It was the first time in 5 years that Francesca Kirby had woken up with a smile on her face. She looked up at the photo of her daughter, Paige, that was on the wall. She kissed it (as she did every morning) and then did something she's never done before. She took it off the wall and placed it in her pocket. She breathed a sigh of relief which was a bit louder than anticipated. It was so loud it woke her cell-mate Lisa. "Today's the day, Cesca!! Are you ready?" Lisa spoke, half asleep. "I've never been more ready for anything in my life. Today is the first day of the rest of my life. I've got my hubby Jonah, my daughter Paige and they're all i need." Cesca looked at Lisa, who was crying. "I'll miss you Cesca.. You're the nicest cell-mate i've ever had!!" Lisa was more alert now. "I'll miss you, too." Cesca would miss Lisa. Lisa had helped her in prison, listened to all her problems, listened about the Jonah situation and not judged. Lisa was amazing and Cesca was never going to forget it.
Meanwhile, 5 minutes away at a flat in Rochdale, Jonah Kirby awoke. He glanced at his clock, which said 10:02. Oops, he'd overslept a tad, but it didnt matter. He had two days off work now. He looked to his left and saw his daughter snoozing under the covers. She had her thumb in her mouth and her teddy Boris under her arm. Jonah laughed quietly. He layed back in his bed, then shot up.He remembered what day it was today. His beloved wife, Cesca Kirby, would be coming home today. Jonah was angry at himself. How could such a huge thing have slipped his mind?! Cesca would be coming out of prison in one hour and 58 minutes and he couldnt WAIT!!
Cesca walked outside the prison and breathed in the cold air. She breathed in the cold air and laughed hysterically. She was FINALLY FREE! She looked around teh car park expecting Jonah to be there with Paige, but he wasnt. She sat on the wall, not caring that it was wet. Had he forgotten her? Was he with someone else? No, that wouldnt be it. He loved Cesca. Why wasn't he here like he'd promised?
Chapter 2
dy, where are we going?" Paige asked. Jonah didn't reply. This was a surprise for her, too/ He didn't want to ruin it for her. Paige didn't know why her mummy was away. She didn't know her mummy was in a prison. They'd always managed to hide that, quite well. It didn't matter today though, because Cesca wasnt going to be dressed in unflattering prison overalls. She was doing to be wearing her own clothes. Jeans, probably. She'll be wearing her white coat with black rims that Jonah loved. Jonah knew her so well. The thought of seeing her again, this time permanently was such an exciting prospect for him.
He drove 5 minutes to where the prison was and saw his wife sitting on the wall, looking upset. He walked quietly towards her and Paige shouted - "MUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Cesca looked up and wore a smile the size of the moon. She ran towards her baby girl, picking her up when they reached on another. She hugged her tightly, while Jonah looked on, smiling with pride at his two girls.
Cesca looked at her daughter, taking in every little detail about her. She had seen her every week since she was born but had tried to distance herself a bit so that she could have this moment. Paige had her Mummy's eyes and mouth, but Daddy's little ears and nose. She had jet black long hair as well - definitely a trait from her mummy. Cesca noticed her hair smelled of coconut - Jonah's favorite scent. This made her laugh as well. She looked over Paige's head and saw her knight in shining armour, Jonah. "Hello beautiful" "Hello handsome!!" Cesca flung her arms around her man. They passionately kissed, not hearing Paige say "get a room!" "I love you, Jonah Kirby!" Cesca told him truthfully. "I love you too, Francesca Kirby!" "Francesca? Cesca will do fine!" She laughed at her goofball hubby. "Sorry babe!" Jonah kissed her again, lifted his daughter onto his shoulders, grabbed the hand of his free wife and walked to the car. Finally they were a proper, together family. Like they'd always wanted.
They arrived home. Jonah had bought the flat when Cesca was in prison and had decorated it exactly how Cesca would have wanted it. He was excited to show her what he had done. He had one more surprise for her though. "You let us in babe. " "what?" "youve never let us in this house, so do it now!" "jonah?" "Cesca, its the first time you've been here. Please just let us in!" Jonah had a twinkle in his eye that Cesca knew only too well. "What are you up to, Jonah?" "Babe, nothing!!!" Cesca knew he was doing something but didn't question it anymore. She put the key into the keyhole, pushed the door.. "WELCOME HOME, CESCA!!!!!!!!!" A chorus of voices echoed across the flat. Cesca couldnt believe her eyes. A welcoming party for her!!! All this people had forgiven her! Adanna, Tom, Grantley, Chris, even Karen was there with Jess, Bex and Harry! Cesca wasnt surprised to see that Ruby hadn't turned up. Cesca looked around the room and found her husband. She looked him in the eyes and he winked at her. She winked back. 'THANK YOU' she mouthed. Cesca knew everything would be OK. She just knew it.
Chapter 3
"I'm so sorry, Cesca. I cant believe the way i treated you. I didn't realise how genuine you and Jonah were. I'm your best friend. Well i was. I should have supported your decision. I will do from now on, I promise. I wont let you down again." Adanna grovelled to Cesca, who just hugged her and laughed. "Adanna, you're with me here, now. That means the world to me and you still ARE my best friend, so stop with all that nonsense! i don't care who doesn't support me and Jonah. I love the ones that do support us. He isn't a pupil anymore. He is a 22 year old with my daughter. He's a man now. He is MY MAN!" The two women laughed like they used to. Cesca felt hands slide around her skinny frame. She felt a small kiss on the top of the head. "I'll be going then!" chuckled Adanna, who walked towards Tom. Cesca slowly turned round until she was looking Jonah in the eye. They smiled at one another. Jonah kissed her nose gently. "I cant believe I'm here, Jonah! I'm HOME! I'm a free woman! I've waited for this day for so long!" Cesca could feel tears welling in her eyes. She felt them drip down her face and Jonah used his thumb to wipe them away. "You shouldn't have been jailed in the first place. Being in love isnt a crime! Anyway, stop those tears! We are a proper family now. The world is our oyster now! We have our friends, our daughter and eachother. Thats all that matters!!" They saw Marcus Kirby walking up to them and Cesca's heart started beating fast. She hadn't seen him since her trial and he wasn't exactly supportive of her. Cesca knew that he had seen Paige a lot since she was born, which was some comfort to her. "Francesca, we've never seen eye to eye but I want you to know that I have never seen Jonah as happy as he is right now. Welcome to the family." Marcus held out his hand and Cesca shook it. "Marcus...i do love Jonah more than anyone on this planet. I will never let him down. I want us to have lots of children and grow old together. I cant live without him." Marcus smiled at her again, then walked away, joining Adanna and Tom in deep conversation. "GRANDAAAAAAAAAD!" Paige ran up to Marcus who picked her up joyfully. Cesca smiled again, not quite believing how happy she was. Cesca knew she didn't regret anything in her life. She knew she would have an amazing future, as long as Jonah would be with her. "He will be." Cesca finished her thought outloud. "Pardon?" Jonah asked. "Nothing, dont worry baby." After talking to all her friends, she put Paige to bed and escorted her friends out. She put her fluffy pyjamas on and watched some TV with Jonah. "Welcome home again, Cesca!" "Good to be back!!!!" - and it really was. Jonah kissed his wife passionately and lifted her up. Cesca wrapped her legs around his waist and carried her up the stairs. He took her into their bedroom and dropped her on the bed. He walked over to the bedroom door, looked upwards, smiled a wide smile and shut the door..shutting out the whole world.
Chapter 4
The next morning's scene echoed that of when Cesca and Jonah had first woken up together when she was his teacher. Like before, Cesca was laying with her head under Jonah's arm. The only difference was the 4 year old girl who had once again crept into bed with her parents. In comparison to the first time they'd woken up together, this time it didn't have to be hidden from people. She could update her facebook status to 'FRANCESCA KIRBY WOKE UP NEXT TO JONAH THIS MORNING - WHAT A NIGHT!' but decided the was a bit sleazy.
Instead of writing that though, she logged on, looked at what her friends were doing that day. She learned that Adanna was off to a boot sale. Ruby and Grantley were off to visit Fleur at the nursing home. Karen Fisher was off to the dentist. Ronan Burley had simply put 'Drunk'. Cesca then saw Jonah had written something 3 hours a go. She looked at the clock, it was now 9am, so at 6am Jonah had updated his status; 'JONAH KIRBY LOVES HIS WIFE, HIS BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER, HIS LIFE AND HIS BED (which is where I am off to again now!!), LOVE CUDDLING MY SOULMATE!' Cesca laughed at his mushy-ness, then updated her status. 'FRANCESCA KIRBY IS SO SO SO IN LOVE WITH HER BEAUTIFUL FAMILY. JONAH AND PAIGE, YOU WILL FOREVER HAVE MY LOVE. I AM THE HAPPIEST LADY IN ROCHDALE. ACTUALLY, THE WORLD.'
