Seth needed to go to work by midday and he was being picked up in a car. He had persuaded me that I should spend the day relaxing and making myself at home sitting by the pool rather than going back to the apartment. I weakly agreed, still feeling emotional and not really in the mood to argue when I couldn't really see how going to the apartment and being alone would help. I had waved him off from the door holding Chester on my shoulder so he didn't run around as the car came into the drive. He had kissed us both goodbye on the head, which did make me smile a little and Seth looked delighted with this scene of domestic bliss. He was clearly happy I was staying. It did feel good inside making him so happy and it was telling that he trusted me so much that he would leave me alone in his home.

I padded about the house and made myself some coffee, whilst longing for a good strong cup of tea instead. I now knew how to operate the doors and had them wide open to the pool area. Chester followed me around swishing his tail and sat nearby wherever I went. I took a look through Seth's entire Library. He had a huge archive area at the back of the house, which was catalogued and completely full of books, Vinyl albums, CDs, DVDs and magazines. Also in the room were some awards for song writing and scoring and some platinum framed album sales discs on the walls. They were perfectly organised and neat. After selecting a couple of books I made my way back to the pool and sat with them in the shade of the trees. I stretched out on the steamer chair, letting the tips of my toes reach out to the sunlight, which fell just across the foot of it. The breeze was light and the air warm. I listened to the sound of the wind blowing through the palms and sighed, enjoying the peace and solitude. I sipped some icy water. Feeling all together better. I resolved to ring Anna back.

'Hey stranger' came Anna's reply after answering on the first ring.

'Hi. How are you?' I asked, grateful that she sounded cheery, not cross.

'Seems more like I should be asking you that' she chuckled. 'I take it you're at Seth's place?'

'Yeah I am. He's not here, he had to go to a meeting.'

'Yes I know, I saw him.'

'Oh?'. For some reason it made me feel uneasy when she said this, but only because I had continued believe that the little bubble Seth and I were living in was not really connected to the real world, so someone else knowing what we were doing felt odd.

'It's ok he's not been dishing, silly.' She laughed. 'I'll say this though, he had a whacking smile on his chops lady, so you must be doing something right!'

'He did?' I tried not to sound too chuffed but the thought that I may be making him so happy he couldn't hide it did make me feel content. Smug almost.

'So what have you two been up to - need I ask?' she laughed 'There's only one thing which makes men that happy...'

'Uh well I can't deny it' I sighed and then laughed.

'Actually, I've changed my mind, spare me the details, please' she retorted.

'So when are you going to resurface? We need a catch up!' she asked cheerily.

'Uh… I don't know. Maybe we can meet later? Thing is I was going to stay here today…' I trailed off realising that I didn't really know what would happen today. Having started the day off the way we had, practical discussions hadn't really come into it before Seth left. I was just about to continue when I noticed I had a call waiting, glancing at the screen 'SM' was displayed.

'Oh Anna, can I call you back, it's him now'

'Tsk, he can't leave you alone for 5 minutes!' she cringed. 'Yep sure, call me back'

I cut her off.

'Hello you' I said into the handset.

'Hey yourself' came the reply. 'How're you doing?' I loved hearing his voice on the phone, it seemed even deeper than in person and he was sounding gorgeously flirty.

'I'm doing fine. Just sitting by the pool with Ches and having a read of some of your books'

'That's good… help yourself to anything you want to do ok? Make yourself comfortable'

'Ok'

'So listen, I forgot to tell you someone is coming to the house today… there's a guy called Matt who comes to look after the place and he is going to be over there doing some maintenance stuff for me. I'm sorry I forgot to say and he's going to be there in about five minutes'

'Oh God really?' I panicked.

'Yeah – don't worry though, he knows you're there and he's a really cool guy. He's more of a friend even though he works for me sometimes. He makes a great lunch if you talk nicely to him' he laughed.

I wasn't so sure but I couldn't exactly complain. I felt a slight sense of panic.

'Also, I was thinking about what you said earlier quite a bit and I thought, if you're ok with this, I was going to ask a couple of people to come round to the house later for dinner so you can get to know them. Just some good friends of mine, maybe we ask Anna to come too. Nothing formal, just a get-together so everyone can meet each other… I want my friends to know you. What do you think?'

He was full of surprises today.

'I… guess so… I began slowly… yeah. I was just talking to Anna on the phone when you rang actually'

'Ok so do you want to tell her about it and I'll do the rest?'

'You don't need me to do anything here?' I asked, wondering if I actually knew enough about the place to be able to help without a hundred questions anyway.

'No - thanks babe. I've got this guy who can come down and make us some food, he'll get it all and bring it down to us.' It all sounded very informal but I knew he was talking about bringing in a chef and that making us some food was probably going to be pretty special. I was beginning to get used to Seth's tendency to play things down quite a lot. I realised it was just his way. He was low-key about most things despite the fact that there was grandeur, expense and wonder all around him, he preferred not to notice it.

