A/N: Hey guys, here's the next chapter.
It's the point in the story I wanted to get to but I'm a bit unsure about the chapter, especially the length and latter part.
It's a mix of Naomi and Jenna and I hope you like it.
Please PM or review to tell me what you think :)
Naomi
For what felt like the thousandth time since I'd browbeaten Emily into inviting me to her parents I realised I really hadn't thought this through. My first inkling was the awkward conversation she'd had to endure with her Mum. Although I could only hear Em's side it was obvious from her body language and increasingly terse replies that it was getting fractious. I sat uncomfortably as Emily explained that, actually she had mentioned me, but only as a friend. Of course I'd met Danny before and if her Mum remembered, I was the person who babysat him when they were at the business women of Bristol event. The call finished with Emily sighing exasperatedly and the line 'Mother, it's an effing barbecue, if you're that worried I'll bring some sausages and bloody burgers myself.'
Not that my own Mum had been much better. I'd told Emily and Danny to wait in the car, I wouldn't be long. Emily had scowled at me until I explained I was confident I could get in, shower, change and get out quickly, if she and especially the novelty that was Danny went in we'd be stuck there until next weekend at least. She'd smiled and grudgingly agreed to stay put. I dashed into the house and ignored the calls from the kitchen. I'd showered and after a quick flick through my wardrobe I'd selected an outfit I thought was casual enough to make me feel comfortable but formal enough to look like I'd made an effort. I exited almost as swiftly as I entered, slamming the door behind me with a cheery instruction not to wait up and that I might not be back at all.
That had resulted in a particularly cross text, pointing out how rude and inconsiderate I was. My placatory response had explained we were on a tight schedule and, after checking with Em, the offer to spend the following Sunday with her was made. Although there was a slight dig about not bringing me up to be so impolite there was an acceptance of the offer and a smiley face with the reply.
Even the usually uninterested Effy, hmm, not actually her stage name but I might suggest it. Sorry, even Eff, had been annoyed because I refused to spill the beans over the phone and by the fact I had other plans for the day. Needless to say me pointing out how hypocritical she was being given I'd barely seen her lately due to Matt monopolising her time wasn't appreciated either. I could picture the gritted teeth and frown as she replied that was the point of today, to catch up on each other's news. When I'd jokingly asked if her news was a confession she'd reverted to type and shagged Matt she tutted and hung up on me. So I guess that was a no.
I tugged awkwardly at the hem of my shirt, the closer we got to our destination the more I panicked. Maybe my clothes were too casual, I mean skinny jeans and a shirt with a well worn pair of trainers made me feel comfortable but I didn't want Mr and Mrs Fitch to think I was scruffy.
"You look gorgeous." Emily's voice pierced my thoughts.
I turned to find the warm brown eyes twinkling at me, "Em, the lights have changed..."
She turned her attention back to the road, "Stop looking so worried. It's a barbie, all very casual and relaxed and I repeat, you look gorgeous."
"I know that should make me feel better but you always think I look good. What if your parents think I'm slovenly. Katie's always looking at what I wear with distaste..." I prattled on.
"Auntie Katie does that to everyone." Danny chipped in from the back seat.
I smiled, "So I'm not being singled out then?"
Emily shook her head, "I suspect she started on me in the womb and my parents aren't exactly finger on the pulse of fashion people. My Dad will probably be wearing jeans and a t-shirt, which he'll cover with his ridiculous James Bond apron..."
I heard a giggle behind me, "It says 'licence to grill' on it."
"That's quite funny."
I was shot a withering look. "The novelty wears off, trust me. Mum will have some floaty, weird thing on because we have guests and it's all about maintaining her 'TV persona'."
"Grandma's really cool once you get to know her but sometimes she can be a bit weird in front of other people when she first meets them." Danny said sagely.
I gave Emily a worried glance, "Maybe I shouldn't have come, this should be a nice relaxing family day."
She gave my knee a reassuring squeeze, "Baby, stop stressing. My Mum winds me up anyway regardless of who's around, so there's always an element of tension."
"I don't want to make it worse for you, by giving you one more thing to worry about."
Emily smiled, "You're a very nice thing to worry about and regardless where we are I always want to make sure you're ok."
I held her gaze and my heart fluttered at the thought of her wanting to take care of me. "Thank you."
"Just being a protective girlfriend." She replied.
"Looks like Grandma needs to be on her best behaviour today." Danny said seriously.
Emily's expression changed to a much sterner one, "she'd better be, she can say what she likes about me but woe betide her if she even thinks about being snotty with you."
I gulped and glanced at Danny's wide eyed expression, I don't think I was the only person in the car who was really glad not to be Jenna Fitch today.
We passed through a small village and Emily switched the radio off so I guessed we were nearly there. A couple of minutes later a large driveway leading to a massive gate came into view.
"Jesus, will you look at that? Not exactly in keeping with the open countryside is it? This is the trouble with planners these days, throw enough money and bribes at them and they'll let you do anything. It shouldn't be allowed. It's probably some naff footballer's crystal encrusted palace." I went off on one.
I heard a sigh, "Babe, can you try not to rant too much today please? At least wait until my parents know you a bit better before you tear their choice of lifestyle to shreds eh?"
I sat open mouthed as Emily pulled the car into aforementioned driveway. "You're kidding..."
My incredulity grew as the camera trained onto the car and the gates almost noiselessly clicked open to let us through.
"Isn't it cool Naomi? It only lets you in if it recognises the car number." Danny said proudly.
