was promised. “Mm” she started to walk away and turned to me. “Babykins, smile for me please, I’d rather be late than see that frown on your face” I was spoken to. “You’re just saying that to make a rhyme” I believed. “No, I mean it” she answered. “I’m ok” I received my second round. “Prove it before I move it” I smiled differently to my normal smile. “By the way that rhymed too” I giggled and she really left. I started to sip my hot drink and left when I finished.

(Writer) At the housewarming party, Max had come to check on how Joy was doing “hey Joy, you enjoying yourself?” “Yeah, talking to good people and I’m going to continue touring the house” Miss Hope let him know. “Where have you not seen?” Max beseeched. “Your dining room, back garden and hallway” Joy listed. “Didn’t you come from the hallway?” Mr Anderson’s son was puzzled. “No the side door because that’s where I saw they were making pizza toasties” she told him. “Oh right, have you had a mock tail or mixed drink yet?” He tried to be a good co-host. “Yes too many, if I have another one I might have to visit your other room” she covered. “What room?” He was inclined to know. “Your bathroom” Max’s family friend responded. “Oh (laughs) let’s finish the tour” he appreciated the joke. “What about your friends?” She entreated. “I’ve talked to them enough and this is mostly about my dad so all my relatives are with him, let’s go” Max took Joy round the house.

When the private tour was over, Max’s dad gave a speech and it was partly revealed why the house was bought. After that the food was finished and most of the guests went home apart from the cleaning committee.

Chapter 14

(Me) It’s been some weeks since Joy found out Max had moved to Summerfield. I know she’s saying that they don’t like each other but I still stand by what I said before and Joy knows it. It is only a matter of time because after almost overstaying her welcome (in mum’s eyes) to tell me about the party and Max’s background info she’s going to tell me about her day out with his friends. I should expect her call any minute. “Hey Joy” “hi, I’ll be there in 10..9..8..7..6..5..4..3..2..1*knock” Joy approached my house. “Wow, you couldn’t have got it more perfectly” I realised. “I’ve been here enough times” Joy didn’t expect anything less. “Do you want a drink?” I offered. “No let me start and when I’m restless you know the drill” my best friend hoped. “Right, you may begin” I alerted her.

“Okay, so you already know, he is my dad’s friend’s son who I’ve known for like 10 years. He called me like some days ago. We had a general chat then he invited me. He mentioned the names of his friends that were coming and one of them rang a bell but I wasn’t sure” Joy stopped herself. “Do you need a drink now?” I wondered. “I was thinking you wanted to ask a question or make a reservation” Joy presumed. “No but by now you would have signalled for a drink” I recalled. “No, anyway when I went to meet them with him I found out my speculation was right. One of the girls was in our primary school but left in year 4” I wanted to step in, “did she remember you?” “At first, vaguely then later on she did completely” my mum’s oldest friend’s daughter shared. “So what happened after?” I wanted to demonstrate my engagement. “Well the first part of the plan was having a picnic at the park which I didn’t see as their idea of fun especially because they were all really late. Then I found out that is how they are. They BATs” Joy acquainted me with an abbreviation. “Come again?” I signalled for a debriefing. “Black African Timers” Joy opened up. “Which means?” I felt completely clueless. “They always arrive 2 hours after the finalised time” the definition had been revealed. “Ah so what did you do?” I required. “Max and I talked while we waited” she responded. “Ooo” I teased her. “Just a very plain chat, even low fat yoghurt could top it” Joy compared. “Ooo” I carried on. “Shut up!” Miss Hope communicated. “You’re the one talking, not me” I made a point. “Yeah but I need water now please” I was implored. I raised myself up from the sofa and fulfilled her need.

“Thanks belle” Joy took a sip of water. I made myself comfortable again. ”So anyway when everyone finally got to the park, we had the picnic. Then we played truth or dare with more dares” Joy grabbed her glass for the second time. “Wow, you actually remembered where you left off!” I remarked. “Yeah it was a really great evening and I wouldn’t change anything about it” Joy showed no remorse of accepting Max’s invitation. “Of course except you meeting Max at the same time as I did” Joy included. “Nah that’s okay” I declined. “That’s rude” my friend folded her arms. “Sorry J, I didn’t mean that, please carry on” I tucked my hands between my legs. “So we finished playing and because I’m new they didn’t give me too many dares and they didn’t make me join the next game. Everyone had to guess another person’s secret from three options. They were all really funny but I tried to hold back from laughing” Joy alleged “I could bet £100 and say you did no such thing” I was inclined to risk. “Ok you really do know me. When we were done we went to watch a late evening movie that was hilarious. Max shared the last hotdog with me” my boyfriend’s second person broadcasted. “Aww so not only can I remember him by name but his cuteness too” I spoke. “He has been really nice to me and made me feel so welcome and yet he’s the new one in the area” she realised. “So to remedy that you find out what he likes and suggest somewhere to go and make him feel welcome but don’t push him, he’ll fall for you on his own” I told her. “Sarah! Joy exclaimed. “I’m not kidding” she put me in a headlock and we continued to chill together.

After some time..

3 weeks and 2 days have shrivelled away since my best friend’s love maze had been opened. According to her they have hung out 10 times and Max was ecstatic when she thought of places to go. I know that good things come to those who wait, not them being a couple but me being right. Although, I promise that the rest of the week will have nothing to do with me as it is my best friend’s birthday next Sunday. Jay, Sam, Eric and Max (hopefully) will meet at my house today to discuss what the plan is. I say hopefully because Max forgot that he made a plan to hang out with her. I’m not sure if he will be able to get out of it.

(Knock on door). “Hi honey, how are you?” I inquired Sam. “Doing great chick, where’s everyone else?” He stopped for me to walk beside him. “I think Jay’s just around the corner but haven’t heard from Eric. I doubt Max is coming because he’s hanging out with Joy” I composedly announced. “That’s cool we can just pass on the arrangements we make when he comes eventually so let’s just wait for those two” Sam didn’t sound bothered. “Yeah but hope they get here soon because I really wanna share my idea and I think Jay said she’s thought of something too” I said. “If I didn’t know any better I’d think you didn’t want to be alone with me” Sam replied. “Well, I don’t. It’s about Joy’s 17th special day and not about us” I put aside my feelings. “You’re right. I think 18th is gonna be expensive then, I better start saving from today” he assumed to be the case. “She may or may not want to celebrate so this has to be special (knocking on the door and laughing) “Jay...you have some explaining to do. “I ordered. Jay dropped her head, “shame” Eric mocked her. “You too Eric” Eric copied Jay.

“So how did your hands get stuck together?” I went straight to the point. “They’re not, we were holding hands” Jay told Sam and I, ”uh huh and why?” Jay was questioned. “We were holding hands because we’re going out” Jay spurted out. “Look at you just being able to say without hesitating” I saw. “When you’re in trouble, you talk faster” Jay stated. “So why didn’t you tell me, am I not one of your good friends?” I asked. “You are but I wasn’t ready because it’s something new for me” Jay justified. “But you were ready to hold hands before you told me” I pointed out. “I didn’t want to. When I realised, Eric wouldn’t let go. Please Sarah forgive me” Joy’s cousin pleaded. “Like I said to Sam, us meeting is about Joy so you’re forgiven but don’t let it happen again” I warned her. “I won’t” she got up. “Great! Anyone want snacks before we start?” I offered. “Yeah” we all want to the kitchen.

4pm- “Alright now we have sorted out that Eric is gonna get his friends to barbecue some burgers, ribs and kebabs and he will organise a party for us. Secondly, Sam is gonna order a 13” cherry and passion fruit cake with chocolate filling with his own message. So my idea is that we give Joy’s room a makeover” I put out there. “No way! That was my idea” Jay commented. “It was my idea first” I made her aware. “No it was my idea but rather get a crew to do it” Jay altered. “Oh so we have to see who will be able to do it in the next couple of days” I figured. “No worries I’ve already asked my uncle. He will call someone he knows to do it” Jay made me relieved. “Awesome, let me know when it is all finalised” I wanted. “No worries” Jay assured me. “Good, obviously looking at the time Max couldn’t make it so we have to make Sam follow him up”. I watched Sam look for his phone and tap keys in his phone just as I was getting a call from Joy. “Hey J what’s up?” I made sure everyone was quiet. “Time’s up” Miss Hope retorted. “For what?” I asked. “My birthday, I can’t think of any ideas to celebrate it” Joy explained. “Then we can just keep it low key, just me and you at my house, order food and stuff” I intended for her to be put off track. “It can’t just be me and you, what about Sam?” Joy considered. “He’s not bothered” Sam hit me, “Joy, that’s not true, don’t mind her” he attempted to save himself. “Oooh you’re hanging out at Sarah’s. I’m coming there now and after Sarah will come to my house” Joy let him know. “J, babe we’re sorting some issues out but if we finish in enough time I’ll come over or it will have to be another day” I said. “Oh I hope you sort them out, call me back bye” Joy hung up. “Sam, you were supposed to be quiet” I demanded. “You weren’t supposed to say what you said” Sam threw at me. “Would you rather I say, you’ve got other things to do?” I quizzed him and he was speechless. “Exactly. Jay and I will liaise and discuss what to do with Joy’s room. Hopefully we will get that sorted by the end of the week i.e. her birthday. Of course I know what you clever boys are worried about. How will we keep her from knowing? She will come round on Friday evening and I will get her to stay till Sunday morning and release her after Church” I arranged alone. “How do you know she will be free to, she might have plans with Max” Eric contradicted my idea. “I know because she is my best friend and she would want to celebrate it first with me” I knew. “You don’t know that for a fact” Eric argued and someone knocked on the door. I opened it and saw Max. “What are you doing here?” I required. “Am I too late?” Max changed his facial expression. “For what?” I couldn’t understand. “To talk about Joy’s birthday, you forgot right?” I was tested. “No, we’ve just done it. I didn’t think you were coming because you were with Joy” I gave a reason for my attitude. “I told her I had things to do but I’d call her. I’ll just tell you my idea and go” Max informed me. “We have the whole day planned, but you can still chill with us” I brought him to my living room.

I gave Max some snacks before he could tell us his idea. “Alright well since Joy is crazy about glitter, I’m gonna take her to a glitter nail emporium so she could watch how they are made professionally and make her own” Max involved himself in Joy’s celebration. “Aww wow even I don’t like anything to do with glitter but that sounds fun” Jay was honest. “Yeah it does, wish it was my birthday, have you already set it up?” I wondered if he was ahead of us. “I’ll give them a call, but it depends on when you will do your things for her” Max supposed. “We’re having a barbecue for her, sponsored by Eric. Sam’s buying a cake and Jay and I are gonna help give Joy’s room a makeover” I let him in. “How, with Joy in the house?” Max queried. “Already sorted it out, she will sleepover here from Friday night till after Church on Sunday” I spoke for the almost birthday girl. “What time do you expect everyone to get here?” Miss Hope’s family friend didn’t leave out. “Between 2 and 4 till late” I replied. “Cool, will arrange it for 2 and we will be back between 3:30 and 5” Max told me. “Great, so what else would you like for now?” I asked. “Nothing, see you guys on Sunday” he left my house.

Chapter 15

(Writer) It was now the day of Joy’s 17th birthday and as intended, the birthday girl was at her best friend’s house. Miss Smith had put together a plan of how to start her day. Sarah came to Joy’s room to wake her up. “Oh Joy! Joy! Joy!” “Mmmm” she continued to sleep. “Joy, it’s your birthday” Sarah claimed. “No, it’s not” Sarah’s best friend muttered. “Joy, you’re 17 now and it’s your birthday” Sarah attempted to wake her up the second time. “Yes it is, it’s my birthday” Joy muttered. “Yes it is, so wake up, wake up..” Sarah commanded and began to tickle her. “(giggles) okay, I’m up please stop” Joy rose up. “Happy birthday my bestie in the galaxy” Joy received a card. “Thank you munchkin” Joy hugged Sarah. “I have a surprise for you but will blindfold you first, be right back” Sarah said.

Miss Smith blindfolded Joy then brought into the room a tray of three doughnuts. “Joy, can you hear me?” Carl’s sister wanted to be sure. “Yeah” Mrs Hope’s daughter nodded. “I have brought you some doughnuts and I want you to guess with your mouth what each doughnut is topped with” Sarah handed her a challenge. “Ooo that sounds like so much fun compared to the overdone breakfast in bed” Joy evaluated.. “Okay mum, cancel the pancakes!” Sarah yelled. “Okay darling I will throw them away now!” Charlotte Smith pretended and Joy kept her mouth open. “Are you ready to eat and guess?” The freshest 17 year old girl was asked. “Yeah” the first doughnut was placed in her mouth. “What do you reckon?” the birthday girl’s friend asked. “I can taste honey, jelly and pieces of chocolate and raisin” Joy finished. “You’re wrong about every one except raisin” Sarah responded. “So what else is there?” Joy wondered. “Jelly, plain vanilla cream and raisin” Miss Smith listed. “Just delicious, next please” Sarah’s guest licked her lips. “Okay” Joy had a bite of the second one and some dropped by her lip “Sarah, you didn’t put enough in my mouth” Miss Smith was accused. “I did, it just dropped out” Miss Hope’s first celebrant stated. “Oh, sorry, well this one definitely tastes of honey and pieces of white chocolate” Joy deduced. “Wrong again, it is maple meringue and slightly sweetened vanilla cream, tut tut Joy” the second doughnut was put down and the third was lifted. Sarah slammed it in her mouth. “Sarah!” Joy exclaimed. “That’s for assuming the worst before. Okay last one then we have to get ready for Church” Sam’s girlfriend told her. “Only, if you don’t stuff it in my mouth again” a condition was posed. “I promise my queen, say ah” the last one was gently brought into her mouth. “Mmm, this one is coconut cream with carrot shavings and sweet vanilla cream” Joy affirmed. “Wow, bang on, you like this the best then?” Sarah asked. “Absolutely superb and delicious, can I have more please?” she preferred the doughnut to the blindfold being taken off but Sarah still removed it. “Right, missy you need to eat it up and get yourself ready so we’re not late. Happy birthday again my diamond” Sarah hugged her and went to prepare herself.

Every member of the Smith family had contributed to celebrating Joy on her birthday. The plans that had been put in place made it necessary for the morning of her birthday to be without her family. Joy was able to enjoy pancakes before they had to set off for the Church service at 8:25am.

Once Joy had got out of the front passenger seat of Mr Smith’s car, she was honoured with her normal amount of hugs along with the ones because of her special day. When the prayer session was about to end Joy was called to the front and all members prayed for her. They then sang happy birthday and at the start of praise and worship, the choir sang her favourite song. The Church continued in praise and worship till 10:15am.

Pastor James formally announced that it was Miss Hope’s birthday. She was escorted to the second row after the Church had been exhorted. The Pastor’s sermon was on a topic that touched Joy deeply and she was moved to give a bigger offering than normal. Joy’s parents had come to Church but sat at the back so they could quickly leave to oversee the finishing of Joy’s room makeover.

Jay sent a text to Sarah to go outside to talk about the rest of the day.

“I can’t wait for Joy’s party but first how is the room?” Sarah focused on. “It’s enormously brilliant, best idea I’ve had yet” the cousin of Sarah’s best friend alleged. “It’s our idea” Sarah altered. “No, it was my idea” Jay demanded. “No Jay we both had this great idea” Sarah wanted to divide the intelligence. “No I told you I had an idea before you told me your idea” Jay argued. “Our idea” Sarah insisted. “My idea!” Jay raised her voice. “Our idea!” Sarah refused to accept Jay’s selfishness. “My idea!” Jay stressed. “Our idea and that’s final!” Sarah crossed her arms. “No its my idea and that’s it!“ Jay said. “Girls, what’s going on here?” Sam came to inspect. “Babe, wasn’t the makeover our idea?” Sarah asked. “No, it was your idea” Sam replied. “No Jay and I had the idea to do the makeover for Joy’s room” Sarah clarified. “No it was my idea because I said I had an idea but you didn’t you just said you have an idea” Jay accused. “Come on ladies this is unnecessary, you both brought the idea because you both love Joy and that’s why you both came out to talk about it” Sam pointed out. “That is true” Jay agreed. “What is also true you were this close to having to explain to Joy but I stopped her. Now you have to stop” Sam commanded the girls. “Okay, so what now then?” Miss Smith wanted to take things off the list. “Well we need to go home and make sure it’s all finished then start setting up the garden. You need to wait for Max to call you to let you know where to bring Joy” Jay voiced in a hushed tone. “Yeah, then I come to your house to help decorate?” Sarah wasn’t sure. “Yeah, I’ll call you in like 2 hours and you and Sam can get the rest of the stuff. For now my auntie and uncle are waiting in the car so I have to go” Jay ran to the car. Sarah went back inside the Church with Sam to talk to her friends while she waited for Max’s call.

At the time Max eventually called, all the Church members were either making their way to the party venue or their houses to dress up. “Joy, my firefly I’m taking you to Max because he’s taking you to glitter girl nail emporium” Sarah declared. “Aaaaaah!” Joy screamed. “Man, if only I can make your birthday end now, because if you’re already excited, I don’t know if I can make it till the end” Sarah made a judgement. “Well you can’t because it’s my day. I will try to tone it down” Joy promised. “No I can’t ask or expect you to do that. You are absolutely right, it is your day. The day is all about you babes and I will do all I can to make it special so let’s go to Max” Sarah said. “I can’t believe he thought of this for me, he’s so sweet. I’m so excited and you have to be too because you’re coming” Joy compelled. “No this is his present for you only, I’m not bursting your bubble” Sarah felt determined. “I don’t care, if you’re gonna be with me, I will burst it myself. Please you have to come” Joy pleaded. “I wouldn’t feel right J” Sarah claimed. “You don’t want to spend my day with me?” the birthday girl assumed. “I do. If you really want me to come I will” Sarah gave in. “Yaaay, it’s my birthday!” Joy proclaimed. “It’s your birthday” Sarah echoed and they went to Max.

Chapter 16

(Me) Hiya Diary! At the emporium Joy and I experienced how the core component of our glitter girl club came about. We were taken to the lab room to make Joy’s glitter nail polish. “Right, Joy and Sarah please remove those gloves and wear these rougher ones. After a little while your hands will adjust and you won’t feel discomfort. It will also protect your hands from any germs outside the room” Joy and I followed the technician’s instructions. I slipped the gloves on in 5 seconds and then the technician and I just stared at Joy. “Oww. How did you get it on so quickly without agony and my ones are being rebellious?” My sister from another mother demanded to be answered.. “They must have thought it was my birthday” I jokily suggested. “Hahaha” Joy faked in finding funny. “Don’t stress, within a minute it will vanish, let’s go so you don’t think about it” we went to make Joy’s polish.

After almost hitting an hour and a half, due to Joy not being able to secure decisions on what to put in her polish, we finished. She wore some, “so Joy are you happy with your nails?” The female technician asked. “Yes I am. They look gorgeous, thank you for this it was triple amazing!” Joy complimented the work. “You’re welcome, happy birthday Joy, enjoy the rest of it” she shook our hands and we left.

“So my honey puff I will never be ready to get rid of you but because I didn’t start my day with my family I’m missing them. I’m sure they’re just fighting over who will chuck their presents at me first and arguing about who I will choose to have a photo session with and I... Sarah, hello Sarah” I saw Joy’s hand being waved in front of my eyes. “Sorry I was just thinking of something” I made up a reason. “Oh I’m gonna have to let you go at your road so I can also celebrate with my family” Joy said. “Uh wait hold on” I picked my phone from my bag. “Hi yeah she’s ready” I said to Joy’s dad. “Ready for what?” Joy asked. “To go home and celebrate with your family. “Yeah she’s coming..oh what’s the matter..What!!! All of them? Not even one?” I tried to make her curious. “Okay we will be there shortly” I ended the call. “What is it?” Joy queried. “There’s a problem at your house according to your dad. We have to hurry” we ran to catch the bus.

(Writer) Tom Hope wanted to contribute to the plan of making his daughter’s birthday bigger than 18th could be. For this to be possible he had to stand near a garage some metres away from the Hope household. “Dad what are you doing out here? Is everything okay with you and mum?” Joy was curious. “They are” Mr Hope claimed. “So mum’s driving you crazy about something?” Joy presumed. “Not at all, all the lights except in your bedroom are not working. So you are gonna have to help me get them back on” the girls were told. “Let’s go” Joy walked to her front door followed by her dad and Sarah.

“Ooo dad its a bit cold, can we turn the heater on and warm ourselves up before we figure out the lighting?” Joy hoped for permission. “Sure pumpkin” Mr Hope waited for Joy to discover her card. “Oh dad, you are so cuddly, thank you for being the reason I’m so cute” Miss Hope gave her dad a hug. “Happy Birthday my blossom” the father received it. Joy released her dad. “Right, time for business, to the light box” Mr Hope said to Joy and Sarah. “Dad, what about turning the heater on?” Heather Hope’s husband was immediately reminded. “Yeah, we’ll get the stuff out, you put it on, then we get it started and hopefully done with enough time to take you out. So you hold on to my shoulders and Sarah can hold your waist” the reason was clear to him and Miss Smith but not Joy. “Dad, you’re too tall” Joy commented. “You don’t have to push them down just touch them. You won’t fall” the three went downstairs and Mr Hope slipped away. “Dad, where are you and Sarah, you’re not holding my waist anymore”. “Ow! Hey” A voice cried. “Aah!” “Surprise!!” Friends and family of Joy yelled and she jumped again. A few of her friends did a short dance as they brought her more in the room and everyone else clapped their hands.

The birthday girl was supported to be more comfortable in her chair. She was served a drink and a few pictures were taken. After, Pastor James gave the opening prayer. Then Sarah and Tina took the party host to change into her party wear.

3 hours later, “everybody gather round, we want to cut Joy’s cake” the camera and phones were geared to take pictures. “Wait for me!” Mrs Hope yelled. “Darling, she has to cut it, we’re only helping her” Mr Hope wanted to prevent. “I know I just have something to say. Joy, my sweet teddy bear, I really love you more than you will ever find out. This has to be a very special day for you because you are still standing. You have followed my footsteps in celebrating the non-milestone years like 5, 8 and 12. Not just that but you are so beautiful inside and out. You really are my joy, Joy and your dad loves you very much too. So darling cut your cake in the name of the Father, Son and Holy spirit” Mrs Hope gave a prompt.

Joy was taken pictures alone and with everyone who came. The cake was divided into bags while people finished eating and enjoying different juices. The guests danced and everyone really enjoyed the party until it was time to go home. Joy and her closest friends slept over for the night to enjoy Joy’s room.

Chapter 17

(Me) Heya again, I’m back with my best friend who I don’t have to share like for her birthday (boy was that terrible!) Unfortunately for Sam, when it comes to Joy he is just my boyfriend. Don’t start making yourself think I don’t love him. I really do but I know for 100% she will be there for me and with me through thick and thin.