I finished my call with him and got back to Anna again who was very keen to come along. I was quite grateful about that so at least I had one other familiar face to keep me company that evening. As I was putting down the phone I heard a shout from inside the house.

'Knock, knock' A sing-song voice came from within. 'There you are!' a slim, blonde haired man, I guessed in his late thirties and wearing board shorts and a red short sleeved shirt and flip flops bustled through the doors from the house and across to me by the pool.

'You're Sarah right?' I nodded and smiled taking his extended hand and shaking it. 'And you're Matt?'

'That's me! Sethy did tell you I was on my way then? That man is in his own world half the time, but I love him' he trilled. 'I'm Chester's baby-sitter and Sethy's house sitter' he smiled proudly eyeing me up and down, not in a sexual way, more of a clothing check.

'Oh, well it's lovely to meet you' I replied, thinking this guy MUST be gay.

'So can I make you a drink, I've gotta get one – HOW hot is it today?' He didn't wait for a reply but turned on his heel and stepped back through the doors into the kitchen area.

I followed him in and hovered by the counter.

'So where's my little boy Ches?' he asked not looking around but loading a few things from his bags into the cupboards.

'Oh er, he's under the trees over there' I gestured 'Hot for a fur coat today' Matt turned and laughed 'Sure is – I left mine at home, gotta do some work later, didn't want to get anything on it. The cleaning Bill it is SO expensive for Ermine' he chuckled.

I laughed too.

'Do you live near by?' I asked him. I found it hard to place his status. I guessed he wasn't a neighbour or else he would not be working for Seth. Certainly none of the neighbours in Beverly Hills would need to work as someone's help.

'Not far… Up the hill a bit, where the houses are a little smaller and people have regular jobs' he smiled.

'I come down here to stay when Seth goes away. He doesn't like to leave the house empty, plus Chester needs his dinner and some company.

'How long have you known him?' I asked still trying to place the connection, especially as Seth had said Matt was more like a friend.

'Oooh, let me see… a lot of years now. I used to live next door to him, many moons ago. We had apartments on the 5th floor right next door to each other, you know like in 'Friends' only this was grubbier! We used to die of the heat in that old place. Lived in our shorts and t shirts even in the winter…. Jeez'

'Really?' I raised my eyebrows trying to picture Seth in a very different stage of life.

'Yeah - hard to believe it now, huh? Looking at all this… ' He gestured around him and smiled wistfully. I nodded. 'Aw, he deserves it. Always knew he was destined for bigger things' he shrugged. 'He's a really clever guy…and honestly, the best, most decent man I know' he smiled.

'That's quite a reference you give him' I remarked quietly.

'All true honey. All true' he replied.

I smiled at him thoughtfully.

'So what shall we drink? And hey, isn't it time for a bite, I make it 12' he returned to his sing-song voice.

'I got us some juice here so I'm just going to go ahead and take some pineapple, but I have orange and cranberry too….?'

I watched as Matt poured some drinks and then set about arranging some salad, bread and cheese on a big plate before peeling and cutting fruit. I offered to help but he wouldn't hear of it. 'Heck no honey, it's my pleasure' he smiled as he worked away at the counter.

Matt seemed pretty easy to be around. He was quite relaxed. He was also endlessly camp and airy in his approach to things, with a healthy dash of cheeky innuendo in his spiel. I was glad he hadn't asked me too many questions about myself. I was not sure if it was because he felt a sense of professional distance or whether he just trusted Seth to make his own judgements about the people he brought into his life. I got a sense from Matt that he enjoyed taking care of Seth for much the same reasons that Seth's vulnerable side was so apparent and appealing to me.

We sat in the sunshine by the pool together and ate the salad and fruit he prepared. He told me he was in a jazz band, which played gigs in some small bars in Holllywood, he said he played guitar and did backing vocals. I thought then that this had to be the common hook between himself and Seth… the music.

After an hour, Matt excused himself to get on with the jobs he had to do and I went back to my books in the shade.

I talked myself out of nosing about the house any further, partly because I felt embarrassed to in front of Matt and partly because Seth had more or less given me permission anyway so I just sat for a bit, leafing through the pages of his books.

I heard the house phone ring once and then stop. Matt's muffled voice came from within. After about five minutes he stalked across the poolside holding out the phone to me. Sarah babe, it's lover boy for you, he winked and smiled as he handed the phone to me.

'Oh' I exclaimed, straightening myself out, almost as if Seth could see me through the handset.

'Hi' I said

'Hey, what're you up to?' he sounded flirty.

'Same as before, what about you?'

'Thinking about you – same as before'

'Oh yeah' I smiled. 'In what way?'

'I was just wondering what you look like lying by the pool'

'I have clothes on' I replied laughing

'Oh come on, you can't do, that doesn't work with the fantasy' he laughed.