She knew Jonah would love to read that so she gently nudged him away. He woke up, smiled at Cesca turned over, coughed....and then Cesca heard his snoring softly. She didn't attempt to wake him up again. It was Wednesday - He went back to work tomorrow, so she'd let him sleep. Instead, she woke Paige up, who followed her obediently down the stairs. She wiped the sleep from her eyes and looked at Cesca who was putting the kettle on for her cup of coffee.
"Mummy?" Paige was quiet. "Yes sweetie?" "Can i have a cuddle?" Cesca skipped to the sofa her baby girl was sitting on. She lifted her up, placed her on her lap and nestled her into her dressing gown and kissed her head. "Paige...you know how much i love you, dont you??" Cesca whispered into the top of her daughters head. Her daughter didnt respond. "Paige?" "Hmm...mmmm" "I cant hear you sweetie-pie, speak up! " "Dont leave us again mummy, i like it when youre here with us. Daddy is happier and me!!" Cesca hugged her girl tightly. "Listen to me young lady!! Im going no-where. I'm going to be here with you all the time!" "Promise?" Cesca breathed confidently - "I promise!!!" Paige beamed brightly. She clasped onto her mummy, who was silently crying. She realised how much her daughter relied on her now and it was teh best feeling in the world. She composed herself calmly and said- "So...cornflakes or toast?" "TOAST!!!!" Paige shouted, running into the kitchen.
Chapter 5
"Alright Jonah! How are things mate?!" "Jonah!! How is Cesca settling back in?!" "Jonah!!! How is Paige? Loving her mummy in the house, i bet!!" It was Thursday the 10th April and Jonah had reluctantly left his family to go back to work. It surprised Jonah that so many people were asking after Cesca. It showed that they were cared about. Jonah did enjoy his job, but he wanted more than anything to be with his girls. He needed to support his little family though, financially. It wouldn't be long until he would be home anyway. Jonah worked at Waterloo Road as an english teacher. He was the youngest teacher there and he had worked extremely hard to get to where he was. Jonah was proud of himself for being so successful. It was lovely hearing everyone asking after his wife. It dawned on Jonah that, although it didnt matter to the couple what was thought of them, it was nice to genuinely have people there for them. "I'm fine, Cesca's fine, Paige is bloody fantastic!! We're all very excited at what the future holds for us." The staff in the staff room all chuckled and cheered. Tom Clarkson shook Jonah's hand. "Take care of her, mate." "Forever." was Jonah's stern reply. He knew that Tom felt deeply for Cesca, although they'd never really been together. Jonah was careful not to exhibit his love for her in front of her..he had a lot of respect for him. Jonah sat down in the staff room. It seemed he'd been away for months, not just two days! He texted his beloved wife; 'Morning baby. Missing you loads. Didnt wake you as you looked so peaceful sleeping. I will call you at break. Everyone is asking after you - even Grantley!! i love you beautiful. J xo' He pressed 'Send' and drank the last dregs of his cup of tea. The bell rang and he shot up, dreading the idea of teaching year 10's the symbolism in Romeo and Juliet. This would not be fun.
Cesca's mobile phone bleeped, waking her up. She reluctantly grabbed her phone and saw a message from her husband. She got butterflies in her stomach, then clicked 'Reply' - 'Just woke up, sorry i didn't wake up in time to see you out, you should have woken me!! Thanks for taking Paige to nursery, you're amazing. I love you Jonah, more than you could imagine. Thanks for everything. C xo'
Chapter 6
Cesca felt really ill. She felt sick. She was sick. She slept. She woke. She felt sick. She was sick. This went on for the whole morning. She didn't understand what was wrong with her. When Jonah had rung - as promised - at break, she made a joke, saying she was heartbroken, missing her sexy man. Jonah, on the other hand, was very concerned, offering to come home. "No, Jonah, stay at work. I'll be OK. I'm hoping its just a 24 hour sickness bug. I'll be fine. Don't worry about me babe. I'm going to go now, I feel sick again." "Ces..I am really worried...are you sure you want me to stay?" "YES, stay there. Listen to me for ONCE in your life, babe!!" "OK if that is what you want. I will stay. I'll see you later." "I love you." "I love you too..see you later." The phone rang off and, as predicted, Cesca was sick again. She heard her phone bleep again. 'I cant concentrate knowing your ill. I'm on my way, be there is 1-. J xox' Cesca sighed, trying to be annoyed. However, she knew that she might feel a bit better if she had her husband near her. She needed his warmth - she was freezing. She needed his reassurance, although she was certain she wouldn't get any. She looked awful. Oh how beautiful did she look right now(!!!!) She had vomit in her hair, her face was as white as a sheet. She certainly didnt look like the glamorous Cesca she and Jonah were used to! "CESCA!!" she heard her husband call her name and then she fell, like a tons of bricks, to the floor.
Chapter 7
BEEP BEEP BEEP! Cesca turned her head ever so slightly. She saw Jonah, who had tears rolling down his eyes. He had hold of her hand tightly, kissing it. He looked gorgeous in the light. His tears looked like diamonds. "Jonah?" She tried to talk, but it came out as an inaudible whisper. Somehow, her husband heard her and she was surprised at the look of amazement that was on his face. "CESCA!!! OH MY GOD CESCA!!!!!!!" He flung himself on top of her, being careful not to hurt her. "What happened? Where am I? Where's Paige?!" Cesca started panicking but couldn't move. She had too many wires attached to her hands that stopped her from jumping up. "Calm down, babe. You're in hospital. You've been here for 3 days. unconscious. They've been doing tests to see whats wrong, we're still waiting for results. Paige is in London with your mum, she thinks we're in Bora-Bora!!" Cesca laughed weakly "I wish!!!" she scoffed! She shuffled across the bed she was laying on and tapped the space to the left of her. Jonah interpreted what this mean immediately. He took off his tie and jacket, as well as his shoes and laid down next to her. She cowered in his arms, tears rolling down her face. "I'm scared Jonah." "Dont be silly. You'll be fine. I'm going nowhere. I will stay here forever, supporting you," "What if I'm terminally ill, Jonah? And I'm gonna die?! What if I'm being eaten inside out by bugs?" "Cesca, STOP!!!!!!!!! You'll be OK. Try and get some more sleep." He nestled her into his arms some more, he was desperate to make her feel safe and secure. Jonah himself was terrified. What would happen to him if Cesca was really ill?! What if she ended up unable to do anything for herself?! She was so independent, she wouldn't be able to cope with not being able to fend for herself. Jonah shook his head, STOP THINKING NEGATIVE THOUGHTS, he told himself. His wife was a fighter. She would get through it. If she knew what was going through his head, she wouldn't be happy in the slightest!! Cesca would be ok. She would be. She will be...She will be...She will be...Jonah ran through this in his head. "Be stong, Ces, please." He whispered to her. Her soft breaths told him that she was asleep. That made him happy. She wasn't worrying about anything but her dreams.
Chapter 8
It had been a week since Cesca had been rushed into hospital. She'd had tests about every illness possible. She didn't have cancer (thank the lord!), she didn't have epilepsy. She didn't have an allergic reaction. The only thing she was allergic to was cheese! She wasn't anemic. She was - on the surface - a healthy lady!
"OBVIOUSLY SHE ISN'T HEALTHY!!!!! If she was healthy, she wouldn't have spent the last week in one of your uncomfortable hospital beds! She would have been at home, with me and our daughter!!!" Jonah was furious that the doctors seemed to be dismissive. "Mr Kirby,we're doing all the tests we can! We want your wife better, just like you do." Doctors tried reasoning with Jonah." "There is SOMETHING WRONG WITH MY WIFE!!!! Find out what it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She's not eating, she's lost so much weight. She cant stand without crippling pain in her stomach. Why is this happening to my poor Cesca? My poor baby? My poor Cesca!!!" Jonah started to cry. "Jonah, calm down, please. I feel a lot better now. I can talk and stand up now!! There is one test they have to do that they havent yet!!!" "Is there?!" Both Jonah and their doctor looked flabbergasted, "Yeah, a PREGNANCY test!!" Cesca looked happy with herself. "Pregnant? Again? Already? No, that cant be it!" Jonah was shocked. "Mrs Kirby...we'll do a pregnancy test straight away. urinate into this pot and we will send it to the lab, urgently!!"
Cesca couldn't wait. She was sure this was the reason for all this. She was stunned at why she hadn't thought about it before.
Cesca felt a lot better. She could sit up without screaming in agony, she could talk in more than a whisper and to top it off, she could be bringing a new baby into the world. She was on top of the world. When Jonah wasn't at work, he was at the hospital. He tried to beat Cesca at Scrabble (like that was ever going to happen!!!) and gave her all the staff room gossip!
