So sorry for the huge delay in posting! I've been so busy with something else! I will try get the next chapter up much quicker... I know it's not long until the end of this now, but I'm pretty convinced that there's a sequel coming, perhaps set a few years after this ends. I'm guessing that people would prefer it as a new story as opposed to just continuing the chapters on this one?

Anyway, I hope you're all still liking this and it's not getting "too pedestrian"?! Let me know!

They had been home for little more than a week, and the night of the launch party had crept upon them. Bo had several things that she needed to make sure were ready, and that the bar was fully prepped for the evening ahead. She also had some interviews with potential managers to fit in to the day. She needed to get up.

As soon as she tried to roll over in her bed, she felt Lauren's arm tighten around her. The blonde's hair was splayed across Bo's chest, and she wondered if somehow she could still manoeuvre her way out of the hold without stirring her.

As she tried again, Lauren groaned loudly, her voice groggily complaining, "Babe, no! Let's just stay here… I don't care about any party."

Bo laughed softly, brushing the hair away from her body, and gently back onto the blonde's, now that she knew she was awake.

"Lauren, you don't mean that! Everyone has been working on this really hard! Besides, people want to congratulate you on all of your hard work."

"Well, I changed my mind. I don't need congratulating, I just want to stay here, with you." She gently turned her head around to look at Bo through half-closed lids.

"I want to congratulate you."

"You know, there's other ways that you can do that." Lauren idly wrapped a leg around Bo's.

Bo laughed again, "And those ways are very tempting! But I need to get up, and I need to get to the Dal soon."

Lauren maneuvered slightly to try to pull Bo on top of her, but in her half awake state, she was no match for the fully aware brunette. "Please?" Lauren pleaded, and stuck out her bottom lip in a childish sulk.

"I'm too busy." While the words spilled from Bo's mouth, she also allowed Lauren to tip the balance so that her body crashed into the artist. A gentle moan escaped Bo as she pressed her naked body against her lover's.

"Too busy?" Lauren smirked.

"There's always time for you." Bo smiled into the kiss, as it deepened. Bo pulled away slightly. "But seriously, you do want this party, right?"

Lauren sighed, "I want it, but for you guys, rather than me. I'm not interested in all the self congratulating, but I know you all want the party. And it's not just about me, it's the band too. But, I'd be just as happy staying here with you." Lauren smiled seductively. "A nice, romantic meal, a good bottle of wine… a comfortable bed."

"Speaking of which…" Bo kissed her and pulled away again. "You've been here for the whole week… since that first night you've not stepped foot in your home."

"Are you complaining?"

"Far from it, I love having you around… even if we barely get any work done. But, maybe you should consider making this more permanent."

Lauren sighed, "I'll consider it… But I need to paint…"

"Something else you haven't done since we've been back…."

"Which is probably why we shouldn't change our situation. You distract me too much."

"I just want to spend time with you, but not at the expense of your career."

"I know, I know… Can we change the subject?"

"To what?"

"No talking." Lauren moved her hands to Bo's buttocks, pulling their centers together firmly.

Bo started to kiss her neck, sucking harder as she elicited moans from the other woman.

"Okay, you persuaded me… I do have a little time for this."

Bo had finally managed to peel herself away from Lauren, and convinced her that she should also take a shower, especially as she hadn't left the bed for almost thirty six hours. Lauren had spent the rest of Bo's time there trying to convince her that a party was unnecessary and a waste of money. Bo laughed it off, kissing her fondly on the nose, and retorting that they could just celebrate the band instead. That had provoked a brief period of scowling, before Bo relented into a tickling session to get Lauren to appreciate the funny side of things.

"Come on, Lauren. The past few days, you've been so lack luster. You haven't painted, you haven't been out… we've been hibernating in my bed. And we both need some fresh air!"

"I know. I'm tired, and uninspired… so I'd rather just be with you. Maybe that will inspire something."

"You'll get your mojo back."

"Yeah… Maybe I should go home and at least try to do some work for a few hours before tonight."

"There you go!" Bo slapped Lauren's rear playfully. "Okay, now I need to go too. I already miss you." Lauren stepped into Bo's body space, taking her face firmly between her hands and placing a loving kiss on her lips.

"I love you, Bo. And thank you, for doing this."

"You're welcome. Anything for my girl, even working with Evony is a treat…"

"Really?!" Lauren laughed.

"No, I'm just trying that mind over matter thing."

"Oh, you don't mind, so she doesn't matter?"

"You got it! Now, go see if you can create some masterpiece, and I will see you later. Want me to come pick you up?"

"No, I can drive."

"You're not drinking? Oh come on! It's a celebration! I'll get a cab to come pick you up from your place… say seven thirty?"

"Okay."

"Smile!" Bo was feeling a little exasperated.

