I do not think there is an apology sufficient enough for the extraordinarily long time it has taken for me to post an update. I have found being a working Mum in the middle of a pandemic rather exhausting. I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist and I knew that I needed this chapter to reflect the best in me. I promise that I will finish this story. For all of the readers who had stuck with me and did not lose hope, I owe you a tremendous thank you.
Chapter 21
December 2017
Southern Provence
Sierra Leone
"Is it really necessary to watch me take a piss, Captain McClyde?" Dawes griped, as she attended to her personal needs.
"As much as I hate to disappoint you, Dawes, I have no interest in staring at your bare arse. However, it's my job to protect you, and you should know by now that I take my job very seriously. I also seem to recall telling you that my name is Bones. So, you can drop the Captain McClyde crap," I admonished.
"But you're the boss, Sir," Dawes objected.
"Consider it an order."
"Yes, Sir," she shrugged in response.
"While you're at it, you can knock it off with the 'Sir' nonsense as well," I added. Over the course of the past three days, I had started to develop real a sense of admiration towards Dawes. She was tougher and far more intelligent than I'd anticipated, and I admired her resilience.
-X-
"How did you enjoy snake à la Bones?" I attempted to lighten the mood moments later. Earlier in the day, I had spotted a Gaboon Viper snake and had decided that it would make an excellent meal. Dawes had thought I'd lost the plot when I'd reached out and grabbed the 1.5-meter snake by its neck, before proceeding to kill it by slamming it against a tree trunk.
Weighing in at 1 stone, the highly venomous snake provided us with much needed protein. Fortunately, I'd spent enough time in the jungle, throughout my tenure in the SAS, to know how to turn a poisonous snake into a meal that was safe for consumption.
"Honestly?" Dawes looked at me with a fair degree of scepticism.
"I wouldn't ask unless I wanted the honest to goodness truth. So, you can spare me a load of cobblers, Dawes."
"If you want my honest opinion, I'm not entirely sure it was Michelin Star quality, but it didn't give me the shits like I'd anticipated," Dawes offered with candour.
"I'll take that as I compliment," I smirked, secretly laughing inside at her assessment. None of my troopers would've had the balls to respond with such frankness.
-X-
"Do you have a nickname, Dawes?" I asked as we continued our trek through the jungle.
"It's Dawesey," she revealed with a tentative smile. Perhaps I was finally penetrating her shell.
"Easy enough," I nodded before looking down at my watch to check our coordinates. In just another click we would be approaching the Moa River, which would represent the final and most treacherous phase of our journey.
"What does your kettle show, Boss?" Dawes questioned. "It looks to me like we are still in the back of beyond."
"Are you referring to my watch?" I rolled my eyes at Dawes's Cockney rhyming slang.
"Sorry, Boss. I still find myself defaulting to my Cockney roots in stressful situations."
"Here's a question for you, Dawesey."
"Yes, Boss?"
"What would I call someone who is deaf in cockney rhyming slang?" I was seriously annoyed with her refusal to call me 'Bones'.
"If you were going to call someone 'deaf' you would tell them they are a bit mutton."
"And are you, Dawesey?" I drawled.
"Am I what, Boss?" Dawes looked back at me with confusion.
"A bit mutton?"
"Not that I am aware of, Boss."
"I beg to differ, Dawesey. It would seem that being a bit mutton would be the only logical explanation for not calling me Bones. Now unless, you want me to write your short arse up on a charge, I suggest you start calling me Bones. Not Captain McClyde, not Sir, and least of all, not Boss. Am I clear?"
"Y- yes," Dawes stammered with embarrassment.
"Yes, what?" I challenged.
"Yes, Bones," she blushed.
"See, that wasn't so difficult, now, was it, Dawesey?" I smirked, secretly pleased that Dawes had finally relented and had called me 'Bones'.
-X-
Finally, we had arrived at the banks of the Moa River, which upon crossing, would take us away from the jungle canopy and into an area of grasslands where we would finally rendezvous with our chopper at a planned extraction point.
"B-Bones?" I noticed Dawes's complexion turn ghostly pale as she studied the river and its rapidly moving current. "Are we going to cross that?" she pointed to the river.
"Yes," I confirmed. "Consider it our ticket out of here."
"Is it?" Dawes looked troubled by this revelation.
"There is a chopper waiting for us on the other side. Unfortunately, due to the dense jungle canopy, it was the only place we identified to do a clean extraction without getting the locals involved."
"Why didn't you want the locals involved?" Dawes gave me a perplexed look.
"Let's just say that I am fairly certain that your abduction was an inside job. It would seem that one of my peers in the Sierra Leone Army is bent and has secretly been working for the cartel."
"O-oh."
"It's why I thought it best, once we had retrieved you from the cartel's hide-out, that we give the Sierra Leone Army the slip and take the scenic route out of here."
"Which is why we've spent three days in the back of beyond," Dawes surmised.
"Precisely," Dawes had once again confirmed that she was anything but dim.
"Bones?"
"What now, Dawesey?"
"I-I umm. I'm not sure I can…"
"Look Dawesey, I know you're pegged out. The last thing I am expecting is for you to cross the river by yourself."
"You're not?" Dawes looked taken aback by my disclosure.
"Of course not. This is where my handy dandy training with The Regiment comes into play," I gave Dawes a confident smirk. "Leave getting across the river to me."
"Are you sure you can get me across it?" Dawes seemed to doubt my abilities.
"I've gotten you this, far haven't I?" I challenged.
"Are you sure?" she questioned, with a voice full of trepidation. "The current looks very strong and the water seems quite deep."
"You honestly don't think we've come this far for me cock it up now, do you?"
"N-no, it's just that I'm scared."
"Don't be, Dawesey," I reached out and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I'm not about to let anything happen to you."
"Promise?" Dawes looked at me with fear in her eyes.
"You're safe with me, Dawes. I know it's hard, but you need to trust me, and trust that there is no way in hell I am going to let anything happen to you. So how about we say farewell to this hellhole and get you back to Brum where you belong?"
"All right," Dawes nodded bravely.
"You won't regret this, Dawes," I promised, as I vowed to myself that I would do everything in my power to prevent this incredibly brave woman from being hurt again.
Mid-September 2019
The Savoy Hotel
London
United Kingdom
Upon arrival at The Savoy Hotel, Bones and I were escorted to the Lancaster Ballroom, which was one of the most glamorous and historic ballrooms in all of London.