Moving on, we’ve just finished recapping her birthday extravaganza which I’m sure you don’t want to hear about again. Joy has been texting Max back to back for 10 minutes. I’ve made her promise to round off her conversation with him in the next couple of minutes. I’m getting ready to poke my nose in her business with Max and to what extent my prediction is right

10 minutes later

“Time’s up Joy, off your phone and talk to me” I commanded. “Okay. Hit me” Joy put her phone away. “Oooh who would have thought you would have given me the option” I pushed my sleeve up. “No with what you want to talk about” Joy shielded herself. “Oh I just want to know about you and Max, if we are finally seeing eye to eye or you still have in your head that he’s only waiting for someone else to come along to treat better than you i.e. spending every hour of the day with her” I gave an example. “No we are at eye level. Things have been going well and I want to know how long guys take to realise they want to make a girl his girlfriend. “Well, I can’t really give you a time limit but I think the day is closer. We still have to wait and see” I said. “Yeah, you’re right but hope it’s soon” Joy hoped. “I know you do” I patted her head and we kept chilling with each other.

On the next morning, Joy called to tell me it is her parents 20th wedding anniversary next week. As they were talking I heard them talk. “So my Mr sparkler where should we go for our anniversary?” Mrs Hope requested. “If only I could buy a mascot outfit of the globe and I can just look down” I heard Joy’s dad come across as sarcastic. “J, let me leave you so your parents can talk about this privately” I considered. “No, they’re discussing their holiday don’t be silly, right mum” Joy wanted to clarify. “Absolutely, don’t be silly as Joy’s dad is being now. Where would you like to go?” Mrs Hope implored. “I’m open to where would make you happy” Mr Hope supposed. “I don’t know either but a country with lots of culture” Joy’s mum replied. “No, absolutely not, no culture” my friend’s dad cancelled out. “I’m sorry I didn’t understand what you said before now, something about where would make me happy” Mrs Hope said. “I know but being surrounded by just culture seems boring buttercup” Joy’s dad was honest. “You haven’t even heard of what the culture is like because you don’t know the culture” Heather Hope stated. “I know but I just remembered somewhere that no place can be compared to” a bold judgement was made. “Where?” He was asked. “Austria for 10 days including 6 days of tours, a sea trip and shopping at Villach City” Mrs Hope was informed. “Oo that sounds amazing, how do you know about that?” Joy’s mum wondered. “A friend and I were talking and he told me about it. Since he didn’t give us a wedding present he’s booked this for us” Mr Hope let his wife know. “That is splendid, when did he book it for?” The head of the Hope household was questioned. “He left it open, whenever we are ready“ Mrs Heather Hope was told. “Ok do it for the day after tomorrow. I need to do shopping, go to work tomorrow and finish things off. Sarah would you like to come shopping?” I was required. ”Yes please” I replied. “Ok off the phone and get ready. I will pick you up in 2 hours” a plan was made. “Oh am I not coming?” Joy asked. “Yes you are!” Mrs Hope said. “Say we will pick her up in 2 hours then” Joy demanded. “We will pick you up in 2 hours” her mother wanted her daughter to be satisfied. “Ok, see you then” I hung up and went to get ready.

(Me) I’m back at home now, after helping Mr and Mrs Hope prepare for their 20th wedding anniversary to Vienna. Unfortunately as a result of mum and dad’s separation they have to wait years for that same day. I know it is guaranteed for a fact because they are actually so perfect together. All they needed was to fix what was broken and it got back to being paradise island. Anyway I would like to get some sleep now so I’m closing my diary for the night. See you tomorrow.

Dear diary, yesterday was nothing big but today Jay’s auntie and uncle are flying away to Austria for their wedding anniversary. Hold on just a minute before you open your mouth. I know you too well now and you’re gonna make me say it. Joy and Jay are staying at home, rather than going to a relative and N-O they will not throw a house party. She did not pass up the opportunity to come to my house. She suggested it to me but her mother stopped her in her tracks and told her they want to leave the house with them. You already know Joy enough to be trusted but she was still happy to hear her mum say it.

Moving on, Mr Hope was running around the house making sure he had taken the passports while we zipped up the suitcases. “So Mrs Hope, have you got all your necessities and carry ons?” I asked. “Well even if I didn’t it would be too late as you have shut the suitcase without my say so” Mrs Hope claimed. “You did say so” I recollected. “Oh Sarah, couldn’t you pretend that I succeeded in tricking you?” I was beseeched. “Nope, not in the slightest” I said. “Only God knows why He made you and Joy become best friends. It’s beyond me” Joy’s mother replied. “It has to be but I will miss you too much, more than Joy” I showed off. “Sadly she is right” Joy defended me. “Joy!” The mother put her arms on her shoulders. “Joking mum. I will miss you more” Joy compared. “No I know you will both miss me the same amount” Mrs Hope thought. “Yeah. Mum can I have some money?” Joy asked. “You only need 1 bus and you have enough left over for food” Joy’s mum observed. “I know I just said it to see if I can get more” Joy said. “Cheeky” Joy was given a hug. “By the way this is not the final hug” Joy’s mum said. “I know just to get out of the house” Joy replied. “Yes, girls get those two small bags, your phones, keys and let’s wait in the car” we followed the instructions while Mrs Hope sparked the car and beeped the horn.

Chapter 18

Two weeks had hurried away and by this time Joy had seen Max nearly every other day. Joy had developed a very high opinion of Max and Sarah’s words began to sink in that it was only a matter of time. She knew she wanted to believe that very soon Max would ask her to be his girlfriend. Thus, she messaged Sarah which she had been responded, to talk about the current situation.

This day was 10 days after Joy had read an article and she began to see the results of the quiz in relation to how Max thought of her. Joy had seen that Max had called her but she missed it. She patiently waited for him to call again.

The time had not got too much from then when he called again. “Hey Max, how are you doing?” Joy required. “I’m doing great how about you?” Max returned the question. “Yeah just getting on with some things, spending time with Sarah and my family” Joy answered. “What about Sam?” Max wondered. “Yeah him too” Joy replied. “What about me?” Max questioned. “What about you?” Joy didn’t understand. “Have you hung out with me?” Max asked. “That’s a bit of a silly question when you know I haven’t” Joy criticised. “I know, I’m sorry I haven’t given you a call for a while. I wasn’t ignoring you” Mr Anderson’s son said. “Ok” Joy said. “I wanna make it up to you” he told her. “How?” Joy started to smirk. “I wanna take you out to Clive’s Mexican restaurant tonight if it’s good for you” Max wanted. “Yeah I don’t mind, when should I get there?” Joy wanted to be given a time. “You can’t get there yourself, you don’t know it” Max thought. “Yeah, I’ve been there before” Joy responded. “Must have been another one, this recently opened. So I’ll pick you up at 5 and we’ll drive there is that cool?” Max wanted to be positive. “Yeah I’ll get ready and let you know when to leave” Joy alleged. “Okay cool, see you soon” Max ended the call and Joy felt happy.

Miss Hope and the son of Mr Anderson set off for the restaurant at 10 past 5 in the afternoon. She made sure she looked nice for the big moment but not too much to make him suspect she had an idea.

The teenagers arrived at the place to eat dinner at 6:18pm but they were made to wait in the restaurant lounge. Max did not seem as if he wanted to make heavy conversation. He also didn’t want Joy to worry in the silence, so he talked to her and made her smile. Then he checked on the table and they were escorted to it. They ordered everything at once and was served promptly.

In the car at 9 pm, Joy broke the silence “thanks for taking me out, it was really nice of you”. “It’s okay, no big deal” Max stated. “It was pretty cool and what you did for my birthday and the gift you got me” Joy claimed. “It’s what friends do Joy” Max replied. “This is a bit different though, we have always hung out during the day but it’s the first time you asked me out in the evening” Joy acknowledged. “It was nothing special” Max stated. “But you are interested in me right?” Joy was bold. “Just as a friend” Joy was told. “I thought you liked me” Joy put forward. “Joy, our dads are good friends, so I just did it for you. I wouldn’t have done it for anyone else” Max explained. “That’s why I thought you liked me” Joy reasoned. “I don’t like you, alright, just gonna take you home” Max started the car and Joy tried to stop the tears from crashing down on her face.

By the next morning Joy was not in her room and had not been home since the evening before. Mr and Mrs Hope were waiting for their plane to land at Summerfield Airport. A taxi driver was waiting for their arrival.

Some more hours into the day, Joy’s parents pulled their luggage to the front door and Mrs Hope unlocked their house door. Seeing as Mr Hope had expressed happiness bringing the luggage in and straight away washing them, Heather Hope went to check on her girls. “Joy” she called for her daughter but heard no answer, so she went in and saw her bed hadn’t been slept in nor had her room spray been sprayed. “Jay!!” she called her niece’s name and still heard no answer but when she entered her room she saw a note letting her know she was out with Eric.

After settling in the couch, she called her childhood friend, “hello Carly greetings from Austria darling”. “You are not allowed to still be on holiday, come back now” Charlotte whined. “I’m just playing with you we came back just now” Mrs Hope put straight. “Don’t tell me it’s already two weeks” Mrs Smith demanded. “2 weeks have certainly gone and we’re back” Heather Hope affirmed. “That was quick, how was Austria, petal?” Mrs Smith inquired. “It was really great. It felt so precious having my Tommy to myself” Heather gave her input. “I’m glad your time away worked for you but remember now that you’re back, you have to share him with Joy and Jay” Mrs Smith dropped a bomb gently. “Yes, of course and I missed them too that is why as soon as we got back I went to their rooms. I saw that Jay left a note that she went out but I didn’t see one in Joy’s room. But as she’s with you, I’m not worried. So thank you for accommodating Joy. I guess she just wanted to spend more time together with your gorgeous daughter” Mr Hope’s wife assumed. “It’s actually a little nerve in my body which makes do anything for you but Joy isn’t here” Charlotte noticed. “Her bed hasn’t been slept on and her room spray hasn’t been used” Mrs Hope wanted to work out. “I don’t remember Sarah calling my name or opening the door for Joy unless I didn’t hear. Hold on I’m going to check...Sarah have you seen Joy?” Charlotte sought from her daughter. “No we haven’t talked today did she not go home after going out?” Sarah implored. “No, according to her mum, her bed hasn’t been slept in. Did she mention any of her plans to you?” Charlotte required. “Not that I remember, I will call her and find out” Sarah said. “Thanks Sarah. Heather, Sarah’s on the case, don’t worry” Sarah’s mum walked upstairs as she continued to talk to her childhood friend.

(Me) “Joy, where are you?” I beseeched. “I don’t know where I am” Joy told me. “How can you not know?” I didn’t think so. “I don’t know Sarah, I just don’t know” Joy stated. “Best friends are not supposed to lie to each other, J” I made a comment. “I’m not lying, I actually do not know where I am Sarah” Joy repeated firmly. “What area are you in at least?” I changed the question. “I think Darwich” Joy said. “Okay find somewhere close by and sit. Do not move, I’m coming for you” I instructed. “Don’t bring my mum please, come alone” Joy pleaded. “Can Sam come?” I wanted to include him. “Yeah no one else” Joy allowed. “Okay I will call Sam now and we should leave straight away” I assured her.

2:30pm Sam and I reached the place where Joy assumed she was so I started to call her name “Joy!....Joy!....Joy!”. “Joy!” Sam tried. “Sarah! Sam!” I heard from a far distance. “Joy!” I screamed again. “Sarah!” Her voice was closer. I picked up my phone to call and trace her ringtone. It rang 5 times and she picked it. “Joy, I’m just trying to trace your tone, don’t pick the next one” I stopped the call and selected her name again. I could faintly hear it then Sam grabbed my hand and we ran.

After 30 minutes of aggravated running and stopping we found her. “Joy” I embraced her then I shook her, “what are you doing, are you nuts?” “No but I don’t know what I was thinking” Joy claimed. “Of course you don’t, this was so silly” I spoke my mind. “Actually I do know, I was thinking what is wrong with me and why do people think I’m a waste?” Joy sounded like she wanted to cry. “You have no idea of what you are saying or doing. There is nothing wrong with you and if you are feeling this way running off won’t help. Who has poisoned your mind like this?” I demanded to know. “Max wasted his time, money and effort on me” Joy exclaimed. “That is an indigestible statement. Break it down” I needed to hear. “Max actually told me that the way he’s been so nice to me was not because he likes me” Joy explained. “So what? If he wants to think he wasted his time, it just means he never cared about you. He was playing with you and felt like he had to put on a show. I barely know him but I’ve known you my whole life and there’s no other way than to see you as a shimmering blessing. Until that guy comes along and is ready to add your specials, you have a big team behind you who love you individually and together. I don’t want to be friends with anyone who mistreats the people who are on my heart but if we see him we have to be nice” I encouraged. “Sarah, what he arranged for my birthday was so sweet” Joy shared. “It doesn’t matter babe, we’re not trying nor do we think we have to buy your love. Just put this behind you, you don’t need him and you have us, okay bubbles” I moved the hair from her face and Sam wiped her tears off. He gave her a hug and then I hugged her before we went to the car.

Sam drove to Joy’s house so she could apologise to Jay and her parents for running off. Then Sam took me home and I went straight to bed.

Chapter 19

(Writer) Months down the line...

Sam came to Sarah's home to take her out. "Hello Sam" Charlotte Smith addressed her daughter's boyfriend. "Hi Mrs Smith, you look as beautiful as your daughter" Sam spread his charm. "Oh thank you, all because of God, had I known you were gonna say that I'd have recorded it and shown it to Mr Smith, since he rarely recognises" Sarah's mum alleged. "You and I both know that he loves you just how I love your crazy daughter" the only offspring of Mr Jones promised. "You are very sweet Sam. Mr Smith can learn a thing or two from you. Sometimes he gets it wrong and I just get tempted to cut my ears off" the newest mother of 3 challenged his claim. "No Miss Smith you are no Picasso" Sam denied her challenge. "(laughs) You are right but from now on I should keep one scissors by me in case of an emergency" said Mrs Smith. "(laughs) If you must..Hope all is well" Sam checked. "Yes just sorting out some things" Sam was told. "I see, all the best am just gonna see Sarah" Sam left his girlfriend's mother's presence. "Oh yes that is what I came for. Hi darling are you and Carl okay?" Sarah was asked. "Yeah fine" Sarah replied. "Okay I am upstairs if you need me" Mrs Smith rushed out.

"Hiya" Sarah received her boyfriend. "Hey, you okay?" Sarah’s boyfriend enquired. "I am and you?" She showed her concern. "Marvellous" He affirmed. "Good good" the oldest sibling quoted "you look so comfortable and perfect with him" the sibling from a different family evaluated. "Yeah, he is a favourite of my favourites" Sarah addressed Carl. "Favourites, as in more than one?" He asked. "Yeah" she stated. "Another one would be..?" Sam interviewed. "Of course you know" Sarah presumed, "good because you're somewhere up there" Miss Smith started to blush. "No actually I have to reassess..I would put a chocolate bar down just to get you in my arms" Sam received a screw faced look. "Unless I should put you down and finish first?" He wanted to know. "It depends, what chocolate bar?" She challenged him. "Double decker" he replied. "Oh..okay then no" Sarah disliked the sound of "what did you think I wanted to say?" Sam questioned. “Wispa, be realistic I will take the bar" she phrased bluntly. "Ok you could have it but I’ll just wait for you to finish it before bringing a whole pack and devouring it one by one" Sam challenged her, "you just try it" Joy’s childhood friend dared him. "(laughs)..No fear I will do it" Sam ascertained. "Sure you will" Sarah looked unafraid. "Whatever...should we go?" Sam changed the subject. "Yeah I just want him to fall asleep" she explained. “I'm so hungry though" he whined, "go and get a snack" she encouraged him. "No my stomach has been exercising and now it’s ready for battle" he equipped her. "Oh dear now I have to change my whole outfit" Sarah worried about "good, you'll need it" Sam spoke. "Meaning what?" "Exactly what you're thinking" she stared at him and he laughed. "I don’t even wanna get myself started else we won’t leave. Take Carl and let me get dressed" Sarah handed him over to her boyfriend to prepare herself. At first he cried but after 10 minutes Sam managed to quieten the toddler.

A further half an hour went and he was sleeping at Sarah’s return. She took him to bed then the couple left the house and entered his car at both sides in the direction of a new restaurant. "Where are we going?" Joy’s best friend beseeched. "I have told you so you knew beforehand “Sam decided to withhold the name of the restaurant. "Not the name" Carl’s and Tom’s sister knew. "When we get there I will wait for you to read the name" he told her. “I won’t need to if you spill the beans" Mr Smith’s eldest child thought. "Nope I won’t" Adam Jones’ son did not budge. “Why?" Miss Smith interrogated him. "Is it a crime? If so then we can turn back and you will report me to the police" Sam claimed. "It’s alright, if you can't pronounce it I will do it myself" she backed down.

Shortly after the move from Sarah’s road, Sam’s mum called and Sarah put it on loudspeaker as he was driving. It started off as a general conversation and Sam acknowledged his girlfriend's presence. Then Mrs Jones invited them for dinner and they changed direction.

Upon arrival Sam switched on the TV and Sarah accompanied his mum in the kitchen.

Half an hour past the time the couple arrived, they ate dinner and made fascinating conversation.

Around 10, Sam’s dad returned and was served.

At 11 Mrs Jones embraced Sarah and went upstairs.

When Sarah was ready to go, they left Mr Jones sleeping on the couch. Sam took her home in Mr Jones’ car.

As they approached Sarah's driveway, Sam kissed her hand and said "I love you" to Miss Smith. She responded "I love you more",. They got out, walked to the front door and exchanged glances. Sam waited for his beloved to walk upstairs to her room and he shut the door.

The next morning Sarah embraced the beginning of the day with Sam "hi I was gonna reply but kept dozing off sorry honey". "No it’s ok I would have been surprised if you did, and you would have ended up on the extreme girlfriend wall of fame" Mr Jones’ son communicated. "That's not fair" the lady protested. "Nothing is fair Sarah including my girlfriend missing 3 of my calls but you don't hear me complaining" he pointed out. "I said I'm sorry" she repeated "it's fine" he created a path of silence. "Sam?" Sam’s name was called. "Yeah" he issued a short reply "you've stopped talking" Sarah realised "mmmm no I have not" he teased. "You are so mean...it wasn't on purpose" she claimed, "(laughs) just teasing you, there is nothing like that. You are the best that there is. I never worry when messaging you because you always make me a priority and it makes me feel warm inside and excited about our relationship" Sam stated. "Wow you actually got me, I felt defeated" Sam laughed at Sarah’s confession. "Even still I just love talking to you all the time, I just can't get my mind off you, you are my treasure" Miss Sarah Smith fed him with praise. "I wouldn’t have said it any other way" Sam agreed. “You were really good with Carl yesterday" he was positively regarded. "I struggled for a long time to calm him down though" he didn’t walk away from a fact. “It’s only your first time" she took it easy on him. "So Carl is now crying because I’m not there" he flattered himself. "No way, get over yourself" she discouraged. "So why is he?" Sam enquired. "He isn't" the girlfriend assumed "Sarah listen" he prompted her... "Oh you're right, he might just be hungry and forgotten all about you. Although yesterday you were so comfortable should have even left you two...actually you know what you mind coming over because I need to do some shopping" Sarah mocked Sam. "I didn't come to be a babysitter and that isn’t fair when I came to see you" "hmm no comment" Sarah toyed with her beloved. "Okay then" he dismissed her reply "but I’m so glad I didn’t as I missed you and wanted to see your parents so both were done simultaneously" the girl thought was amazing. "Wow a very big word for you which you pronounced incorrectly by the way" he pretended. "Ahaha no I didn’t” she rejected, “of course" Sam continued to play "shut up, you're so annoying" she did not compliment him. "Hmm alright I better stop cutting my sleep am off" Sam informed her. "No don't go" Sarah begged. “I know you want me to" Sam commented "did I say that?" She solicited. "That is what it sounded like" he analysed. "No I asked do you wanna hang out with Carl and I today? You must have not heard me" "hmm do I want to..and cause trouble for Sarah..tempting" Sarah stayed quietly worried. "Sure see you at 12" Sam eventually accepted. "All that time?! You will pay for that" she playfully threatened her boyfriend. "We shall see (fake evil laugh)" Sam stated, "weirdo, can't wait till 12” she highlighted. "Me neither" Sam agreed. “Bye” she said, “bye” he returned.

Sam entered Miss Smith's house and was welcomed with a passionate and soft hug. "Do you need a drink?" She showed warmth. "Nah I’m settled for now, where’s Carl?" Sam required. "He's with my mum at the moment, she'll bring him soon but don’t get down, I can keep you entertained till then" she gave him his word. “I have nothing against that" they watched their favourite programme while bonding.

"Sam, is there something important you have to discuss with Carl?" Miss Smith requested. “No, why?" Sam entreated back. "You seem more interested in him than me" Sarah feared. "Come on...I have nothing in common with him, I’d go crazy if you weren't chaperoning us" Joy’s school friend replied "ha-ha, you're funny if you think I’m falling for that" she didn’t succumb to. "Come on, what exactly would I need to talk to him about?" She was being quizzed. "That is what I would like to know, maybe poison him with silly ideas" she drew out her disbelief. "One example is.." he put her on the spot "you know" she struggled to follow through. "You can obviously read my thoughts so express it" he put her under pressure. "Uhh..well..you know" Sarah was at a loss, "quit while you're behind, its not working" he told her "fine, I will get Carl" she said "no" he stopped her. "What?" Sarah replied "let's just agree that Carl was never gonna come in the first place and it was a trap for me" he concluded. "No, it was honest, I thought my mum would bring him" Sarah claimed. "It’s okay you don’t have to feel embarrassed that I’ve caught you because I couldn't be more honoured at the thought of it" Sam reasoned. "Really?" Sarah started to pretend it was a game. "Next time just tell me you want me over it’s no big deal" the familiar visitor alleged. "Noted" Sam cuddled Sarah and kissed her head.

(Me) "Angel, this food is so nice" my boyfriend let out. "Thanks babe" I accepted. "I think I am gonna get some more" he stated. “You've barely had quarter of your plate" I detected. "Yeah but can’t wait to do so...this just can't be beat" he flattered me. "Awww I could hear you say that ten times over but if you don’t just eat, you will choke" I warned him. "Nah I’ll be..I’ll be fine, one second" I watched Sam leave to the kitchen and I shook my head.

