A/N: My goodness you lot are firmly on Naomi's side here aren't you? Obviously my intention was to mix things up to create some angst so please don't hate me for the first part of this chapter, all I will say is that I do plan my stories so (usually!) everything happens for a reason and hopefully by the end of this chapter I'll have explained why various people acted in the way they did, even if it seemed out of character. I'm quite enjoying writing people in a slightly diffferent way in this story which is why I decided that Jenna, although she isn't a main character, should be supportive. I know it might not be to everyone's taste but Naomily will be creating enough drama of their own without having a homophobic Mum to contend with as well.
This update is quite a long one, with a few twists which may or may not come as a surprise so I hope you like it.
A million thanks for reading and especially for the reviews, like I have said tons of times it really makes me happy to read your comments and writing is a lot easier when you know the people reading it are enjoying it too.
The next morning Effy opened her eyes and groaned quietly, the combination of pills, spliff and alcohol had certainly caught up with her this morning in the form of a stonking hangover. She rubbed her face and yawned. It was then she realised she wasn't alone. She turned her head, ignoring the shooting pains it caused, and noticed the red hair splayed out on the pillow next to her.
She quickly lifted the duvet and glanced down. They were both naked under the quilt. She let it drop back down and sniffed her hand, there was an unmistakable scent which could only have come from her fingers being inside a very specific part of a woman's body. Shit, she thought as she gingerly made her way to the edge of the bed. She climbed out and quickly put on some underwear and pulled a t-shirt over her head. As quietly as she could she tiptoed from the room. As she made her way downstairs she passed her bedroom, Naomi was still asleep, the other side of her bed was empty.
She is going to fucking kill me for this, Effy cursed, why oh why did I do something so stupid?
She made her way into the kitchen and boiled the kettle, while she was waiting she went outside for a fag and took some pain killers. She nervously tapped her foot against the wall as the words shit, fuck and bollocks kept echoing around her brain. When she got back inside she saw Cook was up and about.
"Alright Eff, did you sleep ok?" He asked.
The question made Effy panic and she stood staring at him, opening and closing her mouth like a goldfish.
Cook laughed, "Jesus Eff, it was a simple question, no need to freak out."
Effy stared at him, "Cook, you have to help me. I've done something really, really bad."
Cook poured the tea, "Like what? I bet I've done worse."
Effy shook her head "I doubt it. If you think of the worst thing you've ever done and multiply it by a million you might get close."
Cook stared at her, "Come on Eff, whatever it is can't be that bad.
Effy exhaled, "I'll put money on the fact you've never slept with your best mate's girlfriend, well sort of girlfriend."
Cook started to laugh until he saw the look on Effy's face, "Fucking hell, you're not joking. You slept with Emily? Naomi is going to tear you limb from limb for this, actually that will be her being nice. What the fuck did you go and do that for?"
Effy slumped against the counter, "I really don't know, I've never even thought about Emily like that before, she's with Naomi's so definitely off limits. Cook you know it's totally unlike me, I don't know why I did it, I'd never hurt Naomi like that."
Cook held his hands up, "Whoa Eff, slow down. Ok so we've established it was out of character but it still happened. So how come it did?"
Effy sat down and sighed, "We both got totally trashed and she was saying how tough things were with Naomi sometimes. So we started joking about how she should be more like me and just screw people and not bother with relationships anymore. Then we kissed and I suppose one thing led to another. I'm not sure we actually had sex, but when I woke up we were both naked."
Cook shook his head, "So you fucked Naomi's girl but you can't even remember it? That's got to make totally fucking up your friendship worth it."
"Would you prefer me to be able to give Naomi a blow by blow account?" Effy snapped but then she paused.
The painkillers had started to kick in and she was beginning to have flashbacks. She closed her eyes, she didn't have total recall but what she could remember was enough to tell her she'd done the deed with Emily and not just once either.
She definitely remembered kissing the redhead and thinking at the time it was wrong but her lips looked so inviting.
She vaguely remembered going upstairs and stumbling into her parents' room before falling onto the bed and pulling the redhead on top of her.
She remembers there being more kissing as clothes were hastily discarded and hands wandered freely over newly naked flesh.
At one point she was sure she checked that what they were doing was ok. The redhead's response was a definite yes. She had looked at her and simply said, "I want to fuck you and I know you want me back."
It was all the encouragement she needed and she quickly pushed her fingers inside the twin, moaning as she felt how hot and wet she was. She can remember exactly how the redhead felt as she thrust back against her hand and begged Effy to fuck her harder. She recalls how the redhead's tits bounced up and down every time she pumped her fingers inside her and how her moans of pleasure got louder as the redhead moved closer and closer to the edge. Eventually she couldn't control herself any more and Effy remembers the bead of sweat on her forehead as she whispered her name over and over as she came.
"Oh God Effy,...oh yes,...Effy,...Effy,...Effy..."
After that she can recollect the feel of the redhead's tongue on her body, as it explored the naked flesh her hands had only just finished discovering. She recalls her nipples growing harder and harder as the redhead swirled the tip of her tongue around them while rubbing her thigh between her legs.
She remembers the twin slowly moving down her body, licking, sucking and nipping as she went. She remembers the redhead teasing her all the way down, telling her exactly what she was going to do with her tongue when she reached her destination. She recalls how the redhead was true to her word and made sure her tongue did exactly what she'd promised. Effy remembers pleading with her to go faster as the twin's tongue flicked rhythmically across her clit and her fingers were thrust deep inside her. Effy couldn't help her hips bucking wildly as the tongue was pressed hard against her and the fingers curled inside her as she came.
Effy opened her eyes and found Cook staring at her, "I'm guessing from your expression that you can remember some, if not all, of last night now?"
Effy nodded and looked away ashamed, "The sex was incredible. I came at least three times."
Cook smiled, "Well Naoms is always saying how good in bed she is. But was it so incredible that you are prepared to be killed by your best friend?"
Effy shook her head, "It's not funny. Oh fucking hell Cook, what am I going to do?"
He winked at her, "If I was you I'd be gettin' my passport ready and settin' off to the airport as we speak. Borneo is probably far enough away."
Effy looked at him, "We both know wherever I ran to would never be far enough away after what I've done."
