23 October:
Nikki had been home for five days when Mike finally got back to her about her family leave.
"Nikki, it's Mike."
"Hi, Mike, thank you for all of your help."
"Really, Nikki, that's what friends are all about. Now, I've found a temp for you. She'll be coming to us from Sydney and will be here in time for Hammersley's next patrol. How much time do you think that you will be needing?"
"At least ten weeks. Josh's cast should be coming off in six weeks and then a month of minimal weight-bearing and PT to hopefully get him to where he won't need crutches or a cane anymore."
"Alright, keep me in the loop."
"I will."
Diane had been gone a week, and Josh and Nikki were settling into a comfortable routine. Josh got back to his studies. He had to ask for a couple of extensions which were granted without any fuss. He played his piano just about every day; it helped him to relax. And, he and Nikki went out to walk twice a day. Now he was almost making it around the block. After another week, he added some work out time in the gym. Nikki was very proud of him.
30 November
The last week of November, his grades came in, and he passed everything with high marks. They went to their favourite restaurant in Palm Cove to celebrate.
Even though he was back to driving, they all went to his appointment with Dr Lucas when hopefully his cast would be removed.
"Josh! Good to see you, and the whole family is here! How's everything going? You look good."
"I feel good; ankle still aches a bit."
"Unfortunately, it's going to for a while. After the cast is off, I want you to ice it regularly, especially after activity. Now, let's get this thing off your leg. I have to warn you; it's going to be nasty under there. You'll be wanting to give your leg a good soak.," causing Josh to chuckle.
Picking up the cast saw, Dr Lucas split the cast on both sides and peeled it open. His nurse, Linda, had some warm water and a washcloth ready to wipe down his leg.
"Okay, Josh, we're going to get an x-ray. Everything is looking good. If the x-ray is good, and I can't imagine why it wouldn't be, you'll be going home in a support boot. You can start partial weight-bearing, first with crutches, then a cane, but I want you to wait until you start PT before doing any weight-bearing. You'll be seeing the physical therapist twice a week for six weeks."
"Alright. It feels so strange without the cast."
Dr Lucas chuckled, "Yeah, like a ten-pound weight was removed.
I can't believe how big Gale has gotten in two months. Such a happy baby."
"She is," Nikki says proudly.
Fifteen minutes later, Dr Lucas returns to the exam room with the x-ray. "Okay, well then, everything is looking good. So, Josh, I'll see you in a month. Nancy at the front desk will get you started with your first PT appointment," he shook Josh's hand, gave Nikki's shoulder a squeeze and left them to go and see his next patient.
"Thanks, Doc."
Linda had his boot ready to go and showed him how to put it on and then handed him his crutches. "Good luck with PT. See you next month," she said, opening the door for them.
They stopped at the reception window on their way out. "Okay, Josh, how's Wednesday the 2nd at 10 am for your first PT appointment?"
"That's fine, and I need an appointment for one month."
"Alright, that puts us to...January. How's the 4th at 10 ?"
"Works for me. I'll see you then."
"Take care, and enjoy your holidays!"
"We will," Nikki replies.
As Nikki drove them home, Gale fell asleep in the car. Parking the car in the garage, Nikki carefully lifts Gale from her car seat and carries her still sleeping upstairs to her cot while Josh makes his way upstairs behind her. While Nikki was with Gale, he went to fill the jacuzzi tub. He had just climbed in and turned on the jets when Nikki walked into the bathroom, stripped and joined him.
7 December:
Josh was working hard in PT as well as on his own. He was determined to regain full function of his ankle, and he wanted to be able to run again. After his first week of PT, he started swimming every day. His therapist had told him that it was an excellent way to work the tendons and muscles without undue stress.
The second week of December, Josh called John and Scotty and asked if they could take him on a dive, he would pay, of course.
"Josh, Mate! We would love to take you out, and no, you will not pay us. How's Thursday for you? Say, 9:00?" John says.
"Sounds great! Fantastic! Thanks, Mate."
" No worries, we'll see you then."
Nikki came out onto the balcony as he was finishing his call. "Hey Babe, I'm going on a dive Thursday with John and Scotty. Do you mind?"
"Josh, of course not. Why would I mind? I think that sounds like a great idea. You deserve it," she leaned over and kissed him.
Two days later, he kissed his girls and left for Palm Cove. He was now walking with the support of a cane, and he could feel his ankle getting stronger.
"Oi! Mate! What happened to you?" Scotty exclaimed.
"I had a dust-up with a little demon on a skateboard. Busted up my ankle pretty bad, just had the cast removed last week."
"How's it been going for you?" John asked, a little concerned about the dive.
"I've been swimming laps every day. Swimming with fins will be good. Besides, I miss being down there. I'll be okay."
"I'm so glad that you called," Scotty tells him. "It'll be nice getting out there for a relaxing dive, no newbies!"
Josh laughed, "Yeah, I get that."
John and Scotty had the Reef Explorer ready to go, so they got right to it. They cast off and pointed the boat toward the reef.
Josh was standing at the rail, relishing the sea air. It was a glorious day, not too hot, at least not yet and a perfect sea breeze. They motored for an hour when John brought them to a stop and secured the boat for their dive. They set out the dive flags and suited up.
"Josh, take it slow, Mate. Don't push it." John said to him.
"Yeah," Scotty said, "don't want to have to save your ass!" laughing.
Josh laughed at this, "I won't, and I don't want you anywhere near my ass." Scotty and John busted out laughing.