"So after me saying not to go for more you still got up and you forgot your plate" I messed with him. "I was going to take more but I was feeling guilty that you'd not want to talk to me" he formulated an excuse. "Likely story" I didn’t accept "ok you jinxed me!" He accused me, "no way" I denied. "Fine, sorry I didn’t listen okay" my boo confessed. "Are you feeling better?" I asked my boyfriend. "Yeah I just need a pat on the back" I fulfilled his request, "just a few more" he asked when it turned from a pat on the back to a rub. "Still choking" Sam cleared his throat "you're so...(Sam turned to me) sly" I leaned my head on him. "Let’s have more" he said. "Really, I can pack this up for you as well" "no no don’t I will eat and enjoy" I touched his chin as he quietly ate his food. I played games on my phone while trying to disguise me staring at Sam. I knew he would drop his fork and grin at me, forcing me to float into another galaxy.

I got up multiple times and looked at the entrance to the kitchen. "Sarah who are You expecting?" My boyfriend enquired. "Hurry up so we can have dessert" I urged him. "Maybe I don’t want dessert" Sam toyed with me. "Yes you do" Sam looked at me "please" I giggled. "Fine, you can have your own magic show and I’ll be your assistant" he volunteered himself. "Ha-ha yes" I claimed. "Don’t get too happy" Sam responded. "How can I not when I’m with you?" I asked. "Do not try and twist..wait what?” He asked back. "You make me so happy" I admitted. “I know...alright go and get the dessert" he released me. "Yay!" Sam chuckled as he finished off his plate.

(Writer) 10 minutes later Sarah brought two bowls filled with ice-cream and peach upside down cake. Sarah comfortably rested her legs on Sam’s lap. "Mmm" Sam sampled the dessert, "you like it?" Sarah sought for confirmation. "More than I love you" he confessed, "huh?" Sarah asked for a repeat. "It’s really nice" he affirmed. "I’m glad it hits your spot" Sarah patted his head.

After a while..

(Me) "Presenting Carl Anderson Smith" Sam cheered for the toddler and picked him onto his lap. "Did you call him Anderson?" Sam questioned. "Yeah" I let him know. "Why?" He required. “It’s his middle name" I told him, "really?" He sounded surprised. "You've always known" I guessed "no honest I didn't" he revealed. "Oh right, it’s my dad's and Tom shares it as well" I replied. "Yeah I know it’s your dad's" he said. "So why didn't you know my brothers had it, without me telling you?" I interviewed him. "Just didn't ring a bell I suppose" he stated, "I see" I took the dessert bowls and left the boys alone for a while.

(Writer) Sarah brought two chilled glasses of drink for her boyfriend and herself. She set down the carton of juice. The toddler was allowed to roam around after they entertained him. "So does your mum and dad not have a middle name?" Sarah picked up the conversation again. "No they're not related so they won't" Sam jokily misunderstood and Sarah rolled her eyes "you know what I mean" Sarah expected. "My dad's name is Adam Vincent Jones and my mum is Natasha Clare Jones" Sam made me aware of. "Lovely, so you don’t have Vincent in yours?" She wondered. "No, so that’s why it wasn't obvious about your brothers having the same middle name" he expressed. "Fair enough, but Vincent is a nice name" Sarah commended his dad’s name. "You like it huh?" He asked. "I do, can I call you Vince sometimes?" She enlisted. "As long as no one else knows" he made a condition, "why? It’s a cool name" she shared. “I’m ok with you liking it but no one else" he gave her the right. "Alright Vince" she smiled. The couple continued to tell life stories about themselves.

The hour after that Mrs Smith came down to make dinner but rather realised Carl needed to be changed.

Chapter 20

At 9pm the family and Sam had lamb stew, curried rice and pork chops. Tom immediately went to bed after and Charlotte and Kirk left their daughter with Mr Jones' son.

"Are you satisfied?" Baby Carl’s sister checked "Yeah today has been so chilled and relaxed, no hours wasted" Sam enunciated. “I feel the same. So what you doing tomorrow?" His girlfriend entreated. "I think I will just hang out with Eric" Sam made known to Sarah. "What about Max?" Sarah called to his attention. "I don't know it’s like nowadays I can't talk to him and because of Joy. I will let him get on with his own things" Sam reported. "Joy wouldn't want you to walk away from your friendship. She knows that their situation has nothing to do with you so don't leave him out totally and say hi to Eric for me" I requested. "Will do but I thought by now you wouldn't be too fond of Max, because of how he treated Joy" Sam analyzed. "His problem with Joy has nothing to do with me either. Therefore harbouring negative feelings would be pointless. If he was to call me I would talk to him normally but I just want you to check on him once in a while" Sarah pleaded. "I love how you express yourself chick and you are right, I'll try to call him sometimes" Sam surrendered. "You have such a good heart and it was what drew me to you other than your ever-growing handsomeness" Sarah complimented Sam. "I only trust you to say that, my beautiful teddy" Sam returned the compliment. "Aww you better go before I trap you here again" they both rose up and embraced each other.

When five minutes passed on from then, Sam put his shoes on. Meanwhile, Sarah went to get his food that she packed for him. They put the TV off and Sarah informed her mum that Sam had to go. She took her key to return to the house after seeing him off.

"I love you so much and you're definitely hosting next week" Sarah put him in charge of. “I love you too and you never have to ask me to come round, the door is always open for you” Sam expressed. “And no burglar has come into the house? Wow!!" Sarah took it more literally. "Now you know what I mean" Sam cut off her sarcasm, “should I?" She quizzed him. "Yes you should" he expected "(giggles) yeah I do” Sarah affirmed. “You will come tomorrow” he told her. “You don’t even need to say please. I’d love to” she said and pecked him, "I...(Sam’s phone rang)" "Eric let me call you back" he hung up and continued with Sarah. "Bye babe" they kissed and held each other “I don't want you to go yet" Sarah responded. “I know but I can't do anything but sleep, you filled me proper" Sam appreciated. “I only gave you a 2 course meal and dessert" "that and much more, you always know what I want and need" the boyfriend admired. “I didn't think you would prefer sleep" Sarah added. "Don't even pretend you're not sleepy and I have to drive back so I won’t be in bed for another hour" Sam replied, "you only live 10 minutes away" she pointed out. "Yeah but you might be asleep by then. I don't even want to say I will text you when I get home before you doze off again" the son of Mrs Jones wanted to make her panic. "If you do I will most definitely wake up to reply. I promise, so do that ok" she made him promise. "Sure" Sam kissed his girlfriend's cheek, entered his car and opened his window. Sarah kissed his hand and he did the same "you be a good boy" Miss Smith made a remark "and you be a good girl" he sent it back to her. "Of course" after the engine was sparked, Sarah waved and went inside.

A few days after Sam sent an IM message to Sarah. They texted for an hour then she prepared to go to his house.

The following week- Eric's father and Sam’s father shared a mutual friend in Tyrone Meadow. Mr Jones involved his son and Sabrina, the daughter of Tyrone in a project. Unbeknown to Sabrina that Sarah was his girlfriend after a few weeks she began to focus on him beyond the project. Sam had to reject her advances and it was never explained. At this moment Sarah had began to feel jealousy crawl down her spine and tossed and turned with curiosity about his other company. When she got to the brink of worry she wanted to call Sam and discuss when his phone appeared to be engaged. Then she left the house to clear her head and met a guy called Darren.

After she returned she started to miss her boyfriend greatly and sent some texts to him. She panicked when there was no reply after a short while.

At a point Joy and Sarah met up and the same issue took majority of the conversation. For a while her fears were jilted, but soon resurfaced and she decided to invite Darren to her house to acquaint themselves more. In between Darren confessed his feelings for her and the minute he stroked her hand Sam was at the window and called her name. Then she went to the door to get him but she was late. Sarah asked Darren to leave.

The day following these events, Sam called Sarah and she did not pick as she was fretting that she put him in an angry mood. Then Sam text her' please sweetie I really need to talk to you’, Sarah picked the next call and there was a little argument but they expressed their feelings. “I have no interest in that guy" Sam’s teenage sweetheart admitted. "Neither am I in any way involved with her, just had to help my dad's friend” Sam opened up. "Ohhh I see, I really wanted to talk to you and I got nervous but I did trust you" Joy’s best friend supposed. "Don't worry it's okay I’m not angry. In fact I can't get over the fact that you love me so much that you were overreacting over someone stealing me from you but that is impossible" Sam assured her. "Also, no one in this world can melt me with their touch like you, if you had waited you would have seen me shoving his hand away" Jay’s friend told him. “I thought you might have done a couple of minutes later” Sam told me. “Then why did you not come back?” I queried. “Well when the foreman in court decides that a person is guilty or innocent can they go back and change it?” Sam made a point and she laughed. “I don’t know how you do it, make me always see the funny side of serious things” I finished laughing. “That’s good right?” Sam wondered. “Mmmm” Sarah hesitated and Sam was quietly anxious. “Everything’s alright babe, going to bed now love you” Sarah said. “Love you just as much, goodnight” Sam responded, “night babe” Sarah ended the call.

Chapter 21

The next Friday. Over at the Hope household.

"Hey Joy, how do I look?" Jay's cousin bursted into laughter. "Joy what is this joke that has you all choked up?" Jay inquired. 2 minutes later, "you're wearing a dangly earring and a stud" Jay huffed. "Let’s go and undo your mess” Joy chose her words without compassion.

6:05pm "You are going to look amazing in this" Joy supposed, "ahem" Jay said, "yes you will, so where are you off to?" Joy interrogated her. "Eric’s taking me out somewhere and it’s soon also our 1 year anniversary so we're prepping for that too" Jay notified her family member. "Is it really necessary to spend money for both days?" Miss Hope questioned her cousin. "Eric insisted so what can I do?" Jay answered back. "Can't you stay home tonight and spend the whole weekend with him for then?" Joy asked. "He has already planned it and we haven't seen each other for a while" Jay responded. “You know you've talked loads all these weeks" Joy replied. "We talk once or twice a week at best" Jay corrected her assumption, "come on please just tonight and not again, I am practically alone" Joy moaned. “I cannot ask Eric to cancel, what do you need us to do tonight?" Jay wanted to find out. "I’m up for anything" Joy didn’t mind, "sorry Joy, I know it has been hard for you in this long period of getting over what you thought Max was. I would do anything for you but you just have to allow time to heal, me staying here will not protect you in any way" the younger cousin spoke with sense. "But I am so bored" Sarah’s best friend complained. “I know how to help" Jay lifted her pillow to reach for her phone.

"Hi Sarah" Jay greeted her friend, "hey Jay what's up?" Sarah wondered. "Joy is feeling a little depressed and wants you to come round" Jay responded. "Where is she?" Miss Smith wanted to find out. "Right here Sarah" Joy stated "what's wrong Joy?" Miss Smith inquired. "This young lady is ditching me for Eric" Miss Hope exaggerated "you see the problem, she is delusional" Joy’s younger cousin gave an input. “I will be there in an hour hold on" Sarah hung up.

Sarah then received a call from Sam "hey baby, I wanna run some things by you". "I am all ears" she stated. “I was browsing and saw a trailer for a play tomorrow called love isn’t supposed to hurt, do you wanna go?" Sam inquired. "Aww nice, that's sorted” Sarah accepted. “Oh oh" Sam remarked, "what?" Miss Smith replied. "There is a 20% student discount on paintballing and a sci-fi exhibition next month. We should all go and hang out" Sam added, "some really good ideas you have cooked up. I can't argue with that so you, Eric and Max" she worked out, “no just me, Eric, you girls and Tina if you want" Sam allowed. "Sam remember what I said about not shutting him out, please let him come" she said. "Fine" her boyfriend reluctantly complied with. "Thanks sweetie, but for tomorrow I am all yours" Miss Smith clarified. "What do you say about spending the whole day together?" Sam required. "Alright and let’s go to that breakfast food place" she included, "of course" he replied. “I’m off to Joy’s so it would probably be in my best interest to take some stuff along to Joy's house since it is most likely I will sleep over. Can you pick me up from Joy's place around 9am?" Tom’s sister requested. "Not a problem, the place opens by 10 so we will get the warmest and freshest food. Can't wait to get into that mashed potato" Sam commented. "But you don't like potatoes" she knew "in life there will always be an exception to the rule" he made an exception, “I see, what about pancakes?" Enquired Sarah. "I will save that for last" the boyfriend claimed "how can you not like pancakes, that isn't human" she judged him. "That's why I said I will save it for last to leave with that taste in my mouth" the only child in the Jones family affirmed, “nice try" she didn’t take seriously. “I am serious" he stated "oh yes I know" she sarcastically commented. "Cheeky (Sam chuckles)" the boyfriend remarked, "yes Vince" the first born of the Smith household claimed. "Hey I hope you are the only one there" he hoped, "in my room, why not?" She expected no answer. “I thought you were going to Joy" Sam recapped what he was told. “I am but I had to check first that you could pick me up from there" Joy’s best friend confirmed. "Okay, see you in the morning, I will buzz and wait in the car" Sam planned. "Good idea, thank you sweetie. Love you" Carl’s sister answered "back at ya" Joy’s first guy friend replied. "(giggles) You are seriously mental" Miss Smith believed "thank you" he humbly accepted. "Any time" the girlfriend alleged. “I am going to hang up now" Sam spoke "no I will hang up first" Sarah refuted. "No I will" her boyfriend insisted, "it’s my turn" the girlfriend argued "no it’s mine" Sam didn’t give up, "I’m doing it" Miss Smith ended the call.

'Aww you just rejected my kiss' he assigned a message to go to Miss Smith. 'You didn’t do it' 'if you didn't hang up you would have caught it' Sam texted. 'Liar' she sent to him 'honest' he wrote to her. 'Call again then' she wanted to be proved wrong. 'How about no' he refused to carry on. 'Whatever' Sarah turned it back to her phone homepage and packed for Joy's house.

An hour later, Joy ran to the door and cuddled Sarah. "Wow it was a serious emergency" Sarah found out. "You can say that again, I really wanna watch these 3 movies. Let's put your stuff upstairs and get popcorn" Sarah followed her up the stairs.

The two best friends ate the popcorn as they kept their eyes glued to the screen. Sarah recognised a certain scent "mmmm" "Sarah you just said not even ten minutes ago that this guy was a 4/10 and now you're dreaming about him" Joy accused. "No I stand by what I said but I smelt a nice smell that waved into the room and can't identify the source" Sarah explained. "What's the smell like?" Joy offered to help find out, "like very creamy and golden" Miss Smith suggested "perfume?" A member of the Hope household guessed. “I doubt that, smells like is starting from downstairs" Sarah assumed. "Hmm what a nose you have because I can't pick...oh no” Joy ran out of the room and Sarah went along to investigate.

“I completely forgot that my mum asked me to watch over them" Miss Hope grabbed oven gloves and opened the oven. "Oh thank God it’s just perfect, so glad you reminded me" Joy sounded relieved. "What are they?" Joy set them down to cool "butterscotch blueberry macaroons" Joy notified her friend. "Mmmm, what are they for?" Sarah was not ashamed to pry. "You know that group she tutors?" Joy made known to her. "Oh yeah" Miss Smith said, "a few of them passed their exams and one got a job so she will leave at the end of the week" Joy notified the house guest. "Oh Joy, you were gonna let them get burned" Sarah Smith cautioned her. "That is why I am relieved you're here" Joy removed 4 of the macaroons, took custard and whipped cream from the fridge and spread it over the desert. "This is my mum's new creation so tasty" Joy showed support for Mrs Hope. “I will be the judge of that, so is that where your mum is now?" Sarah asked. "Yeah and dad is at some meeting, will get back around midnight" Joy made her know. "Shouldn't we make some food for them incase they might be hungry" Sarah quizzed Joy. "Yeah but not something that will take too long, I want us to get back to the movie" Joy was honest. "Don't worry" Sarah responded.

Miss Hope and Miss Smith washed the desert bowls and every piece of equipment that helped them with the meal. After, they returned upstairs to spend more quality time together.

The next hour swiftly passed by and the door was opened and shut. Some minutes after "hey girls" Jay greeted her cousin and friend. "Hi" they both said "what have you been doing?" Jay inquired. "Just movies pretty much, did you have a good time?" Sarah inquired. "Yeah really nice" Jay answered "good" Sarah and Joy kept their focus on the TV. "So many cute things happened on our date" Jay hinted at the girls for them to prod her for information. "No girls, I can't tell you, it's private" Jay went in for a second time. "I'm gonna relax in my room" Jay felt they weren't paying attention "see ya" Sarah said dismissively. Then Jay saw that Eric was calling her, so she answered it while leaving.

When the movies were done the two friends started chatting. Jay heard hysterical laughter and she went to her cousin's room. "What's all the noise about?" Jay poked her head into Joy’s room. "Sarah" Joy revealed the culprit. "No, you" Sarah couldn't contain herself but then asked "sorry did we wake you?" "No I was hoping I can join in" Miss Parker confessed. "Why?" Jay was not able to talk for a minute "just joking, come in" the covers were lifted for Jay and they continued talking.

Two hours later, Joy and Sarah had fallen to sleep deeply but Jay got up to leave. Just before she made a silent escape Joy called her name "Jay, where are you going?" "Back to my room" Jay whispered "don't you want to stay here?" Joy offered. "Nah it’s cool, goodnight" Joy fell back to sleep.

At 7:30 Sarah went into the bathroom and by quarter past 8 she carried on with her routine.

20 minutes later Joy greeted her before using the loo. "Morning" "you had a good sleep?" Sarah retreated "yeah, be right back" Joy let her know.

10 minutes passed and Joy returned to her room, "why are you up so early?" "Sam is taking me out for breakfast and he will be here in 10 minutes" Tom’s sister told her dearest of all friends. "Oh okay, have fun” Joy wished. Sarah had a last check in the mirror and grabbed her bag. "Is it okay if I leave my stuff here and come in the evening to get it?" Sarah aspired for permission. "Yeah unless you wanna save Sam’s petrol and donate them to me" Joy stated "you wish" Joy laughed. "Okay J, I will be back like 9/10 because we're gonna watch a play at the Stanley auditorium after" Sarah informed her, "aww have fun and tell me about it later" Joy said. "No problem, catch you later" Sarah made a brash exit. Sam buzzed the door bell and Sarah opened the door and followed him to the car.

Chapter 22

At 12pm Joy met her mum in the kitchen, "heya mum" "hi love how are you doing?" Heather Hope checked up on her daughter. "Not felt much greater than this, did you see the food we left you?" The daughter implored. "Who's we?" the mum wanted more information, "Sarah and I” Joy concluded "oh, no I went straight to bed, I was so knackered" Mrs Hope relayed to her daughter. "Well at least for lunch you don't have to worry about what to eat" Joy knew. "True, thanks so much...okay darling I am up in my room if you need me" her mum reminded her. "Alright see you later" Joy made every effort to keep busy which turned out to be more productive than had been planned.

The moment Sarah and Sam could no longer deny that they were full, was when reaching for the right amount of money was a challenge.

The couple took a stroll round a big field in order to make it seem as if they hadn't just eaten 5 rounds of breakfast that made their stomachs burst with glee.

Half an hour after they started to take steps towards the car, Sam's desire for spontaneity stopped him in front of a building. "Sarah look, we can ride in a hot air balloon in 2 hours for £15" Sam notified her. "Wow normally is like £40, we should try that someday" Sarah suggested. "That someday has come" Sam replied "no Sam I can't, I've just eaten I will feel woozy" the girlfriend made an excuse. "No you won't, it goes very slowly" Sam was not going to let her miss this opportunity "but we'll be so up in the air ,I will feel it" she whimpered. "It's not anything like that, come on" he wanted her to feel supported. “I can't" Sarah wanted to be called a chicken "why not?" The boyfriend prodded his girl for a reason. "I just can't" Sarah didn’t try thinking of a way to justify. "ahh okay, come on let’s go it will be fun, just trust me please" Sam took her hand and they went in together.

After paying, they were given a tutorial for the hot air balloon ride. All the safety measures and the number they needed for emergencies were taken note of. Sarah made certain gestures to a member of staff supervising them but Sam insisted that they be alone.

At 2pm they started going up in the air as Sarah's heart was beating but then she felt the hit of Sam's hand and relaxed. Throughout the journey, Sam had his arms around his girlfriend "see twinkles, look how beautiful and peaceful it is up here, just for me to have you all to myself" Sam showed off. "Yeah it is really gorgeous here and being here with you is an incentive" Miss Smith finally came round to the idea. “I find that hard to believe, its like you actually wanted to be alone with the guide more than me" Sam feared. "That is ridiculous, never think that. It’s just we have never done anything like this and it was so random" Sarah labelled. "But look at how much fun it is that we're not being disturbed" Sam brought her mind to. "I wouldn't change this for diamonds, thank you for pushing it into my brain" Sarah surrendered. "I will never hesitate in doing that" he smiled and Sarah pecked him. They continued discovering all the landscapes that were listed for them and time run passed them.

As their excitement limit had not yet been reached, they came up with the idea to visit the aquarium. They discovered every breed of fish and managed to go on a private sea animal tour. Although Miss Smith started to vent her worry about the time to her boyfriend, he wanted her to be as relaxed as he was.

"Sam it's ten past 6 and there is traffic on the way" Joy’s best friend couldn’t help but to report. "So do you no longer wanna go?" The boy mate enquired "I do, I just feel bad we will be late, they might not even let us in" she worried about. "Relax gorgeous, they will yeah" Sam did not feel the anxiety.

Sam saw the doorman getting up from his post, while Sarah was modelling Sam’s jacket. The doorman saw the two young adults and opened the door. "Hello, we have two tickets to watch the play going on now" Sam notified the doorman. "I have already been ordered to shut the door, sorry sir" the doorman announced. "Please, we wouldn't have missed too much by now" Sam pleaded. "Sorry I do not know you enough to be willing to lose my job for you" argued the doorman. "We were on our way, just that we lost track of time" Sarah tried to persuade the doorman. "The only time that concerns me is how long I have left of my break which you are cutting into" the unkind doorman showed no sympathy. "We really wanna see it" Sarah tried again. "That is not on my list of concerns so leave!" The doorman commanded the couple. "What is going on?" The co-ordinator of performances demanded to know. "These two are not understanding that the doors have been shut and they can't go in" the doorman justified. "Calm down, have you two got tickets?" The co-ordinator asked "yeah" Sam pulled them out and the stranger caught a glimpse of his face "Sam?" "Yeah" Sam replied. "It’s me Greg from Studley, remember our little tournament?" Greg openly reminisced. “Oh you mean the one when I thrashed you" Sam gloated. "Nah man when I was having that off day" Greg gave a weak alibi. "Oh yeah that off day when my legs were hurting and I was feeling dizzy" Sam mimicked him. "So funny. How you doing?" Greg requested. “I've been good man, you?" Sam passed back to Greg. "Yeah not too bad" Sarah decided to sit down "you know how before I was blaming God for everything, I decided to give Christianity a try. Ever since God's been blessing me, He somehow connected me to two of the actors performing" Greg advised. "Serious?" Sam was amazed. "Yeah, come in with me and after you can meet the crew" The couple took after his lead.