Cook poured them both another cup of tea, "I guess you'll just have to stay here and face the music then."
Naomi woke with a jolt, she didn't know what had caused her to wake so suddenly but her heart was pounding. She supposed she had been having some sort of nightmare. She glanced at her watch and saw it was already late. She looked over to the other side of the bed. It was empty. She remembered the things she'd said to Emily last night and groaned. She can still picture the look of panic on the redhead's face when Naomi told her she loved her and she clearly remembers the look of sadness as she had called her a coward.
Why can't things ever run smoothly for us? she thought as she sat up and took the two painkillers lying on the bedside table next to her.
After a couple of minutes she got out of bed, narrowly missing putting her foot into the bucket that was beside it. Cautiously she peered inside and was relieved to see it was clean. Her throat was sore and she had a vague recollection of being sick again, but maybe she was wrong about that. She was desperate for the loo but as she left the room she could hear someone in the shower. She'd have to try the one downstairs as the en-suite in Effy's parents' room was off limits. God she needed to brush her teeth as well, her mouth felt like someone had sandpapered it and then poured in sawdust.
She made her way downstairs and was relieved to find the cloakroom empty. She used the toilet and washed her hands and face. She looked in the mirror at her reflection, she looked like shit. That'll teach me to take drugs and down a bottle of tequila, she thought as she desperately tried to sort her hair out. She must have gone to sleep with it wet because this morning it looked like she'd pushed her fingers into a plug socket. She made her way to the kitchen, where she found Cook and Effy whispering together.
"Jesus Christ, please don't ever give me drugs or let me drink that much again. And if either of you takes the piss out of my hair I'll kill you." Naomi announced loudly as she sat down.
The blonde noticed Effy jump as she spoke, "Hey, did you sleep ok? Shall I get you a cup of tea?"
Naomi studied her friend who seemed nervous, "I think I slept ok but I had a bit of a run in with Emily and don't remember much after that. Tea would be great."
Effy quickly got up and busied herself pouring the drink. Cook was making a big show of being interested in the sport in the paper. Neither of them would look her in the eye. Effy placed the cup in front of her before scurrying away again.
Naomi sipped her tea in silence, before sighing, "Oh God, why is tea so good? I felt like absolute shit when I woke up but a couple of painkillers and a cup of tea later I feel like a new woman."
Both Cook and Effy muttered something in agreement, still not looking directly at the blonde. She stared at them for a few minutes before she couldn't stand it anymore.
"Look is one of you going to tell me what's going on?" Naomi asked.
She watched as Effy stared wildly at Cook, "What do you mean?"
Naomi raised her eyebrow, "Well all you've been doing since I sat down is giving each other meaningful looks and trying to avoid me."
Cook reached over and took the brunette's hand, "You're going to have to come clean babe."
Naomi looked at them, "Please tell me you two didn't sleep together last night. I don't think I could stand it if you ran off together."
For the first time that morning Effy finally looked at her, she had tears in her eyes, "I didn't sleep with Cook."
Naomi sighed, "Thank Christ for that, you know exactly what I think about screwing your mate's exes."
Effy nodded, "I know, it's forbidden."
"Damn right, there are plenty of people in the world to shag without having to resort to someone your friend has been shagging. It'd be too weird." Naomi said with a nod of her head.
Cook gave Effy's hand a squeeze, "Go on then."
Effy lifted her head and looked directly at the blonde, "Naomi, there's something I need to tell you. Something that I've done which is way worse than sleeping with Cook."
Naomi narrowed her eyes and her heart began to beat faster, "Go on then, I'm all ears."
Effy faltered, "Just hear me out ok? I promise I didn't mean for it to happen and I will never, ever do anything like this again no matter how drunk I am."
Naomi swallowed as she felt the bile rise in her throat, "I'm not going to like this am I?"
The brunette shook her head, "Naoms, last night after you'd gone to bed. I...I...slept with Emily."
Naomi started to laugh, "Sorry Eff, can you say that again because I could swear you said you slept with Emily."
Effy nodded, "That is what I said."
Naomi squeezed her eyes tightly shut, this couldn't be happening, "But you know how I feel about her, you wouldn't betray me like that, I'm your best friend."
"I know you are and I really didn't mean to do it, please you have to believe me." Effy said finally standing in front of the blonde.
Naomi opened her eyes but she almost stared through the brunette girl in front of her, "It's not true, this is all a big joke. Tell me you're lying and this is a wind up. If this was your idea Cook, it's not funny."
Effy gulped but shook her head, "I'm sorry Naomi, but it's not a joke. I woke up in my parents' bed with Emily naked next to me. I can remember some parts of the night, but not all of it. But I do remember us having sex."
Naomi covered her ears, "NO! I do not want the details Elisabeth. It's bad enough that you've done this to me without pouring salt into the wounds as well."
Effy flinched, Naomi only ever used her full name when she was really, really angry. She looked at Cook who simply shrugged. Finally Naomi got up from the table.
"Will one of you give me a fag please?" She asked and they both handed her a cigarette. Silently she went outside, closing the door gently as she went.
Effy sat with her head in her hands, "Oh my God Cook, I've never seen her so angry, not that I blame her. Did you see how white her knuckles went?"
Cook nodded, "I'm guessing we're about two minutes away from the biggest explosion you've ever seen. She was like this the first time I cheated on her, seemingly calm at first and then she lost control and I thought she was going to put me in the bloody hospital."
"Thanks Cook, that makes me feel a hell of a lot better. I don't need reminding that the reason Naomi doesn't lose her temper properly very often is that she's scared she won't stop until she's killed someone." Effy said with a frightened groan.
Cook shrugged, "Hey, I'm not the one who slept with her girlfriend."
It was this moment that Emily decided to enter the kitchen. Her hair was wet and she had changed her clothes, "Sorry Eff, I hope you don't mind I borrowed these."
The brunette was unable to face her but shook her head anyway. Cook leapt up and offered to make the redhead a cup of tea, she smiled gratefully at him before walking over to Effy.
"Effy can we talk about last night please?" Emily said tentatively just as Naomi re-entered the kitchen.
The blonde took in the scene that greeted her and sneered, "Yeah Elisabeth, why don't you and Emily have a cosy chat about last night? In fact why don't you do it here so we can all listen?"
