~ LOVE IS BLIND ~

***** CHAPTER 71 *****

Kristina stepped out of the elevator and made her way along the corridor towards her office. She was smiling to herself as she thought about what happened yesterday. Tyler and Kristina had managed to talk things over and things seemed even more relaxed between them now. Kristina was still smiling when she opened the door and walked past Lilly’s desk.

“Looks like someone had a good weekend.” Lilly commented, when she saw the smile on Kristina‘s face.

“You could say that.” Kristina said, giving her a huge grin.

“Anyone we know?” Lilly asked, curiously.

“Actually… yes.” Kristina replied. “A rather nice American.”

“David?” Lilly asked, a smile appearing.

“There’s more than one American in this office, Lilly.” Kristina replied. “And besides, I think David has the hots for Angie.”

“He does?” she said, shocked. “Wow, lucky woman, he’s gorgeous.”

“Well don’t let Angie hear you say that.” Kristina replied. “I know for a fact that she likes him too.”

Kristina went into her office and closed the door. She placed her bag and laptop on her desk and looked out the window, admiring the view across London. She had never really looked at it before but now she was starting to see and notice things in a whole new light. It had to be Tyler’s doing. She was actually beginning to think that things were looking up for her. That was until someone knocked on her door and Urs came in.

“Have you got a moment?” he asked. “I wanted to talk to you about the other night.”

“I don’t know, Urs. I‘m… I‘m really busy.” Kristina replied, as she sat down in her chair. “Can it wait? I‘ve only just got here.”

“I know, I’ve been waiting for you to arrive.” Urs replied, sitting down in the chair opposite her. “I want to ask you something.”

Kristina wasn’t sure where this conversation was going to go but if it was about Friday night then it couldn’t be good.

“I’ve been thinking about what you said.” Urs said slowly. “I’ve been going over and over the whole conversation all weekend and I… I can’t help thinking that there was something else you were going to say, that there was something else that you wanted to tell me.”

Kristina didn’t answer; she wasn’t sure what to say to him.

“If there’s something else you want to tell me, Krissy, I’m listening.” Urs said, quietly. “I know we were interrupted on Friday night but I’m positive you were going to say something else. I think it was important and that’s why I’m here.”

Kristina shook her head.

“No… no, there was nothing else.” she replied, faintly.

“Are you sure?” Urs said, leaning forward and resting his arms on the desk. “You said I didn’t hear all of the conversation. It doesn’t matter what it is, or how silly or unimportant you think it might be, I want to know what you were going to say.”

“I’ve already told you, Urs.” Kristina said, reluctantly. “I said all I had to say on Friday. I lied at the hospital, I did love you. That was all I had to say.”

“Why did you tell me though?” Urs asked. “There was no need for you to come and tell me that unless there was more to it.”

“Like what?” Kristina replied.

“I don’t know.” Urs said, shrugging his shoulders. “I’ve been thinking about it all weekend and the only reason I can come up with is that you loved me then and that… that you love me now.”

There was a moments silence before Urs spoke again.

“Do you still love me, Krissy?” Urs said softly.

Kristina swallowed hard; she was trying to swallow back the tears that she could feel starting to build up. She wanted to scream out loud and tell him ‘Yes I love you, I’ve always loved you’ but she couldn’t do it. This was what she had been waiting for; a moment alone with Urs, where he had come to see ‘her’, where he was willing to listen to her, wanting to hear what she had to say. She longed to tell him she loved him. But it wasn’t possible. As much as she hated Marius for what he did and what he said, she did owe him for telling her the truth about Urs’ feelings for her. What was the point in loving a man who was still in love with his dead girlfriend and the only reason he had eyes for you was because you looked just like her? It wouldn’t be a proper relationship and as much as Kristina wanted to be with him, she wanted Urs to love her for who she was, not for who she looked like or reminded him of.

“Krissy, I think there’s something you should know.” Urs said, in a serious tone.

Kristina lowered her eyes to the desk and started to scribble on her note pad. She was beginning to feel nervous and she just wanted to get out of this office and away from Urs.

