"Oh, Josh," Nikki said, setting aside the report she had been working on. She held up her hand, pulled him down to sit on the lounge next to her, and wrapped him in her arms.
"Mum wants me there."
"Of course she does, and you should be."
"Nikki, I want… I need... you with me."
"Of course. I'll call Dr Brennan and then Mike. Maybe Chris and Sally can take Gale so she'll have the kids to play with as we don't know how long we'll be gone."
"I'll call her," he looked up Sally's number in his contacts, dials, and then steps out so that Nikki can make her calls.
"Okay, Sally said she would be happy to take Gale. Hammersley is out right now, not that that would matter." Josh told Nikki.
"Dr Brennan said fine. I'm not to overdo it, of course, and to be sure to get to the ER if anything should happen. She said to tell you she's sorry to hear about your father. Mike is going to send Jeffreys over to pick up the reports that I've finished, and he wishes you the best."
"Okay, I'll go online and see about tickets. If there isn't anything, I'll call and see if I can get compassionate seats."
They were able to get a 1:30 flight to Melbourne. Josh ended up having to call the airline direct, and they were given two seats in first class under compassionate tickets.
Then Josh called Emma and told her what was happening.
"Josh, I'm so sorry. I'll be praying for your father and your family."
"Thanks, Emma. I don't know how long we'll be gone. Gale is going to stay with Navy friends. They have two kiddos for her to play with. I think it will be easier on her."
"I agree. Tell Nikki to take care."
"Will do."
Josh packed bags for all of them, making sure that Gale had her bear and favourite blanket; Nikki tried to help, but he wouldn't have it. As soon as they were ready, they left to head over to the Blakes.
Once they checked in at the airport, they made their way to their gate. He called to check in with his mum. Seeing as he hadn't heard anymore, he hoped that things would at least be the same.
"Hi, Mum, how's he doing? We're on the 1:30 flight, and that puts us in at 4:40. We should be at the hospital by 5:15."
"Your sisters are here."
"Good. Is dad awake?"
"No, he has a breathing tube. He's moving to surgery soon, the next 15 minutes or so."
"Which hospital, Mum?"
"St. Vincent's, 41 Victoria Parade."
"Josh, what about Gale?"
"No worries, Mum. We didn't think that this was a good trip to bring her on. She's staying with Navy friends Sally and Chris Blake. They have two kids for her to play with.
"That's good. They're calling me Josh. I'll see you when you get here."
"Bye Mum, love you."
"You too."
Josh sat down next to Nikki. She had her feet up and resting on their carry on.
"Luv, we have time. Do you think we should eat something before getting on the plane? Could you eat?" Nikki asked him.
"Yeah, probably a good idea. What can I get you?"
"Just a sandwich and caffeine-free diet coke. And a biscuit," she answered with a grin.
"Okay, be right back."
Josh got them each a sandwich, drinks and got Nikki a package of caramel Tim Tams from the airport convenience store. They sat and ate as Josh talked about his favourite memories with his dad.
Boarding the flight, they were shown their seats. Unfortunately, they weren't ticketed together. The passenger assigned the seat next to Josh had noticed that he and Nikki were together and that she was pregnant. She had seen Josh giving Nikki a quick kiss before taking his seat.
"Excuse me, Sir. I can exchange my seat with your...wife? if you would like to sit together."
"That's really great of you. Thank you."
"No, worries, I'll tell the flight attendant and then your…"
"Wife. Nikki."
"Nikki, great. Then she can sit here. Happy to help."
She got up, spoke to the flight attendant. The attendant smiled and thanked her, then went to Nikki.
"Ma'am, this woman has offered her seat to you so that you may sit with your husband."
"Oh my gosh! Thank you so much. That's so kind."
"No worries." Nikki got up, thanked the woman again and went back to sit next to Josh. Sitting down, she took his hand, gave it a squeeze, and kissed his cheek. He squeezed back, then tipped his head back and closed his eyes with an empty feeling in the pit of his stomach.
The flight landed on time in Melbourne. They picked up a hire car and headed straight away to the hospital. Upon arriving, they were directed to the surgical waiting area, where they found Diane with Amelia and her husband, Luca. They all hugged. Diane was holding up reasonably well, considering.
"Any news, Mum?"
"He's been in surgery for almost 4 hours. We got an update from one of the surgical nurses that things were steady, and it would be a while yet. That was 45 minutes ago." Then she patted the seat next to her for him to sit. Before he sat, he dragged one of the free chairs over to Nikki to put her feet up, especially after 3 hours on the plane.
Stacy arrived from Brisbane, where she had gone to a work conference, and they all settled in to wait.
Another hour goes by, and then the surgeon walks into the waiting area accompanied by a nurse. He is looking grave as he approaches the family. Diane and Amelia had met him before the surgery when he explained the surgery to them.