"So she's told you then?" Emily said sadly to Naomi.
"Yes Emily, Elisabeth's been very honest with me, brutally some might say. Were you going to tell me?" Naomi asked.
Emily nodded, "Of course I was going to tell you. What kind of person do you take me for?"
Naomi laughed bitterly, "I think we all know the answer to that. Whore pretty much covers it."
Emily gasped, "Hey don't speak to me like that. You kissed Sophia first if you remember, so I think you've got the whole slapper vibe worked out."
Naomi crossed the room so her face was inches from the redhead, "Yes Emily I did kiss Sophia first but I didn't fucking screw her did I?"
Emily pushed her backwards and looked puzzled, "What's that got to do with anything? Like I said you did it first so as far as I'm concerned we're even."
"EVEN? We are so far off EVEN it is untrue. I had a quick snog on a dance floor with a random girl. How the fuck does that make us EVEN?" Naomi screamed at her.
Emily backed away, "Naomi calm down please, you're really scaring me now."
Naomi sneered at her, "If you think this is scary then you have no idea what I'm capable of."
Suddenly Cook moved between them, "Naomi, NO. You don't want to do this, believe me."
Naomi blinked and focused on him. She looked at Emily who had started to shake and realised that she had practically been pinning the redhead against the wall. Her hands were curled into tight fists. She collapsed into Cook and began to sob.
"How could they do this to me Cook?" she said as she wept.
"Shhhh sweetheart, I don't know." He replied soothingly.
Naomi continued to cry against Cook's chest and all the time he was rubbing her back and muttering comforting noises. Both Emily and Effy shifted uncomfortably but knew they had no choice to wait until the blonde was ready to talk again.
Eventually Naomi pulled away and looked at Effy with red rimmed eyes, "You knew I was in love with her but you still did it anyway. Elisabeth Stonem, can't resist anything with a pulse but especially if her best friend might be interested too, makes it all the more satisfying eh Eff?"
"Naoms I'm so, so sorry, I didn't mean to, neither of us did." Effy said also starting to cry.
Emily walked up to the blonde, "Naomi, I really am sorry. I didn't mean for you to get this upset."
Naomi bit her lip, "I'd expect this from Effy, she couldn't give a fuck when she's pissed, but not you, I thought you were different. I thought it was bad you couldn't get away fast enough when I told you how I feel about you but I didn't expect you to go running straight into the arms of my best friend."
Emily looked embarrassed, "Look Naomi it happened once and it'll never happen again, I promise. We were both really drunk and got caught up in the moment."
"The irony in all this of course is that your reasoning for not wanting to be with me was that I'd end up hurting you. So what did you decide Emily, attack was the best form of defence. You'd get your retaliation in first and put me off for good?" Naomi asked with tears still in her eyes.
"I didn't mean to hurt you." Emily said sadly.
"How did you think I'd feel when I found out you screwed Effy?" Naomi asked shaking her head.
Emily stared at her, "You mean when you found out I kissed Effy."
"No Emily, you fucked my best friend while I was asleep in the next room." Naomi stated.
Emily stopped, "Er, no I didn't. I kissed your best friend in the kitchen."
"Oh come on Emily, just admit it, you screwed Effy." Naomi spat at her.
"I won't bloody admit that Naomi. Because IT'S NOT TRUE. After I left you I came down to get you a bucket in case you were sick again. Effy and I had a few drinks and we're chatting and that's when I kissed her. Stupidly I tried not to think about you but it was impossible so I broke away and apologised. Effy was horrified too but I said I would have to tell you what I'd done as I felt so bad about it."
Naomi turned to Effy who had a look of slow realisation dawning on her face and something else that looked like relief.
The blonde turned back to Emily, "Effy has already told me you slept together, how can you lie to my face?"
Emily noticed the question didn't have quite the same venom or conviction as before, "I'm not lying, how could you think we would do that to you? Effy's your best friend for Christ sake. Don't you know me at all?"
Naomi shrugged, "I'm not sure that I do anymore."
Emily took a deep breath and stared steadily at her, "Naomi, please, you have to believe me. I swear on my life, and anything else you want me to swear on, I didn't sleep with Effy."
Naomi looked at Emily, "So where did you sleep?"
Emily sensed the blonde was beginning to calm down, "I spent the whole night with you, don't you remember? I was worried in case you were sick again, with good reason it turned out. I came back upstairs with the bucket, got into bed with you and told you I was sorry for walking off and that we could talk today. Jesus Naoms, didn't you notice there was a bucket beside the bed this morning that wasn't there when you went to sleep?"
Naomi looked defiant, "Well yeah of course I noticed it but you could have put it there anytime."
"Oh don't be so ridiculous. So what do you think happened? I put the bucket in your room and then snuck off to have my wicked way with Effy, popping back between shags to check you were ok? Don't you remember me holding your hair back as you were sick? Or rubbing your back for you?" Emily asked.
Naomi shook her head, but it was slightly unconvincing "So why was the bucket clean this morning?"
Emily sighed, "Because you gave me enough warning this time for me to get you to the bathroom. It seemed preferable to me getting covered in vomit or waking up next to a bucket full of sick."
Naomi thought hard at the redhead's words, Emily seemed to be telling the truth and Effy was backing the redhead up. If Naomi was being honest some hazy memories had started to come back to her and were now becoming clearer. She hadn't fabricated being sick again, but she had forgotten that the redhead was with her at the time. She could now recall Emily hurrying her towards the bathroom and holding her forehead as she wretched into the toilet. The redhead had stroked her back to make sure she was finally done and helped her brush her teeth before leading her back to bed. Once there she had softly stroked her hair until she fell back to sleep, all the time whispering that she was going to take care of her.
Emily could sense the mood change in the blonde, "So now do you believe me? Jesus, I think I might remember sleeping with someone don't you? And Effy certainly wouldn't forget, believe me."
Naomi nodded and gave her a slight smile, "I can vouch for the fact that sex with you is a pretty unforgettable event. I'm sorry for accusing you like that, it's just, well Effy was so convinced you'd slept together and you were gone in the morning."
Emily smiled, "I needed a shower, we both had alcohol sweats and I was a bit icky as although I got you to the toilet you're still not the neatest puker in the world."
Naomi turned to Effy, "Sorry, I know deep down you wouldn't do that to me."