“I still have feelings for you, Krissy.” Urs said, almost in a whisper as he leant across the desk and put his hand on hers. Kristina didn’t move, she didn’t even look at Urs, she continued to stare at the pen in her hand and then her eyes drifted across to Urs’ hand. She thought back to Friday night, when she had been looking at that same hand, against the door, stopping her from leaving. That was when she was just about to tell him that she loved him and now here they were again.

“Did you hear me, Krissy?” Urs said, again, in a whisper. “I said I still have feelings for you. Strong feelings.”

Kristina slowly lifted her gaze to Urs. He was smiling at her. Kristina felt the butterflies in her stomach as she looked in to his eyes. She could see something there, maybe it was the connection they once shared but it didn’t look or feel the same anymore. Maybe because she knew the truth, that it wasn’t real love; at least not for Urs.

“What are you saying, Urs?” Kristina asked.

“Do I need to spell it out, Krissy?” Urs said, gently caressing her hand in his. “I know it might not seem like it, especially when we first saw each other a few weeks ago but… but I still care for you Krissy. I… I think I’m still in love with you.”

A few days ago Kristina would’ve been the happiest woman on earth to hear those words. She had longed to hear Urs tell her that he still cared for, still loved her, or even thought he was in love with her. But now, it didn’t seem to mean anything. Kristina thought hearing him say it again would change everything but it didn’t mean a thing now.

“You shouldn’t be saying things like that, Urs.” Kristina said, quickly getting up from her chair. “You love Saskia, not me.”

“But Krissy, if we still love each other then we need to talk.” Urs said, getting up from his chair and following her to the door. “Do you still love me?”

“Urs you need to leave.” Kristina said, her hand on the door handle.

Urs put his hand on Kristina’s, stopping her from opening the door.

“Why won’t you answer me, Krissy?” Urs said, softly. “You keep avoiding it but please, just answer this one question. Do you still love me?”

Kristina looked at Urs. She could almost feel her heart breaking as she looked in to his eyes. Why did everything have to be so complicated? She had to lie to Urs yet again to save them both from more hurt.

“No, I don’t love you anymore, Urs.” Kristina said, as she looked him.

Urs was sure Kristina would say yes. He looked in to her eyes, searching for that sparkle, that connection they once had.

************

Tyler had just walked in to the main office when Lilly noticed him.

“Kristina’s got someone in there at the moment.” she told him, as he approached the door.

“Who is it?” Tyler asked. “A client? Anyone important?”

“Urs.” came the short reply from Lilly. Lilly grinned to herself when she realised that Tyler must be the other American.

“No one important then.” Tyler mumbled, as he opened the door and went in.

Tyler opened the door to see Kristina and Urs standing there.

***** CHAPTER 72 *****

“Am I interrupting something?” Tyler asked, as he stood in the doorway and saw Urs standing close to Kristina; much too close for his liking.

Kristina turned and looked at Tyler. He could tell by the look she gave him that she felt uncomfortable and didn’t want Urs there.

“Anything I can help you with, Urs?” Tyler asked, as he walked in to the room and stood next to Kristina. “We’ve got a lot of work to do today.”

“No, thank you.” Urs replied. “It was a personal matter but it can wait, for now. I’ll let you both get on with your work.”

Kristina breathed a sigh of relief as Urs closed the door behind him. She went back over to her desk and sat down, leaning her head back with her eyes closed.

“What did he want?” Tyler asked, as he followed Kristina and sat down on the corner of her desk.

“He wanted to talk to me about Friday night.” Kristina said, opening her eyes and staring at the ceiling.

“What about Friday night?” Tyler asked.

“He guessed there was something else that I was going to say to him.” Kristina replied, faintly. “He actually came out and said it, he asked me if I still loved him.”

“And what did you say?” Tyler asked, frowning.

“I told him I didn’t love him anymore.” Kristina replied, sitting forward in her chair.

“It was for the best, Kristina.” Tyler said, softly.

