A/N: Thank you for your lovely reviews. Apologies for the delay. Real life got in the way.
"How's your day looking, love?" Robbie enquired over breakfast and Laura smiled over her coffee cup at him. "Mmm, well, I'm on call, but I've got some data sets to work through, so that's my morning," she replied cheerfully. "How about you?" she enquired, and Robbie entwined his fingers with hers. "Just a routine day in the office. Need to start some prep ahead of that Clancy case going to trial" he replied and Laura cast her mind back. "Clancy," she mused "wasn't that a DV case?" and Robbie nodded. "Aye, that's the one," he replied and Laura quirked an eyebrow at him. "We should probably get into the office," she mused and Robbie nodded. "Indeed, love," he replied, loosening his hand, and collecting the crockery, depositing it in the sink. He picked up his tie, and Laura smiled at him. "Want me to do that?" she murmured and he grinned at her. "Well, you always seem to quite enjoy doing it," he replied cheerfully and she stepped into his arms. Laura took the tie from him and then loosened his collar. She tiptoed up and pressed a kiss to his cheek. Robbie allowed his hands to rest on her waist as she slid the fabric around his collar before deftly knotting it and adjusting it to her satisfaction. "There we go," she said, and he ducked his head to kiss her again. "Thanks love," he said and she smiled. "I'm going to head off," she said and Robbie drew her in for a final kiss. "See you later, pet," he replied warmly "Love you." Laura shrugged her jacket on before blowing him a kiss and picking up her briefcase. "Love you too," she replied and he flashed her a smile. As she reached her car, Laura unlocked it, and dropped her bag on the front seat. Life right now felt good, stable and happy. She inhaled slowly, and smiled to herself. Subtle notes of late autumn air. Perfect.
Life had passed in a fairly straightforward fashion since the Ganza case for both Laura and Robbie. They'd settled into a routine, carefully balanced between her place and his, discretely spending time together. Laura had found herself in court quite a lot lately and had been in the process of applying for promotion now that it was clear that the Chief Pathologist was retiring, and Robbie's caseload had been fairly routine. Naturally, their paths had crossed at work but Laura was making the most of a lull in the year, though, she mused, it was only a matter of time before it all kicked off again. They'd both managed a decent amount of holiday over the summer, some of it together. Robbie had been to Italy with Lynne, spending some quality time with his daughter in the run up to the birth of his first grandchild. And he and Laura had managed another weekend together down in Suffolk, both of them welcoming some time together where they weren't watching over their shoulders. As a result, they were both fairly relaxed and all seemed well in the world. Inevitably, however, Laura was proved right, and they soon found themselves sizing up a crime scene together.
"Andrea de Ritter, she lived alone. She's downstairs," James greeted Robbie as he made his way onto the scene. Robbie glanced around the living room, and his gaze fell on the man pacing about the room. "Who's that?" he asked James quietly. "Liam Cullen. Friend." James replied, turning and heading back down towards the body. "He found her this morning about nine. He had a spare key," James explained, heading down the stairs. "Do we know when she died?" Robbie enquired and James loitered on the stairs. "Hobson's still taking a look, but I know who killed her. Albert Einstein," he replied and Robbie frowned. Once they reached the utility room, James gestured to the sink. "Single blow to the back of the head, with that," James explained, pointing to a bust of Einstein, sat in the sink and accompanied by a bottle of bleach. Robbie's heart sank slightly. "I presume the bleach is to get rid of the DNA?' he asked, returning to the main room, as Laura stripped off her gloves and stood up from her position crouched next to the body. She looked up at him, amusement apparent in her features. "You're learning," she remarked cheerfully "you used to think 'DNA' meant 'don't know anything." "Better than thinking CID stands for 'coppers in disguise'" Robbie retorted and Laura chuckled. He regarded her affectionately, and James's voice cut through their banter. "If I may, there's a dust sheet on the plinth up there which would fit Albert," he remarked. "Yes, it was thrown down on her from behind to keep the blood splatter off the killer," Laura replied "and then he or she cleaned it up." She glanced at Robbie again. "Timing?" Robbie asked and Laura considered her answer. "Can't do better than say four hours after 9.30 last night," she replied, crouching down to her kit box again. "Right," replied Robbie absentmindedly, walking over to the cardboard boxes and picking up one of the books. "The Gifted Child," he read aloud and Laura glanced between him and James affectionately. "Don't speak about Sgt. Hathaway like that," she quipped "you'll give him a big head." Laura picked up her kit and then turned back to Robbie. "Bye," she said cheerfully and strolled away from the scene.