"Haven't lost your sense of humour, I see," Scotty says to him, still chuckling.
John stayed topside to act as tender while Scotty and Josh went down. Josh was in his element, diving around the beautiful coral formations and watching the colourful fish. He kept an eye out for an interesting shell for Nikki. However, after fifteen minutes down, Josh needed to surface. Signalling Scotty, he made his ascent. Scotty stayed down for a while longer.
"Josh," John said as he helped him up and onto the deck. "Are you alright, Mate?"
"Yeah, I'm okay. The ankle was getting a bit sore swimming with the extra resistance from the fins. I hated coming up; I've missed being down there. Josh went into his bag, got out two Motrin, snapped a cold pack, and applied it to his ankle.
"If you want, we can make this a weekly thing. Scotty and I need an excuse to get out here for fun."
"That would be fantastic. But John, I don't want to take advantage; let me pay. At least help pay for the gas."
"No, friends don't let friends pay, Mate. Besides, I can write it off as a business expense, doing a re-con for future dive sites," he said with a wink.
"John, I don't know what to say...Thanks."
"No worries, Josh. No worries."
A half-hour later, Scotty surfaced, then got out of his gear but left his wetsuit half on.
"Josh, how about lunch, and we go back down.?"
" Ace!"
The boat gently rocked as they sat on the deck eating their lunch of sandwiches and cold sodas, chatting, teasing, and catching up. "Sure that you don't want to come back, Mate?" John asked him.
"I'm sure. It's not that I didn't enjoy working with you guys; I loved it. But my plate is pretty full right now with taking care of Gale and school."
"I get it," Scotty says.
Lunch was finished. "Ready to go back down?" John asked.
"You bet,"
This time John went down with him. Josh found a beautiful swirling shell for Nikki, about his palm's size with pink and light orange markings, and he slipped it into his dive pouch. This time Josh made it twenty minutes before having to surface.
They stripped out of their wetsuits and got dressed. Josh applied another ice pack to his ankle.
"Hey, now that the diving is done, how about a couple of stubbies?" Scotty suggests.
"Sounds good, but only one for me," Josh says.
"That's funny; I remember you being able to put down a few," John remarked.
"Yeah, well, the Navy helped with that, shore leaves ya know. Before Nikki, I was kind of known as a partier."
"I get that, Mate," Scotty says.
"Being we were stuck on that island for a year; my tolerance has dropped. Then add fatherhood... changes you. So don't laugh, but two beers and I wouldn't be able to drive." Josh laughed at himself.
They sat, enjoying their beer and the sea breeze. After an hour, John announced that it was time that they head back. "Josh, want to take the wheel?"
Josh was thrilled, "You bet, thanks, John."
Back in port, they closed up the Reef Explorer. As they walked up the pier, Scotty said, "So, same time next week?"
"That would be great. I'll see you then." Josh replied.
Josh had called Nikki after he got in the car to let her know that he was on his way home.
"Hey, Babe, I should be home in about thirty."
"Great, I'll start on supper. Would you stop for some milk? We're almost out."
"Sure, Luv, anything else?"
"Umm, ice cream for our movie tonight?"
"Will do, see you soon, love you."
"Love you. Bye."
Josh pulled into the garage, got out the grocery bag and went into the house. The odour of onions and peppers assaulted his senses.
"Hey, Nikki, what smells so amazing?" he called out as he made his way up the stairs.
"Snags with sauteed peppers and onions."
"Awesome, I'm starving," placing the bag on the bench and wrapping her in his arms for a kiss.
"How was your day?" Nikki asked him.
"It was fantastic. I'm going to take a quick shower, wash off the sea, and then I'll tell you about it over dinner."
Arms around his neck, she pulls him in for a kiss. "I'm looking forward to it."
As he walks over to the stairs, he calls over his shoulder, " Where's Gale? Sleeping?"
"Yeah, for about thirty minutes now."
Josh's ankle was pretty sore as he hobbled into their bedroom, leaning on his cane.
( I can't wait to get rid of this thing), he sits on the bed for a moment, before limping his way into the shower, taking two Motrin before stepping in.
After getting dressed and as he left their bedroom, he could hear Gale waking up. "Hey, Poppet! Did you sleep well?" Leaning against the side of the cot, he scooped her up with his right arm while he steadied himself with the cane on his left. He brought her over to the changing table and took care of her nappy.
"Hey Luv," Nikki said from the doorway. "How are you making out?"
"I'm good, but I'll need you to take her downstairs. I don't dare."
She went over to her two favourite people and gave them both a kiss. Nikki picked up Gale, and they headed downstairs to their supper.
Sitting down at the table, Josh helped himself to a snag putting it on a roll and then piled on the peppers and onions, a scoop of potato salad, and he was good to go.
"So, tell me about your dive," Nikki asked.
"Nikki, it was fantastic. It just felt so good to be out there again. Oh! I forgot I've got something for you," pulling the shell from his pocket and passing it to her."
"It's beautiful! I am going to add it to the tank. Thanks, Babe!"
"We talked about going out once a week."
"That's great. I like seeing you get out. You've given up so much for me," reaching for his hand.
"I've given up nothing. I'm exactly where I want to be. I couldn't ask for anything more."
They continued to enjoy their supper and each other. After supper, while Nikki cleared the table, Josh loaded the dishwasher. The kitchen sorted out; he played the piano for a while with Nikki and Gale sitting beside him.