After the daughter of Mrs Smith and the son of Mrs Jones became acquainted with the cast and crew, Sam drove to Joy's house to collect Sarah’s stuff.

The three closest friends caught up for an hour and then Sam took Sarah to the field to gaze at stars.

The twosome thought of it to be too irresistible to stop looking into the others eyes and once again time stopped and allowed what was inevitable.

10 minutes later Sam started the engine and reversed back. At this moment neither of the teenagers could stop smiling.

Chapter 23

It was not till the weekend after that the lovebirds set their eyes on each other again. As of the week before Sam arranged a day out for his close friends. The rest of the group met outside an ice-cream parlour and entered the car and the owner drove off.

The first activity the group were signed up for was a sci-fi exhibition which completely blew them away.

After the gang were more than satisfied with being battered with paint they had a change of clothes. They crowded around the car and shared jokes. The driver had to attend to a serious call which had him racing to the exit. "He's ready guys" Eric said sarcastically. Sam chucked his stuff into the boot and quickly moved to Sarah. "Baby, you know that guy Greg?" Sam got her to trace back. "Yeah" Sarah remembered. "He called me to come and said it’s urgent" Sam informed his girlfriend. "What is it?" Sarah enquired. "I need to go and find out" Sam explained. "What are we supposed to do for the ride home?" Sarah wanted him to think his plan through. "Here's £20, it should be enough for you guys," he handed her money, "you can't just leave us here" Sarah felt annoyed. "Sorry babe" Sam rushed in the car and drove off speedily. Sarah told her friends what was going on before they traced their way for the train to Joy's house.

"Hey man you alright?" Sam sat on Greg’s table, "yeah sorry if I took you out of something important" Greg apologised. "Hmm well it's fine for now, my girlfriend's a bit upset with me but let's push that aside what's going on with you?" Sam focused on the matter at hand. "Before I go on, do you want a drink?" Greg showed hospitality "no I’m okay" Sam declined. "Errm it’s funny how we talking about girls because one is the reason I’m stuck" Greg outlined. "In what?" Sam asked "my ex-girlfriend is pregnant for me" Greg reported. "Whoa!" Sam reacted in a stunned manner “I was just young and stupid and still am" Sam’s friend from the resort insulted himself. “Don't be hard on yourself, we all slip up" Sam consoled Greg. “That was a huge one so that's why I told her to abort it. Man it was just too much of a yelling match" Greg groaned. "Greg, we have to face our responsibilities and this is yours, you cannot abandon her and your child. It’s scary but you need to be there for her" Sam encouraged him. “I normally would not listen to advice but yours makes sense, but I don't think I can handle it all" Greg made a statement. "You just have to support her, not do it by yourself" Sam clarified. "Thanks man" Greg appreciated Sam, "it's chilled, let me give you a ride home" Sam offered.

When Sam arrived home he had realised that no missed calls were listed on his phone log. He knew that it was running low on battery so he connected it with his charger and slept.

The next morning still his phone had no recollection of incoming calls but he knew Sarah’s frame of mind so gave her space. He hoped they would talk later in the day.

Greg went to visit his ex-girlfriend to ease her mind about his change of heart. Madison, the mother of his child reluctantly let him in and did not offer any gesture for him to stay. "I’m sorry for blasting you about our child, I was just shook up but I am gonna be here for you and the baby no matter what" he made a vow. "Do you really want to be?" Madison asked "I wasn't sure at first and that is why I told you to abort" the father of Madison’s baby supposed. "I wasn't going to listen to you, it is my baby. Nothing in the world could make me consider giving my baby up. I can do it without your help" Madison voiced out. “I know you're very strong but we're going to be a team" Madison smiled and stroked Greg’s hand.

In the following hour Sam called Sarah several times and she continued to pretend that her phone had been silenced. However by the evening she decided to return the call and asked him to meet her at the park the next day. Sam instead suggested that they met the next hour.

"Hey cuteness" Sarah was greeted by him. "I’m really upset with you" she didn’t hide her feelings. “I know, you talk and I will listen" Sam gave her the floor. "Okay...you had this really great idea for us to hang out together and we were gonna end the day with some food at Joy's and catch up and you just leave us there. You didn't even tell me what happened with that guy" Sarah laid out the facts. "Babe, Greg got himself into some trouble and he begged me not to share it with anyone but you are the only person I will break that promise for” Sam stated. “How do you mean?” Sarah wanted clarification. “Last year he went out with a girl called Madison and she is now pregnant for him. He was worried he won't be a good father and told her to abort it" he divulged the reason. "Oh no" Sarah gasped. “I told him he can't run out on her and he needs to step up and give her what she needs and he text me earlier that he's done it" he completed the back story. "Wow that is really noble of you and you did the right thing. Now I feel bad for making you tell me after you promised" she said. "No I couldn't keep it any longer from you but I guess people like me can’t be trusted" Sam criticised himself. "Honey, don't think like that please, I admire everything about you. You don't have the slightest idea of how big of a heart you've got. I will always be right behind you" Sarah declared. "I know that but it makes me feel so relaxed to hear it from you. I have never looked at anyone the same way I look at you, you will always be my dream girl, whether I wake up or stay asleep" Sam said. “I don't want anything ever to jeopardize our relationship. Our connection is so tight and no one and nothing can get through" Sarah strongly affirmed. "You know that's right love" Sam moved closer to Sarah and they kissed. Then the couple spent more time watching the sky.

At just before 10pm "next time you make a promise to keep a secret just tell me" Sarah told him. "Really, are you sure of what you're saying?" Sam needed approval. "Yes, just remind me" she said. “I understand. My memory is almost full, let's make the most of it" Sam supposed. "It won’t come out clearly" she presumed. “I got that taken care of" the couple took pictures and the two updated their phone wallpapers.

20 minutes after, "can we go and get smoothies before you take me home, I got a pound to spare" his girlfriend gave a request. "It will be good for doughnuts so don't lose it" Sam advised. "It's for the smoothie" she made it clear, "no my treat" he made his intention boldly. "You've done way too much sweetness, it’s okay I can take care of myself too" Sarah insisted. "Okay let's go" Sam grabbed her hand and walked with her to the car.

As they were having smoothies they discussed how they felt. It was just the same as the beginning of their relationship. They agreed they would never have eyes for no one else.

At 10pm, Sarah entered her room and called Joy. They talked for an hour before finally falling asleep.

In the afternoon of the next day Mr Hope was just in the middle of hoovering the house when the phone rang. Mr Hope spoke first and was in a hurry to find out who was calling. Then it was brought to light that it was his college friend, Max's dad. They briefly caught up and Max's dad made him aware that he would finish work and join him at home.

"Joy!" Tom Hope called his daughter’s name. “Yes dad" she answered her dad’s call, "someone will pay us a visit, so when they come I will call you down" Tom Hope let his daughter know. "Okay dad" Joy did not argue.

Mr Anderson knocked on the front door an hour later. Tom Hope welcomed him in and called his daughter to greet the guest. The only daughter of the family came to the top of the stairs to get a sneak peak. She turned back when she witnessed Max's dad hanging his coat. Joy went back to her room and continued to be deaf to her father yelling her name. The two fathers carried on reminiscing about their school and childhood days.

When Mr Hope tried to address the earlier issue and find out what caused it, he was denied any justification. He decided to enlist his wife to investigate but much to the mother's surprise she was still left clueless after leaving her daughter's room.

Chapter 24

A week later Joy had alienated herself from everyone, with even the failure of Sarah to get through to her. While out of the house, Joy saw Max and the tears from her eyes could not be controlled. She turned in the direction of her best friend's house.

"Hi sweetheart, come in" Mrs Smith allowed Joy. “I have been feeling down and defeated this week, to the extent that I blew off my best friend, can I please go and see her?" Beseeched Joy. "Let me just check she isn't studying or sleeping" Mrs Smith travelled upstairs.

"Love, Joy wants to come up and talk to you" Mrs Smith attempted to diffuse some of the tension. "Tough for her, I tried to talk to her and she shut me out so tell her to leave" Charlotte’s daughter did not see the need to plead. "You will feel better when she airs her worries" Mrs Smith trusted. "no thank you" Miss Smith rejected her mum’s opinion. "Okay" Mrs Smith went to Joy. "Joy you can go up" Mrs Smith permitted Joy. "Did she really say that?" Joy wanted to be sure. "Just go" Mrs Smith whispered to Joy.

“Hi” Joy said. "Mum I said you should make her leave!" Carl’s sibling exclaimed. "Sorry must have misunderstood!!" Charlotte yelled. "Sarah I am really sorry you haven't heard from me. I have been in complete shock and pain" Joy explained. "No that's fine, obviously you believe that no one else has been in that position, even I couldn't fit in your shoes" Sarah depicted. "Don't think of it that way, I just wanted to get my head straight before I told you the whole story but then I remembered you have always been good at doing that for me so I had to break the silence" Joy spoke. "So it was meant to take that long for you to come to your senses?" Joy was interrogated. "Yes so please forgive me because I am lonely without you" Joy begged. "Okay come on" Joy was invited into her bed and she divulged her recent experience.

When everything was out in the open, Sarah had Joy wrapped in her arms and her head under her neck. "I know it is difficult but you will overcome this and you will never be by yourself. You are the one person who gets me so much and you deserve the same from me so stop crying" Sarah comforted her.

The next day, Joy felt better after being true to her best friend. They dressed up and went to roam about in the shops. Much to Joy's disgust, the girls saw Max as they walked by some shops. "Let's move quickly now" Joy tried to rush them. "Joy you can not run from your problems, they will just follow you" Miss Smith answered. "Joy!" Max repeatedly called her name. When Joy continuously ignored him and they reached the car park of the shopping centre, Max decided to run after her. "Joy please I really want to talk to you" Max alleged. "About what?" Joy enquired. "Us, we haven't had a proper chance to talk" Max answered "why do we need to?" Joy asked. "Just want to get some things in the open" Max replied. Sarah called Sam to be able to let her two friends talk, "hi babe, how are you?" "I’m fine and you?" Sam responded. "Yeah, me too what are you up to?” Sarah replied. "Researching a course I might sign up to" Sam told Sarah. "Ooh tell me more" Sarah finally left where they were standing. Max explained in detail what the problem was and Joy remained speechless until she felt it was time to step in.

“I really do not accept what you are saying. You don't care about me, don't try and sell that story" Joy refused. "Joy you know that's a lie I really do care about you and I miss you. I really want us to be friends like before please" pleaded the son of Mr Anderson, "not when I still like you or even ever" Joy turned down. "I don't want to not have you in my life please let's be friends" Joy’s family friend stated. “I am not ready Max" Sarah’s best friend confessed, "okay take my new number, when you are just dial ok” he handed her a piece of paper. “I know you are upset with me but hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me" Max left her hand and walked away. "J, is everything okay?" Joy’s best friend returned. "Yeah, he wants us to be friends again, but I just can't deal with that" Joy reiterated. "There's no rush, take your time but consider it because it was nice of him to do that" they started walking to the bus stop.

A couple of days following that, Greg and Madison were waiting for the traffic lights to turn red before crossing the road. Greg held Madison’s hand as they crossed. "Greg, what do you think you're doing?!" A voice spurted out. "Who are you to talk to me like that?!" Greg reacted in a raised voice. "Virginia, your ex-girlfriend. So because of you I had to give up my baby but you have decided to help her look after hers" Virginia understood. "What are you on about? I didn't make you do nothing" Sam’s holiday friend uttered. “I knew you wouldn't take responsibility for the baby so I forced myself to abort it" Virginia said. "You don't make my decisions for me. You are in control of what you do, you did it for yourself and by yourself it is not my problem" he denied. "Don't even play, you will get bad reviews" she disagreed with. "You did not even tell me about it, what did you want me to do?! If you won't involve anyone in your plans then you have to deal with it. Don't come and guilt trip me" Madison and Greg left her there.

It was now evening when Joy had woken up from her power nap. She heard the front door open and close and knew her dad had arrived so went to greet him "hi dad”. "Hello cherub, how are you?" Mr Hope entreated. "I’m fine thank you, how was work?" Joy conjured. "Busy but manageable" Mr Hope gave an answer, "all that I heard was manageable and it's good enough for me" Joy joked and Mr Hope laughed. "Dad I just had a great idea" Joy said, "what's that?" He asked. "When mum gets back while we are eating we can watch a movie and play games like we used to" Joy suggested. "That is a fine idea but what about Jay?" Her dad thought about, "she's gone out" she let him know. “I see, well I’m up for that, your mum should be here in an hour" her dad added. "Great, but first can we have a chat please?" Joy requested, "yeah sure just let me get changed and will be back downstairs" the dad replied, “okay I will wait for you" Heather Hope’s daughter remarked. "So I don't need to put the light off then" her dad assumed. "Why?" The daughter asked back "you said you want to wait for me" Mr Hope teased his daughter. "You know I meant the living room" she thought. "You have to say what you mean and mean what you say" the dad teased her. "Haha" she responded, "ok I will be down in a bit" Mr Hope replied.

As a result of Mr Hope sitting with his daughter to give her his undivided attention she began. “I know you have noticed that I have been a bit off lately. It's because Max and I are no longer on good terms and I am not over it yet" Joy unmasked her weird behaviour. "Oh no why?" Mr Hope tried to examine. “I don't really wanna get into that, it just stopped working out" Joy briefly disclosed. "Joy, I’m sorry about that, I wasn't aware. You should have told me earlier" Mr Hope expected. "I’m sorry dad" Miss Hope apologised, "no my dear it is rather me who has to be sorry. I haven't made you feel comfortable enough to discuss your problems with me. I have to tell you that your mum, you and Jay are the most important women currently in my life and I will always do my best for you. You all mean so much to me. You can always talk to me okay, I will never stop listening to you and wanting to cheer you up" Mr Hope hugged his daughter. “Thank you dad” Joy said. "This seems very difficult but you will most definitely get through it okay" Joy’s dad comforted her. "Thank you so much, I love you and mum immensely" Jay’s cousin announced. “I know you do, I hope you feel better" Joy’s dad awaited her comeback. "No... I am lots better" Joy hugged him tightly. "Okay let's go and make food before mum comes" Joy followed her dad.

As planned the family enjoyed some quality time together and they all went to bed reasonably late.

Chapter 25

Some weeks had drifted by and Joy and Max had started to rekindle their friendship. Sarah’s and Sam’s relationship was more unbreakable than ever. Greg had made a decision to follow Madison to her parents’ house. There they would prepare for the birth of their baby so Madison started to sort her things into suitcases. Meanwhile Greg called Sam "hey man what's up?" "Nothing much just at home" Sam responded. "Cool, I have got news for you. Madison is 7 months pregnant. We're moving to her parents in the north today so they can give her more help" Greg declared. "Wow that's good man" Sam saluted the about to be dad. “I wanna thank you man for how much you have helped me. Even though I hadn't heard from you in a while, you have been checking up on me and been there for me. Thanks man" Greg also established what he was grateful to Sam for. "No problem I’m glad you took that bold step. Whenever you need me just holla" Sam commented. “I will do that. Take care of yourself and your lady" Greg told Sam. "(Laughs) I will don't worry" he assured him, "don't make the same mistakes I did please" Sam was pleaded with. "At least you are doing something about it" Sam exhibited understanding. “True, I gotta go. Madison wants me so we'll be in touch" Greg affirmed. "Bless man" Greg hung up and Sam could not contain his smile.

Sarah was in her favourite and oldest pyjamas, conversing with Tina Halm when she was notified. (Me) "You are so unbelievable!! Hey Tina, Sam is calling me, but I’ll call you back as soon as we finish, maybe an hour" I promised. "No it’s ok, I will call you another time and tell you about the other day" Tina also vowed. "Alright then, later" I accepted and took Sam’s call, "hey Sam". "Hey, how is your day going?" Sam asked. "I’m just snuggling in my bed, you?" Sarah answered, "not much, just looking to buy some new computer games" my sweet guy told me. "You're only by the computer every so often" I knew, "no I play on this almost everyday. Now I have mastered all the levels, so I need a challenge" he sounded determined "oooh, found good ones yet?" I showed interest. "Barely, can I speak to Tom please?" My guy made a plea. "Why?" I rejoined "just to get his opinion" Sam answered, "don't you know highly recommended ones?" I didn’t want to let him go. "Not many, is he far from you?" He pursued Tom "no I’ll call him but not too long because I miss you" I confessed. “I won't and I miss you too, give us 10-15 minutes" he guaranteed. "Okay then" I went down to give my phone to my brother. I dialled Tina’s home number but unexpectedly her mum told me she had gone out. I indicated to Tom where I would be and he nodded.

(Writer) In the next hour Tom brought Sarah’s phone to her and she put it on her ear assuming Sam was still on the line "Sam..hello" "he isn't there you doughnut" Tom said. "Why did he go off? You know I wanted to talk to him" Sarah made a big deal of. “I know and I don't care, but he said he will call you back so stop complaining" Tom demanded, "when?" She required, “I don't know" Tom couldn’t give a time. "Okay, you can go now" Sarah slithered into her bed and turned her face away from her phone but her heart jumped when her phone rang. The couple talked for a while however Sarah was less than appreciative when the conversation had to end.

As time went on, Sam was committing to less time with Sarah to hang out with Tom. Sarah decided to get on with her own things. When it got to the point for Sarah to feel the need to come clean with Sam, she made herself deal with the fact that her boyfriend was an only child.

Chapter 26

Months ensuing that..

Sam texted Sarah to go online for them to communicate via messenger. 'No Sarah I'm not choosing him over you, he's just really good at those games’ Sam threw Tom a compliment. ‘You really are but it's alright. You need him more than I do, since you didn't get a brother’ Sarah saw it as the way of Sam being compensated. ‘I didn't even see it that way but you're right’ Sam replied to his girlfriend's message. ‘Yeah so I'm just going to give you your space and hopefully we will get back on track soon’ Sarah typed to Sam. ‘I don't need more space from you, all this time away from you has made me feel lonely’ Sam sent back. ‘You've had your games and I know how you feel about your games’ Sarah assigned. ‘I enjoy it but will pick you over many things’ Sam delivered to Sarah. ‘Don't worry I know you can't be with me all the time and you need your own friends so I'll cancel our chat and you message him on a new one' his girlfriend made him know. 'Why?' Sam responded. 'Lol. You have clearly forgotten what Tom is capable of revealing. By the time we realise half of Summerfield knows our business' Sarah feared. 'Sarah he has matured a lot trust me. But I meant why are you leaving?' Sarah didn’t want to be a third wheel 'so you can catch up' Miss Smith sent. 'Not when we haven't, please don't go. I miss you and I am here just because of you’ ‘I don't want to be selfish’ Sarah disapproved of in her message. ‘I want you to be selfish because sometimes it just has to be about you and I’ Sam confirmed. ‘Has my complaining not been too much?' Sarah assumed. 'It has but I know you are feeling left out, but you would feel worse if it was against your will. You need this registered in your head, you are irreplaceable especially by someone in your own family ok?’ He wanted to make it clear. ‘Thank you for the clarification’ his gorgeous girl appreciated. ‘Actually let me call you, I’m bored of talking to you without hearing your voice’ Sam charmed her. ‘Okay, chat to you in a minute’. Sarah and Sam both logged off. Then Sarah went upstairs and back to her bed before her boyfriend called.

“Hi” Sam greeted her. “Hi” she greeted him. “So what have you been getting up to?" Sam continued. "I’ve been debating with myself to do fashion work experience" Tom’s sister briefed him. "Why debate, you should definitely do it. To train yourself and give you ideas for your career, it will be perfect for you" he cheered her on. "I know you're right, but it's because the other day I saw an ad about a nursery that just opened a few weeks ago. They're looking for paid helpers and it seems fun" Carl’s oldest sibling broke down. "Can you see yourself working with children more than having your designing studio?" Sam inquired. "Not necessarily right now but I will learn lots of different things seeing how the adults handle the children" she believed. "You still have a baby in your house, so you have your own experience" Sam pointed out. "Exactly so it can be my secret weapon, or...?" Sarah left open. "I guess, it's just that you are so good at drawing and I want you to be the best. You will have lots more going on there" her boyfriend shared. "Children are also always moving around, doing lots of activities" Sarah argued. "Sure" he said passively "Sam, do you not think I will be good with children?" She required. "It’s not that, I just assumed you might be bored with it and you want a break" Sam clarified, "not in the slightest" she claimed. "Okay, if that is what will make you feel most fulfilled you should go and apply" Sam prompted her. "Okay I’ll call you back Tom wants me" Sarah went to open her door. "Sarah I have a little problem" Tom admitted. “What’s it to do with?" The sister questioned, “a girl" Tom said. "Okay I will be down in 5 minutes" Tom went downstairs.

(Me) I sat down and he began, "there is this new Italian girl called Daphne. Her parents stayed there to run a small business. She stayed with her auntie and uncle. Then her parents moved back a few years ago and she started the school recently" Tom informed her. "So when will I hear the dilemma?" I rushed "she fancies me but I’m not ready to be paid so much attention. How do I tell her?" Tom inquired. "Tell her what you like about her and gently break it to her, but are you really sure she likes you?" I wanted to check "yes" he stated. "Then you have to judge how to not hurt her feelings. As long as you are not making up stories, then just be nice to her and be good friends. If she definitely likes you she will wait for the right time" I advised. "Thank you Sarah, that actually helped me, I am glad I told Sam that I couldn't play games today" I grinned "how do you find Sam?" I asked. "He is a good guy and he really likes you and sees in you what I did not realize for ages. You are a kind and thoughtful person and you always support me. Even when I put you at the middle of embarrassing situations, you are still proud to call me your brother, love you sis" Sarah wiped the single tear from her eye. “I'm going to get ready for bed, when I go to school I will let her down easy" Tom replied. She fanned herself and called Sam.