"James seems to have found a kindred spirit in that Suskin kid," Robbie mused to Laura in the pub that evening and Laura rolled her eyes. "I can well imagine that James was quite the prodigy in his own time," she replied and Robbie snorted with laughter. "Yeah, I bet he was," he replied, resting his hand over hers quickly. Laura shook her head. "Speak of the devil," Laura observed, lifting her hand in greeting to James, and he strolled over to them. "Evening, sir, Dr. Hobson," he said cordially. "James, how's the arsenic poisoning panning out?" Laura enquired and James sighed. "Well, I can't say its an experience I'm that keen to repeat," he replied. "Never mind, eh James. Let me get you a pint," Robbie offered kindly.
"Dr Hobson seems… uncharacteristically cheerful, don't you think?" Hathaway observed later that day, and Robbie leant back in his chair, a frown creasing his forehead. "I suppose she was quite chipper," he mused before shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly, and returning his attention to the file in front of him. "Well, at least she's got over the mood she was in on the last case," Hathaway murmured and Robbie snorted softly. Hathaway regarded him slightly suspiciously. Robbie ignored him, and kept reading but James wasn't done. "I can't work Hobson out sometimes, you know?" James pressed and Robbie made a non-committal noise whilst maintaining the pretence of reading. "I'm sure she'll appreciate your insight regardless," came a voice from the door and James veritably leapt from his seat. Robbie smirked. He hadn't actually realised Laura had materialised in the doorway, but he was greatly amused to see James' reaction. "Good afternoon Laura," Robbie said politely and Laura quirked an eyebrow at him. "Good afternoon Robbie," she replied "I had a page from the lab, asking me to call in on my way past, so here I am, at your disposal." Robbie glanced at James who looked at a total loss. "I am very sorry, Dr. Hobson," James said formally and Robbie could tell her was mortified to be caught gossiping. Laura glanced at him coolly and raised an eyebrow. "I assume you called me for something urgent?" she enquired and Robbie decided to cut James some slack. "I was wondering if you could help me understand better how arsenic poisoning manifests?" Robbie said "and what sort of doses would constitute acute poisoning?" Laura glanced at James. "Sure you don't want to defer to Hathaway's expertise?" she enquired wryly and James grimaced. "Clearly, Dr. Hobson, you are the recognised expert in these matters," he replied seriously and a flicker of amusement crossed Laura's features. "Well rescued, Sergeant. Perhaps I'll gloss over your previous indiscretion and leave your strike score be?" Laura replied and James blushed furiously. Robbie stood up and retrieved a spare chair for Laura, gesturing that she should sit, were she so inclined and she began to talk them through the complexities of arsenic poisoning, James grimacing as he listened.
As Laura's phone sprang into life at the crack of dawn, she murmured into the pillow grumpily. "Hobson," she said, answering the call and rolling onto her back. She listened carefully to dispatch and then sighed. "Right, yes, I'll… Let the SOCOs seal the scene and I'll be there within the hour," Laura ended the call, and glanced over at Robbie, as he slid his hand over her stomach, holding her waist. He smiled lazily and she leant in for a kiss. "Duty calls," she said sleepily and he kissed her again. 'You going to be alright to let yourself out?" she asked, and he nodded. "Aye pet," he replied, cupping her cheek affectionately and then kissing her again, leaving her in no doubt as to how he'd rather be spending his morning. When Laura came out of the shower, Robbie was sat on the edge of the bed, covers thrown back, and on the phone. As she towelled the moisture from her hair, he glanced up at her and smiled boyishly. She cupped his cheek, stroking his cheekbone with her thumb as he finished the call. "And that's me called in too," he said ruefully and Laura smiled before leaning in for a kiss. "Perks of the job eh?" she murmured and he nodded. "How are you so effortlessly beautiful?" he asked and Laura smiled to herself, as he slid his hands around her waist. "Ever the charmer, Robbie Lewis," she replied and he gazed at her happily. "Go and shave," she murmured, leaning in for another kiss and then extracting herself so that she could go and dress. When Robbie returned from the bathroom, Laura was pulling on her jacket and she smiled at him. "Shall I do your tie?" she asked, doing up a couple more of the buttons on his half buttoned shirt and he shrugged, settling his hands on her waist. Laura tilted her head at him, and then retrieved his tie, looping it round the back of his collar and then turning the collar down. She carefully tied his tie and then tiptoed up for a kiss. "See you later," she said and he kissed her back. "Love you," he murmured and Laura smiled. "Love you too," she replied before heading down the stairs. He heard her scoop up her keys, and then heard the front door slam behind her, before her car engine purred into life and she headed off to the scene. They'd fallen into this routine. Whenever they started their day together now, the last thing they'd say to each other was "I love you." He hadn't meant for this to become a habit, but it had become a source of comfort to both of them. He smiled to himself, and then shrugged his jacket on. He squared the duvet on the bed, and then headed downstairs to find his shoes.