“I know.” Kristina said, a little tearfully.

“Did he say anything else?” Tyler asked.

“He said that he still cares for me and… he thinks he’s still in love with me.” she replied faintly, as she looked at Tyler, with tears in her eyes. “But he’s not is he, Tyler? He’s still in love with Aimee. I don’t mean a thing to him.”

Kristina hung her head and closed her eyes. She didn‘t want to cry in front of Tyler.

“I’m sorry, Tyler.” Kristina said, when she felt his hand on her shoulder. “I shouldn’t be telling you all this. It’s probably the last thing you want to hear.”

“Don’t worry, Kristina.” Tyler said, softly, kneeling down beside her. “We said we’d get through this together, remember? Things will get easier I promise. You won‘t always feel this way.”

“Why are you being like this?” Kristina asked. “I’ve told you I’m still in love with another man and yet here you are, being so kind and understanding.”

“I guess some things in life are worth waiting for.” Tyler said, shrugging his shoulders. “I’ll wait for how ever long it takes you to forget Urs. We’ve only known each other for a few days but there’s something about you that… I don’t know, I can’t put my finger on it. There was just something about you that drew me to you straight away.”

Kristina smiled.

“I wish I didn’t have to be here.” she said, sighing. “I just want to go home.”

“Are you okay?” Tyler asked, worriedly. “Don’t you feel well? I can drive you home now if you like.”

“No, I’m fine, Tyler.” Kristina replied, quietly laughing. “I meant I wish I could go back to New York. I miss home. I wish we could get away, forget Urs and just concentrate on you and me. I don’t know if I can cope seeing him for however long we have to do this campaign.”

“Well maybe we can take a holiday.” Tyler replied. “We could ask Angie to get someone to cover for us on Friday and Monday. If you’re really missing home, we could fly to New York and make it a long weekend.”

“No, we can’t do that, Tyler.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “There’s so much to be done and I wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving it with anyone else. Besides, Angie gave me this campaign and I can’t start running away as soon as things get a little difficult.”

“I’m sure Angie would understand.” Tyler said, reassuringly. “Perhaps if you just explained things to her.”

“I know you mean well, Tyler and you’re very thoughtful.” Kristina said, taking his hand. “But I’m not going anywhere until this campaign is finished.”

“Well as long as you’re sure.” Tyler said, patting her hand. “But if you change your mind, just say the word and I’ll book the flights.”

“I’m sure.” Kristina replied, gently kissing him on the fore head. “And thank you for the offer.”

“In that case, I’d better get on with some work.” Tyler said, getting to his feet. “I’ll see about getting that photo session arranged that you were talking about last week.”

“Here, you better have this.” Kristina said, as she took a folder from one of the trays on her desk. “Her name’s Kaitlin, and she does some great work. She’ll be perfect for the job. Give her a call, I’m sure she’ll be able to do it.”

“Okay thanks.” Tyler replied, accepting the folder.

Kristina watched Tyler as he walked across the room and sat down at his desk. Kristina was glad that she had agreed to do the campaign, although Angie didn’t really give her much say in the matter. But still, Kristina had met Tyler and she felt as if she could actually start living a normal life again, one that didn’t revolve around Urs. Kristina couldn’t wait for the campaign to end. Then she and Tyler could concentrate on their relationship and Urs would be out of the picture, for good.

****************

Sebastien, David and Carlos were all sitting on the sofa’s in the studio. They were waiting for Urs to arrive.

“I know he’s here.” Carlos replied. “I saw him downstairs and that was at least half an hour ago.”

“So where the hell is he?” David asked. “I thought the Swiss was supposed to be the one that was obsessed with time keeping. This is the second time I’ve known him to be late.”

“Maybe we should just start without him.” Sebastien said, getting up from the sofa. “I’m sure he won’t be long.”

Just as they getting up from the sofa, Urs walked in to the room.

“Ah, the wanderer returns.” David commented, as Urs took off his jacket and threw it across a chair.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Urs asked, following the others over to the large table, with music sheets scattered across it.

