Great Expectations. - Now Complete

Chapter 12

The year moved forward to September. As usual, the weather provided a stunning Indian Summer. Although the nation basked in the heat, both Alice and Maureen being heavily pregnant, found it unpleasant. Cynthia took pity on them as living where she was provided a break from the stifling heat in Central London. A get together was arranged. The whole Beatle 'family' invited. George was excited, describing how lovely it would be to laze around in John's pool. Alice found she couldn't muster the enthusiam but still climbed into the car and went with him.

John greeted them. George scooted off and was in the pool within minutes. Alice waddled wearily with John into the garden where he had set up a relaxing chair and footstool for both her and Maureen to chill in the shade. Alice sat down and was immediately presented with a long cool drink which she accepted gratefully. She was left with Maureen, Jane , Cynthia and the children whilst the lads messed around in the water like kids. She listened to their laughter and saw how nice it was for George to be relaxed. maybe George's idea about them buying a house nearby could be a good one afterall.

"You're quiet today Alice," said Jane during a lull in the conversation. "Everything alright?"

She smiled sleepily. "Just so tired," she replied, "The combination of the heat, junior playing football and George's snoring, I can't sleep. I've also got the worst backache I've ever known. I hope the next 5 weeks go quickly!"

Maureen and Cynthia both nodded sympathetically. "Is that when you are due? Five weeks?"

Alice nodded.

"Have you got everything ready?" asked Cyn, "I know when I expecting Julian, I had my bag packed for weeks before!"

"All the main baby stuff is purchased." she told them, "I used the savings I'd put together and then George, bless him, helped too. I'll never forget watching him trying to put the cot together! He was so determined and it looked lovely when it was done." she looked around to see where the lads were, "He recently bought a teddy bear for the baby. He's been practising how to hold it properly and it now sleeps in the cot until junior arrives! He's packed my hospital bag and it's waiting!"

"Awww that's so nice!" Jane smiled.

Alice nodded and looked towards where George now was, "I know, I've been so lucky in meeting him. I love him so much it scares me!" She shuffled uncomforatbly in her seat, "He's even offered to have his name put on the birth certificate rather than leave it blank which is what I was going to have to do."

"You were going to leave it blank? Why?" Maureen was surprised.

"George has asked me to marry him," confided Alice quietly, "I've accepted but I've said not for a while. I want to have more time as a couple, especially once the pressure a baby can add to a relationship starts. We haven't known each other that long and we've not ever been with each other properly if you get my meaning." She paused blushing. "IF we get married, George will legally adopt him or her and then it becomes Harrison. However, I know I feel so strongly that this child needs to know who it's biological father is. Not being truthful could cause problems later." She looked as the other woman listened to her, "But I can't put Tom's name on the birth certificate unless he's present when it's registered." She shrugged. "I sound stupid don't I?"

"Actually, I think you're right." said Maureen, "You want your child to know it's heritage. That's normal. Good for you!"

Alice shuffled around again. She struggled to stand up and groaned.

"Are you alright?" Cyn looked concerned.

"My back! I need to move around a bit. Back in a minute."

The girls watched as she waddled off, her hands pressed into the small of her back.

"Poor Alice, she looks so uncomfortable!"

"They last few weeks of pregnancy are." laughed Maureen, "You'll have all this to come one day!"

Jane gave a sad smile. "I doubt it somehow, at least not with Paul." She paused "Anyway still you're looking well. How come you're not struggling like Alice?"

"Pure luck I guess!" she replied and laughed.

Alice walked down the path towards George was still in the water. She somehow managed to sit in the steps and dangle her feet in. It was deliciously cool but relaxing. She sat there, letting her thoughts wander when suddenly she had water thrown at her. Startled, she looked up to see George stood next to her. Despite her weariness, she felt something stir inside her when she saw him in just his swimwear. He was sexy, she thought, and although he could have any woman her wanted, he was waiting for her! She smiled at him as he joined her on the steps.

"Hey gorgeous!" he said, "How's you?"

"I'm OK?" She leaned over to kiss him, " You looked like you were having fun!"

He laughed. "It's nice just being able to mess around with the lads like we did when we were teenagers every now and then. But being with you and baby is a future I'm looking forward to."

They chatted quietly together for a while, stopping now and then to kiss each other. The others watched them and smiled at their closeness.

"George, wouuld you mind if we went home now?" Alice asked suddenly.

He looked surprised. "Why?"

"I don't feel right." she admitted, "The back pain is getting worse. I feel odd, weary. I just want to get in my own bed and sleep. I'm sorry."

"No, it's fine. Should I call the midwife to check you out?"

"Maybe, " she replied, leaning against him, "Let's see how I feel when I get home."

He helped her to her feet, noticing how the movement seemed to cause more pain. He place his arm around her waist and helped her along the path back to the house.

"John, Cyn, would you mind if Alice and I shoot off. She's not feeling so good."

"No problem mate."

George went to get dressed. Cyn came over to Alice, looking concerned. "How's the back?"

Alice grimmaced. "Hurts like hell and increasing."

Cynthia took her to one side. "How you been like this for long?"

"Few days. Why?"

"You could be in slow labour Alice. That starts in the back and builds up. Have you got tightening anywhere?"

"A bit at the front now and then." she winced.

"Get George to take you to the midwife. Just to be on the safe side."

George returned and took her hand. "Ready babe?"

Nodding, they made their goodbyes then got in the car. Alice remained quiet all the way home, shifting occassionally in her seat. He knew her back was causing her problems again. Once home, he helped her into bed. Their room was cooler now and he was pleased to see she fell asleep quickly. By 9,30pm he too was tired, no doubt the pool fun adding to it. He tiptoed into the room, pleased to see she was still fact asleep. He got into bed beside her. He kissed her hand then whispered Good night to her bump. Then he slept too.