"He was stabbed," James informed Robbie as he made his way down to the cordoned off section of the river bank. Robbie could see Laura, crouched down by the body. "No weapon's been found as of yet, but we've got shoe prints in the soft ground over there,' James gestured to the grass. "Laura," Robbie said in greeting as they approached the body. "Ah, Robbie," Laura said, getting up and coming over to them, clipboard in hand. "First look, I'd say death between ten and two. He has multiple wounds, and it's all a bit messy so I can't yet identify the type of weapon, except that it was small," Laura said as Robbie peered over her. "He still had his wallet on him," James said, "all his cards, and cash." James passed the evidence bag to Robbie. "Mmm, while I think of it. Elmo's toxicology showed LSD?" he asked Laura "I thought LSD was undetectable?" Laura regarded him seriously. "Well, it is usually. i'll call the lab and get back to you," she replied. "Sir, over here," James called to Robbie and Laura flashed him a smile as he wandered over, and then returned to her kit.
"It's not a wound shape I recognise," Laura said, examining another image of it. "Blade could be curved or possibly serrated. I'll have to narrow it down a bit," she continued, cradling the lab phone against her ear. "Ooh, and we missed something in his back pocket." Laura reached for the evidence bag. "I'll send it over." She smiled to herself as Robbie rang off, and then checked herself. Come on Hobson, she thought, get a grip!
"What? Actually in the antenatal class? Never?" It made Laura smile to hear Robbie so animated, obviously talking to Lynne. He chuckled, and she knocked on the office door. "Hang on a minute love," he said to Lynne and he looked at Laura expectantly. She was clearly headed home. "Just thought I'd let you know about Elmo and the toxicology report," Laura said cheerfully. "Oh right?" Robbie said "is it very complicated?" Laura grinned. "I can make it not so," she replied, fiddling with her scarf as she stepped towards him. "The lab detected LSD because it was an absolute brain burner of a dose, absolutely massive," Laura said "if he hadn't have jumped, he'd have been psychotic for the rest of his life. Robbie frowned. "Could he have taken that amount by accident?" he asked. "Well, it's possible," Laura replied "but if anyone had a motive to destroy his mind, i'd assume the worst." Robbie cast a glance at his phone, as though he'd forgotten he was still technically talking to Lynne. "Yeah, I'm still here love," he told Lynne, and then glanced at Laura. "It's our Lynne," he explained and Laura's expression softened. "Give her my love," Laura said. "Yeah, I will," Robbie replied "Sorry, love, you're…" Laura began to step backwards. "I'll go," she said and Robbie gestured as if to stop her, but she'd turned and headed out of the offices before he could intervene. "No, Laura," he said to Lynne "no, no, just work. And how's the morning sickness?" he asked.
As Laura pulled up outside her cottage, her phone chirruped into life and she answered it without glancing at the screen. "Hobson," she said sharply. "You escaped before I could stop you," Robbie said plaintively and Laura sighed. "I didn't want to interrupt" she protested and Robbie made a scoffing noise. "Laura, my love, you weren't interrupting," he told her and Laura chewed her lip. "Lynne sends her love to you too, and wants to know when she gets to see you again," Robbie continued and Laura smiled. "Do you fancy a weekend in Manchester sometime?" Robbie continued and Laura inhaled quietly. "I haven't seen Lynne in ages," she mused and he could tell she was tempted. "Don't tell me the prospect of vicariously becoming a grandmother is putting you off?" Robbie teased and Laura veritably shrieked. "You absolute sod, Robbie Lewis," she protested and he chuckled loudly. "Nice to know I've got you pegged," he retorted and Laura shook her head. "Can I come over later?" Robbie asked and Laura tutted. "I need an early night," she said slowly and Robbie chuckled. "Mmm, yes, me too," he replied and she laughed. "I need to sleep," she protested. "Alright, pet," he said wearily. "Sweet dreams, eh?" Laura smiled to herself. "You too, Robbie." she said softly. "I love you, Laura," he murmured and Laura's smile broadened. "I love you too," she replied.