The room was filled with forty round tables of ten, a stage for presentations, and a dance floor. Each table featured silver tiffany chairs with white cushions, white Jacquard tablecloths, and stunning crystal pedestal vases filled with red and white roses, royal blue hydrangeas, and red and white amaryllises in honour of Her Majesty's Armed Forces. The tables were set with white, platinum banded, fine bone china and were accompanied by crystal stemware, and silver-plated flatware.
I couldn't help but think back to my first regimental dinner with the Black Rats and how nervous I'd been that I would embarrass Charles by not having a clue as to which fork to use. Fortunately, I'd had the good sense to ask Jacqueline to teach me the finer points of etiquette and modern matters. Jacqueline had delighted in being my teacher and I had greatly benefitted from her expert tutelage. While Charles had never criticized my lack of social graces, I knew that he'd secretly been pleased that I had sought support from his mum.
Now, as I took in the virtual fashion parade before me, I could not help but feel relieved that Bones has insisted in splashing out on my gown. While I was by no means a fashionista, I couldn't help but notice that the ballroom was chocka with posh society types. I suspected that I was not the only woman dressed in Alexandra McQueen, and that other British haute couture designers such as Burberry, Jenny Packham, Stella McCartney, and Victoria Beckham were also well represented tonight.
I immediately spotted Melissa standing next to Bone's brother Olly. She was wearing a gold gown featuring tulle layers atop a V-neck silhouette, a beaded belt sitting just above her waist, and a floor-sweeping skirt. It suited her enviable figure. Standing a short distance from her, were Bones's parents who were deep in conversation with another couple.
Victoria looked absolutely stunning. While I hadn't asked which designer, she planned to wear, it was clear that her gown must have cost a bomb and had been custom made for her. It was a black, long-sleeved, silk gown with colourful hand sewn flowers and butterflies adorning it. It was the epitome of unbridled elegance, and I suspected that Arthur would be the envy of several men tonight.
"I'm surprised Dad didn't ask me to bring my UCIW," Bones murmured as he stared at his parents.
"Why would he want you to bring your weapon?" I chuckled, referring to the Ultra Compact Individual Weapon Bones used in The Regiment.
"I reckon, Mum has about sixty carats dangling from her ears," Bones rolled his eyes, referring to the multi-coloured diamond earrings which expertly displayed a multitude of cuts and hues that served to complement her gown.
"Blimey." I could not even imagine the price tag associated with sixty carats.
"Dad mentioned he was commissioning new earrings for Mum from Graff," he referred to the famous British jeweller, "but I failed to realise he had this in mind," Bones almost seemed puzzled.
"Perhaps your dad is proud of the work she has performed on behalf of The Black Stork Charity," I offered.
"Perhaps," Bones did not seem entirely convinced.
-X-
Entering the ballroom with Andrew, I found myself scanning the room in search of Molly. She was the only thing that mattered tonight. My speech didn't hold a candle to her. This would be my first time seeing her since Andrew's passing out, and I needed to make every moment count.
It wasn't long before my eyes zeroed in on her. To say Molly looked absolutely stunning was an understatement. Her halter-neck gown fit her perfectly and showcased her spectacular figure.
I couldn't help but wonder what she must have looked like on our wedding day. While she had insisted on keeping her wedding gown a secret, I had visions of her wearing a beautiful A-line gown with long sleeves, a natural waist, and ivory and crystal beading throughout. I could picture her wearing her hair in loose curls as she beamed up at me with the most adoring smile in the world.
It sickened me to think that my complete and utter selfishness and stupidity had deprived me of that opportunity. Now, I was faced with the reality that the incredible woman who should have been on my arm tonight as my wife, was on the arm of my nemesis, and I only had myself to blame.
"Molly looks incredible," Andrew observed, as he followed my gaze.
"Indeed."
"Could the bastard have any more gongs?" Andrew took in the array of medals on Bones's dress jacket. "I'm surprised he hasn't dislocated his shoulder from the sheer weight of them."
"He certainly thinks he is the 'big I am'," I observed. It irked me to see his accomplishments on full display. Especially, when my career had gone to the dogs. While Bones was on track for a promotion to Major, I, thanks to my father and Beck, was lucky to still have my commission. I had cocked-up my career in such a spectacular fashion, that it was unlikely that I would ever be promoted beyond Captain. It was another reason I resented my father and Beck for conscripting me into speaking tonight. While I knew they were well intentioned, I was also a realist, and knew that no matter how much I demonstrated to the Army's top brass that I had redeemed myself, it was unlikely to make a difference.
"Well, I have all the faith in the world, that you will show the scumbag, what is what, before the night is out, Charlie," Andrew assured.
"Thank you, Andrew. I'm glad that at least one person has my back."
-X-
Soon, Bones and I were seated with Max and Jack, at the table that Jack had generously sponsored for the evening. Having spent months at Headley Court after injuring his back in Iraq during Operation Telic, he was a proud patron of The Black Stork Charity.
Jack was dressed in a Cypress green mess jacket, with a grey waistcoat and lapels, which confirmed my suspicion that he was part of the Intelligence Corps or 'Green Slime' as we liked to call them in the Army. Max looked extremely debonair in a dark navy dinner suit, which knowing, Max, had been custom made for tonight's event by Giles.
Joining us at our table, were Major Callum Moore and his wife Jemima. Callum was with the 18 Signal Regiment, which was part of the Royal Corps of Signals, or 'Royal Signals', and was based at Stirling Lines. Bones and Jack had known Callum since their early days at Stirling Lines with The Regiment. It turned out that they had bonded over their love of football and motorcycles. It also helped that Callum was an ardent Villain. Callum and Jemima had been married for ten years, and had two children. When presented with the opportunity to spend a weekend in London away from their children, they had gladly accepted it.
In addition to Callum and Jemima, were Captain Lachlan Brown and his girlfriend Evelyn. Lachlan and Evelyn were based at Catterick. I nearly gave a visible cringe when Jack indicated that Lachlan was with the Army's Recruiting and Initial Training Command and was in charge of the Combat Infantry Course. The last thing I needed was for my brother Jake to cock-up spectacularly in front of one of Jack's mates. There was no way in hell I was going to mention that Jake would be one of his recruits next month.
Rounding out our table was Lieutenant Trevor Williams and his husband, Rhys. Trevor was also with the Green Slime and was based at the MoD with Jack. Jack had initially mentored Trevor when he had first attended Sandhurst as part of the British Army's LGBT+ initiative and had been impressed by his intelligence, which ultimately led to Trevor joining the Green Slime.