Lauren smiled back at her. "I know, I know… I'm just feeling a little under the weather I guess. I'll be perky tonight, I promise."

"Good! I want to show you off! And hopefully, we'll have a new manager by then… And tomorrow I can start planning a vacation with you."

"Sounds great!" Lauren suddenly frowned, "How are you going to get ready for tonight?"

"Oh, I can do that at the bar. I'll take a change of clothes, and make-up. It's no big deal, I've done it a million times before. But baby, as much as I want to stay here and spend my time with you… I really do need to go, or we'll not be getting that vacation any time soon! I'll have interviewees waiting for me, and there's a few in there that I really like the sound of!"

"Yes, and I need to get to my place."

They said their goodbyes, and Bo left Lauren the keys, so that she could take her time before leaving, before heading off herself for her already late interviews.

"I'm so sorry Crystal!" Bo apologized for the third time.

"It's okay, I mean the guy has been there about twenty minutes. He seems really nice, I just said you were stuck in traffic, and that you're usually really punctual."

"Anyone would think it's me applying for the job!" Bo laughed, and smiled, "But thank you, I appreciate it. I wouldn't want him to think that I make a habit of it."

Bo walked over to where Crystal had seated the man, and held out her hand. He was smartly dressed, and had a firm handshake. His eyes sparkled as he shook Bo's hand and he smiled widely.

"I'm so sorry I'm late… you know city traffic!" She flashed a smile back.

"Well, that's one of the reasons you need someone close by, right? So you don't have to worry so much about that!"

"Yes! I must say it will be nice to sit back a little bit more." She looked briefly at the resume in front of her. "So, tell me a little about you… Zachary."

Kenzi stood in front of Lauren, her hands tapping her thighs slightly, as she tried to think of the right words.

Lauren had been surprised by the visit, especially as they would see each other in a few hours at the Dal anyway. She observed the petite girl's awkward stance, and discomfort, and decided to try alleviate it with a straightforward approach. "Is everything okay Kenzi?"

"Everything is fine, Lauren. I guess I just wanted to see you before tonight… You know, just in case it gets crazy and I never get a chance."

"Ummm, okay…" Lauren frowned, still confused. "Would you like a drink?"

"I'd like several, but I'm saving them for tonight."

"Coffee?"

"Sure."

Lauren had only just made more coffee, and topped her own up as she poured some for Kenzi into an over-sized mug. Inviting her to sit at the kitchen table, they sat opposite each other, and there was an awkward silence lingering in the air.

"So…." Lauren broke the silence, "Are you all prepared for tonight?"

"Totes. We've been rehearsing some new tracks all week. And the album is like second nature to us. We've been playing those songs for a while, Evony just helped us package them in a way to appeal to the masses." She imitated the gallery owner, making Lauren openly laugh.

"Well that certainly sounds like something Evony would have had on her mind. Are you happy with the result?"

"Absolutely! We've been gigging with very little exposure for so long, it's nice to have some backing. And album sales so far seem good! Although, to be fair, I think the members of the band have probably accounted for half of the actual sales!"

"Well, I'm looking forward to hearing you again. It seems so long since that first night Bo invited me to the Dal and you were playing. But it brings back some lovely memories."

"Oh, I remember you two, turning up the heat on the dance floor! You know when you were both just secretly lusting after each others lady bits." Kenzi winked.

"I wouldn't put it quite like that," Lauren's laugh was soft, "but I see your point. It took me a while to realize what I really wanted and who should really be in my life. But I'm getting there."

Kenzi looked down at her drink, clutching the mug tightly in her delicate hands, suddenly seeming quite fragile and almost a little insecure. "That's why I came over to see you."

Lauren sat back a little in surprise. "Oh? Really?"

"Yes, I mean, not in a bad way. I just know that you've both come a long way. Even in this short length of time."

Lauren was a little hesitant, "Yes… we have."

"And I know I wasn't always helpful… Well you know, I did say some things that I regret… and I could have really messed things up for the two of you…"

"But you didn't."

"No, but I could have. And I feel awful, letting my mouth run away at the speed of… of…. Something really fast… and stupid. Something super stupid." Kenzi looked up, and smiled when she saw the sympathetic smile on Lauren's face. "I just would never have forgiven myself if you two had broken up over me and my mouth… And Bo probably wouldn't have either. And I know that you and me probably have a long way to go… But I just wanted to say that I am so happy that the two of you are so clearly loved up and happy together."

"Thank you, Kenzi."

"I mean, it's cringe inducing at times, and a bit I love you more, no I love you more… You hang up… no no, you hang up!" Lauren rolled her eyes a little as she laughed at Kenzi's gentle mockery. "But, Bo means the world to me… and to see her this happy… and because of you… Well that means the world to me too."

