Wednesday, July 29th:

One week after Nikki left on patrol, Josh had his first encounter with a "casserole cougar". It was just past 4:00, Gale was napping, and Josh was just about to join her when he heard someone at the door. Slipping on his shirt but not bothering to button it, he goes to answer it … ( who could that be?)

Opening the door, he finds a stunning red-headed woman, who appeared to be in her thirties and wearing a low cut sundress. She's carrying a casserole dish and a bottle of wine.

"Uhhh, hi," he stammered. "Do you have the wrong door?"

"No… I don't believe I do. I'm Caroline, I live just down the street, and I couldn't help but notice that you are alone a lot... I've seen you walking with your little baby and down by the pool. So, I thought I would stop by to see if you'd like some company," said with a suggestive smile. "Have you had tea?"

"Uhhh, Caroline, is it?... I appreciate the offer of… a meal and some... company…" Josh forever trying to be polite.

"But, I'm married, you see. Very happily married."

"What I see is a very attractive man who is alone while his wife is off playing Sailor," she says cheekily.

"Okay...Caroline...look...I love my wife. So, I assume that we're neighbours? Let's just say this encounter never happened," waving his hand back and forth between them. "You should return to where you came from. Enjoy your wine and dinner." Irritated, he retreated back into the house, closed the door and stood in the entryway totally dumbfounded. (wonder if Navy wives have to put up with that bullshit...I'll have to ask Sally. Hope the vamp spreads the word to her feline friends that there's nothing to find here.)

Returning upstairs, knowing now there wouldn't be a nap, he went to the kitchen, got a beer and returned to his chair on the balcony. While sitting in his lounge, sipping his beer, his thoughts go to Nikki...(not going to be telling Nikki about this until she gets home... don't want to have her worrying over nothing.)

Grabbing his laptop, he sent her a quick email. *Hi Babe, Sitting here missing you. If you can skype later, drop me a message. Hugs, Love you. ️*

An hour later, his laptop alerted to a message. * 1930… Love you!*

Josh had finished making a salad, and the Lasagna he had taken from the freezer was finished warming. Setting his dinner on a tray with another beer, he took his supper outside.

At 6:00, right on cue, Gale woke for her change and a bottle. After feeding her, she got her bath, and then they went to wait for mommy's call.

"Hey, Babe, busy day?" Josh said as he opened the video chat screen."

"Hi, Luv. Yeah, we chased down a mothership."

"Sweet! Everything go okay?"

"Dutchy and gang ran into a bit of resistance, but it turned out alright. We have the crew in Austere. Kingston is on their way in, so we'll be transferring them over. Kate has a couple of Sailors bringing the ship in."

"I have to admit that I worry less knowing that you aren't directly involved with those boardings. It would just kill me with worry if you were." Then chuckling, " Dr Holmes would have to medicate me."

"No worries, I'm safe and cozy on the bridge with Kate and RO watching from the sidelines. Now hold our beautiful baby up more so I can see her."

Smiling, "Better?"

"Much," Nikki started talking to her, "Hey, baby girl, are you being good for Daddy?" Gale began waving and kicking at the sound of Nikki's voice. Watching her was pulling at her heart, she was missing her, and her antics were making her laugh and cry at the same time.

"Just one more week, Luv. Any word on how long shore leave will be?"

"Last I heard, 10 days."

"That's awesome!"

They talked and played with Gale for another 15 minutes before saying good night, both shutting their laptops with a sigh.

On Hammersley, Nikki settled at her desk to start on her reports while at home Josh turned on the TV then laid down on the couch with Gale cuddled on his chest as he settled in to watch one of his favourite shows...Reef Diving Adventures. It wasn't too long before they were both asleep.

That Saturday, Nikki told Josh in her email that they would be in port 2 days earlier than expected as they were towing an FFV back to Cairns.

*I'll let you know when we are a couple of hours out.* she wrote. *This isn't going to affect our shore leave; in fact, we get two extra days if we don't crash sail.*

Josh heard his laptop ping, signalling an email. Surprised, he opened his email and saw one from Nikki. (she doesn't usually write until evening...huh...wonder what's up.) Reading the message, he started grinning like a fool. Picking up Gale and giving her a kiss, he started bouncing around the living room like a little kid, all the while sporting a silly grin. "Mommy's coming home!"

