Darkest Fears Trilogy: Fallen For Him / Freed By Him / Forever With Him

by Clair Delaney

  “Who knows what could happen?” I whisper seductively. I lean forward, peck his cheek, then sit back to look at him. His eyes are dark and tempting, his look heated. He swallows hard, shifts slightly in his seat, pulls his newspaper down so it’s hiding his hand, and readjusts his man bits.

  Oh yeah! That worked.

  I innocently bat my lashes at him. “So will you take me?” I whisper shyly.

  Tristan clears his throat, lifts his hand and places it behind my neck, then he slowly pulls me down towards his face, stopping right before our lips meet. “You are one hell of a negotiator,” he breathes, his eyes boring into me.

  “Do we have a deal?” I whisper gazing at his wide, dark chocolate eyes.

  “Oh baby, you know I’m going to say yes to that. Besides, I can keep an eye on you at work, but be warned, if I think you look tired I’m sending you home.” He tells me firmly.

  “Yes boss,” I giggle.

  He narrows his eyes at me. “Frustrating woman!” He hisses.

  “Kiss me,” I challenge. Tristan glances at the other passengers, then quickly pecks me on the lips. Releasing his hand from my neck, I sit back in my seat feeling triumphant.

  “I’m presuming you won’t go back until Monday?” He says petulantly.

  “Monday sounds good. Shall we go shopping Sunday?”

  “The day after the Wedding?” He says incredulously.

  “Yes, I think it’ll be fun. Just think what we could get up to in the changing rooms.” I say, grinning broadly. Just think of the possibilities!

  His mouth pops open. “I don't think so Coral,” he retorts, knowing my meaning.

  “Why not?” I moan.

  He leans into me. “Because they have cameras – and besides, the last thing in the world I want is for anyone to see my wife in the throes of passion.” I shiver internally, all humour gone – No, definitely not if they have cameras. Tristan grasps my hand in his. “You ok?” I nod once. He squeezes my hand again. “Let’s go shopping tomorrow,” he adds.

  “Tomorrow?” I look up at him. “But you’re working?”

  “Yes, I am. I can spare a couple of hours at lunchtime though, besides, I’ve made plans Sunday,” he says in his authoritative voice, trying to hide a smile.

  “You have?” I squeak, wondering what he’s got planned.

  “Yes.” Tristan turns and grins widely at me. “My wedding present to you,” he softly adds.

  Oh...holy mother of God...Crap, crap, triple Crapiola!

  “What?” He asks, registering the horror on my face.

  “You...you’ve got me a wedding present?” I squeak, feeling mortified.

  I haven’t got Tristan a wedding present? What kind of a fiancé does that make me? Tristan throws his paper into the chair next to him, reaches over, lifts me up, and sits me in his lap.

  “What are you looking so upset about?” He asks, holding his hand against my cheek so I can't look away. Crap!

  Tears pool in my eyes – I am a horrid person, who does not deserve him.

  “Hey,” Tristan softly says. “There’s no need for tears.” I sniff loudly, and stare down at my twisted fingers. “Coral, please tell me what you’re upset about,” he says, his voice tender and full of love.

  “I...I haven’t got you a wedding present,” I squeak, keeping my eyes downcast. “What does that say about me?” I croak, swiping at the stupid tears rolling down my cheeks. Tristan chuckles, my eyes dart up to meet his. “You think it’s funny?” I sniff.

  “Coral, it’s the last thing in the world I was expecting – especially with what you’ve been through,” he softly says, tenderly stroking my cheek.

  “But you’ve got me one!” I squeak a little high pitched.

  Tristan chuckles again. “Yes, but I...” He stops, and looks down at my hands that are anxiously pressed together, he lifts them up, brings them to his lips and kisses them several times. “I don't need a wedding present baby,” he says.

  “You don't?” I whisper.

  “Coral, you’re everything I’ve ever wanted, so you kind of are my wedding present.” My mouth gapes open.

  “Oh Tristan,” I mewl, wrapping my arms around his neck and cradling my head under his chin, not giving a damn who’s in the room with us.

  “Can't wait to open you up,” he adds in his sexy, husky voice.

  I gasp and look up at him, all tears gone. “Tristan Freeman, you have a very dirty mind!” I retort, trying not to laugh, and failing badly.

