Just Rose

41

Rose had him drop her at the cottage when they got back into town. She couldn't face the noise of the men upstairs crashing around, pulling down walls and causing chaos in their new living area. She wanted quiet, time to lay down and sleep and some space to pull herself together. She knew her head was too full of suspicion over Morag's involvement and didn't want to cause any more arguments; she knew she had been unfair on him, distant and self-absorbed and told him that she would come home tonight if he just let her have some head space.

He kissed her warmly, understanding that need to deal with something alone, assuring her that she was to call anytime she wanted him to come and he would. That if she wanted to stay here tonight he would too. She felt grateful, tearfully held him close as he stroked her hair gently.

'I'm sorry I'm being this way.' She rested her face against his chest, his hand stroking her back tenderly.

'There is nothing to be sorry for. You're upset and tired. Take all the time you need.' He kissed her on top of the head gently.

'Stop being so understanding. I know I'm being awful.' She raised her chin to look at him, those perfect stormy grey eyes, warm and inviting, even though she was being hell on earth.

'No more awful than I can be baby. Just try and relax. Go to bed and enjoy the quiet. I have work stuff to take care of, but I will only be a phone call away. I'll drop anything and come over if you need me.'

'I love you so much.' Her voice was fierce and raw, the doubts of insecurity gnawing at her because she felt like she was pushing him away.

'I know you do, but I love you more.' He pinched her cheek and rested his arms about her shoulders, smiling down at her adoringly.

'I bet you don't.' Rose broke into a smile, despite her aching heart, his face close and comforting and his ability to just always make her feel so safe and secure, overwhelming her.

'I am pretty sure I could prove it.' His eyes had started twinkling suggestively and she buried her face against him with a giggle, loving his ability to always involve sex.

'You don't need to prove it, I already believe you.' She held him close, breathing in his familiar smell that was only him, before turning her chin up towards his face once more with a twinkle in her own eye. 'Maybe you could, though, later, when I come home?'

'Anytime.' He laughed now, kissing her on the forehead lightly and ruffling her hair. 'Just call me and I'll come straight back, I promise.'

'I just need some time, a little nap and quiet. I just need to pull myself together in normal surroundings, away from all those strangers and chaotic mess. I need to absorb everything and pack up some of Muffins things for him coming home when he's well. It will make me feel better.'

'They won't be around for long, things will be more normal soon baby. Just think of our new little love nest. That's what's keeping me going. And a special place to keep Muffin out of harm's way.'