1.22 Still in shock

Andrew was in the park walking back and forth and started talking to himself, ‘Breath Andrew, breath. My grandfather was rich…why did he keep that from me.’

“You know talking to yourself is the first sign of madness.” Mr Davis replied. He knew it was a lot to take in so followed Andrew to see if he was alright.

“Why did he do this?”

“Andrew, your grandfather wanted you to have a normal life. What he meant by that was he wanted you to earn your own money and be happy. He didn’t want you to fall for a girl who was only after your money. Kirsten has feelings for you not because of the money but for you.”

“You do know her family is rich.”

“Yes about that…Your grandfather and Daniel Decker never liked each other. Daniel Decker tried to buy up the company and your grandfather refused even though at the time it was about to go under but he turned the company around and it survived.  He hated that and when your grandfather died again he tried for the company.”

“What are you saying exactly?”

“I’m saying Daniel Decker doesn’t know you are the grandson. He hates the fact his daughter works at the company and he hates anyone dating his daughter without his approval. When he finds out it’s you that own the company he may back off trying to buy it because of Kirsten but it is only her that can get her Dad to back off. He has a soft spot for his daughter not that you’d see it. Rumour was when he first married he adored his wife and when the children were born he spent much time with them. The more money he made for them the worse he became. Your grandfather loved you very much and what he saw happen to Daniel he never wanted that for you. Take some good advice, you can live very comfortable. I say keep your job let the company run how it has been with the occasional appearance but most important love your family.”

Andrew was stunned, “How can I cope with this?”

“There is a team managing the money but keep checking on it from time to time. Before you ask, I think Kirsten will be fine with all this. Shocked like you but fine. Just don’t keep it from her.”

Andrew arrived home and was still in shock when Kirsten started to yell, “I’ve be worried sick you were only going to the solicitors you said. You were going to be another hour you said. Do you know how embarrassing it was being stood up?” Andrew just sat there letting Kirsten blow off steam while Jake was trying to calm her down, “Let the guy breathe sis can’t you see he’s in shock or upset. Give him a chance to explain.” 

Kirsten sat down and Jake was about to leave when Andrew finally spoke, “Jake stay I want you to hear this.” Jake nodded and sat next to Andrew. “Kirst, I’m sorry I didn’t turn up for dinner it’s just the solicitor gave me some news that shocked me.”

“I’m confused, I thought you were there to finalise your grandfather’s estate.”

Andrew started to pace the floor. “Andrew you’re worrying me.” Kirsten said with a concerned look.

“I’ve had a lot on my mind.” 

Sitting on a chair looking at them both, “I was expecting to sign a few papers and that was it but instead he took me to a house, told me to look around and then told me the house was mine and I have money because my grandfather was wealthy.” Suddenly there was silence but Jake broke the silence, “Couldn’t loan us a few quid?” Kirsten glared at her brother, “Trying to make the guy smile.”

“Jake, you are so funny!” Andrew said sarcastically. Jake excused himself because this now concerned his sister and Andrew.

He sat next to Kirsten and asked, “You haven’t said anything.” She smiled at him, “Well at least we got together before you found out. I’m not interested in your money. Remember I told Dad where to stick his.”

“About your Dad…”

“What about him?”

“Ok…The Company you work for your Dad wants it.”

 “I know he does but he needs to stop chasing business and chase after my mum. Anyway, what of it?”

“My grandfather owned the company you work for and now I own it.” Kirsten saw red and yelled, “I work for you. My boyfriend is my boss…If you think you can tell me what to do…”

Andrew pulled her towards him and kissed her then said, “Look this is all new I’m not going to tell you what to do. Apparently I just need to show my face every now and then. I don’t want to build an empire, I just want you.”

Kirsten had a girlish smile over her face, “That’s so sweet. When do I get to see the house you were left then?” Andrew smiled, “I have the keys so let’s go now.”

Once they got there Kirsten couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. The first place she went was the garden because over the last few years she missed not having anywhere to sit in the sun. Andrew hadn’t seen the garden until now and was shocked on the size of it and when he turned the corner he saw a barbeque and counter. Andrew thought he was in a dream but it was dawning on him that this was no dream. 

When he saw Kirsten’s face light up when she was next to the pool he had thought of giving his grandmothers ring but felt it would not be a wise move at the moment. “Andrew, when are you moving here?”

“I can’t live here on my own but you could move in.”

“I don’t know…”

“You can have your own room with a door.” Kirsten couldn’t help but laugh. As he kissed her he added, “I want you to take the main bedroom.”