Later after feeding Gale her nooner, as he likes to call it, he put her down for a nap and retreated to his favourite lounge chair with his kindle and a beer.

After re-reading the same paragraph 3 times, he gave up, realizing that he was too distracted to read. (I want to do something special for Nikki…) Then an idea popped into his head and he started to work out the details.

Gale woke about an hour later, and Josh got her ready to go out. "Little Poppet, we're off to work on a surprise for Mummy," kissing her head.

Josh pulled into the car park at the commercial pier. After getting Gale settled in her stroller, he set off for International Aquarium Suppliers (I.A.S.), a tropical fish wholesaler that he had met when he was diving for those mongrels, the Robson's. Fortunately, I.A.S had only bought fish and coral from them and had nothing to do with Robson's oil skimming scheme.

Josh opened the door to the front office and was surprised to see that Joel, the owner, happened to be there.

"Oi! Look what the sea just washed up! Good to see ya, Mate! Heard you had quite an adventure," clasping Josh's hand and giving him a back slap at the same time.

"Joel, Mate! It's good to see you too!."

"So, what brings you to my very worthy establishment?"

"I was hoping that you would be able to help me with a gift for my very lovely and special wife."

"Married are ya now!"

"Yup, almost a year."

"And who is this lovely little mermaid?"

"This is Gale, our daughter."

"So, you've got the 'Daddy duty'."

"Well, technically, I guess. Nikki's an LT in the Navy. She's currently out on patrol."

"What about you, are you working? You left the Navy, I take it?"

"Yup, outta the Navy and taking care of our little Poppet. I left the Navy a little over a year ago."

"So, Mate, what can I help you with?"

Josh explained how he had proposed to Nikki and then how the Blake's little girl had been looking after their fish while they were missing. "We let Chloe keep him. She became quite attached. I want to give Nikki another one. I caught that one for her when I was diving for Robson. I would like to have a new tank set up before she gets home on Thursday."

"Not a problem. Let's go see what I've got."

Josh found the perfect clownfish and some coral.

"What size tank are you getting?"

"Just a 20 L ( 5 gals) to start. I'm going to head over to Rumford's Aquarium when I leave here and get a complete setup."

"Good enough. I'll get the little fella ready for ya. Come by anytime tomorrow after you are all set up."

"Joel, that's fantastic, Mate. Thank you. How much do I owe you?"

"On the house for a fellow marine diver. We're good."

"Thank you. I'll be by tomorrow, 11:00, okay?"

"That'll do. See ya then."

Josh shook his hand and then headed for the car.

Snugging Gale into her car seat, "All right, Poppet, next stop the aquarium."

Parking the car, he took Gale out of the car while still in her car seat and then positioned it on the front of the shopping cart. She loved looking around the store and at the lights, kicking and waving her arms.

"Here we go, let's find some cool stuff for Mummsy." Loading up the trolley, he found the perfect 20 L tank that came with a light and filter. Then he added an air pump and stone, bottom rocks and some plants. He also found a cool rock tunnel for the fish to swim through, all the while chattering to Gale. Finally, food and water test kits and a book on saltwater fish care.

Returning to the front of the store, he paid for everything. "Time to go and play Poppet. This is going to be fun. Let's get you home and get this little project underway."

He made one more stop, the home improvement store, purchased two 20L buckets with covers and a small 1.5L pail for tank maintenance.

Josh pulled into the garage and brought Gale in for a change, then he rocked her while she had a bottle. She was just about asleep when she finished, and he placed her gently into her cot.

Now returning to the car, he brought everything in, setting it all on the kitchen table. He went out to the balcony to read with a brew and the book he had bought about saltwater tanks.

Josh was falling asleep while reading when he sat straight up. "What a dolt I am!" he said out loud. "I need a table to set the tank on!" (There's a bargain shop near the mall, have to check that out after Gail wakes up).

Getting up, he puts his cup in the washer then starts unpacking all of the things he bought. Placing the empty tank on the kitchen table, he went about setting it up, aquarium rocks on the bottom, the tunnel… the plants go in after there's water. He set up the filter and placed the airstone and pump.

(good to go...just needs water and Lance II)

Thinking for a moment, he got out his phone and called Sally.

"Hey, Josh! How're things?"

"Things are good, Sal, but I miss her terribly. They'll be home soon."

"Yeah, I heard from Chris. It does get somewhat easier."

