Rose yawned widely. They probably should have gone straight to sleep but elation and relief, as well as the combined excitement of having everyone there together, had combined to create an atmosphere that wasn't about to allow dreamtime. The Doctor, however, noticed her yawn immediately. No real surprise, as he hadn't left her side all morning, staying within touching distance at all times.
"Okay, well, we will be more than happy to explain what happened later, but not right now. I'm a bit done in, Rose is asleep on her feet, and it looks like the little ones are already down for the count." The Doctor gestured to the livingroom where - after having helped clean up a bit to make the house habitable for the next few nights - Bastian and Ellie had collapsed in exhausted little mounds on the floor, the girl using her brother's leg for a pillow. "So I think we should all have a bit of a sleep and talk more when we're all rested." For once, absolutely no one argued with him. He stood, pulling Rose to her feet.
"Come along, then, off to bed with you."
"Doctor, where's the Tardis?" He blinked, off guard.
"Down the beach a little bit. Why?" She yawned again.
"Could we...I mean, is my room still..." She didn't seem to know how to finish, and he felt his hearts warm. He smiled gently at her, a smile full of emotion, and she smiled back.
"Of course it is, Rose."
"Then, could we sleep there tonight? I want..." She paused, gazing into the eyes of the love of her life. "I want to go home."
With a smile that could have powered all of London he guided her out the door and down to the Tardis, who was more than happy to have her people back. She sighed in contentment as they lay down on Rose's bed together, and as soon as they were asleep she sent them soothing thoughts and happiness. Everything would be okay now. And thus the Tardis welcomed them home.
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Author's note: Thank you all so much - the reviews and kind comments have made me so very glad I posted this story. :-D Now, before you think it's all done...there's an epilogue on its way. Will be posting the first part of it later on today. So, once more, thanks and keep reading!