-X-
Max, being the gregarious co-host that he was, knew that Rhys, Evelyn, and Jemima would likely be bored to tears while Bones, Jack, Cullum, Lachlan, and Trevor talked shop, and had invited the four of us to the Parlour Room, which was located directly adjacent to the Lancaster Ballroom for pre-dinner drinks. I'd welcomed the opportunity to escape, as I had no desire to bump into Charles or his family.
It turned out that Evelyn was a nurse with the NHS, which fostered a natural connection between us. Rhys was completing post graduate studies at Kings College London in Mathematics, while Jemima was a primary school teacher in Hereford.
Max quickly engaged us in conversation and I soon found myself enjoying the company I was in, along with a glass of Chardonnay.
-X-
Soon, it was time for us to re-join our table as dinner was due to be served momentarily, which would mark the beginning of the evening's festivities.
"Chin up," Max whispered to me encouragingly as he escorted me back into the Lancaster Ballroom.
"Thanks, mate," I gave Max a grateful smile, as I consciously kept my gaze focused on Bones, who was speaking animatedly to Callum and Jack.
"Molly!" I suddenly looked up to see Emily approach me with a handsome Second Lieutenant in tow, whom I presumed to be her boyfriend, Matt.
"Hi Emily," I gave Charles's sister a polite greeting as I felt myself stiffening with discomfort. "You look lovely." She was dressed in a white crepe, off-the-shoulder, short sleeved, column gown that featured a tastefully embellished side slit. She had pulled back her long, dark brown hair into an elegant twist and wore a pearl necklace with matching earrings. Emily was the perfect foil for her Officer boyfriend.
"I've been looking for your everywhere," Emily chastised. "I have been dying for you to meet Matt."
"Would it be previous on my part to assume that this is Matt?" I gave a forced laugh.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Molly," Matt politely held out his hand. "Emily has told me so much about you and I know she considers you to be the sister she never had."
"It's nice to meet you, Matt. I hope you are enjoying your new Regiment," I attempted to make polite conversation.
"It has taken some adjusting, but Charles and Lieutenant General James have been full of helpful advice," he replied.
"Right," I gave a tight smile, as I forced myself to contain an eyeroll. Charles was the last person the poor bloke should be accepting advice from.
"Speaking of my parents, have you spoken to them yet?" Emily questioned.
"No, but I'm sure there will be time for that later," I assured. While I would love nothing more than to greet Jacqueline, I had no desire to speak with Edward or Andrew, not after the stunt they had pulled with Georgie. As for Charles, there was no way in hell I was going to give the bastard the time of day.
-X-
"I see the ubiquitous Emily James was trying to get her claws into you," Bones murmured as he pulled out my chair for me upon my return to the table.
"Unfortunately for her, I didn't take the bait."
"Of course not. You would think the girl would realise by now that you run circles around her," Bones scoffed.
"Emily cannot help the fact that she worships her older brother. He's doted on her, her entire life."
"Well, the sooner she wakes up to the fact that the brother she idolizes has feet of clay, the better."
"Somehow I don't see that ever happening," I sighed. I could only hope that for Emily's sake, she would never have reason to see her brother's true colours.
-X-
Dinner started with the The Black Stork Charity's Chairman of the Board of Trustee's extending a warm welcome to the evening's attendees, followed by an overview of the event. From there, the Charity's Chief Executive provided an insightful speech about the history of the Charity and its mission.
"What exactly is your mum's role with The Black Stork Charity?" I leaned over to ask Bones as we ate our starter which consisted of seared Orkney Island scallops paired with butternut squash, toasted hazelnuts and a pumpkin seed emulsion.
"She's a Trustee," Bones responded.
"Will she be speaking tonight?"
"No, she much prefers to be on the organisational side of things."
Unexpectedly, out of nowhere, I felt the hair on the back of my neck stiffen, prompting me to straighten in my chair and peer across the room to find my eyes held captive by a familiar pair of chocolate-coloured eyes.
"The fucker has been staring at you all night," Bones muttered as I quickly averted my gaze and stared down at my plate. "If we were anywhere else, I would walk over to his table and beat the living daylights out of him."
"Bones, leave him be, he's not worth it," I squeezed Bones's arm in admonishment.
-X-
Our main course consisted of Beef Wellington paired with Royal Chantenay carrots, petit pois, and a Madeira jus sauce. The meat was tender and succulent and the sauce was delicious. During our main course we had the privilege to hear an inspiring speech, from Major Kate Philp, a former Artillery Officer who was the first British female solider to lose a limb in combat. While in Afghan in 2008, Major Philp lost her leg below the knee, as the result of her Warrior armoured vehicle running over a Taliban IED. Major Philp spoke of the gruelling sixteen months she spent rehabilitating her leg at Headley Court and how it had inspired her to become a Trustee with The Black Stork Charity.
"Major Philp is incredible," Jack remarked at the conclusion of her speech. "I had the opportunity to meet her when I was at Headley Court recovering from my back injury in 2011. She was rehabbing from a surgical procedure. I remember feeling very down because I knew my career with The Regiment was effectively over. She along, with a certain knobhead at this table," Jack smirked at Bones, "gave me the kick up the arse and encouragement I needed to stick with the Army."
"How long were you at Headley Court?" Evelyn inquired.
"On and off for a about a year," Jack replied. "I fractured multiple vertebrae in my back during my final tour in Iraq and required several surgeries to repair the damage."
"Was it from an IED?" Rhys asked.
"No," Jack did not elaborate further.
While I was not entirely certain as to what had happened to Jack in Iraq, it was clear from his body language he did not wish to elaborate. I made a mental note to ask Bones about it later.
-X-
"It is with distinct pleasure that I am here tonight to introduce Captain James with the 4th Infantry Brigade and Headquarters North East, or as it is better known in the Army, The Black Rats. Prior to beginning his commission in the Army, Captain James received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oxford in English Language and Literature. While attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Captain James was awarded the Sword of Honour, which is awarded to the best overall British Army Officer Cadet in each course.
During his tenure with the Black Rats, Captain James completed four tours in conjunction with Operation Herrick in Afghanistan. At the conclusion of his third tour, Captain James was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for an act of gallantry during an active operation against the enemy. At the conclusion of his fourth tour in Afghanistan, Captain James sustained life threatening injuries during a joint operation with the United States Army against the Taliban.
After completing his rehabilitation at Headley Court, Captain James returned to his regiment, where he led humanitarian relief missions in Kenya and Nepal before being deployed to Nigeria to support the Nigerian Army in its fight against Boko Haram.
