A/N Sorry for the long wait for a new chapter, have been really busy recently and just not had the time to type this. Hope you enjoy!
It's now the first week in August, we have decided to take our first family holiday with Olivia, we have a plane to catch soon, and we're very excited. After much discussion with Marcus and Vera, it was decided that my new permanent role at Wentworth would be better starting after Bridget and I return – Bridget has informed the university that she will now not be returning at all. I have yet to pick an entire team of people, it's a lot harder than I initially thought it would be, after all I'll be working with these people five days a week so I need to ensure I get on with them. The interviews I've conducted so far have been quite bad – but if I'm being honest I'm not entirely sure what to be looking for, especially in a personal assistant, I mean, I'm not exactly one to let people do things for me, so that may be an issue.
"Franky – where are you?" I hear my wife call as I walk back into the house, having just loaded our suitcases into the car.
"In the hall babe – are you and Olivia ready to go? The car is loaded." My wife appears, carrying our daughter, with a nappy bag on her shoulder.
"yes, we're ready to go – oh I'm so excited Franky! Our first family holiday." Bridget says as I guide her out the door and to the car.
"I know – I just hope Olivia will be okay with the flight, I read that babies ears can bother them a lot – because of the pressure and stuff, also with her teething right now she's already in pain from that-"
"Hey hey hey – calm down, don't worry about something that's not happened yet darling, okay?" Bridget says, moving to hold my hand as she sits in the passenger seat.
"I know, I know – I'm being one of those crazy worrier parents, I'll stop." I say, leaning over to peck her lips quickly before driving off towards the airport.
"Four hours later, we are on the plane – it has just taken off, and just like I worried – Olivia is not handling it well.
"I think it must be her ears Franky, once we're at a steady altitude the pressure should ease off a bit – hopefully she'll quieten down by then." Bridget says, stroking Olivia's back up and down as I hold her to my chest.
"I hope that theory is correct babe, because this is a very long flight – and we're gonna piss off a lot of people if she doesn't stop." I say, kissing my daughters head repeatedly, trying to give her any form of comfort.
"Well, she's just a baby, I know it's annoying but Olivia doesn't know any better right now." Bridget says, leaning over to give me a quick kiss.
"I guess – do you want to take her for a bit? She might settle better with you." I remove Olivia from my chest and hold her out slightly towards Bridget.
"It won't hurt to try I guess – come here baby." My wife says, Olivia let's out her first happy gurgling noise of the flight so far when she's snuggled up on Bridget's chest.
"You must be comfier than I am Gidge." I say, looking down to Bridget's chest, where Olivia is using her as a human pillow.
"Well – yes I think there is clear evidence to support that theory." She laughs, looking down at the now quiet baby – whom is falling into a peaceful sleep.
Another four hours pass – I am getting seriously bored on this plane now, I really don't know what possessed us to take such a long flight – but we've both always wanted to travel there – we actually have friends who moved two years ago so we're visiting them, they are being kind enough to take Olivia so Bridget and I can go to an Adele concert on Saturday night – not my idea of fun but Bridget begged me to go. It'll be worth it once we land, and it's summer season so it'll be nice and warm – an added bonus.
"Gidge, how much longer? I'm so bored – what are you reading? Is it any good? It looks like a big book."
"Franky, shut up! What's with all the questions? Firstly, there's still at least six hours to go – you knew what you signed up for when we booked this trip, and I'm reading a new psychology journal, it's very interesting actually. I told you to bring something to keep you entertained, would you like your iPad?" I smile and nod my head eagerly at this.
"Thanks Gidge, oh damn! I forgot to download the new American Horror Story episodes – I was wanting to watch that." I say with a huff.
"Well, good thing you have the most amazing and thoughtful wife the, huh?" she says, turning the iPad to face me, showing she's downloaded every episode of the new season.
"I knew I married you for a reason!" I beam as I go to take my iPad from her, she moves it out of arms reach.
"So that's the only reason you married me? So I would download your TV shows?" Bridget says with a mock pout on her lips.
"You know there's many reasons why I did baby – it's just a bonus you remember these things – that's all." I say, kissing her soundly on the lips.
"You just wanted my body." She says with a wink.
"Oh you have no idea, but I love everything about you – the fact you're the most beautiful women I've ever laid eyes on really is a bonus." I take her hand and stroke my fingers over her knuckles.
"You're just too sweet sometimes – anyway, watch your show, I think I'll try and get some sleep before Olivia wakes up, love you."
"Okay, have a nice nap – love you too."
Finally – after what feels like days, we are in sunny Los Angeles – I have never been more excited!
"Gidge, this hotel is out of this world, Jesus – Olivia practically has her own nursery set up in there."
"I know, I called and said we were travelling with a baby and they recommended this room, not exactly cheap but we're staying for ten days so worth it I think." I smile at this and move to place Olivia in the crib.
"So – I say room service and a chilled night in the hotel, that flight was exhausting!" Bridget says, pulling me over to the huge king sized bed.