'Ok,… I have got a short skirt on'

'Oh that's better… tell me more' his voice deepened but he was still joking.

'What are you doing calling me again - aren't you busy?' I asked meaning him to tell me what work he was doing.

'I'm coming home in a minute to see you'

'You've finished already?' I asked surprised.

'No, I just want to be home with you in your little skirt' he replied.

'Sounds interesting' I replied, now sounding flirty too. I had to admit I needed little encouragement from him, the thought of him thinking about me was enough to get me interested and now I wanted to see him stride through those doors and across to me where I lay on the steamer chair.

'So uh… I'm thinking I could use a little time by the pool before our friends turn up. You got room for me on that chair?'

'Oh I've got room' we both laughed. He sighed, 'God, I miss being with you'

'You've only just left!' I exclaimed, but I knew exactly how he felt. When he wasn't around me I felt lost and twitchy and could only think of the next time I would see him, but I felt silly even admitting that to myself.

'I'll see you soon'

'I'll be here'

My insides turned over as I thought about him walking through the door. The thought of that first sight of him made me feel nervous and excited. I suddenly decided to hop upstairs and spruce myself up before he got back, so I ran up to the bathroom and quickly showered without washing my hair and put some make up on. I picked out a fresh top and dashed back down to appear casual.

'Hey' Seth jumped out on me as I came down the stairs. 'Shit, you frightened me' I yelped. 'Mmm well you don't scare me' he replied immediately grabbing me and wrapping his arms around me. We enjoyed a long, lustful hello kiss.

'Oh yeah! He breathed. "Now that is what I came home for!' he gasped theatrically as he broke it and laughed. I smiled broadly, feasting my eyes on him. 'You're crazy' I rested my hand on his cheek while I looked at him and he turned his head to kiss it. 'That's what you did to me the first time' I said standing on my toes to touch noses with him. 'Kissed my hand' I smiled 'What a ridiculously gentlemanly first move' he laughed shaking his head. He kissed my lips thoughtfully. 'It was sweet!' I protested. 'I think it was really lovely'.

'Mmm, you smell good' he sighed ignoring my comment, burying his face in my neck. I shivered with pleasure as his lips softly touched my skin. 'You always smell good to me' I purred putting my arms around his neck and pulling him down so I could press my nose against his cheek and breathe him in. Feeling the sexual tension rise, I murmured. 'Seth,.. Matt is still here'. 'Uh-huh' he murmured in response but he was already planting little kisses on my neck.

'Woo-hoo! Looks like somebody needs to cool off' Matt's voice trilled out as he came through the front door into the hall and caught us in our embrace.

We broke apart but Seth kept his arm around me. 'Matty your jealous streak is showing' Seth retorted as Matt stepped forward. 'How are you doing buddy?' Seth extended his other arm and patted Matt on the shoulder. 'Perfect sweetie, I see you're pretty good there' He winked and they both laughed. I smiled shyly whilst observing their easy interaction for the first time.

'I'm just putting away the tools and I'll be outta your hair' he announced lightly.

'Sure, no hurry though. You want to come down later though for some food – bring David?'

'Oh yes, please come' I interjected. I assumed David was Matt's boyfriend. Besides the fact that I had so far enjoyed Matt's company, I really wanted to get to know people who were close to Seth and who knew him much better than I did. I was fascinated to see him interacting with his friends and was also keen for them to see us together now. Feeling aware, that I needed them to accept me too and realise the depth of our connection - bizarre as it may seem. I wanted to be a part of his private world and the sooner I immersed myself in it, the more imbedded I would become. I surprised myself that meeting Matt had made me feel more, not less confident about being accepted in Seth's life. I honestly thought it would be harder. It made me feel so much surer that this would be possible and I looked forward to testing the theory with more of his friends.

'I see you two bonded then' Seth looked from me to Matt.

We both smiled.

'ok so I'll be back later then, my little lovebirds.' Matt made his way out with a cursory wave.

I turned to Seth with a smile on my face feeling rather elated and the sudden spurt of energy gave me an idea. Time to play: I thought. Matt's comment about cooling off definitely got me thinking.

'Wow Seth,' I began, obviously acting something out 'Matt's right, you look like you need to cool down' I said playfully.

'Uh… yes…' he replied slowly, eyeing me suspiciously. I tugged his shirt out of his jeans and started taking it off.

'What are you doing?' he asked slowly beginning to smirk. 'Oh you look a bit warm so …' I took his shirt off while he just stood with a bemused smile watching me. I removed his phone and wallet from his pockets and kicked off my flip-flops. I was only wearing my little beach skirt and vest top. He followed my lead and took off his shoes but as he stood straight again I grabbed his hand hard and yanked him through the doorway starting to make a run for the pool.

