Annie11117 Love your review … so glad you didn't fall off your chair.
My muse and I couldn't decide where to break this chapter so folks it's a long one and I hope you'll not be too confused having two Bens around. …Enjoy.
And yes reviews and any comments are welcome…
Chapter 3
The twins kept silent while threading their way through the bustling crowd who had no inkling of the amazing occasion that was occurring and Ben just nodded to anyone who happened to wish him a good day rather than stopping for a chat. With some of the initial shock/elation settling down the twins were individually trying to get their heads around not only what had just happened but was it possible that they'd lived with each other in their early years and then on the day of the accident suddenly forgotten about each other.
Surely they would have called to or for each other if they were close or if not just for something familiar as their parents weren't around …
Knew from experience kids could whine something rotten if in distress and alone …or wanted something … Had they just cried for their parents and not their twin …or couldn't they cry or speak weren't allowed to … and then there were those headaches that seemed to join them in some way. Wouldn't other adults have known about them, seen or heard them on the train and said something and what about their adopted parents how much did they know... Did it happen as they believed…
And through these churning fleeting thoughts they could feel instinctive whispers/feelings they couldn't understand/workout only knew instinctively they were good and were helping them to settle adjust to the fact they were together again.
With all this lot going on they naturally tried to get a quick unobserved look each other … just to check it was really true they were identical … spot any differences from the face they saw in the mirror everyday, to check if their mannerisms were the same … they really couldn't a hundred percent the same now could they? And, to see how the other one was coping as well….
Only to find out they couldn't do sneaky looks because the other twin just happened to be doing the identical thing at the same time … Opps!
The first time - they immediately cut eye contact and looked smartly forward feeling slightly embarrassed at being caught out … and decided to wait a moment or two before trying again.
The second time - they smiled before that quick look forward, both thinking they really could not be thinking the same thing at the same time could they? … It was just the weird situation that was making them coincide … be identical.
The third time - they gave each other that slow smile and laughed then added an identical shrug of the shoulders before giving up and looking forward to see where they were going.
And that was the last time because they both silently realised they couldn't do it because yes they were thinking identical thoughts, but that really wasn't surprising all things considered. They also started to realise it really didn't matter … Because of this weird situation they had a twin … a blood brother and therefore blood family all of their very own … and even better the twin seemed to be happy and well loved just as he had been and was. Also they both let those earlier darker worries slide into the background and let the excitement of the present and future start to bubble its way up and quietly take hold of their thoughts and emotions.
While this was going on they were also keeping a check on their surroundings after all they didn't want to walk into anyone or thing. But also as one was a stranger to the town he didn't want to get lost. And the other one didn't want to walk past his own home … that would be really too embarrassing.
The houses they were walking by were of the same size, using the depth of the site rather than the width and all showed individual tastes so weren't by one architect/developer. Any gardens or garages were round the back so living rooms fronted onto the promenade with narrow passageways some private and others public rights of way dividing the houses. The one they were now coming to was different because it was set back and took up two plots instead of one, but it didn't shout 'money lives here' in a brash way. But you knew it did because it was built with good taste and materials, the stonework was clean showing off its true colour even though like the others around it had been there a few years. The four upstairs arched windows were tall and wide to take advantage of light and the view, and the balcony outside them didn't overwhelm the full length glass windows and doors below as it sheltered the small seating area outside of them.
Coming to the house Ben registered he was home and slowed to a stop, then getting the key to the main glass door out he turned to the group gathering behind him and giving a special glance at his wife quietly and proudly explained. "This is our home; I had it built as a wedding present for Maria. Who was a budding artist then so her studio is upstairs for the light and beautiful clear views across the bay. The beach is good for subjects during the day and became our garden for parties in the evenings. Now she is an established artist and designer and our growing family needs the extra rooms as well as a real garden to run in rather getting lost on the beach. So, it's with very mixed feelings we are moving and it will go on market once we've gone." and moved towards the glass doors to let everyone in.
Feeling this was all a bigger fluke than ever Ben followed his twin onto the decking and avoiding the two sets of tables and chairs couldn't help asking. "When and where?"
Unlocking and opening the glass door, which like all the other full length windows were netted for privacy Ben replied with a sigh. "We were meant start packing to leave at the weekend but the new kitchen units got delayed again, so I expect it will be two weeks time. We were going over there this afternoon to make sure the other new furniture could go in as originally planned, but we'll leave that till the morning. It's on a new estate on the edge of town so we'll be close to the beach rather than actually on it, and there's a small pool in garden so we can swim in peace as well."