"I agree with you, absolutely! Plus, Olivia is already out of it anyway."
"We could rent a movie to watch or something, then plan out what we're going to do each day, I know we're meeting Ally and Sam in a few days so they can take us places, then there's the concert as well which will be good, so great of them to take Olivia overnight for us." My wife says.
"Well, I don't think a baby and a concert at The Hollywood Bowl mix." I laugh.
"Correct – I just hope Olivia will be okay with them, she's never met either of them, plus I hope they'll be okay with her – remember how young they are! I don't think they're used to babies."
"Babe, relax – they offered, it'll be fine – they are mature for their ages, so what if they aren't quite thirty yet? It's only one night."
"I know; I mean I've known Sam since she was Olivia's age! I used to be the one that would watch her when her parents went out – I never thought I'd see the day she was looking after my kid."
"Well her and Al will be fine, I'm sure of it."
The next day, the three of us are out walking along Sunset Boulevard – I have Olivia strapped to my chest, I'm sweating though because it is so warm, and I'm starting to get worried Olivia will overheat.
"Hey Gidget – I think I'll take Olivia out of the carrier and just hold her in my arms – if I'm sweating this much I dread to think how hot she is." I say, stopping so we can lift her out.
"Yeah good idea – she's starting to wake up actually. Hi baby." Bridget coos as she moves to hold her.
"You wanna just carry her for a bit then babe?" I ask Bridget.
"Yeah that's fine – can you take her bag? The carrier should fit in it if you fold it up." I take the bag and the carrier fits in it no problem. I spot a tattoo parlour across the street and can't help but go and have a look.
"Babe, I'm going to check out that tattoo place, you coming with or are you looking at the craft place?" I ask, impatiently dying to run across the street.
"You go ahead, we'll come over and join you once I'm done." I give her a quick kiss then head over to have a look.
Ten minutes later and I'm inside looking at tattoo designs, I've been itching to get another for ages now, I have a full sleeve on my right arm – but my left is a blank canvas still, I would love to get something dedicated to my wife and daughter – but unsure what would represent them.
"Hi – you need any help?" a woman, roughly in her late twenties, blonde hair, blue eyes – at least 5'10 – super hot asks me as I just stare at her, slight smile playing on my lips.
"Umm hey – just thinking about getting a new tat, looking for inspiration." I say, as she walks closer to me.
"An Aussie! Loving the accent, well you've come to the right place for that, where you thinking of getting it?"
"Well, I'm thinking my left arm – not sure about another full sleeve, maybe just a half this time, I'm only in LA for ten days, and I guess something to commemorate the trip would be kinda cool." The woman comes even closer, and starts touching my right arm, inspecting the tattoo I have.
"Pin-up girl? Am I right?" she asks, stroking over the figure, however not breaking eye contact with me.
"Umm – oh yeah, got that years ago, I'm looking for something a little more sentimental this time around." I say, stepping back to create some distance.
"Sentimental? Let me guess – parent? Sibling? In memory of someone?" I shake my head at each, she's clearly not noticed the ring on my finger.
"It would be for the two most important people in my life, my wife and my daughter." I say with a smile, to say she looks shocked would be an understatement.
"Wife and daughter? Oh – okay, you just don't look the type, sorry."
"No worries, I get that a lot." Just then, the door opens and in walks Bridget, carrying a wide awake Olivia.
"Hi Franky, you seen any design you like then?" she asks as I turn and walk towards my two loves.
"Not yet, I might make an appointment so I can have a proper think." I take Olivia from her and tickle her belly, making her giggle.
"Well actually – I was thinking we should get matching ones, obviously I'd put mine somewhere a bit discreet, but I think it would be really romantic." My eyes go wide in surprise.
"Seriously? I didn't think you ever wanted any." I say, not wanting her to feel any pressure.
"No I'm sure – I was thinking even just your name, or initials somewhere, that way you're always with me."
"Oh babe, that's so sweet."
"We have a slot available tomorrow afternoon if you both can manage then?" the tattooist adds.
"That's fine for me – you alright with that Gidge?"
"Sounds perfect, oh I'm so excited!"
"Okay babe calm down, what are we doing then? Matching designs or initials? What would you prefer?" I ask.
"I'm not bothered Franky; I just want a tattoo with you – that's all."
"Well, why don't you let me draw us a design? Then we can get them the same so they match." I say kissing her cheek.
"Wonderful idea! We can stay in the hotel tonight and you can do it then." Her smile could not get any wider right now.
"Of course I can – hey, do you have some paper and pencils so I can sketch some design ideas? And if we can go ahead and book that slot for tomorrow that would be great.2 I direct this to the tattoo artist, who hands me the supplies I'll need and sets us up for tomorrow.
"See you both tomorrow then." We leave the parlour so I can get started on the design.
Later that night, I'm busy sketching out a few different designs for our tattoos – I'm not a very artsy person, but it seems more special to do it this way.