Captain James is currently on a secondment with NATO's Allied Command Operations, and is here tonight to speak about his experiences at Headley Court. Without further ado, it is an honour to welcome Captain James to the stage."
It took everything in my power to maintain my composure during Colonel Beck's introduction. I nearly cringed when he brought up the Sword of Honour. Then there was the fact that Beck conveniently omitted the mission in Afghanistan which had resulted in Elvis's death, the training exercise in Belize that had gone balls-up, and last but not least, Charles's Bangladeshi misadventures with Lane.
I could only imagine what Bones was thinking right now. As much as Bones loathed Charles and had been angry with him earlier, the one thing I could count on was for him to maintain his composure and to remain completely impassive for the duration of Charles's speech. It was Bones's way, and I respected him for it.
While I wanted nothing more than to leg it, I knew that it would only serve to fuel gossip and speculation. I owed it, not only to myself, but also to Bones, to show everyone in the room that I had enough self-respect to hold my head high while my deplorable ex-fiancé had his moment in the spotlight.
-X-
Taking the stage, I knew it was imperative that I used the opportunity to send a few key messages to Molly. The woman I loved was no coward, and I knew that even if Molly wanted flee the room, she would force herself to endure my speech all while loathing the very sight of me.
"Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is an honour to speak on behalf of The Black Stork Charity this evening," I began as my eyes zeroed in on Molly. "Since 2011, The Black Stork Charity has enabled the provision of clinical rehabilitation services to members of the Armed Forces, first at Headley Court, and more recently at Stanford Hall.
In 2012, I was at the conclusion of my fourth tour in Afghanistan, when I was shot in the stomach and right leg. For many, such injuries would be career ending, or at the very least, career limiting. Yet, I was incredibly fortunate to have a magnificent Combat Medical Technician who risked her life to save me while we were under attack from Taliban insurgents. Without her swift intervention, along with that of the Medical Evacuation Regiment, and the outstanding medical skills demonstrated by the doctors and nurses at both Camp Bastion and the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine in Birmingham, I would not be standing before you tonight.
Upon starting my rehabilitation at Headley Court, I found myself at a cross-roads for the first time in my life. I had completed four tours in Afghanistan, had a young son, and faced the prospect of never recovering full mobility in my leg. I considered requesting a medical discharge and resigning my commission, but the multi-disciplinary team at Headley Court, along with my girlfriend and father, pushed me to realise that I had more to give to the Army and motivated me to reach my full potential."
-X-
I nearly flinched when Charles referred to me not once but twice. He had no right to drop me into his speech, especially when there were those in the room who knew that I was the girlfriend he had so callously jilted.
As if sensing my blood was about to boil over, Bones surreptitiously reached for my hand under the table and gave it a comforting squeeze to help steady my emotions.
-X-
"The Rehabilitation team at Headley Court pushed me every day. I'm not going to lie, many days were physically brutal, but I developed a real trust for my team and with their encouragement along with additional encouragement from my family, girlfriend, and friends, I began to realise that I was incredibly fortunate to be in a position in which a full recovery was achievable.
When I concluded my rehabilitation at Headley Court, I felt tremendous gratitude for everything the professionals there had done for me, and felt optimistic about my future. I was looking
forward to doing more humanitarian work with the Army, wanted to marry the woman who had become the love of my life, and to spend more time with my young son. None of this would have been possible, had it not been for my time at Headley Court.
I was shocked to find myself unexpectedly back at Headley Court three years later. I had been leading a training exercise in Belize, when I accidentally impaled my leg on a boar trap in the middle of the jungle. This was the same leg that had been previously injured in Afghanistan. While my medic did her best, I had gone into septic shock by the time we were rescued and nearly lost my leg."
-X-
I wasn't sure I wanted to hear the tissue of lies that I was certain Charles planned to share with the audience next. Hearing him say that I was the love of his life and that he had wanted to marry me filled my stomach with collywobbles. Had I been the love of his life? Did the man who'd left Headley Court so full of hope even exist? Had it truly been Elvis's death that had him sent him headfirst into a downward spiral and into Georgie's arms? I no longer knew what to believe. Yet, did it matter? I certainly could never trust Charles again, not after he had lied to me and betrayed me. Then there was Bones. After Charles, I had honestly never expected to fall in love again, but Bones, being the man, he was, had found his way into my heart.
-X-
"My second time at Headley Court was far more challenging than my first. I was frustrated beyond belief that a simple mistake had caused me to make a botch job out of my leg. The prospect of rehabilitating my leg for the second time was daunting and there were many days when I questioned whether it was worth the effort and pain to have full use of my leg again. Once again, my Rehabilitation team at Headley Court did an exemplary job in motivating me to complete my rehabilitation. Without their motivation and skill, I would not have made a full recovery and would not have been able to re-join my regiment on another humanitarian mission in Bangladesh.
The work that the DNRC does on behalf of the British Armed forces plays a vital role in providing clinical rehabilitation services that allow those who have been injured to return to optimum physical function. I know that, I, along with the men and women of the British Armed forces, who have been the fortunate recipients of the DNRC's best in class treatment are profoundly grateful for your support of The Black Stork Charity. I would also like to use this opportunity to thank my family and Molly, for the incredible support they provided to me throughout my recovery process."
-X-
It took every bit of control that I possessed not to run out of the ballroom as the audience broke into applause at the end of Charles's speech. How dare the bastard thank me after everything he had done? I couldn't help but gaze at Bones as he and Jack exchanged glacial expressions while politely clapping. I could feel the rage radiating off of Bones. Not only had Charles's speech been humiliating for me, it had also been humiliating for him. The last thing Bones deserved was to be openly disrespected in front of the Army's top brass especially after he had saved Charles's life not once, but twice.
-X-
"Well done, Son," my father warmly acknowledged upon my return to my family's table. "You could not have done a finer job."
"Thank you, Father."
"Your speech went down a bomb, Charlie," Andrew patted me on the back with pride as Emily beamed at me from across the table.
"While I tend to agree with your father, was it really necessary to mention Molly?" my mum whispered as she stood and kissed me on the cheek.
"I meant every word I said."
"I know you did, Charles, but I am sure you have left her feeling embarrassed. Then there is Bones. They are a couple, and it was not a respectful way to treat the man who saved your life," Mum chided.
-X-
"I thought I might find you here," Bones approached me from behind as I stood on a terrace overlooking the River Thames. As soon as the final speaker had concluded her speech, I had fled the table under the pretext of needing to use the loo. After enduring Charles's dreadful speech, and the humiliation that accompanied it, I needed a few moments on my own to compose myself.