'Hey, what the -' he yelled as I dragged him through the house and ran out of the doors straight for the pool, then without letting go of his hand leapt into the air and into the water with a scream, pulling him in after me. We made a massive splash as we hit it and plunged right down under the water enveloped by hundreds of tiny air bubbles. We surfaced gasping and laughing. 'You're fucking nuts' he laughed gasping for breath and grabbing me in his arms, his face was shining with happiness. He looked stunning, his hair drenched and water running down his body, his jeans soaked. I allowed him to wade through the water with me in his arms and he lifted me up to sit on the edge of the pool. 'You are one crazy broad!' he laughed again. 'Look at me!' he exclaimed in reference to being drenched. 'I am - and I'm liking what I see!' I flirted raising an eyebrow at him. He hauled himself up to sit on the edge of the pool beside me so we were sitting with our legs dangling into the water. He reached down and held my hand as we sat catching our breath, the warm late afternoon sun beating down on us, already evaporating moisture from our skin.

'I never know what's coming with you' he sighed looking down into the water as. I turned my head to study his face as he caught his breath. He wasn't smiling, he looked to be more in a daydream than anything. I watched carefully as he swilled the water around with his feet looking down into the vortex he created.

'Come on you' I said quietly so it made him look at me. 'Lets get you out of those wet things' I grinned at him cheekily and then leapt up to my feet, holding out my hands to him to pull him up. 'You beat me to it' he laughed 'I was going to say that to you' He took my hands and got up, his jeans stuck to his legs with the weight of the water. I admired the sight of him again before reaching out to his zipper to take them off, but he caught my hand. 'Not here' He said before leading me off around the side of the house and in through the side door.

We showered and changed into fresh clothes then Seth poured some wine for us whilst I skipped around the pool area and garden barefoot in a little summer dress, laying out tea lights and flowers everywhere and lighting the huge hurricane lamps by the terrace where we would be sitting with our guests. He beamed at me through the windows, enjoying watching what I was doing. He looked gorgeous in a white linen shirt, loose at the neck and sleeves rolled up to his forearms, his dark hair tousled roughly, just as I liked it, also black jeans and bare feet like mine. We both hated shoes and took every chance to kick them off, preferring to walk inside and out without them.

He put on some music so it filled the garden and then wandered out to join me with the two glasses in his hands. By now, the catering had arrived and Seth had given them directions as to what he wanted them to do and where. Three men dressed in chef's whites set about lighting a huge fire pit with a grill and laying out shrimps and steaks to be cooked.

The scented woodchips fuelling the fire, mixed headily with the warm evening air and the perfume of the jasmine flowers woven around the boarders of the patio area. He joined me on the lawn, which swept down in a gentle incline to the edge of the plot and faced the city below. We stood side by side holding our frosted glasses, peacefully silent, as we stared out into the calm dusky evening and lights gradually began to illuminate the Los Angeles skyline.

A couple of hours later our little party had really taken off. Laughter and chatter echoed around the terrace and wonderful smoky food smells wafted through the air. I had met several of Seth's friends by this point. Anna had arrived and Matt had returned, introducing me to David, who was indeed his boyfriend and turned out to be a much quieter, very good natured ogre of a man who towered above us all in height but was such a gentle character, his physicality seemed unthreatening. Matt was a wonderful addition to our party, seeming to be unable to 'clock-off' from his nurturing mode and happily circled the guests re-filling their drinks and generally making sure everyone was happy.

It was so good to see Anna, much as I was absorbed in the time I was spending with Seth, I realised I had missed our chats and on her arrival we had immediately retreated to the kitchen to gossip and catch up.

Seth was having a wonderful time, he looked so happy talking and joking and my introductions to his friends had been less frightening than I had thought. They had greeted me immediately with smiles and interest when Seth, with notable pride and affection, introduced me to each one in turn. Seth stuck close by me at first, knowing I was nervous but soon I was happy for him to go off and talk to others and I began chatting freely amongst them. They were clearly a close bunch, their greetings on seeing each other were full of hugs, jokes and laughter and I certainly got the sense that he was somewhat cosseted and protected by them, the females almost mothered him, which I could understand in some ways, though I couldn't help but see him as untouchable and not needing anyone so wondered why they felt he did need to be shielded.

As I sat talking to Steve, a robust, red haired middle years man and his wife Amy, who was immaculate: slim with long dark hair and clear green eyes. I patted Chester, who was rubbing enthusiastically around my legs purring loudly.

'So Sarah' Amy began, 'You've made a bit of a hit with Chester there' she smiled.

'Yeah, I love cats' I replied with a smile.

'Oh so does he' she rolled her eyes gesturing to Seth – who was across the other side of the pool chatting to another couple Jamie and Katie.

'I hear you guys also have your musical background in common' Steve said cheerily.

'Uh really?' Laughed 'I guess maybe… not in the same sense as Seth, but yes I have a history of playing some instruments and singing.' I replied looking down shyly.

Amy was watching me carefully.

'What about you guys?' I resorted to the encyclopaedia of small talk 'How do you know Seth?'

