It didn't take Kimber long to find out where Sheamus' parents lived. Just a quick conversation with some of the WWE publicists had taken care of that.
Then it was on to the airport to try and get a flight. Unfortunately that had taken a little longer. But she had managed to fly out four and a half hours later.
Her thoughts began to race as she stared out the window.
Over and over again she tried to work out what she was going to say.
Hi. . .I'm sorry. I was an idiot. . .I love you. I've been in love with you for so long now, she closed her eyes and sighed.
Maybe she should lead with the 'I'm an idiot' line before going right into the 'I love you' part.
She opened her eyes, once again looking out over the UK scenery below.
She only hoped he would listen to what she had to say. If she could just get him to do that, she knew that the battle was half won.
And if he didn't do anymore than that. . .
Her heart lurched at the thought. It he didn't do anymore than that then she knew she'd never forgive herself.
The truth was, she had never been so afraid in her life. She was putting everything on the line.
But she knew that he was worth the risk. He was worth everything.
If only she could get him to listen to her.
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About two hours later Kimber landed in Dublin. From there it was by bus to the town a few miles from where Sheamus' family lived. After that, it was just a rental car trip away.
And then she'd see him.
She began to fidget in her bus seat, eyes sweeping over the rushing Irish countryside.
She only hoped he'd be happy to see her.
The reporter could picture their reunion happening one of two ways.
He'd open the door and see her standing there. Maybe say her name with that sinful accent of his that she loved.
He would start to grin, showing that adorable dimple. He would pick her up in his arms and kiss her until she was breathless and aching for more.
She would tell him how sorry she was, how much she loved him. He would tell her he loved her, too, and then. . .
Kimber opened her eyes and sighed, a soft smile coming to her lips. That would be perfect.
Slowly she began to frown as she thought of the other way the reunion could go.
He would open the door, see her standing there. Then, without a word, he'd close the door in her face and shut her out of his life forever
She let out a groan of frustration. She couldn't think that way. It'd only drive her crazy.
She reached the town a short time later and made her way to the rental car booth. To her absolute surprise, though, there were no rentals to be had.
"You're kidding." Kimber was completely stunned.
"Ah'm sorry, miss." the lady at the desk told her with a sympathetic smile, "But all of our cars have been taken. If you'd like to come back tomorrow, there should be one for you."
The reporter took a step back and ran a hand through her hair. What was she going to do? She didn't want to wait until tomorrow to see him.
She looked down at her watch and sighed, taking note of the time. She had hoped to get there by dark but it looked like that wasn't going to be the case. She'd have no choice but to wait till tomorrow.
She turned back to the woman and questioned, "Can you tell me where the nearest hotel is located?"
"Where are you headed, lass?"
Kimber blinked and turned, swallowing. There was a man standing behind her, tall and thick. He appeared to be in his late fifties or early sixties. A faded brown soft cap covered his bushy graying brown hair. He also has a matching bushy mustache and beard. His brown eyes were fixed on her, the expression a little intense.
"I, um," she didn't want to be rude, but she was in a strange place and she didn't know this man from Adam, "I just needed a rental car to get to my friend's place outside of town. Well, that is, his parents' place."
"And who are they?" the older man questioned as he continued to scrutinize her.
"The O'Shaunessy's." Kimber hedged, "Mr. Mark O'Shaunessy."
Suddenly the man's face brightened and his features remarkably went from fearsome to that of a teddy bear's.
"Well why didn' you say so, lass?" he gave a boisterous laugh, "Ah know Mark quite well. Are you a friend of one of the girls?"
Before she could answer he took her arm and led her outside, "Come on, come on, let's get you on the road. Ah won' be able to take you all the way, unfortunately, but Ah can get you partly there. If you don' mind doin' a bit of walkin'."
Kimber looked down at the feet, thankful that she had opted to wear boots.
"No." she told him, "I don't mind. And thank you so much. I hope I'm not taking you too far out of your way."
"Think nothin' of it, girl." the old man waved her off, "A friend of the O'Shaunessy's is a friend of mine."
Kimber began to smile as they slipped into his truck. He started it up and soon they were heading off down the road.
"I'm Jack Brennan." he told her as he gave her hand a firm shake.
"Kimber Gentry." Kimber grinned in response.
"So, ya never did say." the man stated as he looked to the road, "How do ya know the O'Shaunessy's? Are you a friend of the girls?"
"No." Kimber shook her head, "I'm friends with their son."
"Sheamus!" Jack crowed and Kimber couldn't help but giggle. How could she have thought this sweet man was fearsome when she first met him?
"Ornery big'un." he told her with an arched bushy eyebrow.
"He is quite a character." Kimber agreed.
The older man studied her for a few moments before beginning to grin knowingly.
"Are ya his moth?" he asked with a smirk, "His girlfriend?"
The reporter's eyes widened at that. She felt a blush warm her cheeks and she glanced down at her clasped hands.
"No." she admitted softly, "I'm. . .I'm just a friend."
Jack laughed at that, "Yer sweet on 'im. Ah can tell."
Kimber looked up at him in surprise. She slowly began to smile and shrugged, self-conscious.
"I am." she confessed, "A little, yes."
"'A little'." the older man repeated with a snort. Yeah, and he was a little green man from Mars.
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It was almost nightfall when they reached the crossroads. As Jack pulled over to the side he gave Kimber a wide grin.
