Chapter 15
Late July 2019
The Edgbaston
Birmingham, United Kingdom
"Ummm," I groaned as I rolled over in the rumpled bed and opened my eyes to find Bones's hotel room filled with sunlight. I was naked underneath the sheets and gave a small grimace as I felt an unfamiliar stiffness in muscles that hadn't been used in nearly two years.
I sat up carefully and scanned the room for Bones, only to discover he was nowhere to be found. I initially felt a moment of panic thinking he may have done a runner on me, only to breathe a sigh of relief when I spotted his black travel satchel sitting in front of the chest of drawers. Knowing Bones, he'd probably gone for a workout.
I knew that he was in top physical condition due to his job, but his stamina the previous evening had blown me away. After our initial coupling, he'd taken his time and had slowly worshipped my body before making love to me again. He'd reached for me twice more during the night. Once in the middle of the night and again at dawn. Suddenly I heard the door to the room begin to open.
-X-
"Good morning, Poppet," Bones greeted me warmly while I sat on the bed holding the sheet up to my chin. It was clear from his attire that he had been working out as I had suspected.
"Hiya," I blushed, feeling at bit awkward.
"There's no need to be shy," Bones sat down on the bed next to me and reached for my cheek.
"This, um, might be bog standard for you, but I um, don't really do this sort of thing," I blurted out, causing my cheeks to redden further.
"Believe it or not, last night was what my mum would call a turn up for the books," Bones drawled with a hint of amusement.
"What do you mean?"
"While I'm not going to deny that I've fucked around, I can assure you that I have never stayed for brekky until now."
"So, you're more like a wham, bam, thank you ma'am type of bloke?" I raised an eyebrow at him.
"I suppose that's one way of putting it," Bones smirked. "I've never spent the night with a woman until last night."
"You're joking?" I raised a sceptical eyebrow at him.
"I'm deadly serious," Bones assured. "I don't know what it is about you, Molly, but you seem to make me chuck my rules out the window," he breathed, before gently pushing me back against the pillows and capturing my lips in a kiss filled with heated intent.
-X-
Two hours later, Bones and I were seated in Lewis's Independent Café & Restaurant located near my flat in Moseley. I thought it would be a good place for us to have breakfast as there was plenty on the menu to appeal to his health-conscious tastes.
"Good choice, Dawesey," Bones complimented once our meal was delivered to us.
"Thanks," I smiled back at him, still finding it hard to believe that we were now a 'real' couple. "Are you heading back to Hereford after this?" I asked.
"Yes," Bones confirmed in between bites of his Eggs Florentine. "I am leaving on a business trip Thursday afternoon."
"Oh," I didn't have the heart to tell him that Thursday was my birthday. While I knew he must have seen my date of birth when he'd snooped into my private affairs, I didn't expect him to remember it. "Where are you going?" I absently played with the spoon in my porridge.
"You know I can't tell you that," Bones reminded.
"Silly me," I gave an awkward giggle, as I continued to stare at my porridge.
"It's just for a few days, Poppet," Bones reached for my hand. "Nothing for you to worry about," he promised.
"Ok," I squeezed his hand in reply.
-X-
"Look, I um, should probably tell you something," I gave Bones an uneasy look after he finished eating. "Given that things are new between us, I would prefer not to start things off on the wrong foot. I know you are not going to like this, but I would appreciate it if you could please make an attempt to keep your hair on until I finish what I need to tell you."
"I'll try not to lose my rag."
"Thank you," I gave Bones an uncertain smile. "So, last night when I spoke to um, Charles, he um, said that he wanted to see me."
"I see," Bones looked back at me with an inscrutable expression.
"At first, I told him to sod off, but he begged me to give him the chance to explain. He asked if he could fly into Birmingham this weekend to meet me."
"Do you plan to give the arsemonger said chance?"
"I dunno," I frowned. "I told him that I would um, think about it."
"Right," Bones gave no indication as to what he was thinking.
"I'm not exactly keen as mustard about the idea…" I trailed off uncomfortably.
"Am I to presume that there is a 'but' coming?"
"I guess I'm wondering if hearing him out might finally provide closure."
"Only you, can answer that question, Molly."
"Would it anger you if I met him?"
"It wouldn't thrill me, but if you feel it's something you need to do, I won't stand in your way," Bones offered.
"That's it?" I was surprised Bones hadn't thrown a wobbler.
"That's it," Bones parroted with a smirk. "In all seriousness Molly, I'll support whatever decision you make with respect to the arsemonger."
"Perhaps you're not so bad at this whole boyfriend thing after all," I smiled back at Bones, before leaning over to kiss him on the cheek, relieved that there were no longer any secrets between us.
-X-
Returning to my flat that evening after a ten-hour shift, I was surprised to find Jackie waiting for me.
"I'd have thought you would have gone to Bedfordshire by now," I observed.
"Not when I have been dying all day for you to fill me in about a certain Special Forces Captain. You were rather cryptic in your text last night."
"We, ummmm," I started to turn bright red.
"Shagged?" Jackie gave me a knowing grin.
"Among other things," I blushed.
"Molly Dawes, you, cheeky mare!" Jackie exclaimed with excitement, obviously pleased with this latest development. "Let me pour us a cuppa and then I want to hear all of the details."
-X-
"Only you, Molls, could tame the legendary Bones McClyde," Jackie observed with pride after I had told her about Bones wanting us to have a 'real' relationship.
"I still cannot believe it. To think, only yesterday, I was barking up the wrong tree by thinking he was in love with Georgie of all people," I cringed with embarrassment.
"But look at where it got you," Jackie pointed out.
"True," I laughed.