"Any ideas on the Suskin murder weapon yet?" Robbie enquired over the phone, as Laura was musing over a not insignificant collection of blades. "Well, there's quite a selection," she replied "it's taken me a little while to make up my mind, Robbie, but I think I'm there. Just find somebody who likes cheese." The glee in her voice at having come to a conclusion amused Robbie no end. "Thanks," Robbie said, before ending the call.
One of the new pathology students came in a few minutes later and Laura seized upon the opportunity to explain her conclusions in depth. She talked through the size and shape of the blade, explaining what the entry wound told her about the blade used, and how to calculate that. And then she turned to the selection of blades in front of her, talking through how she'd discounted the different options until there were just three options in front of them. Glancing at the clock, Laura realised she'd been talking for about half an hour now, but that boded well for Siobhan, who was still listening intently. "So?" Laura said, gesturing to the three blades in front of her and Siobhan considered them. "So," Siobhan began "given the size of the wound, I would say that we should remove this blade from the options. And there's something ragged about the edges of the wound, which makes me think that the blade was not straight, perhaps serrated, which means I would discount this blade." Siobhan gestured to the two blades she had ruled out and Laura nodded in approval. "So this one. This is the one I think the evidence points to," Siobhan concluded. "That's the same conclusion I came to," Laura replied warmly. She really enjoyed having pathology students in. It wasn't the easiest field of medicine, especially forensic pathology, and although pathology comprised a significant field within mainstream medicine, forensic pathology had a fairly select field of entry. But Laura loved teaching, took a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment in it, and to her tremendous pride, achieved consistently strong results. Laura had been quietly delighted when the Dean of the Medical School had taken her to one side recently, and invited her to join the school on a permanent basis. Shortly afterwards the Chief Pathologist had retired, and Laura had sailed through the interviews and to her relief had been appointed to the role. The announcement was imminent and Laura, having signed all the necessary paperwork would be much happier once that announcement was made and she could crack on with her work, without having to wonder when the news was coming.
"Have you heard?" Hathaway asked when Robbie came into their office. "Heard what?" Robbie asked, hanging his jacket up. "Innocent has summoned CID to dinner, in Hobson's honour," James replied and Robbie grinned. "Ah, the news has broken then?" he replied and James glanced at him. "Privy to Dr. Hobson's confidences, are we?" he enquired smoothly and Robbie chuckled. "Hardly, but yes, she did tell me about this," he replied and James fixed him with a knowing look. "Nice of the Chief Super, mind," Robbie continued and James nodded. "You coming then?" Robbie asked and James grinned. "Wouldn't miss it for the world," he replied. Robbie's eyes were twinkling. "Aye," he said, simply. There was something weighing on his mind. He wanted to find something to mark this latest achievement of Laura's, not that he'd have let James know that. Laura had worked long and hard for this, and Robbie knew she'd earnt this promotion. He wondered what he could give her, what would be appropriate or indeed discrete. Laura would not appreciate some grand gesture, and even less some public gesture. But he thought she wouldn't mind something in the privacy of their own homes. A decent bottle of champagne, perhaps. He didn't go in much for bubbly, but he knew Laura liked a decent glass of champagne now and again. Perhaps he'd get in touch with Sam and see what he thought.
"That's 'Advanced Science', Erica Penlin," Laura was explaining to another officer as Robbie strolled into CID. The junior officer thanked Laura and turned away, and then Laura turned, and upon seeing Robbie, walked slowly towards him. "Look, sorry about last night," he said "if you're free now, James and me'll be doing something." Robbie leant against the frame and Laura looked up at him. "I've got a better idea," Laura said slowly "come over next Friday." Robbie frowned slightly. This seemed awfully public. "What, to your place?" he said and a flicker of exasperation crossed Laura's face. "I was thinking more the mortuary," she replied sharply and he chuckled. "I'll cook," Laura offered and Robbie paused. "I'll bring a bottle," he replied warmly and then headed past her back to his office as Laura smiled to herself.
