Sticks and Stones

Copyright © 2012 by Maryann Phillips.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

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Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty~One

Chapter Twenty~Two

Chapter Twenty~Three

Chapter Twenty~Four

Chapter Twenty~Five

Chapter Twenty~Six

Chapter Twenty~Seven

Chapter Twenty~Eight

Chapter Twenty~Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty~One

Chapter Thirty~Two

Chapter Thirty~Three

Chapter Thirty~Four

Chapter Thirty~Five

Chapter Thirty~Six

Chapter Thirty~Seven

Chapter Thirty~Eight

Chapter Thirty~Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty~One

Chapter Forty~Two

Chapter Forty~Three

Chapter Forty~Four

Chapter Forty~Five

Chapter Forty~Six

Chapter Forty~Seven

Chapter Forty~Eight

Chapter Forty~Nine

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty~One

Chapter Fifty~Two

Chapter Fifty~Three

Chapter Fifty~Four

Chapter Fifty~Five

Chapter Fifty~Six

Chapter Fifty~Seven

Chapter Fifty~Eight

Chapter Fifty~Nine

Chapter Sixty

Chapter Sixty~One

Chapter Sixty~Two

Chapter Sixty~Three

Chapter Sixty~Four

Chapter Sixty~Five

Chapter Sixty~Six

Chapter Sixty~Seven

Chapter Sixty~Eight

Chapter Sixty~Nine

Chapter Seventy

Chapter Seventy~One

Chapter Seventy~Two

Chapter Seventy~Three

Chapter Seventy~Four

Chapter Seventy~Five

Chapter Seventy~Six

Chapter Seventy~Seven

Chapter Seventy~Eight

Chapter Seventy~Nine

Chapter Eighty

Chapter One

Out!

"Ahhh… Mon Dieu, I need refreshment!"

"One more set?’

"Jamais! I am finished!"

Andrea walked over to the net where her friend and opponent was bent over trying to catch her breath.

You’re getting soft! she laughed as she wiped the perspiration from her own face with the towel she’d hung on the side earlier.

I’m getting old, is what I am. Gabrielle slowly straightened her back, pushed her glasses further up her nose and gratefully accepted the bottle of water that Andrea was holding out to her. "I think I am definitely… antique."

Nonsense! You’ve been taking it too easy. You just haven’t played for a while.

And who has the time? You have as many classes and students as I have, I don’t know how you still manage to get in so much practice. The melodious French tones held a touch of admiration with a hint of envy.

Andrea laughed again.

"Discipline mon ami."

The two women collected the rest of their things and started to walk back towards the court gate.

That and the fear of getting fat.

"Fat? You? I don’t think you have to worry about that chéri. You will never get excédent. It is not in your… trousers."

Genes. Andrea automatically corrected.

They had been friends for the past eleven years and now shared an apartment together. Well Andrea owned the apartment and Gabrielle occupied the second bedroom, paid a nominal rent and shared the household expenses and chores.

They’d met at college, been roommates and then became friends.

They were both teachers at St. Stithians a private school for boys.

Gabrielle came from a small town in Côtes de Provence, one of the wine growing areas in France. Her father had thought it a good idea to further her education in America rather than the Sorbonne, and so had organized for her to finish her schooling in the States. This she’d done and much to his chagrin, she’d stayed on and joined the masses of working immigrants.

Andrea was closer to home. She’d gone to Harvard because she knew they had an excellent Medical programme there.

Her father was one of the leading Neuro brain Surgeons in the world and she had wanted to follow in his footsteps. She’d applied and had been accepted into pre-med. Unfortunately there’d been an incident which had made her change her studies after only a few years and she had switched to Mathematics instead.

Gabrielle had started working at St. Stithians a couple of years before Andrea had joined the staff and they both loved their jobs and were reasonably happy with their lives.

Oh! Oh, I beg your pardon!

Gabrielle had been so busy talking that she hadn’t been looking where she was walking. The tall sandy haired man had pulled at the fenced gate and not expecting the sudden movement, Gabby had launched her body forward and collided with the tall stranger.

"Pardon!"

He caught her against his chest, preventing her from barrelling them both to the grassy verge.

No, it was my fault! Are you okay?

Two pairs of bespectacled eyes, one grey the other a soft velvet brown met.

Andrea watched her friend stare unblinking up into the concerned stranger’s face.

It took a few seconds for the French woman to realize that her hands were still placed firmly on the chest of the stranger.

I… I beg your pardon. She mumbled, her accent very strong in her embarrassment.