Chapter 9
"I cant quite believe I'm about to say this but congratulations! You're expecting another baby!!" The doctor looked as shocked as Jonah did. Jonah looked at his wife, who was absolutely ecstatic. She was beaming, ear to ear. He breathed deeply. "Wow, Cesca, this is amazing. We'll do it properly this time. You're at home for this pregnancy! We can go shopping for the pram, and teh baby clothes! we can look through baby name books together! This is brilliant, baby!" "I know, its wonderful news!" Cesca was so excited. "Paige is going to have a brother or sister. AMAZING!" "I know Jonah, calm down!" Cesca laughed at Jonah who was running round like a loony.
Cesca was discharged from hospital that afternoon. Jonah fussed over her, all day. Drink, Food, too hot, too cold - Jonah was there for her and Cesca wouldnt have it any other way. Paige was at nursery - probably telling everyone about the exciting news, not that she fully understood! She went on facebook for the first time since announcing her love for Jonah. She was surprised to see a lot of people had asked on her wall how she was in hospital nd that made her feel good. She had 20 'likes' on her last status and 5 comments. She decided to update her status again; FRANCESCA KIRBY IS OUT OF HOSPITAL, HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE ANOTHER KIRBY BABY IS ON ITS WAY IN 8 MONTHS TIME!!! "Lets see how many 'Likes' that gets!" Cesca laughed out loud at herself. She logged off, texted Jonah, then decided to go out. She didn't know where, but she knew that she wouldnt come back empty handed.
Cesca was pregnant again - and wanted the whole world to know. Her phone bleeped, unsurprisingly it was a message from Jonah;
We're having a baby.......wow! love you baby. J xo
Cesca smiled. She loved her Jonah. She loved her Paige. She loved her bump. She loved her life,
Chapter 10
A few hours later, Cesca returned home. She knew she had well too many shopping bags on her arm. Bags from Motehrcare, bags from Babies 'R' Us, bags from ASDA George, bags from John Lewis and (of course) a bag from Jane Norman. Cesca had to treat herself as well as her baby didnt she? Cesca had found out she was pregnant yesterday but she's stocked up on everything. She has baby clothes, baby bottles, baby bedding - yet there was no cot as of yet - car sign that said 'Baby on board!!' - Cesca knew Jonah would LOVE it - and another bag containing dummies. Cesca knew she's gone a BIT overboard - the baby wasn't due for 8 months!! She slammed her keys on teh side. "Cesca? Is that you?!" Cesca jumped. Why was Jonah home?! He should be at work!! She started to panic. She threw all the bags in the cupboard under the stairs. "Cesca?!" "Yeah its me, babe...who else would it be?!" she shouted, laughing. She walked over to the living room door which was closed. Cesca thought this a bit weird. It was even weirder when Cesca put her hand on the doorknob, twisted it and.. "CESCA! Dont come in yet!!" "Why? What are you doing?" "Ask no questions and i will tell you no lies, my little angel." Jonah sounded as though he was rushing round hiding something. "Jonah i am coming in now. Youre really scaring me." "OK." Cesca turned the doornob and saw her husband, who was breathing loudly and had beads of sweat on his forhead. He was watching Pixelface, with a weird look on his face. "Jonah...what was that all about?! Why aren't you at work?" "I had a free period. Thought I would come and surprise you for lunch but..obviously you werent home. We can go out for dinner tonight though yeah? Make up for it? I've got to go to work." He leaped up, kissed Cesca's soft lips and simply said - "See you babe, love you." He smiled at his wife. "Yeah..bye." Cesca sat down, tears welling in her eyes. It wasn't normal for Jonah to act so off. She knew something was definately wrong. Was he having an affair?! Nah that wouldnt be it. He wouldn't leave her in the house and go off to work, definately not. Cesca knew Jonah wouldn't ever hurt her, he loved her. She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. A message from Jonah. Cesca's heart sunk. 'Don't sit there worrying babe, I've bought you birthday bits, didn't want you seeing them all now, do i!? I wanted to spoil my princess...and surprise her on the big day! J xo' Cesca laughed, relieved. Of course, her birthday!!!!! Next week it was!! Trust Jonah to be so prepared! Bless him. She stood up, skipped upstairs and emptied the contents of the bags that she'd brought home from the town. She placed it all under the bed, then felt her phone vibrate. This time it wasn't Jonah. It was Adanna. 'Got a free period - wanna come to waterloo road for tea and a chat? Adanna xxx' Cesca hesitated, then replied. 'You bet!!! See you in the car park. Give me 15 minutes, lol. Cesca xxx'
Chapter 11
When Cesca arrived at the school, it was empty. The only car in the car park was Adanna's. Cesca parked up, undid her seat beat and got out of her blue clio. Adanna was stood up against her car, smiling at Cesca. "Whats going on, Adanna?!" "Two friends meeting up and having tea, why?!" "The school is empty!! Where is everyone?!" Jonah said he was at work!! Where was Jonah?! "Cesca, calm down. Follow me." Adanna grabbed Cesca by the wrist, "What is Jonah up to now?" Adanna laughed, loudly. "I'm under strict instructions not to tell. Come on, dont dilly-dally!!!" Cesca followed her friend, a quizzical look on her face. They walked through the halls of Waterloo Road, walking past Cesca's old classroom. She thought it was weird this was where her and Jonah met one another. It made her smile - such happy memories. Until the prison, that is! Cesca didn't like how horribly quiet it was. She was used to it being packed with rowdy students!! They reached the dinner hall, although it was pitch black. Cesca and her friend walked into the hall, then watched as lights came on. Jonah was stood in the middle of the hall, in a tuxedo. Cesca knew she could never resist Jonah in a suit! There were heart stickers on the windows and a choir of students were singing 'I will always love you' softly in the corner. Cesca started crying, running up to Jonah. She kissed him. He pulled out a chair and she sat on it. He clicked his fingers and Bex Fisher strolled in, carrying two plates. The couple wined and dined for 3 hours, laughing at everything and everyone. Sam Kelly had read a poem, Harry Fisher had played the violin and even Finn Sharkey and Kyle Stack had become friends to make a huge 'JONAH LOVES CESCA' banner. "Why have you done all this, Jonah?" Cesca didn't understand. "Well..." Jonah got up from his seat and got down on one knee. Cesca gasped, shocked. "Look, Cesca, our Gretna Green wedding was amazing, but I want us to do it again. Properly this time. A church, witnesses that we know, a lovely HUGE wedding dress for you..our daughter as bridesmaid. would you like that?" Cesca nodded fiercely, tears running down her cheeks. "Then lets do that. Francesca Kirby...will you marry me? Again?" He laughed, nervously. Like the first time, Cesca leaned over and kissed Jonah. She pulled him up. "Jonah Kirby..I flippin love you!! Tonight has been AMAZING. Of COURSE I WILL RE-MARRY YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!" The couple kissed again, the students of Waterloo Road cheering them. Paige appeared out behind the curtains.. "I LOVE MUMMY AND DADDY!!!!!" everyone in the hall laughed as she ran up to her parents and they picked her up, hugging her. The choir then started singing again and Cesca and Jonah slow danced, laughing again. Cesca literally couldnt believe how lucky she was. The luckiest person in the world. EVER. Jonah felt the same. He loved his wife. Who wouldn't...how amazing was she?!
