A/N: This is quite a long chapter and it might ping about a bit, so it'd be great if you stick with it. Hopefully it's a good mixture of fluff and some more serious stuff. Finally we find out about operation Foster, so hope it's not too much of a let down.

Please let me know what you think as the reviews so far have been brilliant to get.

Naomi lay in bed on a Sunday morning, it was two months since 'Big Fight Weekend' as they now jokingly referred to it and she was thinking how much had changed since then. She thought back to the morning after they'd made up.

Unusually both she and Emily had woken before the alarm. They lay there facing each other just smiling and enjoying the peace. Emily had yawned, "God I'm knackered, I'm going to be a waste of space at work today, but it was totally worth it."

"Yeah, well I had a lot of making up to do. I am truly sorry." The blonde had replied.

Emily pressed her finger to Naomi's lips, "Shhh, I know you are sorry and I've already forgiven you so don't keep beating yourself up about it." She grew serious.

"What is it?" the blonde asked.

Emily smiled at her, "In all of the angst and fighting I forgot to say thank you."

Naomi looked confused, "What for?"

The redhead stroked her cheek, "for being so brave and selfless. I know I was mad about you going behind my back, but I still think what you did and what you were prepared to do for me was amazing. So thank you for being prepared to fight for me even if it meant your own career was on the line."

"It was a no brainer, I love you so much I'd do anything for you. I'll just be sure to tell you next time." Naomi responded.

Emily shook her head, "I'm hoping there won't be a next time, that we'll talk about it way before it gets to the stage where either of us has to make a sacrifice to sort things out."

Naomi sighed, "Are we destined to go through this cycle the whole time? I fuck up, we argue, we make up and then I spend the whole time apologising."

Emily smiled, "Stop being so dramatic, we don't go through that cycle the whole time. Occasionally we fight, it's perfectly normal, and admittedly the things we fight over are pretty big, but I think that just goes to show how well we get on most of the time."

Naomi kissed her, "You really are a glass half full person aren't you? I'm going to call you Pollyanna from now on."

The redhead looked at her strangely, "I don't get it."

"Oh come on don't tell me you've never seen that film? It's always being shown on a Sunday over Christmas or something. Hayley Mills? Relentlessly cheery even in the face of adversity?" Naomi questioned, "God Em, you have led a sheltered life."

Emily raised her eyebrow, "Not that sheltered, otherwise the making up wouldn't be as amazing as it was."

Naomi smiled, "Hmm, I'm grateful that your sheltered life definitely doesn't extend to your very dirty mind."

"Hey, it wasn't my idea to tie you up, just remember that." The redhead laughed as she leant in to kiss her.

Naomi blushed, "Everything once yeah?"

The redhead leaned in and whispered, "We'll see if it was a one off, I quite like making you beg."

The blonde let out a low moan, but leapt up as she saw the time, "Fuck, I need to get up and get ready. Do I have to have a cold shower or will you be joining me?"

"Ask me nicely." Emily replied.

Naomi narrowed her eyes, "Emily Fitch, stop being such a tease and get your arse in that bathroom now."

The redhead got out of bed and gave her a salute, "Yes Major Campbell."

Naomi was brought back to the present by Emily sighing heavily. The redhead was sat at the laptop working through her e-mails and Naomi marvelled at the role reversal. Normally it would be her who worked on a Sunday, but since Emily had joined corporate she'd been giving her a run for her money. Naomi by contrast had decided that she wasn't going to work at the weekend anymore, partly because of what had happened with Foster and partly because that was time for her and Emily, although apparently the redhead hadn't read the script.

"What's up baby?" she asked

Emily pouted and turned to her, "I'm blue. I don't want to go to stupid work tomorrow, I miss it, just think this time yesterday we were in the sunshine."

Naomi looked at her watch, "I know, we'd just got out of the pool and were having lunch."

Emily smiled, "And then we had some food."

The blonde sighed, "It was lovely wasn't it? Our own villa and pool, no prying eyes, no timetables, just you and me in the Spanish sun. I'm going to miss our midnight naked swims."

"I'm going to miss making love on the sun terrace. Oh fuck it I miss it all and I'm wasting the little bit of the weekend that's left reading stupid work emails." She shut the laptop down and came over to the bed, "I feel like crying."

Naomi laughed, "Thanks very much. So being back here with me is that much of a letdown is it?"

Emily snuggled into her side, "You know that's not what I mean, I just want to sulk a bit."

"Do it on work time, you do know that you get a day's sulking for every week you've been away, it's the law." The blonde stated.

Emily looked up, "Really, so I can spend all day tomorrow in a grumpy mood and no one at work can complain?"

Naomi shook her head, "They can't say a thing."