'Ah, well Steve knows Seth from college' Amy answered '…and I met him when Steve and I got together about 6 years ago… so I knew Seth before things really took off for him, but only just. By the time we got married he was famous and we had guys with cameras trying to sneak into our wedding reception to catch Seth hitting on the bridesmaids or whatever it is they look for in a tabloid story!' she shook her head wearily.

I raised my eyebrows and smiled a small smile. Having had little experience of him in his public persona, I was probably experiencing a bizarre opposite response in comparison to how others must have known him. Seth, to me, was the man I talked to one to one, who I could call up and flirt with, lay down at night with and play fight in the shower with and above all he was my lover. The concept of photographers and fans and fame were what I knew least about in his life. His friends seemed acutely aware of his public life and the trappings it brought.

'Seth said he met you through a friend at work' Amy continued.

'Uh' I stammered, realising this was going to come up but not knowing Seth had already painted a scene, slightly different to the improbable sounding reality. I wondered if he felt embarrassed about how he met me or if it were just that he found it as hard as I did to explain how it is we had thrown caution to the wind and found ourselves together so quickly.

'Yeah, I guess… Anna' I pointed to her across the garden. 'Anna is my friend from school and she works at Masterson Peters, they represent Seth.'

'Oh sure, ok' Steve chipped in seeming to get the connection. 'So you're English right – I got the accent" he grinned, "What're you doing in LA? Are you an actress?' he asked. I was feeling a little flushed and caught Seth's eye hoping for some help in what to say. He saw me but carried on talking for a second before glancing again in my direction to confirm what I was indicating with my look.

'No, no – not an actress' I faltered a little but thankfully they didn't seem to notice that before I felt Seth's arm around my shoulder.

'Hey guys, anybody want a drink' he chipped in. Thank God I thought. I was feeling slightly worried as I didn't know what I should or shouldn't say to them or if I should just be honest. Was I supposed to know how to handle this? I had not thought there was a plan but suddenly felt anxious about speaking out of turn and making Seth feel uncomfortable.

Amy smiled at us as she watched Seth pull me close to him.

'You guys are SO cute together!' She exclaimed. Seth looked at me and grimaced. 'Excuse 'Aunt' Amy, Sarah, she just can't help her clucking around me' He shot her a grin and she tutted but gave him an equally big grin in response. I smiled and looked up to Seth, 'I could use a top up please' I held out my empty glass. I was hoping to get the chance for a word with him to find out what I needed to avoid talking about. I wasn't too concerned at that stage, I just noted to myself that perhaps things weren't as open as they seemed here. Before he could take the glass, Amy leapt up, and grabbed it first 'Come on let's leave the guys to talk, we need to have some girl-time!'. She announced and promptly grabbed me by the hand and headed for the kitchen.

'Uh…OK' Seth said slowly. He checked my face as I disappeared but he realised there was no choice but to leave me to Amy and shrugged weakly.

'So how's the new script coming on man' I heard him say cheerily to Steve.

Amy busied herself opening the fridge and checking out what drinks were available. One of the catering guys was in the utility section washing up pots so she clattered about a little until he decided to make himself scarce.

'What are you drinking Sarah?' She asked, but didn't wait for my reply. 'I think we should hit the Mojitos though – check out this jug'.

'Uh, sure, ok. I'll have one.' I replied tentatively. 'Course you will' she smiled. 'Did Seth make this? He's a fantastic cocktail maker' she laughed. 'Yeah I think he made that earlier' I said slowly.

'Sarah you guys have to come over for dinner one night, if you can get his lordship to finish work in time' She smiled wryly.

'Oh er, he doesn't seem to have a problem at the moment, he's hardly there.' I replied simply.

She gawped at me. 'Are you kidding? This guy works every hour…'

'Well he was home by 4pm today' I replied, but realising I was uncovering something for her.

'Same yesterday' I added.

She looked at me, one eyebrow raised.

'Wow Sarah… he sounded pretty excited about us meeting you and now I know why… this is looking like he's a bit of a changed man!'

'Really?' I asked, shocked at her speedy assessment. However, she did seem rather an exaggerator, in the kindest possible way. She was friendly enough, but clearly excitable and lively. I imagined she was one of the many failed wanna-be actresses who found a rich guy to look after her, as seemed to happen so often in Beverly Hills. I had not yet asked what she did and suddenly felt I must be underestimating her as I just couldn't imagine Seth being friends with anyone fey.

'Sarah, he is mad about you!' She exclaimed. 'He's all puppy-dog eyes around you, that's clear to see, he's like an excited kid when he talks about you and now you're telling me he's not working much and coming home early?' She smiled and handed me my drink.

Anna came in from the garden and greeted us both cheerily.

'I had to escape from Al' she groaned. 'He's going on about Joanna again – we really need to get that guy laid you know. He's completely hopeless without her!' She exclaimed.

'Oh poor thing' Amy sympathised 'You - not Al!' and they both laughed.

