Apologies once again to you all for the ridiculous delay in getting this next one out. I haven't really had the enthuiasm to do it when it was half done and then it was nagging me to finish it but the words wouldn't come. Anyway for someone reason the mojo came back and I've finally finished it. Filthy as usual so you have been warned ;)

Molly couldn't keep the smile off her face on the return journey home. She loved the dress and had the urge to take pictures and send it to anyone and everyone in her contacts list, but she wanted it to be a surprise to everyone. She did feel a bit bad as her mum should have been with her but Belinda would get other opportunities with Bella, Jade and the rest. Besides Elizabeth had no daughters and with Rebecca keeping her at icicle length it had just felt right that they'd shared that special moment.

"I'll keep the dress safe in my wardrobe Molly to make sure that Charles doesn't try and sneak a peek" laughed Elizabeth part way through the drive back.

She was almost as happy as Molly feeling a proper warmth and connection with her. She loved Rebecca for giving her a precious grandson but Molly was just something else. She had begun to feel a little old and weary with both her and Edward taking early retirement. Although their sunny trips rejuvenated them, Molly had inspired her to dust off her skills and enjoy something new to do. She was excited about the prospect of the wedding flowers and was certainly looking forward to collaborating with Molly's mum and Nan in Molly's continued absence.

"So are you and Charles up to anything exciting today?" enquired Elizabeth trying to change the subject back to something more mundane.

"Don't think so, but you never know. Charles seems to have a thing about springing surprises on me!"

"Well Edward and I will keep out of your way, I know how precious your time is"

"Thanks Elizabeth, I'd never get a moments peace at my gaff. I do love coming here, thanks again for having me"

"My pleasure Moly, I haven't had so much fun in at New Year in ages!"

They laughed and made small talk home until Elizabeth parked up and they agreed to leave the bag in the car until it could be sneaked indoors at a more opportune moment.

There was still plenty of the morning left as they were greeted by a freshly showered Charles in the hallway.

"Don't think you can get any secrets out of me Charles James, looking all cheery and smelling nice!" said Molly suspiciously.

"Your girls' secrets are safe, I don't want to know!"

"Good, cos I'm not telling! So what exciting things have you got planned for us today?"

"Nothing actually, I thought we'd just see what happened"

"Ok, well then I think a cuppa is in order-Elizabeth?"

"Lovely Molly thank you, I'll take mine up to the snug and you and Charles can have the front room down here to yourselves"

"Thanks Mum, I'll do those then and bring them out, go and chill out Molls I've got this"

Molly shrugged off her coat and hung it on the coat rack before heading to the living room clutching the holiday brochures Charles hadn't noticed. She sat down and flicked through the thin pages. Sunny beaches, palm trees and private villas leapt out at her. She'd never really been on a proper decent foreign holiday. She didn't really count travel with the army and that one disastrous trip to Greece on a girls holiday, well that was best left forgotten about.

The problem was what sort of place to go. Would she be bored on a beach, 1-if she couldn't swim in the sea and 2-well the idea then of a hot holiday was then made worse by number one. City holidays were good. She loved cities, they were at least vaguely civilised, had decent shops and transport but so many people when she wanted to be totally selfish and shut themselves away from the crowds. Even some crappy Center Parcs or Butlins thing would do, but she was only going to do this once and they served it after all.

"What you looking at?" asked Charles over her shoulder making her jump

"Jesus, stop doing that! I'm gonna have a heart attack before I even get back to Africa"

"Just nice to see you reading something different"

"Wouldn't exactly call it reading, more like looking at the nice pretty pictures"

"Ah so you've come back with holiday brochures" he said flopping himself next to her and grabbing the next one on the top of the pile. "So where's it gonna be-Australia? America? China? Europe? Or some sort of Island retreat? Oooo maybe an African safari?!"

"Hold your horses, I've only just started looking"

"Ok, I'll shut up"

They sat in the quiet, sipping on their respective drinks whilst daydreaming of honeymoon destinations. Molly taking the occasional look at what Charles was perusing in an attempt to get an idea of what he might fancy.

"Any clearer?" said Charles eventually, placing his coffee cup on the table before stretching and folding him arms behind his head.

"No" replied Molly grumpily, throwing her remaining magazine onto the floor. "I mean I don't even know where you've been before-I don't want to drag you somewhere where you'll be bored because you've already seen and done everything"

"But it would be different Molly. I'd be doing it with you and not all trips are the same"

"Well what do you see us doing then?"

"Obviously the snorkelling off the Maldives or Seychelles is out, but do we agree there's got to be some sun yeah?"