“I can’t it’s your house.” Andrew kissed her again, “I would rather share a room with you but if we are using the same setup similar to what we do now then seeing you more comfortable is the right thing to do.”

“I look like I have no choice but to accept the room but what about Jakey and the others?”

 “I can put them in the basement.”

“Ha-ha very amusing.”

“I wasn’t joking there are rooms in the basement so they can have their own rooms.”

When the others arrived at the house they were all in shock. Jake was the first to instantly agree to move in. 

Hazel did question it with Kirsten, “I’m fine with it Haz. It’ll be like before but as Andrew said we will all have our own rooms.”

Hazel was in shock, “So you and Andrew aren’t sharing?”

“We want to take our time.” Hazel didn’t respond after all what could she say. So Matt and Hazel went to look at their new rooms. Kay was reluctant at first but Andrew insisted she stayed as there was more than enough room. When the old house sold Andrew wasn’t sure what to do with the money. Jake just advised him to put it in the bank until he knew what he wanted. They all loved the new rooms even if they were in the basement. 

Matt quickly unpacked and then didn’t waste any time heading for Hazel’s room, “Wow Haz, you have a double bed.” Then to Hazel’s surprise Matt closed the door behind him and said, “I have something to ask.”

Jake was trying to listen when Kay walked past rolling her eyes at him. He ran up to her grabbed her putting her against the wall and whispered softly, “When do I get to see your room?” 

1.21 Andrew's surprise

Monte Vista

Andrew took the phone from Kirsten and spoke to Jake, “You did what?” He listened to the explanation and then said, “Thanks for the warning.” Then Andrew hung up.

Kirsten was beside herself with worry, “My Dad is so angry Andrew.” He pulled her close to him as she continued, “He also hates you…he is going to try and drive us apart. What are we going to do?” 

He brush her back slightly, “We are going to do nothing but enjoy ourselves. We have done nothing wrong so what if I’m broke. I don’t want his money, the only thing I want from him is his permission to marry you some day and I only care about that because it is something that matters to you.”

“I told you we can’t rush this.” Kirsten weakly protested. The last few days here had been wonderful. Kirsten couldn’t believe Andrew had respected her boundaries. She felt happy and comfortable. Even though it had only been a few days of dating, Kirsten hated the nights knowing they were apart. She lay in bed most of the night wondering should she have suggested the no rule to sex. Now the word marriage came up again. The thought wasn’t bad it was just they had been dating officially for a few days. Even though Andrew had loved her for a long time, Kirsten hoped as the relationship progressed she would get there too.

“I know but I’m just being honest with you. Don’t let him upset you like this. There is one good thing, your Mum likes me.”

“I hope she can talk Dad around. I can’t believe Jakey punched him. I can’t think about that right now.” She kissed Andrew and said, “I’d better go to bed. I’ll see you in the morning?” Andrew glanced at her as she started to walk away and thought, ‘She is driving me insane. All I keeping thinking is making love with her and then falling asleep next to her…If that was any shorter I could, we could. No I have to go after her.’ 

He ran inside after her and just before she got to the door he spun her around running his hands down her back and pulling her even closer but he couldn’t say what was really on his mind. Kirsten put her hands on his face and smiled then Andrew said, “I forgot to say night.”

“Night.” Kissing him once more and leaving Andrew wondering would this dry spell ever go away. 

Then he heard his mobile beep with a texted that read, ‘I’ve been trying to get hold of you for a few days. Your Grandfathers estate now needs to be finalised. Please can you meet me at me office to sign papers. Appointment has been made for you tomorrow afternoon at 2pm. From Mr Davis.’

Andrew on one hand was pleased the estate would finally be settled even though he had received everything but leaving here and Kirsten he didn’t want to do. 

He knocked on the door and Kirsten looked at him with concern and sat with him as he showed her the texted. “Do you really have to go?”

“I can finally put my Grandfather estate in order. No more solicitors, calls and texts. It means though I have to leave early.” Kirsten stood up and went towards her bedroom, “Kirst, I know your upset but I have to go.” She turned to him and replied, “I’m packing my things. I’m not staying here without you so I’m going home with you.” Andrew was now in shock. He had never expected her to go back with him but he was pleased at the same time.

Lucky Palms

“Andrew, take a seat.” Mr Davis took his seat and asked, “I take it you and Miss Decker are now dating?”

Andrew smiled, “Kirsten is my girlfriend. I was away with her until you called me back here urgently. You said the estate can officially be settled?”