"I wonder what Elvis did to make Bones hate him to the extent that he did?"
"I haven't a clue, Jacs. Knowing Bones, it's unlikely I'll ever pry it out of him. At the moment, the only thing I'm interested in prying out of him is his bloody first name."
"There is that," Jackie chuckled.
"I told Bones about Charles wanting to see me at breakfast this morning," I revealed.
"How did he take it?"
"I honestly thought he would lose his temper, but he was remarkably calm about it. He told me that it was my decision to make and that he would support me in any decision I made."
"Have you thought more about what you're going to do?"
"Honestly, I haven't."
"Promise me you'll make a decision, tomorrow?" Jackie requested. "I have an epic girls' night out planned for your birthday, and I want you to be able to enjoy it without any distractions. Unless you would prefer to spend your birthday with Bones…"
"I'm spending my birthday with you, Jacs. Even if Bones wasn't going to be away on SAS business, I would still insist on spending it with you. Now, off you pop. I know you need to be up early tomorrow," I gave my best mate an affectionate dismissal.
-X-
Shortly after Jackie retired for the evening, I retreated to my own room, where I sat on my bed and contemplated what I should do about Charles.
There was a part of me that wanted to hear his explanation. Not out of any real consideration for Charles's feelings, but because he had left my self-esteem in tatters and I needed to understand why he had betrayed me. As much as it seemed that he had been battling PTSD, I still could not help but feel that in some way he'd found me lacking when compared to Georgie.
I knew that it was not a productive exercise to compare myself to her, but it was hard not to feel insecure after what both Artan and Charles had done to me. I only hoped that I could learn how to better manage my insecurities with Bones. While we had a fledgling relationship at best, I did not want my past experiences to shape our future.
Turning my attention back to Charles, I began to question the actual benefit in seeing him again.
Forgiving him was out of the question. He had betrayed my trust in the worst possible way and had nearly broken me. Even if he did reveal what had drawn him to Georgie, it was likely that it would leave me feeling less secure, rather than more secure about myself.
There was also a burning need inside of me to let sleeping dogs lie. Nothing could change the past, and there was no way for Charles to turn back the clock. Hadn't I already relived enough of the past over the past two months? Did I really need to continue to torture myself with it? Especially, when I had met someone new, someone who seemed to like and respect me. Maybe it was time to leave the past behind once and for all…
-X-
Two Days Later
Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Birmingham, United Kingdom
"Molly! Come quick!" Sara Hughes, one of my fellow nurses called out to me from across the Orthopaedic ward.
"What is it?" I hurried over to her, thinking that she must have run into a spot of bother with one of her patients.
"You won't believe what just arrived for you," she gushed, before leading me to the staff breakroom where there was a gigantic floral arrangement sitting on the table. It contained at least 2 dozen white and light pink roses, white and pink hydrangea, and gypsophila.
"Someone certainly hasn't forgotten about your birthday," another one of my colleagues smiled.
"I wonder who sent them?" I mused, staring at the arrangement in surprise. Was it possible that Bones had actually remembered my birthday?
"Aren't you going to open the card?" Sara prompted.
"Of course," I smiled back at her before reaching for the card with a feeling of excitement.
"Molly, are you all right?" Sara asked as she watched all of the colour drain from my face and my hand begin to shake as I stared down at the card.
"I-I'm fine," I lied before plastering a fake smile on my face.
"Are they from Captain McClyde?" she asked.
"Yes," I nodded as I felt my insides churn with anger.
"He has beautiful taste," my other colleague observed. "You are one lucky woman," she remarked, as I forced myself to maintain my composure. I could not believe the bloody bastard had done this.
-X-
"I hope you are planning on getting me plastered tonight," I sighed into my mobile at Jackie.
"Shit day?"
"You could say that. Can you believe that bloody bastard had the nerve to send me an over the top floral arrangement to my work of all places?"
"Bones?" Jackie sounded surprised.
"Charles," I corrected in an irritated voice.
"Charles?" Jackie repeated in disbelief. "I thought you texted him yesterday and told him that you didn't want to see him again?"
"I did," I rolled my eyes.
"Was there a card?"
"Yes. He wished me a happy birthday and asked me to reconsider seeing him this weekend. He even signed the card, 'love Charles'."
"Did he honestly think you would be happy to hear from him on your birthday?"
"If I had any doubts about my decision, this certainly resolves them. The bastard is clearly missing a sensitivity chip in his brain," I grumbled.
"What are you going to do with the flowers?"
"Give them to one of the patients. There is no way in hell I'm bringing them to the flat. I would gladly send them to the rubbish bin, but I might as well make use of them by brightening up someone else's day."
"Just think, in less than four hours, you'll be done with your shift and we'll be having a night out on the town that you won't soon forget," Jackie promised.
"Cheers, Jacs!" I was looking forward to putting the absurdity of Charles's actions behind me and enjoying the remainder of my birthday.
-X-
Finally, it was 15:30 and my shift was complete. Luckily one of my colleagues had been generous enough to trade shifts with me so that I didn't need to work this evening. I had every intention of having a blinding time with Jackie. If I had my way, there would be plenty of tart fuel and dancing. Jackie intended to start us off at the Dirty Martini for happy hour.
Knowing that Jackie would be picking me up soon, I quickly changed out of my uniform in the employee dressing room, and changed into the dress and sandals I had purchased to meet Bones at Brize Norton. I then undid my hair from its plait before pulling it up into a messy bun. Finally, I decided to tart myself up for the evening, and took care in applying lippie, mascara, and eyeliner.
