Chapter 9: Little black clouds
The journey home seemed to take ages. Susan spent most of it in and out of sleep, Mark spent most of it being worried about her. Not only had her father died but her sister was dying too. He knew Susan would be worrying most about little Susie, at least she was in her 'fathers' care. Mark knew Joe would look after her.
Mark pulled into his drive and woke Susan.
"Hey. I thought it would be a good idea if I stayed with you a while. Just need to grab some more stuff. You ok here or do you want to come in?" Mark asked
"Can I come up? I need to use the bathroom." Susan replied quietly
"Sure" Mark answered as he helped Susan out of the car. She had barely eaten for three days. He knew that if she didn't eat soon she was going to collapse. He needed to get her away from all this. She needed a vacation, she was a wreck, emotionally, physically and mentally.
When they got inside, Susan tripped over the edge of the blanket hanging on the couch. She fell the floor with a massive thud. Mark quickly dashed over to her.
"Hey are you ok? Come on up on the couch" Mark said as he lifted her up
Susan held her head in her hands and began to sob.
"Mark I can't take this. I'm usually so composed, but this is all too much. My father is dead, my sister is dying and I'm so worried about Susie. I know Joe will take care of her, but she's going to grow up without a mom. All these little black clouds are circling in my head and I just want to get rid of them. This isn't me. This isn't Susan Lewis, I want me back. I want to smile again. Mark help me? Please?" Susan begged
"I'm here for you Susan, I'm not going anywhere. Do you fancy a vacation? The Bahamas perhaps? I think it's important you get away from everything. Work, home, the stress of being here." Mark replied as he hugged Susan
"That would be great. When can we go?" Susan asked hopefully.
"I know someone that can probably get us a late deal. Want me to call him now?" Mark asked
"Yes please. The sooner I get away the better. You will come with me won't you?" Susan replied
"Of course I will." Mark said as he picked up the phone
*Phone call*
"Hey Jake, its Mark Greene here. Look I need a favour. Do you have any late deals to the Bahamas?"
"Um let me just have a look... Err there's a flight going out tomorrow actually. Leaves at 6.30am." Jake replied.
"That's great. I'd like two tickets. Does that include accommodation?" Mark asked
"Yup 14 nights in 4 star, right on the beach" Jake answered
"Great. I'll take it. Can you American Express over the phone?" Mark enquired
"Sure. You just need to arrive at the airport 2 and a half hours before departure, your tickets will be waiting. Luggage shouldn't exceed 40lbs each" Jake gave Mark all the relevant details
"Thanks Jake I owe you" Mark said as he put the phone down and turned to Susan
"We leave tomorrow, got to be at the airport at 4am. I'll ring Kerry. We're going to the Bahamas." Mark told Susan
Susan managed a slight smile and went to pack, Mark called Kerry and although she was in no way happy about it she could hardly say no, Mark didn't even give her the chance.
Mark arranged for a taxi to pick him and Susan up at 2.30am. Mark didn't feel like sleeping, but Susan had a little nap on the couch while Mark watched TV.
At 2.35am the taxi came and for the first time in days Susan had a bit of colour and looked slightly relaxed, even though Mark knew she wasn't the world's greatest fan of flying.
After they had checked their bags in and collected boarding passes they made their way through to all the shops and bars.
"I'm really thirsty, can we grab a drink. I'm quite hungry too." Susan said
Mark smiled as he felt relieved that for the first time in ages Susan had said she was hungry.
They made their way to a restaurant/bar. Susan picked up the menu and looked longingly at the BLT bap that met her eyes.
The waitress came over and asked for Mark and Susan's order
"Um I'll have a BLT and a Pepsi please" Susan said
"I'll have the same please" Mark answered
Mark leant across the table and took Susan's hand, their eyes met and Mark uttered the words that hadn't been said for a few days.
"I love you Susan and I'm always here for you." Mark said
"Aww Mark thank-you. I love you more than words can say. I really appreciate you being here for me." Susan replied
"I've been so worried about you and I know the pain is still there but I hope this holiday helps you." Mark answered
"It's helping already, just to have you here." Susan said just as the waitress brought the food over.