'Mojito?' she asked holding up the jug to Anna. 'We're having one… Sethy's special recipe' Anna looked mock-scared and then agreed. 'Ok why not – at least I won't be the only legless broad' she laughed. 'You have been in LA too long lady' Amy exclaimed. 'Broad?!' I laughed too. I have to admit Anna was at least picking up the vernacular, despite resolutely hanging onto her middle class English accent.

'So what are you ladies talking about' Anna asked looking from one of us to the other.

I cringed a little.

'Oh I see – we're talking the only man on Earth are we?!'

'No less' Amy smiled and they exchanged knowing looks.

'WHAT?' I snapped, but still grinning.

'ooh, sensitive!' Anna teased, putting an arm around me.

'I'm not, I just don't know what you're all going on about' I protested

I glanced outside at Seth: he was now entertaining a group of friends, who were laughing heartily. I couldn't even look at him without smiling. He sensed my gaze and gave me a little smile and a wink before turning back to talking. With most men, a wink would not be a convincing way to flirt and would definitely be construed as corny if not comical, but the result of Seth's wink gave me butterflies and I returned a weak little grin before we turned back to our respective conversations.

'See – look at that!' Amy squealed spying our interaction. 'Look at how he is with her!' she said triumphantly.

'I have to admit he's been one happy chappy when I've seen him around' Anna agreed.

'Ok you two: I am too bloody embarrassed now'. I said half joking but quite firmly. 'Can we talk about something else?'

We all moved over to the pool area and sat at a table there. We downed a few more mojitos whilst discussing everything from school to shopping and ended up giggling quite a bit. Anna seemed aware that Amy was keen to find out more about me and was helpful in changing the subject for me if I looked uncomfortable. When Amy disappeared to the bathroom she hissed at me: 'She's a bit keen isn't she?' with wide eyes. 'She's fine but you have to speak to Seth about this – she doesn't know how you met and she's on to you. She acts like his mother half the time so she's just being protective. Plus she loves gossip.'

I sighed, not knowing how to handle it. Did it matter if she knew I wondered? 'Gossip with whom?' I asked suspiciously. 'Look all I'm saying is she knows a lot of people in showbiz. Her hubby is a film scriptwriter and she mixes in all the studio circles and knows just about everyone'. I listened carefully. 'So how come she's one of Seth's best friends?' 'Well she does look out for him and he trusts her but really it's Steve who is his friend. She's just a bit more vocal – she wears the pants in their house – know what I mean? Seth humours her for Steve's sake'.

'Ah. I nodded.

'Listen you' she tapped me on the knee. 'How are you doing, I'm really missing you, you know!' she gave me a little smile.

'I know, I know…I really feel bad for leaving you but, well, I just want to be with Seth' Then sighed. 'How lame did that sound?!'

'Oh don't be silly' she rubbed my arm, 'I'm fine with it. I can see you're ok. I'm keeping my beady eye on my little mate, never fear!'

I smiled at her and then glanced over to Seth again.

'You do really like him don't you?' She asked quietly. I continued to look at him, feeling butterflies in my tummy and wanting to be next to him.

'Yeah' I sighed wistfully. 'So what's up then buttercup?!' she asked more cheerily. 'It's obvious he's mad about you Sarah, everyone can see it.'

'I'm scared Anna." I shrugged. "I've been pushing him away even though it's the last thing I really want to do. I can't seem to help myself from doing it.'

'Why,?! What have you done?' she asked concerned. I sighed 'I just keep questioning this, questioning if we should be together all the time instead of just letting things unfold naturally'

'Have you talked to him about it so he can put your mind at rest?'

'Yes – yes I have and he is being so lovely but I just don't think he really gets it. I don't think he can see how different this is for me. Anna – you've been over here in LA for a while now so it's probably dropped off your radar but this is bloody mad! Look at this house, this place, look at him – he's gorgeous and rich and so fucking full of talent it scares the life out of me. It scares me because… well… look at me.' I gazed at the ground and played with my hands.

'Uh Sarah! I AM looking at you' she replied incredulously. 'You are beautiful and intelligent and creative, you're not rich and famous but who cares? A hundred men would feel the same as he does about you but you just don't see it do you? I suspect that what he sees most in you is the very fact that you aren't from this life. It's probably the bit he's been missing the point about with his choice of woman all along… the reason he's been single until now'

She was a bit drunk and found it easy to pull me in a plant a kiss on my cheek. I gave a sulky smile in response. 'You're biased anyway… but that does make sense I guess. It's still hard not to freak out though." I grimaced at her and then grabbed her hand. "Thank you…I'm so glad you're here, I mean that - I wouldn't know how to handle this if you weren't here to talk to'

'Oh you nutter!' She gave me a playful shove, 'We have to go out soon and have some proper time together, tell me when you're free and we'll make a day of it. In the meantime I spot 'The Oracle' returning so my last thing to say to you is – just enjoy this. I'm serious Sarah: this thing with him is special, I'm certain. Just go for it!'