The redhead cheered up, "So best not waste any more of our precious time feeling down today then. What do you fancy doing for the rest of the day?" As if on cue Emily's stomach gave an enormous rumble.

"Well food might be a good idea at some point," Naomi paused, "Actually Em, I wanted to talk to you about something I've been mulling over since we got back."

Emily sat up and looked at her with concern, "Naoms, what is it?"

Naomi took a deep breath, "I'm thinking about looking for another job and handing in my notice." She held her hand up before Emily could interrupt, "Just hear me out please. I was standing at the airport waiting for the luggage and I felt a real sense of dread. I dismissed it as holiday blues like you, but it hit me suddenly that I really wasn't looking forward to going back to work. I used to love my job, I couldn't wait to get back and catch up. But I realised that wasn't true anymore, and I know some of that is because there are other things in my life now, but a large part of it is simply because I hate working at Short & Milner these days."

Emily sighed, "No Naomi, you hate working for that prick Foster, it's not the same. If he was gone would you feel the same?"

Naomi shook her head, "Probably not, but the reality is that he hasn't gone and I still have to work for him. For fuck's sake Em, he actually asked Colin to deputise for him the last time he was away on business. I don't want to work somewhere where Colin is seen as a preferable option to me just because I'm being punished for not wanting to sleep with the boss. Do you know how humiliating that was? It was like Mark all over again."

The redhead kissed her, "I know baby, but you can't let him force you out of a job you love and are fantastic at, it's not fair."

"Don't you think I know that? But my confidence is really suffering and I'm afraid if I don't leave soon then my career is going to be ruined anyway. The not for profit sector is small, people talk, if I get a reputation as someone who couldn't hack it at Short & Milner, I won't get work anywhere else." The blonde sighed.

Suddenly they were interrupted by Katie bursting in through the door, Naomi was naked under the duvet and she quickly pulled up the covers, "For fuck's sake Katie, have you ever heard of knocking?"

"Shut up Campbell, I've given you until one to do whatever it is you were doing. Which is disgusting by the way because you've had a whole week to yourselves. Now I want to see my sister and hear all about your holiday." She went over and hugged Emily. "I missed you Emsie."

Emily laughed as she returned the hug, "I suppose I missed you a bit too. Give us five minutes to get dressed and we'll come downstairs ok?"

Katie pouted, "Alright five minutes max, otherwise I'm coming back in and dragging you out regardless of what you're up to." She left them alone.

"We need to discuss your job further ok? But you know we won't get any peace if we're not downstairs soon." Emily said.

Naomi smiled, "I know, and the thought of Katie bursting in again and dragging me downstairs in the buff is quite frightening. So we'll talk about the job later."

They quickly dressed and Emily turned to Naomi just as they were going through the door, she leaned up and kissed her, "Thank you."

"What for?" asked Naomi.

Emily smiled, "For telling me straight away, and not festering on it."

Naomi grinned, "Maybe I learnt my lesson after what happened last time. So this is what a grown up relationship feels like, it's not bad."

Emily squinted at her, "Don't push it Campbell."

They walked into the kitchen to find not just Effy and Katie, but Freddie and Cook too. Effy's prediction about Katie and Cook had become a reality. Everyone else knew they were seeing each other regularly but they both refused to acknowledge it, pretending instead they were just fuck buddies. Katie had refused point blank to confirm it but Emily was pretty sure her twin wasn't seeing anyone else and Naomi was convinced the same was true for Cook.

Naomi walked up to Effy and gave her a hug, "Hey, you were out when we got back last night, did you miss us?"

Effy shrugged, "A bit, but Freds stayed over a lot and Katie and Cook practically moved in, separately of course."

Naomi gave Emily a pointed look, "See I told you we were right to change the sheets last night even if we were knackered."

Emily laughed, "Fine, one nil to you."

Cook looked over at Naomi, "Alright blondie, don't suppose I'll get lucky if I ask to see your white bits?"

Katie slapped him, "Oy, watch it you." She blushed as Emily gave her a meaningful look, "What? I'm just trying to stop him hitting on your girlfriend."

Emily raised her eyebrow, "Of course you are. Anyway Cook, I can assure you that there aren't a lot of white bits to see." She winked at him.

He spluttered, "You mean? Oh God, why wasn't I invited?"

Naomi kissed Emily very deliberately, "We're hardly going to pay all that money to get a private villa, where we can wander around naked and fuck wherever and whenever we want and then invite you are we?" She knew they were just being cruel.

Cook shook his head, "Stop it, this is like torture."

All the while Freds had been quiet, "You two are really nasty, you know that? Getting the poor boy all worked up, he's probably going to explode now."

Cook looked at him, "Are you telling me the thought of red and blondie at it isn't swimming round your head too?"