"I don't know, Sally. It's so different being on this side of things and not on the ship. I don't think that I'll ever want it to feel that it's routine when she's gone. For some reason, it was easier before we were...lost."

Smiling, "I understand. You two have been joined at the hip for over a year."

"Yeah. I'm calling to ask for a favour. I'm working on a surprise for Nikki, and I was wondering if you could watch Gale for an hour or so."

"No problem, what are you up to?"

"I've gotten her another clownfish, and I'm setting up the tank."

"Of course, come on over whenever. I'll be here."

"Great, she should be awake soon. I'll call when I leave."

"Sounds good. Just her nappy bag will be fine. I have everything else."

Gale woke around 3:30. Josh had her nappy pack ready, so he could just change her and go. "Alright, Poppet, let's take you to see Aunty Sally while Daddy finishes setting up Mummy's prezzy."

Sally had been watching for him, and she met him at the car after he pulled in. Kissing Gale, Josh hands her over to Sally.

"I won't be long. I want to stop at the Bargain Store. I need a table to sit the tank on. I kind of forgot about that small detail," he said with a chuckle. "Then a run over to Durnham's, you know that rocky shoreline beach? I need to fill a couple of buckets with water."

"Josh, come in a moment. I may have a table for you. We don't use it. It's in the storage shed out back." Sally took Josh to the backyard and their shed. "Here it is…"

"Sally, are you sure? This is perfect. The right size, a drawer to store supplies… It's great. Thank you!"

"No worries, now, go and get your water; we'll be here."

Fifteen minutes later, he arrived at Durnham's and parked the car. Just as he thought, there was no one there. He got out his buckets, went down to the shore and filled them each halfway, making them easier to carry.

Back at the Blakes, "Hey, that was quick. Would you like a coffee or a lemonade?"

"Lemonade sounds just right."

After they were settled… "Sally, I had a strange encounter the other day…" he went on to tell her about his visitor with the casserole.

Sally started to laugh, "Well, that didn't take long."

"What do you mean?"

"Unfortunately, there are these lonely women who don't give a care if you're married or single. You're an attractive, doting father, which puts out the signal that you're a good guy and, therefore, a good catch. You handled it well. Are you planning on telling Nikki?"

"Of course, I don't ever want her to worry that I'll keep things from her, but I'm going to wait until she's home, though. I don't want her worried and distracted on the ship."

"That's understandable."

"Has anything like that ever happened to you?"

"Once or twice. It happens more to men. I think that those women think that you would be...ahhh...easy, you know, 'cause you might be a bit... frustrated," said with a smirk.

"Jeez. Well, okay, on that note, I best be going. It'll be time for Gale's bottle soon, and I am anxious to get this thing set up."

"Josh, we could have given Lance back."

"No, no, Sally. Lance lives with Chloe now. No, worries."

"But didn't you catch Lance yourself when you were diving?"

"I did. I met this fella, a tropical aquarium supplier when I was diving for Robson's. He's getting one for me."

"That's nice."

Josh put the table in the back of the car, and then took Gale from Sally, secured her into her car seat and gave Sally a quick hug.

"Sally, thanks again."

"No worries, Josh, any time."

Back home, Josh set Gale into her porta - cot to play, put on some music, and set to work. Looking around, he finally settled on the best spot to put the fish tank where they would be able to see it while sitting on the couch. There's a convenient wall socket too.

Going back down to the car, he brings up the table and sets it along the wall he has chosen. After wiping off the dust, he went into the kitchen for the tank and placed it on the table. That done, it was time for the water, two more trips to the car to bring up the buckets. Once the water was added to the tank, he set up the filter and added the plants.

Closing the lid, "Here we go, Poppet," turning on the switch bringing the filter to life, and turning on the light. Pleased with himself, he went to Gale, picked her up and laid back on the couch admiring his work.

It was after 7:00 when he finally finished, and he and Poppet were behind schedule. "Whatcha say, Poppet? Bath, Bottle, Bed?"

Now that Gale was down for the night, he ordered take-away pizza, then checked his email. Nikki had left a message that she wouldn't be able to video chat that evening as she had a double watch. One of the crew members was ill.

Josh wrote her an email, telling her about his day, sort of, and sending his love.

The following day after his morning run, he went about his usual morning, then at 10:30, he picked up Gale and carried her to the car. "Okay, little one, time to get fishy."

