1.46 The result

Hazel looked at the stick, her hand was shaking as she looked at the box to check what the result was because this was one moment in time she couldn’t be wrong.

Matt turned her to face him and asked, “Well, what is going to be are we parents or not.” Hazel looked at him not knowing what was the right or wrong answer then Matt added, “I’m sorry for the hurtful things I said. I just don’t know how to deal with the little things…” Hazel stopped him and replied, “You mean my clothes etc.” Matt nodded and Hazel added, “I should have packed lighter…”

“Haz, what was the result?” 

She wrapped her arms around him and replied, “I’m not pregnant.”

“You sound relieved, Haz?”

She smiled and held him tighter, “I am because it means we get to know each other better but I reserve the right to plan our wedding even if I have to wait a few years.” Matt laughed, “Fine but talk to me if you want a baby, ok?”

“Well I do want the baby but I can wait…well a little bit.” Mathew sighed, “What if I said wait till after we are 21?” Hazel looked puzzled, “That is just under a year for me and almost 2 years for you.”

Matt smiled, “I know just in time for the wedding.” Hazel was shocked, “Hang on; we would still have 2 years left in university.”  

Matt held her tighter and replied, “I was teasing Haz. I would get married tomorrow but us being parents…come on can you honestly see it?”

Hazel thought for a moment and said, “Not really, ok I’ll wait till we graduate but can we talk about it then?” 

Matt kissed and whispered in her ear, “Yes.”

Jake and Kay were enjoying some quality time in the local park when Jake asked, “When are you coming home?” Kay sighed, “I know you miss me being home but I need to be here to study.”

“Kay the nights are the worst and…” Kay kissed him before he could say anymore, “I know they are but in a few weeks I get to come home for 2 weeks as I’ll be doing some training at the local hospital.” 

Jake had a beaming smile and pinned her to the ground, “Jake, we are in a public place.”

“I don’t care if you don’t.” Kay tried to protest but it was too late she got lost in his eyes and without warning he’d moved her jeans downwards, unzipped his trousers and entered her. Kissing her all the time to muffle her screams of pleasure while making sure no-one could see any part of Kay’s naked body that was exposed.

When they arrived back at the dormitory, Kay kissed him and said, “I can’t believe you did that me.”

“I heard no complaints…”

“That’s not the point Jake. We could have been caught!” Jake smiled wickedly at Kay, “But we weren’t caught. Now let’s go upstairs and repeat what we just did.” 

They just got to the bottom of the stairs when they heard Matt, “Oh no you don’t. Hazel and I are going bowling and you are coming with us.”

Kay looked at Matt, “You and Hazel made up then?” Matt just smiled and replied, “We did but she is getting ready.” Kay ran up the stairs and went to see Hazel.

When she entered the room she saw Hazel checking herself in the mirror, “Are you and Matt really ok now?”

Hazel turned around and replied, “Yes we are. He said I can start to plan our wedding, so in 2 years we can get married or we can marry earlier if I don’t want the big wedding but I do want the big day.”

Kay sat on the bed and asked, “And what about having a baby?” 

Hazel sat next to Kay, “After arguing and me doing a test…”

“What?”

“I’m not pregnant but we now agree even though I want a family now, we will wait till after graduation.”

“And the business?”

“Matt is going to talk to Estevan and tell him how I really feel. We have a life in Lucky Palms and I don’t know that I want to move.”

“Well four years is a long time and you might want to move, I mean anything is possible.”

“I guess, look at the time the boys will kill us if we aren’t down stairs in 2 minutes.” Kay ran out of the room and down the hallway to her room to get ready.

Jake sat watching TV while waiting for the girls to come downstairs while Matt was on the phone to Estevan, “Are you alright with this?”

“To clarify things, you want to get married before the end of university and you don’t want the business because you may not move back home. Did I miss anything?”

“No.”

“I won’t stand in your way after all you are an adult so I remove the deal. However your university placements for you and Hazel I will continue to pay for as long as you stay.” Matt said thank you and then ended the call.

1.45 Letting it all out

Matt wanted to yell but no words would come out so he left the room and slammed the door instead. Hazel went after him asking him to listen but he ignored her pleas. 

