Chapter 16

Sweet Sixteen

Mum peeked around the lounge door and saw her daughter and Wes holding each other and crying together. Her heart went out to both of them, but especially to Hally. She wanted to go in and offer her own comfort but knew at that moment it would not be appreciated. No, Hally would come to her when she was ready so instead she soundlessly closed the door and went back to her husband in the kitchen. Nathan was playing in the garden so she was able to speak openly.

“They are both crying. Oh Colin I hope they get through this.”

Colin pulled his wife onto his lap and nuzzled her neck.

“Darling we can only be there whatever happens. You know Hally, she will deal with this in her own sweet way and so far (he crossed his fingers) she has made good decisions.”

May kissed him and nodded in agreement, but it didn’t ease the icy grip of fear that had taken hold of her heart.

“She’s so young. I mean I know she’s going to be sixteen very soon, and I know I was already very in love with you at that age…but”

Colin tickled her ribs and she giggled.

“You were? I didn’t think you fancied me that much.”

He said with a pout.

“Oh well, you know I had to keep you on your toes.”

She told him with a cheeky smile. He tickled her again and then hugged her tightly.

“May Mackeller, you…”

Together they laughed and hugged until Nathan came into the kitchen asking for a drink. As mum was pouring juice for her son dad said.

“Talking of her birthday have you had any thoughts on what we are going to do?”

“Well I was thinking about hiring the community centre and having a party, but with all this I don’t know.”

She replied. Nathan gulped his juice and asked innocently.

“All what?”

Dad ruffled his hair and smiled.

“Nothing for you to worry about little one.”

Nathan ducked away from his father.

“I’m not little, I’m nearly nine.”

He stated indignantly. Mum and dad smiled at each other and mum said reassuringly.

“I know sweetheart, it’s just you will always been our little one (Nathan went to protest) as is Hally.”

She told him. This seemed to satisfy him and he finished his drink and dived back outside. Mum and dad laughed happy that their youngest child’s life was still so simple.

In the lounge Hally and Wes still clung to each other as their sobs began to subside. This time they shared the box of tissues dabbing at their cheeks without speaking. Wes’ dropped sandwich still lay on the carpet, the edges of the bread just beginning to curl. The remaining sandwiches sat undisturbed on the tray. Neither of them spoke or moved, they just sat silently sharing their hurt and distress. Hally glanced up at Wes and saw he had done the same to her, but rapidly averted his eyes when he saw her looking. She gave the tiniest of smiles and nudged him with her knee.

“Do you want any more to eat?”

She asked tentatively. Wes looked down at the discarded sandwich.

“First I think I’d better pick that up or your mum’s going to kill me. Then I think I’d better eat some more after the effort she went to making them.”

Hally smiled more brightly.

“Yeah, me too.”

They leaned forward at the same time to pick up the sandwich and the plate and their heads came together with a bump.

“Ouch!”

Hally exclaimed putting her hand to her head.

“Ouch too!”

Wes said but instead of rubbing his own head he reached out and gently rubbed her bump. Hally leaned toward him and he kissed her full on the lips. She responded by kissing him back and everything magically vanished in that one moment. His kiss captivated her and she knew somehow they would get through this. She wanted that more than anything; knew it wouldn’t be easy, knew there would be difficult times ahead. But knew that she didn’t want to lose him, that right now even with all he had told her, her life would be much better with him in it.

As the kiss ended Wes leaned back and looked at her. His eyes were bright with unshed tears, but he looked a whole lot happier. Hally felt his happiness and it spread through her giving her happiness too. Wes cupped her face in his hands and smiled at her his face lighting up when she smiled back. He lifted a few tendrils of hair from her cheek that were damp from her tears and tucked them behind her ear. It was such a small act but one that sent shivers of delight down her spine. She pressed her own hands against his and kissed the inside of one palm. Afraid to disrupt this quiet peaceful time between them but knowing he still had the final part of his story to tell Wes whispered.

“Hally, are you ready to hear the last of it?”

She wasn’t ready, all she wanted was this moment to go on and on, but she knew she had to let him finish. She still held his hands against her face but nodded. So gently rubbing her cheeks with his thumbs and in a soft voice concluded his secret.

“Well it took some time to organise, especially selling the house and so by the time we were ready to move I had finished my re-sits and passed. We sat with Mr Hopkins and told him why we were moving and what my academic situation was and he was great, happy to have me if I didn’t mind being a year older than the others. I was just glad to have the chance to finish my A levels. So just after Easter we moved here and I found the job at the café so I could help mum and dad with the financial side of bringing up Ellie too. Mum looked into doing some accounting work from home and it all worked out well. I didn’t have to start school until September, Ellie was happy and secure and I met you.”

Wes paused and looked at Hally. He stopped rubbing her cheeks and kissed them instead, ever so lightly. Hally closed her eyes, enjoying his touch. She stayed that way letting his words wash over her. She knew she loved him and at that moment she just wanted to say it out loud, but she still didn’t really know how he felt. He’d said he had fallen for her, but did that mean the same thing as being in love with her. Right then, she couldn’t trust her own judgement to know and if she disclosed her love for him and he didn’t feel the same, well it would destroy her. She opened her eyes and Wes carried on speaking.

“At first I was very afraid to get close, especially because you were so much younger than me. But I soon found out that I couldn’t control my feelings, actually it was pretty much straight after I met you. I wanted so much for you to know about Ellie, but I thought you would run a mile. I was torn between the risk of telling you the truth and you leaving me or keeping it from you. To begin with, mum said it was best not to say anything, but she quickly realised what you meant to me and we talked loads of times about telling you. I was all geared up for it that first time you met them, then I chickened out. Mum wasn’t pleased about that, but she stuck by my decision.”

Wes took his hands from her face and put them on her shoulders.

“You see Hally, I knew almost from the start. I love you.”

Hally’s eyes popped open. At first she thought she had imagined his words having thought so hard about him saying exactly that. But the look he was giving her told her she had actually heard him say it, he loved her. A huge beaming smile spread across her face, she had to hear him say it again, just to be sure it wasn’t her imagination.

“What did you say?”

She asked, her voice unsteady. Wes looked into her eyes and without hesitation said again.

“Hally I love you.”

Hally wrapped her arms around his neck and held him tightly. Nervously and feeling heat rising in her face she whispered in his ear.

“I love you too Wes.”

He held her, instinctively knowing she was blushing and not wanting to make it worse for her by making her look at him.

“Phew, I’m so very pleased to hear you say that babe.”

He told her.