I nodded not totally trusting myself to speak. We drove through the gate and continued up the drive, I mean for fuck's sake the actual house itself hadn't even come into view yet. I stared at Emily, who shrugged and smiled sheepishly. She knew fine well she'd down played this when I asked about her parents' house. A large converted barn came into view and I exhaled, ok so maybe there was a bit of land with it but the house itself wasn't that ostentatious.
"That's the live in accommodation for the staff." Emily said as she read my thoughts.
My eyes bulged, "nice work if you can get it..."
I heard her gulp nervously as we continued our journey through a wooded area, which opened up to reveal an avenue of trees with the biggest fuck off house I'd ever seen at the end of it.
"Holy fu... Lip. How massive is that? Oh my God, is that a tennis court? Where's the swimming pool Em?" I asked sarcastically.
She blushed, "Round the back."
Oh you're shitting me? Never in a million years had I been expecting this. Emily had always been vague and even Cook had mentioned it was big but not on this scale.
Emily stopped the car, "Cook was right, I should have prepared you more."
I sat with my arms folded and a stony expression.
"Naoms, please I didn't mean to mislead you. But you got so annoyed when I was over at yours for lunch that time." Emily beseeched me.
"But it's obscene Emily, two people live in that, just two. All that space going to waste, no wonder there's a housing crisis when the rich keep hold of all this land just so they can have a nice view." I spluttered.
"The horses need a lot of exercise." Danny piped up.
Emily glared in his direction to let him know he wasn't helping.
"I don't believe it, it's like being presented with a vision of everything I find morally and socially wrong about this country." I ranted.
Danny tutted, "It's just Grandma and Grandad's house, what's the big deal? I don't mind our house isn't as big. Ellie says sometimes people are better than you and that's just life."
"But that's just it Dan, having money doesn't automatically make you better than anyone else." I explained as I turned around.
He looked puzzled, "But you don't work for free, you work for money so you can go on holiday. Lots of people don't have holidays, but you don't give your money to them or stop going yourself."
Some of the fight started to leave me, especially as I was probably about to be out thought by a seven year old, again.
Emily stroked my cheek, "can you please try to park your objections just for today? I know it's a bit grand but it's not like we're this ancient line of nobility, at the end of the day they're just my parents Naomi."
I rolled my eyes, "Ok, I'm sorry, rant over."
She kissed me, "Thank you. Now come on, I'm starving."
The downside of my annoyance disappearing was that my panic had returned with a vengeance. I smoothed down my shirt as we waited for the door to be opened.
"I didn't bring anything, no flowers or wine, nothing." I hissed at Emily.
She took my hand, "Don't worry, it was very short notice."
"But even so it's rude not to turn up with some sort of offering." I insisted.
She rang the bell again, and I do actually mean a proper bell, you could hear it chiming through the house. "They must be out the back already."
"Is it the butler's day off?" I muttered under my breath.
"Naomi..." Emily chastised. "But yes, the staff do get Sundays off, Mum and Dad aren't total slave drivers."
Danny ran off and we walked more sedately around the perimeter of the house, until we heard voices. I gripped Emily's hand more tightly and she smiled reassuringly at me. We turned a corner and a snort of laughter escaped my mouth.
It was Cook. On the lawn. Playing croquet.
I shook my head, "Now I've seen everything."
"Oh don't worry Naomi, there'll be plenty of time for a game later." Emily teased.
"You won't catch me playing that upper class toss." I said firmly.
She winked, "I bet I can persuade you."
I began to redden as croquet suddenly didn't seem such a bad game after all.
"Alright Naoms? Impressive ain't it?" Cook said with a grin.
"The house or the fact you can hit a ball with a hammer?" I responded.
"It's called a mallet actually." He corrected. "And I meant the gaff."
I looked at the view of the sprawling countryside, "It's not too shabby I suppose."
Katie tutted, "Oh don't tell me, it offends your right-on principles."
I shrugged, "I promised Em I'd keep my opinions to myself, so I wouldn't be rude."
Katie rolled her eyes, "it's a good job you'll manage that without being smug..."
"Come on you two, can't you stop the sniping for one day as well?" Emily asked.
"Yeah, it gets really boring after a while." Cook confirmed.
"Everyone alright for drinks?" A thick scouse accent floated across a hedge.
"We'll come through now." Emily called back. "Let's leave them to it eh babe?"
I followed her through a gate into an enclosed garden, in one corner there was a tallish man, sure enough wearing an apron, prodding away at the coals. In another area a woman was listening to Danny as he told her a story.
"Emsie!" The man exclaimed as he pulled her into a bear hug.
She laughed, "Hi Dad, you act like you haven't seen me for ages."
"I can't help it if I'm happy to see you." He replied.
He turned to me, "And you must be the mysterious Naomi, I wish I could say we've heard a lot about you, but this one kept you a secret."
I nodded and held out my hand, "It's very nice to meet you Mr Fitch."
I was shocked as he wrestled me into a hug as well, "Call me Rob."
"Dad calm down a bit. Give Naomi a chance to get to know you before you invade her personal space." Emily instructed.
"That's exactly what I was going to say." A soft Scottish accent stated.
"Hello Mum, this is Naomi." Emily introduced us.
A hand was thrust out, "Jenna Fitch, pleased to meet you."
I took it and shook in what I hoped was a firm enough grip, "Likewise Mrs Fitch."
"So have you and Emily been dating long?" She leapt straight in and I noted the fact there was no attempt to get me to call her Jenna.
"Mum! At least let us get a drink before you give Naomi the third degree." Emily said with a tut.