"You've set tongues wagging in CID," Robbie remarked as they lay cuddled up on Laura's sofa later that weekend and Laura shifted her weight so that she was facing him. "How do you mean?" she enquired and Robbie grinned. "Someone, somewhere, caught wind of our dinner arrangements for this Friday," he replied and Laura shook her head. Robbie smiled, and caressed her cheek lovingly. "Oh did they now?" she replied wearily and Robbie chuckled. "You invited me to dinner with an audience! I've had all the ribbing you can imagine. If only they knew, eh?" he observed wryly, and Laura rolled her eyes. "Well, happily they don't," she said slightly grumpily, and Robbie kissed her slowly until she broke away from him smiling. "It's been almost a year," he mused and Laura looked at him coquettishly. "When are you counting from?" she enquired and Robbie grinned. He trailed his fingers across her wrist and she smiled. "Mmm, well," Robbie replied, and he pressed a kiss to her temple. "I suppose it depends on your perspective," he continued, pressing a line of kisses down Laura's jaw, and down to her collarbone. "Do we count Dorset, or are we going to pretend we weren't really seeing each other for all of last winter?" he mused as Laura arched her neck slightly, allowing him better access. "I'd be willing to concede there was something between us before September," Laura murmured, amused, sighing as his lips ghosted across her collarbone. "Would you now?" he replied, shifting himself so that he could begin to undo the dress she was wearing, carefully untying the belt, and sliding his hand in to caress her waist, and then trail his fingertips over her breasts, cupping his hand against her bra and stooping down for a long, gentle kiss. He eased the fabric away from her shoulder, his fingertips grazing her skin, and she interlinked their fingers, effectively halting his progress. "Why don't we take this somewhere more comfortable?" she suggested and he grinned. Laura held out her hand and he took it willingly, pulling her towards him again and kissing her sensuously. "Have I mentioned how much I like this dress on you?" Robbie mused and Laura smiled broadly. "I bet it'll look even better on your bedroom floor," he continued and Laura laughed loudly. 'The old lines are the best, eh?" she murmured.
Later, in bed, Laura cradled Robbie against her, and he rested her cheek against her shoulder happily. She trailed her fingertips over his back and she felt him smile. His arm was draped over her waist and his leg over hers. Holding him close like this made Laura feel ridiculously happy. They'd made love tenderly. Robbie knew her so well, heck, they knew each other so well, and being together like this was simply bliss. She pressed a kiss to his forehead and he smiled again. "I love you," he murmured and Laura smiled broadly. "Love you too," she said softly and he kissed her collarbone. Robbie rubbed his thumb over Laura's waist, pressing another kiss to her skin. He could detect the faintest hint of her perfume and the thought made him smile. "You looking forward to your dinner?" he enquired and Laura frowned, still caressing his skin. "Oh, you mean the CID thing?" she asked and he nodded. Laura exhaled slowly and she entwined her fingers together, holding him closely. "Mmm, yes. Jean insisted and I couldn't be bothered to argue," Laura replied and Robbie chuckled. "Well, you deserve it," he replied and Laura smiled to herself. "The Chief Pathologist definitely has a certain ring to it," Robbie continued and Laura's smile broadened. "Oh yes," she said with great satisfaction.
The following Friday, Robbie made his way over to Laura's, as agreed, with a bottle of wine and his overnight bag in tow. He and Laura had managed to spend two nights together over the week and as he and Hathaway had wrapped up the case of the previous week, it had been fairly straightforward. And mid-week, Jean Innocent had followed through on her promise of dinner with an array of CID's finest in attendance. "A toast," Jean had said warmly, raising her glass to Laura. "Dr. Hobson, many of us have been grateful for your quick wit, insightful observations and prompt report provision," Jean began, and a peal of laughter rippled around the room. "So, many congratulations on your promotion to Chief Pathologist, Laura. A well deserved rank, befitting a woman of your talents, and I believe, you're one of the youngest CPs in post in the country. Well done!" A round of warm applause echoed around the group and Laura smiled broadly. At the end of the evening, the group dispersed, leaving Robbie, Jean, James and Laura together in the bar. "Nightcap, anyone?" Jean offered and Laura shrugged easily. "I'm game if you are," she replied and Jean chuckled. She caught the eye of the waiter, and gestured that he should come over to the group. "What would you like, Laura?" she enquired and Laura glanced at the bar. "What say you James, sambuca or limoncello?" she enquired and James sat back in his chair. "God, not sure I'm up to sambuca, Doctor. I've got to be at work in the morning, and I'm afraid you'll drink me under the table," James replied and Laura giggled. "I'll have some Limoncello, please," Laura said to the waiter, and Jean nodded. "All round, please," she agreed and the waiter duly returned to the bar. "Pleasant memories of my trip to Italy," Robbie mused and Laura flashed him an affectionate smile.