(Me) "Hey Sam, you alright now?" I probed. "Yeah just tired, sorry if I was a bit snappy" he acknowledged. "I’ve completely forgotten about it, because none of my family members have found a bad thing to say about you. They all cannot dare to testify against the reasons I fell in love with you. I can still see how hard it is to throw off your charm" I alleged. "It's nice to know that you have tried" he replied, "yeah" she said "..and failed" he inserted. "Oh...alright" Sarah replied. "(laughs) I don't ever want you to stop finding me charming or me going to bed without there being a smile on your face" Sam was sweet. "Aww, I do often lose sight of that. It now makes more sense to me why I have had to share you with my brother because he told me that there was no one better for me or cooler than you. Even though he says that your team sucks, he would gladly go with you to cheer them on" she gave a report. "That's really cool. I challenged him on fifa but he said he had plans. I figured he asked that girl out" Sam answered. "What girl?" Sarah entreated. "Didn't he tell you about a girl he likes?" Sam contributed to our dialogue "no only about a girl that likes him but he doesn't want to be in a relationship right now" I started to suspect a lie. "That's not what he told me but carry on" Sam showed more interest. "He will talk to her tomorrow saying he just wants to be friends" I carried on. "Actually come to think of it I remember that too, and that's why you are the best sister and he trusts you" he admitted. "Obviously not that much since he told you first" Sarah used as a reason "but he gave you the full detail" Sam defended Tom. "True but thank you for keeping him out of trouble" I expressed gratitude. "Well I hope he will be in my life for a long time so it’s necessary” Sam said. "True, where would you see yourself living in the next decade?" I quizzed my boyfriend. "I’m hoping to be in a nice two bedroom apartment for my family to enjoy" Sam responded. “I figured that you would have wanted us to be living together by then" she spoke. "Of course I meant with you, but I’m just not settled on the area yet" he assured his girl. "I assume you only want one child" Sarah brought in. "No..3 or 4, but I wouldn't want us to bite off more than we can chew, so our first child will stay with us until the right age and will get his or her own room. By the time we have the second baby, we can then buy a house, unless you haven't thought that far ahead" Sam held back. "You're in charge, I mean it sounds fair enough, as long as its us, Martin, Alysha, Brooke and Ethan" Sarah stepped in "did you know I wanted four?" He wondered. I thought you would just say one to be honest" Sarah spoke candidly. "No way, it can deny me the chance to have a son, but if four will be overwhelming for you especially if God gives you four boys I understand" he mocked me. "Hahaha keep quiet" they continued to discuss future plans and bond.

Chapter 27

(Writer) The next day, Tom felt very afraid to confront the girl that paid him much attention. In the end the son of Mr Smith was able to be honest with the girl and was relieved at how the newest student took it. She was more than happy to remain friends.

It was later that afternoon Tom summarized the situation to his sister and continued to play with his games. Since Tom did not seem interested in inviting her boyfriend round to be player two she decided to call him to tell him some news.

“Hi babe, I miss you lots" she freely confessed. “I am sure you do and it angers you that am so far away" Sam exaggerated. "Don't get carried away, but I am glad I don't have to share you with my brother today" she revelled in. “I didn't think you could be this jealous and selfish, so disappointed" he emphasized. "It's ok you will get over it in no time so anyway...Tomorrow I have an interview with the nursery" she noticed silence. "Sam?" She checked to see if he was there. "Yeah" he made her feel he was listening. "If I pass they will call me for an induction so if I tell you the place can you take me please?" Joy’s friend asked for a favour. "It's nice you always think of me when you need a ride somewhere" her boyfriend stressed. "When something good happens I always think of telling you and I love your reactions to them" Miss Smith vocalised. "What about if I said I can't take you?" He got hypothetical. “I would ask why" she gave a reply. "Aha so on this occasion that is why you told me first" he assumed, "no, because I want to inform you of everything that happens to me, what would make you say that? I could have told Joy who is my best friend but I turn to you first, don't say things like that please" she told him off. "You didn't answer my question, how would you get there if I couldn't drive you?" The only child of Mrs Jones questioned his friend’s best friend. “I could easily get there on train but you came to my mind so that we can spend more time together and you will be the first person I can hug if I pass. If that does not seem a legitimate reason to ask you then I better start calculating my route" she gave up. "You can do that and send me the directions. It will be my pleasure to take you, I’m sorry if I upset you. I did not mean it like that, just worrying you" he stopped. "Then well done, so will you really take me?" She wanted to be sure. "Yeah familiarize yourself with the journey because you will be my GPS" Sarah giggled. "Fine by me, I will call you back soon yeah" she said "alright bye" he responded.

After sunrise..

"Morning wonderful" Charlotte’s oldest child recognised her boyfriend at her door. "My cute lady, you ready?" The boyfriend wanted to know. "You bet I am, no way they can reject me, not if God has the last word" Sarah Smith believed. "They would be mad to" he agreed. “I know right" she said, "you got food for the ride?" Sam queried. "Yeah but my interview is at 11 so we can't spare much time" she predicted. "You just take care of our snacks" Sam ordered, "yes boss" Sam was saluted. "Glad you understand, let's set off now" the couple got inside the car and Sam took off.

At 12 pm Miss Smith cheerily jumped into her boyfriend's arms and he smiled along with her as they travelled to the car. The young adults delayed their journey home, to revisit the places where they had their best dates. The couple continued their quality time at Sarah’s house.

After Sam was completely up to date with Sarah’s new volunteering venture she was dropped off to run an errand. On her way Kirk saw his daughter and blew his car horn. Then Sarah turned her head and she waved to her dad.

Max called Sarah to give her some information "hey Sarah, you busy?” "Not really, what’s up?" Joy’s dearest friend asked. "I’m really thinking of asking Joy to be my girlfriend" Max confessed. "What brought this on?" Sarah didn’t accept easily. "It seems she is the only girl who really gets me and I think I love her" Max disclosed. "Are you really sure of what you're saying, because I’m not in favour of you coming back in her life only to leave again" Sarah forewarned him. "I know and I don't want to hurt her again" Max asserted. "How can I be sure what made you hurt her in the first place will not strike you again?" Sarah asked. “I don't know but I’m willing to give it a try" Max testified. "You really need to be positive you wanna be with her. So for now focus on being her friend. Let her be confident to trust you again and see where it goes" she offered counsel. "Alright I will cool out for a bit, thanks Sarah" Max took her advice, "it's cool" Sarah said. "I’ll catch you later" Max replied "bye" she spoke.

Chapter 28

After a couple of weeks passed, on a certain day, Sarah and her boyfriend took it in turns to send messages to the other.

A time in the day came when Sam decided to break the chain and call his girlfriend, “I love you, but I have some bad news. Are you sitting in an upright position?" "No, just say it" she wanted the bad news to come out of Sam. "You're pretty" Sam hesitated. "Sam stop messing about and tell me" Sarah pushed him. "The course is soon going to be in its second season but they don't want me there" Sam divulged. "Oh no why?" His girlfriend requested. "They recommended me for a project overseas" he no longer delayed in spreading the news. "So you will go one morning and come the next day how many times?" Joy’s and Sam’s friend anticipated. "No they want me there for two weeks" Sam made clear. "So I’m not gonna see you till next month?" Sarah worked out. "If I say yes to the offer, I told them I’m in the process of looking for jobs so they thought it would be worthwhile to accept especially because they think I could be really good there" the guy who advised Greg elaborated. "So will you eventually have to move there?" Sarah jumped ahead. “I think it’s just this for now but if I am you will definitely join me. We will worry about that at the correct time" her boyfriend did not dwell on. “I really don't know what to do with this" the girlfriend groaned. “I know it's bad and that’s why I struggled to tell you" Sam laid down. "You said it was bad but still can't register it" she was shocked.

Sarah didn’t talk for what felt like an hour to Sam. “I don't wanna leave you but we will still talk every day" Sam arranged. "It will be expensive" Sarah worried, "staying in touch is more logical for me. Don't worry yeah" Sam put his girlfriend first. "Well I can't stop you from going so I have to be okay with it" she began to digest the bad news. "Okay let’s look at the calling rates and we will put some money aside" he proposed. “I will not get a new balance till the end of next week" Sarah was truthful. "That’s fine you call when you get the chance" he adjusted to. “I guess and two weeks isn't bad" Miss Smith made herself believe. "Oh, no I meant 4" Sam dropped another bombshell "4 weeks?" Sarah almost stopped breathing. "Yeah" he said "seriously?" She hunted for reality. "Nah" he denied, "you always pick the wrong time" she disapproved of. "(laughs) It’s definitely two weeks, I will leave Monday morning" the boyfriend notified her. "You’ve booked the flight already?" She enquired. "No they did, also if I go and do not like it they will refund the deposit I paid" Sam tried to make it more bearable. "Cool" she displayed calmness, "so you will be alright?" Mr Jones’ son hoped. “I will be...in 5 seconds" Sarah gave herself time. “I know you too well, thanks for understanding babe" her boyfriend was relaxed. "Of course" Sarah smiled and breathed a sigh of relief.

12th March

The day had come when Sarah had to get up early to help Sam prepare for his 2 week trip and when the moments crept up on her that he was leaving. "I'm gonna miss you" she made it clear, "I am already missing you right now" Sam remarked. "You're gonna be having fun and I will have nothing" Sarah grumbled. "You have your placement" Sam included, "ahh that’s not enough" the third oldest in the Smith family predicted. "Am I hearing you say that you're not cut out for it and you're giving up?" Sam challenged the girl he loved. "No that I won’t have much else doing" the girl he loved reinforced, "you sound like you've made a big mistake" Sam analysed her reaction. "Whatever Sam, you need to get your ears checked" Sarah communicated. "No I don't" Sarah turned her attention to her phone, "but you'll be alright, all your friends and family are with you. Besides you know I’ll be thinking about you and you’ll always be up to date" he aimed to release some of her anxiety. "I know that too well, at least I will not be distracted" she relished in. "Yes you will because you will be telling me about the placement, every mishap" Mr Jones’ son stated. "If I didn’t have you to root for me I’d be lost” she gave in response to his tormenting. "(chuckles) I know but I won't allow it" Sam refuted. "Have you got money for your trip?" Sarah asked. "They will sort me out, and gonna be in a hotel" he relayed what he was told. “I wish I can come with you, have some time together and I will be enjoying all your perks" she pretended to come across as selfish. "Wow you have just told me the bright side" he responded. "Thanks, how you getting to the airport, a private car?" She wondered. "Yep" he answered, "they did not miss a thing out. When will it be here?" Sarah enquired. "It’s already out there" Sam made her aware, "so what you doing just sitting here?" Sarah questioned his speed, "don't worry it’s not going anywhere" he assured her. "You'll get charged" Sarah prompted him. "Why would you do that?" Sam asked, "not me the driver" Sarah meant. "Yeah you gonna take me and bring the car back" he clarified. “I’m not confident" she threw caution. "Yes you are" Sam encouraged her, "no I’m not" Joy’s best friend repeated. "You should be happy I am making a way for you to see me longer but if you don't want it, a car can be here in no time" Sam gave options. "No I want to" she decided "good, so I should get a kiss" Sam hinted. "It’s reserved" Sam went over the things he needed in his head.

60 minutes later

“I love you Sam" Miss Smith advocated, “I love you more, we'll go on a trip one day don't be sad. I wouldn’t want you to skip your placement and maybe this is your calling" Sam suggested. "Maybe you're right" she accepted. "My flight is three hours, so give me two extra to settle in and I will call you" Sam let her know. "Please do, I won’t be asleep" Sarah vowed. "(laughs) Better not, I only have like 10 minutes till I have to board and I don't want to drag on bye byes" Sam asserted. "It’s nice to know you want to leave me quickly" she became sad about. "Don't say that, I will miss you so much" Sam embraced Sarah tightly and they kissed in Sarah’s sadness. Before Sam boarded they prayed and said bye. After they waved to one another, Sarah walked away.

Joy came to give company to her best friend and cheer her up and she was semi successful.

At 4 pm when Sam called, she saw it as her time to leave. At the same time she received a call from Max.

During the conversation Joy crossed the road and saw Max on the way. They hung up and talked face to face. Max told her he desperately wanted to talk to her after he thanked her for complimenting him on his scent. Max escorted Joy to her house.

After entering her living room, Joy switched on the TV, "so what shows do you watch?" Joy inquired. "Anything really, but what I never miss is Mr Bean" Max divulged. "Oh my gosh, Sarah and I can't get enough of Mr Bean, he is so hilarious. I think there is one that has just started" Joy claimed. "It’s quarter to 5 so it’s halfway over" Max said. "Oh we can still watch a bit" they watched the comedy till the end and not in the least bit silently.

After Joy started to browse through the channels, she became overwhelmed with excitement that her newest favourite was about to start. "This is actually the best show ever, have you heard of New York: Break Out?" Joy implored. "Nope, is it good?" He made an enquiry. "Extremely, just watch" Miss Hope increased the volume.

The next hour flew by and Joy and Max were talking when she remembered something "oh no". "What?" Max wanted to know. "You wanted to tell me something" the TV was put off. "Oh yeah, well, I had something I wanted to say, and what it is..is err..sorry I’m feeling a bit nervous" Max trembled, "oh that’s ok I will wait for you till you're ready, go on" Max continued to stutter. "Ok maybe I should put the TV on and you let me know when you are more calm" Joy made a suggestion. "No I can do it now" Max put himself forward. "Are you sure?" Joy asked. "Yeah (clears throat) you are really beautiful, fun and caring. For a long time I was unsure whether I deserved you. You're better than the other girls I’ve dated" Joy blushed and smiled. "You have a mind of your own and I can't push you out of mine. I really adore you and don't wanna ever let you go, I just can't" Max communicated. "Wow, I can't say I saw this coming" Joy expressed. "Me neither but I want you to give me another chance" Max requested. "That is an even bigger surprise, but I don't know if I’m ready for that. I’m scared something will scare you off" Miss Hope laid down. "That's cool, you take whatever time you need but all I said I meant" Max squeezed her hand "thank you. Should we watch more TV?" Joy inquired. "Sure" Joy switched the TV back on and they watched together.

Chapter 29

The following week Joy called her best friend to check up on her. "Hey darling you alright?" "Yeah I am J and you?" The other best friend came back with. "I’m happy, you going placement tomorrow?" Miss Hope investigated. "No not tomorrow" Miss Smith answered. "Why?" Joy needed an explanation. “I only have it for 4 days a week so it is my day off tomorrow. What’s the story?" Sarah could sense some news. "I will come round tomorrow at 9" Joy mentioned. "No why are you happy?" Sarah cut her off, "because I’m coming to spend the whole day with you. I miss my one and only" Joy reported "aww same here my sweetheart" the older sister of two concurred. "You just saying that to make me want to stay over, nice try" Joy identified. "Aww, so what we gonna eat?" Sarah inquired. "It’s your house and you are the cook, so I’m not fussed" Joy was ready to go along with anything. “I’m the one who's depressed here" Sam’s girlfriend moaned. "Oh cut the act, I know you guys have been talking every day since last week" Jay’s older cousin guessed. "Wow, it has already been a week, and did he not give you his number to call him?" Sarah tried to find out. "He did and I tried the other day but he didn’t pick up" Joy mentioned. "How many times did you try?" Miss Smith wondered, "just once" Joy said. "You should have tried again" I supposed. "Obviously he don’t wanna talk to me if he hasn’t called me" Joy brought up. "Don't say that, you guys were friends way before I moved here. I even remember him telling me he tried calling and you didn’t pick" Sarah defended her boyfriend. "No foreign numbers have called my phone" Joy told her friend. "That is what he told me" Sam’s girl came back with. "It's okay we can talk when he is back" Joy tolerated. “I will talk to him about it when he calls, but I’ll see you tomorrow yeah" Sarah refocused on them. "Okay bye" Joy avowed.

The next morning Sarah decided to round up her conversation with Sam after hearing a knock on the door. "Joy is here so I have to go" Joy’s long time friend gave him notice. "Alright babe love you" Sam stated. "Love you too" she said "don't tell Joy about the number" Sam pleaded. "I won’t, enjoy your day" Sarah wished him.

"Hey honeybuns" Sarah acknowledged Joy’s presence. "Hi, let me guess that was Sam right?" Joy took a stab in the dark, "of course who else?" Sarah made it more obvious. "See he still don't wanna call me" Joy alleged "it’s not that" Sam’s girlfriend told her. "Then what is it?" Joy saw a chance for Sam to redeem himself. "You can't tell him I told you" Sarah charged. "Being your best friend is the one job I know how to do, unless someone has replaced me" Joy replied. "No you're fine, instead of adding 4 to the end he added 7, and he called like 5 times. Then the person called and he said 'Joy'. The person hung up and he tried again and he said 'Joy it’s me Sam'. He first spoke in a different language before changing to English and said 'Sam it’s me not Joy' and he was so embarrassed" Joy sputtered out in laughter. "Aww he is so cute. I feel bad for him but you know you can’t hold in your laughter" Joy expected. "Yesterday I didn’t, and I don’t want more" Sarah resisted "come on" Sarah joined in. "Please don't tell him you know and he will call you later I think when you get home" Sarah appeased her. "That would be sweet" Joy was in agreement "so what should we start the day off with?" Miss Smith wondered. "Golden nuggets" Joy sang. "You are on time, mum just bought 3 boxes, and they're huge" Kirk’s daughter stressed. "So I can take some home" Joy believed. "Even better" Miss Smith posed as good news, "what?" Joy asked, "you can use what you call money and buy your own" Sarah dramatized. "Awww" Joy frowned. "You better enjoy it today" Sarah demanded. “I will when I get a big bowl" Miss Hope said. “I can allow that” Joy’s best friend allowed.

(Me) 20 minutes later we took the big bowls filled with cereal in the living room when Joy's alarm rang. "Don't tell me you have to go" I hoped, "where exactly would I be going?” My bestie required "you're right" I said. "What! Our show has been on for five minutes" Joy rushed to get the remote, and spilled some milk "oops I will clean it up on break" she told me. "It’s cool" we laughed hard as we watched incessantly then we turned it to MR bean and also took delight in that.

(Writer) After this when the girls started to converse Joy could not conceal her smile and was unaware that Sarah knew why so carried on.

"Joy you are trying to hide what I’m sure I already know" Sarah caught her off guard. "What?" Joy asked, "He called you isn't it?" Sarah didn’t want to reveal what she was recently told. "No he came round and told me he has feelings for me" Max’s new interest brought light on what she knew. “So what happened exactly?” Her female companion dug deeper. “He said he can't push me out of his mind, that out of the girls he has been with I’m the only one he hasn’t wasted time on and he didn’t feel right for me" Joy summarised. "Aww wow that is double sweet" Sarah remarked. "Does it sound honest?" Joy checked for verification. "Yeah" Sarah approved. "So I should believe him?" Miss Hope required. "It’s your choice if you want to be with him, if you're ready to take that risk. You have to decide to pick the call or leave it to voicemail. Whatever you do I will hold the phone for you" Sarah spoke figuratively. "Aww you are my sweetheart" Joy phrased. "Hey that was mine first" Sam’s girlfriend whined, “who cares?" Joy hugged Sarah. "You're the favourite of all my favourites" Sarah commented, "aww does Sam know?" Joy asked, “I don't care" Miss Smith stated. "Shall I pass that on to Sam for you?" Joy inquired, "no problem because I can also call Max and tell him you said you will never like him" a threat was issued against Miss Hope. "You wouldn’t dare" Joy supposed "wouldn’t you?" Sam’s girlfriend enquired. "Nope" Joy chickened out. "You know best” Sarah claimed “shut up" Joy ordered Miss Smith. "Err sorry I think he is calling now" Sarah teased her dear friend "no please don't" Joy begged. "Alright I won’t, what is your game plan?" Carl’s female sibling asked. “I told him I am not ready especially because of you" Joy involved Sarah. "How am I to blame?" Sarah sought for clarification. "No I wanted to ask your opinion" Joy gave clarification. “I wasn’t happy when he hurt you but I know there was a time he really liked you. If you want to give him a chance I will totally back you but I can’t choose for you" her friend was straight. "Please" the confused one requested "No" the friend with a boyfriend declined. "Aww, well I will give it time" Joy settled on. "If you say so" the ladies continued spending time together with the littlest of the Smiths while Mrs Smith cooked.

The girls were eating when Sam called Sarah. "Hey baby, I’ve been thinking of you lots today" Sarah voiced out. "Aww that’s nice me too, I had a really cool day. We did so much and I’m ready for more" Sam expressed. "That’s good then, I’m happy and even more that you are coming back next week" she stated. "Not me, I’m having fun" he was not regretful. "Did they extend your stay?" Carl’s sister inquired. “I wish. The project will end day after tomorrow. Next, we will do sight seeing and there’s a big lunch and we will go to the beach and sailing" Sam listed. “You are really having fun and you lied" she replied, "how?" Sam asked. "You’re not thinking about me at all" Sarah accused. "Of course I am. I wish we could do it together, I will see if we can come back here" he affirmed. "We shall see" Sarah felt unsure. "If you don't have faith nothing will happen" Sam answered, "yeah we will see" Sarah was in doubt. "(laughs) Is Joy still around?" Sam wanted to know. "Yeah" She answered. "Can I talk to her?" Sam requested for permission. "I thought you will call her later" Sarah thought. "Yeah but while she is there wanna talk to her now too" Sarah handed the phone to Joy and they talked whilst Sarah kept eating. After she returned from the kitchen she played with Carl.

Once the hour conversation between two of the oldest friends was over the best friends watched a full length movie with dessert. At 8 the girls got ready to end the day with each other. "Bye J" Sarah bid farewell to her closest friend, "bye S" Joy returned her farewell. "Sorry you can't make a cool name for me" Sarah felt sorry for. "Don't worry you are cool enough without it but will come up with one for you" Joy chose to do. "Aww" Sarah hugged her long time friend. "I’ll be back the day before Sam comes and sleep over" Joy set up. "As long as you're gone by 9 in the morning so I can prepare myself to get him" Joy put on a straight face. "(giggles) I’m joking girl, can't wait" Sarah closed the door behind Joy and went to clean the house for her mother.

Successive to that she went to accompany her mum in bed. Miss Smith received texts from Joy and Sam but put her phone aside to entertain her mother.

Chapter 30

Two days following then..

Max Anderson for a long time was comfortable with one way of life but certain events made him want to make changes. He was inspired by one person to do two things: find out for himself about Christianity and to behave like a man and begin to value Joy the way she deserved. He realised he cared about her in a different way than he thought was possible. He decided to express himself to her. This was getting to six weeks after he confessed to Sarah.

He knocked on her door and she came to open. "Max what are you doing here?" Joy implored. “There’s something I need to say" Max alerted Miss Hope. "Okay come inside" Joy understood his urgency. When they were comfortable, Max moved next to her as much as possible. "What is it Max?" Joy's heart started to beat. It was then Max kissed her and Joy received it warmly. "Joy please I really want you to give me another chance" Max had landed on a decision. “I don't know Max, I like you but I am not sure if I can handle taking a risk and getting hurt again" Joy was not convinced by Max’s gesture. "Joy I know where you are coming from. I promise I don't want to make you feel that way again, trust me" asserted Max. “I need some time" she preferred. "Okay when you are ready let me know" Max made an exit.

