Hollywood Ever After

by Sasha Summers

  “You should ask her. She loves Brighton and could show you around. If she doesn’t have to work, that is.” Josh took another bite of toast.

  “Work?” Will made his evil troll face, sending Nat into a fit of laughter.

  “Can I borrow that face? Brilliant.” Josh laughed too, Will’s natural dramatics catching him off guard.

  I felt a tug at my heart. This could be my new family, if I let it. How did I get so lucky? A new set of giggles started as Josh tried to imitate Will’s expression. He almost nailed it. The meal deteriorated as Will and Josh continued to challenge each other with goofy faces, sound-effect noises and imitations. Natalie and I couldn’t eat for fear of choking.

  After we left the dining room, Josh took the kids “for an explore” in the park and let me pack.

  “Are you sure you’re up for it?” I asked as Will grabbed his hand and began to drag him from the dining room.

  He smiled. “We’ll be fine. Pack so we can leave.”

  Natalie waved and took Will’s other hand while I headed up to the hotel room. Mom was done packing her things and had begun to fill Natalie’s bags. I helped, going from room to room to collect all the bits and bobs that had been left throughout.

  “Do you remember Brighton?” my mother asked as we worked.

  I shook my head. “Not really. A little of the pier…and meeting a cute boy there.”

  My mother shook her head. “You were Nat’s age when we went. I’m excited. And the kids will love it.”

  “Are you sure you want them to go with you?”

  “Absolutely.” She paused and cast an assessing gaze my way. “I can’t tell what’s going through your head, sweetie, but you’re welcome to come with us to Brighton. Maureen would love that.” She watched me. “If you don’t want to go with Josh, I mean. Are you doubting things with him? It’s happening kind of quickly, you know.”

  “That’s not the problem, Mom. I want to be with him.” Too much.

  I zipped up the kids’ suitcases, relieved when she didn’t say anything more. The suite was almost tidy when the door to the suite opened.

  “Holy cow!” Natalie squealed as she entered the hotel suite. Will was scowling. He walked straight to me and hugged my knees.

  “What happened?” I asked.

  Josh walked in. “I’m sorry. I didn’t see them until they were snapping pictures.”

  “Them?” I asked, smoothing Will’s hair back.

  “Photographers.” Natalie sat with a sigh. “Really rude photographers.”

  Will looked up at me, tears in his eyes. “Josh asked them to give us some space, but one got right in my face and took a picture. And they kept asking me questions over and over. Real loud.”

  “That doesn’t sound like fun,” I murmured, hunching over to rub his back and drop kisses on his head. “I’m sorry they upset you.”

  Josh tossed his sunglasses and hat onto the chair and dropped to his knees before Will. “I’m sorry, Will. That was my fault. I should have been more aware of our surroundings. I’m not used to having to look out for anyone but me yet.” He glanced back and forth between Natalie and Will, sincerely concerned.

  “You didn’t do it, Josh. It was those…those…dorks.” Will spoke with as much anger as his five-year-old self could muster.

  Josh smiled slightly. His voice was edged with frustration. “They were indeed.”

  “It’s a good thing I didn’t have my light saber,” Will added.

  “Actually, I’d have enjoyed that.” Josh still sounded unsettled.

  “I guess that’s what happens when you’re a celebrity.” Natalie said. She was watching me, her face concerned. “It’s okay, Mom. It wasn’t a big deal, really. They were loud and it scared Will a little bit.”

  Mom entered the room, pulling a suitcase behind her.

  “Grams, we were attacked by these horrible dorky men!” Will announced. “And Josh would have let me light saber them if I’d had my light saber. But I didn’t.” He recovered quickly.

  My mother’s eyebrows arched. “Oh?”

  “Photographers,” Natalie explained. “I guess that was our first brush with paparazzi.”

  Josh stood. He dragged a hand through his hair, sending it every which way, before it fell to his side. His hands fisted and he wouldn’t look at me.

  “You can tell me all about it on the train, Will, every little detail.” My mother was amused.