I smiled and nodded and Amy rejoined us.

'So what've I missed?' she exclaimed.

I left them to it after a short time. I wanted to find out what Seth was doing, and I discovered him alone by the bar area pouring a drink. I put my arms around his waist from behind without saying a word.

'Mmm Dave, your hands are so soft' he murmured jokily rubbing my hand. I swatted his backside and he turned around laughing before we kissed lightly on the lips. The sensation of each other's breath and our ease of mind due to the atmosphere and the alcohol, made us stumble into something deeper. We enjoyed a lustful but brief kiss then broke it quite quickly, knowing we would be watched and neither of us was the type to want to be seen that way. He kissed my cheekbone and whispered in my ear 'Watching you walking around in that little dress… you make me want you so much' I shivered at the sensation of his lips grazing my ear. I felt desire brewing in me and I moaned quietly, wanting him too, as he hovered his mouth near mine, whilst allowing the slightest of touches of our lips to occur.

'I could really do with a distraction right now' he murmured seductively, 'Or I'm just gonna have to have you again'

'Oh God don't' I urged desperately, 'I want you too but you're making it worse!' I pushed him away in a flourish but then took his hand and led him to his piano.

'Play to me' I demanded. 'I love to watch you' I smiled. He grabbed his glass and did as I asked, seating himself at the keys, making room for me to sit beside him on the stool.

'You want requests or should I make it up as I go along?' he asked looking at me sideways. He clicked his knuckles theatrically, waiting for my answer' Uh that's horrible' I exclaimed screwing up my nose, and he laughed.

'I think you should choose what to play' I said finally, not entirely sure of what to ask for.

He began with a show tune, which made me laugh as he sang he complex and hasty lyrics without a hitch. I sat grinning and giggling happily as he entertained me. A couple of woops and shouts of approval came from our guests outside and he nodded and grinned as he continued. He moved seamlessly through several song changes, performing each one perfectly. By now a couple of the others had come inside to stand by the piano and joined in when they knew the words. Everyone was having an amazing time and Matt did a little duet with a very reluctant David, at the request of Seth. It was hilariously funny and the group watched, delighted. David blushed his applause away but obviously loved the attention. It really made me feel happy as I watched him, recognising his response - shyly thanking us for the praise. I noticed how much Seth smiled and enjoyed performing on his own, but also he seemed to get just as much from playing and encouraging others have their moment. I was surprised at how little ego he appeared to possess – not seeming to care if he were the star of the show or not and simply enjoying the experience of making his friends laugh and enjoy themselves.

After we kissed and waved off our last guests at the door and closed it behind us. I turned to Seth. 'Would you play something for me, I've just thought of a request?' The music that evening had inspired me. Seth's playing had inspired me too because I also played piano, but had not told him yet. The feeling had surprised me because I had felt for the first time in many years, really absorbed by the music. I experienced a feeling I recognised from when I played and sang myself. After each song, I immediately thought of the next thing I wanted to hear. I just thought of more songs. There were times when hours went by as I played alone and sang to myself. I had forgotten the feeling it gave me, the emotions it took me through and the addiction it created. Seth's playing had brought that back to the fore.

'Sure, what do you have in mind' he asked, surprised and intrigued.

We sat down again at the piano and I told him the song. 'I love that song, you want me to sing it or just play?' 'Just play' I said quietly.

My heart quickened as my plan began to unfold. I tried not to let my breathing increase, as I knew it would not help me. I took a last minute sip of my drink from my glass, which was placed on the top of the piano and as he completed the introduction, I began to sing. My heart pounded as I started but I was amazingly in control of the sound coming out of me. I saw a flicker of surprise on Seth's face and a small smile after the first few notes but he did not falter, just continued to play. As the song went on, I relaxed and really started to enjoy the moment, carefully controlling my breathing and volume. Seth's face was a picture, and this only spurred me on to really give the tune all I could. I knew he was impressed, he frowned and shook his head in disbelief but continued to play, knowing that I needed to do this, and not wanting to break the moment.

As I finished the vocals and the last notes of the song rang out. He turned to me. I bit my lip and looked down feeling shy now I had no song to hide behind. He took a breath to speak, but nothing came out. He stood up and marched away from me, his hand reaching up to his forehead and rubbing it before turning back. 'Sarah' He said finally, his voice was different to the ways I had heard it before: he sounded half shocked and half emotional. 'You fucking blew my mind!' He turned away, shaking his head, then walked back to me again. 'You can sing like that?' His eyes were alight, with surprise and shock. He sat down again beside me and put his hand on my shoulder to stare at my face. I put my face in my hands, but he pulled them away again. 'No, don't hide from me' he insisted holding them in his grip. 'You are incredible…. You need to do more of that' I looked up very slowly, having avoided his eye contact so far, I was scared to acknowledge what I had done and Seth's reaction to me. Of course I was relieved that I had not messed it up, I was flattered at his reaction, but surprised too: by myself. I don't know how I managed to get the courage to do it in the first place, but I was glad, it was starting to feel good. As I locked eyes with him, a smile crept across my lips and he smiled back at me. 'Seriously, that was amazing.' He said quietly, 'Your voice is…. Well it's beautiful'. He seemed fascinated, but unable to express himself. 'Say something – ' he urged.