"You take care of yerself, lass." he told her with affection, "And you give that big ornery fella a right kiss when you see him."
Kimber laughed and climbed out of the truck, "I'll think about it. And thank you again, Jack. I really appreciate it."
"Slan." he gave her a wave and watched her walk for a few seconds before heading off down the road.
Kimber waved back before turning and continuing on. She figured she'd reach the O'Shaunessy's place in about ten or fifteen minutes.
The more steps she took the more her heart began to pound. She just prayed that everything worked out okay.
She could just imagine what he would think when he saw here there.
I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd drop in and say 'hi', she thought with a chuckle, Sure. He'll buy that.
She was about halfway there when a truck suddenly came tearing off down the road. Kimber took a step back, mindful of it. The last thing she needed was to get hit.
As it raced along, though, it splashing through a massive mud puddle.
She let out a shriek as muddy water splashed her from head-to-toe. Her arms came out at her sides, her mouth opened in shock as she watched the vehicle continue on without even bothering to stop.
"Are you kidding me?!" she yelled in shock.
She looked down at herself in alarm. Her beige camel jacket, her green blouse, her jeans, everything was coated in mud.
She closed her eyes and ran a hand over her face in disbelief. Suddenly she felt something sticky and wet on her palm and she quickly pulled her hand away. Sure enough, it was covered in mud.
"Oh my God." she breathed, her eyes darting around wildly.
What was she going to do? She hadn't thought to bring a change of clothes, the truth being that seeing Sheamus had been the only thing on her mind.
She couldn't very well go to his parents' house looking like Swamp Thing! The humiliation alone would kill her.
She looked around, contemplating what to do next. But what could she do? She was out there, in the middle of nowhere. His parents' house was the closest place she could go.
She began to rub her palms against her pants before laughing at the absurdity of doing so. Like it would matter?
Well, never let it be said that she didn't strive to go after what she wanted.
Even if, right now, she looked like the Bog Woman.
Chin held high and determination in place, she continued on up the road.
About fifteen minutes later she could see a picturesque, stone, country house. Her pace began to slow to a stop, though, when she spied the many vehicles in the drive and parked on the side of the road. They were having a party!
Kimber closed her eyes and sighed, taking a page out of the Miz's playbook, "Really?"
She opened her eyes, once again hesitant. She had to do this, she knew. There really was no other choice.
Mentally building up her courage, she continued on until she reached the front door.
She reached out to knock when she paused, hand hovering over the wooden surface.
Come on, you can do this, she told herself, Just knock all ready. It's not like you have a choice, anyway.
Throwing caution to the wind, she rapped three times on the door.
She took a step back and waited anxiously. Would he answer the door? Oh, she could just imagine what he'd think when he saw her.
Her heart began to pound and her breathing grew a little heavier. She closed her eyes for a moment and willed herself to get control.
It wasn't long until she heard movements from inside the house. Another couple of seconds passed and soon the door was opened.
It wasn't Sheamus who greeted her, though. Instead an old woman, who appeared to be in her seventies, and as skinny as a rail, looked her over with sharp blue eyes hidden behind wire framed glasses.
Kimber offered a small smile, feeling ridiculous.
The woman, who's snow white hair was pulled back into a bun and wearing a cheerful, red cardigan and long skirt, clucked her tongue, "Ah didn' think it was rainin'."
"No, ma'am." Kimber was quick to reply, "I, um, had an accident. I, uh. . .well, I came here to see Sheamus.
"But I see you're having a party so I'll just go." the reporter turned and started to leave.
"You'll do no such thing." the old woman stated as she took one of Kimber's wrist in a surprisingly firm grip and practically dragged the young woman inside, "Yer here to see me grandson. So come right in and see him. He's in the back."
Kimber had little choice but to follow as the old woman led her through the charming living room, down a short hall, through a lovely kitchen and towards the backdoor.
As she looked ahead her eyes widened. The backyard was filled with dozens of people. They were either standing or sitting, eating, talking and laughing. It looked like a grand time was being had and she suddenly felt extremely out of place.
Sheamus' grandmother came barreling out into the backyard, dragging Kimber behind her, "Sheamus, darlin', Ah think Ah have somethin' here that belongs to ya."
All eyes fell on her and at that moment Kimber wished the mud puddle had actually been quicksand.
Sheamus came forward at that moment, staring at her in disbelief.
Kimber swallowed. This was definitely not how she imagined their reunion going.
"Hi." she murmured, offering a weak half-smile.
"Hi." he looked her over in confusion before finally meeting her eyes. Why was she covered in mud?!
"I got splashed." she replied lamely, not sure what else to say.
His lips quirked at that and it was all he could do not to grin. Well at least she knew how to make an entrance, he'd give her that.
Clearing his throat, he nodded with as much serious as he could muster, which wasn't much, "Ah can see that."
"Sheamus Michael O'Shaunessy." an older woman in her fifties with strawberry blonde curls and bright blue eyes, came changing forward, "What's wrong wit' ya. Get this poor thing dried off and into some clean clothes this minute."
Sheamus face reddened as he looked down at the woman, who was only about as tall as Kimber, herself, "Ah was just gettin' ready to do that, Ma."
Kimber blinked. His mother. . .Oh, dear, she could only guess what the poor woman must be thinking.