"Oh yes, of course," Jean said, swirling the remnants of her glass of red wine. "How's your daughter doing?" she asked and Robbie smiled indulgently. "Baby's due at the beginning of January," he replied cheerfully "something nice to start the New Year with." James and Laura exchanged glances, both aware of the extent to which Robbie was pleased about his forthcoming grandchild. "Does she know what she's having?" Jean asked and Robbie shook his head. "Nah, they decided not to find out, so I guess we'll see in due course," he replied. "Well, that's all very exciting," Jean said and Laura smiled to herself. The waiter appeared at Laura's side, with a tray of glasses and a bottle of liqueur and a small plate of biscuits. "Madam," he said and Laura took her glass gleefully. Once the others were served, she took an appreciative sip. Robbie tapped his glass to hers in a toast. "Congratulations Laura," he murmured and she smiled affectionately at him. "Thanks Robbie," she replied warmly. Jean considered the pair for a moment, resisting a quip. They seemed so comfortable, so right together and it was beginning to pain her that as far as she was aware, they seemed trapped in this rut of something more than friendship. "Not long until the station Christmas party," Jean mused, met with a collective groan from the trio. "I'm sure you'll all be in attendance," Jean continued, and James's face was a picture of pain. "Won't you James?" Jean said and he nodded wearily. "Of course, Ma'am," he replied reticently and Laura smirked, expression clearly amused.
Drinks finished, and with Laura stifling a yawn, the four made their way out of the Italian restaurant which Jean favoured for the CID outings. "Thank you Jean," Laura said earnestly, and Jean leant in to kiss her colleague's cheek affectionately. "You are very welcome, Laura," Jean replied and Laura smiled at her. "I'll walk you home if you like Laura," Robbie offered genially and Hathaway barely suppressed a smirk. Typical Robbie. Always a gentleman. And always there to ensure that the formidable Dr. Hobson would get home in one piece. Hathaway supposed it was something of a hangover from the dreadful business at Homewood, and he sympathised to a certain degree. "Come on Hathaway, you're dithering," Jean's voice broke into his thoughts and he started. "Thank you, Ma'am," he replied "I'll be on my way." He stopped to kiss Laura's cheek briefly, and raising his hand in Robbie's direction, he strolled off into the night in the direction of his flat. A cab materialised and Jean flagged it down. She gave her address to the driver, and opened the door, before turning to wish Laura and Robbie goodnight. "Have a lovely weekend," she called cheerfully, slamming the door behind her and the cab's engine hummed as it drove off into the evening. Robbie turned to Laura and they smiled at each other. "Home, sweetheart?" Laura asked softly and he smiled at her. "Aye," Robbie said, and Laura tucked her hand into his arm. They walked slowly, conversation passing easily between them, until them reached Laura's front door, half an hour or so later. "I hope you're planning to stay tonight?" Laura said as they stood on her front step, her hand resting gently on Robbie's chest. She glanced up at him, eyes wide and hopeful and Robbie smiled boyishly. "If you'll have me," he replied easily and Laura smiled broadly. "Mmm, well," she replied wickedly and he shook his head despairingly. Laura chuckled, and Robbie ducked his head to kiss her softly, his hand slipping around her waist possessively. "Come on then you," she murmured, turning back to her front door and turning the key to let them into the hallway.