Diane stood and Josh with her holding her elbow. "Dr Singh…"
"Mrs Holiday," he says, taking her hands. "I'm afraid that there was too much damage to the heart muscle, and we weren't able to take James off the pump, ahh, heart-lung machine. He passed away at 6:35. I'm very sorry for your loss."
Diane's knees buckled, and Josh caught her, easing her into a chair.
"Can we see him?" she asked once she was able to speak.
"Give us a few minutes, Mrs Holiday," the nurse answered compassionately. " We'll move him to a room where you can be with him. I'll come back and get you."
"Thank you," was all she could say.
The surgical team got Jim cleaned up, placed on a gurney with clean linens, wheeled him into one of the private exam rooms, and then brought in the family.
Tears running down her cheeks, "he looks like he's sleeping," Diane said. Diane was bracketed with Josh on one side and Amelia on the other. Nikki held on to Josh's arm while Stacy stood on Amelia's other side. Luca and John, Stacy's husband, stood at the foot of the gurney.
When they left the hospital, they went home with Diane. Stacy and Amelia made drinks, and the family settled in the living room to discuss what needed to be done.
Diane settled on a funeral home, and Josh left a message with their answering service and notified the hospital.
"Your father and I both want cremation," Diane announced. "And no fuss."
"Okay," there was a chorus of agreement.
"I want a one-day viewing," Diane continued after taking a deep breath.
"Once his ashes," choking on her words, "once his ashes are returned to us, we'll have a small intimate memorial service. Josh, I would like you to take Dad's boat to his favourite fishing spot after the service to spread his ashes."
"Okay, Mum," he answered solemnly.
"Diane, this all sounds perfect," Nikki said.
Amelia added, " I'm sure that he would be pleased." Stacy agreed.
"Mum, I'll check in with the funeral home in the morning and tell them your wishes. You should try and get some sleep," Josh told her.
Sitting, staring at the floor, she then looked up at her son. "Not sure that I can, but I'll try." Crying then, " I haven't slept alone in 38 years."
"Oh, Mum," Josh said, hugging her, and his sisters joined in.
The following afternoon…" Stacy and I are going to run to the market," Josh tells his mother and Nikki. "We'll pick up some simple meals. Nikki, Babe, do you want anything special?"
"No, I'm good with whatever. I'm going to try and nap while you're gone."
"Good."
When they got back from the market, Stacy's husband John had arrived, as did Ameilia and Luca. The husbands were on the patio having a beer. Once the food was stored away, Josh grabbed a beer and not in the mood for the light-hearted banter from his brothers-in-law, he wandered down to his dad's boat.
Finishing his beer, he laid on the bench seat that stretched across the back of the boat, trying hard not to think too much. He just laid there watching the white puffy clouds float by. That's where Nikki found him after she woke from her nap.
"Josh?" she called softly.
"Hey, Babe. Good sleep?"
"It was okay. Want some company?"
"Your company is always welcome." Josh stood and helped his very pregnant wife aboard the boat.
"Here, sit here; you can get your feet up," he said, indicating the bench seat. Then he got comfortable sitting on the deck next to her.
"Are you okay? I know, a silly question to ask."
"I just can't wrap my head around him being gone. I...just…" then his tears started, and he couldn't speak. Nikki pulled him close, kissing his cheek, and just holding him. After a couple of minutes, Nikki told him to join her on the bench, and she had him lay back down with his head on her tummy. Baby Joshua gave a mighty kick, and he laughed.
"So, you didn't want to sit with Luca and John?" Nikki asked.
"What? With Mutt and Jeff? Not in the mood for them."
He closed his eyes while Nikki combed her fingers through his curls. Shortly he fell asleep. Reaching for one of the deck pillows, she shifted into a more comfortable position and took out her phone to read.
Diane wandered out to the patio, "Where have Josh and Nikki gotten off to?"
"Down at the boat, I think," Amelia answered.
"Josh looked like he needed some space," Luca added.
"I went down to the dock to check on them," Stacy said, "found them asleep. They're so cute, Josh wrapped around Nikki's tummy."
After a light supper of toasted sandwiches, Amelia and Luca went home to their kids. Stacy, John, Josh, Nikki, and Diane attempted to watch a movie but gave up after an hour when none of them could get into it. Stach and John left, then they went up to bed.
Nikki was undressing, and Josh announced that he was going to shower. Giving him a hug, she climbed into bed as he headed into the ensuite. A few minutes later, she heard Josh yell, accompanied by a loud bang.
"FUCK!"
Rolling out of bed, she called out to him as she let herself into the bathroom. " Josh? Josh, are you okay?" Then she saw him sitting on the shower floor. Reaching in and shutting down the water, Nikki grabbed his towel and got into the shower with him and, with difficulty, managed to sit next to him on the floor. She pulled him close while he grieved for his father.
"Nikki, we talked every Thursday since we've been back from the island," he said, sobbing. I'm going to miss those calls."