  Natalie sat forward, her blue eyes growing wide. “Oh my gosh. Does this mean I’m going to be in the paper?” she asked, staring at Josh.

  He sighed, nodding his head. “It’s possible.”

  She hopped up and ran to the tall gilt mirror over the entry table and surveyed herself. “Okay. I mean, I guess I look decent.”

  Josh stared at her in surprise then chuckled. “You look great, Natalie. No worries there.”

  She smiled at him. “It’s kind of exciting, you know? I mean, not the jumping out part, but the whole picture in the papers part.”

  Josh shook his head.

  There was a knock on the door and the bellboy entered. The next few minutes were devoted to making sure nothing was left in the hotel. Will crawled under the beds and chairs, checking every nook and cranny before we took the elevator to the lobby. There was a taxi waiting to take Mom and the kids to Paddington Station and their train.

  Will babbled about the sweets trolley the whole ride down. I pleaded with my mother to restrict the sweets trolley purchases to one item per child. She patted my hand and told me not to worry. Which wasn’t the answer I was looking for, but the one I kind of knew to expect.

  “I’m afraid there are some photographers out front, Mr. Wiley.” The concierge met us at the elevator doors. “We’ve been able to keep them out so far.”

  I smiled as Natalie patted her hair and straightened her shirt. “Let’s just say goodbye here. You’re going to have a terrific time and we’ll see you at the station in Stratford in a few days.”

  Will hugged Josh fiercely, whispering, “And don’t worry, Josh. I have my light saber this time.” Josh still looked concerned, but he tried to laugh for Will’s sake.

  Kisses, hugs, and several cheerful goodbyes later, the kids and Mom were safely stowed in the cab and off to the train station.

  Josh asked the valet to bring the car to the back door. We headed back up to get my bags.

  Once the elevator door closed, I turned to him. “Will’s right, Josh. This isn’t your fault.”

  He finally looked at me and I saw how upset he really was. He nodded his head, but his face remained stiff.

  I hugged him, wrapping my arms around him. “It’s okay.”

  His arms caught me to him. “It bloody well isn’t okay and I know it. Will was scared. I think Nat was a bit, too, though she’d never admit it now. It shouldn’t have happened.”

  I wasn’t thrilled about it, but there’d been no harm done. I was, after all, dating someone in the public eye. It was something I was going to have to be prepared for if I wanted this to work out.

  And I did.

  I tried teasing. “It’s not a big deal. If I become some big-time published author, it’ll happen all the time.”

  “I’d like to have Meg look into security for the children. Maybe for me and you as well?” He was asking for permission.

  “Will it make you feel better?”

  “A bit.”

  “Then please call her.” I added, “Now.”

  He arched an eyebrow at me. “Now?”

  “I don’t want this morning to ruin our time together.” I spoke softly. “Please call her so you won’t worry or stress anymore.”

  His hand cupped my cheek. “You’re remarkable.”

  “I am?”

  “You are.” His smile grew. “Which is why I love you so very much.”

  How did his sweet declaration make me so euphoric and completely terrified all at the same time? It was somewhat of a mystery.

  I was saved from having to sa
y anything as the elevator doors opened. I stepped out of the elevator and led the way back to our suite, talking over my shoulder to fill the silence. “I’d planned to have everything ready when the kids left. Will we be late getting in?” I led the way across the sitting room to my room.

  “No, it’s a short trip.” He followed. “Did you enjoy London?”

  I smiled at him. “Yes.”

  “It’s been going rather well.” Josh was smiling as he spoke. “Except for this morning, I mean.”

  I scowled at him then said, “It’s going great, Josh. Amazingly.” I glanced into the open suitcase on the bed.

  He shot me a lopsided grin. “You sound doubtful?”

  “It’s an adjustment. For me, that is. I keep waiting for something to…turn off the happy.” I laughed a little.

  “I forbid it.” He made a stern face and I laughed. “The cottage might seem a bit small after this, though. And will be somewhat less elegant, as well.” He stared about the hotel room with meaning.

  “That’s fine. I’ve been terrified Will would break something or Natalie would spill nail polish or soda on the silk upholstery.”