He pulled into the car park at the pier and headed over to I.A.S. to meet Joel.

"G'day, Mate!" Joel said when Josh walked in. "Gotcha fishies in the back, one sec," and went through the door that was behind the counter. Joel returned carrying a container with his clownfish and 2 blue damsels.

"I added a couple of extras for the Missus. A 20L tank would look lonely with just a clownfish," He said with a grin.

"Joel, these are great! Thank you, Mate!"

"It's all good. It was really great seeing you. Come by anytime."

"Will do."

Back at the car, Josh set the container on the floor in front of the back seat, then got Gale situated. "Okay, now Poppet," kissing her head, "Time to get these little babies home and into the tank."

Gale was settled in her port-a-cot, and he retrieved the container with the fish from the car. First, he poured off about a third of the water in the container and replaced it with water from the tank. "Okay, we have to let them sit for a bit, then we can add a little more tank water," talking to Gale.

So as not to rush the process, he scooped up Gale, took her for a change, gave her a bottle, then settled her down for a nap.

Talking to himself… "Okay, lunch done, time to add more water." Once this was done, he grabbed his kindle and went out on the balcony to read for a bit.

An hour later, Gale was awake, and it was finally time for the fish to meet the tank. Setting Gale down, he picked up the container and slowly poured it into the tank. Everybody looked happy and healthy, and he was quite pleased with himself. Josh brought Gale over to the tank to see the fish, smiling as she tries to reach for them.

Josh's laptop pinged, alerting him to an email.

*Hey Babe, we should be in port tomorrow at 1300. I can't wait to see you and Poppet. Skype later? 1900? Kisses xx ? *

"Poppet, Mummy will be home tomorrow!"

Monday, August 3rd.:

Josh went through his morning routine and tried to keep busy waiting for the afternoon to arrive. At 12:30, he took Gale up to their bedroom balcony, settled her in her seat and picked up his binoculars. They were as powerful as the ones they had used on the ship, enabling him to watch the ship from the time it entered the harbour. Ten minutes later, he could see the mast as they made their way into the harbour. He continued to watch until the ship came into full view. He could even see the cable party getting ready for docking.

"It's time, Poppet. Let's get changed into something pretty for Mummy." While changing her, he started blowing raspberries on her tummy, making her squirm and laugh. "Alright, let's go get Mummy!"

After passing through the security checkpoint, he went to the officer's car park, got Gale into her stroller and headed for Hammersley's berth arriving just as she was docking. Ten minutes later, the gangway was in place, and the crew started filing off laughing and joking as they were beginning their shore leave.

Then there was Nikki, wearing his favourite sundress and looking fabulous. Spotting Josh and Gale, she sported a broad smile and practically bounded down the gangway and straight into Josh's arms.

Giving her a quick kiss, "Hi, Luv, it feels so good holding you. I missed you so much." This time kissing her thoroughly.

"I missed you too," then they broke their embrace, and she bent to pick up Gale, holding her close and giving her kisses. "Let's get out of here," Nikki said.

"The car's in the officer's lot." Heading for the car, Nikki carried Gale while Josh pushed the stroller with Nikki's seabag.

"Nikki, when we get home, don't go straight up; wait in the foyer. I have a surprise."

"Josh?"

"Just one minute," kissing Nikki on the cheek, then brought Gale upstairs to her play cot. Returning to the foyer, he used a bandana as a blindfold then guided Nikki up the stairs and over to the front of the aquarium. "Okay!"

Nikki slipped the blindfold off, blinked, then "Josh! My God, it's beautiful. A new Lancelot. I love it. What are those blue fish?"

"Damsels," he told her. "Gale and I had great fun setting this up."

"You've put it in the perfect spot, right where you can see it while sitting on the couch."

"Sit. Would you like something to eat or drink?"

"How about a brew and Tim Tams?"

"I'll put the water on and bring your bag upstairs."

Nikki got comfy on the couch and watched her fish, smiling to herself as she thought about Josh.

They sat watching the fish, drinking their brews and eating Tim Tams. "I thought that maybe we could take a walk later and then go out to eat? Wherever you want to go."

"Sounds perfect. How about that pub you told me about that's near the park?"

"Sure, we can walk."

Finished with her snack, Nikki brought Gale to her room, gave her a change and a bottle while rocking her. Then she laid a sleepy Gale in her cot for a nap.