She had pushed herself away from his chest, straightening the glasses on the bridge of her nose as her eyes remained fixed on his.

Are you? Are you okay? his tone was gentle his grey eyes reflecting his concern.

"I… Oui, yes! I am fine… Thank you. They continued to keep their eyes locked. It was my fault…"

No, I’m to blame… he smiled gently down at her and she felt the colour in her cheeks rise as she returned his smile.

"You are too kind Monsieur . . . but I wasn’t looking…"

Neither was I…

Well that was certainly interesting.

Hmm… ?

As they entered the elevator Andrea cast a curious glance at her friend. Gabrielle’s mind was elsewhere. Andrea had never before seen her friend so pre-occupied.

You okay? she asked quietly.

The soft elevator music accompanied their assent.

Gabe? She didn’t have a free hand so she raised her tone.

Hmm… ?

You alright?

"Oui . . . parfait mon ami." She turned a radiant face up towards her friend. Absolument parfait!

Andrea couldn’t help smiling as the colour rose further up her friend’s cheeks.

Well you certainly bowled him over!

No! I did nothing of… Her voice trailed off as she realized that her friend was teasing her. Oh you Americans… Your words are all so confusing.

As the lift doors opened they exited and still giggling softly they made their way to their apartment.

They disappeared to their own rooms where they both showered and changed.

As soon as she stepped under the jets of steaming water the smile slid from her face and her thoughts turned to more serious things. It was true, she had been intrigued by her friends reaction to the tall sandy haired man that she’d almost knocked over, but not so bemused that she hadn’t noticed his equally tall companion. She’d looked up, enjoyment still shining from her laughing green eyes, to meet his blue ones. They recognised the shared amusement that they saw in the other.

He was certainly very good looking, she mused silently and wondered who the men were. She’d never seen either of them before today, but that wasn’t all that unusual. There were probably a couple of hundred residents in the complex, and she didn’t know more than twenty or so and maybe another twenty that she was on nodding acquaintance with only.

It was possible that they were only visitors she thought and then dismissed the idea as impossible. The security at the complex was too tight for that. Unless of course one of the residents had given them their keys and security cards.

Pointless musings, Andrea thought. Why did she care who they were? It wasn’t as if she was interested. She only cared about her friend. Neither she nor Gabrielle had anyone important in their lives at present. They both dated occasionally, but neither of them had a steady boyfriend.

How about a glass of wine? Andrea called as she passed Gabrielle’s half open door.

Oui, s’il vous plait.

Andrea carried on into the kitchen humming as she did so.

Opening the refrigerator she removed a bottle of dry white wine that she knew they’d both enjoy.

As she was looking for the bottle opener Gabrielle came through and took down two wine glasses from the cupboard overhead.

While Andrea poured the wine Gabrielle checked the casserole that she’d left in the oven before they’d gone out to play tennis.

Do you want rice? she asked, Or just a salad?

Umm… I’m starving…

After that workout, I’m not surprised. I’ll make rice. Yes?

Great! We can still have a salad if you like.

No. Rice will be good. I’m a little hungry myself.

They were both clad in similar silk lightweight tracksuits after their showers.

As Gabrielle put the rice on to cook, Andrea set two places at the ‘breakfast area’ in the kitchen. When they’d finished what they were doing, they went through to the sitting room to relax and enjoy their wine.

Andrea had dried her shoulder length auburn hair but Gabrielle’s was so long that it draped down her back and shoulders in a damp curtain.

Have you ever seen them before?

Who?

About to answer, Gabrielle raised her flushed face just in time to see the teasing grin on her friend’s face.

Oh you!

Andrea laughed aloud.

Don’t tell me that after that whole little song and dance routine, you didn’t even get his name? she teased.

Gabby opened her mouth to answer and though better of it and closed it again, a frown creasing her brow.

"Merde!" she muttered under her breath.

Andrea curtailed her amusement. She realized that her friend was serious and didn’t want to hurt or annoy her.

I’m sure they’ll turn up again.

They? Gabrielle’s eyebrow rose.

Him. I meant him.

Hmm… I think you…

No you don’t! Andrea interrupted rudely. "Don’t turn this on me mon ami. This is your fantasy, not mine. He’s your knight in shining armour."

Gabrielle took a thoughtful sip from her glass as she looked over the rim towards her flatmate. Andrea had the grace to blush but she refused to meet the soft brown eyes. In her mind she was reminded of the piercing blue eyes that had locked with hers as they’d enjoyed their respective friends obvious attraction to each other.