"Mrs. O'Shaunessy." the reporter cleared her throat and instantly slipped into gracious guest mode, "I'm Kimber Gentry. I'm terribly sorry for dropping in on you like this. If I had know you were having a party-"
"Think nothing of it, dearie." the older woman gave her a kind smile, "It's just the family. And more the merrier, Ah say."
A twinkle came to her eye as she looked back and forth between her son and the girl he obviously loved, "And it's Bridget, please."
"Bridget." Kimber sighed, instantly feeling at ease.
"Now lets see about getting you cleaned up." Bridget stated.
"Ah'll help." a young woman, a little younger than Kimber, came forward.
She smiled brightly at the reporter, blue-green eyes warm and friendly. She flipped her shoulder-length, straight, red hair over her shoulder and took her hand.
"Ah'm Siobhan, Sheamus' sister." the girl giggled, "Well, one of. Come wit' me, we'll get you taken care of."
Kimber smiled at her gratefully and allowed her to lead her back into the house. Sheamus followed after, still astonished. He couldn't believe that she was actually there.
"You're parents' home is beautiful." Kimber told Siobhan, her eyes darting back to the wrestler behind her.
"Thank you." the Celtic Warrior murmured, his eyes searching her face.
Kimber turned back around to find his sister smiling kindly at her. She returned the gesture, thankful.
They reached the second floor, Siobhan taking her over to a closed door.
"Here's the bathroom." she stated, opening the door for the reporter to step inside, "Ah'll just grab a few of my clothes-Ah think we're about the same size. Just a minute and Ah'll be back in a flash."
She hurried down the hall, disappearing into one of the bedroom. Kimber paused and glanced up at Sheamus, who was leaning back against the wall opposite her, arms crossed over his impressive chest. He was studying her and Kimber found herself glancing down at her hands, which were fidgeting in front of her.
"Why are you here, lass?" he asked quietly.
Kimber's eyes shot up and she felt her heart drop. He didn't sound angry to see her. But he didn't appear all that happy, either. If anything, he just seemed thoughtful. She didn't know how to take that.
"I wanted to talk to you after the show." she explained, forcing herself to stop squirming, "But you had already left."
"Ya couldn't talk to me when Ah got back?" he asked, brows knit.
He wanted to believe that she was there because she loved him, because she missed him. But the thing was, he wasn't sure. He didn't know where he stood with her anymore.
Loved him? He sighed bitterly at that, The woman had never even said as much to him before. Why would he think, after everything that had happened, that she could love him now.
Kimber blinked, crestfallen. He didn't want her there.
He didn't want her.
"Of course." she murmured, trying to appear nonchalant, "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking. I'll just. . .I'll go."
She turned and started to go for the stairs when his hand came out and caught her arm. She turned to see him looking down at her, his features softening.
"Yer here." he stated as he scanned her muddy appearance, a hint of a smirk tugging at his lips, "And it looks like you went through hell to get here. You should stay and meet me relations."
He added with a mischievous glint in his eyes, "Mud pie."
Kimber's eyes widened and her face reddened. She began to grin. She couldn't believe he remembered that embarrassing story!
"Sheamus, would ya leave the poor girl alone." Siobhan chastised her big brother as she emerged from her bedroom, a pile of clothes in her arms.
She walked past them and sat them on the sink before coming back into the hall.
"Now shoo." she told him, giving him a shove that did little to move him, "Let Kember get cleaned up."
She turned to the reporter and quipped, "You'll have to excuse my brother's manners. But ya know how men are."
"Oi." Sheamus straightened and pointed at his sister, "Better watch yerself, lass. Ah've had about enough out of you."
He tried to appear intimidating but Kimber could see the merriment in his eyes. It was obvious that Siobhan was the apple of his eye, much like she was with her own big brother.
"Thank you for the clothes, Siobhan." she told the other woman, "I'll be down as soon as possible."
"Take yer time." the redheaded woman waved her away before grabbing her brother and all but yanking him down the stairs.
Kimber watched after them for a few moments before slipping into the bathroom to shower and change.
"She's pretty." Siobhan stated as they reached the ground floor, "And nice, too."
"She is." Sheamus agreed quietly.
His sister drew to a stop and smacked him across the chest. Sheamus flinched, rubbing the area.
"Oh, don' pretend like that hurt." his sister scoffed, "And what's wrong wit' ya? The girl came all this way, bravin' goodness knows what, to see ya. And how do you treat her?"
Sheamus took a step back, eyes going the ground. He felt his face begin the redden and he hated it.
"Ah don' know why she's here." he confessed quietly as he finally looked at his sibling, "The whole time she was gone Ah only got one phone call from her, before Christmas."
"Didn' you say her Da was ill?" Siobhan was exasperated, "What did ya expect the girl to do? Call you everyday for hours at a time."
"No." Sheamus grumbled, growing annoyed, "But Ah thought she'd at least call me more than once."
"Did you call her?" his sister questioned and the Irishman turned away, guilty.
"Uh-huh." Siobhan arched an eyebrow, "And why not, brother dear?"
He turned back to her and suddenly he looked like he was twelve-years-old again and had to tell her that their dog had died, "Ah didn' think she wanted to hear from me."
His sister sighed, growing serious. She reached out and gave him a hug. It was true what they said: The bigger they were, the bigger their hearts were. And her brother's heart was about as big as all of Ireland.