"You know me well," I gave Bones a timid smile as he came to stand beside me.
"I also know that you are likely feeling a bit like you are at sixes and sevens," Bones, gently stroked my cheek.
"How could he say all of that tosh about me?"
"Because in his own twisted way, he loves you," Bones offered in a matter-of-fact tone.
"He's got a bloody odd way of showing it."
"As much as I despise James, and would have liked nothing more than to shut his cakehole during that farce of a speech, a small part of me almost felt sorry for the sad bastard. But then I remembered that this is James, we are dealing with, and he deserves everything he gets. His speech was nothing more than an arrogant and miscalculated attempt to gain your attention and make me look wet. James should know by now that he can test my mettle all he wants; I'll always be a hell of a lot tougher than him. I also happen to be proud as hell to have you as my girlfriend. So, he can openly pine for you all he wants, it's not going to change the fact that you're my girl," Bones avowed, before pulling me close to cement his declaration with a searing kiss.
-X-
"I suspect if we don't re-join our table, Max is likely to send out a search party for us," Bones drawled a few minutes later.
"We cannot have that, now can we?" I gave a knowing chuckle. "Would you mind if I stay out here a few minutes longer by myself?"
"You can stay out here as long as you like, but only on one condition," Bones smirked.
"And that is?"
"When you return, I expect you to hold your head up high and join me on the dance floor. What better way to show the curtain twitchers and the gossips that we don't give damn about James?"
"You dance?" I couldn't help but look at Bones with great scepticism. It was hard to picture a tough nut like Bones gracefully waltzing his way across the dance floor. "Does this have anything to do with your prowess as a Four-Star Manwhore?"
"No. Mum insisted Ollie and I learn a few basic steps," Bones rolled his eyes. "I can do a proficient Foxtrot, but am woefully lacking when it comes to any other type of dancing."
"You do realise that one day you'll have to tell me how a man who hates dancing and was total crap at the beginning of Operation Bellend, developed the skills to be an accomplished manwhore."
"Someday," Bones agreed, before kissing me on the cheek and leaving me to my thoughts.
-X-
I was about to leave, when I looked over to see Victoria walk out onto the terrace. I was surprised to see Edward following, closely behind her. Wanting to avoid an awkward encounter with Edward, I quickly hid behind a large potted plant and decided to wait him out.
"Victoria," Edward greeted Bones's mother with a level of familiarity that surprised me.
"Edward," Victoria responded in an impatient tone.
"You look utterly ravishing tonight," his compliment caused my eyebrows to raise in surprise. There was something almost inappropriate in the way Edward was gazing at Bones's mum.
"Shouldn't you be saving your compliments for your wife?" Victoria chided in disgust, causing me to wonder just what was between the two.
"I see Tewkesbury is still treating you well," Edward reached for one of Victoria's earrings.
"Leave Arthur out of this," Victoria smacked Edward's hand out of the way, causing me to wonder why Edward had referred to Arthur as Tewkesbury and why Victoria seemed to openly dislike Edward.
"I wanted to thank you for permitting Charles to speak tonight."
"You honestly think I permitted it? It was a bit like Hobson's Choice, if you ask me. It wasn't like I could refuse the son of the esteemed Lieutenant General James. Not when Beck made it clear that no other Army speakers would be on offer unless I cooperated. You know I hate being bamboozled, Edward, especially by you. So, rather than thanking me, why don't you do us both a favour and tell me what your real agenda is?"
"My true agenda?"
"Don't try to pull the wool over my eyes, Edward. You always have a bloody agenda."
"You would think after forty years, I would finally accept the fact that you are the only person who sees right through me."
"Well?" Victoria prompted as I found myself thinking back to the story Victoria had told me about her first love. Could it be that the man in question had been Edward? I couldn't even begin to contemplate the ramifications of such a thing.
"What Charles failed to mention in his speech tonight, is that a few months prior to travelling to Belize, he had been in Afghanistan."
"What does that have to do with any of this?" Victoria prompted with great impatience.
"He went to Afghanistan to support the SAS with an operation that was being led by his best friend. You know that I cannot go into the exact details, but due to faulty intelligence, and poor judgement on the part of my son, his medic, and his friend, the operation was a tremendous failure and resulted in his friend's death."
"I'm sorry to hear that, Edward. It must have been a terrible loss for Charles."
"It was," Edward acknowledged. "It also changed my son profoundly."
"I take it this is why Colonel Beck hinted that your son might have experience with PTSD?"
"Yes," Edward nodded. "You would think I, of all people, would have recognized what was happening to my son, but I didn't. Molly, his fiancé, at the time, was a trained CMT and was in the final year of her nursing program. She recognized what was happening to Charles, but I refused to believe her."
"The same Molly he mentioned in his speech tonight, who also happens to be my son's girlfriend?"
"Yes," Edward confirmed with something almost akin to embarrassment.
"Well, this is certainly a rum do, if I've ever seen one," Victoria remarked, clearly unhappy with the situation.
"Charles and Molly were to have married nearly two years ago, but by the time the wedding arrived Charles had spiralled out of control and…"
"Bones told me that her ex-fiancé jilted her. However, I didn't know that she was engaged to your son. It would seem that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree," Victoria observed with disgust.
"Had I accepted that Charles was struggling with PTSD, I could have prevented him from making the biggest mistake of his life."
"Yet once again your arrogance stopped you from accepting the reality of the situation," Victoria shrewdly observed.
"Yes."
"I'm sorry to hear that Charles has struggled with PTSD and has made some poor decisions in his life. However, I would be remiss in not saying that I found your son to possess the same level of hubris you still possess to this day."
"You think I don't know that?" Edward gave an exasperated sigh.
"Then why foist him off on me?"
"Because you are the only person, I can count on to help him," Edward revealed.
"Are you off your trolley?" Victoria looked absolutely aghast.
"He needs you, Vickie."
"Haven't you sought professional help for him?"
"The best, and he has made an excellent recovery."
"Really?"
"Yes. However, he fails to recognise that if he were to embrace his experience with PTSD and put aside his pride and arrogance, he could be much happier in life, and also do tremendous good in the Army."
"And how exactly do I fit into this picture?"
"He needs a mentor, someone who can push him to see how he can use the trauma he experienced for good. Someone who will not be afraid to put him in his place and give him the push he needs."
"Why on earth do you think I would be interested in mentoring your son? You seem to have forgotten the deplorable manner in which he treated Molly, his inappropriate remarks about her tonight, and the fact that I find you utterly detestable."