  Tristan laughs too, and pulls me forward so he can gently kiss my forehead...

  WE ARE TRAVELLING BACK TO THE HOUSE IN THE JAG. I take a deep breath in and slowly blow it out. It’s done, I have said goodbye to my mother, laid her to rest. When Stuart collected us from the airport, he had her belongings sitting on the back seat for me, so as we drove back to Brighton, I looked through them and decided on the items to bury.

  A photograph of me as a baby in her arms, my father beside her, they both looked so happy. And a photograph of Kelly too, she was older, a couple of years maybe, as she sat on my mother’s lap, her father, I’m presuming stood behind them both. It was a very strange experience, but at least I feel as though I can move on now. Focus on the future, on the life I am going to have with Tristan.

  It still feels weird being back though, back in Brighton, back to reality.

  On the one hand, I am beyond excited to be marrying Tristan, and I’m looking forward to seeing my friends and family again, but on the other hand, I feel quite sombre. I still haven’t decided what to do with my studio, which reminds me, I need to unpack all my stuff – and I still have no job, even though I’ll be at Chester House while I search for a new one.

  All the problems that were here, are still here.

  There’s a dark part of me, an old part that wants to run away, back to Cornwall, but I know I can't do that. But more than anything else, I’m feeling melancholy because I now have to share Tristan – our little bubble has been burst, and I want it back, so badly.

  “Hey,” Tristan says, squeezing my hand as Stuart pulls up outside the house. “Everything ok?”

  I turn and put on my best fake smile. “Sure,” I say. That did not sound convincing.

  “Shall I take the bags inside sir?” Stuart asks.

  Tristan nods to him, but keeps his eyes firmly locked with mine. “You didn’t cry,” he says, softly stroking my cheek.

  To be fair, I’m surprised I didn’t as I stood at my mother’s would be grave and lay the photographs down, then planted the tree. Tristan held my hand as I said my silent goodbyes, he’s been so good with me, so supportive – Maybe it just needs time to catch up with me?

  “I think it’s because I feel relieved more than anything else,” I say.

  “You’re so brave,” he says, squeezing my hand again.

  I shake my head and stare out the window at the house.

  Tristan sighs. “What is it Coral?” I shrug. “Holiday blues?” Tristan asks again.

  “No Tristan it’s not,” I tell him firmly.

  Tristan unclips his seatbelt. I feel him slide across the seat to me. Reaching up, he cups his fingers under my chin and turns my head to face him. “Tell me,” he demands, his tone sharp.

  I sigh heavily. “Just...back to reality I guess,” I say trying not to frown. I really don't want to tell him how much I’m going to miss him today, how desperately empty I already feel, and he hasn’t even left yet.

  Tristan swallows hard. “Are you having second thoughts?” He says, his voice almost a whisper.

  I frown at him.“Second thoughts about what?”

  “Marrying me,” he says, his voice solemn.

  My eyes widen as I stare back at him. “No Tristan, no second thoughts. My feet are toasty warm, how about yours?” I ask.

  “On fire, and no – no second thoughts. I’ve been waiting to marry you all my life,” he tells me, “I just hadn’t found you yet.” And I melt – He really does say the sweetest things.

>   I smile a genuine smile. “Sorry,” I say, reaching up to caress his beautiful face. “I just know how much I’m going to miss you today, that’s all.”

  Tristan sags with relief. “Me too,” he says leaning in to kiss me. “Let’s get inside, you look tired,” he adds. I feel tired!

  I’ve been taking a morning and afternoon nap everyday for the past nine days, and I feel like I need one. I look down at my watch, it’s 11.15am – Rob won't be here until twelve to collect me, I guess I have time.

  “Ok,” I smile sweetly at him and peck him on the lips.

  Tristan jumps out the car and comes round to my side. Opening the door, he gives me his hand – I so love that about him. I place my hand in his and step out into the morning sunshine.

  “Dr Green has called,” he says. “She wants to see you on Monday.”

  “Ok,” I sigh. Tristan squeezes my hand and we head through the open door.

  Edith is in the kitchen, ready to greet us both. I smile warmly at her as we walk over.

  “Well hello you two,” she says. “You both look so well, did you have a good time?” She asks, directing her question at us both.