Leaving Gales room, Nikki went looking for Josh and found him in the kitchen. Going up to him, she hugged him close and kissed him deeply. Then taking his hand, she led him to their bedroom. Kissing as they undress each other, Josh says, "Ahhh, my favourite part of homecoming."

"Mine too."

Gale woke around four, and they got ready to go out for their walk and dinner. Coming out of the townhouse, Nikki started to turn towards the park when Josh stopped her.

"I want to go this way first if that's okay."

"Sure, any particular reason?"

"It will become clear in just a few minutes."

When they were about halfway down the block, Josh stopped, pulled Nikki to him, placed his hand on her cheeks and gazed into her eyes. Then pulled her in for a deep and thorough kiss.

"Josh! Wow! Not that I'm complaining, but what was that about?" As she looked at him while carding her fingers through his curls.

"That, my love, was a most enjoyable display of PDA for the neighbourhood 'cougars'. I hope she or they were watching."

Looking puzzled as they resumed their walk, "Care to explain?"

He went on to tell her all about his encounter with the "cougar" Caroline.

"Josh, honey, why didn't you tell me?"

"Not meaning to keep it secret, Luv. I just didn't want you to worry."

"Josh, I…"

"Babe, sometimes when you're apart from the someone you love, your imagination can go into overdrive. I want you to know that you have absolutely nothing to worry about with me. There will never be anyone but you. Please never doubt that." This time Nikki stopped walking and pulled Josh in for a kiss.

"Have there been any other hunting 'cats'?"

"Well, a flirty lady at the pool, but I sent her packing pretty quick, and some woman in the grocery stopped to admire Gale and invite me for coffee. I talked to Sally and asked her if she had those problems."

"What did she say?"

"It's mostly the men that have those issues. Please, Nik, don't worry. I'm yours and only yours," wrapping his arm around her shoulders and pulling her close, placing a kiss on her head. "I love you, and I will show you how much every chance I get."

"I love you, and I'll be showing you later!" she said with a sultry smile that left Josh beaming.

"Can't wait."

At the end of the block, they turned around and headed for the pub.

Two days ago:

As Nikki walked by the Seniors lounge, she heard the guys playing cards, so she popped in.

"What can we do for you, Ma'am, or are you just looking for some company?" Buffer asked.

"Well, actually, I have a favour to ask. I wondered if you guys would mind including Josh in one or two of your shore leave plans. I feel bad; the only company he's had is Gale for the last two weeks. I'm sure he could use some male bonding time."

"You know Nav, I had been thinking about that. Super Dad probably could use a break," Charge added.

Then Swain said, "Navy wives have a fairly good support system among themselves; I imagine that that is not the case for Josh. I don't know how many full-time Navy dads there are. I have to imagine not that many."

"He'll never admit it," said Nikki.

"Okay then, I have been organizing some footy in the park; I'll let him know," Buffer told her.

"I'm always looking for someone to play a 'round' with," Charge said. "I'll definitely give him a call."

"Thanks, guys."

"No worries, Ma'am. We enjoy his company," Buffer said.

Nikki had been home for two days and had taken over most of Gales care, soaking up all the time with her that she could. She was playing with her in the living room when Josh came in.

"Hey Babe, I just got a call from Charge asking if I could play a round of golf tomorrow."

"I hope you said yes."

"Do you mind? I hate leaving you alone when you just got home. You're only home for 2 weeks."

"Josh, don't be silly, of course, I don't mind. It's not like you're going away for days. You need to get out. You've been Super Dad for 2 weeks without a break. Take one. Have fun. Drink beer and enjoy some guy time."

"Well...and then there was a text from Buffer asking me if I would like to join the footy game. Nik, have you had anything to do with this?"

"I may have dropped a hint that you could use a break. Everyone was excited to see you and to get to spend some time with you. They've missed you since you left the Navy. Really, the new guy…Two Dads…well, let's just say he's not you."

Taking her hands and lifting her to standing, he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her. "Thank you, Luv. I guess I'm going to have to get some clubs today if I'm going to play tomorrow. Lost mine… well, along with everything else. I needed new clubs; this is a good excuse."

"You should see if Charge is free. He seems to be somewhat of an expert on all things golf."

"You know, that's a good idea. I'll give him a call, accept his invite and ask if he can help with the clubs."