As the others started to join them inside they all took in its atmosphere realising it was a loved and lived in home rather than one of those smart magazine snap shot ones and the furniture had been bought for use as well as good looks. It was a large open plan room catering for several uses and would look stunning when dressed up for special occasions. The impressive half circular staircase to their immediate right helped provide an alcove for a dinning area which was right next to the separate kitchen and smaller glass door that lead back out on to the promenade and side alley. The rest of the room was set out as lounge area with a large fireplace and mirror over as its centre piece, the alcoves either side housing bookshelves and a neat tv entertainment set up. The sofa and assortment of other chairs along with a low long glass table and low cabinet took up the rest of the room, leaving an area to the left of the large glass door they came in by for a working desk and two chairs. On the far side of the room past the kitchen and coat cupboard was the front door and on checking it out they realised there was a corridor behind the lounge wall that housed the fireplace, which meant there were more rooms out of sight.
Knowing time was short as they'd come in from the promenade Ben marched across the room to the front door and quickly keyed in the numbers in the alarm pad beside it to stop it going off and scaring everyone. Then turning back to the group feeling that strange kick of awe at seeing yourself in the group was glad they were somewhere private and asked. "Anyone want drinks or shall we leave it Ricardo gets here in moment or two." He reckoned about five minutes, ten at the most.
Everyone glanced at everyone else and came to the silent answer they would wait with Maria casually confirming it saying. "We'll wait Meg's father will be dying for one after Ricardo's given him the third degree."
Knowing her father Meg couldn't help smiling and replying. "Think they will be as bad as each other so they will both need reviving."
Maria chuckled realising there was already a family feeling rather than one of awkward strangers, and turning her attention to her husband as she let her fidgety son have his freedom said quietly. "Don't be too hard on Ricardo you know he's had a bad week with the fallout from Eddie's death."
Moving a couple of upright but comfortable chairs near to the ordinary armchairs Ben said with understanding. "I wont, I know he wasn't thinking straight. But there is no excuse for Annie taking it out you with that phone call, she knows I'm not like that and she claims to be your friend."
Removing the baseball cap and running his fingers through his hair Ben picked up on his twin's conversation and quietly commented. "There was a redhead on the town side of road who mouthed something unrepeatable before storming away looking for something in her bag, that could have been a phone. Moments later a man bumped into me outside the Waffle Shop he'd been arguing with a dark haired woman rather than looking where they were going. She pulled him away from us before he could explode when he saw I had my arms round Meg. Didn't get a chance to find out what it was about as they didn't hang around and we went into the Waffle shop to find our group for reassurances the world wasn't mad. Found they'd split up, got a drink found out the job was off and Ricardo came in confronted us and then you two came in and rescued us."
Realising what his twin had been through Ben gave an apologetic smile to him and said softly. "Glad we did. You must have been wondering if you'd walked into another world especially as I walked in." and ended up with a true smile as he huffed gently. "Way beyond belief!"
Seeing his twin's nod and his smile was reaching his eyes Ben knew they were on the same wavelength and carried on. "No idea about the couple might get an apology and introduction once word gets out about the truth. As for the redhead that fits Annie and she's feeling very bitter at the moment, Eddie her partner was killed several days ago outside The Deep. As its my nightclub she blames myself and Ricardo for letting it happen. I hasten to add it was a one off situation this is not a violent town by any means, also if Eddie had not been killed saving an innocent person caught up in one of his schemes Ricardo would have been arresting him for being a bent cop. As you can imagine there's a lot hurt and rumours flying around, and Ricardo's caught up in it and that's why he jumped to the wrong conclusion rather than calmly working it out as he usual would have. I'm sorry he reacted the way he did and glad you didn't hit out at him."
Then paused suddenly realising that like knowing what was behind his twin's smile just now he knew exactly how he would have reacted and added wistfully. "Wished I'd been there to see myself blow my top like that, it would have been very interesting. Pity they don't have cameras inside."
Saw his twins' smile and nod and realised with a kick he was right they could both now see the whole picture in a way no one else could … knew the true depth behind the smile or shrug of the shoulders or reactions … and that was really weird. And turned serious saying. "Reckon we should put something in tonight's paper so people are warned there's an identical twin with a family around and hopefully that will make things slightly easier for everyone in the days to come. We'll face .." And his thoughts instantly changed direction seeing who was making a break for freedom and remembering her name raised his voice saying. "Sara, could you shut the door or we'll lose our son on the beach."