I didn't know what to say. I half wished for a second that I could take it all back because his reaction was so dramatic, it scared me a little; I just did not know how to handle it.

'I, er… I'm really flattered' I said finally. 'I knew I could hold a tune but-' I stopped talking.

'Can you sing some more to me?' he asked. 'Whatever you want, I can play it. Tell me a song. He urged. 'Uh, well, ok…' I cleared my throat. 'How about "Some day"?' I suggested. 'Oh uh, Louisa Vandelas right?' 'Yup' 'Sure – let me try it out and you can just join in when I get it ok?' I nodded.

He played and I sang, the more I sang the more he smiled. He was beaming from ear to ear. 'My God' he exclaimed as we finished another song. 'You just get better… I can't believe this, how the hell have you kept this to yourself for so long?' I smiled a little, still rather invigorated by stunning him. 'I don't normally let people hear me' I replied simply and shrugged. 'You never sing for anyone?' 'No…' 'But Why? Your voice is too beautiful to be kept to yourself' I got up from the piano now and paced across the room to the doors which faced the garden. I stood looking out into the darkness of the garden staring at the few flickering candles still alight from where I had placed them earlier. 'I just… never really believed I was any good.' I sighed. He didn't reply, but I could sense his response was bristling with excitement and some frustration.

'How come you suddenly wanted to show me?' He asked - calmer now; his voice more gentle.

I turned in the doorway so he could see my face. He was still sitting at the piano, looking across the room at me.

'I just started to feel like suddenly I could… you inspired me the way you play and how you love it so much. I started to love the music again tonight with everyone singing and you playing…. I guess I remembered how it made me feel watching you …. It made me feel strong…And I just wanted to connect with you… and for you to know that I could do it too.. I wanted to prove it to you.'

He smiled, 'I'm glad you did'. He held out a hand to me now, gesturing for me to come to him. I responded and went to sit beside him again at the piano. He put his arm around me and pulled me close. 'I'm proud of you, if you don't mind me saying that?' he laughed a little. 'I don't' I smiled pressing my cheek against his neck. 'You know it's hard for me not to get really excited about this: my favourite person showing me she is so talented' he looked down at me.

'Oh come on' I shook my head and raised an eyebrow. 'You must be being a little bit kind to me' He shook his head, frowning 'Not a chance - I'm not into bullshitting, especially when it comes to music, Sarah – it's my business, I don't mess around with this sort of thing. I really think you have something special' I shoved him playfully 'Oh I bet you say that to all the girls!' and laughed. He smiled, but shook his head again. 'You amaze me you know that? You really have no idea…' he trailed off in his thoughts as he looked at me. Finally he reached out and lifted my chin with his finger and planted the gentlest of kisses on my lips.

'Come on, lets relax now, it's late.' he got up and closed the doors to the garden, then taking my hand, led me over to the sofas. 'Want to watch a movie? ' He turned down the lights and we sat in the darkness our feet up and a blanket covering us. We watched Hitchcock's 'North by Northwest', which we found out was a favourite for both of us. I lay beside him, with my head resting against his chest and his arm around me. I drifted off to sleep towards the end of the film: the warmth of us, the blanket and the sound of his heart beating, was wonderfully soothing. I woke when he touched my hair as the credits were rolling.

'Sorry, I always fall asleep when I have a blanket over me and a warm chest to lie on – just like a baby!' I sighed. He laughed, 'Fantastic, I know how to keep you quiet if I want to' he stroked my arm softly.

'Thank you for today' I said suddenly, realising what a great feeling I had inside me lying there with him. He smiled 'What are you thanking me for?' he asked quietly. 'I just feel so ... well… strong and..' 'Happy?' he finished for me. 'Yes. Happy' I grinned at him. 'Can't think of any place I'd rather be either' He smiled. 'Being with you really makes me happy' I said sitting up a little bit so I was face to face with him. 'That's good because it's the same for me' he replied taking hold of my hand. 'Honestly, I don't think I have ever felt happier in my life…. Which is why I wanted to ask you…. if you would consider staying here with me full time' he said calmly. I was taken aback. I was not expecting him to say that, but my heart immediately began to race and so did my thoughts. My instinct was to feel excited. Of course I wanted to, I adored him, I couldn't stand to be away from him, so it seemed like the natural response. In that moment, high on the excitement of that day, I agreed right away and we hugged and kissed each other excitedly, grinning broadly.