“Andrew I have to ask a few questions before you sign so please answer them.” Andrew was puzzled but agreed. Mr Davis started to ask the questions, “Andrew where do you see your relationship with Kirsten heading?”

Andrew wanted to exploded but had agreed to answer the questions and calmly said, “I love her and have done for a while. Kirsten is fond of me but for her the relationship has just begun. I would marry her but what would I offer her?”

“So you see you the relationship long term. Next question, you like the casino but do you waste your money down there?”

Andrew was now confused, “I pay my bills etc. and any money left over I then have a night out there but now I have Kirsten I think I may need to be able to take her out. Look I know you had questions but what is this about?”

“Maybe you should call Miss Decker here because what I have to say may come as a shock.”

“No I’m fine just tell me.”

Mr Davis insisted that they go for a drive. Andrew was supposed to be meeting Kirsten for a meal so texted her to say that he was running late. They pulled up outside this big house. Mr Davis opened the door and they both went inside, “Ok why am I here?”

Mr Davis looked at him and said, “Look around then we will talk.”

Andrew toured the house and some room he found weren’t decorated but when he saw the main bedroom with balcony the first thought was, ‘A beautiful view and no bunk bed, a private bathroom and it’s a bedroom with a door.’ 

The gym he fell in love with as he’d always wanted to use gym equipment at home. As he came back to the open living area he asked, “I’ve seen this house and it’s great but why show me?”

“There is no easy way to say Andrew so I’ll just come out with it. This house is yours.” 

Andrew almost fell over and sat down, “What I don’t understand.”

“The papers you have been signing are taxes papers. Your Grandfather left this house to your parents but after they died it went back to him as you were too young. He drew up a will immediately leaving this house and his estate to you.” Andrew looked at him as he continued, “He was a very wealthy man. After leaving the army as a journalist he started a small business that grew. The place where Kirsten works, well it’s your company plus this house and the bank accounts.”

“Shit I need fresh air.”

“The will stated that you don’t have to be married just settled and happy. I know this is a lot to take in.”

“When could I move in?” Still surprised at the information he had just been given.

“Whenever you’re ready. Look here are the keys and before I forget, this was your grandmother’s engagement ring and I was given instructions to give it to you. What you choose to do with it is now up to you.”  

1.20 Show Respect

Spencer was all packed and ready to leave, “Dad, are you sure you have to leave?”

“I’m sorry I’m leaving earlier than expected but Estevan wants the Casino to open on time and wants me to be head barman.” Spencer had finally been given a chance and didn’t want to mess it up.

“When are you and Paris getting married?”

“It’s a bit complicated.” Giving Mathew a confused look, “Thing is Mathew…I should have said something earlier but she wants a baby but I’ve had a child, you…” Mathew cut him off, “Dad if it’s what you both want go for it.” Spencer couldn’t believe how much his son had grown. He hugged him goodbye and said, “Take care and don’t do anything rash.” Mathew smiled then watched his Dad leave.

Jake was exhausted after another hard day’s training at the fire station and was relieved he was going to have the place to himself because Matt and Hazel were out for the day. ‘I must eat then sleep.’ He thought as he walked through the door. He grabbed anything from the fridge and went to sit down. He jumped when he saw Kay sitting at the table reading and he dropped his food. 

“Kay what are you doing here?”

“I guess Matt forgot to tell you I’m staying here for a few days. Do you need help cleaning up?”

Jake was in shock and just shook his head while cleaning up and thought, ‘Matt is so dead. How dare he let her stay when he knows I like her?’

“Jake I’m getting a drink from the kitchen would you like one?”

“No thanks. Kay, How long are you staying here?”

“Just a few days till your sister gets back.”  Jake started to watch as she walked away into the kitchen and decided to give it another try.

“Sorry about the other night. I hope you don’t think…” Kay interrupted him, “I told you before you are sweet but I’m just not interested.” Then she went back to the living room. Jake followed her and asked, “Do I smell?” Kay couldn’t help but laugh, “No you do not smell. In fact you smell nice but players don’t interest me.”

“Listen I’m not a player.” Kay looked shocked and said, “Not what I heard.”

“Look I’m 24 in a few weeks…” Kay interrupted him again, “Let me guess for your birthday you want a one night stand.” Jake was shocked and tried to defend himself, “It’s not like that. I don’t know what you have heard.”

“What’s been your longest relationship then?”

Jake suddenly thought, ‘Shit what do I say? I could lie but she would see right through me.’

“If you must know I went out with a girl for a month.”

