Down All Your Darkest Roads

Chapter Thirteen

John stayed in hospital for three days, returning just in time to record the music video for Big Love, the first single off their album. He looked healthier than Christine had seen him in years and seemed to be sticking to his promise to stay sober. With John in good form, Christine was able to shift her focus back into work. Big Love was a huge success and set the stage for what was to be a stellar reception for Tango in the Night. They rode the natural high that came with a hit single but as always, not everyone was happy.

Stevie was bitter over Seven Wonders failing to be the first release despite campaigning long and hard for it. She made her grievances known to an unmoved Lindsey who essentially said 'I produced this album; therefore I decide what is released first'. Tension rose between the two once again, and Stevie sulked around the music video set with a glass of wine in hand, making the experience awkward for everyone.

In an attempt to lift Stevie's spirits, Christine took her out to buy a dog. The couple ended up with two gorgeous lhasa apsos they named Rosie and Layla; and together, the four of them made an eccentrically adorable little family. Christine's heart felt full and she was sick of hiding her relationship from Mick and Lindsey. She wanted to love her beautiful partner and co 'dog mum' openly and honestly without feeling guilty or ashamed, so she was relieved when Stevie expressed the same thoughts.

"Yeah, let's get it over and done with. I mean, it should be glaringly obvious by now but they're either clueless or in denial". Stevie said while they sat in the backyard watching their babies play fight over a chew toy.

Christine kissed her firmly. "I love you. If they have a shitty reaction it doesn't change the way I feel about you."

Stevie kissed her back and giggled when Rosie bounded into her lap, not wanting to miss out on the affection. "If they act like assholes we'll break their legs or break our contracts, whatever comes first."

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Feeling extremely nervous, Christine invited the boys over the next day. Every possible outcome from the 'Big Reveal' raced through her mind and she tried reminding herself there was no point stressing over something she couldn't control. Stevie, despite all her conviction and threats of physical violence, was on edge too. She put on a brave face, but jumped every time a car slowed down in front of their house, her eyes darting to the door like a frightened deer.

John arrived first and tried to reassure them in his quiet way that everything will be all right and Mick and Lindsey will get over it eventually. Christine and Stevie were fondly watching him scratch the back of Layla's ears when the doorbell rang.

Flustered, Christine tripped over the yapping dogs as she made her way to the door. Stevie promptly went into the kitchen to pour herself a large glass of brandy.

"Hi, Mick, Lindsey." She greeted the pair in a high-pitched voice that didn't sound like her own.

"Hello, darling girl." Mick grinned, bending down to kiss her on the cheek.

Lindsey gave her a hug and knelt to pat Rosie and Layla who were sniffing his shoes curiously. Christine was pleased to see he appeared to be in a good mood.

"Stevie's?" He asked, nodding at the dogs.

"Um, no, they're both of ours." Christine said. "Can I get you lads a drink?"

"Oh, no thanks. I'm trying to follow Johnny's footsteps and get back on the straight and narrow." Mick announced sombrely.

"That's good to hear."

"Yes, he's an inspiration to us all-Hi, Stevie!" Mick's eyes brightened when Stevie walked into the room. "You're looking a bit pale, love. Not feeling well?"