Yesterday - Now Complete

Part 18

Annie felt something on her face, forcing her to open her eyes. She was surprised to find Paul kneeling by her side of the bed, smiling down at her.

"Morning beautiful."

She gave him a sleepy smile as she looked at him. "You're dressed! Why?"

"I mentioned last night that I have to work this morning. Sorry love."

She nodded. Oh yes, I remember! What time is it?"

Almost 9.30 am. I've been tiptoeing around so as not to wake you." 

Annie sat up, holding the cover over her nakedness. Paul leaned over and kissed her softly.

"How are you feeling this morning Annie my darling?"

She blushed as she remembered the previous night but smiled. "Good. Happy and very relaxed."

Paul gave a soft laugh. "Me too." He became serious again. " Annie, I'm working until about 12.30. I'll ring if it's any longer. You will still be here when I get back....won't you? Please?"

"Of course I will."

He looked delighted. "Good. There's something I want to talk to you about before I take you back to your parents."

"What about?"

Paul gave her another kiss then stood up. "That my dearest Annie, would be telling. See you later my love." Then with one last kiss, he was gone.

Still tired, Annie lay down again and tried to sleep but couldn't. Instead different thoughts whirled around her head. She focused on what was preoccupying her mind and reached some decisions. Then, feeling much more settled, drifted back off to sleep. Paul, as promised, returned just a few minutes after 12.30 pm. He was surprised and a little worried to not be able to find Annie in the living or the kitchen. Convinced she'd left and returned to her parent's house without him, he mounted the stairs three at a time to check the bedroom. To his delight but also concern, there she was, still in bed sound asleep. Once more he knelt by the bed.

"Annie! Annie sweetheart!" He gently tapped her hand to wake her.

Her eyes fluttered open and she looked at him. "Are you still here? What's wrong?"

"I was going to ask you the same thing Annie!"

"What do you mean?" She was more awake now.

"Annie, I left you in bed at 9.30! It now almost quarter to one! Are you alright? I didn't hurt you or anything last night did I?"

Annie sat up. She took Paul's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "Paul I'm perfectly fine, I promise. I'm just so tired that I sleep when I can these days." She paused. "To be honest, since the accident and loosing Anthony, I've not been able to sleep very well. I keep having flashbacks to when we saw the bus and knew it was going to hit us!" She paused, fighting back tears once more. "Damn tears again! I didn't think I had more left with all the crying I've done!!"

"Hey come on. I thought we agreed tears were good. Let those feelings out, not hold them in!" He put his arms around her and held her as she sobbed. "So you managed to sleep last night and this morning?"

She nodded.

"Good. The rest will help you no end Annie love."

"I do feel a lot better, I have to admit."

"Why don't you grab a shower and get dressed whilst I make you and me some lunch?"

"That sounds lovely. Thanks Paul."

"My pleasure Annie." He leaned over and kissed her deeply. Annie responded, wanting him once more.

"Oh Paul!" she moaned breathlessly.