I shifted uncomfortably, "We've known each other a while but not dated for that long, no."
Emily came back with two beers, she saw my frown, "Don't worry, I won't be driving home, we can get a cab, I'll pick the car up tomorrow."
"Sorry, I didn't mean to question you..." I began.
Emily smiled, "I would never get in a car if even the tiniest amount of alcohol had passed my lips, it's just not worth it. If you had an accident there'd always be that shred of doubt you might have been quicker if you hadn't been drinking even if you're not over the limit."
Jenna pursed her lips, "In any case, I wouldn't allow you to take my grandson."
Emily rolled her eyes, "that goes without saying so it's a good job I wouldn't ever do it isn't it?"
Rob shook his head, "You two, honestly. Anyway, I'm not being rude Naomi but I'd better get back to the food. It'll be ready in 10 minutes or so."
"Great, it smells delicious." I said as he left.
"Sorry Naomi you were saying? You've not been together long?" Jenna said with a slightly false smile.
"We've known each other roughly six months. Naomi came into the shop one day with a list of the most bizarre sounding sandwiches." Emily said smiling at me.
I smiled back, "Yeah, my boss enjoys taunting me with the lunch run but my luck was in that day because I walked into SandFitches and met Emily."
Jenna looked past me and said distractedly, "And what is it you do Naomi?"
"Nothing as glamorous as TV work I'm afraid. I'm a p.a. you know a personal assistant." Oh great Naomi, spell it out and imply she's stupid.
She smiled, "I have one myself. So you started as friends and it turned into something more?"
"It's... erm... a bit complicated." How did I explain this without criticising Emily?
Turns out I didn't have to. "Actually it was more than friendship in the beginning but I didn't tell Naomi about Danny and she found out from a mutual friend. We weren't on speaking terms for a while but luckily for me Naomi is a very generous and kind person so she gave me a second chance."
I smiled gratefully at Emily.
"Honestly Emily, do you always have to make things harder for yourself? What do I keep saying about honesty and trust in a relationship?" Jenna said exasperatedly.
"That they're the cornerstones, although surely there's supposed to be four?" Emily replied sarcastically.
Jenna rolled her eyes, "Only if you restrict your mind to the conventional, have a bit of imagination."
I took a sip of beer as my attention pinged between the two if them like I was watching a game of tennis.
"You'll have to excuse my Mother, she doesn't believe in a world restricted by boring things like the fundamental laws of physics or any of that nonsense." Emily explained as I hid a smile.
"Please Emily not this again. I'm a trained life coach and it's my job to release potential in people." She turned to me, "you've probably seen our programme?"
I flinched at the thought of saying no, but she was the one who said she was a fan of honesty, "Sorry I've never seen it, I don't watch much TV and I'm rarely home in time. My Mum's a big fan though."
What? It's only a little white lie.
The shock on her face was evident, "what never? Not a single episode?"
Emily looked amused, "I know, I couldn't believe it either, apparently some people's lives don't totally revolve around 'don't get fit, get Fitch'."
"Rob, where did you put those archive DVDs? Naomi hasn't watched DGFGF, we must lend her some copies." Jenna shouted.
My eyes narrowed and Emily mouthed 'sorry' at me.
"There are some fantastic episodes, really inspiring, especially when Rob and I work together to holistically deliver a solution, body and mind in harmony." Jenna gushed.
I nodded, "Hmmm, sounds really great. No wonder Emily wanted to be a doctor, to carry on the family tradition of making a difference."
Emily nearly inhaled her beer as she tried to hide her laughter, while Jenna stared at me like she was trying to work out if I was taking the piss. I didn't intend to, but honestly, what a load of claptrap and she obviously believed her own hype.
"I receive hundreds of letters a week testifying to the fact the programme has changed their lives, not to mention the obvious evidence of the lucky few who actually appear. Last week for example there was a woman on the show who lost four stone thanks to Rob's fitness regime. Trying to reprogram her mind was a little bit harder but in the end she stopped associating food with affection or love." Jenna said defensively.
"So you kind of brain wash people, but with a different message? The fact it's, in your view, positive makes it ok?" I queried.
Out of the corner of my eye Emily gave me a slightly stern look, it wasn't a 'back off totally' more of a 'don't push it too far.'
Jenna regarded me haughtily, "Actually I do think that yes. What's better? Having the fact you a strong, independent woman with choices reinforced or telling you being a fat, unhealthy, typical careless single mother on benefits is the best you can hope for?"
My eyes widened, had I really heard that correctly? "excuse me?"
Cook and Katie were just walking past when they heard the edge in my voice. Katie and Emily did that telepathic conversation thing which obviously told her it was worth stopping to listen.
Jenna looked puzzled, "What did I say? Surely positive messages are better than negative ones?"
"Of course they are, as long as everyone agrees which one is which." I stated sharply.
Emily rested her hand on my arm and I remembered my promise. I was about to apologise, but she jumped in.
"I'm a single mother, was I careless the only time I slept with a man?" She asked.
Jenna rolled her eyes, "Oh don't be silly Emily, that's totally different. Your husband died, you're not a single parent through choice."
Katie snorted, "So choosing to be a single parent, no matter what the reason, is wrong? What if your husband beats you?"
"Or your wife." I added in for fairness.
"Naomi's Mum brought her up on her own, partly through choice. You don't know her very well yet, but take it from me Gina's done a pretty brilliant job." Emily said firmly as she wrapped her arm around my waist.
Jenna stared between us, "I'm sure she has, I wasn't trying to offend anyone."
It wasn't quite an apology, but it was something. "I think the food's ready."