Hearing her name Sara zapped back to the present rather than what she was watching and carefully shut the glass door. Then found the attempting escapee wasn't Benjy as she'd expected, and looked up to see who'd called her. Saw it wasn't her Ben as he was trying to catch Benjy and failing, saw the other twin was saying "thank you" and huffed under her breath. "At least back home they look and sounded different." And her butterfly mind immediately jumped back to what she'd been watching making her comment. "A couple of lifeguards were rushing into the sea while some of the bathers seemed to be making a quick exit."
Simon, realising this stranger was too quick for him immediately diverted his attention to something else he knew he could do.
Ignoring the intriguing comment and over Joan's quiet "not now Sara" Ben explained. "They might be getting out the way of a rescue or it could be a rip-tide" Then remembering he'd heard the word Kansas mentioned added. "That's a strong undercurrent that can catch bathers out, shouldn't last too long and they will go back in when the all clear is given. The lifeguards have a couple of small boats that can help out if needs be so its no problem. Sit where ever you wish but avoid middle of the sofa, I think the springs have gone and I'm not going to try it to find out I'd never get up. Not even going to think of Maria trying."
Seeing Maria give a slight smile he explained. "Simon used it as a trampoline this morning and I wasn't quick enough to stop him. Of course, we now have the dilemma of buying something for the few days we are here or surviving till we move. A new suite has been ordered for the other house, we thought we'd keep this lot so he could use them … wreck them in the future but he's started a little bit too early."
Unable to resist a playful dig at her husband Meg commented softly. "Guess we now know where Benjy gets his destructive traits from, especially as he's one up on his cousin."
Looking at her Ben huffed at her gently. "That was a very old sofa anyway." Seeing his twin's look he added. "The other was his bed; he woke up early and got bored so kept bouncing holding on to the end and you can guess the rest. I warned him he'll sleeping on the floor if he bounces again."
"Hope it works." His twin said softly, then eyeing his wife with love rather than anger as he heard her soft chuckle and letting his glance slowly go back to his twin he added softly. "Guess this twin thing might have a draw back or two if they are going to compare notes." And heard his twin reply softly "true."
Having their own private thoughts Meg and Maria smiled at each other and then glanced at the twins in time to see them shake their heads in teasing despair, which was a bit much for Maria and needing a diversion said. "Meg, I find the higher chairs easier at the moment that's why Ben's put them by the other ones, so you welcome to one. If they want to the boys can play on the raised area by the glass doors and windows while we talk."
They all knew they wanted to talk know the others story… it was just a case of who was going first rather … Guests or Hosts …or all together … and feeling a pull at his trousers near his knee Ben glanced down expecting to see his son wanting a pick up now his escape plans had been thwarted and saw the other child looking up at him. Couldn't help marvelling at their likeness that seemed to go deeper than just looks and wondered if he would be called daddy … surely not as he was standing nearby … but he could see a deep thoughtful question was coming so waited.
Having worked things out in his mind and finally given his dad the slip, and got to his goal Benjy eyed the man looking down at him and stated quietly. "Uncle Ben" (though it came out as 'on call' Ben which always made his family smile) then immediately glanced to the one he knew very well adding. "Daddy Ben" And then immediately glanced over at the other boy he'd been weighing up all the way here. They boy in question had stopped trying to pull the cushion out of its box having heard the other child speak and looked at him, so they were looking at each other very seriously. And Benjy gave a huge sigh and stated. "Cuzzy Ben, Benny or Benjy?" And started to glance back at his uncle to find out which one it was, but was diverted by the very familiar loving laugh of his daddy so looked at him instead, giving another sigh.
Totally understanding that sigh 'of not another one!' Ben laughed, and staying there rather than walking over to his son he crouched down to his level and indicating who he was talking about with his hand explained gently. "You are right about Uncle Ben and Daddy Ben, but he's not cousin Ben, Benny or Benjy, he's Cousin Simon. Do you want to go over and say hi and play quietly together with toys that you'll have give back before we go."
Understanding the rules Benjy beamed and immediately left his Uncle Ben to find this new treasure calling out as he walked over towards him. "Cuzzy Simon… Cuzzy Simon. I'm Cuzzy Benjy …" and when he got there they hugged and then both pulled the cushions out of the box so they could use them. They both knew all about uncles and cousins so could be friends and share toys, and Simon pulled another box out and they silently started to sort out the toys….