Jake and Kay could hear the commotion and went to see what was going on. Most of the dormitory was listening but eventually Jake shooed them away to give Matt and Hazel privacy. Then Kay grabbed Jake’s arm and said quietly that it looked like they needed to be alone.

“Mathew please say something, anything.” Matt wasn’t sure whether he should cry or yell but firmly asked, “You knew how I felt about you so why did you feel you needed to do this?”

“I never gave children a thought until her stunt and the idea of someone else having a baby with you made me angry. A small part of me thought you would leave me to be Dad with her. I want everything with you.”

Matt turned to her and said, “You mean trick me into staying with you…”

“No I…”

“You should never of pulled this stunt…are you pregnant?”

“I don’t know.”

“When you know, you can find me on the couch.”

“Are you leaving me?”

“We will discuss things when you have the result of the pregnancy test.” Hazel went to leave the room but before she left she added, “You should know Matt, I love you and you have every right to be mad but I did it because I see our future together and Deb made me realise that. It is no excuse but it’s the truth.”

Kay walked in to find Matt trying to eat breakfast, “Do you want to talk about it?” He sighed and said, “I need to work this out but thanks anyway.”

“You know where I am if you change your mind.” 

Jake walked in and wrapped his arms around Kay, “Come on we don’t want to be late.” Kay smiled and Matt asked, “Going anywhere nice?”

“Just the cinema,” Jake answered. Matt asked, “Are you going to be gone all day?”

“Why?”

“Kay, can I sleep in the spare bed in your room until you get back?” Kay looked with concern, “Is everything ok?”

“I’ll be fine I just need to sleep. I will explain but not now.”

Matt tried to sleep but it was no good. All he could think about was the betrayal. It was true he loved her with all his heart, after all that is why he asked her to marry him but what he couldn’t understand was why Hazel felt the need to get pregnant on purpose. If she was pregnant then he would feel like he was trapped but if she wasn’t then how would they get through this?

Matt looked up and saw Hazel in the doorway. Every time he looked at her all he felt was love but at the same time disappointment that she couldn’t trust him.

“I’m not ready to talk, Hazel.”

“Please Matt, I can’t stand this.” He looked into those beautiful blue eyes and felt nothing but love but he needed time to make the right decision.

“Please leave.” 

He held open the door and closed it behind her. 

Hazel ran back to their room and cried into the bed and thought, ‘How could you be so stupid. Here is a man that wants to marry you and what do you do stop taking the pill. What did you expect him to say, it’s ok hunny, I’m so happy. Now I’ve blown it and the best man is about to walk out of my life and it’s all my fault.’ It had been six weeks since she had stopped taking the pill so it was entirely possible she was pregnant. She was due on in a few days so she would know then but panic set in. What if she came on but she was pregnant? Hazel couldn’t wait so went to the shop to get a test kit. She had heard that you could get ones that could detect an early pregnancy.

Hazel came back and waited for the bathroom to be clear but the test fell out of her bag as a girl was entering and when she saw the test she ran to tell Matt. 

While she was waiting Matt walked in and asked, “What is the result?” Hazel looked upset at him, “I’m so sorry but would it be so bad?”

“I don’t know. We are supposed to plan for things like this, you know a joint decision. If you are pregnant how are we supposed to support our baby while we are at university? I want us to support ourselves not be living on hand outs. My parents did that but I want to have the home and career in place before we have our family.” 

Hazel yelled back, “What if we fell pregnant by accident, I mean the pill doesn’t always work.”

Matt was furious, “But you’re not on the pill, Hazel.”

 “You are right but I was scared of losing you to Debs and I…I wasn’t thinking clearly.”

“If this is going to work, you have to trust me and tell me how you are feeling, agreed?” Hazel nodded and gave a half smile. “What does the test say?” 

Hazel looked at the result then turned to Matt who now embraced her, “Well are we going to be parents or not?”

Hazel asked, “Are you ok with it either way?”

“Yes I’m ok either way. I love you, so what is the result?” 

1.44 Shocking revelation

Kay had been looking forward to this weekend all week. Her plans were to be in bed most of the weekend wrapped in his arms but here she was comforting Hazel. “Do you want to talk about it?” 

Hazel looked at her and softly said, “Ever since that bitch said she was pregnant with Matt’s baby, it’s all I can think about.”

Kay sighed and said, “You want a baby and Matt doesn’t, am I right?”