"While I'm grateful for the apology I'm not sure I deserve it. I definitely shagged someone and I was convinced it was Emily, so I must have been thinking about her on some level." She paused and gasped as a memory came back to her, "Oh God..."
Naomi looked at her, "What?"
Effy went white, "Nothing, it really doesn't matter. Let's just say I'm really glad it wasn't Emily and leave it there."
Suddenly Emily's hand flew to her mouth, "Oh Jesus Eff, you're shitting me?"
Naomi finally caught up and began to laugh at the brunette, "No fucking way."
Only Cook still seemed confused, "Will someone tell me what is going on? Emily can't be in two places at once..."
"No, but I can be in one of them. I think we need to talk Effy, don't you?" Katie said from the doorway, where she started to go bright red as the others stared at her with varying degrees of shock on their faces.
Effy quickly nodded and followed Katie into the hall where they paused.
"Do you want to talk in the lounge or go upstairs?" Katie asked clearly embarrassed.
Effy couldn't look her in the eye and just mumbled, "I don't mind."
Katie shrugged, "Upstairs is probably more private, you know if you won't find it too embarrassing."
Effy shook her head, "I think the need for privacy probably beats any discomfort we might have right now."
Katie followed her up the stairs and into her parents' room. Once there they both stood staring at the unmade bed. Katie closed her eyes and sighed as she remembered their exertions from the previous night. She glanced at the brunette who was swallowing hard.
"Sorry, this is too weird, can we go into my room please?" Effy asked much to Katie's relief.
They walked into Effy's room and she shut the door before motioning for Katie to sit down on the bed, the brunette took the chair. They sat in silence for several minutes, clearly both lost in their thoughts. Eventually Katie sighed.
"We're not doing much talking are we?" she asked quietly.
Effy shook her head, "To be honest, I'm not sure what to say. I don't know what I'm more shocked by, the fact I thought I slept with Emily or the fact it was actually you."
Katie snorted, "Believe me Eff, no one is as mortified as me we slept together. I've never, ever done anything like this before and I've had a lot of drunken one night stands."
Finally Effy looked up, "Look I'm sorry to ask and I don't mean to be hurtful but I don't really remember how it all unfolded. I recall us having a drink downstairs and you going to bed. I remember kissing Emily in the kitchen, and after she reminded me I remember us breaking apart because we couldn't do that to Naomi. But everything is kind of patchy after that. What happened?"
Katie glanced at her, "I came upstairs as I felt tired, I think I'd had more to drink than you at that point and I was really feeling the effects. So I collapsed onto the spare bed and fell asleep. A while later something must have woken me up but I was glad as I really needed a wee. I went to use the bathroom but Naomi was being sick. I knew the en-suite in your Mum and Dad's room was off limits but the thought of going downstairs made me exhausted so I went into the room and used the loo in there. I was just about to leave when you came through the door. You looked at me and said..."
Effy interrupted as a memory came back to her, "I said 'You've changed your mind'"
Katie nodded, "I didn't know you'd kissed Emily so I wasn't sure what you meant so I mumbled something back and then you closed the door and kissed me. At first I was really surprised but I was drunk and it didn't feel that strange. We kissed a bit more and then you pulled me over towards the bed. You told me I was beautiful before you pulled me on top of you."
"Look I'm not trying to wig you out and I mean this in the friendliest, non sexual way, but you are you know? Beautiful I mean." Effy said gently.
Katie blushed, "No one's ever told me that before."
"Then you've been sleeping with idiots. Katie I know this is awkward because I only remember bits but I don't lie just to get people into bed. If I said, it I meant it." Effy stated.
Katie smiled shyly, "Thank you. So anyway we were lying on the bed and you began to undress me and I started to do the same to you. I wasn't even thinking about you being, you know a girl. It was just me and my mate Effy. So before long we were naked and then you suddenly stopped."
Effy nodded, "That's when I asked you if you were ok with this, I remember doing that."
Katie nodded, "Yeah, quite the perfect lady. I guess you thought I was Emily so you wanted to make sure she was ok about Naomi, but at the time I thought it was because you knew I'd always been so freaked out about sleeping with women and you wanted to make sure I wasn't doing anything I didn't want to."
Effy reddened, "I'm sorry."
"It's ok, it was nice to be asked for a change even if it wasn't for the reason I thought. After that you shrugged and said 'it's almost the same', which again I only understand properly now I know about Emily." Katie replied.
Effy frowned, "You weren't freaking out at all though. You told me you wanted to fuck me, which is always a good answer by the way, and you knew I wanted you back."
Katie looked embarrassed, "Don't worry, it surprised me too. But we were lying there naked and I was kissing you which wasn't as strange as I thought it would be..."
"From what I recollect, you're a very good kisser." Effy interjected.
Katie smiled, "So are you. I looked at you and I was a bit taken aback by how much I wanted to screw you, I could tell you wanted it too, so that's why I said what I did. The rest as they say is history. You looked at me at one point and it was almost as if you were only noticing me for the first time and you said my name in surprise, I guess that's when you realised it was me and not Em."
Effy exhaled, "Are you alright? I know shagging a girl wouldn't have been your first choice of things to do at a party but we were drunk and these things happen."
Katie shrugged her shoulders, "I'm ok I suppose. I always thought it would be disgusting, but it wasn't. I think what I'm trying to say is that if I had to sleep with any girl I'm glad it was you because it didn't feel too odd because we're good friends. We are still friends right?"
"Of course we're still friends." Effy said indignantly.
Katie could feel the tears prickling in her eyes, "Good, because I'd hate it if things got fucked up just because we'd had a drunken shag at a party. I've never really had a proper friend before, girls tend not to like me much, so there's only ever been Emily."
Effy walked over to the bed and sat down as she took Katie's hands in hers, "Hey. Look Katie, I know this is odd for us both and things might be a bit awkward for a while but don't ever think I don't want to be your friend because of it. I know we didn't get off to the greatest start but now your friendship is really important to me."
Katie sighed, "Your friendship is important to me too, in fact you're important to me. So are we going to hang out today? I'll understand if you need space or something, you're probably sick of the sight of me."