I smiled into the mirror, pleased for once with my appearance. It was time to put all thoughts of Charles aside and focus on having fun. It was unfortunate that I hadn't heard from Bones, but I knew that it was best that I temper my expectations. I highly doubted it was possible for him to contact me if his 'business trip' involved an Op. There was plenty of time for us grow closer once he returned. With this in mind, I grabbed my rucksack and handbag and headed towards the exit.
-X-
Expecting to see Jackie's Mini Copper parked outside of the employee entrance, I was completely and totally gobsmacked to discover Bones leaning casually against the driver's side door of his Range Rover looking absolutely gorgeous. He was dressed in slim fitting grey jeans, an untucked white button-down sports shirt, a black knit blazer with a notched collar, black suede, lace-up, high top sneakers, and black wayfarer sunglasses. His outfit clearly cost a bomb, but I had to admit, I liked it. He was too masculine to ever look like a toff in his posh clothes.
"I hear it's someone's birthday," Bones drawled with a smirk, as I approached his vehicle.
"Is it?" I smirked back.
"I see someone thinks she is a clever-clogs now that she is a twenty-seven," Bones chuckled.
"What are you doing here? I thought you said that you were leaving on a business trip today?" I looked up at him full of curiosity.
"Haven't I taught you by now that one must have a successful cover story when executing a covert Op?"
"And the covert Op in this case?"
"Surprising you on your birthday, Poppet. Even I know that's what boyfriends do."
"This is certainly a welcome surprise," I stood on my tiptoes and wrapped my arms around his neck to pull him in for a kiss.
"Happy Birthday, Molly," He breathed, wrapping his arms around my waist and parting my lips with a mind-numbing kiss.
-X-
"I'm afraid we need to stop mucking about, Poppet," Bones remarked, before pulling away from our embrace.
"Why?"
"It's a surprise," he grinned.
"A surprise? You do realise, I'm not too keen on surprises."
"You'll like this one, I promise," Bones assured, before leading me to the passenger side of his Range Rover.
"Wait," I suddenly stopped.
"What?"
"Jackie was supposed to pick me up and take me out tonight." I was surprised that she had yet to arrive.
"What did I say about cover stories?" Bones smirked.
"Wait, Jackie is in on this?"
"Yes," he confirmed.
-X-
Once inside Bones's Range Rover, I reached into my handbag for my mobile and found a text message waiting from Jackie.
Jackie: I hope we were successful in fooling you. Bones has a brilliant birthday planned for you. Your job is to enjoy every minute of it. The man is a meticulous planner and I know you will love it. We'll save our girls' night out for a later date.
Me: You certainly had me fooled! While you know I'm not much for surprises, I'll trust your instincts on this one. Still looking forward to our girls' night out!
"All sorted?" Bones turned to look at me.
"Yes," I nodded. "Are you going to tell me our destination?"
"And ruin your surprise? I don't think so, Poppet."
"You do realise you just missed the turn for city centre," I observed.
"That would have been inconvenient had we been heading there," Bones shook his head with humour.
-X-
"Why are you turning towards the airport?" I asked Bones twenty minutes later.
"For the usual reasons," he offered in a deadpan tone.
"Are we going on a trip?" I looked at Bones in astonishment.
"Of sorts," Bones smirked.
"But I don't have anything with me," I protested.
"Jackie packed for you."
"Oh," At least that was one less thing to worry about. "Are you at least going to tell me our destination?"
"Patience, Poppet. I promise that all will be revealed in due time."
"You're bloody enjoying this aren't you?" I rolled my eyes at him, causing him to laugh.
-X-
"Why did you park here?" I asked Bones after he helped me out of his vehicle. Instead of using the terminal car park, Bones had driven out near the cargo area and parked in front of a building located near the tarmac with the name 'Signature Flight Support' displayed on it.
"You'll see," Bones promised before taking my hand and leading me into the building.
"What about our luggage?" I worried.
"Relax, Molly. Everything is taken care of," he assured.
"Mr. Blackwood Reed and Ms. Dawes" A polished, middle-aged man in a grey suit greeted us with a handshake. "Welcome to Signature Flight Support. We've been expecting you."
"Thank you," Bones responded, not in the least fussed that the man had called him by an incorrect surname.
"The pilots are just completing their pre-flight check. You should be able to board momentarily. If you'll be so kind as to hand Jacob," the man motioned to another smartly dressed employee, "your car keys, he will arrange for your luggage to be loaded onto the plane."
-X-
"Mr. Blackwood Reed?" I questioned Bones in a hushed voice after we had been shown to a swish lounge area and had been offered a glass of champagne.
"One of my various aliases," Bones smiled. "Doing what I do, I cannot be too careful."
"And all of this?" I motioned at the lounge area.
"A birthday present from Olly and Melissa. Olly detests traveling commercial with the unwashed masses."
"I didn't have him pegged as a snob."
"Oh, he can definitely be a snob about certain things," Bones laughed. "Air travel is one of them. If you haven't figured it out by now, we're not exactly flying EasyJet."
"Believe it or not, I do know how to use my loaf on occasion," I muttered.
-X-
Shortly thereafter, Bones and I were driven in a Jaguar XJ a short distance onto the tarmac where a Cessna Citation XLS+ was parked with a red carpet laid out before the air stairs leading up to the aircraft.
"Welcome Mr. Blackwood Reed and Ms. Dawes. I'm Captain Mayberry and this is First Officer Thornton," the plane's Captain introduced. "We are delighted to have you on board today. "Nina, will be your flight attendant. Please do not hesitate to inform us if there is anything, we can do to make your flight more enjoyable for you."
"Thank you," I gave a shy smile, before following Bones up the steps and onto the plane.