Chapter 12
Jonah woke up early the next day, a HUGE smile on his face. He looked at his real-life sleeping beauty. Cesca was make-up free, her hair was up in a messy bun, she had sleep dribble down her chin and she was talking in her sleep, but still Jonah knew she was beautiful! He knew that in twenty years he would wake up to that same lady, be thinking the same. He laid back, put his arm gently round his wife. He remembered when he first set eyes on her. It was his (and hers!!) first day at Waterloo Road. She was his first teacher, she cooked an omlette. They laugh about that now - Cesca's not the greatest cook! ' Bueno, Jonah!' she had said to him. Jonah remembered Ronan was cheekily flirting with her, him laughing at his pal. He bet Ronan was kicking himself now, look who got the girl!!!! He remembered the first time he kissed Cesca, when she slapped him away...now look at them!!!!!!! A BEAUTIFUL daughter, another on the way, a marriage and a renewal of vowels happening soon as well! Jonah knew he would never regret not giving up on Cesca, ever. Cesca started to stir, snapping Jonah out of his thoughts. Paige then appeared at the doorway. Jonah couldnt remember the last time he hadnt woken up to Paige in the bed as well. He was a proud Daddy!! "DADDY!!! I stayed in my room all night!!! I wasnt scared!! First time ever i stayed in my room all night, daddy! ALL NIGHT!" Paige was so excited and proud of herself. "I noticed, well done baby girl!!! You deserve a treat today!! What do you want to do? Me and mummy will do whatever you want!" "I want to go to London! i wanna sit on the round thing that people sit on" "The london eye?!" Jonah didnt talk this time, but it was Cesca's muffled voice from underneath the duvert. "YEAH! London Eye! Please Daddy!!? Mummy? PLEASEEEEEEEEEE?" "if you stop SHOUTING then yes!" Cesca laughed, sleepily. "YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!" Paige screamed. "Glad she stopped shouting" Jonah said sarcastically. Cesca laughed, shutting her eyes again. Paige ran down the room and heard her tlaking to the dog 'Bugsy, mummy and daddy and paigey and baby bump are going to LONDON!!!!!!!!!' Cesca and Jonah chuckled, loving how excited Paige was. "Jonah, last night was so beautiful. I love you, so bloody much!" "I love you too." He put his arms over their baby which was growing day by day. He cuddled up closely to his girl. Cesca kissed Jonah's stubble. Jonah rested his head on Cesca's. They both shut their eyes but soon woke up when they heard' "MUMMY!!!!! BUGSY POOED ON THE CARPET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Chapter 13
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! Cesca and Jonah were sat in a clinic, listening to their baby's heartbeat. It was the most beautiful sound. It was also Cesca's birthday. "Congratulations, you're expecting a baby boy!!" The doctor beamed at The Kirby's, who were at their 14 week scan. "A boy?" Cesca was ecstatic. "Yeah, a bouncy boy. He is growing well. If he keeps growing at this rate he will be a good 7/8 pound baby!" "THATS MY BOY!" Jonah shouted, excited at the fact he was going to have a boy to complete his family. His two girls and boy..The Kirby's!! They were so excited!! BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM! BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM! There was another heartbeat. TWO heartbeats. That meant.. "Looks like there is twins in there! "Twins?! " Cesca and Jonah were dumbstruck. "Yeah, congratulations! Its a boy and a girl." "Thanks, doc!" Jonah couldn't move. "Two babies?! Cesca..i was scared at first when i thought there was just one! Now we have two on the way. TWO. TWINS. THREE CHILDREN. I can't do this Cesca, i really really cant." Cesca laughed. "Oh Jonah, we'll be ok." She leaned over to kiss him but he pulled away. He got up from his seat, ran out from behind the curtain and Cesca heard doors slam behind him.
Why was he so scared? She knew they would be OK. They didn't have a choice. Cesca was ready to accept whatever was thrown at her. She had told Marcus that she wanted lots of children with Jonah.......just not all at the same time!!
She hugged her bump, with her two little babies in there. "We'll be OK, darlings. I promise."
Chapter 14
Cesca arrived home. Jonah was sitting in the living room, on the phone. "I dont know, mate. I love her, course I do. I love Paige. I loved the one baby that was growing inside her. Now there is two and it's too much. I'll be a dad of three at 23!! I love my girls so much. I'm so scared it's going to push us apart. Three kids is going to be a strain. What if we end up splitting up?!" Jonah was crying on the phone. Cesca thought the three children was putting him off but it was the fact he was worried they would rip their family apart. Cesca walked over to him and put her arms around his chest. "She just got home, I'll call you later, yeah?" Jonah threw his phone on the sofa and cried into Cesca's chest. "Cesca, I love you. I love Paige. I love those two babies that are nesting in you right now.I just dont think we will cope with three! What if we get ripped apart Ces?! Babies are stressful. Two of them, plus Paige. I'm scared, Cesca. I can't lose you, I really cant." He started crying even more. Cesca tried to comfort him but found herself crying alongside him. "Jonah, listen to me. I love you too, forever and always. I've been in prison because I love you. I lost a job because I love you. I lost a bunch of friends because I love you. I wont EVER lose you, because i LOVE YOU. Love conquers everything remember!" Jonah laughed, wiping his tears away. He was a bit embarrassed. "Will we cope with twins, Cesca?" "We have no choice. We have two more people adding to our Kirby family and baby, i wouldnt have it any other way, OK!!!" "OK." "So..want these twins?!" "Yes, i do." Jonah still sounded nervous. "Good. Me too." "I thought of some names!" "Shoot!" "Grantley and Ruby?" "Erm, NO. We have 30 weeks to think of names. Sounds like we are going to need them!!!" Cesca laughed. "Happy birthday gorgeous." Jonah hadnt forgotten. He walked over to the cupboard and pulled out a tons of presents. Little ones, Huge ones, medium size ones. There was an envelope one as well. Cesca chose that one first. She opened it, intrigued. It made her cry again. It was a card, made by her little girl. Inside, it said 'MuMmYY, I lOvE YoO, HappY BiRThDAY. LUv PaIgE + thE BabY BUmP. XoXOxO' It was the best card Cesca had ever received.
Chapter 15
Jonah was absolutely terrified. He knew that when the babies arrived, he would love it. Just that the prospect of three children was scary. He wasn;t going to say any more about it though. Poor little Cesca needed him now - she would be carrying them round for months to come! Cesca was Jonah's rock, no doubt about that. She always knew the right things to say. Apart from suggesting names. Some names she'd come up with were a bit weird. Rupert and Rita.. Sonny and Cher. Louis and Louise. Oh dear. They had finally settled on two names. Paige had chosen her sister's name, Phoebe. Jonah and Cesca had chosen the name Jayden for their little prince. As the weeks went on, Jonah got more and more excited. They had to go for fortnightly scans, as Cesca was a little lady so they had to keep a proper eye out that the twins weren't damaging her spine - so far so good! Painting the baby nursery yellow and building the cots and buying the clothes...Jonah couldnt wait for his babies to be born. Only 5 months to go!! Jonah was so protective of Cesca. She wasn't allowed to get up for any reason at all (unless going to the toilet!!) He didnt want her to get restless or tired.
Chapter 16
Cesca woke up and looked at the clock. 02:17am. She stretched and felt the babies pushing on her bladder. Toilet time again - that was a change(!!) Cesca waddled to the bathroom in the dark. She flicked the light switch and was shocked at what she saw. Her silk pyjama bottoms were crimson, completely covered in blood. Cesca screamed for her husband - 'JONAH!!!!!!!! JONAH WAKE UP! JONAH THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE BABIES. JONAH...JONAAAAAAAAAH!!' She ran into their bedroom and shook Jonah 'JONAH! OUR BABIES..OUR BABIES..JONAH!' He woke up immediately and saw his hysterical wife. 'OH GOD, Cesca, baby..calm down. We'll be OK. They'll be OK. Come on, HOSPITAL.' 'What if I've lost them? What if there are no babies? Oh Jonah...' Cesca collapsed on the floor, passed out. Jonah got a blanket and wrapped it round his wife. He gently carried her into the blue clio that Cesca had always owned. He drove rapidly down the motorway, getting flashed by all the speed cameras - that was nowhere near as important as the lives of his wife and their twins. He rang the hospital who said that there would be a bed waiting for her - along with pints of blood. Jonah arrived at the hospital and ran with his almost-conscious wife in his arms. He has tears running down his face, he's never been so panicked in his life. He knew he had to be strong for her - Just like he had to be when she was in hospital for a week 5 months ago. He laid Cesca on a bed and then all the doctors descended on her. Jonah watched in horror as they inserted tubes into her hand, her arms, they stripped her bottoms off and closed the curtains round her so no-one knew what they were doing. Jonah walked in, but was pushed out; 'Let us do our best - pray for her.' Jonah didnt like the sound of that. 'Pray for her'. Its sounded as though she wouldnt make it. There was NO WAY Cesca wouldnt make it. She'd be OK..Wouldnt she?! He texted Cesca's mum - 'Jenny, Cesca rushed to hospital...major bleed..been told to pray for her. She'll make it though. Right? I'm so scared. x' Jonah pressed send and ran outside into the cold air. He screamed his lungs out...until no sound came out. He didnt understand why it was always Cesca who had to put up with all the rubbish. Jonah wished that, for once, he could take some of the crap. It was always his poor baby. Jonah hoped more than anything that she would survive. He wanted his babies to survive, of course. Its just that right now, Cesca meant more to him. They'd met, fallen in love, been married..he'd never met the babies. Jonah realised how awful his thoughts were...he wanted all three of them to survive. Jonah's phone beeped. 'OMG, We r on our way...she will be fine, Jonah..just u w8. x' Jonah hoped more than anything that it would be the case.