  “Edith, we had a fantastic time, thank you.” Tristan says, grinning widely.

  I smile up at Tristan, and squeeze his hand. We had more than a fantastic time, we had a very eye opening, sexy sex time, that’s what we had. Tristan gazes down at me and winks, I swear he’s reading my thoughts right now.

  “Well it’s good to have you both back,” Edith says.

  “Thanks Edith,” I say, smiling fondly at her.

  “Can I get you anything?” She asks, looking from me to Tristan.

  “Coral’s tired, so she’s going to take a nap, but I’m famished. Can you rustle me up a quick sandwich before I head into the office?” Tristan asks.

  I smile and roll my eyes at him – Where does he put it all?

  “Of course,” Edith replies, and busies herself in the kitchen.

  “Tristan, stay and eat. I’ll see you tonight,” I tell him. I don't want a long goodbye, I think my heart may crack in two.

  “I’ll be back in a second,” he tells Edith, and completely ignoring me, he tugs on my hand and heads towards the stairs.

  We head up the stairs, hand in hand, and I realise this is the first time since I came out of hospital that Tristan hasn’t carried me up or down these stairs. Wow, what a difference, I really do feel so much better. Maybe we should have a honeymoon? Reaching our bedroom, Tristan opens the door and gestures for me to go first.

  I walk in and spy our big bed. Hmm...

  Taking me by surprise, Tristan lifts me up into his arms, lays me down on the bed, and snuggles up next to me. “Thank you my gorgeous, sexy girl for the best holiday I’ve ever had.” He says, his eyes glowing with sincerity, his knuckles skimming my cheek as he hovers over me.

  I grin broadly at him. “The best?” I tease.

  He nods, then smiles his shy smile.

  “Wait till our honeymoon,” I say, even though we haven’t booked it.

  His cheeks flush. “Looking forward to it Miss Stevens, but may I remind you we haven’t booked anything yet?” He says, spookily reading me.

  “I know, but now I’ve healed so much, I think we should,” I say.

  Tristan looks a little worried. “You want to go away next week?”

  “No baby, I know you need to catch up with work. Maybe sometime after Gladys’s wedding?” I suggest.

  “Ok.” He smiles. “Where would you like to go?” He asks.

  I start giggling. “Tristan, I have no idea...why don't you surprise me,” I suggest.

  “You’re sure?” He asks.

  “Absolutely positive,” I say, trying to stifle a yawn. Tristan suddenly looks serious again. He takes my face between his hands, staring intently at me, then leans down and softly meets my lips. “Mmm...” I murmur, he tastes so good.

  “I’m so in love with you Coral,” he croaks in his low, sexy voice, kissing my lips, my cheek and finally my forehead. “I’m a very lucky man.” I smile goofily at him. He kisses me once more on the lips. “I’ll miss you today. It’s going to feel very strange not being with you,” he adds.

  “I know,” I whisper, trying not to think about it. “But you’ll be back for tea, right?” I add, slightly panicked.

  “Yes baby, I promise.” I yawn again. “Come on, get some sleep.” He strokes my hair, and begins humming our song, my song as his fingers stroke my forehead, and softly run through my hair. Mmm...Some Enchanted Evening – And I drift....

  I HAVE HAD THE MOST WONDERFUL AFTERNOON. It’s beengreat seeing Rob and Carlos again, and Bob is in great shape too, so I feel much more relaxed now. We ate lunch at Hotel Seattle, it has a wonderful decking area that looks right over the Marina. Then Carlos took Bob back to his studio, so they could play another game of checkers, while Rob and I went off to the supermarket to get him some decent food.

  However, it turns out that since Susannah’s attack on Bob I’m not the only one who’s concerned about him. I have found out Bob’s been back in his studio for four days, that Carlos has been to see him every day and taken him out for lunch, that he’s dined at Gladys’s twice, and Joyce took him out for tea last night. He seems in good spirits, and I’m grateful that my family and friends have been taking care of him while I’ve been away.

  “Hey Bob?” I say as Rob and I put away his fresh groceries. “You thought anymore about my offer?”

  “What offer?” Rob pipes up.

  “Nothing to do with you Delgado!” I tease. Rob smirks at me, then sticks his nose up in the air as though he’s not bothered, it makes me giggle.

  “Yes, I have.” Bob says.