Whether they would stay quiet or the friendship would last both sets of parents and one grandmother knew was entirely different matter. But seeing the boys' reactions had made them all smile and the child's question and sigh gave Ben the opening he wanted and commented to his twin. "A lot of Ben's in your adopted family then?"
Over Sara's snort of a laugh and the others' smiles, Ben got up from his crouch and answered with a sigh. "Yes to many to count. And it's a long story about inheritance, feuds, family businesses and one-up-manship in the past that led to it. But when my adopted father Benjy Smith died last year I was able to complete his wish to end it so no one had to have a Benjamin in the family unless they really wanted it. But we could only do that because our son was called Benjamin though we use Benjy as the family name and we didn't mind doing it because we loved my adopted family and fully understood the reasons for it. Though we would have liked to have used Derek after …" and hesitated finding this new situation difficult and looking at his twin added "our father even though we didn't know anything about him so used it as a second name."
Watching his twin and understanding that part of family history was too painful to discuss just yet and instinctively knew they were both orphans again chipped in saying softly. "I'm sorry for your loss. Simon Albright my adopted father died after a long illness a week after our son was born. We considered calling our son Derek but the name was already taken by Ricardo's son who is just over four, so used it as his second name. We didn't want the difficulty of having two young boys with the same …"
And stopped with a smile at the irony of that now, found it was returned by his twin and feeling the need he had to explain added. "I expect you'll meet the boy as he's due to join Ricardo possibly permanently if Maria and I've read the situation correctly. His ex-wife Tess is going on a short trip with her new partner and it's out of the State, he's been talking about a new job but not where. Certainly not around here as there hasn't been any gossip about it so I think she'll ring Ricardo with the news that she's not coming back once they'd checked things out. The day care arrangements will carry on as they do now and Gabi, Ricardo's new partner has just moved in with him so there will be someone around in evenings, and the three of them get on very well. But must admit the Loft they live in is a bit small so they will have to find an apartment fairly soon. She works with the police as a civilian assistant so its usually normal hours for her, while Ricardo's can vary a lot and Tess knows that we or Carmen will have Derek should both of them have to work in crisis. Also Ricardo won't say no to situation because he loves the boy too much."
He paused needing to get away from tugging thoughts and remembering his twin's earlier words got things back on track saying. "You said you were going to Sunrise for the job that got cancelled. If it had been here I would have heard about it or been teased about the coincidence at least so might have gone looking for you. I've got a mixture of businesses own and inherited as well as adopted relations and friends with long ears and a taste for gossip, so why come off the freeway so early?"
The others had quietly settled in their seats deciding to let the twins do their own thing and take the lead in all this. They could sense these two were finding their bearings with each other as they talked … were doing it on a conscious level as well as on a deeper one and didn't need their input just yet. Knew they would give it if needed and the twins had lost their loved ones once again, but had people who loved them around who helped them cope with it.
Listening to his twin instinctively knowing they were feeling the same emotional muddle over all of this and their family history could wait Ben ducked the question by commenting easily. "Just to add to the fun, back home I've got family money in 'The Barn', which serves as a nightclub and restaurant come general 'gathering hall' for special nights, weddings etc." And paused as he glanced at his wife and over at Joan then back to his twin and Maria before adding softly. "Well, I couldn't call it The Old Cow Shed now could I?"
Meg couldn't stop her giggles knowing the whole story behind the club and was glad Maria was really smiling and not giving a polite look at the comment. Knew she was feeling more comfortable in her presence, as well as this weird situation of seeing a very familiar twinkle in the other twin's eyes and knowing that slight smile. Guessed the full story would be told later and let her own Ben carry on.
He got things back on track by answering his twin's question. "We had to come off the freeway because the police blocked it further up. We managed to stop Benjy wanting a kiddie break but as we drove passed The Deep the headache slammed into me so had to stop. Had fun trying to park and once out the car wanted to walk back the way we came not the other way. If we'd not stopped at the Cafe we might have ended up knocking on your door or possibly bumping into each other on the way. So I've no doubt we called to each other ... picked up on each other.
Don't know what would have happened if we'd not been diverted, the towns are closer than the States of California and Kansas and we would have explored the area whether or not I'd taken the job so perhaps we just got here early by doing it this way." He sighed knowing it really didn't matter it was just his brain trying to unravel things and added. "Anyway the headache has moved into something more comfortable which I can't put into words and though it was shock at the time I'm glad it happened."