Chapter 17
'Mr Kirby, I'm very sorry. Cesca miscarried one of the babies. You've lost the baby girl. She was 11oz, very tiny. Her brother is fighting, just. he has a very slow heartbeat. We are considering delivering him now, he might survive that way.' The doctor was stern, watching Jonah crumble before his very eyes. 'I knew it...do whatever you need to do to save him, please. We cant loose both. Please. How about Cesca?' 'Cesca is in a very critical condition. She lost a LOT of blood, she lost consciousness 4 hours ago and hasnt regained it yet. Its touch and go. She needs to fight hard. She could lose her life right now. Its scary. You should go and be with her. She needs to know youre there with her. We'll deliver the baby boy and you can see her after, ok?' Jonah nodded, crying silently. Poor Cesca. She's lost one of her babies, one of them was going to be delivered with a very slim chance of survival. Their family had split in half, through no fault of their own. Paige was at her friend's house, a sleepover. Jonah was glad - she hadnt even crossed his mind. Jonah walked into the canteen and sat down. His phone bleeped again..a message from Jenny again. 'Stuck in traffic. Its 4 in the morning and we are in TRAFFIC. be there ASAP. Be strong. Any news? x' Jonah deeply breathed. 'Cesca touch-and-go. Girl baby miscarried. Boy being delivered as i text. My poor family. x' He got a cup of tea from a machine, but couldnt bare to drink it. He couldnt drink tea and be normal when his wife was severely ill. She couldnt do this on her own. She needed him more than ever. He drank his tea which was by now stone cold. He ran down the stairs to the maternity ward. He asked doctors where his wife was. He found her in Delivery room 4, but he couldnt get in. He watched, as his lifeless wife laid on the hospital bed, her belly being cut open. He saw doctor rummage around. He then saw his son being born. He was transparent and absolutely tiny. Jonah watched as his son was placed into an incubator. He cried bittersweet tears. His son was just about alive, Cesca was fighting for her life. Jonah would give his life as long as Cesca and their boy would be OK. Jonah would willingly die for the lives of the two people fighting for their innocent lives in front him. Jonah sat on the bench outside the delivery room and found himself praying to god - 'Kill me god, not Ces, or our baby boy. Not Jayden, or Cesca. Me. Please. Please god..KILL ME.' he stopped whispering and found himself shouting down the halls. 'KILL ME. NOT HER. OR THE BABY. KILL ME. KILL ME.' He sobbed his heart out and felt a hand on his shoulder. 'Your boy is extremely tiny. 1lb 5 oz. We are doing everything in our power to help him. He is on a ventilator and in an incubator. Slim chances though, Mr Kirby.' The doctor sounded regretful. 'Just MAKE SURE THEY PULL THROUGH.' Jonah was so upset. 'We will try our best. Does baby boy have a name?' 'Yeah. Jayden. Jayden Marcus Kirby.' Jonah texted everyone in his phone book. 'Jayden Marcus Kirby arrived into the world 20 minutes ago. Very tiny. Mummy not good. Pray for them both. Please. J xx'
Chapter 18
Jonah hardly slept that night. He had to go home, try to be strong. He didnt understand what being strong would do to help his tiny son and wife. They needed to fight for themselves. True, he could encourage them, whisper for them to get better but they needed to get themselves strong and better again. It was 8 in the morning and Jonah decided to go to the hospital again. He slowly walked up the halls of the hospital dreading more bad news. He hoped that Jayden and Cesca had made it throught the night. Jonah walked into the intensive care unit, where both Cesca and Jayden were. He walked into the secluded room where his poor wife was laying. She had tubes all around her body, a ventilator on her mouth. Jonah noticed that she had a bit of colour back in her face, but she still wasnt responding to the doctors in any way. Jonah kissed his wife on her cheek and left her alone to sleep...He could hear people crying, shouting at doctors. He heard people jumping for joy. He saw people sitting with their head in their hands, not sure what was happening to the people they loved - just like Jonah. He reached his son who - like his mummy - was covered head to toe in wires. He was laying on a white blanket, under a red light, presumably keeping him warm. He too had more colour to him. He didnt look as transparent as he did yesterday. Jonah longed to cuddle his baby but knew that Jayden was too delicate to be handled.. Jonah was torn between staying with his son, or going to be with his wife. He was in turmoil when he heard a voice. 'He'll be OK, Jonah. So will Cesca.' Jonah jumped, then turned his head. He saw Karen Fisher standing there, carrying a small baby in her arms. 'I dont know..they both look do delicate and vulnerable and I cant do anything to make it better.' 'Jonah..be strong for them and I'm sure they'll return the favour.' 'Did you have another baby?!" Jonah didnt know she was pregnant! 'No, No! Jess had this little madame 5 hours ago. Her name is Alexa Grace. Or just Lexi.' 'She's beautiful. I didnt even know Jess was pregnant!!' 'No, nor did we! Jess had no clue until she went into labour - she is in total shock!' 'I can imagine!! And the father?' 'Dont even go there!' 'Do I know him?' 'Yeah..Chris.' 'MEAD?' 'Yeah. They've been together since Jess left school, quite like you and Francesca. I couldnt do anything to stop them. I have accepted them now, he is an absolute diamond!' 'And after alll the grief he gave Cesca and me!!' 'Yeah I know! That was different though. Now, I'm going to take Lexi to her mummy...whats your little man called?' 'Jayden. Jayden Marcus Kirby.' 'Wasnt Cesca having..?' 'Twins. yeah. she was.' Jonah cut her short. 'Phoebe was miscarried last night.' 'Jonah, I am so sorry. Just concentrate on him getting better. And her!! I'll see you later.' Jonah nodded and looked at his boy again. 'Yeah, bye.' 'Oh, and Jonah? Tell Jayden he has to get better. He and little Lexi are going to be best pals!' Karen laughed. Jonah found himself laughing, but had never felt more guilty. How could he be happy when his family were so delicate?
Chapter 19
Jonah didnt want to go into work that day, but he knew he had to keep some form of normality in his life. Paige was being looked after by Marcus, so she didnt know her mummy was poorly. She was still going to nursery as normal - just like Jonah wanted. He walked into the busy staffroom and saw a crowd around Karen, who was showing off pictures of her beautiful new grandaughter. There were chorus after chorus of 'Oh she has Chris' eyes!' or 'Oh she has a lot of hair!' Their words stung Jonah, although he knew it wasnt their problem. Tom Clarkson looked up and saw Jonah. He cleared his throat and said - 'Jonah, mate, we are so sorry.' Jonah nodded, not sure what to say. 'I would prefer to be left alone. I just want to get through the day and then get back to being with Cesca. and our baby.' 'The babies have been delivered already?!' Grantley was genuinely shocked. 'yeah..sort of. Phoebe was miscarried and Jayden was delivered, absolutely tiny. 1lb...he has a lot of growing to do before he gulps his first bit of fresh air...he'll make it.' 'and how is Cesca? Coping OK?' Jonah's heart sank as he met Karen's eye. 'No, Cesca is in intensive care, on a ventilator. Tubes sticking out of every bit of her body...I'm so scared of losing her.' Jonah started crying again, not caring who saw him. He saw Karen walking towards him and she gave him a proper hug. 'Jonah..go home. Or to the hospital. You cant stay here. Take as much time as you need..just go and be with your family, please.' Jonah sobbed uncontrolably but nodded. He walked back out of the room, through the corridors and stopped at the classroom that was once used by Miss Francesca Montoya. He walked in and sat down. He thought he could smell her scent - but realised her scent wouldnt still be there after 5 years. Jonah looked at the desk that she had once taught at. He looked around the walls and saw the spanish posters. Jonah then felt guilty. If he had never pursued her, maybe she wouldnt be where she was. If she had chosen Tom over him then she would probably be teaching still, not laying in a hospital bed. 'Im so sorry Cesca.' Jonah spoke outloud - then heard his phone go off. It was the song that they were going to dance their first dance too - Dont wanna miss a thing by Aerosmith. Jonah cleared his throat and answered it. 'hello, is that Jonah Kirby?' 'Yeah. Who is this?' 'Its Charley - Cesca's nurse. She's just woken up and is demanding to know why her husband isnt here!' Jonah screamed joyfully. 'TELL HER I WILL BE THERE IN 10!' He rung off the phone and ran into the car park. He got in his car and turned the key. He put his foot on the pedal and got out of the gates. He put his foot on the pedal and sped down the road, not seeing the oncoming coach. He tried to brake quickly but - CRASH.