“We didn’t think you were going to show up.” Sebastien replied. “Carlos said he saw you downstairs a while ago.”

“Yes well I had something to do.” Urs replied, sitting down. “It was important.”

“Oh, well did you manage to get everything sorted out?” David asked, curiously.

“Not really.” Urs replied, trying to make himself look busy by shuffling some papers on the desk. “But I will do eventually.”

“I hope that doesn’t mean you’re going to disappear later, while we’re trying to work.” Carlos said, sounding a little annoyed.

“I hope not!” David commented. “I’ve got a date with Angie tonight and I was hoping to get another song finished today and maybe even finish a little early.”

“What’s all the fuss about?” Urs said, getting agitated. “I’m only a few minutes late. It’s not the end of the world.”

“So what are we waiting for then?” Sebastien said, before anyone could answer. He sensed that things were getting a little heated and the last thing they needed was an argument. Just as Sebastien picked up his guitar his mobile started to ring. Sebastien looked at the display.

“Sorry guys but I really need to take this call.” he said, before stepping into the other room and closing the door.

“Are we ever going to get any work done?” Urs said, leaning back in his chair.

“That’s great coming from you!” Carlos snapped. “If you had been here on time we would already have got some work done.”

“I told you, I had something important to do.” Urs snapped back.

“What could be more important than this?” Carlos asked. “This could be the biggest career move you’ve ever made and you can’t even be bothered to show up on time.”

“Hey, will you two stop it!” David shouted. “What’s wrong with you two today? You‘re acting like children.”

Carlos and Urs both looked down at the floor. They looked like little school boys who had just been scolded.

“Sorry Carlos.” Urs mumbled.

“So am I.” Carlos replied. “I’ve got a few things on my mind.”

“Yeah me too.” Urs said, sighing.

“Great, friends again.” David said, happily. “Now can we get some work done?”

“Sorry but I need a quick word with Carlos if that’s ok.” Sebastien said, after ending his phone call.

No one objected, for fear of starting another argument.

Carlos followed Sebastien back in to the other room.

“What’s wrong?” Carlos asked.

“The phone call I just had.” Sebastien replied. “It was from my friend in the police force back home. He’s probably breaking the law by doing this but he’s got a copy of the file.”

“So what does it say?” Carlos asked, worriedly. “Did Brian have anything to do with her death?”

“I don’t know.” Sebastien said, shrugging his shoulders. “But he’s sending me a copy of the file. He didn’t want to risk posting it and it ending up somewhere it shouldn’t. So he’s sending it with someone he trusts, a close friend. She’s coming to London today, so hopefully we will know more very soon.”

“I really appreciate you doing this for me, Seb.” Carlos said, a smile appearing on his face for the first time that morning.

“That’s okay.” Sebastien said, patting his friend on the shoulder. “I just hope Brian has nothing to do with all of this and then at least your mind will be at rest.”

Carlos and Sebastien went back to join the others and finally made a start on work.

****************
Abigail had arrived at the Sony offices to walk home with Carlos but he told her that he and Sebastien wanted to stay at work a little longer to work on one of the songs that they were having some trouble with; in fact they were waiting for their visitor to arrive.

Kristina and Tyler had planned to spend some more time with each other that night but earlier that afternoon, Tyler had taken a phone call from his father. Apparently he needed to see him about some important business so Tyler had no other choice than to cancel their plans. Tyler had apologised profusely and promised to make it up to Kristina

In the end, Abigail had invited Kristina back to her and Carlos’ apartment as she could see something was troubling her sister. On the short walk to the apartment, Kristina had filled in Abigail on some of the details, telling her all about the talk with Urs on Friday, Urs’ visit earlier that morning and then Marius’ visit the previous day.

“Why didn’t you tell me that he had come to see you?” Abigail asked, as her and Kristina stepped in to the elevator. “God, what a lowlife.”

Another woman followed them in to the elevator, Kristina and Abigail smiled politely before continuing their conversation, their voices slightly lowered.