Chapter Two

Andrea couldn’t help feeling sorry for her friend. It was four days since they’d bumped into the two men and she was nowhere nearer to finding out who they were or which apartment they lived in. Gabrielle had tortured herself with thoughts of him probably being married or involved at any rate. She’d even wondered if he was possibly gay. Maybe they were an item, the two men!

Andrea had listened to her ramblings throughout this time.

They’d gone down to the tennis courts every day. Gabrielle’s sudden interest in exercise had nothing to do with the workout so much as her hope of bumping into her tall stranger again.

She’d gone down to the foyer a number of times, offering to check for post, when all the while Andrea knew she was just wishing for a second chance of meeting him.

The moment she entered the apartment Andrea knew something had happened.

She could hear Gabrielle singing. Her bedroom door was open, the bathroom door ajar and the happy tones could be heard over the noise of the shower spray.

You sound in a good mood. She called over the sounds.

Pardon? The water stopped.

I said you seem to be in a good mood. Andrea sat on the edge of her friend’s bed.

"Oui! I am in a very great mood mon ami."

As she spoke she popped her head around the door.

Andrea saw the radiance on her friend’s face and knew immediately that Gabrielle had either seen her mystery man or had found out something about him.

You saw him then?

Oui. She stepped through the door, her head wrapped in a towel, her body hugged snugly in a towelling robe.

She couldn’t help grinning as she spun happily across the room.

His name is Jeffery! Jeffery Ashmore.

Andrea smiled as she nodded her head.

And?

And… Gabrielle couldn’t hide her excitement. And he does not live here…

Not?

"Non! It is his friend who has the apartment here."

That so? Andrea was annoyed at how her insides clenched at the information.

Yes that is so.

What? I beg your pardon?

I said we are going out for dinner.

We are?

"No, no, not you and me chéri, me and Jeffery."

You and Jeffery?

"Mes oui."

Andrea was quiet. Misunderstanding her silence Gabrielle sat beside her friend and took one of her hands in hers.

I am so sorry Andy, She pronounced it Ahn-dee. I’m sorry to leave you with such short notice.

Andrea shook her head.

Don’t be silly Gab. I’m very happy for you.

But supper. I am sorry to leave you. Oh Andy… I’m, I’m…

Hey, hey Gab. Don’t worry about it Hon. Andrea hugged her friend. I’m not very hungry anyway. I could do with an early night. You go and enjoy yourself.

You are sure?

Absolutely!

"Thank you mon ami. You are a good friend."

The two women smiled at one another before Andrea left her flatmate to dress for her date.

When Jeffery arrived he was introduced to Andrea.

Gabrielle stood by smiling happily. She so wanted her friend to like the man she’d been obsessing over for the past few days. She didn’t need it, but she wanted Andrea’s approval. As it was Andrea thought he seemed like a very nice person. She told them to enjoy their evening and then settled herself in for the night. As she thought about the excitement on her friend’s face as the couple had left, she smiled to herself and wished her friend every happiness.

Andrea used the evening to mark papers. She worked away in her study with a glass of wine within easy reach and sipped slowly as she went through her student’s efforts. Some time later she made herself a sandwich and poured herself a second glass of wine.

She went to bed just before midnight. Gabrielle hadn’t come home yet.

The first time they bumped into each other was in the Teacher’s lounge for morning tea.

Well you certainly don’t look any the worse for wear.

Gabrielle grinned up at her friend.

You had a good evening?

Merveilleux!

Hmmm… yes… So I see…

Oh Andy… He is even more… more…

The two friends hugged.

I’m happy for you Gab… Very happy.

Aren’t you tired? She asked curiously as she watched her friend getting ready to go out. It was early evening and they were both back at the apartment.

How can I be tired when life is so exciting?

But you never slept a wink last night.

Life is too short to waste it on sleep. The warm brown eyes laughed across at her friend.

Andrea couldn’t help smiling as she shook her head.

He must really be something. I’ve never seen you like this before.

Umm… he is…

I can’t believe you just talked all night.

Gabrielle’s cheeks coloured but her chin lifted and there was a flash of hurt in her dark eyes and the joy in her voice was gone.

"I am not a… a saligaude." She spoke quietly.

Oh Gabby, I didn’t say you were a slut. I’m sorry Honey. I do believe you. I… it’s just so… so…

Étonnant?

Amazing! Yes! That’s what it is!

Gabrielle lowered her head and her friend reached out to touch her shoulder.

I think it’s wonderful Gabby. You deserve to be happy.

The two friends looked at each other. Andrea smiled into her friend’s face.