Jenna grabbed her escape route as she quickly walked off and took Danny as she made her way to the table.
Katie smirked at Emily, "Well that was a first, normally she wouldn't back down."
"Oh, I'm sure there's plenty more to come yet." Emily replied.
"Sorry, I'm not exactly helping." I said sheepishly.
Emily smiled and leaned up to kiss me, "don't apologise, she needs to be challenged when she makes these sweeping generalisations and like I said, no one insults my woman and gets away with it."
Jenna
I smiled down the table at Rob, "Thank you darling, the food looks lovely. Please everyone, help yourselves."
That obviously led to a flurry of activity as plates were grabbed and swapped as if we hadn't eaten for a week and this was the only food we'd eat again for the foreseeable future. I sat back, I could wait, there was enough to sink a battleship so it wasn't as if I'd starve if I held off for five minutes.
"Mrs Fitch?" Naomi offered a plate to me.
I shook my head, "I'm fine thank you, I can wait until everyone else has finished."
Emily shot me a withering look and I wondered what I'd said now. Sometimes that girl was impossible, I could barely open my mouth without getting a sarcastic response. She was convinced Katie had pushed her out of the way so she could be born first, I wasn't so sure, it might easily have been the first act of stubbornness from Emily.
Now don't get me wrong, I love her dearly and I'm immensely proud of her as I am with all my children, yes, even James. She had to grow up faster than most teenagers and she's coped with everything, taken it all in her stride and used it to make her more resilient. But my goodness, she's pigheaded and tenacious as well. Not that I'm saying that's necessarily a bad thing, sticking to your guns can be very positive if channeled correctly, it's just not always fun when you're the one on the other end of a constant battle of wills.
One of the first things I noticed about the twins, even as babies, was that Emily had a quiet determination about her. Katie on the other hand had the attention span of a gnat, if she couldn't do something straight away then she gave up and moved onto something else but Emily would keep going until she succeeded. I vividly remember when they started to walk, both of them pulling themselves up and teetering as they attempted a few unsure steps. As soon as Katie fell over that was it, a few tears and then she'd crawl off to play with a toy. Not Emily, she'd crawl back, her face would set in this steely expression as she pulled herself up and then she'd try again. Needless to say Emily walked far earlier than Katie which came in handy when they started to talk as Emily could escape from her sister's constant stream of instructions.
My attention turned back to the table and I observed my children as I helped myself to food. Katie and this Cook person were interesting, she actually let him get a word in edge ways and more importantly listened to his response. I could also see that although he indulged her he never let her get away with too much. He wasn't exactly what I had in mind for her but most of the 'eligible bachelors' I'd encountered were wet blankets who Katie would have eaten alive. Perhaps they were a better match than I could have achieved and she seemed happy.
Then I observed Emily and Naomi, well technically it was Emily, Naomi and Danny because as usual he'd dictated the seating plan and was firmly ensconced between them. I watched to see if it irritated Naomi but on the contrary she talked to him almost as much as Emily and listened carefully to his answers back, even when he was going on about that irritating Ellie girl, a right little madam she is, but I digress.
There was a lot of chatter around the table but every now and then they'd glance at each other and smile in that secret coupley way when you find it difficult to keep your eyes off one another. They also found several ways to brush fingertips or touch each other in spite of my Grandson's constant demands on their attention. Naomi looked up and saw me staring, I gave a quick smile before I turned away slightly embarrassed I'd been caught.
"You alright love? You're very quiet." Rob asked in a concerned tone.
I nodded, "of course, just enjoying the weather and the fact I'm spending the day with my family and their guests."
Rob smiled, satisfied with my answer, although he looked like the only one who believed me.
"Grandma, guess where we went yesterday?" Danny challenged.
"I don't know sweetheart, to a museum?" I offered.
Danny made a face, "No! It was something fun."
"Ok then, the park?" My next guess also fell flat.
"I go to the park all the time, this was something exciting. Try harder Grandma." He said with derision.
I pretended to think, "Hmmm, no I'm all out of ideas, you'll have to tell me."
His face lit up, "Naomi took us abroad and we went to the spaceship restaurant then we watched fighting in the castle."
I looked at Emily for an explanation.
"We went to Cardiff, had lunch at Yo!Sushi and there was a reenactment of a medieval tournament on at the castle, it was all perfectly safe." Emily said defensively.
I bit my tongue, "I didn't say it wasn't..."
"And then Naomi read me a bedtime story and had a sleepover with Mummy." Danny continued.
I tried to keep my face neutral, it was none of my business.
Danny shovelled some food into his mouth, "They didn't get much sleep though, they were still giggling when I got up to go to the bathroom."
"What did I say about speaking with your mouth full?" Emily chastised in an obvious attempt to change the subject.
"Leave him alone Emily, it's better he has a healthy appetite than is picky." I commented back.
That got me a glare.
"Come on now, let's enjoy our lunch eh? No bickering." Rob said in a placatory voice.
I sighed, chance would be a fine thing, "So how's the business going, did that contact I gave you materialise?"
Emily was ignoring me so it was Katie who answered, "They've been putting quite a bit of business our way actually, thanks Mum."
See how different they both were? Emily would rather pull her own teeth out than acknowledge I'd been helpful.
"Where's Uncle James?" Danny enquired.
"He's gone away with some school friends to celebrate their exams finishing." I explained.
"Uncle James is fun, he tells silly jokes and keeps getting hit by girls." Danny informed Naomi.
Rob chuckled, "Uncle James doesn't learn from his mistakes."