Effy leaned over and gently kissed Katie's cheek, "Well I did get to see rather more of you than I bargained for yesterday, but maybe we could just chill out as normal today. You know watch a film, get a pizza that sort of thing."
Katie smiled at her, "Normal it is. At least there was one good thing to come out of this."
Effy racked her brains but drew a blank, "Which is?"
"Well I was thinking about changing my hair colour, I think this is an irrefutable piece of evidence to support doing that. I don't want people mistaking me for Emily anymore." Katie said.
"Did Katie Fitch really just use the word 'irrefutable'," Effy said with a smile.
"Hey you, I know big words, I just chose not to use them. I leave that to the geeks." Katie admonished the brunette.
They smiled at each other before becoming silent once again. Eventually Katie made her way to the door. Just as she was about to open it she turned around with a sad expression.
"Thanks Eff, you know for being so cool with this. I'm sorry it turned out to be me you slept with and not Emily." Katie said with a half smile.
Effy stared as the twin turned away ready to go. The brunette closed her eyes and sighed, fuck it, here goes nothing.
"I wanted it to be you." Effy said quietly.
Katie stopped and turned around, "What?"
Effy swallowed, "I didn't want to sleep with Emily, I wanted to sleep with you."
Katie sat back on the bed and stared at her, "I don't understand, you kissed Emily in the kitchen."
Effy nodded, "I know I did, but it's only because she looks like you. This morning I was trying to work out why I would do something like that to Naomi and I suddenly realised it was because I wished it was you. That's why I couldn't help it."
Katie paused lost in thought for a moment, "So when you said 'it's almost the same', you didn't mean sleeping with me was almost as good as being with Emily..."
"I meant it the other way round, that sleeping with Emily was almost like sleeping with you. I was thinking about you the whole time which is why I was so surprised when I realised it was you I was in bed with and not Emily." Effy confirmed.
Katie stared at the brunette for some time until Effy grew uncomfortable, "Please Katie don't freak out. I'm really sorry but I think I've liked you for ages."
"So why didn't you say anything before?" Katie asked.
Effy snorted, "Oh come on Katie, why do you think? Do the phrases 'I'm not a muff muncher', 'I'm 100% straight', 'Eww, dykes they're so disgusting' mean anything to you? You don't do girls remember, it repulses you."
Katie went red, "God I sound horrible, really homophobic."
Effy shrugged, "So I was hardly likely to confess to liking you was I? I thought it would drive you away and you'd never speak to me again."
"Hey, I thought we'd just established how important you are to me? We could have talked about it." Katie said indignantly.
"No we couldn't. The only reason we're discussing it now is because you got drunk enough to sleep with me and it wasn't as horrific as you imagined. Katie, I get it ok, you're straight. Jesus, I've had to watch you prove that lots of times with random blokes." Effy said slightly bitterly.
Katie looked at her, "Is that why you were off with me when I was dancing with that guy at the party yesterday?"
Effy nodded, "I pretended I was annoyed about you not keeping an eye on Naomi and Emily, but really I was jealous as hell."
Katie sighed, "Oh Eff, I'm sorry..."
"It doesn't matter, I'll get over it. Oh God, I shouldn't have said anything. We'd probably be ok if it was just the drunken fuck, passed it off as a mistake, but now you're going to freak out and I've ruined everything." Effy ranted.
The brunette was shocked when she felt Katie's mouth covering her own. They kissed for a while until Katie pulled away, "You're very cute when you ramble."
Effy had a confused expression on her face, "You just kissed me."
Katie smiled, "You noticed that huh?"
"But you're supposed to have run from the room screaming by now." Effy said.
Katie tilted her head, "Why would I do that?"
Effy raised her hands, "You know, the whole my friend has just told me she fancies me how fast can I get out of here thing."
Katie shrugged, "I suppose some people might do that, but not the ones who fancy their friend back."
Effy gasped, "What are you trying to say?"
Katie rolled her eyes and kissed the brunette again, "Effy Stonem you are very dense. I'm glad you told me you like me because I realised last night that I like you too."
Effy smiled shyly, "Really?"
Katie nodded, "I like you. A lot. Eff when you kissed me last night it didn't freak me out at all. I mean I was surprised but only because I didn't expect you to do it, not because it was gross. Instead of it feeling wrong or disgusting it felt amazing and like it was the most natural thing in the world. I've already told you I wanted to sleep with you but I couldn't believe how turned on I was. I mean I came like three times or something stupid, do you know how much of a struggle it is to come once with most people the first time you sleep together. So I figured maybe I'm not as straight as I thought because having sex with you was incredible, even if we were totally off our faces."
They stared at each other until a smile crept across Effy's face.
Katie started to smile too. "What?"
Effy raised her eyebrow, "I was just thinking that maybe we should see if the sex is as amazing as we remember when we're sober."
Katie grinned before pulling her down onto the bed, "What like now maybe?"
Effy moved on top of the twin and kissed her, "I told you we'd get along fine didn't I Katiekins?"
Katie gasped as she felt Effy's thigh start to rub between her legs, "Oh God, I just wish I'd listened sooner."
Cook came into the kitchen wearing only a towel and a huge grin from ear to ear, "I think this might be the start of a beautiful relationship."
Emily looked at him, "Oh come on Cook, this is Katie we're talking about. I can just about get my head around the fact that she might have slept with Effy when she was off her nut, but certainly not when she's sober."
Cook shrugged, "I went to take a shower and I heard them talking when I went in to the bathroom, they were definitely doing something else when I left."
Naomi rolled her eyes, "Cook, I know being the only man in a house full of horny women is almost your number one fantasy, but why don't you just calm down a bit. Sure Effy's shagged women, but never the morning after. She doesn't do repeat performances remember?"
Cook sat down, "Look ladies I'm only reporting back what I heard."
"Well maybe your ears are playing tricks on you because you're desperate for it to be true. You must have misheard." Emily stated as Naomi nodded in agreement.
Cook folded his arms, "Fair enough, but you tell me how the phrases 'Oh Christ Effy, fuck me' and 'Please Katie, faster' can be misinterpreted."
Emily looked at Naomi before smiling, "It seems unlikely but maybe they really like each other."
Naomi shrugged, "At least now we can get our own back and give them the third degree when they finally resurface, let's see how they like being interrogated."