Merci. She answered quietly as they hugged each other.

Enjoy your evening Gab.

I intend to!

Chapter Three

Nick checked his watch. Damn he was running late.

One of Simon’s teachers had asked to see him. He didn’t know what he wanted that was so urgent it couldn’t wait for Parents evening, but it seamed the school had telephoned the day before and Judith, his secretary had set the meeting up for five o’clock today.

He looked again at his watch.

Shit! He hated to be late.

When he arrived at the school he slipped easily into the vacant parking lot. It was late Friday afternoon and the place was deserted. There were only two other cars besides his own. Hopefully one of them belonged to the doctor.

As he climbed out of his Jaguar, he pulled the slip of paper from his jacket pocket and read the information.

‘Dr. Richardson

St. Stithians

Third Floor

Room 309

Time: 17:00’

Damn! He checked his watch again. 17:28.

He made his way over to the main building, trying to remember the layout and which staircase would bring him closest to his goal.

As he pulled open one of the heavy doors he found himself thinking back twenty years. He remembered the first day he’d put foot in the stately old Historic building.

He’d come here like his father before him and his grandfather before that. The school was steeped in tradition and had long since been the preferred choice of education for the Hollingsworth men.

Usually he enjoyed spending time in these hallowed halls. There was more than one reminder of his family’s prowess and superior athletic abilities. His own name and photograph appeared at least twenty times in various photos and on different trophies. He would never admit it to anyone, but he was proud to see himself immortalized among all the past history of St. Stithians.

Afternoon. Help you Sir?

Nick was surprised by the sudden appearance of the Security Guard.

Afternoon. I’ve an appointment with Dr. Richardson, room 309.

Know your way?

If memory serves, it should be just up those stairs and then down on the left hand side overlooking the car park.

Right you are Sir. Reckon you’ll be alright then.

Thanks. Yeah I think I’ll manage.

The two men nodded before Nick took off up the stairs.

Ummm… Sorry to disturb you…

Andrea turned from the notice board to face her visitor.

You? there was shocked surprise in both voices as they exclaimed in unison.

Ah… I’m sorry, I’m looking for Dr. Richardson.

Nick was the first to recover his momentum.

Well you found her. You must be Mr. Hollingsworth?

"You? I thought…"

I know what you thought. Her tone was suddenly dry and tinged with irritation. He was fascinated by the mood change reflected in the direct green eyes.

No please… I’m sorry. His voice trailed off. Yes, I’m Nick Hollingsworth…

They stared across at each other. Nicholas was struck, first by her beauty, the smoothness of her clear skin and then by the fragrance that seemed to permeate from her.

Andrea moved around her desk, her eyes deliberately skimming her watch. She was more annoyed by his sexist assumption than by his lateness. The movement wasn’t lost on him.

I’m sorry I’m late! My meeting ran… His voice trailed off into silence

Will you have a seat Mr. Hollingsworth?

Nick! Please. Ignoring his suggestion Andrea indicated the chair she’d placed on the other side of her desk earlier.

Thank you for coming… she began.

It sounded important.

I think so.

There was silence as they both sat wearily eyeing the other.

Andrea’s shoulder length auburn hair was pulled back loosely into a gold clip at the base of her neck. She was wearing a dark suit with a pale green silk blouse. A single strand of pearls hung around her neck and a matching stud pierced the lobe of each ear. She was always very careful to appear business like, without seeming too aloof when dealing with her students as well as their parents. Or in this case, guardian. She knew she had a good body and thought it prudent to play down her assets rather than flaunt them in front of her students. She taught boys. Teenagers between sixteen and eighteen years of age. Young men who’s libido’s and raging hormones were difficult enough to control at that age, without encouraging or inviting unnecessary attention to herself.

Simon! Andrea began, trying not to show how uncomfortable she was feeling under his scrutiny.

Yes?

You’re his guardian?

Correct. I’m also his brother.

Andrea nodded. She raised her emerald eyes from the folder in front of her and fixed them on his face. She was distracted by the intense blue of his eyes. For a moment she recalled their brightness as he’d smiled at her in his tennis whites.

Is there a problem?

Nick’s quietly asked question brought her mind back to the meeting at hand.

What? Oh yes! she was momentarily disconcerted, but soon recovered. Well maybe ‘problem’ is too strong a word.

Oh, than what word would you use?

Andrea returned his stare, her own eyes not wavering.

Challenge!

Challenge?