Chapter 20
Jonah knew exactly where he was without needing to open his eyes. He recognized the sounds of machine beeping. He could hear people screaming. He could hear telephones ringing. He opened his eyes..he recognized that gorgeous face staring at him. 'JONAH!' Cesca was so relieved that Jonah had woken. 'God we're a right pair aren't we!' Jonah laughed, although it killed him. His chest felt tight. He rubbed his eyes and could see his wife properly. She looked skinnier than normal and was in normal clothes, but she was in a wheelchair. 'What happened to me, Ces?' 'You're a plum. You drove straight into a coach! You didn't brake or anything, just went straight into it! You're OK though. Just a broken leg and a few crushed ribs.' 'How long have I been here?!' '3 days!' 'And I've only JUST woken up?!" 'Well..you have been put on a lot of drugs and painkillers that practically knocked you out.' 'What about you?! Yo were unconscious 3 days ago...doctors didn't think you were going to wake up again!' 'Well I had to didnt I!! Couldnt leave you and Paige alone!' 'And you know about..' 'Yeah.' Cesca looked down. She knew she's lost a baby and Jonah wasn't there to comfort her. 'And how is Jayden?' 'He's going nowhere, thank god!' 'oh good!' 'I want to change his name.' 'What?' 'He's a fighter...I want a fighter name.' 'What have you got in mind?' Jonah was abit put out considering he'd chosen Jayden but he knew where his wife was coming from. 'Well...I like Lennox.' 'Lennox?!' 'Yeah...Lennox Marcus Kirby.' Jonah realised how cool it sounded - Lennox Lewis was a fighter and so was his baby. 'Lennox Marcus Kirby it is!' Cesca smiled at Jonah and they kissed for the first time in what felt like forever. 'Shall we go and see our baby?' 'Yeah!' Jonah and Cesca were both in wheelchairs and raced one another to the lift, being careful not to run anyone over!! 'Cesca..why are you in a wheelchair?' Jonah asked when they were alone in the lift. 'I've lost the feeling of my legs. I'll be able to walk again, its just gonna take a while. I have blood clots in both legs which obviously stopped blood circulating properly. I've just got to learn again, physiotherapy will sort me out no time!' 'I'm sorry, Ces. I feel awful. If you were with Tom, you wouldn't be here, mourning a child. You'd probably be teaching still...' 'JONAH! You're worth all of this. I've said it before I regret nothing. I dont want Tom. I want you. I dont love Tom, I love you!' The couples smiled at each other and they reached the floor their little fighter was on. They held hands and tried to wheel themselves out using one hand - that failed. 'I'll hold your hand later..I wanna wheel myself properly!' The couple laughed again and this time Jonah didnt feel any guilt, just happiness.
Chapter 21
Five months later, Lennox Marcus Kirby finally breathed his first breath of fresh air. His proud parents had carefully put him in hsi carrier and covered him in a blanket. It was September 1st by now, so the wind was colder and it was rainy. Cesca and Jonah left the hospital with a hope of not going back there for a long time. 5 months of being in and out of hospital was more than enough. Cesca was almost 100% able to walk again. She hadn't given up at any point. Like her son, she was a fighter. She'd worked every day for 3 months to stand up and spent 2 months learning to walk again. All the determination had indeed paid off - she could walk! Sure she had to stop at times but it made Cesca proud that she could run around the field with Paige, or walk up to Lennox when he was crying. Cesca was no longer Cesca Kirby, criminal. She was Cesca Kirby, Mummy. Having her children (and Jonah!) was what got Cesca through her life and as long as they were with her through every step of her life, she'd have nothing to worry about. The Kirby family all arrived home to their home in Rochdale. Paige was very quiet, trying not to wake her sleeping brother. She took her Daddy's hand and walked into her bedroom. She dug in her toybox and pulled out a piece of paper. 'I saved it for Lennie. Put it on his wall please Daddy?' Jonah looked down at the paper and saw that his little girl and drawn a house, with Mummy, Daddy, Paige and Lennox in front of it. She had also drawn her baby sister who wasnt lucky enough to have come home. 'Its our family. Even though Phoebe isnt here anymore. She is still with us isnt she Daddy?' Jonah was amazed at the level of maturity Paige was showing at such a tender subject. 'Yes, she is. Thank you Paige, we'll put that up in his room now, shall we?' Cesca sounded disheartened and rightly so. Cesca and Jonah laid their son down in his cot for the first time. They took lots of photos of him so they wouldnt ever forget such a momentous occasion. Jonah put blue tac on the back of Paige's drawing and stuck it on the wall. They'd already put things up on the wall. They had put the scans of both babies onto the wall. They'd put photos of their first cuddle, Paige's first cuddle, Granny and Grandad's first cuddle, because they were days that the Kirby family had never once dreamed of occuring. There was another photo-taking oppurtunity arriving in the next week - Paige's first day at school. She couldn't wait!!!!!!!!!!!! They'd purchased all of her uniform. They had bought black shoes and white ankle socks. They'd bought her the bookbag she needed. They had bought her a little pencil case. When Paige had asked her Dad about what not to do at school, Jonah had cheekily replied - 'Dont have one on one tuition with your spanish teacher!!!' Paige looked utterly confused and Cesca laughed out loud, 'So you're allowed but she's not?' Cesca jokily said to her husband. 'Pretty Much!!!' Jonah laughed along with his beautiful soulmate and pulled her close and hugged her. This is what the Kirby family was about - love and laughter, forever and always!
Chapter 22
It was the day that Paige Kirby had waited for. Her first day at school. She woke her parents up at precisely 4:52 am because she couldnt wait. 'MUMMY WAKE UP! I WANT TO BE THE FIRST ONE THERE! MUMMY WAKE UP! DADDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!' Cesca looked at the clock. 'Paige...GO TO BED!' 'But, MUMMY!!!!' 'no Paige, you dont need to be up for another three hours!' 'But mummy..' 'PAIGE, GO!!!!!!' Cesca was cross with her daughter. Yes she was excited but this took the mick a bit. 'Mummy?' Paige was still in the room. 'What?' 'I'm going to wake Lennie up.' 'Paige?' Jonah was desperately tired. 'Yes Daddy?' 'If you wake Lennox up you wont go to school. Now, go to bed.' 'Oh, OK.' Cesca and Jonah cuddled up together and then heard Paige speaking. 'LENNIE!!!!! WAKE UP!!!!!!! MORNING!!!!!!!!!!' There was a silence, then an ear-piercing scream. Lennox was now awake. 'Great!!' Jonah jumped out of bed. 10 minutes later, Cesca heard Paige plod off to her room and Jonah singing to his baby boy. 15 minutes later, Jonah walked back into the bedroom and got back into bed. 'They're both asleep again..3 more hours!!' The couple had finally settled to sleep again then heard - 'Is it time yet?' 'PAIGE GO BACK TO SLEEP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!' Cesca and Jonah yelled in unison. Yes, that did it, Paige went back to bed and stayed there until it was time to get up.
Chapter 23
It was 13:10 and Cesca stood at the gate waiting for her daughter to come out of school. She only did a half day and Cesca was so excited to know how her baby girl got on. She stood there among the other mum's who were also waiting for their little angels. Cesca got her grizzly son out of his maxi-cosi pushchair. She brought him up to her chest and he stopped crying. She kissed the top of his head and heard - 'Didn't she sleep with her student?' One mum whispered (not very quietly) to another mum. Cesca froze and ignored the comment. She wanted to see what the other mother would reply. 'Yeah she did..she should still be inside.' She laughed. Cesca placed her son back into his pushchair and bit her tongue - she wasn't going to make a scene. 'Yeah she should definately. She's a disgrace to the world.' 'Definately...Stupid woman, taking advantage of a young boy like that...' Cesca's blood boiled over and she couldn't contain her rage anymore. She spun round on her Louis Vuitton heels and faced the ladied who were not so subtely talking about her. 'Look, I couldnt help but over hear what you were saying, but what is your problem?' The two mum's looked bewildered and didn't say anything. Cesca carried on. 'Not that it's any of your business but yes, I did sleep with my student. I left school to be with him. I didn't 'lead him on' as reports suggested - he pursued me and I don't regret it for a single second. I went to prison for him...these children I have given birth to are his. I'm married to him. We are going to renew our vows soon. Does that sound like im 'taking advantage?' Cesca stared the women in the eyes.. 'Erm, No.' 'EXACTLY..I LOVE HIM. Why cant people get over it?! I'm going to be with him my whole life. Can you stop gossiping about me now? And if you have stuff to say then please say it to my face. Its rude not to.' Cesca then spun back round and looked her son in his pushchair - he was now snoozing away. She smiled - the woman weren't talking about her anymore.
'MUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!' Paige ran up the small green hill and hugged her mummy tightly. 'Hello beautiful!!!!! How was it?!' 'I got a boyfriend!!' 'What?!' 'Yeah..I got a boyfriend. I Wuv him.' 'Whats his name?' 'Lucas.' 'Oh right. Whats his full name?' ''Lucas Clarkson.' Cesca saw a little boy run up to Paige and he kissed her cheek. 'See you tomorrow Paige!!!!' He was a handsome boy with blonde hair and dark eyes. 'LUCAS! Come on!' Cesca recognised that voice. She looked round and there was her old sort-of flame, Tom Clarkson. 'Oh, hey Cesca!!' 'Hey, Tom..how are you?' 'Yeah, I'm OK. Our children are dating apparently.' 'Yeah..Lucas told me. Interesting!!!' 'Indeed! Listen, I gotta go, Lennie needs feeding.' 'Oh is this your new baby? Jonah has told us so much about him!' 'Yep, Tom, meet Lennox. Or maybe just Lennie.' 'Hey Lennie, I'm Uncle Tom!' He took Lennie's tiny little hand and shook it. Cesca laughed loudly. They stood outside the classroom talking to eachother, laughing and joking, They said their goodbyes and walked in opposite directions. None of them realised how much that meeting would play on their mind. Cesca couldnt wait to take Paige to school tomorrow. She'd see Tom. That excited Cesca, a lot.