They stepped back outside and instantly their parents bombarded them.
"Ah like her." Bridget jumped right in, "And, my, she's even prettier than on the telly. Well, from what Ah could see under all that mud."
"Now, Bridget, let the boy be." Mark O'Shaunessy piped up as he turned and gently led his nosy wife away.
He peered over his shoulder and gave his son a wink, silently letting him know that he, too, seemed to like Kimber.
Sheamus let out a long breath, casting his eyes to the heavens. He loved his parents dearly. He did. But sometimes they could be so. . .
"So that's her, huh?"
He blinked and turned around, his eyes landing on a pretty young woman with shoulder-length, straight blonde hair and sly blue eyes.
He let out a sigh, preparing himself, "That's her, Deidre."
The blonde looked towards the closed door with narrowed eyes, "Hmm, not much to her, Ah'd say."
"Well nobody asked you, sister dear." Siobhan muttered as she approached.
Deidre turned narrowed eyes to her sister, "And what's wit' you, suddenly her best friend? Are you forgettin' what she did to our brother? He told her he loved her and she just walked away from him."
"Deidre, enough." Sheamus growled, "You don' know the whole story. Besides, this is my business. So stay out of it."
"Here she comes." Siobhan announced as a newly cleaned up Kimber stepped back outside.
"Behave yerself." Sheamus warned the blonde, "Ah mean, Dei."
"Fine." Deidre flashed an obviously fake smile, "Ah'll play nice wit' the lass."
Siobhan rolled her eyes but suddenly beamed as Kimber approached, "Hi! Yer lookin' much better."
"I feel much better." Kimber stated with a gentle laugh.
She motioned to the long sleeved t-shirt and jeans she was wearing and repeated, "Thank you again, Siobhan. I really appreciate the clothes."
Her eyes flittered to Deidre and she offered a warm smile, extending her hand, "Hello, I'm Kimber."
"Ah know." the blonde murmured, ice tinting her words.
"Deirdre." Sheamus warned.
Kimber swallowed, looking between the wrestler and the blonde nervously.
Deirdre rolled her eyes and shook the reporter's hand, "Deidre. Sheamus' other sister."
"You have to excuse my sister." Siobhan spoke up, offering her sibling a glare, "She's a bit of a cold one."
"She's just protective of her big brother." Kimber stated, eyes still on the blonde, "As a younger sister to an older brother, myself, I can understand."
Deidre blinked, clearly not expecting that type of response.
She looked down at the ground for a moment before looking back at the brunette, "So you can understand my-"
"Bitchiness." Siobhan couldn't help but quip.
Deidre gave her sister a narrowed look before conceding, "Yes, that."
"I understand." Kimber nodded, "And I hope I can change your mind about me."
"Ya don' need to worry about that." Sheamus spoke up, "You didn' do anythin' wrong."
Kimber opened mouth, meaning to tell him that she had, but she was cut off as Sheamus' grandmother came up with a plate of food.
"You must be starvin'." the old woman said, forcing the plate into her hands, "Eat, darlin'. Can' have anyone around here goin' hungry."
"Better do as she says." Sheamus replied, looking down at the old woman lovingly, "You don' want to be on the receivin' end of one of her punishments."
All three siblings cringed at that and Kimber found herself grinning. She picked up her fork and began to eat. Her eyes lit up as she tasted the delicious coddle.
"That's a good girl." Granny O'Shaunessy nodded with approval, "And don' forget to get seconds. Yer entirely too thin."
Sheamus snorted as Kimber began to blush.
"Come sit down, Kember." Siobhan took the reporter by the elbow and led her over to a small table and set of chairs.
They sat down and Kimber was surprised when Deidre decided to join them. She took it as a good sign, though, and her heart lifted a bit.
Bridget also found her way to the table and the reporter grew a bit nervous again at having been surrounded by the O'Shaunessy women.
Sheamus watched after her, itching to join her. Or save her. He wasn't sure which. He started to make his way when his father stopped him, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"Let them be, son." Mark stated with a grin, "They're not gonna hurt her."
"Ah trust Ma and Siobhan." Sheamus groaned, "But Deidre-"
"Is just tryin' to look out for her big brother." Mark finished with a kind smile, "And you know you'd to the same for her."
Sheamus sighed and relented, knowing he was right. He just hoped his baby sister didn't do anything to upset the woman he loved.
"So why did you come here tonight?" Deidre got right to the point.
Kimber blinked, almost choking on her meal. She swallowed with difficulty, trying to find the right words.
"I wanted to see Sheamus-" she began.
"Clearly." Deidre interrupted with a smirk.
"Deidre Aileen-" Bridget began and the blonde quickly backed off.
"Sorry." she muttered with a sigh before finally turning back to the reporter, "Kember, Ah apologize."
"It's okay." Kimber glanced down at her plate of food, "I understand. I, um. . .I came here because I needed to talk to him. To apologize to him for thinking that-"
"That he'd ride that hoor, Natalya," Siobhan couldn't help but quip.
Bridget looked at her daughter in shock. She was even too stunned to scold her.
Siobhan noticed her mother's expression and she quickly slapped her hand over her mouth, her eyes wide.
"Sorry, Ma." she mumbled from behind her hand.
Bridget gave her a narrowed look before turning back to Kimber, motioning for her to go on.