I shot him a look, "Rob, I don't think it's appropriate to discuss our absent son in front of guests. He's high spirited that's all."
Emily snorted, "That's one way of describing it. So where has he gone? To Rupert's ma-ma and pa-pa's in Tuscany?"
I glared at her as she put on a false voice, "please Emily, there's no need to be rude but yes they've gone to Miles' family home in Provence. I think it's nice they can relax before university."
"You would. Honestly James is going to end up totally spoilt and not understand the value of working hard for anything if he's handed it all on a plate." Emily said with a scoff.
I sighed, "Emily, please don't be so dismissive. You were all given a helping hand once we had the money to do it. James studied hard and if we can pay for him to have a break before he begins his degree then we will. It's not my fault we didn't have the same lifestyle when you and Katie were younger but my offer for Danny still stands."
She stared at me, "He's not going to some poncey boarding school, I don't care how good a reputation its got, I'm not sending him away, his place is at home with me."
"I'm not suggesting he goes now, but as he get older he'll benefit from smaller classes and more personal teaching. State schools are all about mediocrity, as long as you get a pass who cares if you could have done better?" I argued.
"Mum drop it ok? The local schools are fine, end of conversation." Emily said tersely.
I tutted, "Honestly you'd think I was suggesting Danny was sent away as a punishment. It'd be fun and make him a more well rounded person. It'd be an adventure eh Dan?"
He looked unsurely between me and Emily, "I suppose an adventure would be ok."
"There you go, he'd thrive. Naomi, try to talk some sense into my daughter." I said with a small laugh.
The blonde shrugged, "I would if I agreed with you but sorry, I don't."
I raised my eyebrow, at least they presented a unified front "Gosh, have I offended you again, what is it this time? You don't believe in giving children a good education so they can make something of themselves?"
I saw Emily bristle but Naomi squeezed her hand, "Actually, I'm a firm believer in a good education and giving everyone the best chance in life. But the key word is everyone, not just the privileged few who can pay for it."
"The state system is a total lottery and it's overcrowded, surely if you can afford to pay then you should to free up capacity?" I repeated an argument I'd read somewhere.
Naomi shook her head, "Christ, that sounds like something from the Daily Mail."
I looked at my food, maybe that was where I'd got it from, but clearly admitting that wasn't an option, I'd get ripped to shreds.
"Katie and I went to state school, it didn't do us any harm." Emily reasoned.
I shrugged, "I'm well aware of that, but things are different now, bigger classes, less aspiration..."
Naomi stared at me, "And it'll keep getting worse as long as people have the option to take their kids out of the state system and buy their way to success. They get the best teachers, the better behaved pupils and leave the state to deal with the problem cases. Bright children are more likely to get lost and under achieve."
I held up my hands, "I think you've just successfully proved my point for me. I want what's best for my Grandson, I want the world to be his oyster and I'm sorry, whether you like it or not, that means paying for his education."
Emily tutted, "So that's it then, all mapped out for him eh? Boarding school, Oxbridge and then the City? What about what he wants Mum? What about giving Danny time and space to figure out who he is?"
"Emsie, your Mum only wants what's best for Dan, we all do right?" Rob soothed in attempt to avert a full row.
Emily mumbled something but let it drop and we lapsed into silence.
"I know what I want to do when I grow up anyway." Danny stated confidently.
I smiled, he changed his mind every five seconds, "What's that then sweetheart?"
He looked up at Naomi, "I'm going to be a lawyer."
"What happened to playing for Liverpool?" Rob teased.
Danny paused, "Maybe I'll do that first and then I can be a lawyer when I get bored of it."
"So where did this suddenly come from? I wouldn't expect you to even know what the law was." I questioned.
"Me and Naomi play the law all the time, she said I'm really good at it." Danny said proudly.
A puzzled look appeared on my face, "I'm not really sure Naomi is qualified to tell you whether you're any good Danny."
He looked indignant, "Yes she is, she's really clever and is ace at the law, don't be mean Grandma."
Oh God, now they were all at it, "I'm not being mean, I'm just confused why a pa would have the credentials to offer a view on a career as a solicitor."
Danny tutted, "Naomi's only doing that so she can go on holiday, then she's going to put bad people in jail."
Naomi laughed, "I might not exactly do that Dan, although the people in charge at most of the corporate firms probably deserve to go to prison."
"I see, so the pa job is temporary?" I asked.
"Yeah Mum, but it wouldn't matter if it wasn't, Naomi and I would still be together." Emily said sharply.
"I don't think I suggested you wouldn't." I turned to the blonde, "In that case, I wonder if you'd mind having a look at something for me? A new contract the tv studio wants us to sign."
Emily sighed and opened her mouth, but Naomi cut in, "Er sure, but I'm not fully qualified yet so I'd still advise you to go to a practicing solicitor."
"I understand that, but I'd still value your opinion. Finish your food first and then we can go to my study." I said with a smile.
I glanced at Rob who was smiling wryly at me, "Maybe you'd like to take a look at the gym afterwards Cook?"
He shrugged, "Alright, why not."
"Excellent, you girls will be ok for a while if we whisk your other halves away won't you?" I said brightly.
Emily and Katie looked at each other and then protectively at their respective partners.
"As long as you promise to bring them back in one piece, we'll be fine."
Naomi nervously followed me into the house and down the corridor, I pointed out a few of the rooms and although she made the right noises I could tell she wasn't really concentrating. Cook had the same anxious look on his face when Rob threw an arm round his shoulders and frog marched him towards the gym. Emily and Katie's reaction had quickly alerted them to the fact that perhaps the post lunch chats weren't going to be quite as friendly as I'd originally made out, even Danny warned us to be nice as we left.