Yes. Andrea was glad of the need to remove a ledger from her desk drawer and break eye contact. The book held all the records of all her students. She didn’t really need it, as most of what she needed to recall was firmly fixed in her mind.

She felt the heat rise in her cheeks. Self-consciously she tucked an imaginary tendril of dark auburn hair behind her ear. She clasped her hands on top of the ledger and willing them not to shake she lifted her clear green gaze across the desk.

Your… Simon is a very bright… student.

Nick nodded, sat back and crossed one leg over the other.

Andrea couldn’t help noticing the sharp crease line on the elegant charcoal suit. He wore a light blue shirt, which intensified the colour of his eyes. She noticed the gold cufflinks between the suit sleeves, and his slim tanned hands.

She dragged her eyes away from his elegant fingers and clearing her voice she silently cursed herself for allowing him to unsettle her.

At present he… he’s averaging a B+.

B+?

Yes. He’s also an excellent athlete as I’m sure you’re aware…

Hang on a minute. Nick leant forward across the desk. A B+ isn’t what I’d call… bright!

No. Not in the overall scheme of things.

Well what are you saying then?

Simon manages to keep most of his grades… well above average. Usually A’s.

Yes that’s what I thought.

But not all. She spoke quietly.

What do you mean? If he’s getting A’s, how’s it his average is a B+?

Well that’s the… challenge. For the first time she smiled and he saw the dimples crease her slightly flushed cheeks. She saw his confusion, the smile quickly faded and then she continued.

The reason for Simon’s er… predicament… as it were… is his Maths.

Maths?

Mr. Hollingsworth… er… do you ever check on Simon’s homework? Help him?

Help him? Shit, the kid’s bright! You said so yourself.

Yes I did! And he is… She moved back in her chair almost subconsciously distancing herself from his annoyed tone.

Then how can you…

Mr. Hollingsworth! Please! I’m trying to explain to you…

Explain what? That my brother’s not the genius we all think him to be?

Mr. Hollingsworth…

Nick! I told you my name’s Nick. He stood up and with his hands thrust into his trousers pockets he turned his back on her.

Andrea was annoyed by his attitude. With his back to her, he didn’t see the glint of steel that had entered her eyes.

Mr. Hollingsworth… She repeated as she slowly stood up.

He swung around and the two faced each other like sparing partners.

If you’ll let me finish… she spoke through clenched teeth, her eyes bright with annoyance.

Removing one of his hands from its confinement, he waved it dismissively to indicate for her to continue.

The gesture annoyed her even further. With arms crossed over her chest she took a deep breath to steady herself.

"Firstly Simon is bright. One of the brightest students I’ve ever had the pleasure to teach." In her anger she began to pace.

Secondly, she turned around to confront him once again. He’s not immortal!

She saw his eyebrow rise.

Surprising as that may be to you… her anger lent volume to her words. Realizing that she was loosing control of her temper, Andrea took a shaky breath.

Simon has an exceptional mind. She began more quietly. The setback he seems to be experiencing is not insurmountable.

Go on. He too had lowered his tone.

I could help him with a little extra tuition…

Tuition? Nicholas had stopped pacing. He stared across at her for a few seconds before understanding dawned and incredulity filled his angry voice.

Tuition?

Yes! I thought…

Yeah sure you did! he interrupted rudely.

Excuse me?

What is it with women like you?

Women like me? What… ?

Jesus! Aren’t there enough men out there… ? Do you have to… to… ?

To what?

To hit on kids! Young boys!

Hit on? What are you talking about?

Andrea saw the sneer that lifted the corner of his mouth.

The look of derision on his handsome face came as a shock. With sudden clarity she realized what he was insinuating. The comprehension of his accusations brought the colour rushing into her cheeks. She stepped back from him, her hand reaching out for the solidness of her desk.

She took a steadying breath.

Yes Mr. Hollingsworth. She spoke quietly through a jaw that barely moved. Tuition! Extra lessons. Supervised help! Her eyes blazed. Would you like a few more synonyms? Or will that suffice?

Nick stood still. He realized how angry he’d made her, but more than that he had watched the colour flame her face before draining away and leaving her pale and shaking. Taking a step towards her he reached out a hand in a gesture of apology.

He was more perturbed still when she took a step back, recoiling from his touch.

I’m sorry… That was uncalled for.

Yes it was. Her voice was icy.

Look… Once again he stepped forward. This time she stood her ground.

Don’t you dare touch me. She hissed.

He stopped.

I’m sorry.

I’m not interested in your apology.

It was on the tip of his tongue to ask her what she was interested in but held his silence.