Josh continued his weekly dive excursions with John and Scotty. Each time he could stay down a bit longer by Christmas week, he could stay down for an hour. He was thrilled.
With all of the exercise, his ankle was getting stronger, and he was using the cane less and less. His physical therapist was very pleased. He told Josh that he's never seen anyone come back from that surgery as well and as quickly as he has.
Nikki was supposed to return to sea duty the first of the year. She was concerned that Josh still wouldn't be ready, but as he improved, she felt more confident. Mike had just called to see how things were going and whether she thought she would be able to return.
"Nikki, how's Josh?"
"He's doing very well, Mike. He's working hard at getting his ankle rehabbed, and it's really coming along. He's determined to regain full function and to get back to jogging."
"Tell him to keep his eyes open for wayward skateboarders."
Nikki laughed. "I think that you can plan on me coming back after the first of the year. Josh has what should be his last appointment with the surgeon on the 4th of January.
I'm sure that he will be cleared for all activity. If so, I'll be all set to come back."
"That's great news. Now, on a personal note, Kate and I are having a Christmas BBQ party on the 20th. We would love it if you came. It's a family thing. The Blakes will be there with Chole and little Chris."
"Sounds fun, count us in!"
"Alright, we'll see you then, 1600 on the 20th."
"See you then, buy Mike."
Nikki and Josh were excited about their first Christmas at home with Gale. They got a Christmas tree and all of the trimmings. Nikki also got some tiny white lights to line the balcony and the front windows and a wreath for the door.
11, December
Nikki decided that she would replace Josh's lost dive gear for Christmas. Thinking about it, she decided to call Scotty and John to ask for their help, and they were thrilled that she called.
Josh was getting ready for his PT session when Nikki walked into the bedroom.
"Josh, would you mind taking a taxi home from PT? I have some shopping that I would like to do."
"Of course not, no worries. Enjoy."
After dropping Josh off at PT, Nikki headed to Palm Cove to meet with John and Scotty.
Arriving at Palm Cove Marina, she parked the car, got out Gale's stroller, and went down to the "Reef Explorer Dives" office.
Walking into the office, she was greeted by John and Scotty.
"LT Holiday! It's so good to see you and your beautiful little Sheila. What can we do for you?"
"Hi John, it's nice to see you too. So, I'm here to talk about getting Josh some dive gear for Christmas. As you probably know, all of his gear was liquidated with the rest of his assets when they thought that we had died."
"Nikki, what a great idea for a Christmas prezzy. What are you thinking? New? Used? Both?" Scotty said.
"New, Scotty, and I want the whole setup including tanks, get him completely kitted out."
"He's gonna love it, but it's gonna cost some if you're going all new. Around $3500 after my discount."
"That's fine, John. You know him and what he needs. I'll leave you guys to it."
.
"We'll take care of it, Nikki. We should have everything by the week before Christmas." Scotty tells her. "He's going to love it for sure."
"That's awesome, mates, thank you!"
"No worries," they both said.
When Josh finished at PT, he called a taxi but didn't head home. Instead, he went downtown to his now favourite jewellery store, Lamonte's Fine Jewelry, to look for the ID bracelets that he wanted to get Nikki for Christmas.
He had been thinking of what to get her when he had the idea of matching gold ID bracelets. Nikki's would have his name, and he would have hers with both to be inscribed ' Forever Yours ' on the backside.
Walking into the shop, the owner Mrs Helen Lamonte greeted him. She was a pleasant-looking woman in her seventies. "Hello Josh, It's good to see you again, and it appears that you have had an accident?"
" Yeah, I broke my ankle when I collided with a little demon on a skateboard. It's coming along, though, and I should be rid of the cane around the first of the year."
"That's good. Are you here looking for something special for your Missus? How did she like the bands?"
"She was thrilled, loved them. They were perfect."
"That's so nice to hear. Now, what did you have in mind?"
" Would like to look at gold ID bracelets, his and hers. Good quality."
"That's all you'll find here, my son. Come this way," she brought Josh to a case that had several styles of bracelets. "I would recommend 14K over 18K gold for an active lifestyle. 18K can tend to be soft. These here are what we have in 14K" she took out all of the 14K bracelets and laid them out on the soft mat that was on the top of the case.
Josh looked at each one, then decided on one with a Cuban link chain and a light filigree framing the nameplate. Nikki's bracelet was delicate and would look beautiful on her petite wrist. His was more masculine, a bit heavier.
"I'll take these, Mrs Lamonte; they're perfect."
"Good, Good. How would you like these engraved?"
"I know that this is going to sound...well odd… but I would like ' Josh' in a nice script on Nikki's with ' Forever Yours' on the backside. Mine will be just the opposite, same inscription on the back."
"That is one of the sweetest things that I have heard in a long time."
"It's a symbol that we will always be there for each other even when we can't be."
"She's going to be thrilled. I know I would."
"I hope so."
Josh paid for the bracelets, and Mrs Lamonte said that she would call him when they came back from the engraver.
"They should be back early next week, Josh. Plenty of time before Christmas."
"That's great, Mrs Lamont. I can't wait to see them done."