"Thank you… I think." Lauren laughed. "I do love her Kenzi, very much so. Bo's been there for me through all of this. She's been amazing."

"I know you do." She paused, not entirely sure where to take the conversation next. "Actually, I'm surprised you aren't painting? I thought you'd be right back to work after the trip."

"No no… I just can't seem to find the inspiration, but it'll come. It always does eventually. And I figured I owed Bo some time, just the two of us."

Kenzi studied Lauren's face for a few moments before continuing. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, what makes you ask that?"

"Just how you just spoke about Bo. Is everything okay between the two of you."

Lauren laughed to brush off the statement. "Of course it is! I guess what worried me a little was Bo's reaction when we got back. She seemed to think that I was going to disappear suddenly…"

Kenzi held up her hand, and interrupted, "Wait, wait, wait… Are you telling me that you're actually at it like cats and dogs rather than rabbits?!"

"No… I mean we're getting along great, and the sex! The sex is just-"

"Whoa there! Too much information for young, innocent ears!"

Lauren blushed slightly at the near over-share. "Sorry. We're getting along great, but I just think that maybe the whole trip… It took a deeper toll than either of us probably realize."

"Well, I know Bo really took a risk coming to see you… with her heart that is."

"I know." Lauren looked down at her mug and bit her bottom lip subconsciously.

Kenzi observed her carefully for a few moments, and watched how Lauren started to fidget with her hair, before placing it behind her ear. The blonde looked up, and smiled a little shyly.

Kenzi took a breath, "Okay, so the way I see it, is that maybe you're both a little insecure right now? Bo is scared of losing you, after the whole Nadia business, and you're scared of losing Bo after leaving her on that brink of worry for so long. It's like a bad habit you're both falling into."

"What do you mean?"

"You're both so scared of losing each other that you aren't fully appreciating the moment."

"Oh, we're appreciating the moment, I mean we've done nothing but that since-"

"Whoa! Stop again! I don't need to hear it!"

"I didn't mean… well I did… but yeah, we are enjoying each other right now."

"Maybe you just need to sit down and talk it through? Out of the sack for a while?"

"Maybe? I don't know? I mean we have talked a little, and I keep trying to tell her that I do love her and want to be with her."

Kenzi started waving her hand frantically in front of her eyes, "Oh, I think I'm gonna cry! I have eye water forming!"

Lauren laughed, "Oh shush! You encouraged this, remember!"

"I did, and I'm proud of you both! But really, just both be honest and open with each other. You'll figure things out. And honestly, I never thought I'd see the day that she'd get a manager in to handle most of the daily work at the Dal. I mean since her last relationship she's done nothing but work. I mean she's not been celibate, but the girl has been married to her work. Until you."

"Well, I'm glad. She has the privilege of being able to sit back and enjoy life a little more. She needs to take it. And at least with my work, I'm a little more flexible about when and where I can carry it out."

"See! A match made in heaven! You'll figure it out, after all this, I know you will."

Lauren softly smiled, "Thank you, for the little talk I mean. It's nothing serious, but it was just nice to voice it, especially with someone who knows Bo the best."

"No probs! I'm happy to help, especially after being a bit of a wrecking ball lately!"

"You're forgiven, it's not as though I wasn't fully capable of wrecking things myself. I chose my path, and I almost messed up everything that was good in my life. Luckily, I realized before it was too late."

"Well, if I was a fan of the lady lovin', I may have gone for her myself! So I understand." Kenzi finished her coffee in one last drink from the mug. "And I really need to go get ready for tonight, I just felt like I should say something before then."

"Thank you. I should start thinking about getting prepared for tonight too. I'm starting to look forward to it!"

"You had better be!" Kenzi stood up, Lauren swiftly joining her, and pulling her in for an awkward but grateful hug.

"I will be! Bo's made sure of it!"

"Evony's picking you up, right?"

"No. Bo was sending a car…"

"I would let Evony know that, she's expecting you to travel in with her."

"Oh, okay- no that's fine. I'll let Bo know, and I'll co-ordinate with Evony to get there. Wouldn't want to cause any more friction there!"

"Don't worry about Bo, I'll cancel the car. I know which cab firm she uses!" Kenzi winked.

"Thanks! Now go get ready yourself!"

"Already marching!" Kenzi reached the door quickly. "Laterz blondie!" She whirled in as quickly as she left the building.

Lauren immediately set to cleaning the kitchen, so that her remaining time could be dedicated to getting ready for the evening.

"Bo, why are you freaking out about this? Everything is ready and everything is fine. And I'm sure Lauren will love it." Crystal smiled sympathetically at the bar owner who had been running around the Dal all afternoon.

Bo sighed wearily, "I know, I know. I don't even know why I'm so tense about it. It's a party! We should all be having fun!"