If it wasn’t that I’m concerned for Simon, she continued as she turned and sat back behind her desk, I’d end this conversation right here and now. As it is… I don’t give a toss about what you think of me.

Dr. Richardson… please.

Andrea held up her hand.

I’d prefer if you remained silent Mr. Hollingsworth.

Nick was astounded. It wasn’t often anyone spoke to him this way. He was the CEO of a multi billion Corporation. He and his family were well respected. Wealthy. He opened his mouth only to shut it again.

"I will, for Simons sake, give him a list of recommended male Tutors."

Please! he began only to have her rise her voice and talk over his protestations.

You can make a choice from that, or find someone yourself that you believe more suitable. Of course being male would not necessary guarantee acceptable sexual practices. Irrespective, I would advise you not to ignore my recommendation and to seek help for your brother. She stood suddenly. Now if you’ll excuse me it’s late and I have a home to get to.

Please, I want to apologise. He too stood.

I don’t want your apology. Please leave my classroom. She collected her briefcase from under her desk below and then turned her cold green gaze on him. Once again he opened his mouth but the look of contempt on her face closed it before he could think of something to say.

I’m sorry. He said quietly as he turned and walked slowly from the room.

Once she was sure he had left, Andrea collapsed onto her chair. Her heart was thumping in her chest and she felt the vicelike grip around her head. Nausea clutching at her stomach.

Holding her head in shaky hands she lowered them to rest on her desk.

Chapter Four

"What is it chéri? You look terrible."

A headache. I’ll be fine.

"Ahhh… mon ami. Here let me help you."

I’m fine Gab, thanks. I just need to lie down.

Are you sure? I will stay with you.

No Gab! Really I’m fine. Please all I want is my bed. You go and enjoy yourself.

I think you need me. Jeffery will understand.

No Gabby please. I just want my bed.

Gabrielle watched her friend walk down the passage and disappear through her bedroom door. She was concerned for her friend but realized the futility of pursuing the matter further.

When Jeffery arrived a half hour later he could see that she was worried. When she explained about Andrea, he agreed that she should stay at home. As disappointed as he was, he knew from all they’d shared over the past few days that Andrea was like a sister to her and that she’d never be able to relax if they went out. She was too worried about her flatmate.

They stayed. Gabrielle made them dinner and they tried to keep as quiet as possible, not wanting to disturb Andrea.

This wasn’t too difficult as they sat entwined on the couch. They were as close as it was possible for two people to get without getting naked and sexual.

For now they were happy to just be together. Their relationship had developed faster in the past three days than either of them had ever thought possible.

When Jeff left just after midnight, they were reluctant to say goodnight, but they both knew that Gabby’s mind was not altogether with them. She was still worried about Andrea. She could see that her friend’s light was still on in the bedroom and considered knocking on the door.

Instead she went into her own room and had a shower.

Once she’d finished she climbed into her bed and tried to read but her mind wouldn’t settle. Eventually she gave up. Threw back the covers and walked with purpose towards her friend’s door.

She tapped softly in case Andrea was asleep.

Yes?

She heard the quiet response.

Andy?

Yeah?

May I come in?

Yes of course. Andrea put aside the book she’d been trying to read. As Gabby climbed onto the bed she studied her friend with concern.

You should have gone out. She reprimanded her friend gently. Gabrielle took her friend’s hand, the soft sounds of a piano concerto emanating from the bedside radio.

Are you feeling a little better?

Andrea lied as she nodded and smiled at her flatmate.

I’m fine Gab. I told you…

The French woman shook her head dismissively.

I do not believe that. She stated with conviction. "I know you chéri, and I know when things are not well."

Really Gab. It’s nothing!

Ahh! So it was something! Tell me!

No. Please Gab…

I will not leave you! You will tell me what it was that upset you so. I will help!

There’s nothing you can do. It’s over. Forget it!

No it is not over. I can still see the unhappiness.

Gab…

"I will listen! Talk to me! I will not leave until you tell me chéri!"

Andrea groaned.

Honestly Gab… It’s over.

Gabrielle made herself more comfortable.

I am listening…

You’re relentless.

Gabrielle shrugged indifferently.

"I am waiting mon ami."

Andrea sat further up against her headboard.

Twenty minutes later the only sounds to be heard were the strains of melodious music.

Are you sure that was what he meant?

Andrea nodded. She was too angry to cry. She’d already shed all the tears she was going to on Nicholas Hollingsworth. She wouldn’t allow herself to feel hurt or humiliated any longer.