As his twin gave a smile and just nodded knowing words weren't needed, Ben guessed that minor headache had turned into the same feeling as his and continued. "Like you I've earned and inherited money, I'm a doctor and used to have my own practice, Hank and Joan used to own their farm but sold it recently so were living in town marking time. Unfortunately a family friend on Meg's side returned and became a violent stalker was caught but his family started making life difficult for us. So we decided rather than live with that tension we would move, sort of take the fuel out the fire before someone got really hurt. Also stop a feud starting which would have been accidental rather than deliberate on my adopted family's side as the Smith clan as we call the extended family covers about every trade you can think in the area including several in the law department. The house is being watched for us till we give the final word about selling it and we'll go back to visit the clan and friends once the dust has really settled. Sara has just come back from a stint in Washington DC and having no job ties so decided to join us in a new start."
Then added with a slight smile. "Guess I'll be job hunting again, but will do that once we are settled in. We've enough to live on so that's no real trouble and I think Hank might have his eyes on the Waffle Shop Cafe already so I can always work for him if needs be."
Sara really couldn't help laughing at that picture but stopped at her mother's quiet. "It's more likely to be you than Ben sweetheart." Seeing the retort 'not on your life' about to come from her daughter Joan added with a quiet edge. "You need to earn a wage before you get a flat or even a room separate from us. And considering what happened in Washington I think your father is going to want you close to hand while you suss out the local talent." Then sugaring the pill added with a knowing smile. "What better way to kill two birds with one stone than working in the café for six months and living rent free. He's not that bad and not likely to be there for all the shifts."
Sara beamed at that thought and settled down slightly, while Joan totally unembarrassed by her motherly outburst remembered what she'd noticed earlier and turning to the others commented. "Looking round the cafe I noticed there wasn't a waffle for sell or on menu in fact not a hint of one except in the name."
There was a gentle familiar laugh that was still slightly unsettling as it wasn't coming from their Ben, because he was silent looking at his twin for an answer.
With a glance at Maria who was smiling broadly Ben stopped his laugh and explained. "It's a family run café and I think it was her great grandmother who started it and she made wonderful waffles hence its name, so did her daughter but unfortunately the talent skipped the present generations so she turned it into a general café that's good but doesn't have that sparkle the others apparently did. It ticks over all right but as her daughter has just moved to another town on another business adventure she's decided to go and join her."
Giving Joan slightly pleading smile he added. "I hope if you take it over you'll make waffles as I love them and Maria can't do them for love or money." then before she could react turned gently serious and came clean. "And by the way I don't fear any competition either. Apart from The Deep I own the Java Web an internet café that does drinks, snack meals, cakes and feeds students before the catch their buses in the morning. And no waffles there either."
Joan couldn't help smiling seeing all the similarities between the twins shining through and said. "Yes I do and will, so I guess I'll have at least two customers then, just don't fight over them. What about making the kitchen larger and possibly have homemade food and/or barbecue style rather than just snack food they appear to sell at the moment?"
Picturing the place he'd been to many times Ben thought and then said. "Umm not a bad idea, could have barbecue evenings rather than all the time. If memory serves me right there might be plans already approved to expand the kitchen and you could put extra setting round the outside that's been reduced recently." then with a slight smile and a glance at his twin he added playfully. "Also I promise not to fight him or play on my good looks for your waffles I'll just sit and wait for them."
And over Joan's soft chuckles and Maria's shake of her head in disbelief at his antics he turned his attention back to his smiling twin and said seriously. "And Ben, I've no doubt Doctor Robinson at the hospital would like a chat with you when you are ready. He's always on the look out for new doctors. That's not because it's a bad hospital he and it are good, they just get head hunted by the seriously better ones elsewhere and leave.
But, I'm still intrigued as to why you chose Sunrise after all you must have had the rest of the States even the world at your beck and call. So, are you specialised in something rare and is it based there and we don't know about it yet?"
Feeling more at home with his twin as there weren't any hostile vibes coming from him just ones that felt somehow familiar Ben glanced at Meg and smiled.
Seeing that knowing smile Meg knew payback was coming for her earlier remarks and watched her charming husband with that all too sweet innocence look, glance back at his twin and promptly dropped her right in it saying. "No, I'm in general and emergency practice, more with children than adults and Meg can take the blame for choosing Sunrise, which was just going to be part-time general practice."