They sat in silence for a while until Naomi looked at Cook, "Didn't you say you were meeting Freds at the pub?"
"Yeah, but not until later..." Cook began but he stopped as he saw the meaningful look from the blonde, "Oh right, I suppose I should get ready and go. You two can talk then or whatever."
He rose from his seat and kissed Naomi on the cheek, "I'll call you later ok?"
Naomi nodded and was surprised as Cook went over to Emily and kissed her on the cheek too.
"Remember red, world turned upside down." He said to Emily.
The redhead nodded, "I'll remember that, thanks Cook."
"What was that all about? Since when did you and Cook get along?" Naomi asked as he left the room.
Emily shrugged, "We had a bit of a chat yesterday, he's not such a bad bloke really."
Naomi looked at her in surprise, "I've obviously woken up in a parallel universe this morning."
The blonde began to busy herself around the kitchen, "Can I get you another cup of tea, or maybe something to eat? A bacon sandwich or something, any sandwich or a toastie..."
She jumped as the redhead touched her arm, "Naomi, stop avoiding me. Come and sit down, I think it's time we talked don't you?"
Naomi nodded and allowed Emily to lead her to the chair, she sighed as the redhead sat next to her but she was still afraid to look at Emily.
"We didn't do anything last night did we?" the blonde asked.
Emily snorted, "No we didn't. Like I said to Effy, you'd remember if we'd slept together."
"Sorry, it's just my memory is a bit hazy." Naomi said staring out of the window.
Emily smiled, "To be honest, the whole throwing up on me was a pretty big turn off."
The blonde sighed, "Yeah, sorry about that too. Like I said I'll buy you a new top."
They sat in silence until the redhead finally spoke.
"Naomi, about last night. Did you mean what you said?" Emily began tentatively.
The blonde started to redden as once again she remembered telling Emily she loved her and how startled the redhead had been. It was a stupid thing to confess, even if it was true. Now things were going to be uncomfortable. She really hoped Emily would let her down gently, it was already humiliating enough.
Naomi took a deep breath as she stared at her hands, "Yes I meant it, all of it. I'm sorry."
"Are you?" Emily asked.
Naomi nodded, "Yeah, I didn't want to freak you out but I couldn't help myself. It was like there was this massive secret bubbling away inside me and it had to escape. I really didn't mean to make things awkward. But you needn't worry it's ok that you don't feel the same. Well it's not ok, it hurts like hell, but what I mean is I understand and I realise that you might not want to spend time with me anymore."
Emily lifted Naomi's chin so the blonde was finally making eye contact, the blue eyes were sorrowful and full of fear.
"Idiot." Emily said gently.
A hurt look passed over Naomi's face, "There's no need to be so mean Emily, I feel bad enough as it is..."
Her sentence was cut short as Emily kissed her.
"I love you too." The redhead said as she pulled away.
Naomi looked surprised, "You do?"
Emily nodded, "I've been hopelessly in love with you since Cyprus."
Finally the blonde smiled, "Really? All that time?"
Emily smiled, "Yes Naomi, all that time."
Naomi frowned, "So why didn't you say anything?"
"Why didn't you?" Emily countered.
"I don't know, I didn't really admit it to myself until last night but I suppose deep down I knew a while ago. I guess I was afraid you didn't feel the same way." Naomi answered.
Emily shrugged, "Which I why I didn't say anything."
"Ok I get that. So why did you walk away last night?" Naomi asked.
The redhead shifted in her seat, "I sorry about that but I freaked out a bit. I was scared in case you didn't mean it, that you were only saying it because of the drugs. For all I knew you could have been totally loved up and telling everyone that."
"No it was just you, oh and Effy I suppose." A scowl crossed Naomi's face.
Emily looked directly at the blonde, "Naomi, I really am very, very sorry I kissed Effy. I was so mixed up, you'd kissed Sophia and I was angry at you for that. Then I thought we were going to kiss and nothing happened until we were in the kitchen, but then you threw up on me. To cap it all off you finally say the three words I've been longing to hear but you're off your face on drugs. Everything felt so complicated and Effy and I were joking about how much easier it was to keep things casual, so I kissed her. If it's any consolation I didn't feel anything when it happened, well nothing apart from guilt that it wasn't you."
Naomi shrugged, "It's like my experiment. I told Cook I didn't feel anything when I kissed Sophia and he found it hilarious I couldn't understand why so he kissed me. It felt strange and totally wrong, it was then I finally admitted I was in love with you and that kissing or doing anything with anyone else would always feel wrong. I know I kind of went overboard a bit by kissing Effy and Katie as well but I genuinely wanted to check."
Emily looked sceptical, "Hmmm, it's funny this checking involved you kissing a lot of people."
Naomi looked bashful, "It was only when I kissed you that I felt anything, honestly."
"Is that what you meant when you said you were ruined?" Emily asked.
Naomi nodded, "Yeah, Cook told me in the garden that I was a one woman girl from now on, it looks like he was right. So does this mean we can be together now?"
Emily looked away and sighed, "I don't know."
Naomi looked shocked, "Why not? I thought it's what you wanted, what we both wanted."
Emily turned back to her, "Naomi, what you said last night about no one wanting you, it's not true. I do want you, in fact I want you so much it scares me sometimes."
"Why does it scare you?" Naomi asked gently.
Emily looked at her tenderly, "It scares me because I've never felt like this about anyone before and I think you feel the same way. We could really hurt each other if things went wrong. I think you're the one person who could ruin my life."
Naomi gave the redhead a half smile, "I feel the same way and I suppose that is quite scary. But isn't it worse if we don't even try? Emily we've been tip toeing around this for months, unwilling to admit how we both feel, playing stupid games to hurt each other or make each other feel jealous and screwing each other but pretending it doesn't mean anything. Won't it be better if we're honest and really try to make this work? I love you so much and the thought of not being with you scares me far more than the thought of you hurting me."
Emily frowned, "Doesn't it feel like we're doing this the wrong way round, like we're going backwards?"
Naomi looked confused, "What do you mean?"
Emily sighed, "We started with this amazingly intense relationship in Cyprus, which don't get me wrong was incredible, but it was contained. Neither of us thought we'd see each other again so we were far freer than we've ever been here. Then we were really close friends, we spent virtually all our time together, had sleepovers, and we had a mind blowing fuck in the pub toilets. Then we fell out and became awkward friends who hardly knew each other at all..."