"Sorry mate, I'm a one woman man." He smiled at Effy.

Emily watched her twin's reaction to this exchange, Katie looked upset. She motioned to Cook and he turned around, "Sorry babe, old habits die hard I suppose. I don't mean anything by it."

Katie shrugged, "What do I care, it's none of my business who you shag, pretend or otherwise."

Cook tipped her chin up so she was looking at him, "I'm not shagging anyone else, or even thinking about it ok?"

Katie smiled, "Really? Me neither."

Cook winked at her, "Why would I go out for a hamburger when I can have a steak at home?"

Emily whispered to Naomi, "I suppose for Cook and Katie that's about as close as they're going to get to admitting they're seeing each other."

Effy suddenly clapped her hands together making everyone jump, "Right people, lovely as this is I am now bored and very hungry. Naomily we can catch up on your holiday later, although apart from the fact you went to Spain, it was sunny and you spent most of the time screwing each other's brains out I'm not sure what else you can add that I'm interested in. Cook, Katie, you're now officially going out how sweet. Freds you are amazing and I love you, but you know that. So let's go eat."

Everyone looked stunned by the speech until Emily burst out laughing and raised her hand, "I second the brunette's motion, I could eat a scabby horse. Pub?"

Effy sighed, "Finally a decision, I've always liked you Emily Fitch, you're my kind of girl."

Naomi narrowed her eyes, "Hands off Stonem, she's all mine."

Emily took her hand, "Don't worry babe, I'm with Freds, I'm a one woman kind of girl too."

Effy sat in the pub after they'd eaten lunch and looked at Emily, who in turn was looking at Naomi at the bar. The redhead had a concerned look on her face. That's odd, Effy thought, they seemed blissfully happy earlier. She leaned over and said "Is everything ok Em? You look worried."

Emily sighed, "I might as well tell you as Naomi will soon enough. She's talking about handing in her notice at Short & Milner, all because she can't stand working for Foster anymore. It's so unfair Eff, he's the one who's in the wrong and yet she gets forced out of a job she loves."

Effy sat there in silence but her fist curled into a ball, her mind was racing, this meant they didn't have much time. They'd have to put their plan into action soon.

Naomi came back with the drinks, "What's up Eff, you've got that psycho killer look again." She turned to Emily, "She always used to get it at Uni, but I haven't seen it in a while."

Effy forced herself to relax, "Emily tells me you're thinking about getting another job?"

"Emily, what did you go and say that for. I thought the whole point was that we discussed it first before saying anything?" the blonde chastised her.

Emily rolled her eyes, "Oh come on, you would have told her yourself soon anyway."

Naomi scowled, "That's not the point, it wasn't your news to tell. If this had been the other way round we'd probably be having a row about how immature I was right now."

"Ok, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said anything. But I don't want you to do anything hasty or be forced into making a poor decision." The redhead replied.

Effy cut across their bickering, "So it's true then? What a shock, Naomi Campbell is running away again."

They both turned to her, "That's a bit harsh. I just hate it there at the moment. It makes me feel sick when I think about it." Naomi stated.

The brunette shook her head, "Sorry, I didn't mean what I said. It just makes me so angry that he's forcing you into this position and making you dread work. Would you feel differently if he wasn't there?"

Naomi nodded, "Of course I would, but that's not going to happen."

Effy studied her, "maybe not straight away but it could do eventually. In the meantime what would make it easier for you at work?"

Naomi looked puzzled, "What do you mean?"

Effy sighed, "I mean what could happen so it might be a bit more bearable, do you want him to say sorry? Publicly declare his love for you?"

Naomi laughed, "There's not much chance of either of those things happening. I mean an apology for the way he's treated me would be ok, but unless hell is planning on freezing over anytime soon I doubt it will be forthcoming. I suppose it might be more bearable if he sent out a public message by restoring me as his deputy again and gave me back some of the projects he's reassigned. Although I know it would be a load of crap, at least other people might think I'm back in my rightful place again and I'd get back some of the respect I've lost."

Effy nodded, "I can see how that might help. Did I hear you say you were popping over to your Mum's later?"

Naomi was surprised at the sudden change in the conversation, "Err, yeah I said we'd pop in and give her the present we bought."

Katie's ears pricked up at the word present, "Oh goody did we all get souvenirs?"

Emily nodded, "Yes Katie we bought you a gift, but it's not much so don't get your hopes up. It's back at the flat."

Katie was about to reply when Effy got up, "Who's for a top up, Katie help me with the drinks please."

Katie shrugged, "But we've only just got these." She stopped as she saw the brunette roll her eyes, "Oh right best line them up as it can get quite busy."

They made their way over to the bar and Emily looked at Naomi, "Do those two get weirder or is it just that we've been away?"