After a few minutes of just holding each other Hally sat back and looked at him. Things had changed again, now she knew for sure he loved her and she loved him, she didn’t believe knowing about Ellie was going to be as big a problem as she had thought. She knew him having a child would have an effect on their relationship because now she would have to get to know Ellie in a different way. A sudden little jab of panic coursed through her, what if Ellie didn’t like that she was with her father? She pushed it aside, wouldn’t even contemplate a problem of such magnitude. After all, Ellie had always known who Wes was and hadn’t reacted badly when Hally had been there with him. No, she wouldn’t create problems where there were none.

Wes’ phone chirped and Hally jumped. He grabbed it and answered it, mouthing silently one word to Hally ‘Mum’. He listened intently, first a little frown creasing his brow then a wide smile breaking out on his face. Hally realised it must mean that Ellie was a lot better. She felt quite guilty now that all the time Wes had been telling her about Ellie she hadn’t thought about the toddler’s condition. She should have, and she should have made sure Wes had contacted his parents to check in on his daughter. She sat back feeling wretched, she had no idea about bringing a young child up and the heavy responsibility that came with it. Wes finished on the phone and turned to her, his smile disappearing when he saw her face.

“Hally what’s wrong?”

“Oh Wes you must think I’m just a selfish cow.”

She mumbled. He looked totally confused.

“Hally why on earth would I think that?”

“Because all day you have been here pouring out your deepest and most important secret, and not once did I tell you to phone your parents about Ellie.”

She turned her head down and away from him, not able to look in his eyes. She was sure all she would see in them would be disdain. Wes took her chin and lifted her face to his. He smiled his usual loving warm smile.

“Hally, I told my parents I was going to explain everything. That it would probably take a long time. Ellie was safe, they were with her and the doctors told me she was completely stable and in no danger. Mum only phoned me to let me know they are discharging her this afternoon so to call them before I head to the hospital in case they’ve already gone.”

“Really?”

Hally asked in a small voice.

“Yes really.”

Wes replied planting a kiss on the end of her nose. Hally giggled then said in a serious tone.

“Wes I’m ok honestly, but I think perhaps you should go to the hospital now, You know, be with her when they let her go home. She’s probably quite scared even with your mum and dad there, she probably just wants her… daddy.”

The last word gave her pause as she said it.

“Hally are you sure? What if you come too?”

Hally shook her head.

“No, I should stay here. I mean mum and dad are going to need to know what’s been going on and I have to speak to Corrinne and Clia too, they’re probably worried sick about me.”

Wes looked worried himself.

“We are alright aren’t we Hally?”

She smiled at him and kissed him gently on the lips.

“We are more than alright Wes. I just want you to get Ellie home and I really do need to speak to my parents and the girls. I have to tell them, we never keep things from each other.”

The look Wes gave her was full of pain.

“Oh God, Wes I didn’t mean it like that. I just meant we have always told each other everything and I…well…that can’t change. Do you get what I’m saying?”

Wes nodded.

“It’s ok Hally, I know you didn’t mean it to sound the way I took it. It’s my fault, I’m the one who has been keeping secrets. Yes of course you must tell them and Gregg and Rhys too, they should know as well. This has been kept quiet for far too long. I suppose when I was a young teenager it was probably the best way, but now, well I should just be proud that I have a little girl.”

Hally and Wes tidied the lounge and carried a tray each through to the kitchen. Dad was in the garden with Nathan and mum was tackling a pile of ironing. She looked up as they came in but didn’t ask any questions. She knew her daughter would divulge all in her own time.

“Wes is off to the hospital. Ellie is being discharged a bit later.”

Hally told her mum putting down the tray and taking the other from Wes.

“Oh she’s alright. That’s very good news.”

Mum replied with a genuine smile. Wes smiled back and at the door kissed Hally.

“Can I see you tonight?”

Hally nodded.

“Call me when you want to come over.”

Mum called dad in from the garden and Nathan stomped in behind him sulkily. Dad explained that Nathan was moody because they had been playing football and now he had no one to kick the ball to. Mum took her son and lifted him into her arms. She hugged him and he tried to resist at first but she persisted, gently tickling his ribs and making him wriggle. Soon he accepted the attention, putting his little grubby hands around her face and giggling with her.

“How about we load ‘Crewman’s Space Adventure’ into the DVD player and I make you some popcorn. We need to have a chat with Hally. Will you be a good boy and watch it quietly?”

Mum asked swaying him gently. Nathan beamed.

“Yes please.”

Was his answer, so dad took him into the lounge whilst mum placed a pack of popcorn into the microwave.

Hally sat at the kitchen table with her parents, tea and biscuits in front of them. Nathan was settled in front of the television watching a very exciting space adventure film and mum had added a chocolate bar and glass of lemonade to go with his bowl of popcorn. Hally looked at her parents, both giving her concerned looks back. She smiled at them and said.

“I’m alright honestly. Wes has told me everything and yes it’s a lot to take in and I’m still shaken up about it all. But well, he went through a really horrible time and so did his parents. He was actually thirteen when he first met Ellie’s mother.”

Dad raised his eyebrows and mum took Hally’s hand and leaned towards her, her other hand wrapped around a mug of tea.

“Ok baby, we’re listening. Tell us everything right from the beginning.”

Mum said gently. So Hally took a sip from her tea and began to retell Wes’ story.

It took a lot less time telling her parents about Ellie than it had for Wes to tell her. She told it as closely to how Wes had, not wanting to edit a great chunk of his life in any way. At first she hesitated a little, but after a few more sips of tea; the words came easily and as usual she was comfortable telling her parents even though it was a very sensitive issue. When she finished dad sat back and simply said.

“Crikey. The poor lad.”

Hally felt as though an extremely heavy backpack had been lifted from her shoulders. Although she hadn’t said, or shown it, she had been terrified that her father would not accept any explanation Wes gave her. Now his words reassured her that her dad would not sit in judgement of Wes and so make it difficult for them to carry on with their relationship. Mum stood and refilled the kettle. As she turned from the sink to put it back on its stand she said.

“Do you really think you can cope with this Hally?”

It was said gently and only with concern, not in a way that questioned Hally’s maturity or decisions about Wes. Hally smiled sweetly to her mum.

“I think so. But then who knows? I mean I can only say that I want to try and I know it’s not going to be easy. But well, if I give up on Wes now because of this I’ll never know if we could make a go of it. I know I’m just coming up sixteen and that’s really too young to be thinking about the future, but….(she began to blush but held on to her resolve) well I do love him…and…he told me he loves me.”

Mum came over and put her hands on Hally’s shoulders. Dad leaned forward and with his elbows resting on the table he linked his fingers together. He glanced up at his wife and she knew that he was thinking about her words to him, sixteen wasn’t such a young age to be in love. It was just that these days, it did seem very young, teenagers had so many more opportunities for their future, so many things they could do with their lives before settling down and having a family. Yet here was their daughter, not quite sixteen but willing to stay with her boyfriend and be part of his ready made family. Hally could feel the exchange of silent words between her parents and began to worry. Were they going to try and put the breaks on between her and Wes? Dad put his clasped hands to his lips and sighed, then he looked at Hally and spoke.