Oh yeah! He meant it alright. She closed her eyes and rested her head back against the headboard.

Mon Dieu.

Yeah you can say that again.

Bâtard!

Yeah… Bastard!

But… there’s something I don’t understand…

What’s that?

How could he think… ?

Andrea shrugged. Sitting up she held her head between her hands. When the tears threatened once again she tried to blink them away.

"Ahh chéri . . . I am so sorry…"

Still unable to talk Andrea nodded again. She wiped at the moisture on her face.

I… I feel so ashamed… It was barely a whisper.

"Non, non mon ami. This is not your problem. Not your fault!" Gabrielle put her arms around her friend. The gesture made Andrea cry all the harder.

When she was all cried out, Andrea pulled herself away from her friend’s comforting arms.

I’m sorry Gab… I’m fine. Really. Her dimples creased her pale cheeks as she tried to smile.

Gabrielle patted her friend’s hand as she climbed off the bed.

I make some hot chocolate. Yes?

Andrea smiled.

That sounds good. Yes!

Good. You stay there. I will not be too long.

Andrea lay back against her pillows. She felt a whole lot better.

Gabrielle returned ten minutes later with two steaming mugs of chocolate.

The two friends sat on Andrea’s bed and enjoyed the hot beverage.

It was after two o’clock when Gabrielle returned to her own bed and they were both finally able to fall asleep.

Despite the lateness of her going to bed, Andrea was up just after six and hit the pavement jogging soon after.

Because it was Saturday and she didn’t have a deadline to get to school, she used the free time to extend her morning exercising ritual.

Heading down towards the park, her running shoes slapped lightly on the asphalt. The sun had barely raised its head, but Andrea liked this time of day best. She loved to hear the birds, to catch glimpses of them as they flew between branches and bushes. Unlike the few other joggers she refused to wear headphones and carry a walkman. She preferred to listen to the sounds of nature over mechanical tones any day.

As she entered the park she took deep lung cleansing breaths. Her head was still a little foggy from lack of sleep and the upset of the night before but she pushed herself forward, determined to put the events behind her. Without easing up on her pace she dodged an elderly gentleman and his fox terrier.

Morning Colonial, Gunner.

Morning Andrea.

Seymour Lockwood raised his hat and his dog gave a barked response. She’d been meeting up with them regularly for the past three years.

Once when she hadn’t seen them for two days in a row, she’d worried enough to seek them out. After a couple of hours she’d discovered that they lived in a small bedsitter quite close to where she herself lived. On further investigation she found the retired Colonial lying in a damp bed of perspiration. His breathing was laboured and he was running a high fever.

Andrea had immediately called for an ambulance and had accompanied the old man to the hospital.

When Seymour Lockwood had regained his strength and realized where he was, he became agitated over the plight of his beloved four-legged companion.

His mind was put to rest a few hours later when Andrea appeared with Gunner hidden in the basket she was carrying.

The old man’s eyes had filled with grateful tears.

From that day forward, Andrea took on the responsibility of her new friend and his faithful companion. When Seymour Lockwood needed anything, Andrea made sure he got it, when he was down or lonely she visited him and raised his spirits. When the Colonial fell prey to the recurring Malaria originally contacted in Africa more than forty years before, it was Andrea that he telephoned.

She continued on her run.

After an hour and with carefully controlled breathing she aimed for the path to the left, past a cluster of flowering wisteria and down towards the pond.

When she reached the water she eased up on running and stopped to do a few stretching exercises. Ten minutes later she sat herself along the bank and pulled out a plastic bag of stale bread that she’d brought with her.

As it always did, the sights of the elegant white swans and the Egyptian geese as they swam towards her for their titbit brought a smile to her face. She loved their graceful movements as they cut their way smoothly through the water.

God they were so beautiful, she thought. Beautiful and serene. They filled her with pleasure. Were a reminder of how wonderful life could be. Of the beauty that did still exist around her. You just had to know where to look.

Chapter Five

Aghh… You make me tired, just to look at you. Gabrielle groaned as she spooned a generous amount of freshly ground coffee beans onto the filter paper nestled in the glass coffee pot.

Morning! Good sleep?

Gabrielle made a mew with her mouth.

I am still sleep deprived. What you see is only the allusion of me being awake.

Andrea grinned.

Go back to bed. I’ll bring you some coffee when it’s ready.

"Je voudrais pouvoir. Unfortunately I have made arrangements to meet Jeffery."

Well I’m off for a shower.

Good! I will begin breakfast. Yes?

Sure. I won’t be long.

Take your time.