"We still managed a mind blowing fuck though, we'll at least it was for me." Naomi said with a smile.
Emily laughed, "I think you'll find I got far more pleasure from that than you did, and yes it was totally hot, but don't interrupt."
Naomi saluted her, "Sorry ma'am."
"Where was I? Right, so by this stage, you fucking me senseless in a classroom aside, we're almost strangers who barely even know each other and then we started acting like primary school children who spend their time in the playground pulling each other's hair because they're too shy to admit they like each other." Emily finished.
Naomi blinked a few times, "Ok so that is a fairly good description of how things have developed between us, but what's your point?"
Emily paused, "I suppose what I'm trying to say is don't you think we should put the brakes on and start moving forward again? Get to know each other properly and see how our relationship develops."
Naomi smiled, "What like normal people? You mean we should admit we like one another, spend some time together, have a first kiss, progress through all of the other bases before we finally decide to sleep together when the time feels right. Then we can fall in love and live happily ever after."
Emily smiled back, "I suppose that's what I'm suggesting in a nutshell yes. I know it's a bit unconventional because we're already in love but it's got to be worth a try if it means we'll stop being so manipulative and have a real shot at going the distance."
Naomi though for a minute, "I suppose it's worth a try if it means we're less likely to hurt each other. So what does it mean in practice?"
"I guess it means that we spend some time together, talk and get to know each other properly. But there can't be any kissing, hugging, sleepovers and definitely no shagging." Emily started.
"What never?" Naomi spluttered.
Emily shook her head, "No dumbass, of course at some point we can start doing all of those things again, especially the sex, I have a feeling that's going to be very important indeed. We just shouldn't rush into anything, we need to wait until we think we're at that the right stage of our relationship."
Naomi pouted, "What if I think we're already at the screwing stage, because believe me it's taking all my strength to not to fuck you right now."
Emily raised her eyebrow, "Flattering, and tempting, as that is the answer is no Naomi. If we're going to do this we need to do it properly, which is going to take a massive amount of will power."
"And bloody cold showers by the sounds of it." Naomi said sulkily.
Emily laughed, "I can vouch for the fact that they're quite effective, considering the amount I've had over the past month."
Suddenly Naomi smiled, "What about masturbation? Can I think about you when I'm getting myself off?"
Emily rolled her eyes, "I can't stop you thinking about me when you do that, just make sure I'm not in the same room though, there's no way I could stop myself joining in."
"God this is going to be hard." Naomi said with a sigh.
"We don't have to do it like this if you don't think we'll manage." Emily said sadly.
Naomi stroked her cheek, "We'll manage, I think you're right it'll mean much more if we do this properly. I love you too much and you're too important to me not to give it a go."
Emily smiled, "Thank you, this really means a lot to me."
Naomi paused, "What about other people? Do we tell Katie and Effy for instance?"
Emily shrugged, "I'm not sure, there'll be a lot less pressure on us if we keep it to ourselves."
The redhead was startled as Naomi thrust out her hand, "So Ms Fitch, I suggest we seal the deal with a firm handshake."
Emily tutted and pulled the blonde into a hug, "Don't be so daft, come here."
"I thought hugging was off limits?" Naomi said in mock outrage.
"After this it's off limits." Emily corrected.
They pulled slightly apart and stood with their arms wrapped around each other, staring into each other's eyes.
"I love you." Emily stated.
Naomi smiled, "I love you too."
The redhead closed her eyes as the blonde moved towards her and was surprised when Naomi pulled away. Emily opened her eyes again to find Naomi walking towards the door.
"Where are you going?" the redhead asked in a disappointed tone.
The blonde turned, "Into the lounge, I thought we could watch a film, I'll even sit on a separate sofa if you like."
Emily sighed, "But I thought..."
Naomi smiled, "Tut tut Emily, it's far too soon to be kissing. Where's that famous will power of yours?"
Emily was annoyed with herself that she'd given in so easily, "Tease."
"You know you love it really." Naomi said as she blew her a kiss before exiting the room.
Emily groaned, Oh God, this is going to take a lot of cold showers, she thought before following the blonde into the lounge.
As the film credits rolled Naomi stole another quick glance at Emily, they had both been doing it throughout the whole film. I bet neither of us could actually explain what that movie was about, she thought with a sigh as she looked at Emily's bare thigh which was tantalisingly close to her own leg. She looked up to find Emily staring at her.
"Sorry, this is just so difficult because we're half naked but I'll try harder to stop looking." The blonde muttered.
Emily nodded, "Maybe we should get dressed but I'm not sure our clothes are dry yet."
They were both relieved by the distraction when Effy and Katie came into the room, holding hands and giggling.
"Wow, I like the hair Katie. It suits you." Naomi said.
Katie smiled, "We found the colour in Effy's bathroom. What do you think Em?"
Emily studied her twin who now had black hair, "It looks nice and at least no one will mix us up now."
Effy blushed, "Yeah, that's what we figured too. So what have you guys been up to?"
Naomi shrugged, "We had a good talk and we've just finished watching a film."
"Oh we we're coming down to do that, which one did you see?" Katie asked.
Emily stared at Naomi who shrugged, "I'm not really sure, it was something about an army camp or a war I think. I wasn't paying much attention."
Effy laughed, "Too busy doing other things I suppose."
Naomi frowned, "No it was nothing like that thank you very much. Just because you've been having a shag fest don't assume everyone else is at it all the time too."
Effy held her hands up, "Alright, keep your hair on. Jeez Naomi it's obvious you haven't been doing anything because you're far too bloody grumpy."
Naomi's eyes narrowed, "Listen Effy, you might want to be a bit more careful what you say. I'm not sure I've totally forgiven you yet."
Effy swallowed, "Sorry."
Emily looked at her twin who was sat awkwardly on the sofa, "You just couldn't resist it could you Katie?"
Katie's head snapped up and took in the stony expression, "Resist what?"
"You couldn't let me have one thing that was just mine could you? You had to try being a lesbian too didn't you?" Emily said seriously as they all stared at her.
"Come on Em, that's a bit unfair." Naomi said.
Emily raised her eyebrow, "I was talking to my increasingly identical twin."