"I wanted to apologize for thinking that they slept together." the reporter finished.
Bridget reached out and took her hand, offering a kind smile, "From what Sheamus told me, Ah probably would have reacted the same way. Can' fault you for reactin' the way you did."
"That's really very kind of you." Kimber shook her head, glancing down at her plate for a moment, "But he was right. I should have had more faith in him than that."
"Well you know what Ah think-" Deidre began but Siobhan cut her off.
"Nobody cares." the redhead sighed.
Deidre glared at her but went on, "As Ah was sayin'. Ah think it took a lot of guts to come here, especially lookin' like you did, just to admit you were wrong."
Kimber offered her a shy smile and the blonde went on, "That's not to say Ah completely forgive ya for breakin' my brother's heart, mind. But if Sheamus is willin' to forgive you, Ah don' see why Ah can' either."
"That's very big of you." the reporter stated, "I really appreciate that."
Deidre nodded as Mark approached the table. Kimber finally got a chance to really look at him.
He was almost as tall as Sheamus, and definitely just as built. His hair was red mixed with gray and short. He had blue-green eyes that looked like they were always smiling. She could see where the wrestler got his good looks from.
"Now Ah hope you ladies are behavin' yerselves." Mark sent a warning glance around the table, but did so with a smile.
"Better than yer brother." Bridget nodded to something behind him with a smirk.
Mark turned and began to groan, "Never fails. Every time he gets a few pints in him he ends up actin' like a jackarse."
Sheamus was standing a few feet away, unable to keep from laughing as he watched his uncle Mick singing and dancing a jig. By his slurred speech and stumbling movements it was clear the man was bolloxed.
Mick stopped mid singing and turned, blurry eyes landing on his nephew.
"Sheamus Michael!" he crowed as he staggered over to his nephew, "My boy! Dance with yer old uncle!"
He slipped an arm around the younger man, pulling him close for a one armed hug as he once again began to sing:
"As I was a-goin' over Gilgarra Mountain
I spied Colonel Farrell, and his money he was countin'.
First I drew my pistols and then I drew my rapier,
Sayin' "Stand and deliver, for I am your bold receiver."
Musha ringum duram da,
Whack fol the daddy-o,
There's whiskey in the jar."
Sheamus patted his uncle on the back good-naturedly, an embarrassed grin on his lips. He looked over his uncle's shoulder and caught Kimber's eye. The reporter regarded the scene with a bright smile, completely enjoying it. Sheamus chuckled, his eyes softening as they looked at her.
Their smiles began to fade, a deep gaze passing between them.
.
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The night finally wound down, Sheamus' family bidding goodbye before leaving.
Kimber looked around, uncertain. She wasn't entirely sure what to do now.
"I need to see about getting back to town." she spoke up and turned, meaning to collect her phone from her purse.
"You'll do no such thing." Bridget spoke up first.
"Bridge is right." Mark agreed, "It's late. Best for you to stay the night. You can have Siobhan's room. She's stayin' the night with friends, anyway."
Kimber offered them a small smile before glancing hesitantly over at Sheamus. His expression was thoughtful and she took it as a good sign. At least he didn't look out-and-out unhappy over her staying there.
The Irishman nodded at last, "Yer here. You might as well stay. Come on, Ah'll show you were you can sleep."
"Thank you." Kimber told his parents, "I really appreciate it. And I'm sorry for crashing the party."
Bridget reached over and gave her a hug, "No apologizes necessary, dearie."
Her voice dropped, so that only Kimber could hear, as she added, "It's about time we met the girl who has our son so smitten. Now that we have, it's easy to see why."
Kimber pulled back and stared at her with wide eyes, surprised and touched by the compliment.
"Goodnight." she told them with a warm smile before turning and following Sheamus into the house.
Kimber stared at the back of his head as he led the way inside and upstairs. She wished he would say something. Look at her. Something.
It wasn't long until they reached the second floor and he made his way down the hall to his sister's room. He opened the door and finally turned back to her, stepping out of the way to let her enter.
Kimber offered him a thankful smile and stepped into the doorway.
"I really like your family." she told him, voice soft.
He began to grin at that, "We're quite a clan."
"It's obvious they really love one another." her smile grew, "And they're extremely proud of you, Sheamus Michael."
"Ooh, don'." Sheamus shivered, feinting a chill, "Every time Ah hear that, Ah think Ah've done somethin' wrong."
They laughed, the sounds coming easier. Soon their laughter died down, an awkward silence following.
"Well. . ." the Irishman's voice trailed off as he looked down at the ground and rubbed the back of his neck.
"I should. . ." Kimber pointed behind her, taking another step back.
"Yeah." Sheamus turned back to her and nodded.
They continued to look at one another for a few more, long moments.
He wanted to take her in his arms and tell her how happy he was to see her. He wanted to kiss her. He wanted to tell her he loved her.
"Oíche maith." he murmured at long last, voice low, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight." Kimber whispered.
It was hard to do, but she turned and made her way into the bedroom, softly closing the door after her.
Sheamus reached out, pressing his hand against the cool surface of the wood. His thumb stroked it, his eyes thoughtful.
One the other side of the door Kimber leaned back against it with a sigh. She glanced over her shoulder and stared at it before reaching out to brush her fingertips again the wood.
They stayed that way for a minute before each turned and went to their respective beds.
.
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.
.