Twenty minutes later Andrea emerged wearing shorts and a T-shirt.

Right! What can I do?

Help yourself to coffee and than sit and enjoy it.

What about the toast? Can I start that?

Gabrielle shrugged.

If you like, but it is not necessary. I have everything under control.

Andrea turned around from pouring her coffee.

Refill?

Mes oui.

Umm… You’ve cooked up a storm.

Pardon?

You’ve made a feast! What’s the occasion?

Gabrielle shrugged dismissively.

Not so much. She defended herself. Besides you are hungry. You eat no dinner and then you run for hours.

Andrea laughed.

What’s the real reason Gab?

What do you mean?

Look Gabby, I’m not an idiot. We never have a breakfast like this. What are you really doing?

Nothing! the French woman defended herself.

Is Jeffery coming? Is that why you’ve made all this food?

No! I just wanted…

Gabby? Cut the crap and tell me what’s up.

The small woman turned to the stove and pretended to be busy.

"I don’t know what you are talking about!’

Gabrielle Maria Stephanie De Beauvoir. Look at me and tell me there’s nothing going on here.

You are talking…

Gabby!

The smaller woman swung around, spatula in her hand and a guilty look on her embarrassed face.

Merde! She grumbled. You have a suspicious mind.

Not unfounded it would seem.

"Andy, chéri . . ."

"Don’t chéri me. What’s up?"

The guilty flush deepened.

"I am sorry mon ami. I, I was feeling bad…"

About what?

About what happened yesterday…

But that’s got nothing to do with you.

"Yes, but he… this bas . . . Nicholas… He is Jeffery’s friend. His boss."

So?

So Jeffery and me… we…

Gabby, Honey this has nothing to do with you and Jeffery. Nicholas Hollingsworth is my… Well no, he’s not even my problem. He’s nothing. Simply an irritation. Something that happened. Someone to forget. He means nothing to me and certainly isn’t going to influence anything further in our lives.

If I… Gabrielle began cautiously. If Jeffery and I…

What? If you and Jeffery get any more serious… ? So what?

I really like him Andy. Her friend spoke softly.

You’re nuts about him, I know. And I’m happy for you. Truly. This isn’t going to be a problem.

You are sure?

Absolutely! Now shut up and let’s get this breakfast finished. I’m starving.

Before she turned back to the frying pan Gabrielle hesitated only slightly.

I am also trying to… to…

To what?

She looked shamefaced.

I… I feel guilty.

What for?

I am going out later.

Of course you are.

No you don’t understand.

What don’t I understand?

I am going with Jeffery.

So I assumed. Andrea began dryly.

I… I should not be leaving you.

Nonsense! I’m fine. Besides, I have some work to do and I’m going out later myself.

You are?

Sure. She lied straight faced.

Where?

Movies.

Really?

Yeah really. Now hurry up with this food before I faint from starvation.

Happily Gabrielle turned back to the stove.

How many eggs?

It was just on eleven when Jeffery Ashmore arrived with a florist deliveryman in tow.

Found this guy getting into the elevator. Guess he was heading in the same direction as me.

The young man’s face was hidden behind the large display of red and yellow tulips.

"Oh how magnifique. Gabrielle gazed in wonderment. Andy, they are for you chéri."

"Me?"

You are Dr. Richardson. No? She turned holding out the vase of flowers.

Yes but…

As she spoke Andrea removed the card and began to read the message. When she noticed who the sender was she turned angrially.

Take them away. She spoke quietly but firmly.

"Quelle?"

I said give them back to him.

"Are you crazy? These are wonderful! Magnifique!"

Well you keep them then.

As she spoke she turned her back on the gaping trio. Do whatever you like with them. Just get them out of my sight. I don’t want to see them.

Andy! You can’t…

Can’t I?

The angry woman walked through to her study where she sat down at her desk and opened up her laptop.

Fifteen minutes later her friend tapped lightly on the door.

Andy?

Yeah?

She forced a smile up at the concerned face.

Are you okay?

Sure. You leaving now?

Do you mind?

Heavens no! Have a good time.

You will be alright?

Absolutely! Now get out of here. Go and enjoy yourselves. As she spoke she stood up from her desk and hugged her friend. Arm in arm they walked out the door together.

Jeffery was standing waiting near the front door.

Have a good time you two. She tried to hold the smile on her face, but both her friend and the tall man could see the hurt behind the overly bright green eyes.

"Are you sure mon ami?"

Will you get out of here already? Gees what am I going to have to do to get rid of you two?

Gabrielle hugged her