"Course, I do like the sun but no more deserts, I'm fed up with them!"

"Agreed-so do you want to sightsee or just relax?"

"I'd like to see something new, though that's not hard but I don't want to be traipsing round everywhere. Some sort of spa thing would be nice, I liked that. But what do you wanna do? It's got to be something you'd want to do too"

"To be honest Molly just you, me, a bed, a shower, some nice food and you in a bikini would do it for me, be it Bath or Bora Bora"

"Where the fuck is Bora Bora?"

"I'll get you an atlas!" laughed Charles. "Actually that's not a bad idea, maybe we should just stick a pin in it blindfolded!"

"Go on then, it's not like we're getting anywhere!"

"Ok, give me two seconds". Charles jumped up then rummaged on the bookcase on the wall. "Here we go"

He sat back down and opened it out, one side of the book on each other's leg. He flicked through the pages until he found a world map, before pressing them flat with his hand.

"Ok close your eyes and after three"

Molly closed her eyes. "One, two…" started Charles.

"Hang on" interrupted Molly before he reached three. "Are we doing best of three or something?"

"No!"

"Well what if we get India or something?"

"You don't fancy India?"

"Food would be amazing obviously but no"

"Ok, well if we get that we'll do it again. One, two…."

"What if I land on the North Pole?"

"Now you're being ridiculous. Obviously that doesn't count unless you want to get hypothermia and frost bite in your beach gear?!"

"Ok, then I'm ready"

"One, Two, Three" Charles finally finished as they jabbed a finger towards the pages. Molly tentatively opened her eyes to see what precarious parts of the world they'd picked. Their fingers on a separate page each, not a good start"

"America-looks like New York to me" Molly announced

"Switzerland" chirped Charles.

"Shopping or chocolate, both sound good to me!" laughed Molly.

"No beach though in either location, damn there goes the bikini plan!"

"I could wear a bikini for you anytime Charles"

"Really! How about tonight?" he laughed

"If you want-a sneak preview" she teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah you know medically speaking, I need a good dose of Molly Dawes before she disappears again. I get this craving you know and I need something to satisfy me until she returns"

"You need to do some work mate! Keep yourself occupied, idle hands an all that"

"Oh I can do plenty with my hands" he winked

"Stop being a perv, come on concentrate"

"Ok one more go"

They closed their eyes again, stabbing at hopefully a new destination.

"Bali" said Charles

"Spain" groaned Molly "well at least we're just about on the same page this time"

"Look, why don't I sort this whilst you're away, it'll be my wedding present to you, it probably won't fit into the budget in any case"

"But Charles it's so expensive"

"Let me worry about that. Look I've been to a few places and I'm sure Mum and Dad could give me some pointers as they are seasoned travellers!"

"Are you sure? I'm leaving you a lot to sort out"

"Yes and I'm a big boy, I'm sure I'll manage"

"It's quite exciting. I get to visit somewhere I've never been!"

"Well at least all your shots will be up to date if we need them. I'd better check mine"

"Please no talk of injections, it just reminds me of work, you promised just us today". She gave him her best puppy dog eyes pleading silently.

"Yes, you're right just us", he smiled as he smoothed the curves of her face with his fingers. "Although how do you fancy writing a letter to Bashira and Qaseem until lunchtime updating them and I'll post it after you've gone, post is probably more reliable here"

"Crap yeah I'd forgotten about them in all rush. At least I can tell them the date now" she sighed wistfully.

"Oh I've done your bags by the way and sorted your uniform so nothing for you left to worry about"

"I love this house husband lark of yours, I could get used to this"

"I'm happy to pull my weight. So what do you fancy eating? How about a smorgasbord of stuff you can't get when you're on tour? Decent cheese, good bread and a nice glass of wine?"

"Sounds all a bit French"

"Zat is because ze French are passionate about their food" Charles announced gesturing with his hands.

"Yeah you can knock off the dodgy accent, you sound like an extra from that Allo Allo programme my Nan likes to watch"

Charles laughed out loud. "Alright just trying to create a mood! There's pens and paper in one of the drawers in the bureau over there"

Molly scribbled for the next 45 minutes updating Qaseem and Bashira of a date, a venue and the news that she had a dress-yes her of the constant tied back hair, combats and boots attire. Her guilt resurfaced in regard to the dress plus she really should speak to her mum again before she went back tomorrow. She pulled out her mobile and dialled.

"Hi Mum"

"You alright Molls? Everything ok?"