They stayed that way until Josh felt calmer. "How the hell did you manage to get yourself down here?" he asked.
Nikki laughed, "I was only thinking about you. I think you might have to call for a crane now to get me up."
Josh wiped his face and then kissed his wife. Standing, he took both of her hands and helped her to her feet.
"This nightie is wet, and you only packed one, so I'll need one of your tee shirts."
"I love how you look with my tee sitting on top of your belly," he said, grinning.
Climbing into bed, Nikki held him close while they slept.
17 January
In the morning, they had a simple breakfast. The viewing would be that afternoon, 2 - 4:00 at Maury's Funeral Home.
Diane and her family were sitting in a receiving line while visitors came to pay their respects. Everyone from Jim's law office, along with several judges, had stopped to pay their respects. There was a large group from the country club, along with their neighbours and friends. Josh had hold of Diane's hand the whole time. Nikki was resting her hand on his arm.
Following the viewing, James would be taken to the crematorium. In around two weeks, his ashes would be returned to Diane.
Back at the house, Josh ordered Chinese take-away. Then they all retreated to the living room to discuss what was next.
"When I get Dad's ashes, we'll have a memorial service in the back garden. That'll be in about 2-weeks. I don't want to wait too long because Nikki's due date will be soon."
"What did you have in mind, Mum?" Amelia asked.
"A short service with some remembrances. Some soft music and a few flowers. Then cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Once everyone has left, I would like Josh to take us out in the boat to Dad's favourite fishing spot to release his ashes."
The following afternoon, Nikki and Josh said goodbye and returned to Cairns.
27 January, Wednesday
Diane and Amelia went to the funeral home to retrieve Jim's ashes. Once home, she put them on the piano in the living room, and then she went to call Josh.
"Hey, Mum,"
"Hi honey, Amelia and I just picked up your father's ashes."
" How are you doing?"
"Okay, I'm just taking it one day at a time."
"So, what are you thinking?"
"The memorial service a week from Saturday, 6 February. Will that give you enough time? I want to do this before little Joshua is born. I really don't want to have to wait a couple of months to put him to rest."
"Mum, it's okay. We understand. February 6 should be fine. We'll just check in with Nikki's doctor. Let me know if there is anything that I can do to help. It's kind of hard with us being up here."
"No worries, Josh, I just would like you here. Your sisters and I can take care of everything else. When do you think you could get here?"
"That Friday, I would think."
"Okay, I'm going to wire some money. I want you to fly first class."
"Mum, that's not necessary."
"Yes, it is. I want Nikki to be as comfortable as possible. So 2 round tickets, first class."
"Thank you, Mum, you're too much."
"You two are worth it. Talk to you soon. Love you."
"Love you too, Mum. Bye."
Nikki was sitting on the balcony in her lounger enjoying the sea breeze and lemonade when Josh went out to see her.
"Was that your Mum?"
"Yeah, it looks like we'll be heading to Melbourne on February 6. She just got Dad's ashes."
"Wow, okay… should be alright, I hope."
"Tell Dr Brennan that you'll be flying first class."
"What? You're kidding."
"Mum is insisting; she's buying the tickets. She told me that she wants to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible."
"Wow! It was a whole world nicer than coach. I'm going to get spoiled," she laughed. "I'll check with Sally and see if Gale can stay with them again."
"Okay."
Nikki's due date was 2 ½ weeks away, and she wasn't sure that Dr Brennan would be okay with her going. Josh had made up his mind that if Nikki couldn't go, he would be staying behind. Being that the birth was so close, he wasn't about to leave her side.
Dr Brennan asked her not to make it a long trip and that she was to make sure that she continued with the restrictions. She was pleased that they would be flying first class giving Nikki more room. Nikki was to call her as soon as they returned.
5 February
They dropped Gale with the Blakes and headed to the airport. Getting settled in their seats on the plane, they saw the same woman that had changed seats with Nikki on their last flight down to Melbourne.
"Hello! Nice to see you. Do you fly to Melbourne often?"
"Well, my family is there. My dad passed recently, so there has been a lot more back and forth."
"I'm so sorry to hear that."
"Thanks," and they moved on back to their seats.
When Josh and Nikki arrived at the house, the caterers were there setting up the sun awnings and chairs for the service. There was a small podium set up in front with baskets of white flowers around it.
"Mum," Josh said, going up to his mother. " Everything looks nice. How are you doing?"
"Josh! Nikki! How was your flight?"
"Very comfortable, thanks to you," Nikki replied.
" So… Mum, how are you?"
"I won't lie, Josh, it's hard. I still can't believe he's gone."
The manager of the catering company approached them. " Excuse me. Mrs Holiday, we are just finishing up. We'll be here at noon tomorrow to set up the food and drinks. Is there anything else?"
"No, Mr Antony, thank you. I'll see you tomorrow.
Okay... Nikki, would you like to lay down for a bit? Then I thought we could go out for dinner with Stacy. Amelia can't make it."