"And I'm sure we all will! Look, everything is ready, people are going to be arriving within the hour, and you need to get ready. So go!"

"Thanks Crystal. I invited the new bar manager too, he'll probably turn up soon, so give him a few drinks on the house and show him around the place, if you're not too busy."

"Oh, he was some nice eye-candy! Of course I have time!"

Bo laughed, "I hardly noticed!"

"Of course not! You're all starry eyed over our guest of honor!"

"Speaking of which… I need to go make myself irresistible for her!"

"I don't think you have much to worry about there."

Lauren sat in the car with Evony, who had been impeccably on time in picking her up.

"So, tonight Lauren, I have some clients turning up, feel free to schmooze them while they've been suitably plied with alcohol!"

"Really? I thought this was just a party."

"It is, but it never hurts to get some more commissions. Maybe we could get you touring at the same time as the band?"

"Touring?"

"Yes, I had a brainwave last night. I thought that maybe you and the band could tour at the same time. They do gigs, you can paint something based on the city you're in. I can tie up the two together, and we have a new kind of art project and more exposure for both of you."

Lauren was about to say something, and then clearly paused before continuing. "Hmmm, I'm not sure. I mean… I'd like to settle a little first."

"You've got plenty of time for that."

"Yes, but I only just committed to this being my home. And then there's Bo…"

"The bar-tender won't be going anywhere. Literally, as well as figuratively."

"Evony! For starters don't disrespect my girlfriend like that, and besides that she's not even a bartender. She pretty much owns the Dal. She's a business woman, just like yourself, it's just a different industry."

"I'll say!" Evony glanced sideways at Lauren, "Look… I just think that you could do better."

"I don't. Bo is everything I want, right now. So let's just move on from this, shall we?" Lauren turned to face the window, keeping her attention on the scenery passing them by.

"I'm just looking out for you. And you know that I'll support your decisions. I just think… I think… you're way out of her league. Look at where she-"

Lauren held up her hand, silencing the other woman. "Evony! Stop! Please. I don't want either of us to get into a conversation that we can't reverse. It's taken me a long time to move out of the situation I had back with Nadia. You may not like Bo much, and you may have some weird hang ups based on nothing that she's done… But I am lucky to still have her after the way I was acting. I almost lost her, I know that… and now, I want to make a go of it. Me and her. And if you mess this up, I will never forgive you for it!"

"You're right." Evony sighed loudly. "I know. I'm being over-protective. Over-bearing. Uber-sensitive, while remaining uber-fabulous, of course." Evony flashed a smile at Lauren. "Forgive me. I over-stepped my mark, and I'm respectfully retreating… in Louboutins, but still retreating."

"Strangely, I know what you're trying to say. And accepted. I just don't want any difficulties right now, I want to relax, sit back a little… and see where my life is headed."

"Don't relax too much! I mean too much horizontal action, leads to less vertical work… right? You are still painting, right?" A deep frown etched over the porcelain skin.

"Stop stressing Evony. I am still working. I haven't painted since I've been back… but I'll start again tomorrow."

"What? You haven't?!"

"No, but it's nothing to worry about. I'm just getting used to being home."

"You've barely been away from it!"

"I mean, home. As in this all being my home." Lauren noticed that Evony's frown wasn't easing away. "Evony. I promise I'll start again tomorrow. Even after the party!"

"Hmmm… I require proof. Anyway, speaking of which… Here we are."

"Do I look okay?"

Evony briefly glanced up and down Lauren, as the car came to a standstill. "Darling, you're arriving with me, you'll turn every head in the joint!" she winked cheekily.

As the driver opened Evony's door, she almost seemed to float elegantly out of the vehicle. Instantly flashes from the paparazzi cameras lit up the area immediately around them.

"Oh good lord!" Lauren rolled her eyes at the unexpected furor, before scooting over to the open door Evony had climbed out of.

Evony, glancing back, grimaced. "Lauren, honey…" she started in a raised whisper and through gritted teeth. "Tony was about to open your door, instead I think they all just got a view of exactly what you're wearing beneath that dress!"

Lauren quickly tugged at the hem of the black dress, and tried to regain her balance a little as she stumbled out of the vehicle. Lauren felt color rushing to her cheeks, spurred on by her exit as well as the unprecedented attention.

"Gentlemen, we did start the celebrations a little early!" Evony tried to make light of the faux pas to save Lauren's embarrassment.

Lauren smiled briefly for the cameras, before speaking through gritted teeth at Evony. "I think I'm in hell!"

"No, no! You're living the dream, honey!"

Evony quickly moved Lauren away from the cameras, and into the Dal, the loud music and laughter spilling out onto the paparazzi as they pushed their way through the door.