Charge collected Josh the following morning for their round of golf. Josh had asked Charge to pick him up so that he could leave Nikki the car.

While Josh was out, Nikki enjoyed some special time with Gale that included a walk to the park and a quick trip to the supermarket to get something special to cook for Josh. She picked up a bottle of wine and 0.5gm garlic prawns, one of Josh's favourites. Josh had purchased an LPG BBQ grill for the backyard, so she also bought a special thick steak for Josh and some chicken for herself. She planned on grilled sesame asparagus with roasted potatoes and, because she doesn't bake, a frozen molten caramel pudding for dessert.

"Hey, Babe", finding Nikki on the balcony when he got home, leaning down and kissing her hello.

"How was your round?"

"I sucked, but it was great fun. Charge is a fun bloke. I'm going to shower."

"Okay, Luv, I'll start supper."

Nikki had everything ready, so she popped the potatoes in the oven, then set the outside table. Laughing to herself as she thought...( I don't know why we bothered with a kitchen table, we never eat there.)

Hearing the shower turn off, she put the prawns in butter in the frypan, cooked them up, and had them on the table with a beer for when Josh came down.

"Hey, what's this now?" he said as he went out to the balcony.

"I have some of your favourites for dinner. A thick steak, roasted potatoes and grilled sesame asparagus. And, of course, some garlic prawns to start."

"Nikki...:" kissing her.

"I want you to know how much I appreciate you and how lucky I am to have you."

"Thank you, Luv. I feel pretty lucky myself."

"Now, sit, eat your prawns before they get cold."

It was Monday afternoon and they decided to go to the pool. After packing something to read, snacks and drinks in a small esky, they loaded the stroller and walked the two blocks. Picking out a table and lounge chairs at the far end of the pool away from the running kids, they made themselves comfortable.

"Josh, Luv, go do your laps, uninterrupted."

Kissing her head, he dives in and starts swimming. Nikki settles in with the book she is reading while Gale is happily sitting in her stroller.

Two women in their mid-thirties, both different shades of bottle-blond, watched as Nikki and Josh arrive.

"That must be his wife, pretty enough, I guess," Cat 1, platinum, says.

"I don't get how she can leave that gorgeous man and baby home like that." Cat 2 adds. "Just look at him! Sex on a stick!" she purrs as Josh gets out of the pool.

Nikki hands a dripping Josh a towel, "Here ya go, handsome," giving him a quick kiss. Josh smiled and sat next to her in the other lounge chair.

"You do have to admit that they make a cute couple," comments Cat 1.

"I've tried talking to him; he's polite enough but puts up a definite wall," says Cat 2.

Nikki had fed Gale a bottle, and she fell asleep, allowing them both to go into the water. They stayed nearby, keeping Gale in their sight.

"Go ahead and get a swim in; I'll stay here and keep a watch," Josh tells her.

"Alright," and she swims off to do a couple of laps of her own.

Finished, she swam back to Josh. They floated holding hands and treaded water just talking. Josh went over to the side of the pool facing Gale and held on by hanging by his elbows. Nikki paddled close to him, wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist.

"Hey, there," he says.

She leans in and kisses him softly but thoroughly.

"Okay, wow. Do you have a reason for such PDA? Not that it's a problem." He says, leaning in for another kiss.

"Well, actually, besides the fact that I love kissing you, it was a show for the Cat Ladies who can't seem to keep their eyes off of you. I'm just staking out my territory."

Josh laughed, "let's stake it out some more," leaning in for another kiss.

Gale started to make noise, "I'll get her," Nikki said. "I have to enact plan B."

" 'Plan B'? Can't wait to see this one! Ahhh, I'm going to swim a bit more, can't get out right now if you get my meaning."

Nikki laughed, "I get it; I'll take care of that later," she said with a quick kiss.

Picking up Gail, Nikki gave her a quick change then applied some sunscreen. Placing a hat on Gales's head, Nikki went to sit in the water on the pool stairs, putting her just about in front of the cat ladies chairs. While she dangled Gales feet and legs in the water, Nikki laughed, watching her kick. Josh joined her shortly and sat on the edge of the pool next to her. It wasn't a minute before Cat 1 went over and sat next to Nikki.

Looking over Nikki at Josh, "Hi, I'm Penelope Perkins, call me Penny," reaching behind Nikki's back to shake Josh's hand. Nikki quirks an eyebrow and looks at her while Josh seems uncomfortable. ( won't these cows give it a rest!)