"That would be good, Diane, thanks," kissing Josh, she headed up the stairs to the room that they always used.
"Josh, how about a beer?" Diane asked.
"Sure, that sounds good, Mum."
"Hey, brother!" Stacy went over to him and gave him a fierce hug. He hugged her back.
"Little Sis, honestly, how is Mum doing."
"She's strong Josh, she's sad, of course, but doing okay."
"That's good to hear."
"Where's Nik? Laying down?"
"Yeah, this pregnancy has been harder on her than Gales when we were on the island."
"Everyone is different. A healthy mum and baby are all that matters, not so much how you get there."
"Wow, oh wise one!" he said teasingly.
It was approaching 6 pm, so Josh went up to wake Nikki before she missed dinner and slept the night away. After gently waking her and a snuggle, Nikki got up and changed for dinner. Josh changed his shirt, putting on Nikki's favourite blue one that she says lights up his eyes. The one that she had bought for him in Pine Cove.
Memorial Service: James Walter Holiday 4 May 1958 - 15 January 2021
Josh woke early and went down to the boat with a coffee. It was a perfect day—a slight breeze with the promise of warmth later. Sitting there in the captain's chair, he reminisced about the trips he and his dad had taken in that boat. (God, how dad loved his boat).
An hour or so later, Nikki came looking for him. " Hey babe, your mum is starting breakfast. Come and eat."
"Thanks, Luv." He climbed onto the dock, pulled Nikki to him and gave her a deep kiss.
"Whoa, what was that for?"
"What? I need a reason? How's this for one... I love you."
"Good enough for me," and she returned the favour.
Josh continued to hold her close and began kissing behind her ear and down her neck, causing shivers.
Amelia was gazing out over the back garden when she spotted them down on the boat dock. "Well, they're at it again."
"Who?" Diane asked.
"Josh and Nikki…"
Diane walked over and joined her, then smiled. Her first genuine smile since Jim had passed. "They're happy."
The attendees started to arrive at 12:30 and were directed to their seats by the ushers. Diane had hired a cellist; she was playing softly, and the guests were seated. Nikki's parents had arrived. She and Josh greeted them and escorted them to the row behind theirs.
"Nikki, how are you feeling? This trip isn't going to be too much, I hope." Sophia said. Josh tried hard not to roll his eyes.
"I'm fine, Mum. Dr Brennan gave me the green light. Thank you for coming. Where are you staying?"
"We're the Hilton at the airport," Dom answered.
Along with the family, Jim's Law partners and associates were there, and the same judges that were at the viewing. His country club friends and others were also in attendance.
It was a lovely and tasteful service with Josh, Amelia and Stacy speaking of their father. James' best friend and law partner, Noah Ashford, had words to say also.
Following the service, the attendees mingled, talking and reminiscing, having cocktails as trays of hors d'oeuvres were passed around.
By 3:00, the last of the guests had left, leaving an exhausted family.
"Mum, Dad," Nikki said. "Josh is going to be taking the boat out with James' ashes in about a half-hour. Would you like me to see if Diane would mind if you came?"
"Oh, Nikki, we wouldn't want to intrude, that's a very private moment, and we didn't know him that well. Maybe we can meet up with you all for dinner?"
"I'm not sure what the plans are, but that sounds good."
"Alright, good. We're going to find Diane and say goodbye and head back to the hotel. You'll call later?"
"I will."
Diane was just finishing up with the caterers when Sophia and Dom found her in the kitchen.
"Sophia, Dom, thank you so much for travelling all this way. I was pleasantly surprised to see you."
"Diane, we wanted to be here; Jim was a great guy. It was a wonderful service. Perfect, actually."
"Thank you, Sophia. What are you and Dom doing for dinner? We are planning on going out. Would you like to join us?"
"We'd love to."
"I'll have Nikki call you with the details."
"Great, we were just heading back to the hotel for a little R&R. Dinner sounds lovely."
"Good, I'll see you later then. Probably around 7:00."
Dom and Sophia hugged Diane and left for the hotel.
After taking some quiet time, the family made their way to the boat. I was just going on 4:00 when Josh was pulling away from the dock to head to the harbour. There was a quiet cove that his dad loved to fish in. He said it was his lucky spot.
Nikki went to sit by him while he piloted his dad's boat to the cove. She relieved to see that he was keeping it together. Diane and his sisters as well, but the hard part was coming up.
Josh eased into the cove and set the motor to idle. Then John took over, steering slowly around the cove so that Josh could be with his mum as they released Jim's ashes.
Saying a final goodbye, Diane and each of the children poured some of the ashes into the water. Then John shut the motor down, and Josh brought out some champagne glasses and champagne for a final toast. There were tears and hugs, and then they were ready to return home. Josh took over from John and brought them home.
At 7:00, they met up with the Caetano's at James' favourite steak house and had an enjoyable dinner. The dinner party broke up around 8:30. Nikki and Josh walked her parents to their car.