  I went into the bathroom and quickly put all of my toiletries in my bag. After I’d made sure the cabinet was empty and I had all of my personal items, I took the bag back into the bedroom and put it in my suitcase.

  “There’s only one thing I’ve loved about this room,” I said. “I didn’t have to share a bed. Will becomes a ninja warrior when he’s sleeping and Natalie talks in her sleep. Neither are the best bed partners.”

  “If I promise not to kick you or talk in my sleep, will you let me share your bed?” His voice tickled my ear as he came up behind me. He moved my hair from my neck, dropping a warm kiss at the base of my neck.

  I shivered under his touch. “I’ll have to think about it.”

  He turned me in his arms, his mouth closing on mine with a soft growl. I loved the way his touch made me tremble. The taste of his breath, mingling with mine, instantly ignited a raging fire within me. His hand came up under my hair, holding my head as his lips parted mine and he deepened his kiss. His other arm came around me, grabbing my hip and pulling me against him. I gasped, feeling light-headed.

  “We’re not going to leave this room if you keep that up. You’re a terrible distraction,” I told him, putting my hands against his chest.

  “Terrible bad or terrible good?” His voice was hoarse.

  I felt my stomach tighten, the rush of hunger spreading through me quickly. I laughed shakily, shrugging.

  “You laugh now. Should I be insulted?”

  “No. It’s me. I just lose control around you.” I looked at him, my cheeks warm and a hitch in my breath.

  His hand came up to trace my face. “I hope you always do.” He kissed me very softly.

  My desire was tempered by the sweet contentment his words stirred.

  “I’ll try to behave.” He let his hands slide from my shoulders and stepped back.

  I smiled at him before zipping up my suitcase and surveying the room carefully. “I’m ready.” I extended the suitcase handle and pulled it behind me. We closed up the hotel room and entered the elevator.

  “Let me.” He took the suitcase handle in one hand, mine in his other. “I’m behaving, remember?”

  “You’re a true gentleman, Mr. Wiley.” I cocked an eyebrow at him and waited for the elevator doors to close before I whispered, “Not always, of course. I admit I like the not so gentlemanly Mr. Wiley, too. You’re very good at misbehaving.”

  His eyes darkened and his cheeks reddened. I’d surprised him. He grabbed me, pulling me to him. “You’re making me feel the need to misbehave, Claire.”

  My eyes grew wide as I innocently asked, “Me?”

  He shook his head, his eyes molten as he whispered, “I’ve never wanted to behave less like a gentleman than at this moment.” His lips were hungry on mine and I felt myself sway into his hold. His mouth was all the invitation I needed.

  I should have given in upstairs. I sincerely regretted that I hadn’t. I wrapped my arms around him, smiling as his hand tangled in my hair. His mouth found mine, his lips pulling and parting my lips. I clung to him.

  The elevator doors opened to reveal Josh and me in this passionate embrace.

  We were greeted by the blinding flash of cameras and the garbled voices of the throng of reporters crowding into the elevator doorway.

  Josh shook his head and cocked an eyebrow at me. “Sorry,” he whispered. He shot me a reluctant grin in attempt to reassure me. “Shall we go back up?”

  I wasn’t sure. Should we? But the damage was done now, obviously. I was still clinging to him, though it was more out of shock now. I shook my head. “No point now. Let’s just get out of here.”

  He slowly released me from his embrace and took my hand, pulling me behind him as much as possible. “Hold tight.”

  I was completely uncomfortable by the number of people staring at us. In the midst of the lobby, I saw the concierge arguing with some of the reporters. The older doorman was trying to corral the group back but wasn’t having much success.

  My eyes couldn’t focus, the continual flashes making me momentarily blind. I gave up on navigating on my own and concentrated on clinging to his hand. He moved confidently, guiding us through the throng. He looked back at me, winking. I felt a small answering smile cross my face. Was he actually enjoying this?

  Questions were yelled in our general direction. “Josh! Josh, is this your girlfriend?” “Are you the American? Aren’t you a divorcee?” “Miss Collins? You are Claire Collins?” “What does Fiona think?” “Who were those children at the park this morning, Josh? Were they yours?”