You could hardly blame us though, Rob was fiercely protective of his little girls, as was I in a slightly less overtly aggressive way of course. We'd be failing as parents if we didn't give Naomi and Cook a bit of a grilling, nothing too heavy, but checking them and their intentions out was ok right?
I held open the door and Naomi entered my study, "take a seat."
She quickly smiled and sat on one of the chairs. I wandered over to the window and looked across the fields, I could hear her foot tapping awkwardly behind me.
"I love the view from here, the rolling fields are so calming." I began.
She cleared her throat, "it must be a very peaceful place to work, you're very lucky."
I turned around and raised an eyebrow, "There was an element of luck I suppose, as there is with anything, but mostly it was years of hard work."
"I didn't mean to imply you hadn't worked for this..." She said falteringly.
I smiled, "I'm sure you didn't, but it's obvious you don't really agree with our lifestyle."
Naomi frowned, "It's not my place to judge how other people live."
"Hmmm, but you do, judge I mean." I corrected.
"I'm sorry if that's the impression I give, I'm not trying to be rude." Naomi replied.
I shook my head, "No need to apologise, I'm not embarrassed about the fact that material things like a nice house or a lovely view are important to me. I also know they don't mean that much to other people, or at least sometimes people pretend they don't when they haven't got them."
She fixed me with a stare, "Sometimes people genuinely aren't that bothered, they don't need the latest gadgets, the biggest car or house to make themselves feel like they're somebody."
I stared back and was satisfied when Naomi looked away first, "Rob and I lived in a bedsit when we first got married, it was tiny but all we could afford. It had one of those beds that folded away into the wall, a stove in the corner and barely enough room to fit a sofa. It was about as far away from this as you could imagine, but we had each other and we were blissfully happy."
Naomi smiled, "It sounds romantic."
I laughed, "That's what we told ourselves but then again we didn't have much choice. We had to move when the girls were born, it would have been hard enough with one baby but with two it was impossible. We managed to save up for a flat, with separate bedrooms can you imagine, I was so excited. Seems silly thinking back now."
She continued to stare at me with a slightly confused expression that said 'this is all very interesting but is there a point?'
"My point Naomi, is that Rob and I understand what it's like to live hand to mouth, we weren't born into this, we achieved it and made it happen. Contrary to what you or my daughter thinks that makes us appreciate what we have even more, not take it for granted. We're well aware we're lucky and that our money gives us choices not every one has, but that doesn't mean we have to flagellate ourselves over it. We do a lot of work for charity and give back to the community, but I didn't work my arse off all these years to deny myself, or my family, things when I can afford them." I said sternly.
She looked slightly shocked, "I appreciate that, I think we all want the best life possible for ourselves and the people we care about. One of the main things that drove me when I was growing up was the fact I wanted to make sure my Mum was always financially secure. She sacrificed such a lot for me over the years and I wanted to make sure I repaid her."
My head tilted, I hadn't expected something personal, "I'm sure she doesn't expect anything, as parents you rarely do."
Naomi shrugged, "It's not about what she expects, it's about me saying thank you, that's important to me as are a lot of the qualities my Mum instilled in me. That's why I find inequality so difficult to stomach I suppose, it seems so unfair that some people have everything while there are others without something as basic as a roof over their heads."
I reached into my desk drawer and handed her a card, she took it and a frown appeared on her face. "It's an outreach centre in Bristol..."
She nodded, "I know, I used to volunteer there when I was back from uni."
"It was one of the first things Rob and I set up when we got the show, I know not everyone agrees with them, say they keep people on the streets but we make sure they get a hot meal and we put them in touch with other agencies who can provide more permanent solutions." I explained.
Her mouth opened in surprise, "you're responsible for this?"
I smiled wryly, "I know it's a shock, a materialistic monster like me actually giving a shit about others but not everything is black and white Naomi."
She looked contrite, "Sorry, I guess I assumed it was all for show, you know the parties and 'we do a lot for charidee' line."
"I tolerate the parties at best, most of the guests are publicity seeking idiots who'd go to the opening of an envelope if it got them in the paper. Rob absolutely despises them, he skulks off to the gym as soon as he can but one of us has to play the good host." I said matter of factly.
"You could refuse to hold any more, just stop." Naomi suggested.
I snorted, "that's the fickle world of celebrity I'm afraid, no more parties and it wouldn't be long before the ratings would drop."
"It sounds exhausting." Naomi commiserated.
"It can be but it got me this house, a pool and all the trappings so I can't really complain. Now, tell me about your relationship with Emily." My sudden change of conversation topic caught her off guard.
"Erm... What do you mean?" She asked.
I folded my arms, "It may have escaped your notice but my daughter and I have a slightly testy relationship. She's far closer to her Dad and rarely tells me anything unless I drag it out of her. Even then she can be deliberately obtuse just to annoy me. Honestly, I'm not sure where she gets it from because Rob and I are pretty laid back."
The cheeky cow hid a smile. "I can't imagine..."
My eyes narrowed, "But none of that changes the fact I'm her mother and her happiness is of paramount importance to me. Emily's very sensitive, she always has been. She's one of the most open people I know and she takes everyone at face value. That means she trusts and loves easily but it also means she can get hurt more often than people who are more defensive."
Naomi stared directly at me, "Mrs Fitch, I love your daughter very, very much and all the things you've just described are fundamental reasons why I fell in love with Emily in the first place. Her happiness, and Danny's, is one of the most important things in the world to me and I'll do anything to make sure I protect it and them."