"What time is your flight tomorrow?" Nikki asked.
"11:00"
"Good that you are staying at the airport," Josh added.
"It does make it easier," Dom replied.
"Mum, Dad, It's so nice to see you. Thank you for coming. I know it meant a lot to Diane and to Josh too."
"Yes, thank you," Josh added.
"Josh, son, of course. You're family." Dom told him, grasping his arm and patting his shoulder.
After saying their goodbyes, they all made their way to their respective cars.
"Mum, are you riding with Nikki and me?"
"Yes, Stacy and Amelia are going to head home."
"Okay, no hurry, we'll be in the car. Nikki needs to get off her feet."
Later they visited with Diane in the living room for a while, then exhausted, Nikki went up to bed, and Josh joined her.
Nikki was changing, and Josh knelt in front of her. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her tummy. "Nikki, I am the luckiest man on earth. You are my everything, my happiness, my strength. Thank you for being here and taking care of my family and me."
"Oh, Josh, I love you. Of course, I will be there for you, whenever and always." She pulled on his shoulders to encourage him to stand up. Then she pulled him into a hug and a soft, loving kiss. Sliding into bed, they met in each other's arms and fell asleep.
7 February
The morning light was shining through the curtains as they woke, still wrapped in each other's arms.
"Mum's up," he said, then kissed her.
"How do you know? I haven't heard anything."
"I can smell coffee and bacon."
"Now that you mention it…"
"I'm pretty hungry. Let's go eat."
This was to be their final day in Melbourne. Diane had asked for everyone to meet at 2:00 at the house. Before his sisters arrived, Diane asked Josh and Nikki to join her in James' office.
"Josh, Dad wanted you to have his boat."
'Awe, jeez, Mum."
"If you don't want it, you can sell it, put it towards a house."
"Mum, I don't know. I love the boat, and you know I love being on the water, but I can't really use it and selling it just doesn't feel right either. What about Amelia or Stacy? They live right here."
"Your sisters have never shown any interest in the boat. They'll just sell it, and Dad wanted you to have it. It's yours, sweetheart, to do with what you wish. You sell it.
Also, there is a life insurance policy for 5 million. You each get 1 million."
"Jeez, Mum…"
"Look, Josh, he wanted to be sure his children were well cared for even though you're all adults with your own families. When you and Nikki went missing and presumed lost, we were devastated. And then, a miracle. You were brought back to us and with a beautiful baby girl. It was right then that he bought the policy. He said he felt good knowing that if anything happened to him that you all would be provided for."
"Alright, Mum, before Nikki and I return to Cairns, I'll talk to Jed at the marina about selling the boat. I'll move it to the marina if you want."
"Good. Honestly, Josh, I don't want to have to see it every day. His golf clubs, either. I'm going to ask John and Luca if either of them want them. If they both do then, they can flip a coin or something.
Now, next, I've decided to sell the house."
Josh had trouble not dropping his mouth open. " Sell the house? Mum, You're sure? Maybe you should wait a bit before making that decision. It's all so sudden."
"Josh, this house is huge, and I see him around every corner. I need a change."
"Mum, do you have anything in mind? Where will you go?"
"Cairns. I want to help with Gail and the baby."
Nikki had remained quiet, feeling that it wasn't her place to comment, but now she thought she needed to interject. "Diane, not that we wouldn't be thrilled to have you close, but what about Stacy and Amelia?"
"They have each other, and their families and in-laws close by. I'll visit, of course. I'm sure that they will understand."
"Well, Mum, it would be fantastic having you close."
"Yes, It would be wonderful," added Nikki.
Stacy, Amelia and their husbands arrived a little after 2. They were sitting around the living room and chatting until Diane started to talk about why she had asked everyone to get together.
"First, I have to tell you how much you all are loved and how much your father loved you. You kids meant everything to him. This being said, a year ago, your father drafted a new will. Along with the will, he bought a life insurance policy. The policy is worth 5 million."
There was a collective gasp from Josh's sisters and their husbands. Josh held Nikki's hand and kept quiet, already knowing about the policy and the money.
"5 million?" Amelia said incredulously.
"That's right. One million to go to each of you. He wanted to be sure that his family was well cared for and for his grandchildren to have money for school.
"Next, he left Josh his boat."
"That makes sense," Stacy said, with Amelia nodding in agreement.
"Now, finally… I am selling the house."
Now they were stunned. "Mum? What?" Amelia exclaimed.
"So soon? Don't you want to think about it? Not jump right in?" Stacy added.
" It hurts too much to walk around this big house and see him everywhere."
"But that will be better with time, don't you think?" Stacy replied.
"I'm not sure that it will, Stacy. I've made up my mind. I have an appointment with Uncle Noah, and he will manage the sale. He's also going to pack up Dad's home office and go through everything, ensuring that there aren't any client files your father may have brought home. He'll separate any important documents that I'll need, tax forms and such and forward them to me. His law books will be donated to the law library. He is, of course, going to do the same with dad's office at the firm."