“Tink, yes you are still very young, we have always tried to encourage you to make your own decisions and we think we’ve done a pretty good job of bringing you up because you take our advice and use it to help you.”

He paused and Hally thought, here it comes. Then he carried on.

“We think you know what you want to do about this and that’s fine with us. Just please try and not let it take over your life. I mean your exams are coming up and you have said you want to go on to college instead of sixth form, it would be good if you still did that. I mean whatever you choose we will be behind you…”

Dad unusually found it hard to say what was on his mind and Hally felt a little sad that she was the cause of it. Mum was still standing holding her shoulders and she leaned forward a little.

“What your dad is trying to say…”

Hally put her cheek on her mum’s hand and spoke before she could finish.

“Mum, I know what dad is trying to say.”

She leaned forward and put her own hands out to her dad. He covered her small ones with his large.

“Daddy, I do love Wes, but I am going to stick to my plans for when school finishes. Me and the girls were chatting about this a while ago, I think we will all go to college together; and just because I know who Ellie is now is not going to make me change my mind. I would never do anything without asking you and mum first about it, I might be nearly sixteen, but I’m not yet ready to take on the world on my own.”

Dad smiled and kissed her hands softly. Mum gave her a big hug and then turned to make more hot drinks.

A little later and by herself in her room, Hally looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her hair was all over the place. She hadn’t dried it after her shower and with all the holding each other and crying it had dried in all directions. She took her comb and found her hair was quite tangled in some places, so holding parts of it she gently teased out the knots until it was smooth and shiny even though some bits still stuck out. She smiled to herself laying the comb down and spoke out loud.

“Well you’re not going to make that look any better unless you re-wash it.”

She giggled at her reflection. Then she reached for her phone and tapped in a quick message for Corrinne and Clia.

could you come round now ive got so much to tell you

Only a minute went by before she received a message back from Corrinne telling her they would be straight over and she guessed that meant they were both together. She smiled again grateful that she had such wonderful friends.

Hally was still in her room when the girls arrived and they both came in looking very worried. Corrinne immediately pulled out of her large bag a box from the bakery which had three cream cakes in it. She then took out a bag of chocolate chip cookies and a packet of chocolate covered sweets. Hally laughed.

“What’s all this for?”

“Well something is obviously going on between you and Wes so we thought treats were essential.”

Corrinne stated. Hally smiled again, suddenly uncertain of how to begin. She took a deep breath and said.

“ Phew…going on is an understatement. You are not going to believe what I have to tell you. In fact, I think I’d better go and get us some cola ‘cos this is going to take some time.”

Both Corrinne and Clia frowned but didn’t ask anything as Hally trotted downstairs to get the drinks. She came back quickly and all three settled on Hally’s bed, where she again relayed Wes’ story.

Corrinne and Clia listened intently without speaking or asking questions. She could see the shock in their eyes, sometimes anger at the callousness of Sophie’s acts and the pain they felt knowing she had been so hurt by it all. Finally, the cream cakes eaten, some of the cookies but the sweets untouched Hally finished with.

“So, that’s it. Wes is a dad.”

Clia as ever was the first to speak.

“So Hally do you really think everything will still be ok between you and Wes? I mean it’s a lot to take on.”

Hally wasn’t at all cross with her friend’s question. She knew Clia was only thinking about her. So she patted her hand and replied.

“Actually I really have no idea, but I really do want it to be and after he said he loves me, well I think he means it. And like I said, I don’t think I have to worry about Ellie, it’s not like I’m going to take him away from her.”

She tried to inject as much confidence into her words as she could but the look her friends were giving her told her she hadn’t been entirely successful. However, Corrinne tried to bolster her up with.

“I think it will all work out just right. You and Wes have something special, we can all see that.”

Hally smiled, accepting Corrinne’s words as a talisman to her future happiness.

For the rest of the afternoon the girls chatted about Wes, about Ellie and about how Corrinne and Clia were getting on with their own boyfriends. Hally had told them that Wes wanted the boys to know about Ellie and they agreed to explain it all to them. This was a relief to Hally as she didn’t think she wanted to have to go through the whole tale again; even though she knew it wasn’t her responsibility and Wes would willingly do it himself, she felt better that the girls would speak to Rhys and Gregg for them both.

“But that Sophie sounds like one of the plastics in Dana’s old gang.”

Clia said.

“Yeah, she would have fitted in very well.”

Corrinne replied, but Hally frowned and shook her head.

“Actually I don’t think she would.”

Both Corrinne and Clia looked at her with perplexed expressions. So she carried on.

“Well Dana was the leader of the whole group and from how Wes has described Sophie she would never have been satisfied being one of Dana’s minions. Sounds like she had to be the centre of attention all of the time. You know the sort, look at me, look at me (her voice high pitched and squeaky making Corrinne and Clia laugh). So no I don’t think she would have fit in at all. Dana and her lot were definitely plastics, well even without Dana they still are; but this Sophie just sounds like a spoilt little cow that took everyone in.”

She finished with a little shrug and Corrinne and Clia both nodded in agreement.

Mum came up and asked Corrinne and Clia if they wanted to stay for dinner and Hally was very pleased when they accepted. She very much wanted to keep her friends close to her as she didn’t want to be alone with her thoughts. For even though she kept telling herself that things were going to be fine, in the back of her mind she had doubts. She doubted Wes’ words of love and kept wondering if he had only said it to appease her. She didn’t doubt her own feelings at all and wondered how she could handle such a big feeling, not wanting it to consume her and again wondering how a person could be so happy but sad at the same time. All of this flew through her mind at a rate she couldn’t measure but could at least push into a corner whilst she had people around her to distract her.

Hally, Corrinne and Clia came downstairs and into the lounge where Nathan had a pile of toys on the floor recreating the film he had watched earlier. Hally knelt down next to him and felt so much joy from her little brother’s happy play. She picked up the character toy she had given him for Christmas and Nathan turned to her.

“Oh no Hally. He’s hiding in a special place on planet Zipto waiting for Gripper ‘cos he’s gonna stop him from taking the Zipto people’s stuff.”

Hally quickly apologised and replaced the toy exactly where it had been and then standing up moved over to the sofa where Corrinne and Clia already sat.

“Whoops nearly destroyed Zipto then.”

Clia said to Hally with a grin. Hally raised her eyebrows to her friend and stifled a giggle. For a while the three girls partly watched television and partly watched Nathan play; reminding Hally of when Wes, Rhys and Gregg all sat on the floor playing with him.