"That's all I wanted to know." I said simply.
"You should be proud of the fact Emily is so open and trusting, it's quite rare." She said with a rueful look.
My brow furrowed, "I am proud of it, it's one of her best qualities."
Naomi paused, "Oh I thought you were implying it was a weakness or a flaw."
"Of course not, what on earth gave you that impression? I love the fact she's not hard hearted or cynical, it makes a refreshing change, especially given the circles I mix in." I said incredulously.
"Sorry, it's just Emily thinks you constantly find fault with her, I suppose I assumed you were being critical." Naomi said sheepishly.
I was stunned, "Did she actually say that? That I find fault?"
She nodded, "It's how she feels, it's why she thinks your relationship is strained sometimes, that and uni."
"Emily didn't go to university." I said in puzzlement.
Naomi paused, "This is just my theory ok? But I think Emily feels that she's disappointed you by not becoming a doctor, it was kind of your thing, you know the way you have fashion and girlie stuff with Katie?"
I still didn't understand, "I admit I was pleased when Emily mentioned doing medicine but she had Danny, there was no way she could juggle the two especially after JJ died. I don't regard her not going to university as a failure, I'm immensely proud of the fact she runs a successful business and is a wonderful mother, which is arguably far more important."
"Have you ever told Emily that?"
"Of course I have." I racked my brains for when, "I mean I must have told her..."
I opened and closed my mouth a few times, I was genuinely shocked. Yes we bickered but I honestly thought it was like sport to us both, I had no idea it came across as constant criticism to Emily. I just wanted what was best for her, as I did with Katie and James.
"Sorry Mrs Fitch, maybe I should have kept my mouth shut." Naomi said.
I shook my head, "no thank you for being so candid, I appreciate it, and please call me Jenna."
She gave me a genuine smile, possibly the first of the day, "I can take a look at that contract now if you like?"
I nodded and handed over the document as I smiled back, "Let's hope there's nothing too revelatory in there, I've had quite enough surprises for one day."
We chatted as we made our way back outside as soon as we got into the garden Emily rushed over.
"Are you ok? You've been gone a while." She asked with concern.
Naomi smiled, "I'm fine but could murder another beer, I'm parched."
"Come on then, Danny wants to show you how to play croquet. You might be able to refuse me but I'd like to see you try it with him." Emily said with a smile.
"You'll be a Daily Mail reader in no time." I joked.
Naomi laughed, "I give you permission to shoot me the day that happens. See you later Jenna."
I nodded, "and thanks for the advice Naomi."
"Like I said it's still worth double checking with your solicitor."
I watched as the two of them sauntered off, well Naomi was relaxed, Emily was still fussing. Right Jenna, stop that, no wonder it always comes across as a put down. I smiled at my husband as he returned to the garden with Cook. Katie immediately made her way over and checked he was ok in a similar way that Emily had with Naomi.
Rob came over to me and rolled his eyes, "Honestly, you'd think we were torturin' them or something."
"Well?" I asked.
He nodded, "Seems like a nice lad with honourable enough intentions."
I snorted, "As honourable as any man in his early twenties can be."
Rob nudged me, "Oy! Get away with your sweeping generalisations. You weren't exactly pure and innocent when we first started going out, you were randy as hell, still are."
"Rob!" I hissed, "don't say things like that when the children are here."
"They're out of earshot, stop panicking." He teased.
"So, no threats needed then?" I enquired.
He laughed, "A few warnings, I'd hardly be doin' me job properly without them. But I was told very politely, but firmly to back off. It's obvious he cares about Katie a lot."
I smiled, "That's good, it's about time she settled down, I worry about all these casual flings she has."
"Come on love, she's young, don't go marrying her off yet." Rob chastised.
I tutted, "I didn't say that, I just think the fact she's being a bit more like Emily and committing to a steady relationship is healthy."
"How much have you had to drink?" He asked.
I frowned, "A couple of glasses of wine, why?"
He shrugged, "it's not often you encourage Katie to be more like Ems."
I sighed, "funny you should say that. Rob, do I constantly criticise Emily?"
He glanced at the floor, "Er, not constantly, no."
"Honestly? Is that how it seems to people, that I'm trying to find fault?" I pushed.
"Listen love, it's not all one way traffic, I know that, but yes, you're a lot harder on Emily than you are with Katie or James." He admitted.
I shook my head, "I don't mean to be, we just seem to be able to wind each other up so easily."
He smiled, "maybe because you're a lot more alike than either of you wants to admit? Both stubborn, refuse to back down, always think you're right?"
"I am not like that! I'm very receptive to other people's ideas and thoughts." I said indignantly.
"In work maybe, in family life, not so much." Rob said with a grin.
I harrumphed, "cheeky bugger, how come you get away with so much then?"
He kissed me, "because I learnt not to argue with you a long time ago. Anyway, how was the chat with Naomi?"
"We were right to be suspicious of the contract, the additional clause they tried to slip in is dodgy as hell. It means they can move studios at any time which will count as a break and they can renegotiate or get some one new in for half the cost." I explained.
"They can sod off if they think we're signing that, I knew they were trying to pull a fast one. But that's not what I meant, how did 'the talk' go?" He clarified.
I smiled, "Ok I think, she seems genuine, a bit bolshy, but it's clear she loves Emily and Danny a lot."
"So that's two down, all we need is to sort James out and they'll all be off our hands." Rob said as we walked through the gate.