Kay smiled a smug look and replied, “Thanks for proving my point.” Jake couldn’t believe this. Here was a beautiful woman refusing to go out with him and he hated it. Kay was different to other girls he’d dated and his gut told him he had to get that date the question was how?

“I know you like me so quit playing around and just agree to go on a date.” Kay thought for a moment and decided to play along knowing he couldn’t do it.

“Jake you want to date me fine; I’ll go on a date with you on one condition…” Jake had a smug look on his face thinking, ‘Now I have her attention. It can’t be that big so I’ll do this one thing then we will have our date.’ “Kay, what is the condition?”

“You are adamant that you are not a player, right?”

“Right.” Jake still had a smug look.

“You cannot date nor have sex with anyone for a month. If you can stick to this then you can have your date.” Jake mouth dropped to the floor and in shock, “This is just stupid. You can’t expect a man to not get any for a month.”

“See a player…”

“Ok fine.” Then he muttered under his breath, “Things I do to get a date.”

“Just so you know if you get the date, I don’t sleep with a man on the first date either.” Jake couldn’t believe this and why was having this date so important. He couldn’t think anymore and needed to rest, “I’ve had a hard day at work going to sleep, night.”

Kay smiled as she relaxed again to read her book and thought, ‘That shut him up. Now maybe he will leave me alone.’

“Why are we here to rock climb?” Hazel asked.

“You said on our first date that you were into sports so I thought this would be right up your street.” Looking smug.

“I’ve never rock climbed before; I meant sports as in netball, hockey and swimming…” Then Matt interrupted her, “Swimming! Why wouldn’t you go in the water then?”

Hazel thought about it and replied, “I was on a date not there to get wet.” Then Hazel thought about what she just said, ‘Please don’t twist what I just said.’

“I told you I didn’t mind seeing all your looks especially the wet look.” Hazel couldn’t believe it, ‘Oh great he did…men is that all they think about.’ Then Matt pulled her close as she replied, “When it rained the other night you could have seen that look but you refused.”

Matt kissed her and answered, “I know I did but our bodies maybe ready but I don’t think we are.”

Jake was finally drifting off to sleep when there was a bang at the door. 

He woke up with a start and heard from outside, “Will you calm down and hear Jake out first.”

“Why do you always defend the boy?” Jake had just opened the door to his parents when he heard his Mum say, “He is our son or had you forgotten that.”

“Mum, what are you doing here? I thought you were sorting things out.” Then he turned to his Dad giving him a dirty look. “Dad!” He allowed them inside and his Mum replied, “Who is Kirsten in Monte Vista with?” Jake was about to answer when Kay asked, “Jake what was that bang on the door.” 

Jake’s Dad interrupted him before he could answer, “Another tart Jake?” Kay looked horrified by the words that he spoke and was about to defend herself when Jake answered with his fist sending his Dad to the floor,
“Kay is no tart so show some respect. You are the one who has cheated not me.” 

He was angry and he looked at his Mum, “I’m sorry but he deserved that. I know you want things to work out Mum but seriously, why?” She looked at Jake then back at her husband. The man she married became consumed by wealth and the fun, loving husband she once knew she no longer recognized. “You need to apologize to Kay.” She demanded.

“I’m sorry!” He said with reluctance. Then he turned his attention back to Jake, “Your Mum asked a question who is Kirsten with?”

“My sister is in Monte Vista with Andrew my best mate.” His Dad exploded, “That idiot, who has no money.” Suddenly Jake’s Mum spoke, “I think he is nice…”

“He’s broke and he gambles…” Jake went straight to Andrews defence, “He has a job in the army and as for gambling it’s if he can afford too. He has had feeling for Kirsten for a long time and he finally told her. I set this up so have a go at me not her.”

“You set my daughter up with a loser?” 

Then he heard words spoke that shocked him but not from Jake but from his wife, “Andrew is not a loser, I think he will be good for Kirsten. So what if he is broke at least he loves her. At least she will get the attention she deserves. Do you remember being broke because I do it was the happiest time of my life? The best thing you ever did with the first lot of money you made was buying the house where we spent our honeymoon. Jake tell your sister I hope she has a wonderful time.” Then she left hurt and upset.

“Dad I think you are in the dog house.” He wanted to say something to Jake but he knew he couldn’t control his children anymore so went after his wife to talk.

He went in the room to find Kay upset, “My Dad is an ass he had no right to be like that with you. I’m just sorry you had to be here to witness it.”

“You didn’t have to punch him but thanks for defending me.”