Sheamus slowly opened his eyes but soon squinted to block out the sun coming through his window. He eventually sat up with a yawn, scratching his chest.
For a moment confusion overcame him as he looked around his room. Realization suddenly hit him and he began to smile softly.
Ireland. Home.
His gaze traveled to his closed bedroom door and the smile deepened.
Kimber.
He shook his head and chuckled, remembering back on her entrance the night before. The woman was determined, he'd give her that. He still couldn't believe it when he had turned around and there she was.
Needing to see her, he quickly climbed out of bed and got dressed.
He walked out into the hall and approached Siobhan's room. He propped his big shoulder against the doorframe and rapped on the door gently.
"Kember, are you up, lass?" he called out softly.
The door swung open under the weight of his knocking and the Irishman peered inside with a grin.
The smile slowly left his face and he discovered the room was empty.
His eyes narrowed in thought as he turned and made his way downstairs. Relief welled up in his chest as he approached the kitchen and heard the sounds of his parents and Kimber inside.
As he stepped into the doorway he saw his father sitting at the kitchen table while his mother and Kimber prepared breakfast. He couldn't help but smile as he watched his mother with the woman he loved. Watching on as they worked together, talking and laughing.
"Mornin'." he finally announced his presence, stepping into the room.
All three pairs of eyes turned to him and Kimber's smile deepened. Their gazes locked and held for a long moment.
"Good morning." she murmured.
"Some things never change." Bridget smiled at her son, "Sheamus always was a late riser."
"Last to the table." Mark agreed with a smirk, "First to finish eatin'."
Sheamus grinned at that, unabashedly proud of himself.
His eyes followed Kimber as she carried a plate over to him and sat it before him.
"Thank you." his tone was low and rich.
A blush came to the reporter's cheeks as she murmured, "You're welcome."
Bridget and Mark exchanged knowing looks as the blonde brought over two more plates and the four all sat down to breakfast.
As they ate Sheamus' parents regaled Kimber with childhood stories about the Celtic Warrior.
"So all of the O'Shaunessy clan were out in the backyard." Mark was saying, "And we were gettin' ready to sit down to eat. Well, Sheamus was no where to be found."
"So unlike the boy." Bridget added.
"So we were callin' him and callin' him." Mark interjected, "'Sheamus Michael come out here this minute!'"
"Imagine our surprise when down came Sheamus, complete in Deidre's pink bikini bottoms and nothing else." Bridget giggled, "Ah was never so embarrassed in my life!"
Sheamus cast his eyes to the table and chuckled, blushing with embarrassment.
"How old was he?" Kimber asked, completely tickled by the story.
"Oh, that was just last year." Mark quipped.
"Oi!" Sheamus looked over at his father with feint anger.
He turned to Kimber and clarified, "Ah was seven. And Ah only did it because Ah fancied myself as a bit of a Bret Hart fan."
He shrugged, adding with a grin, "Granny O'Shaunessy approved."
He leaned in closer to her and winked, "She's a bit of a Bret Hart fan, herself."
"For completely different reasons." Mark sighed dramatically, eyes to the ceiling.
Kimber laughed along with them and they continued on with breakfast.
As they finished up she rose and started to help with the dishes but Bridget wouldn't hear of it.
"Sheamus, take this pretty girl out and show her around the grounds." Mark suggested with a smile.
Sheamus turned to Kimber and nodded, "Feel like checking out me home?"
"I'd love to." the reporter murmured tenderly.
Sheamus beamed and collected their jackets, helping her put hers on. They stepped outside and began to walk away from the house.
"So what do ya think?" Mark asked his wife as the pair watched them leave.
Bridget sighed wistfully, "Ah hope they can work everythin' out."
She turned to her husband and winked, "Ah want some grandchildren to spoil."
Wrestler and reporter walked in relative silence for several minutes, each alone with their thoughts.
Kimber looked out over the beautiful, lush, green countryside. It truly was amazing there.
"It's wonderful here." she stated, offering a gentle smile, "So beautiful."
That earned a grin from the Irishman.
He stared out over the landscape and murmured, a hint of sadness in his voice, "It gets harder to leave, every time Ah come back."
Kimber regarded him sadly. She could see just how homesick he was.
"I'm sorry." she replied, sincere, "I know how important being back here is to you. I wish you could stay longer."
"Ah do, too, lass." he turned to her and shrugged, "It's a sacrifice, sure. But one Ah'm willin' to make to go after my dream."
She looked up at him, heart beginning to race. If he was willing to go after his dream, maybe she should be willing to after her own.
Kimber mentally built up her courage before stating, "I owe you an apology."
Her eye searched out the countryside as she sighed, "I was wrong. About everything. And you were right. I should have believed in you. Believed in us. I didn't and. . ."
She shrugged, turning back to him, "And I'm very sorry."
Sheamus felt his gut clench at her words. He knew just what it took for her to come there and say that and his love for her grew even more.
"Ah'm just glad the truth finally came out." he stated quietly, "And yer not the only one who should be apologizin'."
"But you didn't do anything wrong." Kimber gaped up at him.
"Ah don' blame you for doubtin' me. The situation looked bad." his eyes went to the ground as he added, "Ah was hurt and angry. Ah didn' handle it much better than you. And Ah'm sorry for that."
"I'm sorry you were hurt." Kimber ached over that.