The family sat in the kitchen with Corrinne and Clia and tucked into a delicious dinner. Hally had spent many hours cooking with mum but was still in awe of how she managed to put together meals that were always varied, healthy and tasty. As they ate they chatted about various topics, Nathan’s football to which he joined in enthusiastically, and a funny incident mum and dad had encountered in the supermarket. There was no talk about Wes’ daughter or the secret he had kept for so long and Hally was grateful for this.

“So Tink, what do you want to do for your birthday this year?”

Hally swallowed a piece of potato and raised her eyes to the ceiling mulling over the question. After a bit of thought she said.

“Well, I think I would like a barbeque with just family and close friends.”

Mum looked at her daughter.

“You don’t want a party then, it is your sixteenth?”

Before Hally replied dad chipped in with.

“Your mum thought about hiring the community centre.”

Hally smiled brightly at her mother.

“That’s such a lovely thing to think of, thank you, but well, I just don’t really want such a big event. I mean last year was terrific here at home, but we all remember what happened there, and this year what with Gran not being here (there was a slight catch in her voice) I think it would be a lot more special with just a few of us. That way granddad will come too, he won’t come to a noisy teenage party.”

Mum’s eyes glistened and she hastily wiped a hand across her face before anyone could notice. All but Nathan did notice but didn’t comment. Instead dad covered his wife’s hand with one of his and Hally’s hand with his other.

“You two amaze me.”

He told them emotionally, not in the least bit embarrassed that Corrinne and Clia were present. Nathan continued shovelling food into his mouth, seemingly oblivious to the subject being discussed, but surprising them all by mumbling with a mouthful of food.

“Girls.”

They all laughed, mum trying to admonish Nathan for talking with his mouth full.

“So a barbeque it is then.”

Dad announced and Nathan interjected with.

“Good, I love barbeques and it means I won’t have to put up with loads of Hally’s friends trying to make me dance.”

This was said clearly and without food in his mouth, but the others still found it amusing. Corrinne ruffled his hair and he tried to duck away from her. She giggled and said.

“We can still dance at a barbeque you know?”

Nathan gave her a frown that clearly stated she had no chance and brought more laughter to the table.

Hally told mum and dad she and the girls would clear the kitchen and to go through and spend the time with Nathan. Mum kissed her on the cheek and taking a cup of tea did exactly that. As the three girls loaded the dish washer, washed up saucepans, dried and put away they chatted about Hally’s upcoming birthday.

“I want your families there too.”

Hally told them. Corrinne and Clia accepted with smiles.

“What about Wes’ parents and Ellie?”

Clia asked tentatively. Hally stood holding a tea towel twiddling with a corner.

“Well that’s one of the reasons I want my birthday at home, so they can all come too. I mean I haven’t even spoken to them since I found out and have no idea what they will say. And of course Wes doesn’t know yet either and I will have to talk to my parents too.”

Corrinne patted her arm and said.

“Your parents will say it’s a very good idea then keep a really close eye on you to make sure you don’t get upset.”

Hally smiled knowing her friend’s words were absolutely true. Her phone chirped in her pocket and she pulled it out knowing it would be a message from Wes. She opened the message menu and quickly read what he had sent.

“He’s coming round at seven.”

She told the girls a little nervously.

“Do you want us to make ourselves scarce?”

Clia said. Hally shook her head.

“No, in fact what were you two planning tonight with Gregg and Rhys?”

Corrinne looked at Clia questioningly. Clia answered.

“We hadn’t really planned anything. I mean together that is, Rhys said he would come round tonight but what about you Corrie?”

“Same thing.”

Corrinne replied.

“So do you want to call them and ask them if they want to come here?”

Hally asked. Both gave her an inquisitive look and so she explained.

“Wes wants everyone to know about Ellie and I think it would be easier if we were all together to tell them. I know you two said you would tell them, but maybe Wes should be the one. Also (with a brighter look) we can discuss my birthday.”

Her friends grinned and both took out their phones and rang their boyfriends. Hally found it amusing at the way each of her friends arranged the evening with her boyfriend. Corrinne sweetly asked Gregg if he would come round to Hally’s because they were all going to be there; whereas Clia simply announced to Rhys that they were all going to be at Hally’s and added importantly that he should be there too. However, each boy agreed a time to come round.

“I better text Wes and let him know.”

Hally said sounding a little worried. She quickly tapped in the message to Wes and waited for his reply. It didn’t take long.

ok hally that’s cool i should tell the lads myself anyway and i could really do with your help doing that.

Hally sighed with relief already feeling better about the evening ahead.

Wes arrived exactly at seven and gave Hally the usual hug and kiss. Mum and dad smiled and said hello and he looked at them embarrassment all over his face. Hally, Corrinne and Clia stood side by side, Hally nervously waiting to see what her parents would say. Mum put her hand on Wes’ arm and gently squeezed it.

“Wes we can’t say we are not shocked by what Hally’s told us, but we do understand. Your parents needed to protect you and your…daughter. So please don’t be embarrassed, or nervous, we are not going to bite your head off.”

Wes smiled at mum and managed a meek ‘Thank you’. Dad stood up from the armchair and came over to him. He held out his hand and Wes took it.

“Things happen son, things that can’t be changed or undone. I only ask that you are now always open and honest with our daughter.”

Wes looked at dad and nodded.

“I hurt Hally by not doing that. I won’t ever let that happen again. She means too much to me.”

He said the last part blushing furiously and thankfully Nathan came bursting into the room relieving his discomfort.

“Mum mum! can I stay up a bit later tonight?”

Mum turned to her son.

“Please. Remember your manners.”

She said a little sternly. Nathan screwed up his face at being reprimanded.

“Pleeease.”

He said giving his mum his widest most innocent look. This inevitably achieved the intended and she bent down to her son.

“Before I agree what for?”

Nathan launched into an explanation of a programme that was coming on television that would go beyond his usual bedtime. Mum listened and then agreed he could watch it sitting on the sofa in the study because Hally and her friends would be in the lounge. Nathan didn’t argue, in fact he was quite pleased because he knew both his parents would be in the study too and dad especially would most likely watch the programme with him. So he smiled, wrapped his arms around his mother’s neck and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“Come on let’s get you into your pyjamas then.”

She told him taking his hand and leading him from the room.

“I’ll give you a hand.”

Dad said following.

Rhys and Gregg arrived together with a large pack of soft drinks a bag of snacks and a new DVD. Corrinne and Clia greeted their boyfriends and the six moved into the lounge ready to settle down and watch the film. However before the two boys unpacked the goodies and the DVD, Wes told them to sit down because there was something important he had to tell them. Rhys looked worried but Gregg just looked puzzled.

