One day at a time. (Part 2 of the story of Joanne and Paul. Now complete!)

Chapter 11 - 29th December 2000

Jo climbed into the taxi and settled herself next to Paul. He took her hand and gently kissed it.

"You look stunning! Absolutely amazing! Thank you for agreeing to come with me."

Jo smiled, trying to hide how nervous she actually was. The journey was brief as the hotel wasn't far. On arriving, a crowd was waiting, as well as numerous TV cameras and photographer.

"I didn't think there'd be so many people and things!" she exclaimed.

Paul squeezed her hand. "Don't worry. Smile. Wave when I do. We'll pose for a couple of pictures then go in. OK?"

"As I'll ever be!"

Paul got out of the taxi. Immediately people began to scream and shout his name. He waved then turned his attention back to Jo. Taking her hand, he helped her emerge from the taxi gracefully. There was more shouting. Press were calling Paul's name and asking who his guest was. Jo said nothing but smiled politely and held Paul's hand. He stopped and signed some autographs and even pulled her into some fan photos with him. Jo found the whole situation surreal! This would have been her fan dream not so long ago!. When fans spoke to her she answered them politely but gave little away, aware that Paul was very guarded about his private life. Finally, Paul took her hand once more, waved for one last time and then took her inside.

Once inside the hotel, Jo felt slightly more relaxed.

"OK?" Paul asked, squeezing her hand.

She nodded, smiling up at him.

"Right, let's find our table then I'll introduce you to some people who are dying to meet you!"

"Meet me?"

"Well yes!" Paul smiled at the surprise in her voice, "When you're in love with someone you want to tell everyone...well I have done just that. I've told all my friends about you!" He gave her a quick but loving kiss on her lips before leading her into a smart dining room which was full of people milling around and talking. Several people greeted him eagerly. He acknowledged them but did not stop until they reached a table at the very front of a stage in the room.

"Paul mate! How y'doing? You're looking great!" Someone greeted Paul and enveloped him in a big man hug. Jo stood by, watching. "And I'm guessing this stunning woman must be Joanne I've heard so much about?"

Jo blushed as Paul pulled her forward. "Jo my love, this is Richie. One of my oldest and dearest friends. And Richie, this is indeed Joanne. The woman I adore!"

"It's great to meet you at last, I've been hearing all about you!" said Richie, offering Jo his hand as she gave him a polite hello in return. Sitting down afterwards with Paul it dawned on her who Richie was! She had just met and shook hands with the one and only Ringo Starr! Jo began to shake! Fan dreams coming true again!

"You OK?" Paul whispered, feeling her nervousness.

"I've just met Ringo Starr!" she whispered back, awe in her voice." Ringo Starr! He was a Beatle!" She began to giggle nervously.

Paul couldn't help but laugh. "What did you expect?" he asked softly, "I knew all The Beatles once!" He chuckled more then passed her a glass of wine. "Relax!" he told her softly, kissing her gently.

Jo sipped her wine slowly as she waited for the food to be served. Their table was set for six people. Paul, herself, Ringo, and his wife Barbara made four. She wondered who the other guests were going to be. Suddenly Paul stood up and walked across the room. Jo watched him greet an older grey haired man and shake his hand. After speaking a few brief words, both walked towards the table. The man sat down opposite Paul and Joanne. Jo smiled nervously at him then looked at Paul.