"I know that I am responsible for corrupting my son. I also blame myself for what he did to Molly. She is like a daughter to me, and I betrayed her in the worst way possible by refusing to listen to her. Yet, I think that if Charles were to work with you on The Black Stork Charity's initiative in support of PTSD, he could be a true asset, and ultimately become a better person."
"Oh, what a tangled web weave when we first deceive," Victoria scoffed.
"Is this your way of telling me that you do not believe me?"
"I suspect parts of what you've told me are true, but I'm hardly dim. I know you're holding back on me."
"Will you at least consider my proposal?" Edward posed. I noted that he did not deny Victoria's observation that he was being less than forthcoming with her.
"I don't think my son would appreciate me mentoring the man who jilted his girlfriend," Victoria argued.
"I had hoped we could avoid bringing Bones into this discussion."
"What, pray tell, is that supposed to mean?"
"You seem to be forgetting everything I did for Bones at Gordonstoun. I would hate for Tewkesbury to find out your role in it."
"Stop talking out of your arse, Edward. Do you honestly think I'm stupid enough to fall for your threats?"
"Bones would be nothing today if it wasn't for me. I was the one who saved him and set him on the right path. I gave him discipline, purpose, and goals."
"I see you still think you know what's what, when you haven't got a clue," Victoria rolled her eyes. "Do you honestly think I would let you near Bones without Arthur's knowledge?"
"What exactly are you implying?"
"You've always assumed that it was me who reached out to Bones's Principle and House Manager to request your assistance, but I'm sorry to tell you that it wasn't. It was Arthur."
"Tewkesbury?" Edward looked stricken by the revelation.
"That's correct," Arthur suddenly strode out onto the terrace and put his arm around his wife. "It was me."
"Why on earth would you do such a thing?"
"Ever since Bones was a little boy the only thing he ever wanted was to be in the SAS. I was not about to stand by and let him give up on his dream because of what happened to Victoria's brother, and if that meant playing on your feelings for Victoria to ensure he remained focused on his dream, then it was a price I would gladly pay. You also fail realise that even without your guidance, Bones would still possess more discipline, honour, and intelligence than you could ever dream of possessing yourself," Arthur announced. "It also gave me a certain semblance of satisfaction to know that you would have liked nothing more than for Bones to have been your son."
"Come again?" Bones demanded as he stalked onto the balcony, causing his parents and Edward to turn and look at him in surprise.
"Bones!" Victoria looked aghast by her son's appearance. "How long have you been here?"
"Long enough," Bones glared at his parents and Edward.
"Bones, I can assure you, that what you just heard is not…"
"I think I know a song and dance when I see one, Sir," Bones interrupted Edward. "For someone who has insisted for years that my parents were merely casual acquaintances, that you saw now and again at various charitable events, it would seem you haven't been entirely honest with me, Sir."
"Bones, I can assure you, I was only trying…"
"There's no need to make excuses, Sir. I have a feeling that the true nature of your relationship with my parents is about to come out in the wash, whether the lot of you like it or not. However, I have too much respect for The Black Stork Charity to watch the three of you make a pig's ear out of explaining what appears to be a rather storied history, in the midst of such an important fundraising event," Bones declared. "That does not mean you two are off the hook," Bones turned to his parents. "I will expect a full account from you tomorrow."
-X-
"Blimey," I murmured in astonishment once The McClydes, followed by Edward, took their leave and I was once again alone on the balcony.
To say that I was gobsmacked by the fact that Edward, was Victoria's first love was an understatement. It was difficult to reconcile the Edward I knew with the Edward she had described from her time in Cypress. For all intents and purposes, I had always viewed Edward and Jacqueline's marriage to be rock solid and had never doubted their love and commitment towards one another. It was nearly impossible for me to imagine that Edward had been forced to marry Jacqueline and that he had cheated on her during his engagement with Victoria of all people.
Yet, there had been something in his manner with Victoria tonight, that made me suspect that she was telling the truth. There had been an intensity in Edward's eyes, that I had never seen when he looked at Jacqueline. The way he had immediately zeroed in on her earrings was also troubling. Had Bones's father deliberately given them to Jacqueline tonight as a way to goad Edward? If he had, he'd certainly succeeded in getting under Edward's skin.
Then there was the fact that Edward had referred to Bones's father by the name 'Tewkesbury', not once, but at least four times. Why hadn't he called him McClyde? Was Tewkesbury some type of nickname Arthur used?
I was also discomforted by the fact that Edward had chosen, once again, to be heavy handed by essentially forcing Victoria to accept Charles as a speaker. It appeared that Charles had made a less than favourable impression on her, and that was before Victoria had learned of his sordid history with me.
There was also Charles to consider. If what Charles's family and Georgie had told me was true, and he'd truly suffered with a severe bout of PTSD. The nurse in me could not help but feel some degree of compassion for him. No one should ever have to witness his or her best friend die the way Elvis had died. I could see Charles, and his never-ending desire to be the hero, shouldering a disproportionate amount of the blame over Elvis's death. However, it was not an excuse for jilting me. It also bothered me that the entire time he had been away seeking treatment for his PTSD, he hadn't made a single attempt to apologise to me or to offer any type of explanation.
It was understandable that Edward felt guilty about what had happened to his son, and his role in it. However, I couldn't help but feel revulsion at his attempt to bully Victoria into helping Charles. I was proud of her for standing her ground. Hadn't Edward done enough by doing whatever it was he'd done to salvage Charles's Army career? When was he going to realise that Charles needed to learn how to stand on his own two feet and clean up his own messes? While I had been blinded by my love for Charles previously, I was no longer blind, and what I had perceived as confidence, had really been arrogance on Charles's part. An arrogance that had clearly been nurtured by Edward.
I also wondered how Bones was going to react when he found out about the history between his mum and Edward. Knowing Bones as I did, I could only imagine how angry he would be. It also begged the question as to why Edward had agreed to be Bones's mentor, if he had known full well that Bones was Victoria's son? Was there some truth to what Arthur implied? Had Edward done it because he was still in love with Victoria and had saw Bones as the son, he would never have with her? Was this why, when Sam had asked Edward in confidence, what his proudest moment in the Army had been, Edward had responded that it had been when Bones had received the Victoria Cross?
As much as I wanted to re-join Bones in the ballroom, my head was spinning with so many unanswered questions. I was also unsure how I was supposed to pretend that I hadn't overheard the conversation between Bones's parents and Edward. It wasn't my place to tell Bones about Victoria and Edward's past history. Yet it was not something I could easily push aside. I could only hope that Bones's would be too distracted in trying to make heads or tails as to what he had overheard that he wouldn't notice my discomfort around him.