Susan immediately tucked into her roll but felt a wave of nausea sweep over her. She took a deep breath as Mark watched her closely.
"I'm ok. Just felt a little sick. This roll is good though, can't waste it" Susan said taking a sip of Pepsi
As the two of them finished their meal they heard their flight being called, they hadn't realised how long they had been in the bar. They picked up their hand luggage and Mark took Susan's hand, he kissed it and they made their way to the gate.
When they got there the stewardesses were boarding the plane by row number. Mark and Susan were sat near to the back in row 34. So far only rows 1-10 had been boarded. A slightly worried look came over Susan's face.
"Are you ok?" Mark asked
"Hmm? Oh yeah don't worry I'm fine." Susan said as she stared through the large glass window at the plane they were going to board.
"You're still a little afraid of flying aren't you?" Mark asked
"Just a little, but I'm much better than I was. At least I won't hyperventilate this time" Susan replied
Over the tannoy came the call for rows 30-40. Mark and Susan stood up, Mark put a comforting arm around her as they made their way down the corridor that was attached the plane. They had to wait for a few moments before actually getting on the plane. Once they were on, Susan settled into her seat and looked out of the window then turned round to Mark.
"I'm really looking forward to this holiday. It means we can spend some quality time together, just you and me" Susan said as she went to hold Marks hand
"I can't wait to have you all to myself. But understand this holiday is to relax, and we'll just take it at your pace" Mark replied
"You're so sweet, guess that's just one of the reasons I love you." Susan answered.
"Yeah I'm great aren't I?" Mark said with a little grin.
"Oh yeah and modest too" Susan giggled.
It was great to see her starting to relax. Mark could still see the pain in her eyes, it would take time before they would smile again, but her body language reflected that of a person beginning to move on.
Susan actually seemed to enjoy the flight. She spent most of it with the headphones on watching tv or listening to music whilst resting her head on Marks shoulder. They held hands throughout the flight, with Susan's grip becoming just a little tighter when they went through a spot of turbulence.
Every now and again Mark would look at Susan, smile and kiss her head. He loved being with her. They had only been together about 2 weeks but everything in this relationship felt right. It felt solid. Mark wanted to talk to Susan about the future but he'd see what frame of mind she was in after a few days in the sun.
When they landed they stepped off the plane into the blazing sun. They both laughed a little
"Definitely makes a difference from Chicago" Mark said
"Yeah. It's much nicer" Susan replied
"Apparently we should have a cab waiting to take us to the hotel. Some guy should be holding a board up saying Greene/Lewis." Mark said
"We'll worry about that when we've got our luggage. I don't want to be left without clothes." Susan answered as she slipped her arm through Marks.
They had to wait a long time for their luggage but after about half an hour they went in search of their cab driver. They found him outside smoking a cigarette whilst leaning on his cab.
"Greene and Lewis? I'm Johnnie, I'm you're driver. I take it you're staying at the Bahama Beach Palace. It's a great place, nice and relaxing, right on the beach." The cab driver said
"Sounds perfect" Susan replied as she got into the taxi. She left Mark and the driver to put the bags in the trunk.
It took about forty-five minutes to get to the hotel but that didn't matter. Mark and Susan sat comfortably in the back with arms around each other. They were a bit hot as coming from Chicago they had worn t-shirt and jeans.
They checked in and had their things taken up to the room. They hotel was lovely and they had a view right out to sea, over the sandy expanses of the beach.
It was now 1pm and they were both kind of peckish again. They decided to change into their swim wear and go and get something to eat at the pool bar.
When Mark saw Susan in her bikini he couldn't hide his delight and went straight up to her, wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her.
Susan responded just as Mark wanted her to, and the couple postponed lunch for a little while as they made love for only the second time since they had been together. This time Mark exposed the side Susan had been waiting to see. He was very passionate but was still gentle. It didn't last as long as before but they were both left feeling very satisfied none the less.