"He's off to uni soon, it's almost the same and probably a lot less hassle than foisting him on some poor unsuspecting girl." I added with a smile.
Rob nudged me, "I thought he was high spirited?"
My eyes rolled, "That's what we say in front of other people..."
We both jumped as a high pitched squeal cut through the air. We looked over to find Cook chasing Katie round the grass with his hands clasped together. Naomi and Emily were watching and laughing while Danny stood stony faced.
"Naomi, it's your turn." He whined.
She ruffled his hair, "Sorry Dan. Remind me again which end do I hit it with?"
He dragged her off, muttering under his breath. Cook gave up the chase and followed them leaving Emily and Katie alone. We made our way over.
"Everything alright girls?" Rob asked.
Katie was out of breath, "These shoes weren't made for running."
Emily laughed, "Should have worn some like mine."
Katie took one look and snorted, "I don't do screaming lezza shoes."
"Don't be mean Katie, they're very sensible shoes." I stated.
"That's what I said - screaming lezza shoes." Katie repeated.
Rob cleared his throat, "So I had a nice chat with your young man."
Katie looked warily at him, "What did you say Dad?"
He held his hands up, "I didn't say anything, I showed him round the gym and we had a talk, man to man."
"If I find out you've been trying to frighten him, I'll... I'll... Well I don't know exactly but I will do something and it might not be nice." Katie spluttered.
Rob chuckled, "Speaking of threatening behaviour..."
Emily turned to me, "What about Naomi? What did you say to her Mum?"
I shrugged, "Nothing much, we were just chatting too. She's got strong opinions hasn't she?"
Emily folded her arms, "Yes, she's very passionate about things she believes in, it's one of the reasons I love her."
"There's no need to be so defensive Emily, it was a comment not a dig." I said exasperatedly.
"Sometimes it's hard to tell the difference. But you know what? I don't care what you think of her. Naomi's gentle and kind, she's intelligent, stunningly beautiful and she adores me and Danny. I love her and as far as I'm concerned she's perfect so it doesn't matter if you approve or not." Emily said defiantly.
"Go Em." Katie whispered under her breath.
I glanced at Rob and then back to my daughter, "I was going to say, if I could get a word in edge ways, that she seems very nice."
The twins exchanged glances, "What do you mean nice?"
"For God's sake Emily, I mean I like her, is that so hard to comprehend?" I snapped back.
Emily frowned, "But you never like my girlfriends, there's always something wrong with them."
"Well I'm sure she's not perfect, but she loves you and makes you happy so that's good enough for me." I said patiently.
They were staring at me like I had two heads, "What about Cook?"
"He seems very pleasant too. I thought you might like to invite them both on holiday." I offered.
"Seriously, what have you done with my Mother?" Emily asked incredulously.
I sighed, "I can't win, I don't know why I even bother."
"You're not joking about the holiday?" Katie checked.
"No! Please invite them both, there's plenty of room and I'm sure you'll enjoy it more if they come along too." I said indignantly.
"So what happened to 'it's Fitch family time?'" Emily queried.
I shrugged, "Neither of you were in relationships before, I thought you might have a better time if we could all be together rather than you moping around and missing them."
"Have you banged your head?" Emily still wasn't convinced.
"I'm just trying to be supportive Emily, I thought you'd be pleased I wasn't sniping all the time." I started, "and for the record, I'm not disappointed you're not a doctor and I don't think you're a bad mother, Danny is a wonderful little boy and you're bringing him up superbly."
Both twins stood open mouthed as they stared at me, honestly from the looks on their faces you'd think I'd just told them I was a bloody alien or something.
Emily blinked a few times, "Thank you."
"You're welcome, I may not tell you very often but that's because I thought you understood how much I love you and how proud I am, of all of you all in fact." I clarified.
Katie pinched Emily's arm, "just making sure this is real."
We stood in awkward silence until Danny came back, "Alright lad? The footie's on in a minute."
Danny sighed, "Mummy said we need to go soon."
I smiled at Emily, "I can do the school run tomorrow. Give you and Naomi some time together."
She smiled back, "thanks, that'd be great. Maybe we can have a coffee when I come to pick the car up?"
I nodded, "I'd like that."
Emily's face lit up as soon as Naomi came into view, "hey baby, who won?"
Cook tutted, "me, although as usual Naoms tried to make out it was her."
"I looked up the rules on my phone and you forfeited." Naomi said in annoyance.
Emily smiled, "Danny's staying here, Katie's at Cook's, we have the house to ourselves."
Naomi's demeanour changed, "Right, ok, well done Cook. So, we need to go?"
"Don't forget your overnight bag." Emily said with a smirk.
Naomi dutifully retrieved it from the car boot.
"Rob, Jenna, thank you for a lovely afternoon, it was great to meet you." Naomi stated confidently.
I smiled, "It was lovely to meet you, see you soon hopefully."
Emily's phone rang, "Taxi's outside."
We said our goodbyes and they kissed Danny, "enjoy the football, I'll see you tomorrow sweetheart."
We stood waving as the cab left, Rob squeezed my waist as it disappeared. "We're watching footie, what you going to do love?"
"We need to sort out the contract." I replied.
Rob shrugged, "Can't it wait? After all it is a Sunday."
I smiled menacingly, "which is exactly why we need to kick their arse. They won't be expecting it and no one messes with a Fitch."
Rob smiled at Danny, "this is why men like a simple life boy."
Dan nodded sagely, "I've already worked out it's pointless to argue with girls Grandad."
Rob grinned at me and winked as they made their way inside, "Very valuable lesson son, very valuable."