“It’s not just that. We have to wait 4 years to get married. I mean it’s great being here but I feel like I’m being told what to do. I’m not saying I want to marry Matt tomorrow but I want to marry him when we are ready not when Estevan says so.”

“Matt speaks very fondly of his Uncle and he told me about this business offer…”

“Then you know he is trying to run our life.” Kay could see her point and asked, “Have you spoken to Matt about how you feel?”

“I’ve tried but he thinks I’m over reacting.”
Jake listened to Matt explain and then said, “So you have no idea why she is mad at you?” Matt slumped in his chair and replied, “Honestly, not a clue. Tonight was the first time in a few days she let me kiss her, her blue eyes were screaming no begging me to love her but she won’t.”

Jake raised his eyebrow and asked, “So you think this is about sex?”

“What? No, I don’t…Jake I love her but something is wrong and she isn’t telling me.”

“Or maybe you don’t want to hear it.”

Matt clenched his teeth and asked firmly, “What is that supposed to mean?”

“I know the deal you made with Estevan. That’s why you are here at university.”

“Listen I always wanted to come here…”

“I know that Matt but think for a minute, you are being dangled a carrot on a string only if you do as he says. You get a business if you don’t get married. And let’s not forget the bitch from hell, Deb.”

“Hazel was ok accepting the deal…”

“She said yes because you asked her too. I mean it is a great offer but is it what you both really want. If Deb hadn’t pulled the stunt she didn’t maybe Hazel would have gone along with it but since that night, you have to admit things haven’t been right.”

“After Deb, I asked her to marry me at city hall…” Jake shouted, “You were in a state that you were going to lose her.”

“This was ages ago.”

“Matt, woman hold on to things until the last minute then let us know how they really feel. Look, talk to her and sort things out. Now if you don’t mind, I have plans for tonight that don’t include you or Hazel.”

Their hands were all over each other as they landed on the bed, “I missed you.”

“I missed you too, baby.”

Hazel was furious with Matt, “Now you want to talk. Maybe I don’t want too.”

Matt yelled back, “What the hell do you want me to say, I’m sorry.”

“No that is not it. I was happy in my job…” Matt interrupted her, “Then go back to your job but I’m staying.”

“Fine.”

“Haz, try being honest for once. This is about having to wait to get married and the business deal that is on offer.”

“Let’s be honest then, yes I hate the fact that you went along with the plan and agreed that we have to wait to get married. Did you ever ask me?”

“Yes I did and you said yes so why now are you upset?”

“Because the more I think about it the more I’m upset with being controlled.”

“I begged you to marry me after what Deb did but you wanted the big wedding.”

Hazel now lost her tempered and screamed, “I also want a baby but you don’t,” 

Hazel collapsed and through tears added, “Have you any idea what the thought of another woman having your baby did to me even though we found out she was lying. It cut me like a knife.” 

Matt pulled her in, holding her close and said, “I want a family with you but not like this. It has to be right for us. As for the business I’ll say no to Uncle Estevan if it’s what you really want but as for university I really do want to stay and I’d really like you to stay.”

“The business is where you grew up and we have a life in Lucky Palms…” Matt looked her in the eye and said, “Then I will talk to him but don’t be surprised if he wants to talk to you.”

“Do we really have to wait 4 years to get married?”

“No we don’t have too.”

“But he said…”

“Haz, he was testing us. He wanted to see how we really felt about each other and the fact you did argue with him means he was impressed. Look, I love you but I would like to wait a while before getting married…” Hazel was upset and tried to pull away but Matt wouldn’t let her go. “How long is a while?”

“2 years but if you want to start planning it I won’t object.” Hazel was pleased they had finally talked and then said, “Matt I need to tell you something.” Matt looked at her and quietly asked, “What is it?”

“Please don’t be mad at me…”

“Haz, what have you done?” Hazel looked ashamed as she looked Matt in the eye, “When Deb pulled that stunt about having your baby…well you have to understand my mind was all over the place…”

Matt said firmly through the anger building up inside, “Hazel.”

She took a deep breath and said, “I stopped taking the pill and the last few weeks we have had unprotected sex.”

1.43 Double Date

Kay kept looking at the clock and taping her pen on the desk and thinking, ‘I need Jake, and I wonder how far away he is now?’