“Everything’s ok with work isn’t it?”

Rhys asked hesitantly. Wes looked a little puzzled himself then realised Rhys thought he had something to tell him from his father.

“Hey mate; this is nothing to do with your job. My dad would tell you himself if there was anything you needed to know. No this is about me.”

Rhys gave a very audible sigh of relief and Clia nudged him and smiling whispered.

“Numpty.”

Rhys grinned at her and sat back to let Wes get on with his explanation.

The group were well into the pack of soft drinks by the time Wes finished, the snacks and DVD untouched. He had not gone into as much detail as he had with Hally and there were no signs of tears. Hally felt that he probably felt a lot better telling his story again after keeping it a secret for so long. Almost like lifting a huge weight from his shoulders she thought. Rhys and Gregg both sat almost stunned into silence by his tale.

“So that’s all of it”

Wes said turning his palms face up and sighing.

“Wow mate, that’s one heck of a big thing to keep to yourself.”

Gregg announced.

“Yeah, sounds like this bird was a real bitch.”

Rhys told him. Hally looked at Corrinne and Clia and together they smiled. She sensed they understood as she did, that it was very important to Wes that his friends didn’t rebuke or chastise him for keeping it from them or offer any opinion about him being a father. Hally believed she was as relieved by this as Wes obviously was, from the smiles and looks he and the other two boys were giving each other. She thought this could very well bring them all closer together.

Gregg was about to unwrap the DVD when Corrinne put out a hand to stop him. He looked at her a question in his eyes and she giggled. Taking the disc from him she laid it to one side but started pulling the snacks from the bag.

“Hally wants us to talk about her birthday.”

She said pulling a bag of tortilla chips open.

“So we’re not going to watch the film then?”

Gregg asked whipping the packet from her. She giggled again and pulled them back out of his hand.

“Maybe, but Hally’s birthday is more important.”

The others laughed at this little interchange between them. Hally and Clia knowing full well that Corrinne would win the packet of tortillas from Gregg. They were right and once Corrinne had complete control of the packet she then passed it around to all of them leaving Gregg until last. He took a handful with a loud ‘Humph’ and they all laughed again.

“So what’s happening on your birthday then?”

Wes asked, so Hally explained her idea.

They all agreed that Hally’s idea of a barbeque was a very good one. Hally extended invitations to include Gregg and Rhys’ families too which were met with enthusiasm. Gregg had two brothers one thirteen years old and one ten. Rhys had twin younger sisters a year younger than Nathan so with Ellie there would be a few children to run around the garden and play with. Wes had no doubts that his parents would willingly take part in Hally’s birthday celebrations.

“They really want to talk to you themselves about Ellie.”

He told her as they were all putting together plans and ideas for the barbeque. Hally’s nerves jolted but she had expected this.

“You’ll be with me though won’t you?”

She asked and he told her he would be right by her side. This comforted her and she leaned into him lovingly.

“So DVD right?”

Gregg said rubbing his hands together. They all laughed and agreed it was time to settle down to the movie.

Late Sunday morning Hally sat in the kitchen with her family, including Granddad. Dad had gone round and picked him up early so they could all have breakfast together. Nathan didn’t have a football match on so it looked like being a normal Sunday. The main difference being that Granddad had to be told about Wes and Ellie. Gratefully mum did the telling relieving Hally of this difficult task. Now they sat at the table, tea and biscuits in front of them. Nathan was happily playing in the garden making his toys act out some daring feats in his sand box.

“Well I’m not as shocked as you thought I would be.”

Granddad stated after mum finished telling him. Hally, mum and dad looked at him in surprise.

“What do you mean dad?”

Mum asked. Granddad gave her his lovely gentle smile.

“Your mum had some inkling that the boy had some secret. Don’t ask me how she knew; maybe her illness gave her some sort of sixth sense, all I know is she said to me a few times. ‘Will watch out for our Hally when I’m gone. Wes is a lovely lad but he’s keeping something from her.’ Well I didn’t want to say anything, you know in case she was wrong.”

He gave a little shrug and looked at each member of his family.

“She said something like that to me too.”

Hally said barely above a whisper and very close to tears. Mum covered her hand and squeezed it gently.

“It’s ok baby, really. You couldn’t possibly know before Wes told you.”

Hally looked down at the biscuit she was holding.

“I know, but I should have taken notice of her and asked him sooner. I mean there were things I was determined to ask him about, like his exams but I kept putting it off.”

Mum gave her hand a little shake.

“Hally don’t put so much onto yourself. It was Wes’ responsibility, and just because mum had a feeling about something doesn’t mean you let her down by not acting on it.”

Hally still felt wretched, and then Granddad spoke out.

“My angel, if you are going to beat yourself up about this then give me a couple of punches too because I didn’t do anything about it either. I just let it go, partly because I didn’t want to interfere with you and your boyfriend, and partly because I just didn’t know how to go about it. I suppose I should have talked to your parents, but you were happy, I didn’t want to do anything to disrupt that.”

Hally stood up and moved to her Granddad’s side. She put her arms around him and hugged him tightly. In her heart of hearts she knew she was being too hard on herself, but more than anything she didn’t want Granddad to feel he had let her down, he was the most caring loving person in the world.

“Ok Granddad, let’s have a punch up together.”

He laughed as they play threw punches at each other like two very untrained boxers.

The front doorbell chimed making everyone jump a little. It was very rare that anyone used the front door as everyone they knew came round the back. Only the postman and strangers used the front. Mum got up and went to answer the door and seemed to be gone for quite a while. Just as dad was about to go and see where she had got to, she came back into the kitchen followed by Wes, his parents and Ellie. Hally looked at him in surprise.

“Mum and dad thought it would be rude to come round the back.”

He stated simply and quietly. Dad stood up offering his hand to Wes’ parents and introductions were made. Immediately Ellie became the centre of everyone’s attention and Wes hoisted her up into his arms as she began an indecipherable gabble only he and his parents seemed to understand.

“Ok, it’s in the bag.”

He told her giving her a peck as Kate passed a beaker filled with juice which the toddler quickly slurped on.

“How is she?”

Mum asked concernedly. Before Wes could reply Kate interjected.

“She’s alright. Her temperature has gone right back to normal considering how high it was Friday. The doctor’s say it was some sort of nasty virus that travelled through her quickly. We thought it would be ok to bring her out today because we’re not going anywhere else.”

Mum smiled nodding, as a mother herself she fully understood.

“So, would you like some tea?”

Dad asked as the lull in conversation created a tension that was almost visible. Wes’ parents smiled, relief spreading across their faces.

“Hally, why don’t you take everyone through to the lounge and your dad and I will get some drinks and make sure Nathan’s alright.”

