Hi everyone!
Thank you readers and kind reviewers.
Hope all are well and safe!
I just want to say I was sad to hear that
Fingers has passed on the televised series.
Unfortunately I cannot watch the series
at least until it becomes available to me
on DVD.
Today's chapter is short but we needed a bit
of fluff ... somthing to warm the heart. x
Chapter 19
A Snapshot of Love
… The following day
1800 – Hereford, UK
Laura was sprawled on the lounge floor playing with her kitten whom she had decided to name Newton. The fluffy fur ball bounced and pounced gleefully as she teased him with various toys. Georgie watched them from the sofa. The sounds of Laura's giggles and the jingling of the tiny bell on Newton's collar touched her heart. There was such joy in this innocent exchange and she thought about what it will be like when she hears laughter from her own child for the very first time. Laura loved playing with her Nan Simms' cat and Elvis felt she should have a pet of her own, despite Debbie's initial resistance.
The tide was beginning to turn however. Just as Elvis' mum had predicted, Debbie became engaged to Reginald over the Christmas holiday. Although Georgie and Elvis were happy for Debbie, they had concerns about how Laura would adapt to all of the changes, what with her mother's imminent marriage and Georgie's pregnancy. There was no question the distance between Hereford and London hampered the relationship between father and daughter, and soon Reginald would be taking up residence with Debbie. The Hartes were able to spend the long Easter weekend with Laura but tomorrow both were required to report back to duty on base. They did not have the luxury to take an extended leave. Every moment Elvis could spend with Laura was precious. Unfortunately at present, he was secluded in the bedroom on a call from Dave Warner. Georgie momentarily stared at the bedroom door hoping he would soon emerge. At least the army left him alone until this evening, but Debbie and Reginald would soon be on their threshold. Since they had additional holiday after Easter Debbie decided Laura should return to London with them by car. It made better sense now that Newton was in tow.
Georgie was unexpectantly whisked from her musings as Newton shot past her legs. Laura jumped up from the floor to chase after him. Georgie chuckled as she blurted out, "Scared the shit out of me!"
Laura crawled under an end table to capture the kitten and emerged laughing. "He's naughty"
Georgie laughed as well but the delight paled from her face when Laura asked, "Did you say shit Georgie?"
She would not lie and nodded in disgrace. "I did."
"Mummy will yell at you."
"Mummy's not here right now Laura. Just let it be."
"Oh I won't tell. I said one of Daddy's words once and I had to sit in my room." Laura said walking over to the sofa cuddling Newton. Georgie could just imagine the word Laura was referring to and decided to take her own advice and let it be. She watched Laura rock the kitten like a little baby and smiled warmly.
"Do you want to hold him?"
Georgie's smile grew, "I would love to honey."
Laura carefully handed Newton over then sat down on the sofa. "I love him." She said, reaching a small hand to pet the top of his head. "Daddy must have told the Easter Bunny I really wanted a kitty."
Georgie looked up as she gently stroked the soft fur. "Your Daddy would do that for you." She said, taking a heartfelt look at this little girl.
Laura nodded. "I always miss Daddy. I love him. Mummy said Reginald will be with us now." She said kicking her legs forwards and backwards. Georgie's breath hitched. It was difficult to hear the sadness in the child's voice. It touched her deeply that she was confiding in her.
"Your Daddy will always, always be here for you Laura. Even if he doesn't live with you. He loves you very, very much." Georgie said now gently stroking the back of Laura's head.
Laura smiled and nodded again. "You'll have a baby. Like my kitty."
Georgie smiled. "And you young lady will be a big sister! Just like Daddy told you, it is a very important job. We will need your help."
"Really?" Laura said, warming to the idea.
"Absolutely."
Laura grinned and scooted closer to Georgie. "Look. Newton is sleeping." She whispered.
"Take him." Georgie said. "He will want to be with his mum." She tenderly placed the sleeping kitten in Laura's lap and kissed her temple. Georgie felt a presence and looked up. Elvis was standing in the doorway to the bedroom. How much had he heard she wondered? His face informed her he had witnessed it all. She could see it in his eyes. Laura followed Georgie's gaze.
"Daddy! Look! Newton is taking a nap. He played loads with me."
Elvis smiled and walked towards them. He handed his mobile to Georgie and then reached down for Laura. "Come 'ere Angel." He said picking her up into his arms as she clutched Newton. He kissed her cheek and she placed an arm around his neck, kissing his cheek in return. Georgie angled his mobile and began to take pictures. The love between father and daughter was captured perfectly.
"You too Georgie!" Laura said.
Elvis moved to sit on the sofa and took the mobile. Laura sat in between them holding Newton. Elvis extended his long arm and took the shot. Their smiles could not have been brighter. It was truly a snapshot of love.
