Picture Perfect

Chapter 33

TONI'S POV:

After I hang up with Nico, I take the pill. I know it's the right thing to do. I knew it was the right thing as I was speaking to Harry. Harry is out with his mum and Gemma. I'm going to have to leave for Ireland and do the shoot for Niall. Truth be told, I am excited about being back in Ireland. What I saw was positively gorgeous and okay, Niall is handsome too.

Nico assures me he wants to hook up with me, but I know he's somewhat of a player. And then there is the Hailey factor. I really don't want her to feel anger towards me, especially when I know I'm not going to get serious with Niall. He's a great guy but I'm not in any place to be something serious.

I dress comfortably for my flight. I'm driving to Heathrow and catching a flight to Dublin. I decide to go with a white silk blouse that is flowy and a purple and yellow flower print skirt. I feel extremely feminine in this outfit and it will be easy to get through customs. White wedges and some delicate jewelry and I'm down the stairs and into the foyer.

"Hey, Toni. Thank you again so much for everything you've done for us. I can't wait to show the photos to Robin after he gets the large portrait. I don't know how to thank you enough" Anne tells me as she sees me bringing my bags downstairs.

I place the bags down by the front door and give her a huge embrace. She gives me the warmest and heartfelt hug I've experienced in some time; since I last saw my mom. I need to go back to the States and see her soon.

"You are so welcome. The address you provided me, your friends home; she will be receiving those portraits by the day after tomorrow. I wish I could have gotten them to you sooner but they will be there. If you aren't happy with anything, promise me you will call me. You've got my mobile number" I tell her.

"I know they are going to be perfect. Thank you again for your hospitality. We really should get out of your home as you're leaving..."

"No, please. You stay as long as you want. I'll be gone for at least a week, possibly two. This is your home away from home. Harry is staying until he figures out things and you and Gemma are more than welcome to stay as well. There's plenty of food, if you need anything in the way of groceries or anything at all, please call the number on the refrigerator. They will make certain you will get everything you need."

I turn and see Gemma walking towards us.

"Gemma, please – if you want to invite Mike up here to stay here, please do so. I was just telling Anne, my home is yours for as long as you need or want. I'll be gone for nearly three weeks and possibly longer. I'll be heading to London when I'm done with the shoot in Ireland."

Her jaw drops and then shuts quickly.

"Toni, are you serious?"

"Of course, I'm extremely serious" I assure her. "And on that note, it was so wonderful to see you all again, and I hope to see you in the near future. I must head to the airport to catch my plane to Ireland. If you need anything, call the number next to the lamp. That is Hazel's number, my agent. She can always get things taken care of."

I turn and pick up my bags and head out the door. As I walk down the steps, I hear someone behind me call out.

"Toni, wait!"

Turning around, I see Harry running to me. Picking up my bags he takes them to my Aston Martin.

"You can't leave without saying goodbye."

"Sorry, Harry; I have a plane I must catch. Stay as long as you need. You know where everything is. Your mom and Gemma are also welcomed to stay."