Joy was laid out on her bed 2 days later. She daydreamed of a place that she liked so much before Joy knew Max’s intention. She sadly started to doodle and produced an accurate replica. She pulled a tissue out of the box to wipe her tears and blow her nose. When it was done she left it on her bed and left her room. It then fell on the floor and Jay thinking it was meant for the rubbish, loosely scrunched it and took it to the hallway. Joy then returned to her room and settled into the covers before she remembered an extra part for the drawing but could not see it where she was sure she left it. She looked under her bed which then made her leave her room and check places she had just visited. Before going to retrace her steps, she saw a paper in a bag and when flattened saw it was her doodle. "JJ, how did this paper get to the bag in front of the stairs?" Joy commenced an inspection. "It’s rubbish so I threw it there" Jay explained herself. "So you can do a better job right?" Joy checked. "No I mean it was on the floor so I thought it was rubbish, I haven't even looked at it" Jay broke down. "Well you don't just assume, you ask first and you shouldn't have seen it in my room anyway" Joy didn’t approve. "It is my day to get the rubbish out" the younger cousin truthfully spoke. "That’s not the point and don't do that again" Joy ran upstairs.

The next hour Mrs Hope arrived home with groceries. "Hi girls!" Joy went to help with the shopping while Jay was on the net and needed something from Joy's room. Then she discovered the doodle Joy did and thought it was good and took it with her to submit it to a competition she saw an ad for.

Two days after, Jay was the first to wake and went to release the mail from the letter box and excitedly ran to her cousin's room. "Joy, there's good news for you" announced Jay. “I didn't enter any competition" Joy knew. “I did it for you" Jay admitted. "You did what?" Joy interrogated her cousin. “I scanned the drawing you did and submitted it" Jay went on. "Did I ask you to do that Jay?" "No, but the drawing is pretty good so I had to" Jay esteemed as her right. "No you didn’t have to" Miss Hope rejected. "J, you won" Jay carried on "I won an internship with Gary Black and Laura Pane?" Joy asked. "Yes J" Jay retorted happily "wow this is amazing I have to call Sarah..oh no my phone is almost out of battery, so I will do it in half an hour" Joy said. "Oh" Jay’s excitement settled "but she'll be at home, so I’ll call her on the landline". "Yeah do that" Jay became excited again. “Hello” Charlotte answered. “Hi Mrs Smith, is Sarah there?” "Oh sorry dear she just popped out, I’ll tell her to call you when she returns" Charlotte Smith gave her word. "No it’s okay Mrs Smith, thank you" the phone cut. "Can I use your phone?" Miss Hope asked. "Yeah" Jay agreed "Sarah, when you finish what you're doing, come round, I have good news" Joy told her. "Sure, you alright though?" Sarah wondered. "Yeah I am, see you soon" Miss Hope prepared her best friend.

After the next hour slipped away: "Sarah, come in quick, you gotta hear this" Joy pressurised her closest friend. "Go on then, I know your big mouth must be on fire by now" Sarah replied. “I won a design competition" Joy announced. “I didn't even know there was one" Miss Smith answered. “I didn't either, Jay submitted a doodle of mine which I didn’t ask her to do" Miss Hope made clear "and which she didn't inform me of" Tom’s sister charged Jay. "Sorry" Jay offered an apology, "mmhmm, it’s ok. I’m proud of you and I need to see this trophy drawing. But first what did you win?" Sarah inquired. “I won an internship with Black and Pane" Joy spilled out. "What?" Sam’s girlfriend couldn’t take in. “I know, I will never digest that" Mrs Hope’s daughter was overwhelmed by. "How could you?!" Sam’s girlfriend protested. "How could I what? I'm confused" Joy beseeched. "You know it has always been my dream to work under them and you took it from me" Kirk’s daughter amplified. "Why are you saying that? I told you it was Jay who sent it off" Joy emphasized. “Yes but you still get that opportunity which I’m missing because of the nursery" Miss Smith whined. "It is not my fault that you gave it up and switched to babies" Miss Hope made a point. "Yes it is your fault because you are getting this on a silver platter and I have no chance" Miss Smith distorted. “I didn't choose me as the winner" Miss Hope protected her intentions. "It doesn't matter. You get to do it instead of me. This is my passion and future so if I want to get anywhere I have to quit the placement" Sarah concluded. "You are being melodramatic" Joy labelled her. "No I’m not!" Sarah stormed out. "Sarah! Sarah!" A voice yelled out. "Leave me alone" Sarah commanded. "It's me Jay" Joy’s cousin said. "Leave me alone" Sarah repeated.

Mr Jones’ only child called Sarah as she was walking and she picked it, "hey babe, just wanna ask a quick question". "What?" Sarah sounded less than appreciative. "Okay a better question would be what is up with you?" Sam tried to find out. "I’m going to quit my placement" his girlfriend gave new information. "(laughs) That's funny I thought you said you are planning to quit your placement" Sam assumed he didn’t hear well. “I did" Sarah stated, "why?" Sam looked into. "So I can do what I longed to do to not allow anyone else to steal it" Miss Smith claimed. "Who are you talking about?" Sam was confused. "Joy stole my chance to work with two famous designers" Sarah amplified. "They rejected you and chose her?" He thought. "No, she won a competition and that was the prize" his girlfriend explained. "So then she didn’t steal it" the child of Mr Jones rephrased. "She did, you were right I should have just stuck to what I know instead of getting myself in this mess. I see myself in a big designing studio not with children" the girlfriend regarded. "So you don't want kids?" Sam evaluated. "That will be my life and not future" she differentiated. "This doesn't make sense" Sam supposed. "Yes it does you just aren't listening. I put my heart into this and got nothing and Joy didn't even try and got what belongs to me" Miss Smith summarised. "Just put your heart into the children" he recommended. "No, designing is my destiny and if I don't do it now it will be gone later. So I will quit tomorrow no matter what you say" she said. "Whatever..Do what you want" Sarah hung up the phone and shortly after she started to shed tears and prolonged her journey home.

When she finally reached home, her baby brother came and lifted his hands up to her. She walked past to run upstairs which made Carl cry. "Sarah why is Carl crying?" Mrs Smith required. “I don't know" the daughter went into her room and shut it.

The next day Miss Smith hurried out the door to pick the bus to her workplace to quit. Traffic delayed her a while but she was still determined to do what she felt was right.

At her arrival she ran up two flights of stairs and was about to knock when she remembered something Sam said to her and she moved back. Then her boss opened the door and screamed "Sarah what are you doing here, you're not supposed to be here till Monday, is everything okay?" the boss observed that she had been crying but the teen just rushed out of the nursery.

For the rest of that day and the next, Sarah decided to lock herself up in her room. The next day at church she was silent until they came home.

On the day that followed, Miss Smith was late for the nursery and had missed calls from the staff members. This was also the day her boyfriend was due to be back. On account of what happened the week before he was not as enthusiastic as he expected himself to be. So he paid for a cab to get home and unpacked himself. Sarah decided to express her feelings in prayer. Rather she heard God saying that she needed not to be jealous and forgive which made her feel very convicted.

When she stopped being selfish, she remembered that Sam would be back so she travelled to his house to amend things. "There’s something I wanna say to make everything right please" Sam saw her genuine smile and left the door open. "I’m sorry for my attitude towards you and I couldn't quit, because of you" she told him. "I should not be blamed" Sam misinterpreted. "No you said a career with children could be my calling. I realized I couldn't abandon them just like I wouldn't do to my children" Miss Smith simplified. "That's a relief, I see why you were upset but Joy didn't do anything wrong and definitely not on purpose" Sam empathized. "She's talked to you isn’t it?" Sarah assumed. "Yeah but you haven't been so you need to go and finish with her and apologize to your boss for not coming" Sam instructed her. "How did you know?" The cutest girlfriend in his eyes asked. "Firstly, because I know you so well, and it's 2pm on the first day of the week and you're here..it’s not rocket science" Sam gauged. "Smarty pants" she replied. "You have to go and resolve things with Joy because that is the only other relationship I feel responsible for" Sam supposed. "I need to help you unpack" Sarah alleged. "Done it already" Sam admitted "but I would have helped you" she knew. “I know but you weren't here so I did it alone. Going back to Joy is more important right now" Sam prioritised. "I still want to help you though" Sarah insisted. "Don't worry, you will help just tidy up. You can sleep in the spare room, spend the day here and go back home in the evening" Sam sorted. "How am I going to explain to my manager?" She asked. "Don't worry we will think of something" Sam ensured his girlfriend. “Thanks babe, that is a done deal, will call you around 7 when I have my stuff ready" she planned. "No problem" Sam easily accepted. “I really missed you boo" Sarah let him know, "me too" Sam and Sarah caressed each other and then she left.

Sarah gently crawled over the only wall that was not battered and started making things in the garden clash against each other. "So it was you that made me think a burglar was breaking and entering in?" Joy put Sarah on the spot. "Yeah so I could get you to talk to me" Sarah responded. "You were the one who was upset with me" Joy pinpointed. “I’m sure by the time I left you weren't liking me too much" Sarah guessed, "maybe a bit" Joy stated.

Chapter 31

Sam was made aware that Sarah's journey to his house had ended. He invited her in and was kissed by her. "Not that I didn’t enjoy it but what was it for?" Sarah kissed his cheek and smiled. "What were we talking about?" Sam temporarily lost track of thought. "Do you wanna ask questions or get started?" Sarah removed her coat and saw how the living room was arranged. "You didn’t tell me you were expecting guests" Sam’s temporary guest said. "I’m not" he affirmed. "So what is this for?" Sarah wondered. "For you, you are my guest" Sam explained. "Aww you didn’t need to do that, I’ve never done that for you" Sarah recounted "but I wanted to" Mrs Jones’ son insisted. "To make me feel bad that I’ve never made my place homey for you?" Miss Smith inquired. "That never even crossed my mind" Sam confirmed, "you mean it?" Sarah wanted confirmation. "Yeah honest" Sam declared, "you are so sweet.." Sarah spotted something. "Why did you stop?" Sam required. "Nothing" she moved closer to her favourite drink till she grabbed it. "It's mine!" She exclaimed. "Yes it is, I got it for you" he revealed. “I don't deserve this" Sarah felt unworthy, "you are my lady, why shouldn’t I do it for you?" He formed a rhetorical question. "Thank you baby" Sam went first to sit in the sofa and Sarah sat between his legs on the floor. He smiled at her and stroked her cheek "what?" Sarah looked at him. "Nothing" he glanced at her again and turned when she saw "Sam what?" "Nothing..cheers" he lifted a glass with juice "cheers" Sarah grinned.

8:05pm "Wow it feels like I never left" Sam shared, "you didn't, it was just a long dream" Sarah described. "More like a nightmare" Sam expressed. "Then you didn't scream loud enough" Miss Smith supposed. “I did on the inside, the little voice yelling I wanna go back to Sarah" Sam Jones communicated. "Then it has a twin because my little voice said the same thing" Miss Smith agreed. “I hear that, are you hungry?" The boyfriend questioned. "Yeah a little bit" Sam grabbed her hand to pull her up to go to the kitchen.

At the couple's return they discussed how Sarah would justify her voluntary day off and watched their favourite programmes.

"Right, it's getting to 1 so need to go and sleep" Jay’s friend verbalized. "Why now, you're gonna be here for the whole day" Sam forgot about what she had to do. "No I’m not, I have to go to the nursery" Sarah brought to his memory. "Oh yeah, but you start 11 so we can leave at 9" Sam arranged. "Don't worry I will go by myself because I wanna get there early so I go back in their good books" his girlfriend decided. “I don't mind taking you, so we will leave at 7" "so I need to sleep now to wake up for 5" she spoke. "Can't we watch the last one, wanna see how it ends please" Sam requested. "How long is left?" She required, "20 minutes, at most 30" Sam placed his hand on his girlfriend’s shoulder. "Oh alright" Sarah sat in the couch again and Sam put his arm around her.

(Me) "All finished, is Vincent happy now?" I hoped. "Almost, there's something I need you for" he kept me waiting. "Can't wait to hear this" I claimed. "I’m sorry if it doesn't fit but I bought you this" he took out a necklace which had diamond on the front. "It's perfect, I will gladly wait around for something else" I was now eager to stay, "nah that's it" my babe promised. "It's more than enough thank you" I pecked his soft cheek. "You're welcome, you can go now" he was pushing me away "goodnight honey. See you in the morning" Sam smirked.

(Writer) "Morning my love" Miss Sarah Smith remarked cheerfully "and morning to you, you got all your stuff?" Sam Jones implored. “I think so" she hoped silently. "Okay first we need to refill the car" Sam let her know. "That won't take too long will it?" Sarah worried. "Don't worry you will still be very early, you don't want it to break down and I don't want you to stand in the cold” Sam argued. "Aww maybe you do care about me more than computer games" Sarah slipped in. "Watch it" Sam opened her door and went to get in the driver seat and drove off.

Sam got out to pour diesel into his car until it reached the desired amount and Sarah took his card to pay. Sam sat back in his car and waited for Miss Smith to return his card then he left her alone. "Sam, where are you going?, It’s almost 8!" Sarah yelled after him.

A few minutes later he brought her a lamb snack wrap and a snack pack for her lunch seeing as she had no time to cook. "Aww thank you" she opened the bag and started to eat and gave him a bite. He sparked the engine again and left the station.

Mr Jones (jr) had to continuously go round to locate a parking space and then patiently waited for one to be freed. "Thanks baby, see you in the evening" Sarah thanked the guy she treasured. "Here’s £30 to get back home, enjoy it and remember how we rehearsed it" Sam advised. "Yeah I will, enjoy your day" Sarah said and ran to the entrance. Sam picked up Eric’s call and arranged a place to pick him up.

Over at Joy's house, the girls were playing all sorts of different games. As music was playing faintly, they talked and talked. Then they looked at their family photo album, teased each other and shared jokes.

Later on, Jay went to check her email account and a certain advert came up "oh these stupid pop ups" Jay whinged. "What is it for?" Joy beseeched. “I dunno, it's probably nothing" Jay underestimated. "Wait let me see something, get up" Joy scanned a page and went to another link and she screamed excitedly. "Joy one day I will actually put you in a hospital for me going to hospital, am sure many people will" Jay alleged. "Just keep quiet and let me explain” Joy ordered. “You don't need to..you're Joy that's it" Jay finalised. "Jay..this is not just a pop up, it's an advert for a designing company run by Clarissa Montana" Joy found out. “You mean the one who made those cute baby clothes?" Jay asked to know. "Yeah, she's one of the most famous designers, you know what I’m thinking?" Miss Hope asked. "Does anyone ever?" Jay phrased. "Ha-ha. I’m gonna recommend Sarah to her. She's looking for someone to shadow her desperately" Joy responded. "How do you know?" Jay replied. "It's there, I’m gonna send her an email and give hers" Joy decided. "That sounds cool, I will help with everything I know" Jay volunteered. “This might take a while so can you go put the chilli prawns in the microwave?" Joy requested. "Yeah this is gonna be great" Joy went to find a paper and pen.

After being confident that she wasn't going to be fired and the previous day had been swept under the carpet, she walked to the bus stop. Sarah realized it would be delayed for an extra 20 minutes so notified her boyfriend and walked to the nearest station.

It had reached the sixth hour after midday when she called Sam so that the door could be open. When she no longer appeared to be coming from outside, she told her boyfriend "I’m so hungry, so I better get started". "Started with what?" Sam enquired. "When the connection was restored, I found a recipe for something called squid roasted rice and prawn salad on the side" Sarah disclosed. "Mmm that almost sounds as good as yours" Sam fed back, "it is" she was sure about. "You said you saw it on the net" Sam reinforced, "well it will be, when I embellish it, give me a hand please..in the kitchen" she expected of him. "Ha-ha where else" Sarah took out the necessary dishes and gathered the ingredients and walked through the recipe with her assistant.

An hour and a half later they set the meals on the table and blessed it together. "This is so good, is that all we made?" Sam asked. "Why do you keep getting ahead of yourself man?" Sarah gave an answer. "I’m not, just so I can have some on another day" Sam wondered. "Already taken care of.. Taking some home so when you come round again we can eat it" Sarah pre-arranged. "So if I drop you and stay a while is that counted as coming round?" Sam was cheeky. "Not by my definition" Sarah took her third bite and grinned.

The young adults tidied up in the kitchen while Sarah told Sam how their private rehearsal worked out. The couple were going to continue their evening with no distractions. As they were sitting close together Sarah found an email which had her gasping for air. "Sam, a famous designer emailed me, look" Sam read what shocked her "what that is crazy, but where did it come from?" Sam entreated. "That's what I gotta know. She's designed all these baby outfits and she goes to every country and holds presentations for the 5 top companies that month. Whoever bids the highest gets the stock" Sarah threw light on for Sam. "Sounds like a remarkable lady, no wonder she is looking for you" Sam wanted her to smile. "That would be sweet if I wasn’t so curious about who recommended me. Unless you are trying to be shady and it's you" Sam was considered a suspect. "This is just as new to me as it is to you" he avowed. "Then who?" Sarah asked. “I don't know babe" Sam watched her navigate around the site and she repeatedly looked at the email. For the rest of the night they just hung out as normal and when it was late she was taken home.

Chapter 32

The next morning could not be any sunnier and was the beginning of a day where a secret would be uncovered. Miss Smith awoke when Mr Smith had just left the house. She prepared herself to go for her placement the second time that week. She only aimed to leave slightly earlier than the agreed time.

A few roads down from the Smith household, Joy Hope was just finishing off her quiet time before she started the day. After getting the kitchen up to speed with her mum's standards she made cereal and sat down in front of the TV. She didn't laugh as much as she normally did as Max overtook her concentration. So instead she went to take out the forms that were required of her to sign for the shadowing of the two designers. After, she placed them in the provided envelope and posted it.

4:30- Sarah had just ended a normal day at her placement and was looking forward to being paid the following week. She recognised a missed call from Clarissa Montana and went to a quiet place where she could return her call. They were able to fully introduce themselves and Sarah was informed of her job description. All the things she had been dreaming about had been rolled into one. But she had to cut it short when it was revealed that Joy had put her up for the internship. "Wow Miss Montana that sounds fantastic. You can count on me to be the best assistant and we will enjoy working together. However right now I need to take care of something" Miss Smith spoke. “I guess it is to do with Joy, because when you recommend someone you are only required a thousand words but she filled two boxes" Miss Montana guessed. "(laughs) Yeah she is my best friend so would it be ok if I call you tomorrow and we continue?" Sarah made a humble request. "Don't worry I will email any extras. I’m glad we got to talk and will contact you next week" the professional said. "Thank you. Bye" Sarah made her way to Joy's house.

"Hey Sarah, didn't expect you, hope nothing's wrong" Joy desired. "Actually I have a problem and I need your advice" Sarah creatively phrased. "Wow, come in and we'll talk" Joy welcomed her in. "It's a big problem" Miss Smith exaggerated. "Don't worry we got lots of food" Joy ensured. "It's nothing like that..I got the best and greatest friend in the whole universe. She did the most amazingly thoughtful thing for me" Sarah started. "What was it?" Joy asked. "She recommended me to a designing company and because of her I’m gonna get an internship" Sarah revealed. "Whoa! I gotta have words with this girl, who does she think she is?" Joy played a role. "It's you joy" Joy’s best friend confronted her. "Oh I knew that..wait how did you find out?" Miss Hope was interested to know. "From Clarissa, you are the most extraordinary friend I could have ever prayed for. I appreciate you and everything you have ever done for me. I wouldn't change you for clones of Sam. I love you girl" Miss Smith expressed. "Aww love you too. It's nothing because you so deserve it and I can't imagine my life without you" Joy replied. “I can and it would be terrible. You will always be a VIP to me" Sam’s favourite person stated. "Ditto" Joy squeezed Sarah. "That helped me out loads but I have to do something for you to show my appreciation" Carl’s sister replied. "No you don't. Forget about it, the world needs you and your God-given talent" Joy meant. "All because of you that the world will see it, no matter what you say I will come up with something. You got anymore of those vanilla and almond milkshakes please?" Sam’s girlfriend wanted to know. "Yeah we got the mix but it's in the freezer, you not in a hurry are you?" Joy checked. "Nope" Sarah switched the TV on. "Sarah wait, New York: Break Out is next" Jay’s cousin announced. "You really like that show don't you?" Sarah inquired. “It's the best" Joy commented. “I don't get it and it sounds boring" Sarah negatively reacted to. "Just the opposite, can we watch it please?" Joy asked for permission. "Alright" Sarah gave the remote back and they waited for the show to start.

1 hour 10 minutes later. (Me) "Alright baby girl, I am so tired I need to go and rest" I let her know. "Yeah mum should be here soon, so have to get the place sorted out" we did our secret handshake and I left to go home.

(Writer) "Welcome home mum" Joy voiced out. "Hi darling, mm the house smells nice, how was your day?" Tom Hope’s wife asked. "Great, Sarah found out it was me that connected her to that designer" Joy spilled the beans. "It was gonna come out sooner than later" Joy’s mum supposed. "What's for dinner?" Mrs Hope’s daughter enquired as she hung her coat and bag. "I’m thinking of doing lamb and salad" Mrs Hope shared as Jay came down. "That sounds so boring" Joy disapproved. "You won't say that when you taste it" Mrs Hope was sure about. "We shall see" Jay contributed. "Yes and you're going to watch come on" Mrs Hope took the girls along.

6:15pm The Hope family ate dinner together then watched the news which was disturbed by Max calling Joy. She removed herself from the family room.

2 hours later

This had been the longest conversation they had since she had forgiven him. At one point, Max began to tell Joy his latest discovery. “I made some choices to see different results and after seeing you being so committed to Christianity, so happy, kind and it is your faith that caused it, I decided that I wanna come to your church" Max reported. "That's great, you are welcome any time. It starts from 9-12 at Avery dance hall" Joy told him the location. "Can I join you on Sunday?" Max enquired. “(laughs) Yeah sure if you get here by 8:25" Joy conditioned. "That can be done. I gotta go now but will talk to you in a bit" Max told her. "Max wait.." Joy initially pleaded. "Yeah" Max held on "err..nah nothing bye" Joy ended the call. "Jay!" Joy yelled, "what is it?" Jay responded. “I want to tell Max I like him" Joy briefed her cousin, "finally the rock got sense in to you" Jay described. "What rock?" Joy didn’t understand. "Well a rock must have hit you for you to have made a clear decision" Jay rephrased. "You think it’s a good idea?" Joy sought for a stronger argument. "Yes he is the right one for you because he is still willing to keep you in his life after all this" Jay justified. "I’m scared of getting hurt" Joy came back with. "So is every girl but you need to take a risk, you know he likes you and has learnt his lesson" Jay stood up for Max. “I just can't deal with this right now" Joy sounded sad. "You know what to do" Jay left her cousin’s room. Joy thought to herself for a second and prayed to God for wisdom and after a certain peace was released in heart she smiled. She again remembered the picture she drew, called Max and asked to meet her at a coffee shop.