"I enjoyed that a lot." Susan said as she put her bikini back on. "Helped take my mind of things, and as well as that it felt so good!" She added as a small smile crept across her face.
"Mmmmm I thought so too" said Mark as he searched the floor for his swimming shorts.
When he found them they took their towels down to the pool and went up to the bar. Susan settled for a Tuna salad and Mark went for a huge burger. They sat on sun loungers as they waited for their food to come.
Susan looked over at Mark from behind her sunglasses. As she did she thought to herself
"I am so lucky to have Mark. I want this to last. I want to be with him forever."
After their lunch came Susan turned to Mark
"Hey fancy a dip?" She asked
"Oh go on then. You first!" Mark said as he pushed Susan in.
"Hey that's not fair!" Susan screamed as she threw water over Mark
After that Mark cautiously entered the pool with chastising from Susan
"What you afraid it's cold or something? Get in you wuss!"
When Mark got in he swam up to Susan and wrapped her around him. He then proceeded to throw her backwards towards the deep end!
She surfaced smoothing her hair back and with a devilish grin on her face.
"Oh you're in for it now!" She yelled
"Oh yeah?" Mark responded as Susan began to chase him
Just as she got close Mark reached out and scooped her up into a close embrace. They kissed amongst the small waves in the pool. They then proceeded to climb out.
Mark wrapped Susan up in his huge towels and ruffled her hair. She looked up and kissed his nose.
"I'm a bit sleepy, going for a nap. Want to join me?" Susan asked
"Ok then." Mark answered as they soggily made their way to their room. When they got up there Mark opened some doors which lead out onto a huge balcony. Mark laid a dry towel on a sun lounger that was positioned on the balcony. He lay down on it and gestured for Susan to come over.
She came and laid down with her back on his front. He wrapped his arms around her still wet body.
"So what's in store for us then?" Susan asked sleepily
"A lot. Susan, I know this may be a bit premature but I think this is going to last a long time. I'd like us to move in together. What do you think?" Mark replied
"I think it's perfect. I'd love us to move in together. I love you." Susan said just as she fell asleep.
The journey home seemed to take ages. Susan spent most of it in and out of sleep, Mark spent most of it being worried about her. Not only had her father died but her sister was dying too. He knew Susan would be worrying most about little Susie, at least she was in her 'fathers' care. Mark knew Joe would look after her.
Mark pulled into his drive and woke Susan.
"Hey. I thought it would be a good idea if I stayed with you a while. Just need to grab some more stuff. You ok here or do you want to come in?" Mark asked
"Can I come up? I need to use the bathroom." Susan replied quietly
"Sure" Mark answered as he helped Susan out of the car. She had barely eaten for three days. He knew that if she didn't eat soon she was going to collapse. He needed to get her away from all this. She needed a vacation, she was a wreck, emotionally, physically and mentally.
When they got inside, Susan tripped over the edge of the blanket hanging on the couch. She fell the floor with a massive thud. Mark quickly dashed over to her.
"Hey are you ok? Come on up on the couch" Mark said as he lifted her up
Susan held her head in her hands and began to sob.
"Mark I can't take this. I'm usually so composed, but this is all too much. My father is dead, my sister is dying and I'm so worried about Susie. I know Joe will take care of her, but she's going to grow up without a mom. All these little black clouds are circling in my head and I just want to get rid of them. This isn't me. This isn't Susan Lewis, I want me back. I want to smile again. Mark help me? Please?" Susan begged
"I'm here for you Susan, I'm not going anywhere. Do you fancy a vacation? The Bahamas perhaps? I think it's important you get away from everything. Work, home, the stress of being here." Mark replied as he hugged Susan
"That would be great. When can we go?" Susan asked hopefully.
"I know someone that can probably get us a late deal. Want me to call him now?" Mark asked
"Yes please. The sooner I get away the better. You will come with me won't you?" Susan replied
"Of course I will." Mark said as he picked up the phone
*Phone call*
"Hey Jake, its Mark Greene here. Look I need a favour. Do you have any late deals to the Bahamas?"