"Ah'm sorry you were hurt, too." Sheamus murmured.
The pair found they could only stare at one another, at a loss. Though they had apologized, things still felt a little up in the air. They weren't exactly sure where they stood with one another anymore.
The reporter hurried on, feeling the need to make the situation better, "You know, it was actually a good thing. I think we needed time apart. It. . .It was good for us."
Sheamus heart sunk a little at that. Though he supposed she was right, they had needed time to themselves, it still hurt that she had admitted as much.
"Why don't we head back." he offered and started to head back to the house.
Kimber fell into step beside him and nodded, "Yeah, I really need to see about getting back to town. I need to get back with the others before we head to our next location."
"Ah'll take ya." the Irishman volunteered.
"Oh, Sheamus, no." Kimber turned to him, wide eyed and adamant, "Thank you, but no. No, you need to spend time with your family."
"Ah was gonna head back today anyway." the Celtic Warrior explained, offering a kind smile, "And it's all right. They're comin' to our next show."
"Are you sure?" the reporter continued to hedge.
Sheamus let out a sigh, growing a bit annoyed, "Kember, Ah said it was all right."
"Okay." the brunette murmured quietly, "If you insist."
"Ah do."
The pair stepped inside, the wrestler calling out, "Ma, Da, we're gonna be leavin' now!"
"So soon" Bridget frowned as she and Mark stepped back into the kitchen.
"Ah'm afraid so." Sheamus sighed, reluctant, "But Ah'll be seein' you at the show tomorrow."
"Ah know." Bridget reached over and wrapped her arms around her son's waist in a tight hug, "Ah just didn' realize you'd be leavin' so soon."
Sheamus didn't say anything, instead choosing to close his eyes and hold his mother close. It pained him to leave, especially since he hardly ever got to see his family anymore, but he knew it had to be done.
Eventually he pulled back, blinking away the sudden well of tears. He turned to his father and grinned as the older man stepped forward for a manly hug.
While they did that Bridget turned her attention to Kimber and beamed, "It was good to finally meet ya, Kember. Yer even more than Ah could have imagined."
Kimber reached out and hugged her, murmuring, "Thank you so much. For everything."
"You'll come back wit' him the next time he decides to visit?" the blonde asked as she pulled back.
The reporter found she could only offer a smile. The truth was, as much as she wanted to, she still didn't know where they stood.
Bridget patted her cheek and turned, giving Sheamus another big hug. As she did that Mark approached Kimber and took her hand, offering it a pat and a kiss on her cheek.
"Yer just lovely." he murmured as he pulled back, "Ah can see why the boy fancies you."
"Thank you." Kimber blushed, ducking her head for a moment.
Soon it was time to go. The Celtic Warrior collected his bags and the pair stepped outside and over to his rental. As he loaded up the car his parents came out and waved goodbye to them.
The pair waved back before climbing it. Sheamus started up the vehicle and soon they were heading off down the road.
A small silence followed them, neither one quite sure what to say now that they were truly alone.
"So you said they're coming to the show?" Kimber spoke up at long last, glancing at the Irishman.
Sheamus nodded, eyes on the road, "Ma, Da, Siobhan, Deidre and Granny."
He began to shutter, "Ah just hope Granny doesn' try to get involved like last time."
He looked over at her and grinned, "Last time we were here Ah was facin' Wade Barrett. He cheap shot me on the outside and Granny almost gave him a clothesline in retaliation."
Kimber threw back her head and laughed. She could just imagine the spirited older woman doing that.
"So was she the one who got you interested in wrestling?" she inquired and Sheamus nodded.
"She was such a fan." he grinned, glancing at her, "Still is."
"And I bet you're her favorite." Kimber murmured tenderly.
Sheamus shook his head and snickered, "Believe it or not, she's actually quite the fan of Punk's."
The reporter grinned at that. Figures.
An awkward silence soon followed, neither sure what to say.
"How about some music." Sheamus offered as he reached over and turned on the radio.
Rock music began to blare and he grinned, bobbing his head to the sound.
They drove on for hours, neither saying anything. The tension in the cab began to grow thicker with each mile.
Kimber glanced over at him for a moment before turning back to the window. She wished she could say something to him. Anything. But she just couldn't find the right words.
What she really wanted to tell him was that she loved him. But she didn't know if he would accept that. They still had some ways to go. And she wasn't even sure if he wanted her anymore.
The thought hurt, causing tears to spring up in her eyes. She blinked furiously at them, trying to make them go away before he noticed.
Sheamus continued to look straight ahead but his thoughts were going a million miles an hour.
He wanted to pull the car over, turn to her and tell her he loved her. He just didn't know if she wanted that.
She had said as much back at his parents' house. The time apart had been good for her. Maybe now, after she had had time to think, she had decided that she didn't want to be with him.
Suddenly the song ended and a new one came up.
"Standing here outside your door, not sure if you're home. Wondering if I'm a fool. Maybe I should go."
Kimber blinked, her head whipping around to look at the radio. Of all the songs to play at that moment. . .why did it have to be that one?
"Usually I'm fearless, but I've become undone. A clown without even a disguise. Now everyone will know that I've fallen, fallen. I've fallen in love. And I can't make sense of it."
Sheamus, too, glanced briefly at the radio. As he turned back to the road images of their dancing together flashed in his mind. He wanted to groan at the memory. It was just too cruel.