Naomi stared at her, "You know my theory."

Emily playfully punched her, "Will you stop with the lesbian fling idea. I'm going to start to think you quite like imagining them together if you're not careful."

"Does it make you jealous?" the blonde asked smiling.

Emily looked at her hands in her lap, "the idea of you thinking about anyone other than me in that way makes me feel ill." She said quietly.

Naomi said gently, "Emily, look at me." The redhead looked up "There has only ever been you, and there only ever will be you, till the day I die. No one else even gets close, you're the love of my life, my soul mate."

Emily smiled, "I thought you didn't believe in all that crap."

Naomi reached over and stroked her cheek, "I didn't, until I met you."

Effy and Katie stood at the bar watching the tender exchange take place, "we need to get Panda and JJ down here. Naomi's talking about leaving Short & Milner so we need to act fast, this week if possible." Effy stated.

Katie got her phone out and sent a text

You need to get down to Uncle Keith's now. We need to put operation Foster in place this week."

They walked over to Cook and Freddie who were shooting some pool. "Make this your last game, JJ and Panda are on their way and we've got a lot to discuss." Effy commanded.

"We need to get rid of those two," Katie said motioning her head towards Emily and Naomi.

Effy nodded, "They're planning to go to Gina's, so we just need to make them leave sooner rather than later."

Emily smiled at Katie as her twin walked over to the table, "hey, where'd the drinks go?"

Katie shrugged, "I thought you two were off to see Naomi's Mum so I didn't bother getting you any."

"Charming, we we're planning to have one more drink before we went so I suppose I'll go to the bar myself." Naomi responded.

Katie nodded over to Freds, Cook and Effy, "We're going to play a few games of pool, it's kind of a foursome thing, so you might as well leave now."

Emily stared at her, "Katie, this morning you practically burst in on my naked girlfriend because you were so eager to see me and hear about the holiday, now you seem to be trying to get rid of me."

"What's going on Katie?" asked Naomi. "Why are you being strange?"

Katie shook her head, "I'm not. I just thought you were leaving. I'll come over to the flat later to hear more about the holiday."

Emily looked at Naomi, "Right it appears we're going round to your Mum's now then."

They got up and said their goodbyes to the others. As they were leaving they met Panda, Thomo and JJ walking into the pub.

"NAOMI! EMILY! Did you have a wizzer holiday?" Panda asked.

"Yeah, great thanks. You might want to think twice before going in there. The other's are in a bit of an exclusive foursome mood." Naomi replied.

"It's ok they know we're coming," JJ started before breaking off and saying, "Oh bobbins."

Emily folded her arms, "Just what is going on with everyone today?"

JJ stared at the floor, "Nothing just pool and beer, well not for me as I don't drink as it makes my tablets stop working, which would make me even more strange, which is actually quite hard to imagine, well not for me as I've seen it."

Panda grabbed his shoulders. "You're doing it again JJ"

JJ stopped and looked up, "Right, thanks. Nothing's happening."

Naomi shook her head and took Emily's hand, "Come on let's go over to the relative sanity of my Mum's house, and believe me that's a sentence I never thought I'd say."

The three of them made sure the couple were gone before entering the pub. They made their way over to where Effy, Katie, Freds and Cook were sitting, "Hey guys, why the urgency all of a sudden?" JJ asked.

Effy pulled up a chair for him, "Naomi is talking about quitting her job, all because Foster is making her life unbearable. We're not going to let that happen so we need to do it this week. Let's run through all the parts and work out the final detail."

"Can we get a drink first as this might take some time." Panda asked.

Effy nodded, "Of course, let's all take a break and meet back at the table in 10 minutes."

Naomi and Emily let themselves into Gina's house. "Mum, where are you?"

Gina practically ran at them, "Here you are, back from Spain. You both look very well and nicely tanned, how was it?" She hugged them both enthusiastically.

Naomi pushed her gently, "For God's sake Mum, can't you let us get in the house before the onslaught."

"Naomi, there's no need to be like that, I'm just happy to see you." She turned to Emily, "She always was an undemonstrative child. I think you're the only person she really likes touching."

Emily smiled, "Well, you don't see me complaining."

"The kettle's on or there's wine if you'd prefer." Gina said ushering them into the kitchen and sitting them down at the table.

Naomi replied, "Tea's fine, we've had a few beers and we've both got work tomorrow. Are there any biscuits?"

"Naomi, I've just watched you polish off a Sunday roast, how can you still be hungry?" Emily said.

Naomi grinned, "I've got a special garibaldi stomach, I can always find room."

Gina placed the tea in front of them and sat down, "So then, tell me all about your holiday. I doubt you got much sightseeing done."