-X-
Having travelled primarily on military aircraft, or in economy class, except for the one time Charles had upgraded our tickets to Tanzania to business class, I was in no way prepared for the sheer grandness of this private jet. It had sleek interior finishes with six extra-wide bisque coloured leather reclining seats, plush carpeting, a side-facing couch, a spacious lavatory, and a deluxe refreshment centre. The plane also came equipped with its own wi-fi system.
"You do realise your family has more money than sense," I remarked once we were buckled into our seats and Nina had gone to sit in the cockpit for take-off. "I cannot believe your brother would splash out on something like this."
"Believe it," Bones chuckled. "Olly would never survive being on a Hercules," Bones referred to the military transport aircraft the Army often used. "As for splashing out, I can assure you he's not breaking the bank for this flight."
"How so?" I raised an eyebrow at Bones.
"A few years ago, he purchased fractional ownership of a private jet owned and operated by a company called NetJets. This allows him to own a portion of an airplane without having to make a large capital outlay. NetJets has a fleet of private aircraft and his ownership share guarantees him access to an aircraft anywhere in the world whenever he requires one. NetJets performs all of the required maintenance and also provides the crew. Being that it is your birthday, Olly thought you might enjoy the treat."
"It was extremely thoughtful of him, even if I do think this whole fractional ownership business is a bit mental. I also have to admit that this is a hell of a lot nicer than a Hercules," I smiled at Bones.
-X-
"Now that we are in the air, do you think you could at least tell me our destination?"
"Naples, Italy," Bones informed me. "We'll be spending the next five days on the Amalfi Coast."
"Seriously?" I looked at Bones with astonishment. I had wanted to visit the Amalfi Coast since I had first learned about it from Jacqueline, but unfortunately had never made it south of Rome.
"Seriously," Bones smirked. "Mum insists it is one of the most romantic places in the world, and I figured that it wouldn't hurt to start this whole boyfriend thing out right by accepting her recommendation. Jackie assures me that you've never been."
"She's right," I confirmed, before suddenly thinking about work. "I'm supposed to be at work on Monday."
"Jackie took care of it with your C.O. You don't have to be back until next Wednesday."
"What about you? Can you take time off on such short notice? It won't hurt your promotion will it?"
"Not at all, Poppet. I rarely take leave and am well overdue. Robbie nearly fell out of her chair when I asked her to coordinate my leave."
"Now, that I would have liked to have witnessed," I laughed.
-X-
Nearly three hours later, Bones and I were seated in the back seat of a Mercedes S Class Sedan and were being driven from Naples International Airport to our hotel. I felt Bones lace his fingers into mine as I stared out the window taking in the sights that our chauffer was pointing out to us. I hadn't been on holiday since before Charles had jilted me. I turned my head away from the window to see Bones studying me and gave him happy smile, which prompted him to give me a genuine smile in return.
-X-
"To our left is Piazza Garibaldi, which is one of the largest squares in central Napoli," our driver announced. "It is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, who is considered one of the greatest generals in modern times. He commanded and fought in many military campaigns which led to the reunification of Italia. We consider him to be one of the fathers of our fatherland. You can see a statute of him, which was inaugurated in 1904."
"He was a highly skilled general," Bones remarked, clearly familiar with him. "I first learned about him at Sandhurst," he explained to me. "Since then, I've read several books about him."
"You'll have to tell me more about him," I suggested, always eager to learn new things.
"Coming up on our right," our driver motioned to a historic church, "is Santa Maria Egiziaca a Forcella. It is built in a Baroque-style and was originally built in 1342, before being reconstructed in 1500 and again in 1684."
"It's beautiful," I commented, impressed by the city's history.
"Now, we are passing the University of Napoli Federico II. It was founded in 1224, and is the oldest public non-sectarian university in the world. It is also considered one of the best universities in Italia," our driver boasted. "On our left, you will start to see the Port of Napoli, which is one of the largest seaports in the Mediterranean Sea basin," he continued.
"Is that a castle?" I asked our chauffer as we approached what appeared to be a historic castle located near the Port.
"Yes, it is Castel Nuovo, which means 'new castle' in English. It is a medieval castle and is located in front of City Hall. It was first erected in 1279, and is one of the main architectural landmarks in Napoli. It was a seat for the kings of Napoli, Aragon, and Spain until 1815. Today it serves as the headquarters for the Neapolitan Society of Homeland History."
"Isn't this incredible?" I turned to Bones in amazement.
"Yes," he squeezed my hand, clearly pleased that I was enjoying myself.
-X-
Soon, we slowed to a halt in front of an opulent hotel located on the waterfront opposite of the Castel dell'Ovo, which our driver kindly pointed out to us.
"The castle was built by the Normans in the 12th century and is Napoli's oldest castle. Its name means 'Castle of the Egg' in English and owes its name to the poet, Virgil. He reputedly buried an egg on the site where the castle now stands, and warned that when the egg breaks, the castle and Napoli will both fall."
"Fortunately, both are still standing," I gave a warm laugh.
"We have now arrived at the Grand Hotel Vesuvio, Mr. Blackwood Reed and Ms. Dawes," our chauffer announced.
"This is our hotel?" I turned to Bones in surprise.
"Yes," he grinned, as our driver opened my door, for us to exit the vehicle.
-X-
Upon exiting the Mercedes, Bones and I were immediately welcomed to the Grand Hotel Vesuvio by the hotel's General Manager, Signore Valenti.
"Welcome to the Grand Hotel Vesuvio, Mr. Blackwood Reed and Ms. Dawes."
"Thank you," I smiled, trying my best not to be intimated by my surroundings.
"It is an honour to have you as our guests. If you will please follow me, I will show you to your suite immediately," Signore Valenti instructed as Bones reached for my hand and led me towards two uniformed doormen who were holding the doors to the hotel open for us.