Laura frowned at Robbie over her mug of coffee a few mornings later. "What are you up to?" she asked suspiciously. "Me?" Robbie replied and Laura met his gaze levelly. "You, Lewis," she replied tersely before taking another sip from her coffee. Robbie maintained an expression of perfect innocence. "Well, finish your breakfast," he replied "and once we're in the car, I can fill you in." Laura folded her arms and looked straight at him. "What?" Robbie asked and Laura looked at him, eyebrows raised. "Let a man spoil his best girl, eh, our Laura," he said and her expression softened slightly. "I hate surprises," she said petulantly and he chuckled. "Nah, you quite enjoy them once you've got enough detail to trust me," Robbie replied and Laura shook her head in disbelief. "More coffee?" he enquired and Laura took another gulp of her coffee. "No, I'm fine, thanks," she replied and he flashed her a smile. "What do I wear?" she asked and Robbie considered for a moment or two. "Something you're happy to wear all day, but nothing too fancy," he replied and Laura made an exasperated noise. "That's helpful," she replied dryly. "How about that grey dress of yours? The one you wear with your black boots," Robbie replied "and your black coat. It's not that warm out." Laura arched an eyebrow and then set her mug down on the table. "And what about you?" she asked and Robbie sat back in his chair. "Well, I brought that cream shirt I know you like, and some dark grey trousers and a black moleskin jacket," he replied and Laura considered this. He'd clearly given this some thought. Perhaps today was going to pan out better than she initially thought.
It was worth every moment of coordination and contriving with Laura's older brother Sam to see Laura's expression when she walked out of Piccadilly Circus tube station to find her nieces and brother and sister-in-law waiting for her. "Oh my god," Laura said, gripping Robbie's hand and then turning to Robbie, her expression astonished before it turned to sheer joy as her nieces threw themselves at her, hugging their aunt gleefully. "Did you two plan all this?" Laura said, slightly dazed, looking between Robbie and Sam who both resumed innocent expressions. Miriam chuckled, leaning in to kiss Laura's cheek affectionately. "Two men, determined to spoil you,`' she observed "must be awful, Lou," and Laura smiled, a faint blush appearing on her cheek. "We're taking you for tea, Auntie Laura," Naomi said gleefully "at Fortnums!" Laura wrapped her arms around her youngest niece's shoulders and pressed a kiss to the top of Naomi's head, in an attempt to muffle the tears which had suddenly sprung into her eyes. Teddy and Clara each looped an arm through Laura's and the group made their way down to the department store where their afternoon tea was planned. Robbie fell into step with Sam as they meandered down the streets and through the tourists and passers-by.
Once they'd been sat at their table and the girls were chattering happily to Laura, a bottle of champagne appeared at the table and Laura's eyes lit up. She allowed her hand to rest lightly on Robbie's leg and he smiled at her. Sam began to pour glasses out for the grown ups, and exchanged a glance with his wife, before splashing half an inch of bubbly into the glass of his eldest daughter. Clara pouted and Sam relented, pouring her a tiny amount too. "It's a very special occasion," he replied warningly and Clara and Teddy grinned. "I'm so excited about this," Teddy told Laura who returned her smile happily. "So" Sam said "Laura, we are very proud of you. Well done darling. Maintain that formidable facade!" They raised their glasses to Laura, who had blushed slightly pink. "Thank you," she said happily "this is the most lovely surprise, and I feel very loved. So thank you, you lovely lot. You are a wonderful family and I'm so lucky to have you." She linked her fingers into Robbie's as she said this, and squeezed his fingers gently. At that moment, their afternoon tea began to arrive and they began to distribute the sandwiches and pastries between them. Laura enjoyed seeing her nearest and dearest spending time together, over a delicious meal and she was blown away that Robbie and Sam had, apparently, collaborated to plan this. She'd always known Robbie was a good man, kind and devoted but his thoughtfulness in planning such an event went beyond her expectations. This wasn't Robbie's kind of thing and she loved that he'd been prepared to go outside of his comfort zone in order to make something happen that she would enjoy.
"So what are your plans for Christmas then, you two?" Miriam enquired, taking a sip of her tea and Laura sat back in her chair, her hand resting gently on Robbie's knee. They glanced at each other and Robbie shrugged easily. "Well, I'll head up north for the day itself, probably drive up late Christmas Eve and come back on Boxing Day," Robbie replied and Miriam smiled broadly. Robbie interlinked his fingers with Laura's and she smiled. "I'm on call as per usual," Laura said and Miriam rolled her eyes dramatically, while Sam looked amused. "So, will you come to us darling?" Sam asked "Usual arrangements?" Laura grinned at her big brother before she replied. "Ooh, if you'll have me. I'd be hard pressed to turn down a few hours with my lovely nieces," Laura said and Miriam looked pleased. "Perfect," she said with satisfaction "though you'd be very welcome to join us, Robbie, if you did end up staying in Oxford." Robbie nodded. "Thank you, that's very kind. I'll, er, see how the arrangements work out with me daughter, but that's a kind offer," he replied, glancing at Laura and she shrugged easily. "You'll be up in Manchester quite a lot in January, I imagine," she replied softly and Robbie nodded. "Robbie's daughter is expecting her first baby in January," Laura explained and Miriam smiled warmly at Robbie. "Oh congratulations, that's lovely news," she said kindly and Robbie grinned. "Aye, it's be lovely, I expect," he replied. "Auntie Laura," Clara said, listening intently and Laura looked at her middle niece. "If Robbie's daughter is having a baby, does that mean you're going to be a granny?" she asked, just the slightest hint of amusement present in her features.
