Something's Brewing

Chapter 12: Fast Forward

As Alec shifted to try and get somewhat comfortable in the the small folding chairs that had been crammed into the school cafeteria, he considered—once Ellie had made up her mind to allow their relationship to be public in Broadchurch, she certainly didn't waste time. Within days of their walk on the beach, she had invited Alec to go to one of Fred's school events with her. That wasn't so different, he had been to his school performances before. But when she reached over to hold his hand, he wondered if his pacemaker could keep up.

He felt silly. Like a teenage boy whose crush had just taken his hand. It wasn't as if he hadn't held hands with her before, kissed her, cuddled with her. And he had been married, even if it was to Tess, it had produced his beautiful Daisy. But for Ellie to take his hand in front of the gossiping ninny's of Broadchurch, it was a bold move for her and had huge meaning for them both.

He glanced over at her and she flashed him one of her brilliant smiles. He smiled back and in his own bold move, moved to put his arm around her.

Needless to say, there were glances and whispers.

They were both thrilled, a bit giddy, and tried to conceal their giggles. Maybe it could be fun to be the latest gossip when it was with someone pleasant that you actually were in a relationship with.

*-*-*-*

It was true, once Ellie Miller had set her mind on something, she didn't back down. That could be said for her relationship with Alec Hardy. It had taken her long enough to open herself up to a relationship with him. And now, even longer to allow their small town to be fully aware of their relationship.

But there had been some boundaries she hadn't crossed with Alec. No matter how much she cared about him—loved him—and he the same, she didn't ever want to seem as if she was taking advantage of their relationship.

She frowned and almost considered hanging up the phone as it dialed, but he picked up before she could.

"Hardy," was his gruff version of a 'hello.'

"Oh, you sound as if you're having a bad day. Sorry I bothered you, we can talk later," she quickly replied, hoping to conceal that she had a special reason for calling.

"Oh, El. I'm sorry, I didn't look at the caller ID. Just a bit annoyed with SOCO. They seem to be dragging their heels on the report I need to close this case I'm working on." He paused and frowned, realizing she was calling in the middle of both their work days. "Is everything okay, El? You're in Sandbrook following that lead on your own case, do you need me to track something down here?"

"No, no. Just—" she tried to quickly come up with an excuse. "Just thought I'd see how you were doing."

He frowned. "No you're not. That's not like you. We don't just 'chat' during the day, El. What is it you aren't telling me?" he pushed his question.

She sighed. "It's just—well I just got a call from the school. Tom is sick and needs to be picked up. And Lucy and Dad can't do it. And—"

"And why am I the last on the list and not the first?" he gently asked. He knew the answer, but he needed her to acknowledge it.

Ellie sighed, again, and spoke quietly, "I just don't want to impose on you, Alec. I know you like the boys, but you didn't sign up for—"

He interrupted her. "I don't like your boys, El."

"What?" her response was an octave higher, both confused and shocked by his short statement.

"I don't like your boys." he repeated, then paused for effect. "I love them, El. I love them like—like they were my own. Surely you know that. I don't want to be the last person you call when you need help. Ever. For anything. I want to be the first. Call the school back and tell them I'll be right over to pick him up."