-X-
The hotel lobby had the feel of Old-World elegance. It featured marble hallways, Murano glass chandeliers, potted palms, antiques, oriental rugs, and draped curtains. It seemed like the type of establishment frequented by royalty, heads of state, and movie stars.
Rather than escort us to the reception desk to check in, the Signore Valenti ushered us into an elevator where he used a special key for the top floor. I suspected that Bones was splashing out in a big way. I couldn't help but feel uncomfortable that he was going to such expense on my behalf when it was completely unnecessary.
"Welcome to you your suite Mr. Blackwood Reed & Ms. Dawes," the general manager opened the door to a spacious sitting room and motioned for us to proceed him into the suite.
-X-
To say I was gobsmacked by my surroundings was an understatement. The suite was decorated in a classic Empire-style with duck-egg blue and pale lemon-yellow walls, honey coloured parquet floors, antique furniture, opulent Italian brocade fabrics, and Murano glass chandeliers. I had never been in such a luxurious hotel room in my life.
Walking towards the bedroom window, I discovered two glass doors leading out onto a large terrace overlooking the Gulf of Naples. The view was magnificent.
"Well?" Bones came up behind me and wrapped his arms around my waist.
"Well what?" I turned my head to look up at him.
"Do you like it?"
"Of course, I bloody well like it," I giggled. "Although I must admit there is a part of me that thinks you've lost the plot by splashing out on all of this. The Travelodge would have suited me just fine."
"Fortunately for me, there are no Travelodges in Naples," Bones smirked.
"Seriously, there's no need to go to all of this expense. If you haven't figured it out by now, I have zero interest in your bank balance. In all honestly, I find fact that you're minted a bit intimidating at times."
"I'm well aware of the fact that you would prefer it if I were skint, Poppet. I also like the fact that you fancy me as a man and not my bank balance. That being said, I tend to value creature comforts when I'm off duty, and see no harm in using my money to indulge in them when the opportunity presents itself. I know that my wealth can be a bit off-putting, but it is something you are going to have to learn to accept for this to work between us. "
"I know," I conceded. "It's just going to take some adjustment on my part. However, I'm warning you mate, I expect us to do 'normal' things on this holiday, too. Things, that's don't involve swish hotels and private jets."
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Bones promised before giving me a reassuring kiss.
-X-
A few minutes later, Bones led me back into the sitting room where a variety of beautifully wrapped presents were sitting on an antique table next to a colourful flower arrangement.
"Would you like to open your birthday presents?"
"Bones!" I protested in disbelief.
"Relax, Poppet. Not all of them are from me. I promise," he gently steered me towards the settee in front of the table.
"W-who are they from?" I questioned with bewilderment after sitting down next to him.
"You'll see," he smirked, before handing me a box to open.
-X-
"Who's it from?" Bones asked after I opened the card that was attached to the box.
"Jackie," I smiled in relief, before carefully tearing the gift wrap off the box.
"Your best mate has good taste," Bones complimented, as I held up a triangle bikini top in olive green with matching low-rise bikini briefs with understated ribbon ties on the sides.
"Very funny," I rolled my eyes at him and showed him a second leopard print bikini with a bandeau style top and low-rise Brazilian styled briefs.
"I believe this goes with Jackie's gift," Bones handed me a second box wrapped in the same gift wrap.
"I think Jacs is trying to send a message," I chuckled. The second box contained a high-cut black one piece with a plunging neckline and lace up sides, a black linen cover-up, a new pair of Havaianas, and a floppy straw sunhat.
-X-
After opening Jackie's gift, I opened a smile box containing a handmade friendship bracelet made by Mia and Emma. I insisted that Bones put it on me and snap a quick photo to send to his nieces. I then opened the card contained in the floral arrangement to find that it was from Bones's parents. Unlike the arrangement I had received earlier in the day, this arrangement was more than welcome. I was now left with three boxes to open.
"I believe you are supposed to open this one first," Bones offered as he handed me a large box with a card attached.
"It's from Max and Jack," I looked up at Bones in surprise.
"They adore you Molly."
"Did you tell them about us?"
"Yes," Bones confirmed. "They were very pleased to hear that I no longer warranted a swift kick up the arse."
"Bones, what is this?" I was shocked to find a stunning sleeveless, black midi dress in stretch crepe fabric. The dress boasted a sweetheart neckline, tailored seeming, and a back-zip closure.
"I believe it is a frock," Bones offered in a deadpan manner.
"Of course, it is a frock," I shook my head in exasperation. "This is by Victoria Beckham, Bones. Why on earth would they go to the expense of purchasing me a designer dress?"
"You seem to be forgetting that this is Max, we're talking about," Bones reminded with a grin. "You know the man is incapable of doing anything by halves. He also thought you should enjoy wearing something special to dinner on your birthday."
"We're going out to dinner?" I asked in surprise.
"Of course, we're going to dinner. Did you expect me to let you starve on your birthday?" Bones rolled his eyes at me, before handing me the second box that accompanied the dress. "Max indicated that this goes with the dress."
-X-
"You're right," I chuckled. "Max certainly does not do things by halves," I observed after opening the second box to find a pair of black, snakeskin open toed, stiletto, slingback sandals and a small black leather clutch. "He certainly thinks of everything."
"Not everything," Bones smirked, before handing me the final giftbox. "Max indicated that you would need something to wear under your dress. While he might be gay, I draw the line at another man buying you knickers."
"Oh," I blushed at the thought that Bones had purchased lingerie for me. I opened the box and to find a sheer embroidered, black, tulle thong with a low rise cut and detailed scalloped edging paired with a matching bra.