Penny looks at Nikki, "and you would be his sister?"

Holding her temper and giving her a sickeningly sweet smile while placing Gale on her knee, " Nikki Holiday, Mrs Nikki Holiday."

"Oh, I didn't realize that Josh was married. He's always alone."

"Quite, Well, I'm an LT in the Navy; it takes me away every couple of weeks."

Josh became impatient with the conversation; he looked at Nikki, "I need to get dinner started. Are you ready, Luv?"

"You bet, well, ahh… Penny, it was nice to meet you." Nikki purrs.

Josh stands and takes Gale so that Nikki can stand easier, then they walk back to their things with Josh's arm around her.

Cat 1 returns to Cat 2… " Did I hear him say that he had to start dinner? My God, wherever did she find him!"

Packing up, they left for home. "Well, I imagine we gave the 'Cat Ladies' a show," Nikki said.

"You obviously noticed them."

"They were sort of obvious the way they looked at me and stared at you."

"Don't worry about them, Babe. They can't even come close to holding a candle to you."

"I love you, Josh," going up on her toes and kissing him. " Maybe after today they'll take the hint."

Buffer called Josh on Thursday and told him that the footy game was on for Saturday, at 1 pm in Harriman's Park.

"We're going to be playing some blokes from Kingston," Buffer told him."Did you still want to play?"

"You bet. It sounds like a good time," Josh replied. "Buff, can someone pick me up so that I can leave Nik the car?"

"No worries, Mate. I'll come to get ya, Mate. Be ready for 12:30. BYOB and a snack,

and we will be cooking up some snags."

"Will do. See ya Saturday."

Getting off the phone, he went to find Nikki, "Hey, there you are," finding her rocking Gale. After kissing her on the top of her head, he sits down on the sleeper couch that is in Gales room. "Buff just called; footy is on for Saturday arvo. He has us playing Kingston."

"That's great! It should be a good time. Kick some Kingston ass." she said, laughing.

"He'll be picking me up at 12:30. They're planning on grilling some snags, so I probably won't be needing dinner."

Saturday Buffer showed up right on time, and Josh invited him in to see the place.

"Nav, this is nice. Hey, I love the fish tank."

"Josh surprised me with it when I got home."

"Josh, Mate, you're doing alright."

"We're happy."

As soon as Josh and Buffer left, Nikki got Gale ready to go out and buy Josh's anniversary gift. It was still a couple of weeks away, but she would be leaving again for another two-week patrol.

Having done some research, she found a store near downtown that would have what she was looking for—Simpson's Pianos.

Parking in a nearby car park, she got Gale settled in her carrier and walked the block to Simpson's. As soon as she entered the store, she was greeted by a salesman.

"G'Day, can I help you, Ma'am?"

"I'm sure that you can. I'm looking for an upright piano."

"Well, you are definitely in the right place. My name is Sam," extending his hand.

"Nikki Holiday."

"And who is this delightful little one?"

"This is Gale."

"Lovely name. Now, if you follow me, I'll show you what we have. What type were you thinking about?"

"An upright."

After looking at several and listening to Sam, she decided on a beautiful Steinway in mahogany.

"Let's go up to the office and right up the sale. Will you be financing?"

"No, this is a cash sale."

"Very good."

The paperwork completed, Nikki wrote him a check and set up delivery. "When would you like to take delivery?"

"August 25th. I know that is a few weeks away, but it's an anniversary gift for my husband. I will be shipping out next week for two weeks. I thought that I best get this done."

"Shipping out? You're in the Navy then?"

"I am."

"Alright then, no worries. I'll call the day before to confirm delivery."

"Can you arrange for someone to come out and tune it.?"

"Tuning is complementary. The technician will also call to set up a time."

"Perfect!" extending her hand, "Thank you, Sam."

"Happy anniversary! How many?"

"Thank you—one year. Okay, little one, that's done; let's see if we can pop over to Aunty Sally's for a visit. Sally was thrilled. Ten minutes later, Nikki pulled into the Blake's driveway, and Sally and the kids came out to meet her.

"Nikki! Such a nice surprise!" Giving her a hug and reaching for Gale, who was still in her seat. "Come on in, can I get you something to drink?"

"That would be great, thanks. A diet coke if you have it?"

