During the next few weeks the secret couple enjoyed the little free time they could have together.

Assumpta was beginning to enjoy having Peter running around after her as she got used the idea of becoming a mother. She also got used to the idea that Leo's threat that he would be back was an empty one.

They had decided that they would keep mum about the baby until after Assumpta had her 12 week scan and Peter had cleared everything with Father Mac. They joked that he must know about them and that's why he was staying away for as long as possible. Peter never admitted it to Assumpta but he always sensed Father Frank MacAnally could see right through him, and it wouldn't surprise him if that were the truth.

"I am afraid I am going to have to kick you out," Assumpta smirked as she peered into the spare bedroom where Peter was changing.

Despite the fact she was illegitimately pregnant with the curate's child, they had decided that it would perhaps add less insult to injury if they refrained from sleeping together until all this was out in the open. So when Assumpta called him late last night because she was feeling lonely, they talked until the dawn broke out before parting ways in a bid to try and get a bit of shut eye.

They still did most things that lovers did however, walking hand in hand and taking picnics (far away from Ballyk) as well as making plans those all important plans for their future.

"That's fine; I ought to get up to St Joseph's anyway, make sure everything is in order with it finally being D-Day."

"Oh yes, of course. With everything I had forgotten Father Mac was back today."

"Don't worry about it, that's my problem," he said pulling his shirt over his head.

"Peter, it is our problem, you said as much yourself, we are in this together, remember?"

"I know. I just don't want all this worry to upset the baby." He admitted, taking her into his arms.

"Peter, the baby is fine, now good luck, it will be fine. It will all be over before we know it."

"I know," he smiled. "And then it is the first day of the rest of our lives."

"Exactly," she beamed, kissing him on the cheek.

"God I love you, Assumpta."

"I am very glad to hear it, but you better save it for later, go on get gone, Peter."

He kissed her on the mouth and left the room. "What are your plans for today?" He called turning around to face the love of his life once more.

"Oh the usual, though I think I'll go the bank this later to drop off last night's surprisingly large takings."

"Do you want me to do that when I'm done?"

"No I am fine, I am not an invalid. Anyway, you need to concentrate on what you are going to say to MacAnally."

"Yes boss," Peter saluted.

"Peter?" She called him back.

"Yes?"

"I love you too," her smile could have lit the whole of Ballykissangel, for once she was bursting with happiness. She ought to tell him more often that she made him incredibly happy; still there would be plenty of time for that.

"I know, see you later." He replied, blowing her a kiss.