Chapter 24
Cesca and Paige walked slowly back home. Paige was telling her mummy about what she learnt at school and Cesca was nodding away, but her mind was totally on Tom. He was so handsome and lovely..thats why she liked him before. He had forgiven her with the Jonah situation - JONAH!! Cesca realised she couldnt like Tom, she had Jonah and wouldnt change him for the world. Cesca tried to forget Tom and texted Jonah instead. 'Hey Baby, want a romantic night in tonight? When kids are in bed? Feels like ages since we properly saw eachother! C x x x' Cesca put her phone in her pocket and her phone bleeped again. 'Hi Cesca, woz nice 2 c u, c u tomorra pickin da kidz up yeh? Tom x' Cesca looked at the message and she started laughing at Tom's text-language, then felt guilty again. 'Yes, Tom, See you tomorrow. Must dash though, I have a dentist apptment. C x' Cesca didnt have a dentist appointment but she knew she couldnt talk to Tom for long. Her phone bleeped again. 'Whatever you wanna do, sweetheart. J x x' Cesca smiled her beautiful smile and skipped along the path, Lennie in her pushchair and Paige along side her, trying to keep up. When Paige went to bed that night, Cesca cooked Jonah a meal - onlette and chips. They both liked this emal because the first time they'd seen eachother, Cesca had cooked an omlette in the spanish class. It reminded them of the good times - before Cesca went to jail. They had a wonderful meal and as they snuggled up on the sofa, watching Titanic. Cesca knew that Tom meant nothing to her, Jonah was the only one for her. 'I think we should get married again soon.' Jonah sounded nervous. 'Yeah, me too. Got a particular date in mind?' 'I have indeed.....30th June.' '30th June?! Why?!' 'Its the first day I kissed you.' 'Aww Jonah you're the sweetest. June 30th it is!!!' Cesca's face broke into another wide smile. Jonah was definately The One. They were the Kirby's...that could and would never change. Ever. Cesca loved Jonah.
Chapter 25
The next few months passed in a blur of wedding preparation. The kirby’s had booked the local church, chosen Paige’s bridesmaid dress, sent out the invitations, ordered the DJ, got a caterer for the reception which was to be held at their home, strangely enough.
Cesca still had Tom Clarkson on her brain and now didn’t talk to him at Paige’s school – she pretended to be on the phone, or talking to Paige. Nothing had happened between them, of course – Cesca was dedicated to her husband – but she was terrified of what would happen if she get too close.
She knew she had to talk to him soon, though. Jonah wanted to invite him to the wedding. Cesca hoped more than ANYTHING that he could be busy but she placed a bet with herself that he would more than willingly show up.
What made Cesca feel so much more awful was Jonah being so wonderfully sweet to her. Every now and then, he would make her breakfast in bed, or run her a bath, or book her in for a spa day. He was the most amazing man in the world, so why did Cesca want to see Tom?!
'Hey, Cesca..can you ask Tom if you see him today if he is coming to the wedding? I sent him an invite and he hasnt replied - and he seems to be avoiding me at work. Maybe he cant come and doesn't wanna tell me. I'd rather he just came out and told me, y'know what i mean?!' Jonah spoke to his wife who felt sick to the pit of her stomach at the idea of talking to Tom again.
'Yeah OK i will see if I see him. I don't see him too often nowadays.'
'Well just mention it if you see him please?!'
'Course I will sweetie.' Cesca looked at her husband and smiled. He kissed her, then kissed Lennie, then kissed Paige.
'have a good day, love you alll!'
'BYEEEEEEEE!' Then the door slammed.
'Right, come on you, school time!'
'YAAAAAAY!!!!'
Paige jumped up and ran to the front door, where they left for school. Cesca had never dreaded anything more in her life.
Chapter 26
Cesca dropped her daughter off into class and slowly walked to the gates. She hadn't seen Tom this morning which was good but Cesca secretly knew she had to see him. She walked towards the gate, cooing at Lennie in his pushchair. She was almost out of the gate and heard 'CESCA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CESCA WAIT UP!!'' her heart sunk to her stomach. She took a deep breath and turned round. Sure enough, she saw Tom jogging to meet up to her. 'Oh, erm, hey Tom.' 'How have you been?' 'Good. you?!' 'Yeah i'm fine.' There was an awkward silence between them and Cesca found herself staring at Tom. She forgot how handsome he was. He had beautiful eyes, a cute nose..and those lips, she didn't know if she could resist...somehow she did - 'Erm, Jonah wants to know if you're coming to our wedding?!' 'you are getting married again?!' 'Yeah, properly this time, hopefully with no police cars!' They both started sniggering, then Cesca repeated her question. 'Lets go for a coffee.' 'Erm, I cant. I've got to..erm..' 'Stop making excuses Cesca. Its coffee.' Cesca found herself nodding and they walked into town, talking about their children's romance. Apparently Lucas had proposed to Paige and she had said yes. This made them both roar with laughter. They walked into Costa, ordered a Latte for eachother and sat down. Cesca reached over to her son and lifted him out of his pushchair. She fed him and asked Tom to hold him while she took a trip to the ladies room. She went to the toilet and glanced at her phone. She had a message from Jonah. 'love you babe. not long and we will be re-married..exciting, aye!! j x x' Cesca couldn't help but get teary. Why was she being so disrespectful towards Jonah. He was her husband..Tom was nothing. She realised she needed to leave. She slowly walked over to where Tom was, holding her son. She took Lennie out of Tom's arms, placed him back into his pushchair and simply said 'Tom..I need to go. Please just..let me go.' She put on her trademark white coat with black rims and wheeled her son out of Costa, half-running. 'Cesca..please Cesca, just STOP.' Tom grabbed Cesca's arm, which made her stop abruptly. 'Look, I know what you're thinking. I'm thinking it too. I know you love Jonah, but i think you love me too, although you wont admit it to yourself will you!?' Cesca didnt react, just stared at him..well his lips. 'Tom, I really do love Jonah...more than anything..Its just..' 'I know.' Tom whispered. before Cesca knew what was happening, he leaned in to kiss her. And she didnt pull away. They were in th middle of a busy town and kissing. Cesa had butterflies, like the first time she'd kissed Jonah. OH MY GOD JONAH!!!!!!!!!! Cesca pulled away from Tom, who looked as shocked as her at what they'd done. 'im so sorry, Cesca..' 'Tom just SHUT UP. Leave me alone!' Cesca ran away from Tom, tears falling from her face. She got into her car, looked at herself in the wing mirror. Her make-up was smudged. She felt absolutely awful. She cried hysterically for about minutes but was interrupted by her message tone comign from her handbag. 'No, not comin to da wedding. Tom x' Cesca cried even more, not knowing what to do next.
Chapter 27
Cesca drove home, tears still falling from her cheeks. She didnt want to see Jonah, because that would mean her more than likely telling his what she'd done. Cesca couldn't believe she'd more than likely ruined the best thing that had ever happened to her. She knew that - like it or not - she had to tell him. Lennie could see his mum crying in the mirror and said 'Mummy sad'. It was the first thing he'd ever said and it should have filled her with happiness and joy, but instead, he made it even worse as Cesca cried even more. Cesca pulled her son out of his carseat and walked up the path to their home. Every step filled Cesa with dread but she knew that she couldnt keep it from Jonah. She put the key in the door and heard Jonah shout to her - 'hey baby!!!!' 'Hey.' Cesca walked into the living room and saw her oblivious husband sitting on the coach, laughing at Vicar Of Dibley. He beckoned to her to come over and sit next to him but Cesca didnt move. Jonah looked at her. 'Whats wrong, Ces? Have you been crying?!' 'Erm..yeah.' 'Why?!' Jonah got up and walked over to Cesca who pushed him away. Jonah looked at his wife and wiped away her tears. 'Jonah..stop being so nice to me..please.' 'Ces, you're really scaring me now..whats wrong?!' 'Sit down, please.' Jonah walked back over to wear he was sitting before and looked at Cesca who knew that honesty was the best policy. 'Jonah, I love you, ok..i dont know what happened..Just listen.' 'Francesca?!' 'OK, I saw Tom today and went for coffee with him in the high street. I asked him about the wedding - he isnt coming - and when we said goodbye we kissed. It lasted only a second and I dont know why it happened...it just did. i'm so sorry Jonah.' Jonah had tears rolling down his cheeks as well. How could Cesca do this to him!? Jonah knew that Cesca loved him...but could he forgive and forget?! 'You kissed Tom Clarkson?' Jonah was quiet. 'Yes..but it doesnt mean anything, it just happened. I pulled away though Jonah because i love you.' Jonah angrily pushed himself off the sofa and felt Cesca grab his arm. 'Jonah..dont leave, PLEASE..I love you!' 'Cesca...please leave me alone. I wanna be on my own.' 'Shall i move out?!' 'I dont know. Let me go.' Cesca let go of Jonah, scared that it could be the last time. 'I'll get Paige from school.' 'Dont do anything stupid, OK?' Jonah looked at her and simply said -
'Whatever.' He slammed the door and Cesca slumped herself against it. She cried again..How could she have been so STUPID?! She reached for her phone and typed a message to Jonah. 'I love you more than anything, OK. Whatever you decide, I support you. If you want to end it, I totally understand..but I hope we can fight..you're my world. C x x' Her phone bleeped immediately after. 'We'll See. J' That sounded less than promising to Cesca..She didnt like the sound of that.