"Yeah just wanted to catch up before I went off again tomorrow"

"That's nice, you know I miss you Molls. Have you been up to much with all the wedding stuff?"

"Dunno what I was thinking Mum making it so soon but I've got flowers, a photographer, a venue, invitations planned and Charles is sorting the honeymoon as I haven't got a Scooby about world travel!"

"Blimey that's a lot-you won't be needing me to help at this rate"

"Of course I will Mum, I still need my mum to hold my hand on the day"

"Oh don't you'll start me off, my Molls walking down the aisle. You'll need to sort dresses ASAP"

"Yeah about that"

"Don't worry about us your Nan reckons one of her mates can sort us all out this end"

"No mum I'm not having nicked dresses or outfits on my family, we're doing this properly. I've looked at some dresses for me sisters and you and Nan can find something in the January sales can't you? I can send you some money obviously"

"Only if you're sure-but what about you, when are you gonna have time to get some fancy dress appointment and alterations?"

"Would you be upset if you weren't there when I got it?"

"Well it would be nice but you don't need me cramping your style. Plus the fact that once you've made your mind up there's no stopping you!"

Molly silently breathed a sigh of relief "Would you totally freak out if I told you I've already got one?"

"What you've got one already? That was quick is it some sort of James family heirloom or something?"

"No nothing like that, just a high street dress. I only went to look with Elizabeth this morning and well she hasn't got any daughters and that Rebecca didn't include her last time and it looked so amazing, I just bought it" she blurted out in a rush.

"Well that was nice for her then. Have you got any pictures?"

"You're not mad?"

"It's only a dress Molls"

"Yeah but isn't it supposed to be some magical mother and daughter moment?"

"Maybe in the movies Molls. Your Nan weren't with my when I got mine, you're more like me than you know"

"I hoped you wouldn't mind an you've got other chances with Bella, Jade and the rest"

"Yeah well hopefully they'll marry some nice rich fella too to stop your dad bellyaching about money"

"Is he still being a pain in the arse?"

"Well you know another New Year, another hangover. He was still practically crying about West Ham moving into that Olympic stadium and his precious Boleyn Ground being demolished"

"To be fair Mum that is a pretty big deal. Anyway we're straying off the point. I'll email you a picture from the website of the dress and I've decided on like a mint green or a coral for the girls but we can get them when I'm back"

"You will take care won't you?"

"Course Mum, I'll be fine. You just keep sending me them crappy celeb mags and I'll be as happy as a pig in shit!"

"There's my girl. Look I'd better go, I can hear 'em moaning about lunch"

"My slave is making mine!"

"Lucky you, wish I had one of them. Fancy renting him out?"

"You make him sound like some sort of male escort!"

"You're right better keep him away from your Nan!"

"Alright Mum, I'll keep in touch, love you"

"You too darling. Bye"

Molly disconnected the call feeling much happier that she'd sorted things with her mum and she had no reason to feel guilty anymore. Charles shouting to her from the kitchen that lunch was ready, roused her to get up off the sofa. She scuffed her way down the hall to the kitchen where a selection of foods were neatly presented on the table.

"You know you're not doing yourself any favours doing this?"

"Why not?"

"Cos I'm gonna start making sure you've got my dinner on the table when I get in from work or there'll be trouble!"

"Well I'll try my best. If I'm in before you and obviously if Sam's about there'll be something to eat. But what if you get home before me-microwaves meals is it?!"

"Well it's better than letting you starve-anyway there's always Pot Noodles, stuff on toast or I can do a mean jacket potato"

"I'm sure you'll always be about to sort a different hunger of mine!" he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

"God you've got sex on the brain today!"

"Ok, ok let's just eat lunch" Charles huffed in a mock strop.

Molly munched on a French stick with lashings of butter, cheese, ham and proper thick salted crisps. She groaned with delight over a warm sausage roll, mumbling she wished there was a Greggs at their camp.

"I was thinking we could go for a walk this afternoon, not far just Victoria Park again, then we could cuddle up on the sofa with a takeaway and a film"

"Indian or Chinese?"

"Either, I don't mind, you decide"

"Can we get Chinese? I love a good prawn toast"

"Anything you desire"

"You don't need to spoil me you know"

"Why not. You go back tomorrow, another three months of hard graft, danger, infrequent contact with family and friends"

"I've got friends"

"Ok you've got friends, I just know it's tough and I think some TLC, a snuggle on the sofa and a couple of foil trays of Chinese takeout isn't exactly going overboard"

"S'pose"

"No s'pose about it. Come on finish up and get togged up its cold out, then maybe I'll let you have a hot chocolate when we get back!"