-X-
"Finally," Bones murmured once he led me onto the dance floor shortly after my return to the ballroom.
"You do realise that everyone is staring at us," I couldn't help but blush at the attention we were drawing.
"Let them," Bones smirked, as he started leading me in a surprisingly proficient Foxtrot.
"I have to say, I'm rather impressed, McClyde. You could almost be on Strictly with steps like these," I complimented.
"Are you trying to take the Mickey out of me, Dawesey?"
"Not at all, you're surprisingly light on your feet."
"Mum will be pleased to hear you approve," Bones chuckled.
"Speaking of your parents. Does your father happen to have a nickname?"
"A nickname?" Bones looked puzzled.
"It's just that I swore I heard someone refer to him as Tewkesbury earlier," I explained, hoping that Bones could solve at least one mystery for me.
"May I cut in?" I was stunned to see Edward tap Bones on the shoulder and request to dance with me. While I wanted nothing more than to tell Edward to get stuffed, I knew that Bones and I were between a rock and a hard place. Edward, being Edward, knew that he had us trapped. It was impossible for Bones to refuse Edward in front of the Army's top brass, not when it would mean career suicide for the pair of us. With a resigned sigh, I gave Bones a tight nod to indicate that he had no choice but to comply.
-X-
"I know that I am the last person you would like to speak to tonight," Edward began, as he skilfully took over for Bones and led me across the dance floor.
"What do you want Edward?" I demanded, forcing myself to keep my face free of the revulsion I felt towards him. I was still having trouble processing what I had overheard a short while ago. Then there was the Georgie ambush he had sprung on me. I was still angry at him for what I considered a deep betrayal of the trust and affection I'd held for him previously.
"I know that I have been a bit heavy handed recently, but I need you to understand that there are reasons for the actions that I have taken."
"And those are?" There was little that could justify Edward's actions. Not to mention the fact that I no longer trusted him. I wouldn't put it past the man to think that he could feed me some cock and bull story in an attempt to win back my faith in him.
"While I would like nothing more than to tell you everything right now, I'm afraid this is neither the time, nor the place. That being said, I cannot leave things as they are, which is why I would like to request that you permit Jacqueline and I to visit you soon in Birmingham. There are things you need to know, things that I can longer keep from you."
"If this is about Charles…"
"It's not. Well, not directly," Edward clarified.
"I know in your own twisted manner, you mean well, Edward, but you need to understand that I've moved on from Charles. I'm sorry that he was ill, and it makes me sad that he suffered from PTSD, but I can never forgive him for what he did to me. You and Jacqueline also need to stop blaming yourselves. What happened, happened. Charles can profess to the whole world that he still loves me, but looking back on things, I honestly don't think he ever did. The best thing for all of us is to move on."
"Is that truly what you want, Molly?" Edward gave me a curious look.
"I'm happy, Edward. Truly happy. I have a career that I love, incredible friends, and boyfriend who respects me."
"Do you love him?"
"Bones?"
"Yes," Edward nodded.
"Yes," I smiled proudly. "I do."
"Even if he refuses to give you the fairy tale ending you deserve?"
"White picket fences, babies, and a husband are not for me. I would rather have honesty, integrity, and a partner who knows what's what."
"And Charles?" Edward prompted.
"What about Charles?"
"He's not going to go away. At least not while he thinks he has the slightest chance."
"Why on earth would he think that?"
"Perhaps he has reason to distrust Bones."
"If this is about the bloody Sword again…" I was quickly becoming exasperated with Edward.
"Talk to him, Molly," Edward implored as our song came to an end. "You know it is the right thing to do. If not for your sake, then for his."
"Thank you for the dance, Edward," I wasn't about to agree to his request. "Please give Jacqueline my best," I offered in a tight voice before exiting the dance floor in search of Bones.
-X-
I soon found Bones deep in conversation with Lieutenant General White. Not wanting to interrupt what could be a pivotal discussion related to his promotion, I ventured back out to the balcony for some air. Between Charles's embarrassing speech, learning about Edward and Victoria's ill-fated past, and being confronted by Edward, I was starting to feel like I was all over the shop. I hoped, that once Bones completed his exchange with White, we could make our excuses and depart for the evening.
Lost in my thoughts as I gazed vacantly over the River Thames, I failed to notice that I was no longer alone. It was only when I felt the warmth of his presence and the familiar scent of his cologne, that my body stiffened in revulsion.
"Molly," Charles whispered into my ear from behind me, as he placed both hands on my shoulders.
"Bloody hell, Charles!" I turned around in anger to face my ex-fiancé.
"You look magnificent tonight," he complimented. It was hard to imagine that once, not so very long ago, I would have found him to be the finest looking man in attendance tonight and would have felt like the luckiest girl in the world.
"I think you'll find that flattery will get you nowhere with me."
"It's the truth."
"Save your compliments for Georgie," I scoffed.
"Lane means nothing to me, Molly. I know you don't believe me, but she was a mistake, one that I will regret until my dying day," Charles raked a frustrated hand through his curls.
"I'm not sure what it is you want from me, Charles, but you need to accept that I have moved on with my life. I spent over a year torturing myself over you. Wondering, what was so wrong with me that you would disrespect my judgment, blame my insecurities for your problems, and then betray me in the worst and most humiliating way possible?"
"Molly, it wasn't…" I stepped back with loathing as Charles attempted to reach for my face.
"Don't," I put my hand out to indicate I wasn't finished. "You have no idea what it was like night after night to lay in bed, unable to sleep because I couldn't stop wondering what Georgie had that I didn't. I had worked so hard to better myself, to turn myself into someone you could be proud of to have as your wife, only to be left in complete tatters after you ran off with her. Everything I had worked for and accomplished suddenly meant nothing."
"Molly, you don't know how sorry I am," Charles whispered in a tortured voice.
"You don't get to apologize to me, Charles. You haven't earned the right. Not after what you did to me. I know you went through hell with PTSD, but that doesn't excuse what you did. I remember for a brief moment in Sierra Leone thinking that I would give anything to be secure in your arms again, but then I remembered that fairy tales don't exist, at least not for Molly Dawes. Her Prince Charming wasn't coming to her rescue her because he was too busy fucking his dead best mate's fiancé."