"Why do you think that? I always like to get a feel for a place when I visit, immerse myself in the culture." Naomi stated.

Gina looked at them both, "Naomi, I may be your mother but I'm not totally dead from the waist down. I remember being in love and being in the sun, it's a powerful combination. I expect most of your time was spent fucking all over the villa and hardly bothering to get dressed."

Naomi spluttered, "Mum, boundaries, remember?"

Emily laughed, "Come on babe, it is a pretty good summary of the holiday."

Naomi looked at her and smiled, "Yeah, I guess so, but we did some other stuff too, I'm not a total sex maniac."

Emily raised her eyebrow, "Could have fooled me, you wouldn't leave me alone."

Naomi leant over and kissed her, "then you shouldn't be so irresistible."

Gina watched her daughter, she was like a different person now she was with Emily. Of course she'd always been kind and generous but she was so defensive and prickly that no one ever got to see most of her good qualities or her softer side. Now here she was sitting in front of her being so open and loving with her girlfriend. She smiled at them.

Emily noticed and smiled back, "You looked lost in thought then Gina."

Gina replied before she could stop herself, "I was. I was just thanking my lucky stars you came into Naomi's life and made her so happy. The pair of you light up a room when you're together. I just wanted to capture the moment in my head so I'd have something to tell the grandkids."

Naomi started to cough violently as she choked on her biscuit. Emily thumped her back and Gina got up to get her some water. After the coughing subsided the blonde looked at her Mum, "please don't mention things like that when I'm eating, or possibly ever, again. Can we just talk about the holiday and leave it at that?"

Emily squeezed her hand and smiled at her reassuringly. "Why don't we change the subject? You should tell your Mum about work."

Gina looked at her alarmed "That man hasn't tried anything again has he?"

"No, but it is sort of to do with him. I'm thinking of resigning." Naomi replied.

Gina looked horrified, "Absolutely no way Naomi. You love that job and I will not let you resign just because some vile man assaulted you and is now being a bastard."

Emily looked at her, "I've tried all of this Gina, but she won't listen."

"Well if she's not even listening to you then we're in trouble."

Naomi waved her hand in front of them, "She is still in the room and I said I was thinking about it. I need to talk to Emily some more before I finally decide."

Gina sighed, "Well I just hope Emily manages to talk some sense into you. Why should you be punished for something he did?"

Naomi rolled her eyes, "Emily' s tried all this Mum, like I said we'll discuss it further and I'll be sure to let you know once I decide." The blonde looked at her watch. "We should get going, I've got a ton of things to do before tomorrow."

Gina showed them out and hugged Naomi at the door, "I'm only trying to help love."

Naomi hugged her back, "I know, but I'm not five anymore Mum, I can make decisions for myself."

They got half way down the road when Emily realised they hadn't dropped off Gina's present. "Wait here, I need to give this to your Mum."

She ran back to the house and rang the doorbell. Gina opened it in surprise, "Emily love, did you forget something?"

Emily handed her the gift wrapped parcel, "We got you a present, it's not much but we thought you'd like it."

Gina hugged her, "Thank you it's very kind."

As she was leaving the redhead turned, "Don't worry, I'll do my best to talk her out of it."

Gina smiled, "I know you will love, see you soon."

While Naomi and Emily sat oblivious at Gina's the summit meeting was taking place in the pub. Effy looked around everyone, "Right let's do a quick progress update and then run through this from the start. Cook, did you manage to get the wire?"

Cook nodded, "A bloke, who knows a bloke, who knows a bloke managed to get his hands on one for me. Got it behind the bar actually, do you want me to get it?"

Effy nodded, "It would be good if Panda and JJ can familiarise themselves with it. JJ have you got all the equipment and software you need?"

JJ nodded, "Affirmative, all present and correct." Cook sat back down and put the device on the table.

Effy took a deep breath and turned to Panda, "How are things going with Foster?"

"They're super wizzer. I keep asking him to help me out with things and touching his arm and all that rubbish. He's already started to compliment me on stuff. I've got him convinced I'm a vulnerable damsel in distress." Panda replied.

Effy looked at her, "That's great, are you sure you're still ok with this?"

Panda nodded, "The guy's a sleaze, I'm happy to be part of the plan."

"Thomo, Freds how are you getting on making contact with your mates at the hotels?" Effy asked.

Freddie started, "I've pretty much got half of the city centre covered and I know the guys I've been speaking to have contacts all over."

Thomo nodded, "It is the same for me, I think we should be alright no matter which one it is."

Effy sat back, "How quickly can you get in touch with them as we might not have much warning, a couple of days maybe?"

Freds shrugged, "A couple of days is fine, they're good guys and even if they're not working they know who will be. What about you and Katie?"

