ONE HEART

Chapter 27 Surviving

Mariah was so happy when Nick said that to her. She knew that her dad would use every means necessary to track Devon down! She could live with that. As long as he didn't end up in jail too. Tessa more or less moved in with Mariah, while the search for Devon continued. It made Mariah feel safe, knowing Tessa was there. They had separate rooms of course! Gwen and Blake were happy with the situation. Because they knew Tessa would not want to be anywhere else. They also got Tessa to phone Devon's brother Neil. To find out if she still had a recording deal or not. As far as Neil was concerned, nothing had changed at all. He did tell her to take some time off to look after Mariah. It was the least he could do, after what his brother had allegedly done to Mariah. Tessa didn't know how to take that last bit of his statement. Did that mean he didn't believe Mariah? Maybe, it just meant he needed to hear his brother admit to it first. Anyway, whatever the reason, Tessa decided to leave it there and not argue with him. Tessa had also Facetimed Lola. She needed someone to talk to outside of everything that was happening. Lola was still in London. Finishing her final year.

I wish I could be there in person for you said Lola. But, I'm also so glad you have Mariah in your life now. Even though she's had to go through this horrendous ordeal. Yes, thank you. This would have never happened though to Mariah. If I hadn't insisted that we tell Devon and Sally. "Tessa" It's not your fault what Devon did to Mariah! You have no blame here. Thanks for reassuring me said, Tessa. I hope they get him soon, so it puts you and Mariah's minds at rest, knowing he is behind bars. I hope it's soon too said Tessa. Because I'm having all these nightmares breaking in. Stop that right now said, Lola. He's not worth having nightmares about. Why don't you get out into the fresh air? Try and clear your mind a bit. I would said Tessa. But Mariah doesn't want to leave the house, at all. Well, try and encourage her too. It sounds like you could both do with it. Tessa thanked Lola for the peep talk. I'm always here for you said Lola. And for Mariah too, now that you hope to be together. Tessa had also encouraged Mariah to call Kevin. I don't know if I can tell him said Mariah.

Of course, you can said Tessa. You told him how you felt about me. He's your best friend. The one you can say anything to. And not be judged by. You are right about that said Mariah. I know, I'll go next door for some fresh clothes, and do some laundry while I'm there. That should give you some time to call him. I don't want to listen in, on your conversation with him. You need some privacy. And I'll only be next door, if you need me said Tessa. She gave Mariah a little kiss, as she left the room. Tessa told Nick and Sharon what was happening before she left the house. Gwen was in the kitchen when Tessa entered the house. Hi love, how's it going over there? Painfully said Tessa. Mariah doesn't want to leave the house. I've just come home for some fresh clothes and do some laundry. If that is okay? Yeah, of course. You should find the machines empty. Is Mariah okay with you leaving the house? Err, yes I think so. I've encouraged her to call her best friend Kevin. I also told Sharon and Nick, what I was going to do. Oh that's good said Gwen. No news on catching Devon? I wish said Tessa. I think once he is under lock and key, Mariah will start to breathe easily. 

But no sign of the cops getting him yet. Mariah knew she would have to tell Kevin at some point. As Tessa said, he is her best friend after all. And he would be most upset if he found out what had happened to Mariah from someone else. She reluctantly picked up the phone and dialled his number. He's always had such a lovely bubbly voice. Hi Mariah, long time no hear from. Hi Kevin, yeah I'm sorry a lot has been happening. Really? Oh great. I love a good gossip. I'm also sorry, we've not had time to meet up for a coffee or anything said Kevin. Police work keeps me well-occupied. I'm sure it does said, Mariah. Have you heard about Devon? Err well, I have heard a rumour, that an arrest warrant is out for him. Is it true? asked Kevin a little worried. Yes, I'm afraid it is true said Mariah. I have a lot to tell you. Sounds like it said, Kevin. Would you like to do this face-to-face? Err, no Kevin sorry. I will find it easier to tell you over the phone. If you have the time to listen that is? said Mariah. I sure do said Kevin. I'll tell my PA not to disturb me unless it's life or death.