With a gentle but toned "Oh! Thank you sweetheart." Meg knew this was going to sound soo bad and glanced round the group saw her mother smile knew she'd best get in first and batted some of blame back on her soulmates' shoulders explaining. "But it's just as much Ben's fault as mine because he said yes to it and his receptionist Aunt Becky is a part time clairvoyant. … Brings out the tent, crystal ball and long floaty skirts etc on town fete days and charity dos. And of course being his receptionist not only hears the gossip from patients in the waiting room also hands out cups of tea if I pop in and try and see him when he's busy or out on call. I hasten to add she can keep confidences when needs to and everyone knows that so perhaps that's why everyone talks to her."
Hearing the last bit Ben couldn't help his huge smile that went with the twinkle in his eyes and he could feel Maria failing to suppress her giggles completely. Realising their reactions might seem rude rested his hand on his wife's arm so she would know he would explain and did so with ease. "We know all about clairvoyants, Carmen, her mother, is a full time one with all the trimmings of cards, candles and crystal ball etc and uses her house rather than a tent. Though it still looks like one from the inside with bright net floaty curtains and strings of little multicoloured light bulbs for effect.."
Taking a breath he then gave a lovely chuckle and a slight shake of his head adding. "Oh, Ricardo is really going enjoy himself when he talks to her. She never saw this lot coming. Mind you she's always claims I'm too foggy not enough history or something and family are difficult anyway, but never stops her from predicating for them. She keeps saying Gabi's not good for him but they adore each other after sticky start and she can cope with police hours whereas Tess couldn't. Antonio the last member of the family and the youngest is a catholic priest at The Mission in town is no doubt be busy but will think it's great after the shock of it. Not sure when you'll meet them but you'll like them when you do. So …." he ended gently giving Meg a lead in.
Feeling totally at ease by his manner and the history she was hearing Meg said. "Aunt Becky could never take a reading off Ben either, said they were too muddled but could read feelings through body language, so knew his moods. She gave me a cup of tea while he was out and took a reading from the dregs. Told me to look for somewhere the sun and the sea meet, and think about moving back in time rather than forward, which sounded mad. Also that our family would increase, there would be new ideas and we would find a deeper happiness, which I thought was impossible… so did she as she knew we so deeply in love with each other."
She smiled and gave a soft chuckle then added. "I really don't think she saw this coming either, she's one of the Smith clan by marriage and of course working with Ben knew our situation inside out and I always enjoy talking to her. Later when I told Ben about it he was carrying a new batch of medical brochures to browse for likely jobs, so we decided to run with her reading for fun.
He was already looking for something part time and was willing to consider lecturing or writing if nothing else was available. And we decided that going back in time meant going west rather than east due to the time zones rather than finding a way to travel back in time. Also the sun meeting sea had to be the coast and looking out at the horizon. All very logical and helped us narrow things down. We were chucking out long waiting times as we needed to move quickly, private resident jobs as we wanted our own home and the plain boring jobs. And spotted the advert for the hospital in Sunrise that seemed tick the boxes especially regarding the interview. So he rang and was told it was still open and he sounded a good candidate so they emailed the forms, which were duly filled in and sent back. We then sorted out passing on the practice etc and arranged the three day drive, did it and the rest as they say is history."
They all laughed but then the twins, who'd both stayed standing by their wives rather than sitting in the chairs, shivered violently and looked at each other suddenly very seriously. Both were trying hard to resist the need to flee as waves of darker feelings/thoughts came crashing down on them.
The others immediately quietened as they noticed the sudden change but before they could react a toys were banged on the floor and a clear demand of "Ices please" came from the two boys who'd got bored with so called quiet play and no adult attention and had remembered the reason they'd been at the Waffle Shop Cafe.
Reacting immediately Maria said. "Yes if Meg doesn't mind. Mint chocolate chip is Simon's favourite, though we do have several other flavours as well."
Quickly checking her Ben was okay Meg said. "That will be lovely its Benjy's as well. He's a messy eater though."
Getting up Maria put a hand on her husband's arm hoping to reassure him or bring him out of the dark mood that was affecting him and his twin, and then starting to walk towards the kitchen saying. "That's okay Simon's the same that's why we have a pile of spare clothes in the downstairs washroom."