Molly rolled her eyes at his condescending tone but finished her glass of wine and the remainder on her plate, allowing herself to rest before she was dragged back outdoors again.

The walk was cold. Far colder than it had been when she'd nipped out with Elizabeth in the morning. She could have sworn she'd seen tiny snowflakes dancing in the air as they traipsed around the duck pond as they'd done the year before. As much as she complained about the heat whilst they were posted away, she'd much rather that than be cold all the time.

Charles could sense her tension as they continued, changing their route so they were able to get back sooner.

"We are definitely booking somewhere warm for our honeymoon!" said Molly stamping her feet on the door mat as they got inside, attempting to get some feeling back into her toes which felt like blocks of ice.

"Yep I got the memo Molls"

"Come on then, where's that hot chocolate you promised me and do I get to pick the film too?"

"Coming up, just let me get my coat off and yes you can pick the film"

Charles laughed as he watched her scamper off like a child.

Elizabeth was in the kitchen simultaneously making tea. "Hello Charles back so soon?"

"Yeah it's pretty chilly out, definitely not one of Molly's favourite things being cold. I'm on a hot chocolate mission to resolve the situation"

"Are you all sorted for this evening-do you need me to make dinner?"

"No thanks Mum, we're just having a quiet one. Bit of takeaway in front of the box"

"Sounds wonderful, no cooking or washing up"

"Well feel free to put in an order. I'm happy to collect a batch"

"Why not, a little bit never does you any harm now and again I suppose. Actually talking of food, you have remembered that Sam is coming this weekend?"

"It's not my week though is it?"

"Rebecca had some silly event remember, you should check the calendar"

"Sorry, I just all caught up in Molly being here"

"Yes and understandably so. He'll be sad to have missed her I think"

"Yeah maybe"

"Well best make those hot chocolates, it's rude to keep a lady waiting"

Molly had given up trying to pick a film. Most sounded crap-either pretentious bollocks or unfunny looking comedies.

"Shit" she muttered aloud remembering the jar of marmalade again.

"Charming" replied Charles as he sauntered in with two large steaming mugs piled with huge dollops of whipped cream and chocolate flakes.

"I've just remembered that sodding marmalade"

"I'm sure there's a jar in the cupboard you can nick. It's like dad's catnip, you should see how chilled he is after a round of toast!"

Molly laughed imagining a stoned looking Edward grinning like the Cheshire cat, doubly pleased that the hot mug in her hands slowly thawing out her fingers.

"Nothing on Tv?"

"No utter crap. More repeats like Dad's Army"

"Well at least I wasn't like Captain Mainwaring!"

"Well, maybe the bossy bit"

"Ok maybe but you love the Captain Sternface really"

"Captain Sternface?!" laughed Molly nearly choking on her hot chocolate "where did you get that from?!"

"Oh come on you didn't fall for my concentrated, determined face? The expression of thought and planning ahead or concern?"

"If you're talking about the faces you pulled then partly, maybe it was you parading round with your top off, or your arse in those combats-they're all contributing factors!"

"So all superficial then!" he raised a lone eyebrow

"Not always. It was also the words you spoke or the look in your eyes"

"I'm not always good with words Molly"

"Well the words you choose work well for me. Talking of words how about some music instead-a proper chill out?"

"Sure sounds good, I'll get that fire going too"

"In a bit, will you just sit with me whilst we drink these?"

"Sure"

They nestled into each other on the sofa, enjoying the hot velvety smoothness of the sweet liquid, no words needed this time.

Molly awoke alone on the sofa, a fire was raging with some quiet music whispering along in the background. It was now dark outside. The spot where Charles had been sitting was long cold so she could only assume he was out getting their takeaway. She yawned and stretched, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Peering at the coffee table there stood one empty mug and one half full, she must have drifted off and been out for the count pretty quickly. Looking at her watch it was hard to believe she'd be on a plane back to Africa this time tomorrow. Back to the heat, the dust bowl streets and shit washing facilities. "Just three months Molly, just three months" she thought as she got up.

Charles had mentioned Sam was coming at the weekend which was a shame as she would have liked to have seen the cheeky scamp. At least it would be a good distraction too for Charles instead of him moping about after she'd gone. She wandered about the room, her fingertips running along the book spines neatly lined up on the shelves. The leather bindings cool to the touch. She smiled at the family photographs dotted on the walls and the mantelpiece. They never had any pictures up at her house which was a shame though she was sure her Mum and Nan had the proudest pictures tucked away for safe keeping.