“It only happened yesterday.” Kristina replied. “I would’ve told you sooner but I was just too busy today.”

“If you ask me, that Marius needs a damn good slap.” Abigail said, angrily.

“Maybe, but he’s done me a favour really.” Kristina said, thoughtfully.

“You think so?“ Abigail said, surprised. “I don’t see how.”

“Think about it, Abigail.” Kristina replied. “Urs says he loves me but doesn’t really. He only loves me because I look like Aimee. I might not like Marius but at least he‘s stopped me from making a fool of myself.”

“So is that why you lied to Urs?” Abigail asked. “Is that why you told him you didn’t love him? Again, I might add.”

“What else could I say?” Kristina replied, faintly. “I didn’t have much choice. I love him but there’s no way I’m going to spend the rest of my life with a man who’s in love with another woman.”

“Tyler seems to be prepared to do it.” Abigail replied, quickly. “If he can be with you, knowing how you feel about Urs, what’s to stop you from telling Urs that you know about Aimee? Who’s to say that in time he may fall in love with you?”

“I’m fed up with what ifs and maybes, Abigail.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “I really like Tyler, he’s a good man. All I want to do right now is forget about Urs.”

“Easier said than done.” Abigail replied, glancing at her sister. “I just hope you know what you’re doing.”

“I do.” Kristina said, as they stepped out of the elevator and walked along the hall way to Abigail and Carlos’ apartment.

The young woman stepped out of the elevator and walked in the opposite direction to Abigail and Kristina.

She looked at the piece of paper in her hand and checked the number on the door. She had the right apartment. She knocked on the door and waited for an answer.

“Oh my God!” Urs exclaimed, opening the door. “Julianna, what are you doing here?” he said, as he threw his arms around the young woman.

“Now is that anyway to greet your sister?” she replied.

***** CHAPTER 73 *****

“Come in, come in.” Urs said, ushering Julianna in to the room. “What are you doing here? I thought you were in Los Angeles. When did you get here? Why didn’t you let me know you were coming?”

“Don’t you ever stop to breathe?” Julianna said, quietly laughing at her brother. “If you stop talking for a minute I might be able to tell you.”

“Sorry.” Urs said, grinning, “I just can’t believe it, my little Julz is here!”

“Oh Urs, please don’t call me that.” Julianna said, cringing at the nick name he had for her. “You do realise that you’re the only one that still calls me that.”

“I know but I love the look on your face when I say it.” Urs said, chuckling. “Just be thankful no one else is here to hear me say it. But come on, what are you doing here?”

“Well, as you know I was working in L.A. on a movie but amazingly we finished it a week early.” Julianna replied. “Then a couple of days ago I got a phone call from Alice Roi. She’s a fashion designer that I met when I was in New York, doing make up for some fashion shows. But anyway, she phoned to say that she’s got her first fashion show here in London and she wants me to be the make up artist. So I thought while I was here I would come and see what you’re up to.”

“Well whatever the reason, it’s great to see you.” Urs said, hugging Julianna.

“You too.” Julianna said, hugging him back. “So is Saskia not here?”

“No, she‘s working late again.” Urs replied.

“How is she?” Julianna asked. “I haven’t spoken to her for quite some time.”

“She’s been working long hours but she‘s doing fine.” Urs replied. “There’s talk of one of the partners retiring and I think Saskia’s hoping they might offer her a partnership. She deserves it she’s done a lot for them. I’m sure she’ll be home soon then you two can catch up on all the gossip. Come to think of it where are you staying?”

“I booked myself in to a hotel.” Julianna replied. “I didn’t want to show up uninvited.”

“Julianna, you’re my sister, I’m hardly going to chuck you out on the streets.” Urs said, sitting down. “You know you can stay here. We’ll go and get your bags later.”

“Thanks Urs.” Julianna replied. “But are you sure Saskia wont mind?”

“Are you kidding?” Urs said, laughing. “She’ll be pleased to see you. You know what you two are like when you get together. I might as well be invisible when you two start talking.”