Ben was glad of the interruption and her light touch and voice grounding him enough so he could say, just as she finished. "Boys, clear the area and put the cloth out, then put the cushions on the lower floor to sit on." But with the need for space and churning emotions still too strong to be ignored added. "I'm going to the study and get the papers and my treasure box for Ricardo. I've not opened it since childhood." and walked over to the corridor behind the lounge wall not looking at anyone.
Realising what was needed Joan nodded to Sara to go and help with children and got up to walk over to Maria. Catching her up just she reached the kitchen door Joan said quietly so the others wouldn't hear. "Tell me where the ice creams are and then go. Your soulmate needs you."
Maria stopped and looked at her and gave a very gentle sigh, feeling an understanding she'd never gained with her mother and said. "No one realises that's how I feel about him."
Joan smiled and said truthfully. "You and Ben mirror the same deep love and strength I see in Meg and her Ben. I think the darker possibilities are hitting the twins very hard as they have been getting on so well and so quickly. He needs your strength to face the fact its history and there is a future together whatever is revealed today. Sara and I will look after Simon and Benjy. Hopefully Ricardo and Hank will be here soon so the waiting will be over."
Opening the kitchen door surprised at her warmth and understanding Maria answered. "Thank you. The bowls and small towels are on the side and the freezer is next to the sink and the ice creams are on the second shelf down."
Then turning away from the kitchen she glanced across the lounge area and saw Sara had already gone to the boys and Simon seemed happy with her. And Meg and Ben were now standing in front of the fireplace mirroring how she and her husband would be when they needed comfort from each other, and realised that although Meg was slightly shorter than she was her Ben wasn't dominating her … they were equal in love and confidence … and knew they felt and received the same love as she and her Ben did, so they were soulmates it was not just a dream of hers … theirs. And suddenly found the idea of loving an identical twin comforting rather than plain weird or frightening ... and this family was going to be good to have around….
oxoxo
It only took Maria a moment to reach the study and through the doorway she saw Ben put a large envelope and papers on his desk from the safe before reaching in and slowly taking out a metal box. She knew this box never came out he just needed to know it was there and safe, it was the only thing from his early life that he knew nothing about, and could see the turmoil he was in from his body language as he put it on the desk and then stood looking at it. Moving into the room she said gently. "Ben talk to me."
With the fears screaming through his mind he could only shake his head to say he wasn't going to, and then felt her touch on his shoulder and heard her soft. "I love you. Always will."
The fact that she was there gave him some strength and he asked shakily. "Simon?"
She knew that diversion tactic and answered. "Sara and Joan are looking after the boys. Joan said my soulmate needed me ..."
Ben slowly moved so they faced each other but still rested one hand on the box and looked at her … saw her love and strength … knew that was their private name for each other …
Seeing his darkness she hoped her love would be enough to ground him, support him and carried on gently. "She sees the same love and strength in Meg and Ben and understands it … to hear it said like that is marvellous ... true. And he is so like you there is nothing to fear … in fact he has the same fear as you do. He's talking to his soulmate now … so talk to me let me give you the same strength she gives him."
Recognising the look/the connection he'd seen between his twin and Meg for what it was Ben could feel his soulmate's strength, held onto it and said softly. "What if we had to be separated because of the headache I seemed to give him … What if we asked for the separation because we hated each other and our adopted parents couldn't tell us … and it's all in the envelope or box?"
Maria gently stroked his face and said. "I think they would have told you at some point. They've always said they couldn't trace your past and that was why you've never looked in the box. So believe in their love and honesty. Your twin said the bad headache has gone that it is different now, has your mild one gone, do you feel a difference as well?"
Seeing his nod she carried on gently. "We will face the truth as adults in the present rather than the small child … children you two were then. Go by what you felt when you heard there was a double in town and what you felt as you walked into the Cafe and really saw him for the first time."
Ben tried to, it had been such an exciting feeling but the darker thoughts made him say. "What if the truth is even darker than that? Our parents were looking for us and died not knowing the truth or didn't want us so left us or what if we will never know the truth because there is nothing in the box that can be explored with new technology."
She knew those were the darkest fears and said gently lovingly. "Then we will all face that together as two families joined by twin brothers who feel comfortable with each other and want to be with each other. You know waiting is always the worst time."
He knew the honesty of her words and with a nod of acceptance from him they hugged and kissed, then gently separated knowing the strength in their love for on another. Feeling the darkness shift back a bit Ben picked up the things he needed, and Maria holding his hand walked with him back to the main room while asking quietly. "Whatever happens they need privacy and feeding, shall we phone for sandwiches?"