"Where will you go? Will you look for another house? A condo, maybe?" John asked her.
"Well...I've decided that I am going to Cairns to be closer to Josh and Nikki, help out with Gale and baby Joshua. You two have each other nearby. I'll, of course, come for visits."
"Crikey Mum, this is a lot to process," Amelia said with a sigh.
" I know. Your father was my husband and best friend for 38 years. I miss him terribly. I need some joy back in my life."
"Okay, Mum, I get it," said Stacy.
"Me too, Mum. It's important for you to be happy." Amelia added.
After a period of silence, the conversation picked back up with talk about the grandkids, school, work, and other subjects. Then the conversation came back around to the house."
"Mum, when are you planning on going?" Stacy wondered.
"Yeah, Mum," Amelia added.
"As soon as everything is settled here. Over the next couple of days, I want you, girls, to look around and take whatever you want—furniture, linens, dishes, appliances… anything. The rest will be sold in an estate sale. If you each want a car, take it. No arguments, though. If you don't want them, they will be sold too, and you'll split the money I think now that covers everything."
"You aren't taking anything?" Stacy asked incredulously.
"No, just some personal items, pictures and such. I want a completely fresh start. I'll buy what I need in Cairns."
"Josh, is there anything that you would like?" his mother asked.
Thinking for a moment, " yeah, the model schooner that's in the office."
"Of course, anything else?"
"Not that I can think of."
"I'll have it boxed with my things and shipped up."
"Thanks, Mum."
"Josh, your dad would have wanted you to have it.
Now, Uncle Noah will be handling all of the sales. Call him if you need anything or have any questions. He will be distributing the insurance money when the checks come in, so think about what you want to do with it."
Nikki and Josh already knew what her plans were and had some time to take it all in. The girls were going to take a bit.
Later they all went out to dinner. Josh and Nikki said goodbye to Stacy and Amelia as they were returning to Cairns the following evening. Their flight was at 7:00p.
8 February
After breakfast, Josh took his dad's boat to the marina. He had spoken to Jed and arranged to bring it in, and he would have a slip ready.
"Nikki, do you feel up to a boat ride?" Josh asked her.
Knowing that he probably didn't want to be alone, giving him too much time to think, she agreed to go.
"I'm fine; I'd love to go, Babe," giving him a hug and a quick kiss.
" I'll call Mum when we are done at the marina, and she'll come and get us."
Josh slid the boat into the slip that Jed pointed out, secured it, then helped Nikki onto the dock.
"Mrs Holiday, Josh, I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. So sudden, he had just been in the day before for petrol. Mrs Holiday, when are you due?" Jed said as he greets them on the dock.
"Please, Jed, it's Nikki. Our baby is due 17 February."
"Crikey, close! So, Josh, let's go into the office and sign some papers. What do you want for the boat?"
"Jed, I'll be honest, I haven't a clue as to what it's worth."
"Alright, I'll pull some similar ones up on the computer and see what they are asking."
"That would be great, I probably should have done that, but we've been rather busy."
"No worries, Josh, completely understandable. Nikki, can I get you anything? Something cold to drink?"
"No, thanks, I'm good."
"Okay, let's see what we've got…"
After a few minutes of cruising through some ads, the consensus was that asking should be $175,000. Josh signed the agreements, and they shook hands.
"Josh mate, I'll be in touch. Good luck with your new little one."
"Thanks, listen, take any reasonable offer."
"Of course. Safe journeys back north."
"Jed," Nikki said, reaching out her hand, "nice to meet you."
"Likewise."
Then walked from the office and headed to one of the benches that overlooked the bay to call his Mum.
Josh finished the call with his mum and turned to Nikki. "She's going to be a bit; Uncle Noah is there. There's a food shack just over there. Want some chips or something?"
" Smothered?"
"Is there any other way?"
They needed to be at the airport by 5:30, so pizza was ordered for an early dinner. After eating, Josh put their bag in their car, and Diane walked out with Nikki to say goodbye.
"Mum, call us when you decide what you're going to do," Josh said as he hugged her.
"Well, I'm going to see if I can purchase a townhouse in your complex. That is if you don't mind my being that close."
"Diane, of course not. It'll be wonderful having nearby."
"I promise not to be a meddlesome Mum."
"Mum, please, no worries."
More hugs and kisses, and they were on their way home.
15 February:
Diane said a teary goodbye to her girls and boarded a plane for Cairns. The plan was that she would stay with Nikki and Josh until she found a townhouse. Dom's friend and partner, Noah, would be handling everything having to do with the estate. The few things that Diane wanted from the house had been set aside, and once she was settled, Noah would arrange for those things to be shipped to her.
Diane's flight was landing at 4:00. Emma stayed with Nikki while Josh went to the airport with Gale to pick up his mother.