"Um let me just have a look... Err there's a flight going out tomorrow actually. Leaves at 6.30am." Jake replied.
"That's great. I'd like two tickets. Does that include accommodation?" Mark asked
"Yup 14 nights in 4 star, right on the beach" Jake answered
"Great. I'll take it. Can you American Express over the phone?" Mark enquired
"Sure. You just need to arrive at the airport 2 and a half hours before departure, your tickets will be waiting. Luggage shouldn't exceed 40lbs each" Jake gave Mark all the relevant details
"Thanks Jake I owe you" Mark said as he put the phone down and turned to Susan
"We leave tomorrow, got to be at the airport at 4am. I'll ring Kerry. We're going to the Bahamas." Mark told Susan
Susan managed a slight smile and went to pack, Mark called Kerry and although she was in no way happy about it she could hardly say no, Mark didn't even give her the chance.
Mark arranged for a taxi to pick him and Susan up at 2.30am. Mark didn't feel like sleeping, but Susan had a little nap on the couch while Mark watched TV.
At 2.35am the taxi came and for the first time in days Susan had a bit of colour and looked slightly relaxed, even though Mark knew she wasn't the world's greatest fan of flying.
After they had checked their bags in and collected boarding passes they made their way through to all the shops and bars.
"I'm really thirsty, can we grab a drink. I'm quite hungry too." Susan said
Mark smiled as he felt relieved that for the first time in ages Susan had said she was hungry.
They made their way to a restaurant/bar. Susan picked up the menu and looked longingly at the BLT bap that met her eyes.
The waitress came over and asked for Mark and Susan's order
"Um I'll have a BLT and a Pepsi please" Susan said
"I'll have the same please" Mark answered
Mark leant across the table and took Susan's hand, their eyes met and Mark uttered the words that hadn't been said for a few days.
"I love you Susan and I'm always here for you." Mark said
"Aww Mark thank-you. I love you more than words can say. I really appreciate you being here for me." Susan replied
"I've been so worried about you and I know the pain is still there but I hope this holiday helps you." Mark answered
"It's helping already, just to have you here." Susan said just as the waitress brought the food over.
Susan immediately tucked into her roll but felt a wave of nausea sweep over her. She took a deep breath as Mark watched her closely.
"I'm ok. Just felt a little sick. This roll is good though, can't waste it" Susan said taking a sip of Pepsi
As the two of them finished their meal they heard their flight being called, they hadn't realised how long they had been in the bar. They picked up their hand luggage and Mark took Susan's hand, he kissed it and they made their way to the gate.
When they got there the stewardesses were boarding the plane by row number. Mark and Susan were sat near to the back in row 34. So far only rows 1-10 had been boarded. A slightly worried look came over Susan's face.
"Are you ok?" Mark asked
"Hmm? Oh yeah don't worry I'm fine." Susan said as she stared through the large glass window at the plane they were going to board.
"You're still a little afraid of flying aren't you?" Mark asked
"Just a little, but I'm much better than I was. At least I won't hyperventilate this time" Susan replied
Over the tannoy came the call for rows 30-40. Mark and Susan stood up, Mark put a comforting arm around her as they made their way down the corridor that was attached the plane. They had to wait for a few moments before actually getting on the plane. Once they were on, Susan settled into her seat and looked out of the window then turned round to Mark.
"I'm really looking forward to this holiday. It means we can spend some quality time together, just you and me" Susan said as she went to hold Marks hand
"I can't wait to have you all to myself. But understand this holiday is to relax, and we'll just take it at your pace" Mark replied
"You're so sweet, guess that's just one of the reasons I love you." Susan answered.
"Yeah I'm great aren't I?" Mark said with a little grin.
"Oh yeah and modest too" Susan giggled.
It was great to see her starting to relax. Mark could still see the pain in her eyes, it would take time before they would smile again, but her body language reflected that of a person beginning to move on.
Susan actually seemed to enjoy the flight. She spent most of it with the headphones on watching tv or listening to music whilst resting her head on Marks shoulder. They held hands throughout the flight, with Susan's grip becoming just a little tighter when they went through a spot of turbulence.