She moved to the window. The streetlamps following the curve of the crescent lit up the empty pavements, near silence bar the soft crackles of the logs and muffled sound of a television programme upstairs. It was still so odd for her to experience such quiet and wondered what their home would be like. She laughed to herself as she played with her engagement ring at how different her life had become in such a short space of time. From mouthy gobshite, to decorated medic, engaged to be married and potential homeowner, oh how she'd loved to rub Proud Mary's face in it.

The appearance of headlights drew Molly from her inner musings as she watched Charles approach and competently reverse parallel park. Classic cocky bloke easily handling the steering wheel like the Karate Kid-wax on wax off. That was another bloody thing she'd need to learn, how to damn well drive as well as swim. At least the army could maybe help with the driving thing which would at least save her a few quid she thought. Driving about in a truck or a jeep did sound pretty cool. Though there was no point applying for a provisional licence or whatever it was if she was then gonna change her name. Another load of bloody paperwork to think about. She waved at Charles as he made his way towards the front door, cheap plastic carrier bags in hand.

The smell was divine as she met him in the hallway. "Hey sleeping beauty, you ok?"

"Yeah, I really did drop off didn't I!"

"Yep but it was nice to see you so peaceful and relaxed, I didn't want to get up and leave you"

"You daft sod, though I'd probably be damn hangry later though"

"Hangry?"

"You know hungry and angry-hangry. You must have heard the lads saying it?"

"Never in my life-probably quite appropriate for Sammy though I'll have to remember that!"

"Give me those then whilst you get your coat off". She held out her hands to take the bags from him, keen to crack open some crispy chilli beef and egg fried rice.

"I'll go tell mum it's here, you sort out what you want and I'll come down in two ticks"

Molly slung the bags on the kitchen island, decanting the contents onto the marble surface. Each plastic container filled with different concoctions creating a heady aroma. She stole a few prawn crackers as she went picking up her beef, rice and beloved prawn toasts. She fished around for cutlery and plates, pulling a couple of beers from the fridge while she was it. Piling hers and Charles' onto a tray, she put Edward and Elizabeth's to one side for them to collect.

She shuffled back to the living room, smiling that with a couple of candles dotted about the room it could almost be a perfect romantic meal, if you forgot you were scooping things out of takeaway cartons. She out the tray down and pulled open a few drawers to see if some shred of wax could be found under the copious amounts of paper they seemed to have in this house. She then remembered all the posh silver stuff in the dining room and ran off to grab some fancy looking candelabra before Charles came back. She found the matches by the fireplace and lit the red festive lights. Maybe she could pull off this lovey-dovey stuff after all. She hadn't had much practice to be fair as there certainly was no love with any of the previous dickheads!

She took a swig of beer as she heard Charles softly padding down the stairs, her mouth now quite dry as she felt unnecessarily nervous. She moved her eyes towards the door as he walked in.

"Wow, who needs Michelin starred restaurants!" announced Charles

Molly grinned, pleased he'd broken the thread of tension humming in her body.

"Well I had to try and make it look romantic even with my bedhead hair!"

"It's perfect, you look perfect, I wouldn't want this night any other way". He kissed her on the cheek before wrestling with the flimsy boxes.

Molly lay back against Charles, happily pulling swigs of her beer as she let her huge bellyful of Chinese slowly subside. Charles ran his fingers up and down her free arm as he quietly sung along to the words of the songs drifting from the speakers. The faint rumble of his chest against her back as he easily kept a tune, made her body tingle all over.

"What you thinking about?" he whispered

"That I can't wait to be doing this on our honeymoon. Drink in hand, moonlit sky, the sound of waves in the background"

"Sounds bliss-where's all this Little Miss Romance stuff come from?"

"Don't knock it. I'm just grabbing hold of a new phase of my life that's all. I'm enjoying it, it feels right you know"

"Yes I know, I feel the same" Charles replied, kissing the top of her head.

"Do you think it'll always be like this?"

"We can but try but you know life always has surprises in store. You can never second guess fate"

"That's true, could get hit by a bus tomorrow my Nan always says"

"Smart lady"

"She also says that's the same reason why you should always wear your best knickers"

"What?!"

"You know if you get hit by a bus"

"So you could what? Potentially die happy you were well dressed?!"

"You know in case you have to go to hospital and they take your clothes off"

"Well I hope you're not checking out everyone's smalls when you treat them!"

"Ewww no! Usually too busy trying to stop someone from bleeding out or something then to worry about what trolleys they've got on!"

"Exactly! Your family certainly like their sayings don't they!"