"Hopefully it will suffice," Bones watched me carefully.
"It should," I gave Bones a shy smile as I hoped he wouldn't end up being disappointed later. I didn't exactly have the body of a Page Three lingerie model.
-X-
After opening my presents, Bones arranged for our clothes to be pressed for dinner and offered to take a shower so that I could telephone Jackie in privacy.
"Hiya, birthday girl!" Jackie greeted me.
"Hiya, Jacs," I smiled at the sound of my best mate's voice.
"How is Naples?"
"Beautiful. Thank you for the birthday gifts."
"I had to make sure you looked sexy on the beach with Captain Scrummy," Jackie giggled. "Even you know that the swimwear in your wardrobe has seen better days."
"I appreciate you looking out for me, Jacs, and also for packing for me. You wouldn't believe the posh hotel we are staying at. It is O.T.T. I wish Bones didn't feel the need to splash out like this…"
"Molls," Jackie interrupted my musings, "Have you stopped to think that maybe Bones is doing this because he wants to make your birthday special for you, and that this is the only way he knows how?"
"But…."
"It's the truth, Molls. It was evident to me when he asked for my help in planning your birthday, that he cares for you deeply, and that his primary objective was to make it as special as possible for you."
"I had no idea. Part of me worried that maybe he was just trying to show off," I confessed.
"He's not, Molls. So, instead of giving yourself collywobbles and filling yourself with self-doubt, enjoy this for what it is. Besides, the past two years have been utter crap. Why not let go of your inhibitions and enjoy a romantic holiday with a man who is clearly crazy about you. If anyone deserves it, it is you."
"You're right, Jacs," As usual, Jackie's advice was spot on. "I'm so glad I rang you."
"Now, will you please enjoy yourself?" Jackie urged.
"Yes," I gave a confident smile. "I will make every effort to enjoy myself." Jackie was right. It was time I put my reservations aside, and enjoyed myself on the first holiday I had taken in quite some time.
-X-
"You look gorgeous, Poppet," Bones complimented when I entered the sitting room before dinner. I had to admit, Max had chosen well.
"You look rather fit yourself," I offered, as I took in his classically tailored grey suit crafted in lightweight wool. He'd left his suit jacket unbuttoned and the top three buttons of his white dress shirt underneath undone. Bones had paired his suit with a pair of black leather loafers. I suspected that both his suit and shoes cost more than my monthly salary.
"Being that we're in Italy, I thought it was only fitting I pack my Armani," Bones commented, causing me to roll my eyes at him.
"What exactly do your squaddies think of your penchant for toffee nosed labels?" I wondered.
"They know better than to comment on my attire," Bones retorted. "As much as I would like to stay here and have my way with you, I think it's best we leave for dinner," he advised before leading me out of our suite.
-X-
Minutes later, Bones and I were seated at the Caruso Roof Garden Restaurant which was located atop our hotel. Our table was located outside on an alfresco dining terrace, and had unbelievable panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples.
For our meal, we had elected to go with the chef's tasting menu which included a marinated bonito with caper yogurt, bruschetta and Mediterranean salad for our appetizer, goat's ricotta tortelli with eggplant and Sorrento tomatoes for our second course, and branzino with foraged herbs, peach and lettuce sauce for our main course. The sommelier had suggested we pair our meal with a Greco di Tufo, an Italian white wine, from the Feudi di San Gregorio Winery, which was located in the southern most region of Italy.
"Mum was chuffed when I told her that I planned to take you to the Amalfi Coast," Bones revealed after we had completed our second course.
"Was she?" I could only imagine Victoria's reaction.
"Let's just say all is tickety-boo in her world right now," Bones smirked. "She was chocka full of suggestions. Fortunately, my dad was able to convince her that I was on it like a car bonnet."
"I find it rather endearing, that even with your take no prisoners philosophy to life, you clearly adore your mum and aren't afraid to show it," I observed.
"She's blinding. I owe her so much," Bones offered. "She's also the only one capable of taking the mickey out of me."
"Why do you feel you owe her so much?"
"For one thing, she made sure that I didn't turn into some toffee-nosed git, or even worse, a bloody Rupert for that matter. It was very important to my mum that she instilled the values that her parents had taught her and Uncle Robbie. Mum is a firm believer in the dignity of hard work, the importance of education, and the importance of being chartable and helping those less fortunate. She made sure that Olly and I never took our family's wealth for granted and that we appreciated how fortunate our lives were in contrast to others. While it may seem like Mum is a lady who lunches, she is extremely active in several charitable endeavours and takes her responsibilities very seriously. She is also very active in the day-to-day management of Mulberry Estate and is one of the reasons it has been so successful in providing employment and important benefits in Winchcombe."
"She's certainly an incredible woman. What about your father? I've noticed that you do not seem as close to Arthur as you are to Victoria," I observed, hoping Bones would share some insights regarding his relationship with his father.
"My father and I are very different. As I am sure you've noticed, he's fairly reserved and definitely abides by the stiff upper lip stereotype. He seems happiest at his law chambers or overseeing the farm at Mulberry Estate. While he has never said it, I know that I disappointed him by choosing a career in the Army over a career in law or managing Mulberry Estate."
"Why do you think that?"
"As the oldest son, it's expected of me."
"I realise your family has a bleeding estate, but as you've reminded me, several times, it's not Downtown Abbey. Besides, it's not like your father has a bloody title. I'm sure he's tremendously proud of you," I countered, right as our waiter approached our table with our main course.
-X-
"What about your family?" Bones prompted. "Did you hear from them today?" he questioned once we had started on our main course.