"Had I known…"
"Fuck you, Charles. You're no different than the others in my life who have betrayed me. It's no wonder I nearly gave up all hope of being rescued. Why would the Army deem me worthy enough for rescue when my family, friends, and lastly my fiancé had shown me time and time again that I wasn't worthy of their love, respect, and protection?"
"My God, Molly, how could you ever think such a thing?" Charles looked aghast at my revelation. "You're everything to me."
"You say that, Charles, but I think we both know you don't really mean it. Not after what you did."
"You need to let me explain," Charles implored.
"Why now? It's been almost two years," I argued. "If you truly cared about my feelings you wouldn't have waited until you saw me at Sandhurst to speak to me."
"I wanted to reach out. You wouldn't believe the number of times I picked up my mobile to text you or to ring you, but I stopped myself."
"Why?"
"Because I am a coward," Charles confessed with a pained expression.
"Or is it because you never had any intention of contacting me and the only reason you insist on speaking to me now is because you cannot stand seeing me with Bones," I spat.
"I wondered when you were going to bring him into this," Charles gave an irritated sigh.
"I realise you carry a silly grudge against Bones because you cannot stomach the fact that your father paid more attention to him as a teenager than you, but that is no excuse for trying to interfere in my relationship with him or for disrespecting Bones the way you did tonight. You also seem to forget that he saved your bloody life, not once, but twice I understand."
"I'm sure he loves to brag about it to you."
"Bones isn't a conceited braggart, nor does he give a monkey's arse about you."
"So, Jackie didn't tell you about the Sword, then?"
"Oh, she told me about the Sword, and your delusions about Bones being out for revenge."
"I hate to be the one to tell you this, Molly, but Bones is using you," Charles attempted to reach for my face again.
"That's complete bollocks and you know it!"
"Is it because he saved your life, that you cannot see him for what he is?" Charles wondered in frustration.
"How do you know that he was the one who saved me?"
"It doesn't matter," Charles brushed my question aside.
"I'll assume Edward is the one who told you," I rolled my eyes.
"I realise Bones may have seemed like your knight in shining armour, but I can assure you that he is not who he says he is. Bones only cares about one thing and that is himself."
"No, Charles, you're the one who only cares about himself," I countered. "Bones is the most honourable person I have ever met. He is brave, honest, and has more integrity than you could ever dream of possessing."
"I must say, Molly, I didn't have you pegged as someone who would approve or want to be associated with his title," Charles remarked.
"What title?" I had no idea what Charles was on about now.
"What? Did your paragon of braveness, honesty, and integrity fail to inform you that, Bones McClyde, the honourable SAS Captain he portrays himself to be, is nothing more than a fiction?"
"If this is another one of your bloody revenge filled delusions," I warned as I felt my insides churn with anxiety. I couldn't help but feel that once again my life was too good to be true and that Charles was about to pull the rug out from under me.
"I'm sorry to tell you, it's not Molly. It gives me absolutely no pleasure in telling you this, but someone needs to tell you the truth, and I love you too much to see you hurt again because of me."
"Spare me the altruism, Charles, and just say whatever it is you have to say," I demanded in frustration.
"Bones McClyde is a legend, Molly. He does not exist."
"What do you mean he does not exist?"
"I think you will find there is no record of a Captain Robert McClyde having ever existed outside of the Army."
"Of course, there, isn't," I rolled my eyes in exasperation. "His first name is not Robert. It's his middle name," I corrected.
"There's also no record of a Captain Alexander Robert McClyde having existed outside of the Army."
"What is that supposed to mean?" I challenged.
"It turns out that the most honourable person you know, has been lying to you. His name is not Alexander Robert McClyde, it's…"
"Alexander Robert McClyde Blackwood Reed, The Right Honourable Viscount Hardwicke," Bones revealed in a murderous voice as he stormed onto the balcony.
"I-I don't…" I began stammer as I stared at Bones in complete shock.
"Are you done here, James?" Bones demanded in fury as he reached for Charles's shirt collar. "If not, it would give me the utmost pleasure to lob you off of this balcony and into the Thames," he warned with pure malice.
"You honestly didn't think you could get away with keeping the fact that your father is the esteemed Earl of Tewkesbury a secret, did you?"
"Leave my father out of this, knobhead," Bones warned.
"Or that you could take Molly from me as part of your twisted desire for revenge?"
"I think you'll find that Molly doesn't belong to anyone," I fumed at both men.
"As for you James, you seem to be under the mistaken impression that I have spent the past fourteen years with a burning need for revenge. I hate to break it to you, James, while I may find you completely and utterly loathsome and an absolute disgrace to your uniform, I have little interest in revenge. You may find that hard to believe. However, it didn't take me long after my initial anger over the Sword, to realise that one day your hubris would be your ultimate downfall. Rather than waste time seeking revenge, all I had to do was wait for you to destroy your career all on your own. It was really no different than watching the recklessness that Elvis had demonstrated in Iraq with Jack ultimately lead to his own downfall."
"You fucking bastard," Charles spat at Bones, as I suddenly realised that the reason Bones hated Elvis was connected to the injuries Jack had sustained in Iraq, and that Bones held Elvis responsible.
"I'm also certain that when your dear old dad decided for whatever reason to tell you about my father's title, he also told you that it was a mutual decision between myself, my father, and the MoD that I would use the name Robert McClyde in the Army in order to protect my family and to ensure that I would not receive any special treatment. I will not apologize for the fact I choose not to use my father's surname. However, I take my family's safety very seriously, and I can assure you, that you and your father will be held to account for your lack of discretion."
"And Molly?" Charles demanded.
"Where you ever going to tell me?" I demanded, as once again I found myself reeling from yet another betrayal by a man that I loved.
"I don't want to do this here," Bones responded in a tone that brooked no argument.
"I don't give a rat's arse that you don't want to do it here," I protested.
"He clearly didn't tell you because he is using you, Molly," Charles pointed out.
"Have you?" I demanded. "Has all of this been a lie to get revenge?" I found myself doubting Bones once again and terrified at the prospect that Charles had been right all along.
"Of course, not!" Bones looked beyond incensed, as he let Charles go and shoved him aside, so that he was directly facing me. "Why do you persist in not seeing what is bloody in front of you? You would think by now you would realise that I am absolutely and completely incapable of hurting you."
"I-incapable of hurting me?" I whispered, as I found my eyes held captive by his with a look I couldn't quite recognize. It was almost as if for the first time, Bones was finally letting me see into the depths of his soul.
"I'm incapable of hurting you, because I fucking love you, Molly Dawes," Bones confessed. "I have from the moment I first laid eyes on you in Sierra Leone…"