He said goodbye and then went to a few specialty shops to pick up the next part of Nikki's gift. He planned to collect as many of her favourite things that he could. Then put them in a large box, and then he was going to tuck the bracelets inside. He went to the bath shop and got her several of her favourite soaps and bath bubbles, and he picked out several scented lotions. Then to the candle shop where he bought her favourite scented candles. Next, he went into a specialty shop for a white negligee set. Finally, he went to a high-end department store to get her a bottle of her (his) favourite perfume...(Time I was getting home), he thought as he called a taxi. He was surprised and pleased to find that Nikki hadn't beat him home. He carried his packages into the house and then went to the storage room to tuck them away before going upstairs. Grabbing a beer, he went to relax in his lounge with his Kindle. He hadn't even finished his beer when he fell asleep.
After Nikki left John and Scotty, she walked the shops in Palm Cove and found a few things for their parents. She found an outdoor cafe where she ordered a sandwich and a coffee, and she gave Gale her bottle.
It was after 1 pm when she returned to the car, got Gale settled, the stroller stowed with her packages, and headed back to Cairns.
Nikki arrived home forty minutes later. Balancing Gale on her hip and going into the house, she called out for Josh. Not getting an answer, she went upstairs to look for him. (Maybe he's not home). At the top of the stairs, she noticed his keys were on the table. She went looking for him and found him asleep in his lounge chair, looking adorable. Smiling, she went to care for Gale, get her changed and feed her a snack.
When she finished, she placed her in her playpen and went outside to join Josh. Leaning over, she kissed him softly.
"Hey," he said sleepily. "Did you just get home?"
"I've been home for about a half-hour or so."
"What time is it?"
"3:45."
"How was shopping? Did you find any parent gifts?"
"They're tough; I ended up with some handmade specialty ornaments and a bottle of wine for each. I am open to any suggestions."
"That sounds good to me; the Holidays usually keep things simple anyway. I was thinking about delivery pizza."
"Ahh, that sounds great after being out most of the day."
"Good, let me know when to call it in."
"How about 5:30? I would love to just sit here for a while."
"Good. Can I get you anything?
"A glass of wine would be nice."
"Done."
After bringing Nikki her wine, he kissed the top of her head and went inside. He used the loo, then went to see Gale, and finally sat at the piano playing softly.
Nikki smiled, hearing him play, reclined in her chair and listening to the soft music; she fell asleep.
Josh woke Nikki at 5:30 to tell her that he was ordering the Pizza.
Smiling, "That time already? Wow, I slept a long time. I am fairly hungry."
"You must have needed it. Gale's had her supper."
"You are a great Dad and a most fantastic husband."
Leaning over to kiss her, "Thank you, Luv. You're pretty great yourself."
Nikki set the table while Josh made a salad. At 6:10, their doorbell rang.
"That must be the pizza; I'll get it," Nikki said, letting Josh avoid the stairs. She placed the box on the table while Josh got their drinks. Then she got Gale and put her in her highchair.
"Nikki, I've been thinking…"
"Thought I smelled something," she said with a cheeky grin.
"Very funny. Anyway, what do you think about getting a second car? It might be nice when you're home so that we're not leaving one of us to use a taxi if we want to go out."
" You know, it just might be time."
"Have you ever thought about what you might want?"
"Don't laugh, but I think I would love another Outback. The boot has plenty of cargo room and is perfect for the stroller. Easy to load the groceries and whatnot. I like the Legacy too, but I think that I like the Outback style better."
"What I think is that it's your car, get what you like. How about we go looking tomorrow. We can start where we bought our first one."
The next morning after their routine walk and then breakfast, Josh called the dealership and asked for the same saleswoman who sold them their first car. She was extremely helpful and not at all pushy, and he wanted to give her the commission.
"Mr Holiday, how nice to hear from you! And how is your family?"
" We're doing well, thanks. And it's Josh, please."
" Is everything alright with the car?" Sammie asked.
"The car is perfect, and as a matter of fact, we are looking for another."
"Do you have something in mind?"
"Well, believe it or not, another Outback. We love this one."
"New or used?"
"A 2016 or newer. It will be sitting for two weeks or so every month."
"So," Sammie says, "The car will be for Nikki? She's still in the Navy; I take it."
"She is."
"We just got a green 2017 with 56300 k. It's the luxury model and has all the bells and whistles... Leather seats, side-mirror turn signals, sunroof, lane departure warning system, cruise control, Bluetooth and of course, all of the standards. It's priced at $25,000. Would you like to come and see it? I'll put a hold on it for you."
"Yes, can you hold for a minute while I talk to Nikki?"
"Of course…"
Josh found Nikki in Gale's room and told her about the car, and she was excited to go and see it.
"Okay, I'll set it up for this morning if I can."
Back on the phone, " Sammie? We would love to come in to see it. Do you have time this morning?"
"Does 10:30 sound okay?"
"Perfect, We'll see you then."
The car was perfect. Putting half down, they financed the remainder. The car would be ready for them in two days.
Two days later: Driving the car home, Nikki was excited and called Josh over her Bluetooth. "Josh, the car is fabulous! I love it."
"So glad, Luv."
"We need to get a second car seat."
"Huh, right, I hadn't thought about that. Maybe later we'll go out and get one."
"That's a plan. See you at home."
"Bye, Luv."
Christmas just a week away, Sally and Chris had invited them along with Mike and Kate to Christmas dinner.
Both Josh and Nikki had last minute things to do. Josh needed to pick up the bracelets and get a few more things for Nikki's box. Nikki wanted to get Josh something smaller to open so that she could spring the dive gear on him after.
John had called Nikki and told her that the dive gear was ready to be picked up.
"Thanks, John. Josh has PT tomorrow. I'll come up and pick it up then."
"No worries, what time do you think that you will get here?"