Hally led the way and offered seats to Michael and Kate. She switched the television off which had been playing to itself, Nathan having left it on when he decided the garden was a better place to be. Wes lowered Ellie to the floor and Kate pulled several toys from the bag she had been carrying. The toddler seemed content to plonk down, grabbing toys and discarding her beaker. Wes stayed close to Ellie. Hally felt very uncomfortable, even though Granddad was with her she desperately wished her mum and dad would hurry up. As if her thoughts had summoned them they both came in dad carrying a tray. Nathan was with them, but didn’t look too pleased about it. However, he behaved well and sat on the floor near Ellie and began showing her his action toys.

“We wanted to come round and apologise to Hally.”

Kate said as mum passed around tea cups. Hally looked up in surprise but didn’t speak and Kate went on.

“You see, at first we thought it was best she didn’t know about Ellie, well she’s young and we didn’t know if it would…last…between her and Wes.”

She took a sip of tea obviously embarrassed by her own words.

“Then when they had been together for some time we were worried that if she knew she would break up with him.”

Her face flushed a deeper red. Hally felt indignant that they had placed little trust in her but remained silent with no outward signs of her feelings.

“Then when Wes wanted us to meet Hally we wanted him to explain, but he lost his nerve and though we were not happy about it we thought we should leave him to decide when. Then it just seemed to go on and on. We had a few arguments about it (Hally glanced at Wes and he looked down) we knew Hally had a right to know. But he still kept putting it off and then when Ellie became ill, well it all had to come out then.”

She stopped and finished drinking her tea. Wes looked so miserable, Hally couldn’t bear to see him so down, wouldn’t let him feel so bad about not telling her sooner. She sat down next to him and put her arm through his.

“Thanks Kate, but it’s alright. Wes knows he should have told me sooner but he was scared how I would take it. (Wes looked at her gratefully and lovingly) But now it’s out in the open and we have really talked about all of it, I don’t blame him. It was really hard for him, not something you can just throw into a conversation whilst watching television.”

Mum and dad looked at her with soft smiles and granddad silently mouthed ‘Well done’ with a smile that told her he was very proud of her. Wes took her hand and leaned towards her and kissed her cheek. His parents both relaxed, visibly dropping tense shoulders. Michael then spoke.

“Hally you are a very lovely young woman. I say that because you show a maturity most girls your age haven’t got a clue about. We are truly sorry for the hurt and upset this has caused you and your family and hope we can all be good friends.”

Dad who was still standing replied.

“Well you’re right about Hally and I think I speak for her and the rest of our family when I say we would be glad to be friends.”

Everyone smiled with obvious relief. Then mum said.

“Actually, we are planning Hally’s birthday. She wants a barbeque and would like you to come, so?”

Kate looked at her husband and they both nodded and she replied.

“Thank you we’ll look forward to that.”

More tea was made and a fresh plate of biscuits brought through. Nathan had given up showing Ellie his toys as she had taken little interest in them, finding handing out and taking back her own toys to everyone much more fun. So he settled himself down and carried on playing by himself. Wes had whispered thanks to Hally as their parents and Granddad chatted about various things. She smiled at him feeling as though she were the elder of them. Then they chatted together quietly about nothing in particular. Mum invited Wes and his parents to Sunday dinner and when they agreed she asked Hally to help her in the kitchen. Hally immediately knew this was a ploy to get her on her own as she knew her mother was very adept at putting together a meal for unexpected guests by herself.

“What?”

She asked when she was in the kitchen. Mum grinned at her.

“Don’t worry. I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you. You not only handled that very well, you gave Wes support when he badly needed it and well, his mum was kind of passing the buck a bit too much onto him and you put a stop to that. Poor Wes, he looked terrible until you stepped in.”

Hally hugged her mum.

“So what do you want me to do?”

She asked.

“Nothing, just stay a bit so it won’t look obvious, but honestly baby, I have everything covered.”

Hally giggled but insisted on peeling carrots, so they stood side by side preparing vegetables.

Hally thought school might be awkward after the weekend until she realised that no one knew what had happened. She met up with Corrinne and Clia as usual and as they walked the route Hally told them all about the visit from Wes’ parents. With a smile she told them that Sunday dinner had gone very well with Wes commenting to Hally with a wink that she had done a good job helping her mum. He had known without being told that mum had just wanted to talk to her daughter and did not need her help at all. The girls were amused especially when she told them that Wes’ dad had assumed she had made the Yorkshire puddings after misunderstanding something Granddad said, and kept complimenting her.

After registration and tutor group, Hally, Corrinne and Clia made their way to their lesson which was science. The teacher had a pile of papers on his desk and after the students settled down explained they were going to look at some sample exam papers in preparation for their upcoming GCSEs. Hally found the lesson useful but unnerving. It suddenly dawned on her that her exams were now very close, really only a few weeks away; and although they had begun revision after Christmas, then they had seemed a long way off, now they seemed extremely close.

During break with Corrinne and Clia, Hally discussed her fears with her friends. It was some comfort to her to find they were as nervous as she was. So when break finished and she and Clia headed for their Maths lesson and Corrinne to hers she was already feeling more relaxed. From then on the pattern was set and all the teachers had a similar plan, to give the students as much practice as possible.

As the weeks slipped by through April revision became almost the only thing on Hally’s mind. Wes too was studying hard for his final A levels and sometimes they spent evenings studying together. Most of this time was spent in silence as each was studying something different from the other and could therefore be of no help. Whereas revising with Corrinne and Clia was entirely different and reminded Hally of the previous year when they had revised for their mocks. This year was of course far more serious, but it was still very helpful to discuss questions with her two friends.

Nights not studying, when she could spend time with Wes, Corrinne, Clia, Rhys and Gregg were few, but when they did get together they relaxed and enjoyed each other’s company. Hally’s parents had insisted that she take some time off as they believed too much time with her nose in a book would lead to overload and exhaustion. So she took their advice and treasured those times with her boyfriend and friends. She had a brief lull in her studies over the Easter break when mum and dad organised some fun time as a family and when she actually managed to spend some more time with Wes. However, all too soon the holiday was over and it was back to school and a timetable full of exam preparation.

Hally awoke one Saturday morning suddenly realising that her birthday was exactly one week away. She went downstairs and met mum coming out of the utility room. Mum made tea and put the mug down in front of her daughter.

“You must have been worn out. It’s quite late for you.”

She said. Hally looked at the clock and saw it was ten thirty, she never slept this late even at the weekends. She liked to get up and have a full day believing she was missing out on part of her life. Her dad had laughed many times and told her that in a year or two she would probably change and would stay in bed until late in the afternoon like most teenagers. Hally had huffed this off exclaiming she would never be like that. But at that moment she wondered if her dad was indeed right. Then she shook off the feeling telling herself that she was just tired from all the school work. She stood up to go back upstairs to get ready and mum said.