"I decided I'm going to tell him" Joy made Jay know her mind. "Yay, so you will have a day to plan how you will go about it" Jay predicted. "No only an hour, I’m going to meet him" Joy said. "But mum won't let you" Jay said. "I got that covered..Mum, as today is Wednesday there is a discount for carrot cake and lemon mousse with mint" Joy revealed. "Wow go and get it but don't keep too long" Mrs Hope said. "Thanks mum" Joy replied "that performance was so believable" Jay commended her cousin. "What do you mean? They do have a sale and they will close by 9:30pm so I better make my way" Joy spoke, "good luck J" Jay wished her. "Thanks" Joy smiled as she had the courage to get out of the house.

At the coffee shop."Hi Joy, what can I get you?" The boss requested of Joy. "Carrot cake and mint lemon mousse" Joy supposed. "Coming up but I better keep it here presuming you are not leaving straight away" the boss could tell. "What gave it away?" Joy didn’t want to make it obvious. "How you are looking and you keep facing the door, who is he?" Joy was quizzed. "Max, I'm here to tell him what I really feel about him" Joy answered. "Wow a big step, you sure about it, there is no going back, in your heels you won't get far" the boss teased Joy. "Shut up" Joy commanded. "I’m serious, you look great and if he rejects you, I’m available" the boss tried to be charming, "will you get out of here he is coming" Joy went back to the table.

8:45pm "Max, you are the only guy that I've liked but you are also the only one I've been hurt by. Yet I want you to be the only one because I've found it hard to let you go. I just really need your assurance that I can trust you" Joy told him. "I'm ready to win your trust again. I love you" Max delicately joined his lips with Joy's and the owner could not help but give them audience.

Chapter 33

A week later, Joy was expecting her new boyfriend to visit her at home. Knowing it was past the agreed time, she started thinking he had forgotten the time they arranged to meet. She called him but saw it was engaged because he was trying to get hold of her. "Hey J, I will be there in ten minutes" Max gave her notice. "Oh okay I thought you got lost or something" Joy sounded relieved. "(laughs) No just thought I will try a different route" Max responded. "Okay, see you when you have reached your destination on the left" they both laughed and Joy cut the call.

Twenty minutes from then Max called Joy, "Joy, I'm at the door". "Aww flowers for me!" Joy thought. "Actually I was just coming to say hi, drop these off for my mum and come back" Max broke the news. "Oh" Joy believed. "Just kidding" Joy received the delivery, "they smell beautiful, thank you" Miss Hope showed gratitude. "You're welcome" Max shut the door. "Can I get you something to drink?" Joy used her hosting skills. "I'll start with a glass of water then I'll be getting you hot on your feet" Joy’s boyfriend directed. "Hate to break it to you, there is a 2 drink limit" Joy teased him, "since when?" Max queried. "About two minutes ago" she responded "stop playing" Max refused. "I won't because you at least can get me one before you send me on your maze of satisfaction" Joy told him. "I didn't say you can't have a glass" Max came back with. "True, I’ll have a glass of...guava" Joy teased Max as it was his favourite drink. "On second thought I'll join you" he wanted. "Good but I didn’t ask" Miss Hope did not let him off easily. "Please" Joy filled his glass to the top and some spilled "oops you might wanna wipe that" she advised. "Nah I’ll leave it” Max disputed "hmm where's my phone?" Joy made him appear as a victim. "Over there" Max naively informed his girlfriend. "Let me show you how my phone can quickly take a picture and upload it on any social platform" Joy continued to toy with him. "On second thought" he ran to the kitchen and Joy giggled till he sat back down. "Hope you washed your hands before you put it around me" Joy had renounced her teasing. "Girl, you better stop" Joy pulled his arm to her shoulder and turned on the TV so they could catch up on their favourite programme.

After the new couple checked out the credits for New York: BREAK OUT!! Joy opened a message from Sarah which read ‘are you on your way?’ Then Joy tapped in ‘we will be’ and pressed send. "Max, we're going to Sarah's house now" Joy gave an impromptu warning. "Thought we were gonna hang out" Joy's new beau phrased assumingly. "Yeah we are, with Sam and Sarah" Joy wanted to spend time with her boyfriend and best friends. "I'm good" Max passed. "Is there a problem?" She faced Max. "I haven't seen Sam for ages and it's gonna be awkward being in the same room" Max apprehended. "You'll be fine and we're gonna be there, unless you have something against him" she required. "No" Max didn’t elaborate "then let's go. It will give you a chance to catch up and get to know more about each other yeah" Joy showed support. "Okay" he accepted, "since you are so health conscious, do you want a cereal bar?" Joy offered. "I didn't say anything about being health conscious, and nah I'm alright" Max passed again. Joy grabbed one for herself and locked the kitchen door. As they were headed for the door, she broke off some and fed it to Max. "Not bad" Max confessed, "well I already know I have great taste" Joy smirked at Max. "You know that's right" he pecked her cheek and the door was shut behind them.

"Hey J" Sarah hugged her best friend. "Max long time..so Joy you decided to pick up that call" Sarah claimed. "Someone's calling you, you better pick up" he misunderstood their language. "Don't worry, why don't you go and say hi to Sam" he left the girls alone. "So, you're ready to trust him?" Sarah asked "I'm going to try" she said. "Let's pray it goes well" Sarah declared "all the time" Joy agreed with her best friend. Sarah followed Joy to her living room and the girls broke the awkward silence between the guys. They talked and shared banter about past events.

The girls gave their boyfriends a chance to talk by going to Sarah's room. At first they were at a loss of what to do then they started a flat conversation. Before they knew it, they were talking about boy's interests and re-established common ground.

It was an hour after that when the girls heard laughing and were glad that it was their cue to go down again. "Hey guys" Sam could not control himself but Max spoke to Joy "you said you were gonna be here" "sorry Sarah had to show me something" Joy answered. "Yeah, whatever" Max denied, "well at least we got what we wanted, you boys are talking like old times" Joy replied. "I knew it would work, j" she high-fived miss Hope. The four friends hung out and talked again while sharing light refreshments. The teens were careful not to fill their stomachs to eat their parent's cooking.

They rounded up after the following half an hour and the three who did not live there wore their coats and walked to the door. "Sarah, we didn't have your rice" Sam frowned "oh sorry babe. Next time (just for us)" Sarah whispered and kissed his cheek, hugged Joy and pumped Max's fist.

The next day the whole gang went to Church including the new addition. A powerful sermon was given on faithfulness. Max received a membership package including a prayer topic book and one on the beliefs of the church. While the Smith family had a normal afternoon together, the Hope and Jones family fellowshipped at Joy's house.

Monday evening had arrived in Summerfield and Sam and Sarah had both come to the phone. "Hey sj" "hi ssss" "when did I turn from your girlfriend to a snake?" Sam was made to explain. "Since your parents named you" Sam issued his answer. "Maybe you should tell them that" Sarah dared her boyfriend. "I'd rather not" Natasha Jones’ son alleged. "Then take it back" Joy’s best friend commanded, "no because it's your name or you prefer sksss?" Sarah laughs. "Or maybe socks" he gave an alternative "that's not right" she passed on, "unless I say so or sds" Sam carried on. "Now this is beyond sad you have to stop" Sam laughed "or what?" He asked. "I will hang up" Sarah told him, "do it then" Sarah ended the call and Sam called back. "You got guts kid" he stated. "You forced me and I'm not a kid, I am a woman" Sarah said. "Yes my woman" Sarah giggled. "How has your day been?" She asked. "Laid back to be honest, can't wait to go back to work" Joy’s second oldest friend commented. "Hmm and your dad, I haven’t heard from him" Sarah wondered. "Yeah he's been busy but will send your regards" Sam promised. "Thank you boo" Sarah replied.

Two minutes later, "I'm hungry" Sarah expressed. "Go and eat then" Sam allowed "no I'll wait for dinner" Sarah kept her patience. "Well I'm going to eat something" asserted Sam "okay me too" Sarah made herself say. "Are you really?" Sam checked "okay I'm not" she changed her mind. "You can talk just put you on loudspeaker" Sam let her know. “It's nice you were able to patch things up with Max" Sarah sounded louder. "Yeah he reminded me how cool he is" he was grateful for her and Joy’s suggestion. "I think it will be great if you arrange something fun for all of us to do since you owe us" Sarah alleged. "Yeah I know" Sam did not question "I wanna do something for Joy as well maybe we can go to a restaurant" Sarah suggested. "Good idea so I'll find something to do and you look for a restaurant" he crunches his snack. "Always eating crisps" Sarah claimed, "as a matter of fact I'm eating the crisp sandwiches we had on our first date" Sam informed her. "Wow, hope you still remember 10 years from now" Sarah made a remark "why won't I?" Sam inquired. "People tend to forget those parts because it’s in the past" Sarah answered. "Very clever" he complimented her, "what?" Sarah asked to know "The parts and past, trying to rhyme" Sarah laughed. "Have you found a restaurant yet?" Sam wondered. "Yeah, just now Imperial's D' PARADE" Sarah alerted her boyfriend "that sounds out there, how much?" Sam inquired. "£10 per person" Miss Smith affirmed, "hmm and the food looks good?" Sam desired more information. "Yeah it's Malaysian and Thai so guess so..how many do I book for?" Sarah questioned. "Can I invite a guy called Frederick?" Sam failed to answer her question directly. "That's not a problem, I'm going to invite Carla, a girl from our gg club and Tina" Sarah stated plainly. "That's not fair, how do you get 2 and me just 1?" Sarah’s boyfriend let out a whinge. "You asked for it, I just said two" Sarah highlighted, "out of order" Sam moaned. "Okay would you like to invite someone else?" Sarah wanted to appease him. "No" Sam stated "case closed, that will be 9..so you invite the guys and I will invite the girls" Miss Smith assigned, "alright" Sam accepted his responsibility. The couple continued to keep each other company.

The countdown for the best day that the team would experience began from the night to the morning. Everything had been booked and paid for over the phone. Wardrobes were being ransacked for the most suitable clothes for both parts. Sarah and Jay were in Joy's room calming her nerves about her appearance for the restaurant i.e. Her clothes as they were fully prepared. When they found the perfect attire the accessory drawer was raided.

Over at Sam’s house, the guys were on a conference call with each other. "Guys so the bus will be here at 10. Get here by 9:45 so when the girls are here we go" Sam alerted. "Why you sounding so formal, they're our girls" Max supposed. "No Tina and some chick called Carla are joining too" Sam added. "Oh well my girl will need a fan by her as I will be sharp" Max predicted. "Well Sarah won't even be able to stand" Sam threw in. "I'm staying out of your guys' competition, I always dress to impress" Eric chose to do. "True, but we know our girls will out do us" Sam responded. The conversation very slowly moved away from the girls, while the girls were finishing off. Sarah left to prepare the last arrangements for the day.

(Me) Saturday morning. Today is bright and sunny and we were on schedule for the bus to arrive at 10. All the lads, except for Frederick who couldn't make it, had their backpacks. The ladies held their bags and stayed with their guys while Tina and Carla made use of the time together till they had to board the bus.

(Writer) All the youths enjoyed themselves roller-skating. They all dressed up at their various homes and convened at the same meeting place.

At 6:45 pm they filled two cabs and were driven to the suggested restaurant by Miss Smith.

7:20pm- "J, you look too hot" Sarah admired her best pal's outfit. "Yes she does, I think I need a drink" Max winked at Joy and she blushed.

The friends filled their plates with varieties of choices and they sat and communicated happily and gave attention to their partners. The girls also took individual pictures with each other without their guy friends and they ordered drinks as much as they pleased. Everyone was given their floor to talk at different times. They all were being entertained with music in the background and videos here and there. "It feels just like our birthday, you guys are mad" Jay gave early feedback. They continued to have fun.

Near the end of the night approached and a special drink was brought by the waiter, followed by Sarah. The waiter poured the content of the bottle into all the glasses.

"Everybody, I have to make a toast to the most amazing bestie Joy, who because of her I'm getting an internship with Clarissa Montana" they all roared with cheer. "I couldn't think of anyone better to call my bestie, here’s to Joy!" Sarah brought her speech to a close "JOY!!!" Joy's friends hollered. "Also here's to the best mate a guy could ask for. You’ve always been there and you are the reason Sarah and I are still going strong" Sam chimed in. "Cheers to the greatest cousin!!" Jay proclaimed. "Cheers!!" They clinked glasses and sipped. Joy swept tears from her face and smiled.

A room had been rented out to take pictures which had the best lighting. The girls took some with the guys and after the couples then the school students and externals.

When it became 10:30pm, a bigger cab picked all the young adults in one go. "Tonight was so amazing, thank you guys" Joy uttered "it wasn't us" Max spoilt the surprise. "I should have known surprises begin with Sarah" Sarah smiled and said" “hands down best night ever!!” "here here!" The lads roared and the driver took them home.

Chapter 34

The teens were still recovering from their fun day 2 days prior. No one wanted the morning to rush as they all enjoyed it more than anything. At this point all the relationships were firm and the friendships were unbreakable. Everything seemed smooth up until Sarah was awoken by her baby brother crying. She left her room to find out what the problem was. Mrs Smith was completely clueless and patiently tried to calmly get him to sleep which took over half an hour. It was soon quiet and Sarah went back to sleep.

Further down in the morning, Sarah stretched and got up from her bed when she heard the youngest of the Smiths crying and went to investigate. "Mum what is making Carl cry?" "I don't know can you warm up some of his food maybe he is hungry" Sarah left the room.

10 minutes after she returned with a bowl of porridge and a spoon. Mrs Smith sat him up to feed him but after a few feeds he refused the porridge. Thus, she rocked him and Sarah left the mum and son to be alone.

(Me) I messaged Sam 'morning, just woke up and Carl has been crying' 'what is wrong with him?' Sam sent a response to her message. 'I dunno mum is trying to figure it out' I replied. 'I'm sure he will be okay' Sam assured me. 'Yeah where are we reading today?' I sent back. 'Thessalonians' we turned to the right page and discussed it together through texting then prayed before other things.

After I finished texting my boyfriend I heard silence and found out Carl was asleep and I tried not to disturb him.

(Writer) Later on Carl opened his eyes and was given water to drink and after he started to become clingy.

Some hours later his mother tightly wrapped him up. An hour before Mr Smith had to lock up his office, Charlotte called his work phone, “hi darling hope you're not too busy”. "Nope I am just rounding off, have you been crying?" Kirk studied her voice. "Not yet. I think Carl is ill because when he woke up he was cold and now he is boiling hot" Charlotte shared with her husband. "I hear him coughing too, oh my precious little boy and my enamouring strong wife. Book him an appointment and I will book a day off, but he will be well" Carl’s dad encouraged his wife. "I know he will but he just continues to cry while I try to calm him" the wife responded. "I will be home soon and take over but call them because the GP will close soon" Kirk retold her. "Okay darling see you soon" she hung up and dialled the surgery number.

The next day, the appointment for Carl was set for the middle of the afternoon. Mrs Smith was hesitant to shut her eyes again so called her oldest pal, Mrs Hope. “Heather, I'm going to an appointment today and I'm feeling anxious" "Charlotte, I was thinking about you yesterday and what made you do that?" Joy’s mum requested. "It's for Carl, he's not been sleeping properly at all, coughing then feeling hot and I just can't figure out what is causing it" Carl’s mother gave her friend information. "Oh no, maybe it's a good idea you go to check it out, sorry Lottay" Joy’s mum agreed. "My prince is so poorly and has been crying so hard, I just want to cuddle him till he is all better" Charlotte remarked. "Your hugs always made me feel good, do you want me to come along?" Mrs Hope enquired. "No it's okay Kirk didn't go to work so we will take him" Charlotte appreciated the offer. "Okay, I'll call you in the evening, stay strong dear and I'm praying for him" Joy’s mum wished. "Thank you Heather, bye" Charlotte cuddled her baby as she put him in his bed and held his hand from the ground.

At the hospital: "Mr and Mrs Smith, the doctor will see you now" the receptionist informed the parents. Charlotte took the lead to the room and Kirk followed carrying the patient.

In as much words as possible the parents explained everything to the doctor which the doctor was familiar with. He asked to check Carl but as soon as he was taken from his dad he cried and brought his arms out to his mum. He would not stay still and Charlotte struggled to be strong. "Don't be discouraged, this is a common case. It is not serious, all he needs is good sleep so give him this medicine then water. Turn him on his back and slowly stroke his back. Do that three times a day and he will be back to his jumpy self in no time" their doctor prescribed. "If that fails?" Kirk wanted a backup. "It won't and at night wipe him with cold water and cover him well and just wait. It will be a good marriage exercise for you to take it in turns and work together" the doctor hinted. "Thank you doctor" the parents said. "You are welcome, take care" the family doctor wished them well.

The two parents of three walked upstairs and heard their oldest sobbing. Charlotte handed Carl over to her husband to take him to bed and stood outside her daughter's door. "I..just..hate hearing him cry every night (sobs)” Sarah sadly shared with her boyfriend. “Aww honey" Sam showed compassion (knock) "hold on..come in" she gave attention to the visitor. "Kims, are you okay?" Charlotte implored. "I'll let you ladies talk. Text me when you're done and will call you back. Don't worry he's gonna be alright, love you" Sam cut the line. "Kims, what's wrong" Mrs Smith joined her on the bed. "It just upsets me that Carl is having a hard time sleeping and I can't see his smile because he's ill" Charlotte’s only daughter uncovered what she was crying about. "Sarah I feel exactly the same way but we must not fear and believe that God has it in control. We rather have to pray as it says in 1 Peter 5:7 cast all your cares upon Him so let’s pray" they joined hands. "Heavenly Father you know what has taken place from yesterday. Your son is feeling weak and comfortless, we ask that you please heal him and let him feel free and strong. We know that you are good and cast no evil on your children so we ask you to make him healthy and restore him. You are a prayer answering God and we put our trust in no one but you. Please hear our prayer in Jesus name" Mrs Smith spoke. "Amen" Sarah tried to stop sobbing. "Don't worry he will be fine" Mrs Smith hugged her daughter and left the room. Instead of calling Sam, Sarah went to sleep and Sam texted her in the next hour.

After several days of taking' the doctors orders for their son, his fever went down dramatically and the coughing ceased. Mrs Smith kept Carl warm, gave him warm water to drink, cuddled and kissed her child and he slept soundly.

The next morning Charlotte called her partner at work to tell him the good news. "Sweetheart Carl tried to say better" Charlotte boasted of, "oh wonderful I'm so happy my baby boy is bouncing. Lets thank God. Heavenly Father we thank you for healing our son. We are so grateful for this miracle and we love you Lord in Jesus' name Amen" Kirk prayed with thankfulness. “Amen, I’m so relieved that my baby is strong but what's more is I can't wait for us to have a good sleep" Charlotte remarked. "(chuckles) I know you need it so I’ll see you in the evening" Kirk replied. "No tomorrow morning" Kirk laughed again, "okay bye darling" Mrs Smith played with her baby and he smiled. After the miserable and sleepless nights when Carl was not well, Charlotte was able to mentally recover. Both baby and mother prepared to sleep from that day to the next undisturbed.

Chapter 35

It somewhat quickly transformed into the next week and it was the first day for Joy and Sarah at their internships. Sam was also going back to work after the completion of a reshuffling process. To Sam’s misfortune he was expected to be at work 1 hour prior to his girlfriend and close friend having to set off. So they saw him off at Summerfield Station and Sarah went back to Joy’s house to resume getting ready.

The girls saw each other off a while after, as Sarah had to walk in the opposite direction.

Sarah arrived at her internship 30 minutes earlier than Joy. No time was delayed and they started their day. Both girls and Sam were immediately given their daily and monthly schedules and got on with what needed to be done.

Miss Smith and Miss Hope tried to stay in touch during the day but work tied them down. However they managed to arrange a conference call when everyone was home.

Sarah waited for the time Joy said she will be at home and called her, “hey Lala”, “hey sugar puff” Sarah was addressed. ”Hi” Sarah sang “hiii” Joy reinforced. “How was your first day?” Miss Smith communicated. “Great, really upbeat. So many benefits, so many responsibilities, so few words and so much to tell you..hold on Sarah” Joy left her phone to talk to her mum when her name was called.

Minutes ensuing then, “sorry Sarah I have to keep you in suspense. Mum said we’re going out for dinner and if we don’t leave now we wont be seated for 2 hours. We will catch up tomorrow evening where I can give you two loads” Joy made a deal. “I’ll hold you to it and eat for me” Sarah alleged. “I can’t promise, there might not be anything left to give you” Joy talked back. “Not, if you sit around talking, go” Sarah shoved her. “Bye” Joy went off the phone to get ready.

Sam called his girlfriend and she picked up. “Hey beauty I’m trying to set up the conference call but it’s not going through” Sam told her. “Joy can’t be on call because they’re going out for dinner, but you still have me” Sarah presented the silver lining. “Good, how was your day?” Sam took Joy out of the equation. “It was fabulous, we first met and measured babies then we moved on to toddlers. Obviously they couldn’t stay still so we played two games with them. Firstly, stuck in the mud then traffic lights and we took down the measurements in between” Sarah expressed. “Aww what you could have also done is mix them together ”Sam recommended. “How do you mean?” Sarah asked for clarification. “With the traffic lights, you can chase them and when it’s red they have to stay stuck until you measure them” Sam explained. “Aww that’s cute, what an amazing idea” Sarah admired his intelligence. “Am glad you think so, my cookie” he acknowledged her admiration. “A cookie is nothing without her cream. You are so cute, I’m now kinda happy Joy had to go to dinner but don’t tell her that came from me. You know she will be here in a second to beat you” Sarah claimed. “I do know and me too” he couldn’t oppose. “So how was your day?” His girlfriend desired to know his perspective of the day. “Since it was reshuffling, there was a lot of moving of boxes and equipment. It was so busy and not in the least bit exciting as yours” Sam did not identify any sort of comparison. “Come on, you didn’t like it too much at first but you became really adept at it. Now you are in a high position. It’s just because it’s a new environment that’s all” the young female reduced it to. “You’re right, hopefully I will soon catch up with it, get used to it and won’t let it be boring” the male with no siblings deduced. “That’s it and if one day you really need a break, you can come work with us. They’d all love to see you” she completed her speech. “I might have to take you up on that you know” he tried to visualise. “Actually I think it’s best you keep at it because it is a good job but you are welcome to pop in for a visit” Sarah added. “On second thought, I will pass because I wouldn’t dream of spoiling the surprise of hearing you being so excited to tell me what you did in the day. It makes my heart hop” Sam let her know. “Yeah I know what you mean but yes I will keep my mouth shut till I come home at the end of the day” she gave Sam her word. “Noted. Speaking of which we need to get some rest. You got more busy days ahead of you, sweet dreams Miss Smith” Sam drew the call to a close. “Goodnight Mr Jones” Sarah turned her phone back to its home page.