Katie answered, "We managed to track down Olivia, understandably she was nervous about talking to us when she found out what we wanted. He actually raped her, she wasn't as lucky as Naomi. When she found out he'd tried again and we outlined how we were going to get him she changed her mind. In fact she put us in touch with a couple of other girls he'd either tried or succeeded in assaulting. The guy is fucking vile."

Effy spoke in a low voice, "I know, which is why we have to stop him once and for all. Let's do the run through. Panda when is he off to the States again?"

Panda thought for a minute, "Week after next sometime I think."

"Right that means working backwards if he does his stuff on Friday, then we'll have to meet him on Thursday. JJ how long will you need to work your magic?"

"Theoretically I could do it in one day but it doesn't leave much room if things go wrong so two is better." JJ replied.

Effy nodded, "Two days it is. Which means you Pandapops are up on Tuesday, ok?"

"Fine by me," Panda said, "that'll give me tomorrow to keep stringing him a long a bit. Eff, what happens if he doesn't fall for it?"

Effy snorted, "This is Foster, he'll fall for it hook line and sinker and you're cute. So where are we, Monday and Tuesday Panda's going to up the flirting, try to ask him a few spurious work things too. Then Tuesday evening she's going to work late and wait until the office is clear before asking to speak to him in private. Unbeknown to him, Panda is going to be wearing a mike and recording the whole conversation, even at the desk. You need to think about what you wear so it's not obvious Panda and also the reason you want to speak to him."

Panda jumped up and down excitedly, "I already have and it's wakker. I'm going to pretend that my boyfriend wants to surf and turf but I'm shy and worried I'll do it all wrong so I need to be shown what to do."

Cook laughed, "That's genius."

Effy smiled, "He's right, it's a great reason. Now remember Panda, it doesn't matter what you say at the meeting so be as provocative and downright slutty as you want. What's important here is that he says the phrases on that list I gave you, ok? You have to do whatever it takes to get those words out without putting yourself in any danger. Then you suggest he book a hotel for Thursday and get the hell out. We'll be outside if you need us."

Freds looked at JJ, "Then it's over to you JJ. I'll bring Panda back to my shed where you've got everything set up and we can record her side of the conversation before you put it together."

Katie interrupted him, "Wouldn't it be easier to wait to record Panda until after we hear what Foster is saying?" She looked at JJ.

JJ paused, "It would be quite a lot easier as I can just slot in Panda's sections without too much extra manipulation. That means I need to get Foster's side together by Wednesday night and she can record her half then. I can add the bits from Olivia and the others anytime."

"Panda, you need to find out the name of the hotel on Wednesday, don't take any of this bollocks about it being a surprise. You need to arrange to meet him there, ok?" Effy continued. "Then Freds, you and Thomo need to get moving and make sure we have a contact who'll be working at the right hotel on Thursday night."

Panda put her hand up, "I have a question, do I go to the room with him?"

Katie nodded, "Sorry Panda, you have to. We can't have him getting suspicious before we confront him."

Thomo looked at his girlfriend, "Do not worry Panda, I will be there and will hurt him badly if he hurts you."

Freddie smiled at Effy, "So I guess that's finally where you and Katie come in."

Effy nodded, "But we're not going in alone. You and Cook have to come with us in case he kicks off. I mean Katie is quite scary but so is Naomi and look how he managed to hurt her."

Cook tapped the table, "Please, tell me I'm going to be able to twat him?"

"No Cook, I've already told you no violence unless he starts it." Katie told him.

Effy agreed, "Sorry Cook, don't you think I want to fuck him up good and proper too but getting done for assault isn't going to get us anywhere."

Katie continued, "So right we go into the hotel room and play him the recording, after we've got bored of his protests that it didn't happen like that, then what?"

Effy smiled, "I asked Naomi earlier what would make work more bearable for her and so in return for the taped conversation not being released we are going to get Foster to publicly apologise to her and reinstate her as his deputy."

They all sat back and admired the plan, in many ways it was quite simple but some of the actions relied on things going their way so it was still a risk. It was Katie who broke the silence.

"Eff, it's a great plan, honestly. But I can't help feeling a bit cheated, it's brilliant that Naomi will get her old work back and probably not leave, but we said we'd ruin his life. This way if he agrees to do what we say he gets away with it." The others mumbled their agreement.

Effy laughed coldly, "There you go underestimating me again Katie Fitch. That's phase 1. For any of this to work you need to totally understand Foster's mind. Most men wouldn't even enter a room with a female colleague after hours in case it looks suspicious, Foster thrives on it. He loves the danger, he gets off on it. That means he's a guy who takes risks and thinks he's invincible, he'll always come out on top."

Katie nodded, "Ok, so that's why the plan will work." But Effy interrupted her.