“Awww does Ursy feel left out.” Julianna said, jokingly, as she sat down next to him and ruffled his hair.

“Hey watch the hair.” Urs said, ducking as he tried to avoid Julianna.

“Yeah, what’s the with the hair?” Julianna asked. “Where did all the curls go?”

“They’re still there.” Urs replied, smoothing his hair down. “They’re just under control now. It’s all part of our image.”

“It’s all part of our image.” Julianna mimicked. “A real celebrity now, aren’t you!”

“We can hardly call ourselves celebrities.” Urs said, leaning back on the sofa. “We haven’t even recorded the album yet.”

“So when’s that going to happen?” Julianna asked. “I’m longing to hear what you sound like.”

“I‘m not sure, we’re still working on the songs.” Urs said, smiling. “But you’ll have to come down to the studio sometime. You can hear us rehearse and then I can introduce you to the guys at the same time.”

“That sounds great! So what are the other guys like?” Julianna asked. “Do you get on with them?”

“They’re nice guys.” Urs replied. “It was hard at first but…but things are getting easier now that we know each other a little better.”

“Everything’s okay, isn’t it Urs?” Julianna said, noticing the look on Urs’ face. “You do like being part of the group, don’t you?”

“I love being part of the group.” Urs said, adamantly. “But… but there was something I wasn’t planning on when I joined.”

“And what’s that?” Julianna asked, concerned at what might be troubling him.

“Kristina.” Urs replied.

“Kristina? THE Kristina?” Julianna said, trying to sound surprised. Julianna could only assume that Kristina was the woman she had seen in the elevator a short time ago. She had overheard most of their conversation and heard both Urs’ and Marius’ names mentioned. It had to be her. Julianna had never met Kristina but she knew all about her. She knew how Urs felt about her and how she had broken Urs’ heart when she told him she didn’t love him.

“She’s here?” Julianna asked.

“She’s our publicist.” Urs said, nodding. “Simon even gave her an office in our building.”

“I think I might have just seen her in the elevator.” Julianna said. “What does she look like?”

“Long blonde hair, blue eyes, fair skin.” Urs replied. “She was wearing a grey trouser suit with a pale pink blouse.”

“Then it’s her I saw.” Julianna said, nodding. “She’s very pretty.”

Urs was silent, he was deep in thought. Kristina must be visiting her sister. Urs started to think about what he had told Kristina earlier that morning, admitting to her that he still cared for her, that he might still be in love with her. He wondered if she still cared for him.

“Urs? Has something happened?” Julianna asked, when Urs didn’t reply. “Is everything alright?”

“Where do I start?” Urs said, sighing.

****************

Angie was nervous. David had phoned her last night and they had arranged a date for this evening. Angie had no idea where they were going but that was the least of her worries. She didn’t know a thing about David, other than the information that Simon had provided her with. What on earth would they talk about?

She could hear her heels clicking on the hardwood floor as she paced back and forth. Every now and then Angie would hear footsteps in the hall outside and she would stop, thinking it might be David. But the noise would pass, Angie would check her hair in the mirror before going back to pacing up and down.

Angie nearly jumped out of her skin when David finally knocked on her door. She looked at her watch, he was a couple of minutes early. She smoothed down her dress and checked her hair one last time before slowly and calmly walking to the door.

“Okay breathe, Angie.” she mumbled. “Calm down, it’s just a date, you’ve been on dates before… yeah but they’ve never been this good looking. Okay stop it, you‘re making it worse… it’s just a meal, two people having a meal. Everything will be fine… who am I kidding? I’m in big trouble.”

Angie opened the door and there stood David in the hallway.

“Hi Angie.” David said softly.

David thought Angie looked stunning. She was wearing a wine coloured knee length dress and her long brown hair was tied back loosely.

“Hi David.” Angie replied, smiling.

David looked amazing. He was wearing a neatly pressed black suit with a white shirt. Angie couldn’t help noticing he wasn’t wearing a tie and her eyes drifted to the open collar, staring at the bare skin.