"I spoke to my Mum and Nan briefly this morning," I responded, as I toyed with my fork.
"Why do I sense there is a reason for you always avoiding the subject of your family?"
"It's complicated."
"I imagine your childhood was difficult, but you should never be ashamed by your upbringing, Molly. I've told you this before, and I mean it," Bones reached for my hand, "I could care less that you were raised on a council estate or that your family has struggled financially."
"I know, it's just that my relationship with my parents has never been easy. I never realised this until I was older, but I think deep down I always wanted to be different from my parents. I didn't, and still don't, want to end up like my mum. She tries her best, but being saddled with seven kids, and a selfish dosser for a husband who would rather spend every waking minute getting mullered instead of doing an honest day's work, hasn't done her any favours. It wasn't until after I went to Afghan for the first time that she found the courage to train to be a teaching assistant at the local primary school."
"How did they feel about you enlisting?"
"I took them out for brekky and announced that that I had something to tell them. They naturally assumed I was pregnant. Never in their wildest dreams would they have ever thought I might do something like join the Army. In all honestly, I think they would have much preferred that I was pregnant. My dad told me that if I went ahead and enlisted that he and my mum would disown me."
"And did they?"
"Yes," I admitted. "I didn't see them again for over a year. Not only did they not even bother to tell me when my brother, Martin, was born, my dad refused to allow my mum to attend my passing out. I begged her to come, but she wouldn't go against my dad. I was the only recruit without my family there."
"Fucking hell," Bones looked furious.
"What about you?" I wondered. "How did your parents react when you decided to go to Sandhurst?"
"It was a bit of a foregone conclusion that I would attend Sandhurst. I had talked of nothing else since I was a young boy. My dad, however, insisted that I attend Uni before I applied to Sandhurst. It made sense to me at the time as more than eighty percent of the cadets entering Sandhurst are university graduates. If I am honest, though, I was thoroughly miserable at Uni."
"Why? I would have thought that someone with your background and intellect would have thrived at Uni."
"First, I hated living in London. I had spent most of my childhood in Winchcombe and then in Scotland for Gordonstoun. Going from a town of 4,500 people and a borough of less than 100,000 people, to living in London full-time left me feeling a bit shell shocked. I had spent time in London previously. My father maintains chambers in both Winchcombe and London, and my parents have a 10-bedroom detached house located on Phillimore Gardens in Kensington that backs up to Holland Park. However, I hated the being crammed into a city with 9 million other people. After living in Winchcombe and Scotland I found that I could not acclimate to the pollution, noise, crowds, traffic, and frantic way of life in London."
"You're certainly not cut out for Newham," I chuckled. "For the longest time, wide open spaces, trees, and fresh air gave me the willies," I confessed. "If I am honest, they still do."
"Not enough to prevent you from enjoying your weekend at Winchcombe," Bones gave me a knowing smirk.
"Perhaps it was the company."
"It better have been the company," he retorted.
"Getting back to your time at Uni, did you live on campus or at your parents' home?" I asked, curious to learn more about Bones's time in London.
"Neither. I tend to be a bit of a loner. Jack was at Oxford, and I knew my time in London was temporary. I also didn't want to deal with my mum meddling in my affairs. For these reasons, I decided to buy my own flat in Chelsea."
"At eighteen?" I looked aghast. His life was vastly different from mine.
"I used money from a trust that my grandparents had created for me. I thought it would be a solid investment, and it has been."
"Do you still own it?"
"Yes, but I sub-let it. I have no interest living in London. I much prefer splitting my time between Hereford and Winchcombe."
"How did you pass your time in London?"
"Outside of my studies at the LSE, I joined the Left Hook Boxing Gym in Shadwell, where I learned how to properly box and also began to box competitively."
"You actually went slumming in the East End?" I was impressed that he had ventured out of the confines of West London.
"Contrary to what you may believe, I'm not some toff. I quite enjoyed myself in Shadwell and even made friends at the gym. I also joined a Ju Jitsu club at the LSE and took up kickboxing. All proved instrumental in getting me into peak physical condition for The Regiment. I still practice all three today. The last thing I intend to do is to let my body go slack once I am promoted to Major."
"Somehow I cannot picture you doing that," Bones was way too fitness obsessed to ever let himself go.
"Enough about me. I want to hear more about your parents," Bones invited, clearly not about to let me off the hook.
"What else do you want to know?" I questioned.
"You mentioned that you were estranged from them for over a year. What made them come around?"
"My mum got fed up with my dad, and decided that he couldn't keep her from seeing me. She showed up at my garrison one day with my baby brother in tow full of apologies. It was shortly before I deployed to Afghan. Once I learned that I was going to Afghan I decided that my dad couldn't keep me from saying goodbye to my mum, Nan, and brothers and sisters. I spent my last few days in the UK in Newham. My dad didn't like and it and tried to ignore me, but my mum and Nan weren't having it. My mum, Nan, and my siblings sent letters to me in Afghan and things eventually sorted themselves out with my dad. I still to this day, don't think he understands why I enlisted or continue to serve in the Army, but he has accepted that I am not going to change my mind and that I have chosen a path different from his and that of my siblings. I have no desire to go back to the life that I left. The one thing the Army has taught me is that I am capable of more and that I can look after myself."
"You're right, Poppet. You are capable of so much more than your parents. As for looking after yourself, the jury's still out on that one," Bones smirked, causing me to scowl back at him. "I'm kidding," he chuckled. "You absolutely can look after yourself. You wouldn't be willing to take on a nutter like me if you weren't."
"I'm glad to see that we finally agree on something," I smiled back at him.
-X-
"What did your parents think of the Arsemonger?"