"Only way they can sound vaguely clever against you know it alls!"

They lulled into a peaceful quiet space once again, trying to ignore the passing of time and the few hours they had left. Charles busied himself tidying away their things as Molly returned to the window. It was just starting to snow, a dusting of flakes beginning to settle on car roof tops. Molly hadn't quite had a white Christmas but a New Year one was near enough.

"I've dug out that marmalade Molls, we'll stick it in your Bergen tomorrow"

"Look it's snowing Charles-a white New Year!"

He came up behind her, arms circling her waist. "See you can't say that this place isn't magical now can you"

"It is truly, I should never have doubted you when you mentioned it"

"I just hope we don't get too much, it might affect our journey timings tomorrow"

"Trust you to spoil the moment with your forward planning!"

"Ever practical Molls!"

"I wish I didn't have to go. As much as I hate the cold I'd rather stay here and build snowmen with you and Sam"

"It's not long Molly honestly and I'll keep you busy bombarding you with wedding gumph!"

"Ok, anyway you'll be busy at Tidworth, I want to hear all about that"

"See it'll fly by, you watch"

They both sighed, knowing that they were just trying their best to raise each other's spirits.

"Fancy an early night?" said Charles eventually glancing at his watch.

"Do you mean an early night or you know an 'early night'?" replied Molly, turning to face him with a glint in her eye.

"I'm happy with either option, though I do vaguely remember some sort of promise about a bikini modelling preview?!" Charles grinned in reply.

"It's not exactly the weather for it"

"Bet I could warm you up"

"I reckon you could too" she crooned into his ear as she draped her arms on his shoulders.

"Good hands on experience" he replied, slipping his fingers under the hem of her top.

"And practice does make perfect" Molly whispered as his thumbs began tracing her ribcage and the soft skin just below her bra ware, before his mouth sealed over hers, his tongue softly probing.

Her fingers moved slowly on his neck, stroking the fine hairs there, before moving slightly higher to the base of his skull, increasing the pressure to pull him closer. He didn't resist, actively chasing like some sort of game. His hands now at the bottom of her back, circling the smooth patch between the top of her jeans and the bottom of her jumper. He grabbed a handful of her bottom as he deepened the kiss further. Molly groaned into his mouth before having to break away before her lungs burst.

"You trying to eat me alive!" she gasped

"Sorry, I just lose myself with you"

"Maybe we should go upstairs then, before you can't walk up them!" she laughed noting the arrangement of his trousers "unless you want to put on a show for your neighbours?!"

"I don't share sorry"

"Good, I don't fancy sharing you either!"

"Go on then bugger off upstairs. I'd better tamp down this fire a bit then I'll see you up there"

He patted her on the bum before she dreamily disappeared through the door to the stairs.

She was right he thought, as he emptied his mind to try and calm down the situation in his boxers, he'd easily have continued right there and then in full view of anyone walking past. It had only just turned nine and some of the neighbours did like to walk their dogs at this hour.

He prodded the remaining burning logs with a poker, the embers flying up the chimney. He'd forgotten all about the house idea on top of all these wedding plans. Maybe they could just rent somewhere short term, especially as an army job was so changeable and who knows where Molly would go next after this tour. You certainly couldn't say their life was boring!

Satisfied the flames were dying down, he put the poker back and blew out the candles that Molly had thoughtfully placed on the table earlier. He took the stairs two at a time, before sticking his head round the door of the snug to wish his parents good night.

Molly was sat on the bed, staring at her neat bags that Charles had packed for her earlier. Her uniform hung up, smartly pressed and her boots clean and dust free. It was a small gesture but one she was grateful for, she certainly didn't fancy doing it all in a panicked rush tomorrow morning. She did wonder if he ever felt he'd made a mistake resigning his commission. He'd always said that the Army was all he'd ever wanted. Until he met her of course. She had become the catalyst and something she would always feel guilty about. Charles would deny it of course but it would always be there harbouring a small space in the back of her mind.

"You're doing that dangerous thinking again, I can see it"

"Nah, just looking at them" she gestured towards her kit.

"No problem. It was quite therapeutic actually, like old times. I can still pack a mean bag!"

"I appreciate it". Molly stayed put, keeping her eyes cast down.

Charles knelt in front of her, bringing her face up to his height. "Hey stop worrying. Let's just forget about everything for the next twelve hours or so. Just you and me remember"

"Okay" she whispered, eventually catching his eye as she tried to will the inevitable tear spillage away. She closed them and breathed deeply, as he cupped her face with his hands, his forehead pressed against hers in his usual simple loving gesture. She focused on listening to his own calm breaths, her hand moving to his chest where she could feel his steady heartbeat. Oh how she wished she could climb into his skin and stay warm and safe.