“Are we interrupting anything Miss Lace?” Kay looked up to see her professor standing there, “No professor…”

“Good then maybe you can answer the question.” Kay thought, ‘Shit what was the question.’ Just then the bell went and the professor said, “Lucky for you the bell went. Read pages 50 to 150 by Tuesday and don’t forget the test will be next Friday, dismissed.” 

Kay walked outside and saw Jake standing there; she threw her bag down and fell into his arms. She could here remarks around her, “He is hot. How did she land him? When he’s bored of her, he can knock my door anytime.”

When their lips finally parted Kay asked, “Where is Matt and Hazel?”

“They are unpacking their things. Now you will have company when I’m not here.” Kay just smiled at Jake. As they walked to the car Kay asked, “How are you after the other day?”  

Jake leaned against the car holding her, “I saw them last night but can we get home and talk about it?” Kay agreed and they drove home in silence but when the door closed Jake opened up, “They told me that I held Ava. I thought she was a pretty doll.”

“Hun, I’m sorry, do you remember any of it?”

“I remember some but not a lot but we are holding a service and I was hoping you would be there?”

“Of course I will just let me know when. Are you alright, knowing all this?”

“I’m getting there but can we talk about something else because I want to enjoy my time here with you?” 

Kay smiled and asked, “What are we going to do then?”

Jake smiled as he got up and Kay looking a little disappointed, “Where you off too?”

Looking at her with a devilish smile, “I’m going out and so are you.”

“Where are you taking me?”

“Matt and I decided we would take you and Hazel out. So get dressed up and be ready in 30 minutes.”

Hazel saw Kay outside and hugged her, “It’s great to see you. Who is that guy staring at us?” Kay looked over and replied, “Apparently he thinks he is god’s gift to women. He tried it on with me but I put him straight.” 

Suddenly Kay felt arms come around her waist as Jake kissed her neck slowly and then he said loud enough for the guy staring, “There will be more of that later.” Kay bit her lip and quietly asked, “Do you know what you have done?”

“I’ve made sure he backs off you.” Kay firmly said, “Not him…me?”

Jake smiled kissing her again, “Yeah I know but taking you now won’t be half as much fun as when I take you later,” then he nibbled her ear and Kay wanted to collapse but Jake kept his firm hold on her. Matt was about to say something when he caught Hazel’s face. 

He ran his hand across her cheek then held her and asked, “What’s up?”

“They are being all loved up and you and I are just standing here like we are just friends.” Matt put his finger on her lips and replied, “I get your point,” slowly planting a kiss on her soft lips as he felt her body react to his touch. Then he asked, “Any better?” Hazel bit her lip and stared at him sweetly.

When the taxi turned up Kay grabbed Matt’s arm and Jake shouted, “Hay, I’m your boyfriend.”

Kay smirked, “I know but I want to talk to Matt.” She turned back to Matt, “How are your Mum and Dad getting on?”

“Way too well. I caught them when they almost…” Kay laughed, “Matt, just be happy for them.”

When they arrived at the restaurant the girls were shocked, “Jake this restaurant seems expensive?”

“Don’t worry about it and just enjoy.” 

They were shown to the table and once food was ordered the girls started to gossip ignoring the boys. “What wedding is Kirsten planning?”

Hazel replied, “She and Andrew are having it at the house but Laura is trying to take over but Andrew asked Laura to back down with the help of Daniel.”

Kay asked eagerly, “Have they set a date?”

“Nope but it won’t be long before they do.” The boys just sat and watched them carry on as they didn’t even notice them staring. Then they turned to each other and Jake asked, “What is this fascination that girls have with weddings?”

“It’s about love etc but with girls it’s the outfits and shoes. I’m learning Hazel has way too many clothes and shoes.” Then he heard Hazel’s voice, “I don’t have too many clothes.” Matt didn’t want an argument so didn’t reply. Jake just grinned watching them have their little spat.

Matt suddenly snapped at Jake, “What’s so funny?”

“You and Haz arguing. Are you both ok?” Hazel could feel herself wanting to cry so she went outside.

Jake looked stunned and asked, “Matt I was joking, what is going on?” Kay excused herself and went to see Hazel. Matt looked at Jake and said, “I think she wants to leave me.”