  Josh didn’t say anything as he led us to the back of the lobby. Security intervened finally, keeping the throng of reporters from following us down a long and winding hallway and through a secure door. Our car was blessedly waiting for us. Josh handed the bag to the valet and closed me into the passenger side.

  He inspected me when he climbed into the car. “You all right, Claire?”

  “I think so.”

  “You did well. You even smiled a bit. You’ll be a pro at this in no time.” He was smiling as he added, “I suppose we’ve now gone public, then?” He started the car and pulled away from the hotel. He looked at me, his crinkling smile never failing to knock me for a loop.

  I shot him a look. “Possibly,” I murmured. I wasn’t sure this was a good thing.

  He grabbed my hand and kissed my palm. “Possibly?” He laughed then regarded me. His face grew concerned. “Is that okay?”

  I let my hand caress his cheek, tracing his jaw leisurely. “It might be a little late to ask that question.”

  His smile faltered a bit. “Claire.” He took my hand in his.

  “It’s fine. No, it’s good.” I squeezed his hand, his face relaxing as I spoke. “Truly.”

  He squeezed my hand back, driving through the city streets without pause. “I’d like to show you something. It’s a bit of a detour, though. Do you mind?” His voice wavered, full of uncertainty.

  “No. I’ve no place I need to be. Lead the way.” I smiled at him.

  “We’re heading to Worcester Park. It’s a bit high brow, but the homes are big and the schools the best in the city.” He turned sharply, his eyes firmly on the road.

  I peered out the window. The light rain of the morning had vanished and the gray was parting to reveal blue skies and white puffy clouds. As we drove, the buildings began to change, too. There was a distinct feel of wealth as the buildings grew larger, older, cleaner, and well-maintained. There was still a sense of village life, but on a grander scale.

  “What are we looking for?” I asked.

  “It was once a vicarage. Hold on, it’s down the next street.”

  He turned left and slowed, his eyes narrowing as he pointed to a stone fence. “I believe that’s it.”

  I leaned forward. “Can’t see much of it from here.”


  He smiled brightly. “I know. Let’s take a look.” He turned the car, passed through the open gate and down the short drive. We pulled through the turn-around drive and parked in front of the house.

  The house was gorgeous. Obviously old, it held on to its history with its arched windows and gray stone exterior. It had high-pitched ceilings and a thatched roof with three different peaks, and the promise of a large garden beyond. The stone wall that had so delighted Josh encircled the entire property.

  Josh stepped out and came around to open my door.

  A tall man walked from the front door, a welcoming smile on his face. “Good morning, Mr. Wiley. Miss Collins.”

  I was beyond curious at this point. “Morning,” I murmured, turning a questioning eye on Josh.

  He was still assessing the house. “Thank you for meeting us on such short notice, Mr. Plumbley.”

  “It’s my sincere pleasure. It’s not often I have the opportunity to help a celebrity find a home in one of London’s finest boroughs. And with children, it’s understandable to want room to grow. This grand property provides plenty of room for everyone in the family.” Mr. Plumbley was leading us to the front door as he spoke. “There are numerous parks, one just beyond the back gate. The train station is three blocks down, away from town, while the market is the same heading into town. And the schools are excellent, as I mentioned on the phone.”

  Schools? I froze to stare at Josh. “Josh?”

  He was smiling. “Let’s have a look around, shall we?” His hand caught mine. “Please.”

  I sighed and followed him, curious in spite of myself. And it was easy to forget my irritation as we toured the home. Full of intricate details, the house was lovely. With its carved woodwork, built-in book casings that ran from floor to ceiling, fireplaces with antique knobs and hooks, and a truly magnificent updated kitchen, it was the kind of house that needed just the right family to fill it.

  The garden was stunning, half the size of a football field, half of that covered with blooming fruit trees and berries.

  “The detached guest house is there.” Mr. Plumbley pointed to a small cottage in the back corner of the garden. “It’s been completely refinished.”