"No Katie, not just why the plan will work but why we'll end up destroying his life. A man like Foster can't contemplate losing, he will spend all his time thinking of how he can get back at us. He'll know the reason we've done this is for Naomi and that will be where he thinks he can hit back. He won't be able to interfere with her work so he'll try something else, and it will be public."

They all looked at the brunette, open mouthed. Katie finally said, "Emily and Naomi won't be in danger will they?"

Effy shook her head, "No he'll try to split them up in some way I'm sure of it. And when he does I'm going to be there and make sure that recording goes to every employee at Short & Milner, all of our clients across the world, the Police and most importantly his wife. Then I'm going to watch and laugh as he loses his job, his family and maybe even his freedom. That's phase 2."

Freds stared at her, "And you're sure that's what he'll do?"

"Freds my love, I'd stake my life on it." Effy replied. "So feeling less cheated now Katiekins?"

Katie nodded, "Much less cheated, but also a lot more scared of you."

Naomi and Emily were in the lounge watching telly, Emily was in her favourite spot with her head in the blonde's lap and as normal Naomi was playing with the redhead's hair.

"God we're like an old married couple, we have a routine and everything." Naomi stated.

Emily turned in her lap to face the blonde, "What's wrong with that, I like having a routine with you."

Naomi replied, "It was an observation, not a criticism Em."

Emily turned away huffily and carried on watching the programme until she felt a tap on her shoulder, she turned back. "What?"

Naomi smiled at her, "Emily what's up? You've been acting oddly since we came back from my Mum's."

Emily turned away again, "No I haven't, I'm fine."

"Emily," there was a warning in the blonde's voice, "talking about things, not letting them fester, it works both ways you know. Tell me why you're so quiet."

Emily sighed and sat up, "I know, you're right I should practice what I preach but I'm afraid to bring it up.

Naomi smiled at her, "It can't be that bad and this is the new grown up me remember. We can talk about whatever it is, and work through it together.

The redhead looked at her, "Ok but don't freak out. Do you think we have a future?"

Naomi looked shocked, "Of course I do. Why? Don't you?"

Emily nodded, "Of course but we've never actually talked about it, you know what the future might look like."

"We have a bit, but I guess I've been enjoying the present so much it hasn't come up." Naomi stated.

Emily took a deep breath, "Naomi I want a baby," she stopped as she saw the look of horror on the blonde's face, "Oh God Naomi, wait, I don't mean right now, I mean eventually, at some point."

Naomi started to hyperventilate and clutched her chest, "I can't breathe, I need air, fuck Emily you nearly gave me a heart attack then."

Emily waited until her breathing had slowed, "What I mean is eventually I want the lot, the wedding, the 2.4 kids all of it. If it's not what you want then I think we need to talk about it because it's something I'm going to find hard to compromise on."

Just then they heard the door go and Effy and Katie came into the lounge. Effy looked at Naomi, "What's the matter Naoms? You look like you've seen a ghost."

Naomi looked at her wildly, "I'm going for a fag, I'll be back in a minute."

Katie turned to Emily, "So come on then where's my present?"

Emily paused, "Look Katie, now's not the best time to do this. We we're kind of in the middle of something."

"For fuck's sake Em, do you two ever do anything else?" Katie rolled her eyes exasperatedly.

Effy looked at Emily, "I don't think they were doing that Katie. Maybe you can get your present another time." Emily smiled at her gratefully.

"But I want it now," whined Katie.

Emily turned to her, "You're such a selfish bitch Katie, everything has always got to be about you hasn't it? No one else might have anything going on at all. It's all me, me, fucking me with you isn't it?"

Katie looked like she'd been slapped, "I didn't mean to, I mean I don't, sorry." She finished lamely.

"It's nothing to do with her Emily, stop taking your frustration out on poor Katie." Naomi said from the doorway.

Emily looked at her, "I didn't realise you'd come back in. Sorry Katie I didn't mean to get angry."

Effy said, "Why don't we leave you two alone to talk about whatever it is you need to."

Naomi shook her head as she walked back into the room, "No it's ok, we'll go upstairs. Come on Emily." The blonde walked out of the room without looking at the redhead.

Emily followed her upstairs and found her sitting on the bed, she sat down and began to speak, "Naomi, I didn't mean to freak you out." She was silenced by the blonde's hand.

"Emily please stop assuming everything is freaking me out, otherwise what's the point in me trying to change."

Emily swallowed, Naomi sounded angry, "Sorry, it's just easy to forget when I get a bit stressed. Naomi, please look at me."

The blonde looked at her and Emily noticed her eyes were cold, "The new me, us, is supposed to talk about things, so let's talk. You've been off with me since we got back from my Mum's because you think I don't want the same things as you, why?"