Robbie laughed loudly and Laura folded her arms, fixing her niece with an look which reduced Clara to giggles. Teddy glanced between her aunt and her sister, perplexed as to what she'd said to garner such a reaction from her aunt. "Why is Auntie Laura giving Clara that look?" she asked, reducing her mother to mirth. Miriam caught Laura's eye and descended further into helpless laughter. Teddy and Naomi looked at each other, as Miriam turned to Sam and leant her forehead against his shoulder, still giggling. Sam smirked and Robbie laughed. He knew that look. Clearly the genes behind that expression ran strongly through the Hobsons. "I think, Teddy, that Auntie Laura isn't that impressed by your sister's very droll observations," Sam replied soberly and Laura glared at him. "Understatement of the century," Laura muttered and Robbie smothered a chuckle, and she elbowed him. "You know, it seems grossly unfair that your baby sister should beat us to grandparenthood, without so much as a bairn of her own," Miriam mused to Sam and he took a sip of his champagne, meeting the gaze of his little sister with much amusement. Laura shook her head and picked up her glass. "I'm going to pretend none of this was ever said," she said grumpily and Robbie squeezed her hand, clearly greatly entertained by this exchange.
The rest of the afternoon passed in a very pleasant fashion. Chatter and banter flowed, as did the champagne and some truly delicious food. At length, they agreed that they were finished with their meal, and with their account settled they strolled out into the late afternoon sunshine. Robbie slid his arm around Laura's waist, drawing her closer to him. "I think we're going to have to say farewell," Sam muted, and Miriam sighed. "We promised the girls a trip to Oxford Street, and you are a most devoted aunt, but I wouldn't inflict this on anyone I truly loved," Miriam explained, and then leant in to kiss Laura's cheek affectionately. "Congratulations darling girl," Miriam continued and Laura hugged her happily. Sam shook Robbie's hand, and then kissed Laura fondly. Miriam kissed Robbie's cheek and bid him goodbye whilst the girls hugged their aunt. "Lovely to see you, Robbie. You and Laura must come down for lunch one weekend soon," Miriam said warmly and he nodded. "That's be nice, thank you," he replied. At length, Robbie and Laura waved Sam and the girls off in the direction of the shops, before heading back down Piccadilly towards Green Park.
"Fancy a stroll before we get back on the tube?" Robbie asked as they walked past the Ritz and Laura smiled. "That'd be nice," she replied and they exchanged contented smiles. The sun was not far off setting but Robbie figured that they had time for a quick stroll in the evening sunshine. He kept his arm around her waist and Laura slid her arm around him. "Thank you so much for today," Laura said softly and Robbie smiled broadly. "My pleasure, pet," he replied and Laura smiled to herself. Robbie pulled her closer and pressed a kiss into her hair. It had really been quite a week, what with the announcement of Laura's promotion and Robbie was full of pride and his partner. And her contribution had enabled them to solve the case they'd been working, for which he was also profoundly grateful. An afternoon out with Laura in London was a very pleasurable end to the week and he was quietly pleased that his plotting with Laura's brother Sam had paid off. It suddenly occurred to Robbie that he hadn't actually voiced his thoughts to Laura, and that, perhaps, it would be timely to do so. He tightened his grip around her shoulders and Laura looked up at him. "I hope you know how proud I am of you, love," he said and Laura smiled. "Thank you," she murmured, tucking her fingers into his side. She did know. Robbie wasn't one for lengthy or pronounced speeches, but Laura was more than aware that he was very proud of her, and all she'd achieved. But it worked both ways. "I hope you know too, Robbie," Laura said softly "that I am pretty proud of you too, and I am always proud to call you mine."