"Josh will leave for PT at 9:45. I'll leave right behind him, so...10:15 - 10:30."
"We'll see ya then."
As expected, Josh left the house at 9:45. Nikki had Gale's bag all already to go, so she scooped her up and got her tucked into her new car seat as soon as Josh left the house. Then she tossed her stroller into the back and was on her way, arriving as promised at 10:20.
"Hey, Nikki! Happy Holidays!" Scotty greeted her. "John will be right back; he just had to go down to the boat for a sec."
"That's fine."
"Here, let me get the gear for you," Scotty went into the backroom as John came through the door.
"Hey Nikki,' he said, sounding like his brother. "I think that Josh is going to be extremely pleased with this stuff. All top line, the regulator is the best available." He took everything out of the box for Nikki to see. "Scotty, will you grab the tanks?"
"Sure," and he returned to the back room and came back with two bright green tanks.
"Wow! You sure won't miss him when he's underwater with those things."
They both laughed, "That's actually not a bad thing."
Nikki paid them, and they carried the box with his wetsuit and gear and the tanks to her car. She had brought a blanket to toss over everything even though her windows were deeply tinted. Turning back to the brothers and with a hug, "Thank you guys, this is fantastic."
"No worries," John said.
Scotty added, "pleased to help. Enjoy your Christmas."
"You guys too."
After leaving the marina, she headed for the municipal car park. She wanted to look for something for Josh and a new Christmas outfit for Gale.
She hit the shops, found two shirts and board shorts for Josh, and got him a bottle of his favourite aftershave (which just happened to be her own), she thought, smiling to herself. Then she found the perfect little sundress for Gale in Togs for Tots.
"Well, little one, what do you say? We should skedaddle home and have lunch with your Poppa, yes?" Nikki said as she clipped her into her car seat and placed a kiss on her head.
While Nikki was out doing her thing, Josh was doing his. PT finished at 11:00, and he then headed downtown to pick up the bracelets.
The bell over the door tinkled as he walked into the store.
"Hello, Josh. No little one today?"
"She's with her Mum. I just came from PT."
"Well, I think that you are going to be very pleased with how they look," as she reached under the counter and brought out two boxes, opening them so that Josh could see.
"Mrs Lamonte, these are perfect! Just what I had imagined. Thank you!"
"The pleasure is all mine."
Josh paid for them, and Mrs Lamonte offered to wrap them for him. "Thanks, that would be great."
Ten minutes later, he was off to finish the final touches of what he came to think of as 'Nikki's favourites box'. Stopping at the grocery, he got a large bag of dark chocolate kisses and a bag of dark chocolate Lindt's truffles and two packages of caramel Tim Tams. And lastly, a box of her favourite tea finished it off.
Nikki was surprised that she had made it home before Josh. Gale was asleep in her seat, so Nikki left her there for a moment while she brought Josh's box and tanks into their storage room, placed them in a corner and used that same blanket to cover them over. Then she moved some things around to disguise the blanket cover. Little did she know that Josh's box for her was on the opposite side of the room.
Nikki had just gotten Gale upstairs when she heard Josh come in. He quickly stashed his shopping bag into the back of the closet then made his way upstairs, finding Nikki in Gales room. She was sitting in the rocker with Gale.
"Hey, Babe," going over to her and kissing her. " How was your morning?"
"Well, I went out for a bit, got a little more shopping done. It's really nice having the second car. How about you?"
"Me too did a bit of shopping after PT. Did you have lunch?"
"No, not yet."
"I'll make us some sandwiches. See ya downstairs."
"I'll be down in a minute. She slept for a little bit in the car; I want to see if she'll go back to sleep. It looks like she might."
Josh smiled, feeling a rush of warm love for his wife and baby and left for the kitchen. Later they would be heading to Kate and Mikes for their party.
They arrived at the Flynns just a little after four. Most of the Hammersley crew was there already. Josh wasn't using the cane, but he still had a limp. He was told by his physical therapist that he probably would have for a while. At least he was able to carry Gale now.
Kate greeted them as they walked into the back garden. "Hey, Josh! You're looking like you're getting around much better."
" I am. I haven't used the cane in almost a week. Just need to get rid of the limp."
" Does it still hurt?"
"Occasionally, if I'm on it for too long, it aches. Then I ice it and take Motrin."
They made the rounds saying hello to everyone. Buffer came up to him with a beer, "here ya go, Mate. Good to see ya."
"Back at-cha Buff."
Mike and Charge were grilling, and Josh made his way over there while Nikki took Gale over to see Sally and meet Buffer's girlfriend.
They passed a pleasant evening with their friends, leaving at 9:30 to head home.
Christmas Eve:
With nothing special planned, they did their usual walk in the morning, followed by breakfast. Later, Josh was sitting at the piano, plucking out some Christmas Carols, when Nikki came up and hugged him from behind, nuzzling his neck causing him to moan contentedly.
."Feel like going to the beach?"
"Sure...Yeah, sounds great," he leaned back for a kiss.
"I'll pack us lunch, snacks and drinks."
Thirty minutes later, they were off to Kewarra Beach. Thirty minutes after that, they were sitting in their favourite spot. Being that it was Christmas Eve, the beach was relatively quiet. They let Gale play in the sand; they walked the surf and took turns swimming. After lunch, they lay back reading while Gale napped. As the afternoon waned, they packed up and headed for home.