"They didn't know him that well. Between my studies, and his tours, there was little time for us to visit them. My mum and Nan focused on the superficial and let themselves be taken in by his looks and charm. They actually to this day, along with my sisters, think that I must somehow be to blame for Charles jilting me the way he did. My dad never really took to him. While he never said it until after the wedding, my dad apparently thought that I was aiming too high with a man like Charles and that Charles would eventually get fed up with a Cockney like me."
"I'm sorry to say this, Poppet, but your family are bloody fools if they think you deserved to be treated the way he treated you. They should be proud of the fact that you are an intelligent, generous, brave, and beautiful woman who would never do anything to deliberately hurt another person."
"You're embarrassing me, Bones," I blushed in protest.
"It's the truth, Molly. You're a bloody amazing woman and I am proud to call you my girlfriend," Bones declared before reaching across the table to give me a tender kiss.
-X-
"This has been a brilliant birthday, Bones," I complimented after we had finished our meal. "I cannot believe you did all of this for me.
"Believe it."
"Thank you for making this a birthday to remember."
"You're welcome, Poppet," Bones pulled his chair next to mine and draped his arm around my shoulders. "Now, close your eyes," he instructed. "I have one more surprise for you."
"You do?" I looked at him in surprise.
"Yes," He confirmed with a satisfied smile, before placing his hand over my eyes.
-X-
"You can open them now," Bones offered, prompting me to open my eyes and to find myself staring at an amazing puffed pastry cake topped with chocolates, cream, seasonal berries, and four sparkling candles waiting to be blown out.
"Smile," Bones requested before he surprised me by snapping a picture of me with my cake. "Are you going to make a wish?"
"Yes," I gave Bones a wide smile, before secretly wishing for many more happy adventures with him.
"Happy Birthday, Molly," Bones gave me a sweet kiss once I had blown out the candles.
"Thank you," I beamed at him.
"I know the last thing you want is another gift, but I couldn't resist," Bones reached into his suitcoat and retrieved an envelope.
"Bones isn't all of this enough of a birthday gift from you?" I shook my head in exasperation.
"Perhaps, but I wanted to give you one final gift," he announced as he handed me the envelope.
-X-
I carefully opened the envelope to find a birthday card inside, signed by Bones. Inside the card, was a second envelope. Not knowing what to expect, I was stunned to find a printed confirmation that two tickets had been purchased for West Ham United's game against Manchester United in October at London Stadium.
"Bones, how on earth did you get these? They are nearly impossible to come by."
"Am I to assume that they meet with your approval?"
"Of course, they meet with my approval. They're the dog's bollocks!"
"There is one requirement," Bones indicated.
"What's that?"
"You bring me as your plus one."
"You can come on one condition," I warned.
"And that is?"
"You don't even consider rooting for Man Utd. As far as I am concerned, rooting for any footie team other than my irons is blasphemy."
"Noted," Bones chuckled. "As much as I would love taking the piss by rooting for Man Utd., I will behave myself and root for your irons."
"Thank you," I smiled, before pecking Bones on the cheek. This was turning out to be the best birthday ever.
-X-
As we walked back to our suite an hour later, I noticed Bones glance over at me with a look of uninhibited intensity. I felt my face redden and my heart skip a beat as my gaze collided with his smouldering green eyes. He gave me a slow, sensual smile in return.
I couldn't help but feel my insides quiver as I watched him unlock the door to our suite. Bones motioned for me to proceed him into the sitting room, and quickly closed the distance between us. Feeling as if he would pounce on me any minute, I backed myself up against the wall.
"You're so fucking hot," Bones breathed as he came closer and braced his hands against the wall on each side of my face. "You drive me crazy," he swore before capturing my lips in a kiss full of fiery passion.
I moaned with excitement as his mouth continued to torment mine and clenched his shoulders fiercely. Soon, his hand was reaching under my dress and I felt him rip my thong out of his way. He then fell to his knees, lifted the hem of my dress out of his way, and buried his mouth in my feminine core.
"Bones!" I cried out as I spread my fingers wildly into his tousled hair. Never had I felt so aroused and desperate for a man's touch.
"Do you like that?" Bones paused, looking up at me.
"Yes! Don't stop," I gasped, before he resumed his ministrations and sent me spiralling into ecstasy.
-X-
Brussels, Belgium
Returning back to my flat, which overlooked Bois de la Cambre Park, I took off my jacket, yanked off my tie, and rolled up my sleeves. It has been a long and frustrating day, only made worse by the fact that I hadn't heard from Molly. In, my arrogance, I hadn't believed her when she had texted me a day earlier to tell me that she didn't want me to visit her in Birmingham, and that she didn't want to see me again. I thought that by sending her flowers today, and reminding her that I loved her, it would soften her heart, and make her reconsider. Instead, I had been met by complete silence.
I reached into my refrigerator and opened a bottle of Stella Artois, before heading over to my sitting room window and looking out at the park.
It sickened me to think that at this very moment she could be celebrating her birthday with Bones. The arrogant bastard had no business being with Molly. He was a serial womanizer who only gave a damn about himself. Bones also had plenty of reasons to hate me. There was only one reason and one reason alone that a selfish arse like Bones would give Molly the time of day, and that was revenge.
While, I knew that it was unlikely that Molly would ever forgive me for the horrible things I had done to her, and the horrible way I had treated her, I couldn't bear to see her hurt again because of me. I didn't think I could live with the guilt that, yet again, I had been the cause of her pain. For this reason, I know that I could no longer stand back and let others act on my behalf. It was time I stopped being the bloody coward I had become, and put a stop to her relationship with Bones. While Molly might hate me for interfering, she would thank me once she realised what Bones's true intentions really were.