Glad he could anchor his mind of something mundane he started to think about it but coming back into the lounge area he could feel a strange wave of warmth that broke through any barrier he was keeping up and realised his twin was watching him, and knew he was feeling the same as he was. Had had those darker fears of family rejection, of them rejecting each other and other what if's that might have happened and knew though they mattered it wouldn't break them, wouldn't separate them … they wouldn't let it. And without thinking about his actions he let go of Maria's hand and walked over to the desk and put the things he'd been carrying on it, then walked over to his twin who was coming to meet him ... and when they were close enough they hugged without any hesitation.
It was a brief silent man to man hug with no outward emotions showing … both knew they wanted, needed this … had thought of it in that same moment … and had the same feeling … it was their twin link calling to each other… now it was mended it was not going to be broken again.
Then it was over and they separated with just a nod to each other, and went back to their wives … soulmates … knowing that invisible barrier of fear had been broken. They had parted as children for whatever reason, now they were together as adults and could cope with it all. And the hug that the others saw noted was uncannily like the hug Simon and Benjy had given each other on realising they were cousins and could be friends.
Anchored by what had happened and now having his soulmate Maria beside him Ben faced the group and said easily. "I hope you'll stay for lunch. We were going to have a working one of sandwiches at The Deep. Rather than go there and face the public I thought I'd get some sent over and we can deal with things at our leisure. Any preferences or fads they know Maria's and Simon's off by heart."
As her husband came back to her Meg smiled seeing the difference that instinctive hug had made … knew those darker fears were settling and wanting to get in before he made any comment said. "Benjy's a bit of a dustbin like his Dad and as long as there is something other than cheese I don't mind. I only like a local farm cheese which I'll miss once we run out of what we brought with us in the cooler."
Seeing his twin's reaction to being called a dustbin Ben laughed and then tried to keep it at bay while commenting. "Right then two and half dustbins as I must be the same as you. And a mixture without cheese for the lady." then managing to calm down added. "Perhaps your parents might trying selling that kind of cheese at the Waffle shop and I could try it at the Java Web or The Deep to make it worthwhile flying an order in every so often. I would think it could be kept in a cold area something like the wine cellar at The Deep if there isn't any room at the café." and then turned his attention to the others saying. "Sara, Joan what about Hank, I know Ricardo will pick up whatever's hanging around being a detective."
Maria chuckled knowing he was right about Ricardo and if caught would innocently pronounce he might be called out at a moments notice so needed to be feed and prepared.
Still dealing with the boys and ice creams Sara and Joan glanced at each other for confirmation and then Joan said. "Hank and I aren't fussy so a mixture will be fine but Sara would prefer a meat Pizza if that's okay."
"Yes that's easily done, I'll get milk and juices sent over for hot and cold drinks as we were going to buy those later, I've no doubt Mark …" And stopped because the phone started to ring, not wanting it to go to the answer machine he walked over and picked it up said the phone number, then smiled realising who was on the other end as they talked and then said. "Great minds think alike obviously. We'll be eating here and it would be good if you could come round with food as soon as possible."
As Mark asked how many Ben realised it would be better to have too much and said. "We are bigger group now so make it for seven adults for mixed choice, one lot without cheese and we'll store any leftovers. Maria's and Simon's specials and an extra child selection, he's the same age as Simon so finger size would be good. And one heated meat Pizza, a round of cakes also milk and juices enough for the rest of the afternoon please." He listened to the comments and then added with a chuckle. "Yes, same name and taste in clothes so you'll have to watch yourself you won't know who is who. Wife's name is Meg and son's called Benjy and I'll go over that paperwork we started on later possibly this evening … …. Yes that its thanks see you soon."
As he put the phone down the front door bell rang and was then followed by the sound of a key being put on the door to unlock it.
Before glancing in that direction Ben saw the state of the boys and said with a gentle laugh. "There's a small washroom next to study along corridor there should be some tops for the boys I think that is one battle we will always lose." Then with a sigh he turned his attention to the front door adding. "That's Ricardo he's got a key so I guess it's down to business, then." And saw the nod of agreement from his twin and felt a small wave of nervousness as they both waited while the detective finished opening the door and started to walk in.
Oxoxo
Hope that was not too confusing for you and as always reviews and comments are welcome.
Be back in a while