She finally felt brave enough to open her eyes again. Their gaze collided, hers of vulnerability, his of tenderness.

"Will you make love to me?" she asked quietly

"You don't need to ask me Molly" Charles replied.

Molly nodded meekly before removing the jumper she had on. She went to take off the next layer before Charles grabbed her hands and stopped her.

"Molly, we've got plenty of time and I don't plan on rushing".

He stroked the pads of his fingers over the backs of her hands, before turning them over and kissing each palm. He sunk further down on his legs and began to remove her socks. Molly tried not to flinch as her feet were particularly ticklish. His feather light touch almost unbearable as he proceeded to kiss each instep and ankle. His hands moved up her trouser legs, caressing and softly squeezing each calf. With all accessible skin touched in some way, he rose back to his knees, commanding an unspoken thought as he motioned to the fastening of her jeans. Molly leaned back onto her elbows allowing him access.

The denim dragged down her thighs and legs painfully slowly, how these movements were so gentle yet erotic. She sighed quietly before the air cooled her skin as her jeans were discarded. Her body jolting as she caught Charles' gaze, his eyes devilishly dark once again looking like he could do unspeakable things to her and she was more than willing for him to do so. His mouth tended to the goose bumps that involuntarily appeared on her skin. Kisses up and down the length of her legs before he nibbled and teased her thighs. His fingers grazed her underwear sending more bolts of electricity to her groin. She stifled a moan before Charles folder over her, swallowing her moans into his mouth.

Her own fingers now needy to touch his skin too, as her body arched up to meet his.

"Off, off" she managed to gasp not knowing whether her scrambled brain was talking about her clothes or his. Charles looked a little confused as first, worried he was hurting her. "Too many clothes" she clarified.

He grinned, determined to carry on his torturous assault on her body. He pulled at her t-shirt, his fingers briefly touching her stomach. He breathed in the scent on her neck as he firmly then clutched at her breasts, her nipples receiving the same electric shocks as other sensitive areas. She cried out as his mouth feasted on the puckered flesh through the flimsy thin fabric and the lace of her bra. His saliva creating damp patches which he then blew out gently causing the small peaks to rise up as if in reply to his challenge.

The t-shirt bunched up further in his fist, his tongue following, trailing down her torso and dipping into her belly button. It felt to Molly as if he were mapping every inch of her before she left tomorrow. She thought he could no longer surprise her in the bedroom department but each time they were together, exploring each other and themselves there was something new. She felt utterly powerless under his onslaught, which always astounded her as she was so fiercely independent and strong. Charles seemed to find the way in and switch off that part of her, practically submissive to his advances.

She was in such a haze, releasing the t-shirt over her head so she was left only in her underwear. The soft texture of his jumper tickling as he held himself above her.

"You're so beautiful, I just want to stare at you sometimes" he confessed, raging a warring battle between his heart and the hard on Molly could now feel pressing against her.

She unsubtly moved her hips against his, his gaze faltering in response. Her green eyes, soft and willing, her mouth warm and pliant. He kissed her again softly at first but as Molly grabbed his head they plundered each other. Charles reached round unfastening the clasp of her bra as she scratched at this clothing, silently demanding they be shed as soon as possible. Charles tugged at the jumper and t-shirt flinging it into some far corner of the room.

Molly stared as his long fingers pulled on the soft leather belt at his waist before unbuttoning his jeans. His erection straining in his boxers as he kicked his trousers aside. Molly licked her lips, her heart still beating wildly as she drank in the sight before her. Charles too similarly seemed breathless as he returned the stare of Molly limp and 90% naked on his bed. Another surge of energy to his balls begged him to resume.

He leaned towards her, his hands drifting lightly over her body before his fingers reached the elastic of her knickers. As with the jeans earlier her skin felt on fire as he inched them slowly off her hips and down her thighs. He knelt once again as they got to her knees and fell unceremoniously to her ankles. He whipped them away, replacing the light airy fabric with a tentative touch, probing gently at the juncture. Wetness now pooled there as he continued to explore before delving in with his tongue. Molly let out a cry as he lapped at her sensitive folds and the bundle of nerves the occasionally teased. He slowly inserted a finger followed by another as he continued to push her towards her release.

Molly came undone quickly with Charles' reward to see the look of pleasure on her face. It was perfect.