Once they had Gale settled, they had a light supper of omelettes and bacon, then settled in front of some old Christmas classics with a bowl of popcorn. They were snuggled on the couch when Josh realised that it was just past midnight. Looking down at Nikki, he lifted her chin with his finger and kissed her. " Merry Christmas, my Love."
"Merry Christmas," reaching for him and kissing him deeply. "A bit different from last Christmas."
"But just as special."
They continued kissing and caressing each other, their passion increasing until they started pulling at each other's clothes."Nikki," Josh said breathlessly, "let's take this upstairs." Kissing again.
"You read my mind."
Later they fell asleep in each other's arms. In the morning, they showered together, dressed and went in to check on Gale. She was sleeping like the little angel that she was, and they spent a few minutes, arms around each other, just watching her sleep, both of them filled with love for their little miracle.
Once they made their way downstairs, Nikki felt like a little kid. She was so excited to give Josh his gift.
"Brekky or prezzies," Nikki asked.
Sensing her excitement, " Prezzies."
They both had slipped their gifts under the tree. Nikki kept Josh's big-box hidden. Sitting on the floor in front of the tree, she brought out Josh's first box.
When he opened it, he found two new shirts. "These are great, Nikki; I'll wear one later."
She smiled. The next box she gave him had several new pairs of boxers and his
(her) favourite aftershave. She handed him the last one, two pairs of board shorts.
"Nikki, this is all fantastic, thank you, Luv," leaning over and kissing her.
"Josh, there's one more…" she got up and went to the closet and muscled out a large wrapped box.
"What's this now?"
"Well… open it."
Tearing off the paper and then opening the cardboard box, he was speechless.
"Nikki, I... I don't know what to say. This is amazing!" and he started removing each piece from the box. "This is all top of the line stuff!"
"John and Scotty helped me. I know how much you love diving, and I wanted you to have your own gear again. Your tanks are in the storage room. I hope you don't mind bright green," she laughed. "Scotty picked them out. He said high visibility was good."
"Honey, I wouldn't care if they were hot pink with butterflies on them," then he pulled her to him for a deep kiss. "This is all so wonderful. Thank you, Luv."
"Your welcome. I love you."
"I love you too. I can't believe that you did all of this," kissing her again.
Gale woke up then, and they went together to get her up. After good morning kisses, Nikki got her changed while Josh went to get a bottle.
Nikki returned to the living room with Gale and plopped her in her activity seat. Nikki moved the seat near the tree so Gale could look at the lights while she had her bottle. They just watched her for a moment.
"It's amazing how fast they grow. I can't get over how she is crawling all over the place." Nikki muses. They now had to navigate baby gates at the stairs.
"It is fun to watch. Now, it's your turn," Josh said as he crawled to the back of the tree bringing out a large square box wrapped in Christmas paper and a large red bow. " No, it's not dive gear," he says, teasing.
"The box is beautiful!" Nikki sat on the floor in front of him and tore into the paper. Opening the flaps of the box, she peers inside and grins at all that she sees.
"Josh! It's a box full of my favourite things!" There was her favourite special shampoo, the one that made Josh just want to bury his face in her hair, bath salts, candles, scented bubble bath and body wash. Then there was her favourite perfume (it just happened to be his favourite too). There was the giant bag of Hersey's Dark chocolate Kisses, a Bag of dark chocolate Lindt's truffles, her favourite tea, and a new unbreakable coffee cup for the boat with his and Gales picture on it. A framed picture he had taken with Gale in the park, a bottle of her favourite wine and a romance novel.
"Josh! My God! This is amazing! You managed to get all of my favourites! Thank you, Luv," and she leans forward and kisses him. "I love the cup!"
"Ah, Nik, you missed something. Dig deep."
"How can there possibly be more?" as she started to move things around, and then she came up with a small wrapped box. She looked at him and then opened it.
"Josh! It's beautiful!" Then looking at him curiously, "Ah, it's got your name on it."
"Yup, that was the whole idea, so that I will always be with you. Turn it over."
" Forever Yours"
"Here, let me see," and he put it on her wrist.
Nikki held out her wrist and was admiring the bracelet when Josh says, "Now, the other half of your prezzy is… ME!" He grinned and took out the other box.
Nikki unwrapped this box to find a man's id bracelet identical to hers with her name on it and the same inscription on the back, "Forever Yours".
Picking up his bracelet, she reached for his hand and put it on his wrist. "These are simply fantastic. I love it! Josh, like my wedding band, this doesn't come off. I don't believe you. You are such a romantic."
"You make it easy, Luv." and they moved to the couch and snuggled. Nikki couldn't stop looking at her bracelet.
Looking at Nikki, "Do you want to walk before or after brekky?"
"Let's eat first, then we can let Gale do her prezzies and after, we'll walk."
"Okay, well, sounds like a plan. What do you feel like for breakfast?"
"Scrambled, toast, and bacon?"
" You got it, Babe," he said, getting up from the couch and heading into the kitchen. He got breakfast together while Nikki played with Gale.
The breakfast dishes sorted out; they helped Gale to tear off the wrappings on her gifts. She received some new outfits from her Grandparents and Aunt's and Uncles, plus some new toys from Mum and Dad and the family.
After cleaning up the wrappings, they gathered up Gale and headed out for their daily walk. As they left the garage, they ran into Mrs Watson walking her Dachshund, Schatzi. Emma noticed them emerging from the garage with the stroller, so she stopped to say Merry Christmas.
"Mrs Watson! Merry Christmas!" Nikki calls out.