Jake just smiled and answered, “I better ring Kirsten in case Dad tries going down there.”

1.19 Sorting things out

Monte Vista

Kirsten woke up still lying on the sofa. When she looked around there was no sign of Andrew. Kirsten remembered how she told him stay the night. A thought had crossed her mind what if he took that literally and had left without saying a word. She told herself that she was over reacting and sleeping in yesterday’s clothes was not todays look so she headed to the bathroom to have a bath. 

She started to day dream while relaxing in the bath and then she had thoughts of Andrew joining her in the bath but then she heard footsteps coming down the stairs and thought, ‘I have to stop this and get out of this damn bath.’

When she saw him in his underwear walking around the kitchen she said to herself in a whisper, ‘He is doing this on purpose but if those shorts fell to the floor, I could defiantly admire the view.’

Andrew smiled at her and said, “Morning. Have I done something wrong because you are staring?”

“Umm sorry was I…I was thinking that I said stay the night and you might have took that literally.”

“I did take it literally but after you feel asleep on me, I thought you wouldn’t mind me staying longer. Now hurry up and get ready because we are going out.”

Kirsten was getting ready to go out and again talking to herself, ‘Too provocative, too sexy, shit what am I going to wear.’ She sat on her bed suddenly worried what Andrew would think if she wore some of her clothes. She wasn’t a teenager anymore. Her rich female friends were now married and having babies. Now at 25 years old secretly she wanted the same a family but she wanted to be in love. The friends that had this life may have married the money but were having affairs because they were miserable and one thing Kirsten always promised herself was if she ever had a wedding day she was going to be head over heels in love. “Kirsten, are you ready?” Andrew shouted while still waiting for her.

“Just a sec.” as she scrambled to get something on. Once she came out of her room Andrew looked at her and said, “Wow you look amazing.”

“Umm thanks; are we dating now?” Kirsten asked nervously.

Andrew replied, “I thought we sorted this last night but if you are asking if we can see other people then the answer would be no.” 

Kirsten smiled at Andrew as she came closer now inches from his lips, “Then as my boyfriend I need to confess something.” Andrew went to say something but Kirsten stopped him, “I’ve only ever slept with two guys. The others were just dates no more than a kiss and a cuddle.”

Andrew was in shock, “Are you serious?”

“I am and what about you?” Andrew suddenly tensed up, “We better get going.” Getting to the car Kirsten said, “Andrew Morgan you will tell me.”

Strolling around the festival Kirsten stopped and asked, “How long are you staying here?” Andrew answered with his question, “How long are you staying?”

“Only a week but I wish I could stay longer. It is just the house is so crowded and I think I’m getting too old to sleep on a bunk bed.” Andrew put his arms around her and replied, “I can’t throw everyone out of the house and I just wish I could afford a better place for us.” Kirsten was about to say something when music started to play so Andrew insisted they go and dance. 

While they were dancing Andrew started to talk, “Since the day you moved in I started to have feeling for you but as time went on I fell in Love with you. I need to be honest with you, I want it all and I want it with you.” 

Andrew kept a firm grip on Kirsten while dancing then after a few minutes Kirsten spoke, “I am flattered that you love me but I’m scared of rushing this.”

“I’ll wait as long as you need.”

Kirsten stopped the dance and said, “I need a kiss.” Andrew didn’t say anything but embraced her as they kissed. As they slowed down the kiss, Kirsten saw a love machine out of the corner of her eye.  

She grabbed Andrew’s hand and pulled him towards the machine so she could play. Andrew smiled as the results said they were meant to be, “If you are staying for the week, we need to clear something up. We can’t sleep together.”

Andrew looked disappointed, “We have the house all to ourselves and waste a good opportunity…”

“Andrew, it’s my parent’s holiday home. The bed you are sleeping in. Well that’s their bed. Anyway we agreed on taking it slow.” The tension felt horrible as they drove home, once inside Andrew said, “Kirst, I’m sorry I don’t want you to think that I only came for one thing.”

Kirsten sat on the sofa, “I don’t think that. The fact is I think of us sleeping together and I can’t stop but we have just got together and when we get home…it will be crowd and no time to be alone.”

Andrew who was now grinning like a Cheshire cat, “I think about it too. I can’t throw everyone out of the house.”

“I know you can’t but I could move out.”

“Kirsten you will not move out. You can’t afford to after you and Jake told your Dad where to stick his money.”

“I know but can we talk about something else for now?”

Andrew pulled her close embracing her tightly and in a whisper said, “I have a better idea.” Then he kissed her.