“These… these are for you.” David said nervously, as he held out a small bouquet of brightly coloured red, pink and orange daisies. “I hope you like them.” he said, blushing slightly. “Kristina told me that you like daisies.”

“I love daisies.” Angie said, genuinely surprised that David had bought her flowers. “Thank you but you didn’t have to do that.”

“I wanted to.” David said, as he shoved in his hands in his pockets, nervously shuffling his feet on the floor.

“Why don’t you come in for a moment.” Angie said, stepping back from the door. “I’ll just put these in water.”

David stepped inside and closed the door behind him. Angie certainly wasn’t expecting David to bring her flowers, it had been a long time since anyone had bought her flowers. She quickly put the flowers in some water and went back to the hallway where she found David, still waiting for her.

“Did you want a drink before we leave?” Angie asked. “Or are you ready to go?”

“We should probably make a move.” David replied. “The table’s booked for 8 o’clock. Do you like Italian?”

“To be honest, I’ve never tried it but I’m sure I’ll love it.” Angie replied, her stomach growling as she suddenly realised how hungry she was. “Let me just get my jacket.”

Angie picked up her jacket and was about to put it on when David stepped towards her and took it from her.

“Here, let me help.” he said, softly as he walked behind her and held her jacket out as Angie eased her arms in to it. Angie caught her breath as his fingers lightly grazed her skin. He gently rested his hands on her shoulders before whispering, “Ready?”

Angie nodded. “Yes. Are you?”

“Well actually, there was something that I needed to tell you.” David said, pausing in the doorway.

“Oh? What is it?” Angie asked, a little worried that things were off to a bad start.

“I think you should know that I’m really nervous.” he mumbled.

“Seriously?” Angie said, laughing. “You’re not the only one.”

“You’re nervous too?” David said, surprised.

“Like you wouldn’t believe.” Angie said, sighing with relief.

Angie and David soon arrived at the restaurant, Le Strega. David had been talking to Tyler earlier and he suggested taking Angie there. Angie loved it, it felt homey and unpretentious, and looked very romantic with soft lighting and candles. They were greeted by the head waiter who then led them to a small table at the back of the restaurant. David pulled out a chair for Angie and they sat down, the waiter left them but not before leaving them a menu each.

When their meals arrived, they began to relax and soon found themselves talking without a care in the world. Every now and then their knees would bump under the table. Neither of them said anything but they both glanced at each other, blushing and then lowering their eyes. They ordered dessert and Angie tried not to think about the fact that the evening was almost over.

“This is so good, you’ve got to taste it.” David said, holding his fork out to Angie. “You don’t know what you’re missing until you try this.”

Angie leant forward and steadied David’s hand, closing her eyes as she opened her mouth and took a bite. Angie still had her eyes closed, while holding his hand and eating the dessert but she could hear David shifting in his seat and couldn’t help smiling to herself.

“Mmm you’re right.” Angie replied, opening her eyes to see David staring at her, his mouth slightly open. “This is good.”

David swallowed hard and took a deep breathe, trying to get the images he had of Angie out of his head.

They sat in silence for a moment, looking at each other until the waiter bought them the bill. David paid the bill and they stepped out in to the cool evening air.

“How about a walk?” David asked. “I don’t know about you but I think I ate a little too much. I need to walk off a few calories, I think I’m putting on weight.”

“You look great to me.” Angie laughed, then blushed when she realised what she had said.

“Thanks. You look great too.” David replied, as he took Angie’s hand, making her blush even more.

David and Angie went for a short walk, commenting on things in the shop windows they passed, and David occasionally squeezed Angie’s hand and smiled at her. Angie smiled back, wishing that tonight could go on a little longer, she didn’t want to say goodnight to him. As they crossed the street and headed back to the car, David slid his arm around Angie’s waist, pulling her close to his side. Angie was about to thank David for the meal but as she turned to face him, he covered her mouth with his and gently kissed her.

“Sorry but I’ve been wanting to do that all evening.” David said, quietly laughing at the look of surprise on her face. “I‘ve really enjoyed this evening, have you?”