"Sure, go on outback and I'll bring our drinks."

Taking Gale back from Sally, Nikki went out to the Blake's patio and sat in the shade with Gale beside her. Chloe and little Chris were fascinated with her.

"Okay, Kids," Sally said as she came outside. Then giving them each an ice lolly, " Now go play." Sitting in the lounge next to Nikki, she handed her a diet coke and placed a bowl of assorted flavoured shapes on the little table that was between them. Nikki had taken Gale out of her seat and propped her, sitting between her thighs.

The two women chatted all afternoon. Sally was almost hysterical when Nikki told her about their trip to the pool.

"Well, I should be going," Nikki said after checking her watch. "I imagine that the boys will be home soon."

"Chris is generally back by five when they have these games. He usually calls when he's on his way."

"Sally, thanks for the visit."

"No worries, come by anytime. I really enjoyed the company."

On her way home, Nikki stopped at the grocery to pick up something for supper. Gale had fallen asleep in the car, so Nikki scooped her up and would come back down for the groceries.

Walking into the living room, she found a passed out Josh lying on his stomach on the couch. Chuckling, she brought Gale upstairs to her cot and then returned to Josh. Sitting down on the coffee table, she leaned over and kissed him on the forehead.

Peeling his eyes open with a moan, "Ahggg, Nik, you're home," his eyes watering.

"You look like death warmed up, and you smell like a brewery. Are you alright?"

"Uhgg, no, I think I might just die. There's a little monster with a sledgehammer in my head."

"What happened?"

"Buffer kept handing me beers, and like a dolt, I kept drinking them. Didn't want the blokes to think that I had gone soft. Guess I have. Buff had to drag my ass up here. Kind of embarrassing."

"Oh, Josh. Have you taken anything?"

"No. I collapsed here and didn't dare move."

"I'll be right back with some paracetamol."

"Thanks, Luv," he moaned.

Nikki returned with the pills, a tall glass of ice water, and a cold washcloth for his head, "here ya go, these should help and try to drink some water."

"Okay…" falling back on the couch, she placed the cool cloth across his forehead.

At six, Nikki fed Gale, gave her her bath and then rocked while singing to her until she was almost asleep, then laid her in her cot. Leaving Gales room, she went downstairs to check on Josh, kissing him awake. "How are you feeling? Would you like something to eat?"

"Oh, God! No," he groaned. "Don't mention food."

Smiling, Nikki gave him a quick kiss, "come on, Sailor, let's get you into bed."

"Okay…"

After helping him up from the couch, she followed behind him as he made his way up the stairs, worried that he might get dizzy and fall. Once in the bedroom, he stumbled into the bathroom, used the toilet and splashed cold water on his face. Nikki had turned down the bed and was waiting for him, stopping him from falling into bed fully clothed. She helped him to undress down to his boxers. Josh collapsed onto the bed, and Nikki pulled the blankets up. Kissing his head, "I'll be right back with some more paracetamol."

"You're an angel."

Nikki came back with some more ice water, gave Josh the pills and got him settled. "I'll be up in a little while. Sleep it off, Luv," kissing him again.

Returning downstairs, she fixed a light supper of soup and toasted sandwich and turned on the TV. Around ten, she went upstairs, got into her nightclothes, slipped into bed and snuggled next to Josh.

Morning arrived, bright and sunny. Nikki got up while Josh was still sleeping soundly and looked after Gale. She decided to wait on her breakfast in case Josh was ready to eat something, so instead made a brew, got a muffin, and went out to the balcony. Gale was on her tummy mat while Nikki sat back and sipped her coffee.

Her phone rang, "Hello?"

"Hey Nav, it's Buffer."

"Well, hi. How are you doing today?" she said with a bit of cheek.

"I called to apologize. I think I may have killed ET."

Nikki laughed, "Yeah, pretty close. He's not up yet. Shall I have him call you?"

"Yeah, do that, thanks."

"See ya soon, Buff."

As she disconnected with Buffer, Josh wandered out with a coffee and eased himself into the other lounge chair with an "uhgg."

"Feeling any better? Would you like some breakfast? Eggs, maybe?"

"Not feeling great, but not near as bad. Scrambled would be great, thanks. Could you bring me Poppet? It hurts when I bend over."

Smiling, "Of course." She scooped up Gale and brought her to Josh, gave him a good morning kiss and went to make breakfast.

.