Every now and again Mark would look at Susan, smile and kiss her head. He loved being with her. They had only been together about 2 weeks but everything in this relationship felt right. It felt solid. Mark wanted to talk to Susan about the future but he'd see what frame of mind she was in after a few days in the sun.
When they landed they stepped off the plane into the blazing sun. They both laughed a little
"Definitely makes a difference from Chicago" Mark said
"Yeah. It's much nicer" Susan replied
"Apparently we should have a cab waiting to take us to the hotel. Some guy should be holding a board up saying Greene/Lewis." Mark said
"We'll worry about that when we've got our luggage. I don't want to be left without clothes." Susan answered as she slipped her arm through Marks.
They had to wait a long time for their luggage but after about half an hour they went in search of their cab driver. They found him outside smoking a cigarette whilst leaning on his cab.
"Greene and Lewis? I'm Johnnie, I'm you're driver. I take it you're staying at the Bahama Beach Palace. It's a great place, nice and relaxing, right on the beach." The cab driver said
"Sounds perfect" Susan replied as she got into the taxi. She left Mark and the driver to put the bags in the trunk.
It took about forty-five minutes to get to the hotel but that didn't matter. Mark and Susan sat comfortably in the back with arms around each other. They were a bit hot as coming from Chicago they had worn t-shirt and jeans.
They checked in and had their things taken up to the room. They hotel was lovely and they had a view right out to sea, over the sandy expanses of the beach.
It was now 1pm and they were both kind of peckish again. They decided to change into their swim wear and go and get something to eat at the pool bar.
When Mark saw Susan in her bikini he couldn't hide his delight and went straight up to her, wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her.
Susan responded just as Mark wanted her to, and the couple postponed lunch for a little while as they made love for only the second time since they had been together. This time Mark exposed the side Susan had been waiting to see. He was very passionate but was still gentle. It didn't last as long as before but they were both left feeling very satisfied none the less.
"I enjoyed that a lot." Susan said as she put her bikini back on. "Helped take my mind of things, and as well as that it felt so good!" She added as a small smile crept across her face.
"Mmmmm I thought so too" said Mark as he searched the floor for his swimming shorts.
When he found them they took their towels down to the pool and went up to the bar. Susan settled for a Tuna salad and Mark went for a huge burger. They sat on sun loungers as they waited for their food to come.
Susan looked over at Mark from behind her sunglasses. As she did she thought to herself
"I am so lucky to have Mark. I want this to last. I want to be with him forever."
After their lunch came Susan turned to Mark
"Hey fancy a dip?" She asked
"Oh go on then. You first!" Mark said as he pushed Susan in.
"Hey that's not fair!" Susan screamed as she threw water over Mark
After that Mark cautiously entered the pool with chastising from Susan
"What you afraid it's cold or something? Get in you wuss!"
When Mark got in he swam up to Susan and wrapped her around him. He then proceeded to throw her backwards towards the deep end!
She surfaced smoothing her hair back and with a devilish grin on her face.
"Oh you're in for it now!" She yelled
"Oh yeah?" Mark responded as Susan began to chase him
Just as she got close Mark reached out and scooped her up into a close embrace. They kissed amongst the small waves in the pool. They then proceeded to climb out.
Mark wrapped Susan up in his huge towels and ruffled her hair. She looked up and kissed his nose.
"I'm a bit sleepy, going for a nap. Want to join me?" Susan asked
"Ok then." Mark answered as they soggily made their way to their room. When they got up there Mark opened some doors which lead out onto a huge balcony. Mark laid a dry towel on a sun lounger that was positioned on the balcony. He lay down on it and gestured for Susan to come over.
She came and laid down with her back on his front. He wrapped his arms around her still wet body.
"So what's in store for us then?" Susan asked sleepily
"A lot. Susan, I know this may be a bit premature but I think this is going to last a long time. I'd like us to move in together. What do you think?" Mark replied
"I think it's perfect. I'd love us to move in together. I love you." Susan said just as she fell asleep.