  “And?” I prompt, as I join him on the sundeck – Looks like he’s beaten Carlos at checkers, again!

  “It’s not for me darling, I like being here,” he says, gazing out at the view – Yeah, I get that, it’s pretty awesome. “Doesn’t mean I don't appreciate the offer though,” he adds.

  I reach over and squeeze his hand. “You’re sure?” I question.

  “Positive,” he tells me.

  “Ok.” I sigh inwardly, I hope he’s telling the truth and not just saying that because he thinks he’ll be a burden. I shall ask Tristan to talk to him, just to make sure.

  “Well, we better get going,” Rob says. He’s got a client later, and he hates being late, plus, Tristan made him promise he’d get me home safely.

  However I have an ulterior motive, a plan. I know Tristan won't like it, but after saying my goodbye’s to my mother, and feeling relieved because of it, I feel like I really need to get this over and done with too. I want a clean slate. I want to be able to marry Tristan without anything hanging over my head, my decision on the beach includes this too – I need a fresh start!

  “I want to stay,” I say, looking up at him. “You and Carlos go, I’ll be fine.”

  “Coral!” Rob bites. “Do you want Tristan and I to get on?” he says, his hands on his hips.

  “Of course I do,” I choke.

  “Then why are you doing this? He’s going to bite my head off if he finds out I didn’t get you home!” I roll my eyes at him, pull out my mobile and call Tristan, it’s answered on the second ring.

  “Hey baby.” He sounds busy.

  “Just wanted to let you know Rob is leaving but I’m staying on with Bob for a while, I’ll get a taxi back later.”

  “Don't do that Coral, just call Stuart and he’ll come and pick you up.”

  “Ok.” I walk away from everyone so they can't hear me. “I know you’re busy, but want to tell you how much I’m missing you. I hope you haven’t made any plans for tonight.” I whisper.

  “Why?” Tristan asks, I can tell he’s smiling.

  “Because I plan on having my wicked way with you,” I whisper.

  “I’ll hold you to that,” he growls sexily. “Baby, gotta go.”

  “Ok, bye!” I squeak and hang up. I don't want to be the g
irlfriend – no wife – that constantly bugs him at work. I walk back over to Rob and smile smugly at him. “See, there’s no problem,” I say.

  “Evidently,” Rob snorts – I bob my tongue out at him. He chuckles at me then he and Carlos get up to leave. I hug them both, hard.

  “See you both tomorrow then,” I say. Pre-wedding checks apparently.

  “Nervous?” Rob asks as he hugs me.

  “No, not at all,” I softly say.

  He pulls back and assesses me. “Oh god! Look at the dreamy loved up look in her eyes Carlos, it’s sickening!” He teases.

  “Hey!” I scowl at Rob. Carlos pulls me in for a hug. “Ignore him, he’s just jealous!” he sniggers, making me chuckle. Rob pouts at us. I wave to them both as they head down the concourse.

  “Hey Bob,” I say, sitting next to him. “I wanted to ask you something,” I add, feeling nervous.

  “You can ask me anything,” Bob says sweetly.

  I take a deep breath, I hope he says yes. “Well, I wanted to ask...will you give me away on Saturday?” I swallow hard, and wait for his answer.

  “Oh Coral,” Bob chokes then grabbing my hand, he squeezes it tight. “Nothing would give me greater pleasure darling.”

  I blink back the tears that have pooled in my eyes. “Thanks,” I croak.

  “Coral, I’m sure it’s not something you want to talk about, but I wanted to say, I’m so sorry about your mother. Carlos told me all about it while you were away.”

  “Oh,” I whisper, feeling surprised.

  “Can I ask you something?” Bob says.

  “Of course,” I whisper, my heart speeding up.

  “Well, it’s a bit delicate,” he says, hesitant.

  “It’s ok Bob, you can ask me,” I tell him, trying to ease his discomfort.

  “You’re adopted,” he states, I nod once. “Is...is your father still alive?” I nod once more. “Are you in contact with him? I only ask because of what you’ve just asked of me,” he says, his voice soft.

  “No, I don't see him Bob...he...well he left when I was four. I haven’t seen him since,” I whisper, remembering the sound of his voice when I recently spoke to him, how it called to me on a such a deep level – I didn’t think that would happen, it’s been so long.