Chapter 28
Jonah moved out that evening. Cesca begged him to stay but he didnt. 'I'm going to live with my dad for a little while. Just let me think, please?!' He'd kissed her on the cheek and told her he loved her - which made her feel even worse. Paige had asked to live with Jonah, so Cesca had to let her go..although she spoke to her every day. Jonah texted her each day too, making sure she was OK. Cesca decided she was going to go into town and try to forget what had happened - Retail therapy worked every time! As she looked at the rails of clothes in
front of her, she realised she was thinking about nothing except her husband.
She walked into McDonalds and saw the one person she really could have done
without seeing. Oh yes, Tom Clarkson was in front of her, playing with
Lucas. She tried to walk out discreetly..but tripped over. Not only did Tom look at her..but so did the whole restaurant. Cesca laid on the floor, not knowing what to do. She was sure Tom would be there when she finally stood up, but she was too embarrassed. 'Cesca, you know you're laying on a minging greasy floor that PROBABLY hasnt been washed for about 12 years?' Cesca found herself laughing at Tom. She took his hand and he helped her to her feet. She dusted herself down. She looked round as saw that she had a million pairs of eyes on her. 'OK, guys..eat your chips.. Im fine!' Tom laughed hysterically and he put his arm round her, guiding her outside. Lucas held onto his Dad's free hand..they looked like a family. Cesca pulled herself away from under Tom's arm.
'Thanks Tom, but i NEED to go. I cant be near you. Im not with Jonah anymore...well, i dont think i am. Tom, im a mess.' Cesca started crying. She didnt have anyone to talk to. The last person she wanted to speak to was Tom..it was half his fault she was in this mess. That didnt stop them tears falling though. 'Do you want coffee? I'll drop Lucas off back to his mum and we can have a chat, yeah?' 'Tom..i really shouldnt.' 'Come on. Im a friend.' Cesca nodded, tears falling from her face still. She didnt know what else to do. She got into his car and pulled her seatbelt across her.
'Cesca..are you OK?' Lucas sounded grown-up.
'yeah Im fine, Lucas. Grown-Ups get sad sometimes. 'Yes, Daddy is sad a lot.' 'Thats enough, Lucas!!!!!' They sat in silence, only talking to say goodbye to Lucas when they reached his mum's house. They waved goodbye until they'd gone round the corner, then Tom simply spoke one word 'Sorry.' Cesca shut her eyes, then looked out the window, wondering where this cpnversation was going, although she was sure she knew anyway. They pulled up outside Tom's house and got out the car. He opened the front door and ushered her in.
Chapter 29
Cesca woke up, her head banging. She saw three empty bottles of wine on the night stand next to her. She could smell the alcohol in her breath.It took her a few minutes to register where saw was. She certainly wasnt in her own bed. She looked round the room and saw pictures of Tom's son, Lucas. Then she saw photos of Tom and Lucas. She looked round the room again and her eyes met with Tom's. Cesca slumped on the bed, not believing how stupid she'd been.
'Morning..' Tom knew exactly what Cesca was going to say. 'Just..dont talk to me. I need to leave.' Tom watched in agony as Cesca got all her things together. She ran into the bathroom and got the clothes on that she wore yesterday. She grabbed her bag, ran down the stairs, opened the front room and breathed in the fresh air. She ran to the bus stop, her mind racing. Her phone bleeped - 'Cesca, i miss you so much. The kids miss you, especially Lennie. Please call me. You're the love of my life. I cant bear to be without you. Cesca - lets be a family again, please. J xxxxxxxxxx' Cesca sat on the bus, her head in turmoil. Everything could have been so perfect. Now look...she was more than likely going to end up divorced. She got off the bus and walked into her house. She took off her clothes and threw them away. She got in the shower and scrubbed her body. She couldnt be reminded of last night - she wanted to get rid of everything. She scrubbed her body until she was red raw. She sobbed uncontrollably, her tears falling down the plug hole along with the water from the shower. She got out and checked her phone again. 'Tom just rang me and told me about last night - i cant believe you'd do that to me. I'm filing for divorce. Cant believe i ever got involved with you. You've ruined my life. The kids are staying with me. J' That was it Cesca's life was over. She didnt have Jonah any more. She didnt have her children. She had nothing. She went for a walk, she was gone a good few hours. She rang Jonah on numerous occasions and got no answer. She walked round and round town, sat on grass fields, thinking about what to do next. It was dark when Cesca arrived home. She put her key in the lock, walked into the living room and saw a candle flicker. She saw the table laid out for two people. She saw someone sitting in one of the chairs. JONAH?! 'Jonah? Wha..W..What are you doing here?' 'Cesca just SHUT UP. Let me speak, OK?' Cesca nodded, not believing he was here. 'Right, i fell in love with you when I was a kid. I've had to grow up fast and I wouldnt change it at all. We're the parents of two beautiful children, we're married. Engaged to be married again. We've been through a lot. These last few weeks have been awful. Being without you breaks my heart. My heart fell in two when Tom called me this morning. Told me that you slept together...I was so angry. I even got in touch with a solicitor to start divorce proceedings. But when we were talking about it and iI realised the last thing I wanted wwas to ever be apart from you again. So I bought you this..' Jonah got a beautiful ring out of his pocket. It was a thin band with diamonds on it. It was an eternity ring. 'Now, you have got to wear this EVERY SINGLE DAY to remind you that you're married and will be your whole life. Is that OK with you, Francesca?' 'Babe, thank you so much. I promise I will NEVER risk our relationship like that again. I love you so much, so so so so so so MUCH.' Jonah grabbed Cesca and kissed her. He didnt want to let her go - and she didnt want him to. They went upstairs, both knowing what was about to happen. They couldn't have been any happier!
Chapter 30 - Sadly this will be Rosie's final chapter so enjoy! (remember to let her know what you thought!)
It had been five years since Jonah and Cesca had gotten back together. It had been amazing. Paige was doing well at school - she was top of the class in spanish and was better at cooking omlettes than her mother. Lennie had just started school. He had a different girlfriend every week - Although Lexi Fisher (Jess' daughter) had lasted longer than the rest. He was a handsome young boy - all the girls were after him. Cesca and Jonah had renewed their vows on June 30th, on the anniversary of their first kiss, just as Jonah had promised. It was a HUGEEE wedding, just as they'd always wanted. Jonah worked full-time at Waterloo Road. He had lots of fans there as he was known as 'The One Who Got With The Sexy Spanish teacher'..although he was reluctant to talk about it. Cesca had trained as a lawyer, so was earning good money. They'd moved into a four bedroom house, Jonah's sister Ruth and her son Jay came round all the time and got on well with Cesca - which meant a lot to Jonah. One lovely morning, the family had woken up early to celebrate Lennie's fifth birthday. 'Mummy, do I really need to go to school?' 'Yep, afraid so, baby boy.' 'But I dont want to!!' 'Well tough. Come on, eat your cereal.' 'OK.' He jumped onto his seat at the table and ate his coco pops. 'Mummy, can I wear make-up to school?' Paige asked randomly. 'No you cant. You cant wear make-up until you're at least 40. You dont need it. You're too beautiful to need make-up.' 'But mummy, you're beautiful and you wear make-up. So its not really fair.' 'NO MAKE-UP. Im a grown up. i'm allowed. Now, stop acting so grown up. You'll always be my little girl.' 'Mum, shutuppppp!' Paige was laughing. Jonah walked into the kitchen, kissed Paige, kissed Lennie and snogged Cesca. 'EURGH DADDY! Leave mummy alone!!!!!!!!' Lennie cringed. They laughed all together. Jonah and Cesca were hugging in the kitchen, then Paige said - 'Can I have a boyfriend?' 'NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!'
'Alright I only asked!' Paige had a big attitude. 'Less of the lip, lady! Now go, school!!! Last one to the car is a rotten egg!!!' Lennox and Paige grabbed their school bags and ran out the front door to the car. Jonah and Cesca laughed and kissed again. 'I love you, Jonah Kirby.' 'I love you too, Francesca!' They kissed again and walked out the front door holding hands. 'Oh, Jonah. I got something to tell you.' Cesca whispered to her husband. 'What?!' 'I'm pregnant again!!' She grinned happily at him and skipped down the path. Jonah ran after her, crying tears of happiness.
The future was bright for Cesca and Jonah...and they couldnt wait to see what life would throw at them next!!!