"It's Emma, please, and a very Merry Christmas to you all as well. This little angel gets bigger and, if possible, cuter every time I see her."
"Thanks, Mrs...Emma," Josh says.
"How's that ankle doing? I notice that you aren't using the cane as often."
"It's coming along. I'm trying to wean off using the cane."
"Good for you, that was such a thing."
"It was. Sure did put a crimp on my lifestyle."
"Nikki, will you be going back to sea?"
"After the first of the year. Probably during the first week of January. That is as long as I can keep Josh away from skateboarders," she smiles at him, teasing.
"Well, I'll let you get to it. Merry Christmas!" Emma says as she continues on her way.
"Merry Christmas!" Both Nikki and Josh call out.
"She's very sweet," Nikki says.
"She is."
"Do you see much of the 'Cat Ladies'?"
"Well, I think that with you being home, you scare them away," he says with a cheeky grin, and she gives him a swat on his arm. "Actually, I see them at the pool sometimes. They say hello, but keep their distance."
"That's good to hear."
"You're not worried, are you?"
"No… I just…"
Josh stopped walking for a moment and pulled her close, and kissed her forehead. "You just remember how much I love you."
Kissing him back, " I love you too. I just don't like sharing," she grinned.
They ended up in the park. After walking the trail to the pond, they sat on a bench in the garden, enjoying the beautiful day. They took Gale out of the stroller and let her crawl around in the grass, having to continually chase her as she was getting fast.
Getting back to the house around 10:30, it was almost time for their first family video call.
At 11:00, Josh's laptop signalled a video chat. He answered and saw his Mum and Dad's smiling faces.
"Merry Christmas, Josh!"
"Merry Christmas!"
"Where's Nikki?"
"She's changing Gale; she'll be right here."
Nikki came into the room and sat next to Josh on the couch with Gale on her lap. "Hey, Mum, Dad, Merry Christmas. Thank you for all of the wonderful gifts that you sent."
"The same to you. My goodness, she is getting big. She's grown so much just since the time that I was there."
They continue to chat for another 15 minutes or so before saying goodbye with promises to talk soon.
Later, around 1:00, it was Nikki's parents' turn for a video visit. They wished each other a Merry Christmas. Dom and Sophia gushed over Gale. They asked Josh how he was getting on, and then, of course, no conversation would be complete without…
"So, Nikki, it's been, what almost 10 weeks of being home. Are you actually going to go back out? Isn't it nice being home?" Sophia asks.
"I'm not going to deny that it's been nice, but I will be going back after the first of the year."
"Really, Nikki…"
"Really, Mum…"
The conversation, fortunately, stopped there. They talked for a few more moments and said goodbye and Merry Christmas.
Josh went to play as Nikki gave Gale a bottle and rocked her while listening to the music. The bottle finished, Gale slipped off to sleep, and Nikki brought her to her room.
Getting up from the piano, Josh met Nikki on the couch and pulled her down with him. They snuggled into each other and napped themselves.
At three o'clock, it was time to get ready to go to the Blakes. Josh chose one of his new shirts to wear, and Nikki picked out a favourite sundress. Gale, of course, looked like an angel in a new Christmas outfit from Nana Holiday.
Sally greeted them at the door when they arrived.
"Nikki! Josh! Come in, come in! Merry Christmas!" she exclaimed, giving each of them a hug.
They stepped inside, Josh carrying Gale while Nikki carried the pavlova she had brought for dessert.
"Here, Nikki, I'll take that. Thank you. Josh, Chris and Mike are outback. Grab yourself a beer if you like."
"Alright, think that I will," he said, heading into the kitchen.
"Sally, dinner smells wonderful!"
"Thank you. Should be as good too, I hope." She laughed as she set the cake on the bench and poured Nikki a glass of wine.
"It's good to see you both!" Kate greets them with a hug."We've missed you on the ship. Your temp is doing fine, but she's not you. Josh! You're walking! You look good."
"Just started dropping the cane this week. Feels good to have two hands and two feet." he joked.
Josh went out to the backyard with Gale and his beer to join the others.
"Well, it's another hour before I have to worry about dinner, so how about we join the boys," Sally says.
Chris had set up a croquet course. "Is anyone up for a go at croquet?" he asked.
" Fun!" Nikki answered.
" Hey, Flynn, are you in?" Kate asked Mike.
Sally had set up her play yard for Gale to use, and Josh set her in it. Seeing all of the different toys, she went right for them and was quite content while the adults set about their game. Even little Chris, with the help of his mum and Chloe with her dad's help, joined in.
Dinner was ready at 6:00. Sally had made a sweet ham, scalloped potatoes, with some broccoli and fresh rolls. A small table was set aside for the kids, and a highchair for Gale was at the table next to Nikki and Josh.
"Chris, a toast?" Sally asked her husband.
"To family, friends and RAN, who without which we wouldn't be together and who paid for this feast! Merry Christmas"
"Merry Christmas," they all repeat while laughing.
"Sally, everything is fabulous!" Nikki tells her, and there are words of agreement from around the table.
"So," Sally says, " What did Josh get you for Christmas?"
"Well, he got me a huge box of my favourite things, all of my favourites. Dark chocolate, not milk," Nikki teased Kate. "Scented candles and scented bath stuff. Perfume, his favourite, of course," that brought out some laughter. Wine, tea, caramel chocolate Tim Tams and a naughty nighty, also for him," more laughter.