“Your dad and I are going to the supermarket in a while. I’m going to get some of the frozen stuff for next weekend. Is there anything special you want? I mean we are getting all the fresh meat next Saturday from the butcher it’s just frozen today.”

Hally thought for a moment then grinned.

“Raspberry pavlova, chocolate gateaux and chocolate fudge cake.”

She said. Mum laughed.

“Already on the list.”

Hally giggled as she turned towards the door.

“You know me far too well mummy.”

The week flew by and before Hally knew it her birthday had arrived. She woke very early and climbing out of bed she slipped on her dressing gown and slippers and quietly moved over to the window. She pulled the cord lifting the blinds and beautiful bright early May sunshine flooded her room. She thought she heard a sound behind her and glanced over her shoulder. Of course she was alone, but as the sun bounced off the picture of the baby and the angels she felt sure she had seen an angel lean over the baby and kiss her. Hally wasn’t afraid, part of her believed it was a trick of the light; but another part of her believed her Gran had been there with her in that brief moment and it gave her a warm loving secure feeling.

Looking down into the garden Hally watched birds hop about the lawn pecking at things she couldn’t see. There was a pair of tiny Bluetits hanging upside down on a feeder and the bird table was busy with sparrows and starlings fighting for food. She smiled to herself finding the action in the garden very entertaining. Then something must have disturbed them because all of the birds suddenly took flight and leaning forward slightly so she could see more, Hally saw her dad removing the cover from the barbeque, a bucket of water by his side. He was getting set up for her birthday celebration.

Showered and dressed, Hally made her way downstairs and found her mum in the kitchen. She glanced at the clock and saw it was too early for her brother to be up and thought her mum was trying to get some things prepared before he arose from bed. Hally said good morning and switched the kettle on to make tea. The back door was open and mild spring air came into the kitchen. Hally could hear dad whistling, smiling because there was no real tune and thought he was just competing with the birds.

“What are you smiling at?”

Mum asked.

“Dad, I think he’s trying to out whistle the birds.”

She replied. Mum laughed and accepted the mug of tea Hally handed her. She then carried another mug outside for her dad. He stood scrubbing the barbeque his lips pursed an incongruous sound coming from them but stopped when she approached.

“Here you go dad.”

Hally said holding out the mug. Dad took it saying thank you and stopped his task of scrubbing to sip the hot drink.

“Looks like it’s going to be a perfect day.”

He told his daughter. Hally looked up at the clear blue sky and agreed with her father. Silently she thought it wasn’t just the weather that would make this day perfect, it would be the people who came and especially one person, Wes.

Hally had decided that she wanted to wait until everyone was there before she opened any of her presents, even from her parents. The only exception was the one from Nathan. After his breakfast he had whizzed from the kitchen like an out of control firework and returned minutes later clutching a present.

“I wrapped it all by myself.”

He announced handing her a small package untidily held together with tape. Hally grinned, it was an improvement on the wrapping the previous year. She carefully tugged at the tape and pulled out a red box made of card and homemade.

“Mum showed me how to make that.”

He said excitedly. Hally opened the little box and found a multi-coloured beaded bracelet.

“Do you like it?”

He asked his voice getting louder the more excited he got. Hally pulled her little brother into her arms and hugged him, unusually he didn’t resist.

“Natty I love it. It’s gorgeous and I’m going to wear it all of the time.”

She slid the bracelet over her wrist and for a moment Nathan twiddled with it. Then he whipped out of her arms and gleefully headed off to the garden to his dad.

Once again Hally stood in front of her bedroom mirror examining the way she looked. She recalled doing the same thing the year before but then had doubted the reflection that looked back at her. So much had happened since then and though she was still surprised at her shapely figure, she was so used to it now that she took it for granted. Besides, she had Wes; in fact they had been together for almost a year now and what a year it had been. She leaned toward the mirror checking her makeup. Using her thumb she removed a tiny speck of stray eye shadow and then smoothing her dress she flipped her hair over her shoulder and spoke to her reflection.

“You look pretty good.”

She giggled to herself and slipping on a pair of flat ballet shoes practically skipped from her room.

The barbeque was smoking gently dad standing over it with some of the meat already beginning to cook. Granddad stood by his side each of them holding a bottle of beer chatting whilst dad turned chicken drumsticks. Mum had covered two garden tables with paper cloths, one for drinks and the other for salads, rolls and various other tasty foods. Nathan had a handful of crisps and was running around the garden chasing butterflies. The afternoon sunshine was now very warm and without a cloud in sight promised to stay for the whole day. Hally stepped onto the deck and both her parents smiled at how beautiful their daughter looked.

Wes arrived first telling Hally that his parents were bringing Ellie in a little while. He told her that his mum had just started getting the toddler ready when she pulled the lid off her beaker and spilled juice all down her. Luckily his mum had not put her in the new outfit he had bought for the party. So he decided to walk over and leave them to come when they were ready. Hally laughed imagining the scene, but secretly pleased that he was with her alone for a short time at least.

Not long after Wes arrived Clia and Corrinne turned up with their families and then Rhys with his parents and twin sisters. Nathan was not impressed, then Gregg arrived with his family and Nathan was appeased to find a new male to play with, even though he was a bit older. Finally Kate and Michael walked through the back gate, Ellie waddling along grasping Kate’s hand. She spotted Wes and slipping her fingers from Kate’s bounded across the garden calling ‘Pappy Es, Pappy Es’. Wes caught her just as she stumbled and lifted her into his arms where she buried her face in his shoulder, suddenly becoming shy.

“Hello Ellie.”

Hally said to the little girl. Ellie looked through a mass of curls at her and gave her a cheeky smile, then without warning she launched herself out of Wes’ arms towards Hally. Wes reacted quickly as did Hally and between them they prevented the child from falling, Hally catching her. Ellie thought it was a hilarious game and giggling tried it again, this time towards Wes, but this time they expected it and Hally held on. Ellie squirmed in her arms, so she relinquished her hold and handed her back to her father, where this time she stayed.

A few more family friends arrived and eventually when all of the guests were there milling and chatting with drinks in their hands mum brought out a pile of presents. She called for everyone’s attention and the conversations died down and the guests moved closer to the bench where she had placed the gifts.

“First, Colin and I would like to thank you all for coming to our daughter’s birthday celebration.”

Dad handed the barbeque tongs to Granddad and put his hand on his wife’s shoulder smiling at everyone.

“We wanted Hally to open all her gifts at once and with everyone.”