20 February
Nikki woke to a backache at 4 am. Thinking that she slept funny, she got out of bed, stretched and headed into the bathroom. Sitting down, she felt a gush. (Oh, Wow) she thought, ( water just broke… did I even pee?) After cleaning herself up, she waddled back to bed and woke up Josh.
"Hmmm, Nikki, everything okay?" he asked her sleepily.
"Everything is perfect, Luv. Baby Joshua is coming. My water broke."
Josh bolted upright and was suddenly wide awake.
"Holy shit! Are you sure? How are you?"
Nikki laughed, "Not your first rodeo, mate. I'm fine, just some minor twinges.
"I'll call Dr Brennan."
Dr Brennan wasn't on call, but she had told them to call her anytime. She wanted to be there to deliver their baby. They had become special patients. She told them to sit tight and that she would check in with them in an hour.
At 5:00, Dr Brennan called to check in and told them to head to the hospital when the contractions became regular. She said to keep up her fluids and have something light to eat. Josh made her an english and brought her some juice.
Josh was sitting next to her on the sofa. Nikk, becoming increasingly uncomfortable and was alternating between sitting and walking. By 6:00, the contractions began in earnest.
Blowing out a breath while a contraction eased, Nikki looked at Josh, "I think it's time to go. I don't want to be too late to get that epidural."
"Okay, Luv, sit; I'll wake up Mum and call Dr Brennan."
Josh walked into Gale's room just as Diane was lifting her from her cot.
"Dada!" Gale called out and reached for him.
Taking her in his arms, he kissed her cheek.
"Good morning, Poppet. Are you ready for your new baby brother?"
Diane looked momentarily stunned. "Nikki's in labour?"
"Yup, it's time for us to head to the hospital."
Josh handed Gale back to his mum. "Poppet, Mum Mum and I are going to go and get your new baby brother, so you need to stay with Nana. Okay?"
"I wanna go.."
"Not this time, Poppet. Stay with Nana, and the next time we see you, we will have baby Joshua."
Pouting, "Otay"
Diane went to wish Nikki well while Josh gathered the things they had gotten ready for the hospital. A couple of outfits for the baby and a nightie for Nikki, and some toiletries.
Diane walked them out carrying Gale, and after quick hugs and kisses, they were off to Barry General near the Navy Base.
After Nikki was admitted, Dr Brennan was called. Nikki's labour and delivery nurse gave her a report on Nikki's status then Dr Brennan ordered Nikki's epidural to be given.
Nikki's contractions were becoming more intense. Josh was walking with her and rubbing her back with soft encouraging words.
The anesthesiologist was just starting the epidural when Dr Brennan arrived. As soon as it was in, the anesthesiologist injected the anesthetic. "Now, there you go, Nikki. It will take a little bit to kick in fully, but you will gradually become more comfortable."
"Ooooo," as she breathed through a contraction. The contraction eases, " Thank you."
"No worries, happy baby." Turning to her nurse, " call when it's time, and I'll come and give her a boost."
"Will do."
Dr Brennan examined her and was pleased with the progression of the labour. "Now, Nikki, Josh, things are moving along nicely but may slow down a bit due to the epidural but no worries."
"Okay," Nikki said, breathing through another contraction that already felt less intense. A half-hour later, she was all smiles as Josh sat on the bed with her, holding her and giving her soft kisses. Nikki's nurse was grinning. She rarely saw such affection between the parents.
At noon Nikki felt the need to push, and Dr Brennan stepped right in. Dr Patel from anesthesia was called to give the epidural another dose.
Josh got onto the bed and sat behind Nikki so she could lean against him. She was ready to bring little Joshua into the world.
"Alright, Nikki, one more great push! Here he is!" There was a hardy cry.
Both Josh and Nikki were crying. "Josh, would you like to cut the cord?"
Wiping his face and smiling from ear to ear, and not wanting to move from holding Nikki, Josh tells her that he's good.
Baby Joshua was looked over by the pediatrician and declared to be healthy at 3.5kg. All cleaned up; he was brought to his very happy parents.
Josh leaned over and kissed Nikki. "I'm going to step out and call Mum, and she can spread the news. I'll call your mum too."
"Okay," she answered without taking her eyes off their baby as he nursed for the first time.
"Josh! Well?" Diane exclaimed, having seen the caller id.
"Baby boy Joshua James Holiday, born at 12:16, 3.5kg and gorgeous!"
"Oh, that's wonderful. How's Nikki?"
"She's good, great even. What a difference having the epidural makes compared to Gales natural birth. She was smiling the whole time!"
"Modern medicine. I don't understand why women put themselves through all that when there is something safe available. Amelia went natural. I wonder if after things start to get really intense if some regret their decision."
"After seeing how comfortable Nikki was, I can't see any other way. At least for us, anyway."
"Planning on more, Josh?" Diane said, chuckling.