"Good God, Mate!" Chris exclaimed. "Way to make the rest of us guys look bad!"
"Josh, what a fabulous idea," Kate tells him.
"But wait, I'm not done," Nikki says, grinning as she holds out her wrist to show off her bracelet. Kate, who was closest to her, took her hand to see it more closely and read the inscription.
" Josh, that's lovely, but… your name is on it," she questioned.
Josh spoke up and lifted his arm to show his as well. " Nikki's name is on mine."
" 'Forever Yours' is inscribed on the back," Nikki adds.
"I know, dorky, it's to keep us close when we aren't," Josh explains.
"Not dorky, sweet," Sally says.
"Dorky!" both Chris and Mike tease.
"They're beautiful," Kate adds.
"Okay, Josh, how did Nikki top that?" Sally asks.
"Oh, I think she came close," he says, grinning. "Nikki replaced all of my lost dive gear and with better stuff than I had before and just to throw me off… She gave me two shirts; This is one of them, board shorts, boxers, and aftershave, her favourite, of course." More chuckles.
"Nikki, how nice. What a great idea." Chris says to her.
"He's started diving again, and I know how much he loves it. He's been going out weekly with the fellas he used to work for, using their equipment. I thought he should have his own gear." Josh leans over and gives her temple a peck.
"Kate, your turn."
"Well, Mike got me a new seabag."
They all stopped eating and just looked at him.
"A seabag?" Chris asked. Then, "And you are still in one piece?"
"Wait, I'm not finished. It was filled with several items of clothing that won't be seeing the ship," she laughed. "And chocolates, lots of chocolates… milk, not dark," she said to Nikki, laughing, which was joined by the rest of the table.
"Mike?"
"My beautiful and thoughtful wife got me an antique ink drawing of the first Australian Navy Ship for my office. It's wonderful."
"Good one, Kate," Josh said.
"Okay, Sally, now it's your turn," Nikki tells her.
"Chris got me these diamond earrings."
"They're gorgeous!" Nikki says.
"Stunning!" adds Kate. "Good job, Chris."
" Alright, Swaino, you're up!" Josh says.
"My lovely and sweet wife got me the new golf clubs that I have been drooling over. They are absolutely perfect, and I can't wait to try them out. ET, when do you think you'll be able to play again?"
"The ankle is still a bit unstable and hurts if I turn on it. So I'm guessing at least a couple of months."
"Well then, we'll make it a plan when your ankle is up to it."
"Good."
They continued chatting and telling Hammersley stories. Sally didn't mind; she had heard them all so many times she felt like she was there too.
Sally, Nikki, and Kate cleared away the dishes. Sally then returned with a tray carrying the pavlova, dessert dishes and coffee.
After dessert, Sally brought out a hat with trivia questions written on pieces of paper. Guys against the Gals. The girls would draw a question, and then the guys. The first side with the wrong answer sorts out the kitchen. The men lost. So while they were working in the kitchen, Nikki, Kate, and Sally enjoyed another glass of wine while watching the kids playing with their new toys.
At 8:30, Josh and Nikki said their goodbyes and headed for home with another shout out of "Merry Christmas."
Gale was asleep when they got home, and Josh carefully got her out of her car seat and up to her room. He gently changed her without her waking, kissed her head softly and laid her in her cot, covering her with her blanket.
He returned downstairs when he heard Nikki call for him. She was on the balcony where she had lit the tiny white Christmas lights and some candles. She was wearing her new peignoir set. Walking out and onto the balcony, Josh sees her sitting there with a glass of wine looking absolutely stunning. He bends and kisses her deeply, then takes the glass of wine that she offers.
"Nikki, you are so beautiful, and I am so looking forward to unwrapping you," he says with a gleam in his eyes.
Taking a sip of wine and looking at him over her glass, "I'm looking forward to it."
They sat sipping their wine and playing footsie while chatting about the day.
"I still can't get over how you got me all of that gear. It's so special, thoughtful. I'll be thinking of you every time I use it. Especially when I'm pulling on my wetsuit," said with a lusty grin. "So, you've been warned."
Laughing, "I'm not afraid, Mister. And you should talk, talk about special things. I just absolutely love the bracelets. I'll always have you close to me. And… And the box of goodies! You thought of everything!"
"What can I say. I pay attention." with a smile that just melts Nikki away.
Their wine finished, Josh stood, blew out the candle. He reached out his hand for Nikki and pulled her up to him, wrapping her in his arms, kissing her thoroughly while holding her almost impossibly close. Nikki wrapped her arms around his neck and drew her fingers through his curls, driving him crazy.
Breaking the kiss but not letting go of her, he leans back a bit so that he can see her. "Nikki Holiday, I love you so very much."
Nikki pulls him to her for another kiss. Then, " Josh Holiday, you are my everything." Pulling away, she takes his hand and leads him upstairs. Josh unwraps his present, and she unwraps hers. Falling into bed, they make love to each other, which is exactly what it is.
Later, they are lying quietly in each other's arms, each lost in their own thoughts:
( I can't believe how incredibly lucky I am to have won over Nikki. This could have failed in so many ways, and now, there isn't life without her.) He leans and kisses her forehead.
( My God, to think that I almost lost the chance at this kind of love, this man. We have grown stronger. The island just strengthened our love.) She leans up and places a kiss on his jaw.
" Merry Christmas, my love," Nikki whispers.
"Merry Christmas," placing another kiss on her forehead. Then they drifted off to sleep.