Chapter 36

(Me) It has been 6 months since I was hired by Miss Clarissa Montana. I am at our office doing a list of things given to me by her. Every time I finished one task, she called me in to have a chat then I went back and ticked off the previous thing and went on to the next.

1pm- “Sarah, can you come to the portal please, so we can discuss something important?” Miss Montana called me on video chat to ask. I went to her office and sat down opposite her. “My gorgeous assistant, Sarah Kim Smith, I am so happy and impressed with every piece of work you have produced and your suggestions. You have completely exceeded my expectations of anyone who has ever been an intern for me but I have to let you go” Miss Montana paused. “ Let me go where?” I questioned out of so much confusion and my heart was racing. “I have to let you go out of this office and internship” Miss Montana declared. “Oh no, please if it’s to do with occasionally calling you Miss Clarissa, I’ll stop. If my designs are too polished, I’ll make them scruffy. I can even do it now” I took out paper and a pencil to draw a scruffy picture. It came out the opposite way. I took another paper, “no, no Sarah stop being silly. I’m not sacking you, I’m promoting you” interesting news was reported to me. “What?!! I proclaimed. “I’m very proud of your enviable hard work and earnestness. You are very attentive, on the ball, smart, creative and fashionable. You take advice, criticism and use initiative. I’m overjoyed I sent that ad out and Joy referred you. I have to apologisre because I should have made you go 2 months ago but I have just enjoyed working with you. Although, I know it’s not fair on you because you want to advance in your professional career. I will really miss your high-spirited attitude. Anyway as you know this is only the first station of my factory. You have measured the pieces of material. You know the different ages we produce more clothes for and why. You have made individual designs and put them together and other things. Now you will work in my fashion team where you will make the clothes. There will be meetings and models will come to the office with the outfits and you will analyse them. You and the whole team will advertise to your family and the public” Miss Montana stopped. “Wow that is a heavy load” I commented. “You will make it, don’t worry and you will be in a team. I’m taking you to Hampton, on the border of Summerfield as it’s their first assessment meeting in 2 months. However, I have errands to run so I will not be able to bring you back. I will pay for your cab fare to my cab driver and he will bring you back. Before we set off do you need to eat something?” Miss Montana asked. “No I’m okay, thank you” I passed. “Right, let’s go” we left and went to the office I was being transferred to.

Chapter 37

(Writer) Four months from when Miss Smith was pushed to the next level of her career, Sarah was preparing a bag that she could take to Littlewoods in the East of England. She was excited about 2 tops and a dress she bought the day before. However, she knew she wouldn’t be able to wear them till the end of spring the following year. She had just found out that one of the tops were the wrong size. Thus she was only left with the top she bought more because of the sale reduction. This made her forget that her phone was off as it needed to be charged, while Joy and Sam were trying to get to her.

After packing and having her late afternoon nap she put her phone on charge. There was a knock on her door, “come in!” She welcomed the visitor. “Sarah, can we play hungry hippos now?” Carl placed the box on his sister’s bed. She pat her bed for him to sit down. “I’m gonna beat you this time” Sarah made a comment. “No, I’m gonna beat you” she set up the board.

Miss Smith began to feel much better after bonding with her little brother. “Well done sis and I didn’t just let you win” Carl handled his defeat well. “Carl come here” Miss Smith hugged him. “I will miss you Carl” he accepted the hug. “It’s only 3 days Sarah, have a fun trip” Carl left the room and Sarah smiling.

She turned her phone on and rang Joy back, “hi Joy, you alright?” “Yeah, why didn’t you tell me when you left?” Joy presumed. “I haven’t though” Sarah told her. “So why haven’t I heard from you all day missy?” Joy wondered. “Sorry J, I forgot that I needed to charge my phone after I packed then I had my nap” Sarah explained. “Oh, well hurry up and get ready. I need to see you before Sam takes you out and takes you to the station in the morning” Joy said. “Sam knows he isn’t taking me. One of the girls will come at 7 tomorrow and we will leave the car to go on a coach” Sarah informed Joy. “Even more reason to rush you, meet me at my junction in 20 minutes” Joy hung up. Sarah called Sam, “hi honey buzz”. “Hiya beauty bun” the boyfriend responded. “I hope you’re good, sorry I missed your call. I had my nap and had to charge my phone” the girlfriend replied. “I’m good beauty bun, I hope you still have time to see me” Sam remarked. “Yeah, I was calling to talk about that. I’m going to meet Joy at her junction so we can meet there at 7:30, okay?” Sarah wanted to check. “Okay babe see you then” Sam put the call off.

5:30pm Joy greeted Sarah “hey Sarah what should we do?” Joy asked. “I don’t know. What do you think we should do?” Sarah threw the question back. “You tell me” Miss Hope wanted an answer. “Whatever you want” Miss Smith passed the buck. “Ok, let’s do our nails and hit that dessert place” Joy sorted out. “Let’s go” they went to carry out Joy’s plan.

Just a little before Sam and Sarah’s agreed time to meet, the girls were chatting as they waited. When Sam joined them, he acknowledged them, “hey girls”, “she’s all yours Sam” Joy stated. “Wow, you’re trying to run from me huh” Sam made a joke. “Time is of the essence, we’ll hang out tomorrow” Joy moved from where the couple stood. Then they travelled to the place they decided on.

When the couple were sitting comfortably in the cocktail shack, Sam looked at Miss Smith “you look beautiful” he said and stroked Sarah’s cheek. “Nah I wish I had put in more effort” Sarah took to be an overstatement. “You are beautiful just as you are. What you are wearing is just an accessory. Are you ready for us to order our drinks?” Sam wanted to know. “Yeah but I want to watch the waterfall so you order for me” she was mesmerised. “Rianne!” Sam called the waitress. “What can I get you?” Rianne got her pen ready. “For the lady, the papaya, mango and coconut and I will have the elderflower, grape and grapefruit” Sam ordered. He then put his arm around her and she briskly smiled and continued to be taken in by the waterfall. “I wonder what the other fountain is for” Sarah stated. “Probably the same and just broken” Sam shared his opinion. “Hmm, can I taste your drink?” Sarah turned to her boyfriend. “Yes Kimmy” he dropped in and Sarah laughed.

The drinks were brought seven minutes later and placed on the table. With their drinks both in their hands, Sam put his arm around her neck again. Then she rested her head lightly on his cheek. The owner watched them and reflected on how he and his wife were like that 40 years before. He instructed an employee to turn on the back fountain, which Sam and Sarah thought was broken.

In the next two minutes, Sam and Sarah heard a noise. The romantic companions witnessed the fountain beginning to spurt out milk and white chocolate. They were pleasantly surprised and Sarah was the first to break the silence “you wanna drink some with me?” “Yeah” the twosome ran without looking back. After one sip they came back to remove their shoes and danced around in it. Neither of them could stop laughing and were enjoying every minute of their night together.

Half an hour successive to that they washed their feet off, wore their shoes and walked to pay the bill at the counter. The chef had baked them what was named ‘white chocolate pie’ but designed in the shape of a cookie. It displayed the message ‘don’t let love die’. They said it to each other and shared it in Sam’s car. Despite the fact it was drawing nearer to 11pm they reminisced about their chocolate memories. Both the son of Mr and Mrs Jones and daughter of Mr and Mrs Smith were amazed at how happy they had kept each other all these years. They knew without God it would have been impossible. It was that moment when Sam decided he would start to plan how he would propose to Sarah. He believed it would be easy since she was going away.

As it reached the final collection of minutes before the clock struck 12, Sam pulled his car over in front of his girlfriend’s dad’s car. They embraced each other and he lovingly kissed her cheek and let her walk to the door of her house. “I love you!” Sarah shouted. “Huh?” Sam pretended he didn’t hear. So she ran back to him and whispered, “I love you”. “I love you too!” Sam yelled. “Sssh people are sleeping” Sarah demanded. “I’m sorry babe” they both shared a smile before Sarah ran back to her door and went in.

Miss Smith woke up for the trip at 5:30am and she was picked up at 7:00am.

Chapter 38

The three days that Sam had to prepare his proposal plans for his girlfriend had come to an end. It was 2:45pm when Sarah received hugs from everybody except Sam who was completing his proposal arrangements. Obviously unaware of this, Sarah paid a visit to Sam’s house. “Hey babe. Come in” Sam welcomed her company. “Don’t hey babe come in me! Did you forget I was coming back today?” Sarah unhappily commanded a reply. “No babe, I had urgent things to attend to but I was coming to ask you to have dinner with me instead of on the phone” Sam alleged and Sarah smiled coyly. “So should I ask you here or you go home first?” Sam gave options. “I’ll dress up then you come and ask” she supposed as she adored his idea. “You got it” she left the house.

Sam and Sarah went out for dinner and Sam went over in his head how he would ask her to marry him. However when they had just ordered dessert Sam got a call to attend a meeting with the rest of the team. So they cancelled dessert but still had to pay for the whole course. Sam took Sarah home and went to the office for the meeting.

At the time he arrived home, he rang Sarah to report what happened at the meeting. Sam, his other colleagues and boss had to embark on a project, lasting a month. Thus the couple could only spend time with each other on the phone for a short period of time.

Though they both wanted to stay in touch, it fell flat as it was an exhausting assignment. Nonetheless, he reorganised his plan to propose the week after the end of the project.

After a while, Sarah’s destiny of becoming a fiancée was obstructed for the second time. The team now needed to complete a 2 week project which would be more hectic. So the boss arranged to give them a 2 day break in Southport prior to it and after in addition. On account of Sam wanting to ask Sarah to marry him, he didn’t want to go. Although he was convinced by his fiancée to be and his boss.

During the teams’ trip at Southport, they enjoyed themselves for just over 2 days. Then the team were flown in a private jet to the work location. None of the employees had an opportunity to have undisturbed sleep. They all soon forgot that they started with a break when it came to an end.

To Sam’s misfortune, it was announced that there would be a delay in flying back to Summerfield. This made Sam feel out of control.

Later on in the week, Sarah called Sam and visited his house. When she couldn’t reach or find him, she remembered where he went to cool off.

Once she was at Woodland Gardens, she identified Sam and walked behind him. When she softly patted his shoulder, he shook and turned round. “Are you okay?” She requested. “No I’m not okay!” Bellowed Sam. “What’s wrong Sam?” Questioned Sarah. “Instead of getting back on the 11th at 10am, I got here on the 13th at 2pm. Then I found out we were expected to be in the office after going on that stupid project which interrupted everything I’ve wanted to do for the last month. On top of that the printers stopped working and I’ve had enough!” Sam let out. “Can I help in any way?” Sarah offered in a sweet manner. “No” Sam answered. “Why?” Sarah was confused. “I just told you, you can’t” he reuttered. “I’m sure there’s something I can do” Sarah asserted. “The only thing you can do is to not be my girlfriend anymore” Sam said. “What do you mean?” Sarah inquired. “I’ve had enough, I don’t want you to be my girlfriend anymore” Sam alleged. “Very funny! An interesting way to show your anger” Sarah thought was a joke. “I’m not joking Sarah, you are not my girlfriend anymore” Sam told her. “Are you being serious?” Sarah needed a weighty confirmation. “Yes, I don’t want you to be my girlfriend anymore” Sam replied. Sarah opened her mouth. “I want you to be my wife!” He changed his facial expression and she covered her mouth. He bent down on one knee and held Sarah’s hand. “Though, I haven’t tried, I know it will be impossible to love any woman the way I love you. You are the most beautiful, lovely, special and wonderful angel I didn’t have to pray for. I love you because you are the kindest friend for worse or better right to the end. Everything about you is adorable from your nose to your toes, please would you marry me?” Sam proposed. “Yes, I will marry you Sam” with tears in her eyes, she accepted and put the ring on her finger. There was a raging applause and a stranger took a photo of their first kiss as fiancées. Then the engaged couple went to share the news with their families.

(Me) At home, everyone in our families and our friends were gathered together at my house. I was feeling so excited but tingly as well. “My cookie, are you ready?” Sam asked me and all I could do was nod my head, so he took my hand and got everyone’s attention. “Thank you for coming here on short notice, I need to share something with you all. This woman you see standing here is the love of my life. She makes each and every day I live, sparkle and glow. I have known her for 9 years and she hasn’t changed, except that she has become more clever, sweet, caring and affectionate. She could just be my friend but naturally that would limit how many times I would see her. I would never get tired of seeing her everyday. I also hope I’m the most handsome and appealing man that she’s ever seen. We love each other so we had to take a stand” he squeezed my hand. “So, we are getting married!!” We announced together and everyone cheered. Joy and Jay screamed deafeningly and I knew I had to rush and hug them to quieten them. They all congratulated us individually and my mum brought drinks and snacks.

We did a double toast which was a drink in one hand and snack in the other. “On 3, 1, 2, 3 cheers!” All glasses clinked while I blissfully clasped Sam and I felt his warm clutch around me.

They all hugged us an hour later and left. My mum joined me in the living room after sending the drink and plates to the kitchen. “Kimmy, I’m so happy Sam got the courage to propose and that you are finally engaged” my mum aired her glee to me. “Did you know he wanted to ask me?” I entreated. “A little bird told me but you know can’t get married for at least a year?” She supposed I knew. “Yeah I do. There’s a lot to think about and arrangements to prepare, my dress, shoes, the suits and everything else” I started to work out the cost. “If you want a big wedding and reception then it will have to be a year and a half” my mother changed her words. “A year and a half for what?” I didn’t want to lose her train of thought. “Before you will be able to marry” my mum made it clear. “Why, are you thinking he will change his mind?” Her answer made me soften my tone. “Far from that. You just need to go through marriage counselling” I was answered. “Mum we hardly ever argue or find it difficult to make up. We go so well together” I emphasized. “I know that but it’s just to give you guidance and understanding from the Christian point of view. It will prepare you for marriage and everything that is expected of you. It really helped me and your dad so please talk to Pastor James on Sunday to arrange the best time” she required. “Okay mum I will talk to Sam about it” I was submissive. “Good girl. Next month, we can start preparation. “Yay” I clapped my hands. “Goodnight bubbles” my mum hugged me and went to bed.

Chapter 39

11 months later...

My friends, I don’t know where you have been hiding but I have been so busy planning my wedding. Everything has gone really well yet I still continue to feel nauseous expecting something bad will arise. I am really glad I took my mum’s advice to do marriage counselling with Sam, but it also made us spend some weeks apart. Pastor James and the other leaders had to take us to different retreats and programmes. All in all it helped us grow and develop. I just have a week and some days till my wedding and I can tell you that I am practiced out. I would actually be tempted to walk down the aisle with my eyes closed to see how perfectly I get it. Unfortunately I’m not the only big news because Jay announced a few weeks back that she and Eric were offered jobs in Colorado. They will be leaving on my wedding day after us.

Anyway, right now I’m with my husband to be. We are spending our last few hours together as fiancées before I go and have my bridal getaway and he gets pampered for the big day. We’re relaxing on the couch, talking about how much has changed, what we expect to change and what we won’t allow to change. I clasp his hand and he tries to do it tighter. “My cuddle muffin” I called for his attention. “Yep my golden cuddles” he smiled at me dreamily. “What is good for you about our competitiveness?” I asked. “We want to see the best in each other” Sam answered. “I don’t know about you but I want to beat the slacking part out of you” I said. “Oh really you think I’m slacking?” He sat up. “You think you can beat me huh” he came closer and started to poke and tickle me. I started giggling but managed to boldly say “yes” he chuckled but eventually said “I can’t argue with you my gorgeous peach. Ok, your turn what is bad for you about our competitiveness??” He turned to face me. “That we don’t know when to stop but I can go longer than you” I attacked him. “Oh really, I’m not tired let’s go then” he stood and tried to clamour me. “Let’s go, try fight me off” I stayed in that position, giggling my eyes out.

After a minute, he joined me then we sat up with our backs straight. “I love you my Kim sparkles and I can’t wait to spend my life with you” Sam attested. “Aww babe me too, you are my marshmallow man and I will always love you” I stood up and I tried to pull him and he helped me. We stood there hugging each other for a long time.

From then we just kept playfully threatening each other and it was something I was always going to cherish. When it got to 7pm my family came back into the house. After he bonded with Carl and Tom, he left to pack for our week till the wedding. I’m gonna have so much fun with my ladies but will try to keep you updated or maybe not.

Chapter 40

(Writer) It had now got to the day Sam and Sarah were going to be married. Everyone was making their way to the Church for the ceremony.

Miss Hope faced the future Mrs Jones in her bridal suite and made a speech. “You really fought for your love. You always know what is important. It would be easier to be jealous if I didn’t love you so much. I’m too excited for you baby girl so let’s get you married” Joy said and helped the bride up.

After opening the service with a prayer, the bride and groom held hands. They faced each other as the bride started to shed tears. Joy wiped the tears, “Sarah from now on we are not going to focus on what we don’t want to see so face your groom” Pastor James told Sarah. Sam and Sarah faced each other. “Now as you face each other you are going to take it in turns to say what you see yourselves to be through your partner’s eyes. So Sarah what do you expect from Sam after today?” Pastor James required of Sarah. “He will keep me safe” Sarah stated. “Sam just like your bride finds safety in you, you will protect Sarah and your family. Sam what do you see in Sarah?” Pastor James gave Sam a chance to add his own. “I can see continuous warmth” Sam replied. “Sarah as Sam sees warmth you will show warm kindness every day. “What else do you see in Sam?” Pastor James turned to the bride. “I see pleasure and laughter” Sarah answered. “As you see you will always provide that for Sam as he will do for you. Sam what do you see in Sarah?” The pastor threw to Sam. “Friendliness and love” Sam claimed. “As you see, that is what you will give to Sarah, now you may give your vows to Sarah” Pastor James allowed. They added their own vows and soon it became the moment of truth.

“You are now husband and wife, kiss your bride scooter” The officiating pastor encouraged Sam. Sam lovingly and boldly kissed his bride and there were cheers in different levels throughout the room. The bride and groom caressed each other then walked happily down the aisle. The bridal party, the parents and the families slowly joined behind.

2pm at the reception hall. “Let’s all rise and say woow to the brand spanking, none like no other newlyweds Mr and Mrs Sam Jones” Pastor James required. “Woow!” The guests followed the instruction. The choir started to serenade the couple as they walked on the path. Sam faced his wife and walked backwards mouthing ‘I know you got me’ and the bride laughed and mouthed ‘always’ back to him. Sam helped his bride to sit down.

Five minutes from then, he took the mike and sat next to someone at a random table and asked “do you know the lady in the front?” “Who is she?” A male Church member played along. “My beautiful, adorable and stylish star” Sam responded. “Is that all?” The guest contributed. “No she’s sweet, kind, cheeky and a diamond to me” The groom expressed. “So now what?” The Church member questioned the groom. “Please, my beautiful bride stand up so everyone can see you” Sam requested. Sarah stood up in her dress. Then she smiled and tears glided slowly down her face as she laughed. People clapped and took pictures of her then Sam went to join her again as she sat down.

“Ladies and gentlemen let us all rise for the opening prayer” Pastor James asked of the guests. “Father Lord Jesus, we thank you for this blessed sunny day. Our hearts are ever filled with thanks and appreciation for your work in, through and on our lives. You always carry us to safety, with your mercies following us and for that we bless you. You have joined us all together with Sam and Sarah to joy in their special day. We are grateful that they thought about us and requested our presence here today. May you bless them forever more in their individual lives and their marriage. I pray for long life for both of them. May you bless them in all ways. As we celebrate them bless us and the food we will eat. We thank you Jehovah in Jesus name and let everyone say amen” Pastor James prayed. “Amen” the Church repeated. The music began and the celebration took off.

Once it was only left with the newlyweds, bridal party and the families, Eric tried to make a silent exit but Sarah noticed. “Where is Eric going?” The new Mrs Jones asked. “He paid up to 6:30pm so he has to move it and pay for an hour extension” Jay explained. “Why only an hour?” Joy required. “We have to be leaving soon to catch our flight” Jay reminded them. “You are so lucky, Jay” Sarah said. “There’s no such thing as luck and have you forgotten you are also going away miss bride” Joy emphasized. “I know but you know what I mean” Sarah responded. “We’re not far away from you Sarah, only a plane ride away and yo..” “Jay we have to go, the meter isn’t working and it’s the only one that is not closed” Eric announced. “Sarah you heard it from him. I’m sorry that I can’t send you away first. Although, I’m happy for you my buddy. Take care of yourself and continue to set an example for us ladies” Jay wished of Sarah and she smiled. “Joy, I know I have been the absolute worst to you but you have still loved me as a sister. I know there were times that you would have thought about strangling me but you didn’t and I appreciate that. I love you J” Jay hugged Joy. “Now, you guys better take good care of my ladies or you will hear from me” Jay jokingly posed a warning. “Yes miss Jay” Max and Sam acknowledged. “You and him also better behave yourself over there” Sam charged them. “Absolutely but if you don’t watch out for us you will be hearing from both of us” all of the gang laughed. Eric hugged Sarah then Sam. “I wish you all the best mate” Eric went to the car. The ladies had a group hug, giggling together then Jay left.

After a while all the parents joined their children. “Come on sweethearts let’s send the lovebirds away” they walked to the car for the newlyweds and said their goodbyes.

“Sarah you will never understand how much of a joy you are to us and we could not be any more overjoyed. We love you very much” Charlotte spoke on Kirk’s behalf. Both parents hugged their daughter and Carl and Tom joined in with the family hug. Then Sarah hugged Joy, “I love you so much Lala”. “I love you sugar puff” Joy responded. After, Sam hugged Joy “dude, don’t ever change Sarah. She’s perfect as she is” Joy said, “I know and I won’t” he smiled then opened the door for his bride. Once he helped her he went to the other side. The car was sparked, the couple looked out of the window and waved. Everyone cheered for the last time while the car moved further away.

8 hours later the newlyweds had arrived at their hotel in Virginia. As the groom unpacked, Sarah got ready to write her last diary entry.

(Me) “So my friends this is the last part of our journey together and it has been amazing. I learnt a lot about what it is to be a great friend, sister and daughter. We all had our individual lives but we shared them with each other. You have been amazing, listening when I wanted to cry, complain, laugh the whole lot. I hope you were touched with my story. I love my friends and family individually and as a whole. Yes even Tom. I now know why he had to act that way and I’m sure you can guess. I myself have had the upside down romance, had it have worked out your way, this could have been a better story. I now understand that one of the best things you can do is weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15). I want to tell you that God is real, He made my life more wonderful than you can imagine. Without Him I wouldn’t be married to my amazing husband. So I would humbly plead with you to give Him a chance, accept Him into your heart and see what wonderful things He has in store for you. Anyway my husband is calling me so I better go and start our marriage off well. Take care and God bless you xxx.