Side Order of Soulmate (WAYHAUGHT)

Chapter 6

"OK, about me going for the airline job," Waverly began, knowing this would be one of those defining conversations in their relationshp.

"Nothing to say I'll get it. But, if I did, I was thinking I would base myself in the UK."

Nicole was silent.

"I haven't got it yet, so no reason to make plans that far in advance, although, if I did and I was in the UK."

Nicole remained silent.

"You could visit, or stay, or..." Waverly paused, scanning Nicole's face for a reaction. "Or, you could live with me. What do you think?"

Further silence.

"If you wanted to. I mean, I think, I guess. Nothing settled, but..."

"You want England," Nicole interrupted, looking directly at Waverly.

"I mean. I'm thinking about it. It would work for me if I get the job, but..."

"You want England," Nicole repeated, her voice firm, her gaze fixed.

"Well, I do. Would it work for you?" Waverly asked hesitantly.

Nicole was silent once more, pondering what she was being asked.

"I want you," she answered.

"Oh God, I want you too, " Waverly affirmed, moving her body closer to Nicole. "In England?"

"Of course, in England. You go, I go."

Waverly squealed in delight, pulling Nicole in to kiss her.

It was settled. Waverly would return to England as soon as her contract working for that family ended and Nicole would join her once her contract finished. In an effort to prolong their time together, they would spend a few days in Paris with Shae. Nicole worked extra shifts to make up for the time she would have off and to give them extra spending money.

Shae's apartment was located in Little Africa, a lively, exotic district on the outskirts of Paris, close to the hospital where she worked as a doctor. The area was well known to tourists seeking to experience Paris by night. Many made their way there after dark to enjoy the sex shops, theatres and adult shows in Pigalle and its surrounding boulevards. As Waverly, Nicole and Shae made their way up the stairs, lugging heavy bags Shae mentioned they had all been invited to a party the following evening, which she had accepted on their behalf.

"Great," Waverly panted, realising Shae's apartment was on a higher floor than she remembered. "I hope I have something decent to wear."

"Red dress," Nicole offered.

After a light meal, they fell into bed, exhausted from their journey.

"I will not let you go," Nicole vowed, as she caressed Waverly's hair.

"To the party?" Waverly questioned, half-asleep, her eyes closed, too tired to have a conversation.

"Forever," Nicole whispered.

They spent the next day strolling around Paris, taking in the sights, enjoying their own company. On entering Shae's apartment they spotted Robinet seated at the dining table, thumbing through a magazine. His arrogance betrayed him as he made no effort to greet the couple. Shae emerged from the kitchen, looking flustered.

"Hope you had a good day. The meal will be ready shortly, if the soufflés behave themselves. Robinet, play nicely," she warned.

Robinet shot her a look to say, "maybe, maybe not."