Mum carried on. A little voice popped up from the front.

“She opened mine already.”

Nathan announced importantly and mum smiled and nodded to him.

“Yes she did Nathan.”

Then she turned to Hally and handed her a beautifully wrapped present. Hally became excited and quickly unwrapped it. Inside she found a small box with a hinged lid and lifting the lid found a gold ring with a gleaming rich emerald stone at its centre. Hally was speechless, she took it out of the box and eased it onto the third finger of her right hand, it fitted perfectly. Hally hugged both her parents tightly, then Granddad stepped forward. He lifted a present from the top of the pile and gave it to her.

“This is from me and your Gran.”

He told her emotionally and Hally had to bite back tears. She didn’t want to cry, not today but as she took the gift she thought it was going to be impossible not to. Gently she unwrapped the package and again found a box. It was small and made from lacquered wood with a simple picture of a lily of the valley flower on its lid. Carefully and with everyone looking on in anticipation, she lifted the lid. A gold heart shaped pendant with an emerald nestled in the centre sat on a cushion of green velvet.

“It was your Gran’s. I gave it to her just after she had your mum. The heart for our love and the emerald for your mum, born in May and named May.”

Hally couldn’t stop the flow of tears as she wrapped her arms around Granddad. Mum put her arms around her dad too and for a moment the world shrank to just those three. Finally, Hally backed away wiping her eyes and turning back to the guests.

“I’m sorry about that.”

She said meekly, trying on a tiny smile and finding it fit quite well. There were lots of murmurs and mumblings of ‘That’s fine’ and ‘It’s ok’ when mum said with a big sigh.

“So the rest of the presents.”

Hally opened gift after gift thanking each person who had given it to her. There was a new bag from Wes’ parents, perfume from Corrinne and Clia and various other gifts from the guests. After opening the last on the pile and finding a huge box of speciality chocolates from Rhys and Gregg, Wes took her arm and led her to a quiet spot in the garden.

“I wanted to give this to you myself.”

He whispered, taking a small box out of his pocket. Hally lifted the lid and saw a pair of gold and emerald drop earrings that perfectly matched the ring from her parents.

“I checked with your mum and dad and these are from the same collection as your ring.”

He told her. Hally pulled his head towards her and kissed him lovingly.

“I take it you’re pleased with them then?”

He asked with a grin when the kiss ended.

“They are beautiful Wes. I love them and I love you.”

The words came easily and boldly, all her previous bashfulness gone. Wes held her.

“And I very much love you too my Hally.”

All the delicious smells of hot barbequed meat filled the air and drew the guests closer to the table where dad was laying out the cooked food. He told anyone in earshot to help themselves and seemed in his element with Granddad helping. Hally sat with Wes, Corrinne, Clia, Rhys and Gregg for most of the time, occasionally wandering about and speaking to the other guests. Kate and Michael were chatting happily to Rhys and Gregg’s parents and the afternoon moved lazily into evening. Dad had placed long garden candles on sticks in the borders and mum had put small tea lights on the tables. As the sun began to drop the candles were lit and a pleasant soft light was cast across the garden. Ellie had fallen asleep on Michael’s lap and the other children had quietened.

“Quite a big difference from last year isn’t it?”

Clia said to Hally and the others. Hally nodded.

“Yes, and you know, I think I prefer it this way. Just family and close friends.”

“Why what happened last year?”

Rhys asked. Clia went on to explain and Rhys and Gregg both looked astounded.

“That Martin Cobb was in the year above us. He was always in trouble; in fact I think he got permanently excluded when he was in year eight or nine. Something about trashing a classroom. Apparently Mr Hopkins was there, the teacher had to take the rest of class out and call for help. I think that’s the only time I’ve ever known someone to get that violent at the school.”

Rhys told them.

“Oh I remember that.”

Gregg exclaimed.

“The teacher was…umm…oh yeah, Miss Blake, she was new, just qualified, art teacher. I think she’s left now.”

The girls nodded.

“Yeah I don’t recognise the name.”

Hally said and Corrinne and Clia agreed.

Gradually guests came and said thank you that they’d had a wonderful time and departed. Stars appeared almost one by one in the darkening night sky and seemed to pop up as a guest left. It was as if they were leaving the garden only to appear against the velvety background of the night to continue observing the party from above. Finally it was just Wes, Corrinne, Clia, Rhys and Gregg left. Dad had left the barbeque to cool down and had gone inside with mum, Granddad and Nathan, so the six sat, each girl snuggled close to her boyfriend chatting quietly about the day. It began to get cool so eventually they moved indoors. Nathan had been put to bed and mum, dad and Granddad were in the lounge, so the six settled in the kitchen nibbling at the food that was left over. Corrinne yawned loudly which started everyone off.

“I think I need to go home.”

She said to Hally. They all agreed to call it a night and Hally and Wes walked to the back gate to see them off. Wes held Hally against him and she leaned back into him waving until her friends turned onto the street.

They made their way back through the garden to the door. Just before they reached it Wes stopped and turned Hally into his arms.

“I’ve waited all day to do this.”

He held her tightly and kissed her deeply. Instantly fire erupted inside her and her body responded as if by itself. She pressed close to him wanting to feel much more of him. She felt she couldn’t get close enough, and wriggled her hips against him. She knew what doing that would do to him and was unsurprised when it did. Wes pulled back a bit and took a deep breath, but she pulled him close again. She did not want any of this to stop. A noise from the kitchen made her look up and she saw mum moving about near the sink. Hally sighed and moved away from Wes enough to break the contact. She knew there and then in the garden, with her mum close by that it was not the right time.

“I’m sorry Wes. Mum’s just by the window; I can’t do this here and now.”

Wes nuzzled her cheek.

“It’s ok Hally, don’t apologise, I know. It’s just not the right time. We will both know when it is.”

He kissed her gently and together they strolled back into the kitchen.

It was late by the time Hally got to bed. Mum and dad had walked back with Granddad and Wes had gone home. Now with her parents in bed she stood at her window looking down into the garden where everything was quiet and still. She had stripped off her dress and stood in her underwear, aware of how her body still throbbed and burned when she remembered Wes’ touch and kiss. Yet even though she knew the garden wasn’t exactly the right place to take things further, she still felt uncertain that anywhere was. Yes she wanted to with every fibre in her body when Wes got so close. Also, she felt a glowing sense of power that she could make his body react too; but in the back of her mind, even when she just wanted him to take her clothes off and touch her all over and do more, she felt trepidation and uncertainty. So did that tell her that she was still not mentally ready even though her body told her she was? Hally climbed into bed feeling a mountain of confusion in her mind. She closed her eyes and tiredness took over and that night in her dreams all her reservations were thrown to the wind and she and Wes became one.