Emily was flustered, "It's just when Gina talked about grandkids, you choked and told her never to mention it again."

Naomi narrowed her eyes, "So from that one comment, you have worked out that I don't want to get married, have kids or any kind of future with you? Did you ever think to ask me? Did it ever occur to you that there may be another reason why I wasn't comfortable with my Mum talking about us having children?"

Emily shook her head, "No." She said quietly.

"You just assumed it all and instead of us having a conversation about something which is pretty huge, we're now on the verge of having a row about it. How does that fit in to this whole total honesty, getting through things together stuff you keep spouting? How can I do that if you just automatically second guess my thoughts or feelings?" The blonde asked.

Emily smiled sadly, "I'm sorry, I should have approached this a totally different way without starting from the point where you wouldn't want everything I did and assuming I'd have to persuade you."

Naomi nodded, "Yes you should. How do you think it makes me feel when you keep doubting me and the way I feel about you? What if this had been the other way around and I was the one who was deciding, without even talking to you, that we might as well break up because you didn't want what I wanted so there was no point in carrying on."

"I'd be angry with you and upset that you thought it was ok to make a huge decision without me. Oh, Naomi I'm so sorry, no actually ashamed, I've been behaving like an immature, insensitive twat." Emily replied.

Naomi looked at her, "A bit like old me? But luckily for you new me is very tolerant and forgiving. Emily, I didn't want my Mum talking about us having kids because, call me old fashioned, I hoped we'd be the first ones to talk about that."

Emily smiled at her, "I understand that's what normally happens, you know in non mental relationships. So can we talk now?"

Naomi bit her lip, "That was kind of the plan. Emily, I love you more than anything or anybody else in the world and I spend most of the time working out ways to make you happy. I live in the present most of the time because I can't believe how lucky I am to have you and I want to enjoy every minute, but that doesn't mean I don't think about the future too. Neither of us knows what that will bring but it doesn't mean we can't talk about it and plan our life together. That's the important bit, doing it together. We won't always agree and we'll both have to compromise on some things but whatever happens it will be our future."

Emily shook her head, "Fucking hell, are we changing into each other?"

Naomi laughed, "Apparently it's a common lesbian phenomenon, we are becoming one person, behold the birth of Naomily." She paused, "Close your eyes."

Emily hesitated and then shut her eyes, "This better not be cruel Naomi." She suddenly felt the blonde move so she was sitting right behind her. She could feel Naomi's breath on her neck as she moved her mouth close to her ear.

Naomi whispered, "You asked what the future might look like, I'll tell you what I see. Imagine ten years time, we've been together 11 years in total and married for eight. We moved out of the centre of town not long after we got married and bought a house in that village with the duck pond. It needed a bit of work doing to it but we fell in love with it as soon as we saw it. We didn't mind doing it up because it made us feel like it was really ours.

We both still work in Bristol because we don't want to work long hours or be away from home too much. We travel into and home from work every day together because it gives us a little bit more time with each other. Every evening I kiss you and tell you I love you before we get interrupted by the kids.

We've got three, two boys and a girl. Josh is the eldest, he's 7 and has your eyes, he's quiet but when he says something it's always worth listening to. Next is Ben, he's 5 and is boisterous and naughty, but he has a smile that melts your heart so it's really difficult to stay angry. Finally there's Izzy, she's just two and has bright blue eyes and already you just know she's going to be a heartbreaker. She's got her brothers wrapped around her little finger and they run around after her all the time.

We've got a dog and a rabbit and at weekends we go for long walks and talk. We still can't keep our hands off each other, even if we're tired and we make sure Katie or my Mum babysits at least once a month so we can go on a date. Every morning we wake up and you look at me and make me feel like I did when we first fell in love."

Emily slowly opened her eyes and turned to face the blonde, there were tears spilling down her cheeks. She just sat staring at Naomi until she got quite uncomfortable, "Emily say something, even if it's to rubbish what I just told you."

Emily smiled, "Every time, Naomi, how do you do it?"

Naomi looked confused, "What do I do every time?"

"Just when I think I finally understand you, you do something that totally surprises me. Just when I think I can't possibly love you any more than I do, you make me fall deeper in love with you. That was the most beautiful thing anyone has ever said to me." Emily responded.

Naomi blushed, "I wanted you to know I do think about these things, that I do plan for our future, because I can't imagine my future without you in it."

"I love you Naomi, and don't want a future without you either." Emily said simply.

She moved forward and gently pushed the blonde until she was lying on the bed and Emily was on top of her. Naomi gasped as she looked into the brown eyes, which were filled with more desire than she'd ever seen before.

"And now I'm going to show you how much I want a future with you." The redhead said before lowering her mouth to cover the blondes.