He removed his fingers and waited for her to recover, her breaths slowly calming as his dick twitched reminding him that he still needed his own gratification. Molly finally fluttered her eyes open, looking down at Charles through her eyelashes. The hooded stare still remained, but true to his word he appeared to be in no hurry. She sighed flinging her head back into the mattress. Charles took that as a hint that he was free to continue as he stood and pulled of his pants.

Molly scooted herself further up the bed when she felt it dip under Charles' weight. He slowly stalked towards her, she unconsciously opened her legs for him as he drew closer. She could feel his breath on her cheek as he sucked at an earlobe, then the pulse point on her neck. Caresses to her collarbone and still sensitive breasts as she welcomed the pressure of his hips. She could feel his length at her entrance, teasing her before he slowly moved forward.

Charles let out a pent up groan as he got into a rhythm. Molly held on lightly to his arms, murmuring her delight at his slow languorous pace. Their eyes locked once more. Molly seeing his love in those chocolate orbs of his. As much as she loved Charles' resolve to go unhurriedly, she wanted more.

"Charlie" she whispered into his ear as he continued to thrust "take me from behind". He stilled and looked at her.

"You sure?" he gulped.

"Mmm hmm" she nodded as she manoeuvred herself back onto her elbows, making Charles falter as he pulled away and reluctantly withdrew from her warmth.

Molly rolled over and raised herself onto her hands and knees. She felt a little exposed and wondered in the heat of the moment she'd been a little too forward. That was until she felt the heat of Charles behind her. He covered her spine in kisses before gently biting at her shoulder. She cried out as he simultaneously stroked his fingers backwards and forward in her folds to see if she was ready for him.

"Yes Charles" she groaned, giving him the green light.

Charles positioned himself before slowly driving home. He began gently at first letting her get used to him at this different angle before picking up the pace. Their flesh slapped together, Molly's boobs bouncing up and down in response to each thrust. Charles' speed increased, his hands seeking out something to grab onto. He clawed at her hips, pumping firmly. Molly was feverish, feeling Charles at her core deeper than ever before, nudging and teasing that magic g-spot she'd read about in her magazines but never experienced. She gripped on tighter to the duvet cover as the waves coiled within.

"I'm close" she whimpered, her head falling between her shoulders as she began to tire.

Charles continued his momentum, feeling her walls tighten around him. He reached under and brushed her clitoris until she could take no more and she hit her peak once again. Her breathy moans and gasps persisted as he slumped over her. His chest sticking to the sweat adorning her skin, grabbing hold of her breasts to complete his own release.

"Fuck Molly", he shuddered into her ear, their fingers now intertwined as they rode out the last ripples and spasms.

Erratic breaths and heartbeats combined until Molly began to tremble as her muscles began to ache. Charles sensing her discomfort allowed her collapse onto the pillows before he re-arranged the duvet and scooped her underneath and against him.

They lay in silence for a little while until one of them finally had the energy to speak.

"Well that was…." began Charles

"Interesting" replied Molly

"Interesting?" laughed Charles

"Don't get me wrong that was amazing, honestly. I'm shattered but I reckon I could ace my next lot of push ups!"

"Are you comparing that to a PT session?!"

"Burns the calories doesn't it! Much more enjoyable I grant you. I don't reckon much exercise would get done if everyone was starkers!"

"Oh don't! Last image I need to see is a platoon's skinny arses bobbing up and down!"

"Me neither-well maybe yours"

"Yeah ok-yours is the exception too"

The quiet resumed and although it was still early, now sated they were feeling very drowsy.

"I hope your mum and dad didn't hear anything" yawned Molly

"Who cares if they did?!"

"Me! I've got to see them in the morning"

"They won't care they'll remember what it was like"

"What love's young dream?!"

"Yeah it's special when you find it. You've got to keep hold of it and let nothing get in the way"

"You and your romantic words again"

"Only because I love you"

"I love you too-more than any words I can say anyway"

"Wait until you have to write your vows!"

"Oh bollocks, can't I just do the bog standard ones?"

"Course you can-I'm just giving you an idea"

"No more ideas before sleep. Maybe I'll think about it while I'm away"

"Ok you do that"

"Give me something to do in those quiet moments for the next three months!"

"Exactly, it'll keep you busy until you come back and we can have a repeat performance" he winked

"Promises, promises" she laughed as she snuggled into his chest

"Well if you're a clever girl and get a good night's sleep, I might give you a surprise early morning PT session instead!" he laughed in return as he traced his fingers on her shoulder.

"Yes Sir!" Molly replied before she closed her eyes and sighed with the most enormous grin on her face.