Katie looked embarrassed, "Ems, I'm really sorry, I didn't do it deliberately, I just really like Effy."
Emily burst out laughing, "That was funny, you should have seen your faces."
Katie stared at her, "So you don't mind really?"
Emily shook her head, "Of course I don't mind, if you like each other you should go for it. I can't pretend I'm not totally shocked though."
"Believe me you're not the only one." Katie smiled at Effy shyly before turning back to her twin, "Bitch."
"Muff muncher." Emily shot back with a smile.
Naomi got up, "Right who's for a Bloody Mary?"
Emily stared at her, "Naomi! Seriously how can you even think about drinking alcohol?"
Naomi shrugged, "Hair of the dog works every time Em. So do you want one?"
Emily paused, "Alright, can't have you drinking alone can I?"
Effy got up, "I'll come with you, do you want one babe?"
Katie nodded before pulling her down for a kiss, "Don't be too long though."
Emily rolled her eyes at Naomi before making a gagging noise, "Oh God, this is nauseating. Please don't leave me alone with Katie for too long either, I'm not sure I can stand the soppiness."
"Oh shut up Emily, I've had to put up with you mooning over Naomi for months." Katie snapped at her.
"Why don't you shut up." Emily replied.
Katie glared at her, "You started it."
Naomi and Effy quickly left them alone and went into the kitchen. Naomi went to the cupboard and grabbed the vodka while Effy found some tomato juice.
"Oh God they're like a pair of five year olds sometimes." Naomi said as she poured four generous measures into glasses.
Effy smiled as she got the rest of the ingredients from the cupboard, "I know, what have I let myself in for?"
Naomi raised her eyebrow, "I see, so this is more than a casual shag then?"
Effy turned red and shrugged, "I'm not sure but I think it might be."
Naomi paused as she put some ice in the drinks, "Wow, so you genuinely like Katie eh?"
Effy bit her lip and nodded, "Yeah, I really do. I realised last night that I've liked her for a while now but I was too scared to admit it."
"In case she rejected you?" Naomi asked gently.
"Come on Naoms, this is Katie 'I'm the world's straightest woman' Fitch, of course I thought she'd reject me." Effy said with a sigh.
Naomi smiled, "Apparently she's not as straight as she thinks. I'm assuming the sex was good?"
Effy leaned towards her, "Fucking unbelievable, I mean it Naomi, what she can't do with her tongue isn't worth knowing."
Naomi laughed, "It's obviously a Fitch family trait."
Effy looked embarrassed, "Naomi, I really am sorry for kissing Emily. I wouldn't hurt you for the world, you know that."
Naomi nodded, "I know, I'm still a bit cross with you both but I'll get over it. I never stay mad long."
"No you just hold a grudge for 10 years." Effy snorted.
Naomi pointed at her, "Oy, you're supposed to be grovelling. What I don't understand is why you convinced yourself you'd slept with Emily?"
Effy frowned, "I've been pondering that too. I wasn't really thinking clearly I suppose. I figured that me sleeping with Emily was less scary than if it had been Katie."
Now Naomi snorted, "Really? The idea of losing my friendship because I'd never be able to forgive you if you did that was less scary than it being Katie?"
Effy shrugged, "I said I didn't think it through. Of course not being your friend would be devastating but nothing scares me more on earth than the idea I might actually like someone and want to have a relationship."
Naomi smiled, "So how are you feeling now?"
The brunette gulped, "Really, really, arse clenchingly petrified. What if I fuck it up?"
"Come on it's early days, you can't start off thinking like that, it'll just become a self fulfilling prophecy otherwise. Relax a bit and enjoy it." Naomi said.
Effy stared at her, "Have we swapped bodies?"
Naomi laughed, "No, I'm just trying to prove that I do listen when you dish out all of your advice."
"Right let's change the subject and make you uncomfortable. What's happening with you and Emily?" Effy enquired.
Naomi smiled, "I'm not supposed to say but I have to tell someone. We're going to take it slowly and see how it goes but we both really want it to work out. We're, well, we're in love."
Effy's eyes widened, "Fuck Naoms, this is huge."
Naomi nodded, "I know, I still can't quite believe it either. Come on we'd better take these drinks though, they'll go warm if we leave it too long."
They entered the lounge and Naomi handed a drink to Emily with a smile and sat down. She looked up to find Katie grinning at her, "What?"
Katie took a sip of her drink grimacing slightly, "So it's true love then?"
Naomi looked at Emily, "What happened to keeping it to ourselves?"
The redhead shrugged, "Sorry, but I was so excited I had to tell someone. Anyway, I bet you told Effy, you were in the kitchen for ages."
Naomi blushed, "I might have mentioned it."
"There you go then, we're both terrible at keeping secrets." Emily said with a smile.
Naomi looked over to Effy and Katie, "This goes no further than us four. We don't want any pressure from either of you. We're starting off as friends and seeing what happens but we'll do this at our own pace, in private. As far as everyone else is concerned we're mates and nothing more ok?"
They nodded before Effy said, "So do you fancy getting a pizza and watching some films?"
Naomi looked at Emily, "I don't mind, it's up to you really."
Emily nodded, "Sounds good to me."
"And will you be staying over again tonight or is that against the go slow rules?" Effy asked with a smirk.
"I don't really think we should..." Naomi started but she was interrupted by Emily.
"We might as well stay, it'll be late and our clothes still need to dry." The redhead stated.
Naomi stared at her incredulously, "What happened to no sleepovers?"
Emily smiled innocently at her, "I thought we should seal our deal properly so I wasn't intending to get much sleep. We can start our agreement formally on Monday, unless you have an objection?"
Naomi stared at Emily before leaning over to kiss her, "Monday it is then, although it'll be doubly hard to keep my hands off you after tonight."
Emily slowly licked her lips, "Naomi, when you find out what I've got planned you're going to find it a hundred times harder to resist me. I figured I might as well give you something special to remember while we go though our barren patch."
Naomi groaned, "Oh God, why do I have a feeling a cold shower isn't going to help me much? You are a wicked woman Emily Fitch."
Emily smiled before pulling the blonde into another kiss, "I know, it's one of the reasons you love me."
"One of the many." Naomi managed between kisses as she shivered with anticipation at the night ahead.