"That's Olivia asleep babe, you almost done?" Bridget asks, joining me in bed.
"Yeah I've done a few but the one I'm working on now is the final draft, I think you'll like it." I lean over and kiss her quickly before getting back to it.
"Do I get to see it?" she enquires with a slight pout.
"Hmm, I'm not sure…nah okay I will show you, since it's going to be on your body forever. Where are you going to put it?"
"I actually don't know, I said somewhere discreet, but my wife is designing it after all – would be a shame not to show it off."
"Just get it wherever you want, make sure you'll be comfortable with it first though, after all it is permanent!"
"Yes I know; I'm thinking my wrist actually – I think a tattoo would look good there." I pick up her wrist, inspect the area, then put my lips to it, giving little kisses all over it." Bridget squirms around.
"That's tickly Franky!" she squeals, retrieving her wrist from the onslaught of kisses.
"You ready to see the design baby?" she eagerly nods her head and comes even closer to me.
"Okay, well as you know I'm not an artist, so I kept it quite simple. I've drawn the infinity sign – and on my tattoo, I'll have your name written in it, and on yours you'll have my name. what do you think?" I ask, nervous to see how she likes them.
"They're perfect Franky! I like the simplicity of them, but the meaning says it all." She leans over and kisses me fully on the lips.
"I love you – to infinity baby." I whisper between kisses.
"I love you – to infinity and back!" she says and I just give her a look.
"Not possible! Infinity is never ending; you can't come back if you never finish getting there." I say smugly.
"Oh shut up – don't ruin the moment!"
The next night, after spending the afternoon getting our couple tattoos, we are out for dinner at The Grove in West Hollywood, Olivia in tow.
"This food is really great, but far too much! I'm totally not going to be able to move now!" I say as Bridget just laughs.
"Well they did say that dish was best for at least two people sharing, can't believe you finished it on your own." I rub my stomach, feeling how bloated I am.
"Gidge I literally am so full, remind me to never eat as much again." She leans over and kisses me – then Olivia lets out a little cry.
"Oh Olivia – you jealous your mummy is giving me all the attention, huh?" I move to pick Olivia up out of her stroller and give her some kisses before passing her to my wife.
"Franky we should probably head anyway, Sam and Al are meeting us tomorrow at 10m for breakfast – we don't want Olivia overtired and sleeping the whole time."
"You're right – let's head back to the hotel then." We pay for our food the leave the restaurant, starting the short walk back to our hotel.
The next morning, we surprisingly oversleep, so it's a rush to make it to the agreed restaurant for 10am, somehow we just make it in no more.
"Bridget! Over here!" I hear a voice call to my wife as we step inside, we look around for a few seconds then spot Sam walking towards us. She lunges towards my wife and envelopes her in a huge hug.
"I've missed you Bridget! You look fantastic!" she says, now taking a step back and greeting me with a hug, being careful because Olivia is on my chest.
"Hi Franky, nice to see you again – oh wow this must be Olivia!" she squeals in excitement as we begin to walk to the table.
"Sam – calm down. It's nice to see you again Bridget, Franky." Al says as we reach the table she is saving for us.
"Hi girls, I can't believe it's been two years! You both look really well, how has LA life been?" Bridget asks.
"Thanks, we are – well Ally is from her originally as you know, but I love it – best move I've ever made." Sam says. I start to un-attach Olivia from her carrier, Sam and Al watching intently to get a first glimpse of her.
"She's beautiful" it's like looking at a mini Franky!" Sam announces and I can't help but laugh.
"She's got my attitude too." I say with a smirk; they both just groan.
"Oh god, is it too late to change our minds about the whole babysitting thing?" Al asks with a laugh.
"Hey – I'm not that bad, well not always." I laugh too.
"Oh my God!" Sam suddenly shrieks, making all of us jump in surprise, then look at her with raised eyebrows.
"You got a tattoo! Bridget no way! You're getting to be such a rebel!" Sam says, pointing at my wife's wrist.
"Oh yes, we got them yesterday – Franky got it on her wrist too – so we match in location as well."
"Aww! You guys are so relationship goals! Sam we should totally do that."
"Relationship goals – the hell does that mean?" I ask, confused.
"It means people should aim to be like you guys – when it comes to their relationship – simple really." Sam replies.
"Got ya, thanks – I guess."
The rest of breakfast goes well, it's nice to catch up with the girls, especially for Bridget – her and Sam have always been close.
On Saturday evening we drop Olivia off at Sam and Al's apartment, turn out they watch Al's nephew all the time so have baby stuff already at their place.
"So, is your mind at ease now Gidge? Clearly not their first rodeo!" we walk hand-in-hand into the venue for the concert, heading towards our seats.
"Yes, I know – I just forget they are grown women and not little kids sometimes – can you believe they've been together longer than we have? Sam's 28, Al's 27 and they've been together six years, just shows you really, and they're not even from the same continent!"
"I know babe – but as they say, at the end of the day – love wins."