"Don't know how this happened. I can't say for sure." the singer went on, "But suddenly I'm incomplete. Sustaining on the hope."
Kimber looked down at her lap, swallowing. She took a few deep breaths, trying to built up her courage. She had to tell him how she felt. She had to get everything out.
"If you meet me face to face, you can hear my heart. You might feel this terrifying something rising up and you've fallen, fallen." the singer went on, "You've fallen in love. And you can't make sense of it. And you've fallen in love. And you can't make sense of it."
"Sheamus-" the reporter began but her eyes suddenly went to the hood of the car and widened.
Smoke began to billow out.
"Shite." the Irishman growled as he quickly pulled over to the side of the road.
He parked the car and cut the engine. He popped the hood and climbed out, cautiously approaching the front of the car.
"Sheamus, be careful." Kimber warned as she joined him outside.
"Ah know." he muttered as he came around to the hood.
He carefully used his sleeve to open the hood, taking a step back as smoke rose up. He waved it away, trying to see what was wrong.
He inspected it for a few moments, trying to locate the problem.
"Well?" Kimber questioned as she approached.
"Don' know." he muttered with narrowed eyes as he continued to search, "Could have just overheated. Could be a leaky hose. Could be the radiator."
"So what do we do now?" the reporter asked.
Sheamus let out a sigh and took a step back, rubbing the back of his neck, "We'll let it cool down a little and see if Ah can get her started again."
"If not?" Kimber arched an eyebrow.
Sheamus looked up, noting the lateness of the hour. It wasn't dark yet, but it wouldn't be too long before it was.
"We start walkin'." he stated, "We won't reach the city before nightfall, but me uncle's cottage isn' too far from here. We can stay the night there and try to give him a call in the mornin'."
"Why does your uncle have a cottage way out here?" the reporter asked.
Sheamus turned to her and shrugged, "Sometimes he likes to get away from Aunt Teresa."
"All the way out here?" Kimber was stunned.
Sheamus only grinned, "You didn' get a chance to really talk to my Aunt Teresa last night, did'cha, lass?"
She would have smiled at that if she weren't so nervous. She didn't like being out there, miles from the city.
She returned to the car and reached inside, pulling out her purse.
"What are ya doin'?" Sheamus inquired.
"Trying to call for help." Kimber murmured as she pulled out her cell phone and turned it on.
"Good luck." the Celtic Warrior chuckled, "You can' get service out here."
Kimber looked over at him in surprise, "You're kidding."
The Irishman shook his head, "Wish Ah was. We might have better luck at Mick's cottage."
The brunette looked down at her cell phone and sighed. Sure enough, no service was available. She tossed the phone back in her purse and crossed her arms, looking around.
Sheamus waited for the car to cool down before he slipped back behind the wheel and tried to start it up. Just as he suspected, it wouldn't turn over. He tried again, but still no luck.
He let out an irritated sigh and climbed back out, going around to the back to unlock the trunk.
"Now what?" Kimber asked as she walked after him.
"Now we walk." he stated as he unlocked the trunk and pulled out his bags. He slipped one over his shoulder and picked up the other one before coming back around and slamming the hood down.
Without a word he continued on up the road.
Kimber stared after him for a few moments before hurrying after.
They walked in silence, both looking ahead. Ever so often they would check behind them, just in case a car showed. But surprisingly, none came.
They had walked a few miles as it suddenly got dark. Sheamus' eyes narrowed and he looked up, figuring that they still had a while to go before nightfall.
He felt a growl emerge from the back of his throat as he took in the dark clouds that loomed over head. Great. Just what they needed.
No sooner had he thought it when the heavens opened up and rain poured down on them. Kimber let out a gasp as she got hit with a shower of water.
"Let's hurry." Sheamus stated over the storm as he quickened his pace, "Mick's cabin is only up the road. About thirty minutes."
Kimber hurried after, slipping on some mud. She managed to keep her balance, though, jogging to stay in step with him.
Sure enough they reached it almost thirty minutes later. Sheamus hurried to the front door and leaned down, lifting a good sized rock that sat beside the door. He pulled out a plastic bag which was hiding under the stone, key inside. He quickly yanked it out and opened the door, ushering Kimber inside.
The reporter came inside, shivering at the cold and rain. She looked around, beginning to search for a light switch.
"Where are the lights?" she asked as she scanned the walls.
Sheamus came in and set the bags down, closing and locking the door behind him, "There's no electricity. Mick likes to rough it when he's out here."
By memory alone, he managed to maneuver his way through the dark until he found the small table across the room. His hand trailed along until it encountered the box of matches. He grabbed one and struck it, using it to light the oil lamp sitting on the center of the table.
He blew out the match, tossing it into the table. Picking up the lamp he turned, noticing Kimber was still near the door. She was watching him with trepidation, equal parts uneasiness and curiosity in her green eyes.
"Looks like we're all alone." the Irishman stated in a low voice.
.
.
.
I think we all know what's coming next so I'm not even going to try and be coy. Finally, at long last, smut.
One thing, though. I don't know when the next part will be posted. I want to go for some time this week but I'm just not sure when.
My next day off is Wednesday (that's usually when I try to post an update) but I have a lot to do that day. So it might not be coming till some time later in the week. By next weekend at the latest.
Just stay tuned, I guess. :P