"Not particularly, just saying. Okay, Mum, I need to call Sophia and Dom, and I want to get back. Love you, Mum. Be sure and tell Gale about her baby brother."
"I will, of course. Love you both."
Then Josh dialled Nikki's mum. "Josh? Hi, everything alright?" Sophia asked when she answered her phone.
"Everything is great, Sophia. Baby Boy Joshua James Holiday was born at 12:16, 3.5kg and as beautiful as his mother."
Sophia was practically jumping up and down with the news. "How's Nikki?"
"She's great, nursing the little guy."
"Pictures, Josh! Pictures!"
Josh laughed. "I'll get some to you a little later, promise."
"Give Nikki our love, and you too, Josh. Kiss that little baby for us."
"Will do."
As soon as they disconnected, Sophia called Dom and gave him the fantastic news.
Josh finished his phone calls for now and hustled back to Nikki. Walking into their room, he found Nikki asleep and Joshua in his hospital bassinet. He sat in the "daddy" lounger chair and closed his eyes. He was sleeping in minutes. Thirty minutes later, he woke to Joshua's cries. Josh slipped off his tee-shirt and picked him up, holding him close to his chest for some skin to skin time. Nikki's nurse had heard his cries and peeked in only to see a now content baby being walked about by his father. She smiled and turned away.
A few minutes later, Nikki woke to see her newborn son and his father, and she didn't believe that she could possibly be more in love.
They had dinner together and planned on a bit of TV before it was time for lights out. Josh had slipped out after dinner to finish his phone calls, Mike, Emma, and the Blakes.
Returning to the room, " Nikki, would you like some ice cream?"
"Oh wow, would I!"
"Okay, I'll be right back; I'll just run to that little base market."
"We'll be here!"
Josh was back in no time with two cartons of Ben & Jerry's and spoons. He got Nikki settled and climbed up on the bed with her, and they turned on the TV, enjoying some quiet time while Joshua was sleeping.
The following day Nikki was discharged. Josh had called a florist and ordered some flowers to be delivered along with a box of Nikki's favourite chocolate truffles.
The flowers were there when they arrived home, and Nikki cried. "Josh, you are just the sweetest man. Thank you."
"You deserve them and more, Babe," pulling her in for a hug and kiss on her cheek.
Later, Josh was sitting on the lounger end of their couch with his feet up, and Gale is sitting on his lap watching her favourite TV show, Giggle and Hoot. Josh loves the way she claps her hands during the songs.
Nikki was asleep, lying across the couch, using Josh's thigh as a pillow with baby Joshua was sleeping on her chest. Diane was just coming from the kitchen when she saw this family scene and quickly took a picture. Josh had never felt so content as he did sitting there with his family.
Diane had been with them for two weeks when she found a townhouse two streets over from Nikki and Josh's. It would be another two weeks before she would be able to move in. She bought all new furniture and household items. She missed James terribly, but these were the best two weeks, being with her latest grandchild and Gale helping to smooth out the grief.
20 April
Baby Joshua was just eight weeks and as adorable as ever with blond curls and Josh's blue eyes.
Josh started his apprenticeship on 8 March, teaching at a high school in Edge Hill, a suburb section of Cairns. He's teaching early Australian History while waiting for a position teaching electronics, his preferred subject. Teaching suited him, and he is enjoying the year seven students. With his easy-going manner and fun approach to the subject, he was well-liked. Several of the young girls had crushes which he found amusing. But his favourite part of his day was arriving home at 4:00. School ended at 3:00, but he would generally stay after the end of the day to grade papers, go over his next day's lesson plan, and be available for any student or parent who wanted to meet with him.
Nikki was still at home on leave from NAVCOM, only halfway through her allotted 14 weeks maternity leave and immensely enjoying her time with Gale and Joshua. Her favourite time of the day was 4:00 when Josh got home. After a hug and a kiss, she would tell him about her day, and he would tell her stories about his students, which usually got a laugh. They got back into jogging and went out every day after Josh got home putting Amelia and Stacy's gift of a double jogger to good use.
Nikki became very adept at juggling her two little ones, even going out shopping and such. Gale would ride on her back and Joshua in his car seat on the trolley. Diane came by often to help out, and between Diane and Emma stopping by to visit, Nikki never felt that 'stay at home' mommy isolation.
Gale was thrilled to be helping with her new brother by fetching fresh nappies and wipes and anything else Nikki could think of to keep her involved.
At night, lying in bed holding each other, Josh and Nikki would contemplate how fortunate and happy they are before saying goodnight…
"Goodnight, Nikki. I love you."
"I love you more.."
"Not possible." Followed by a kiss.
On the first day, I saw you
I had been waiting for you
You know I will adore you
Till eternity
When I'm dreaming in the middle of the night
Someone tell me everything's alright
You're my lover, my best friend
I want to be with you until the end.
Be My Baby: Leslie Mendleson