Firebird590, now I come to think about it, you're right, it is rather Twiligh Zone-ish of Neil admitting to his feelings so openly, but I think it's just that he's finally discovered where his priorities really lie, and it isn't just work that shapes a person, it's family and love too - and he's found both of those in Jake and Grace. Neil is finally taking that step out into the rest of the world and liking what he's found.
Thank you all for your reviews. I know this story may be a little out of character, Neil being all open, and Grace speaking about him as she has to Jack, but the plot wouldn't let me go, and so here it is. Also, I'm glad the story is making sense, these are quite possible the shortest chapters I've ever written!
C
8.
"She's everything to me. Guv, I know I don't have the best track record with women, but Grace – Grace is different. Grace is - she's strong, she cares about us, she's so quick and incredibly intelligent. She can make me laugh and make my son happy. She – Guv, she makes me feel safe, and she makes me feel like I can face the world and come out smiling. And apart from all of that, she's incredibly beautiful, she has the most amazing eyes and every single time she smiles I want to ki – "he tailed off, a faint blush finding its way across his face as he realised what he'd been about to admit, coming face to face with a smirking Jack Meadows.
"You love her that much." This time it was a statement rather than a question, and Neil nodded in reply.
"I love her that much'" he said.
"And she feels the same way about you?" Jack asked, already knowing the answer.
"I – "Neil hesitated, and Jack's face registered the surprise he felt. "We haven't really talked about it that much. I know how I feel, and I know she cares about us, but we – well, we haven't talked – "
"And you're still ready to give everything up for her?" Jack asked, managing to hide the surprise this time.
"In a heartbeat. Whatever happens, wherever we end up, I want her to be happy Guv, I need her to be happy. She's brought my son back to life, and she's done the same for me. I want her, and if that means me leaving or retiring, or whatever, so we can explore what we have, then that's what's going to happen." Neil said, certainty running though his words.
Jack didn't respond, his gaze caught by something behind Neil. Hanging his head, Neil knew exactly what he was looking at, and turned, coming face to face with Grace.
"Hey" he said softly, moving over to her. "You heard that, didn't you?"
"Every word," she replied, just as quietly.
Taking her hands in his, Neil stepped closer. "I meant it Grace. Every word. I love you. I love you and I want to be with you and I want you to be with me and Jake. I want to explore what we have, and if I have to leave Sun Hill, then that's what's going to happen. "