Angie was speechless and more than a little breathless. She nodded. David was still quietly laughing to himself as they got in the car and made their way back to Angie’s apartment.

“I’d love to do this again.” David said, as he pulled up outside Angie’s apartment block.

“I’d like that.” Angie replied, relieved to hear that David wanted to see her again.

David breathed a sigh of relief, running his hand through his hair.

“Worried I was going to say no?” Angie asked, seeing the look on his face.

“Yeah something like that.” David said, smiling.

David walked Angie to her front door, both of them wondering what would happen when it came to saying goodnight. Angie took out her keys and started to fiddle with the lock, her hand was shaking. David covered her hand with his and put the key in the lock for her.

“Thanks, I’ve been having problems with this for a while.” Angie said, jokingly. “I really should think about getting it fixed.”

David smiled at her, knowingly but didn’t say anything.

“Did… did you want to come in?” Angie asked, nervously as she opened the door.

“I’d better not.” David replied. “Tomorrow’s going to be a long day. But I did have a wonderful time tonight.”

“Me too.” Angie said, smiling. “Thanks for a lovely evening.”

“It was my pleasure.” David said, nervously fidgeting, unsure of what to say or do next.

Angie couldn’t take it any more. If he can do I can do it, she thought to herself and without giving it another thought she stood on tip toe and put her arms around David’s neck and kissed him. David instantly put his arms around her waist and pulled her closer and kissed her back, soft yet powerful.

“Wow.” Angie murmured, as he pulled away.

“I was thinking the same thing.” David whispered.

Angie and David stood in silence for a few seconds. David was debating whether he should accept Angie’s offer to go inside. He was definitely tempted but he knew that if he did things would probably move way too fast and he didn’t want to rush things. Angie was an incredible woman and he didn’t want to scare her off.

“I should go.” David said, reluctantly letting go of Angie. “I’ll call you tomorrow if that’s alright, maybe we can meet up for lunch.”

“Lunch sounds good.” Angie said, stepping back from David. “And thanks again for tonight. I had a lovely time.”

Angie watched as David walked down the hall and disappeared around the corner. Tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough for Angie as she went inside, got undressed and went to bed, thinking of her evening with David.

**** CHAPTER 74 *****

“So have you any idea what this friend looks like?” Carlos asked, as he looked down in to the street from Simon’s office window.

“Haven’t got a clue.” Sebastien replied, resting his forehead on the window.

Carlos looked at his watch.

“What time was she supposed to be here? I was hoping to be home by now and I’m starting to get hungry.”

“She was supposed to have been here an hour ago.” Sebastien said, sighing. “If you’re hungry we can always order takeaway.”

“I don’t think Simon would be pleased when he shows up for work tomorrow and is greeted with the smell of left over curry and chips.” Carlos said, chuckling.

“No I don’t suppose he would.” Sebastien said, changing the subject as he ran his fingers through his hair. “Maybe we should have offered to meet her tomorrow instead.”

“Why don’t we go home?” Carlos suggested. “We can leave a message at the front desk and leave your mobile number with them. Have you tried calling your friend?”

“I’m such an idiot.” Sebastien said, taking his mobile out of his pocket. “Why didn’t I do that earlier?”

Carlos shook his head and sighed as Sebastien started dialling.

“I sometimes wonder about you, Seb.” Carlos said, as he sat down in Simon’s black leather chair and started to spin himself round, listening to Sebastien talk in French. A few minutes later Sebastien closed his mobile and put it back in his pocket.

“Well, I now know that her name is Laura and she phoned him just before I called.” Sebastien said, sitting in the chair opposite Carlos. “Apparently her flight was delayed but she’s in a taxi and on her way here now. She shouldn’t be long.”

“Great.” Carlos replied. “Maybe I should call Abby, she will be wondering where I’ve got to.”

“She’s probably still busy chatting with Kristina to worry about you.” Sebastien said, grinning as he leant back in the chair and put his feet up on the desk. “You know what women are like and sisters are worse.”

“I think you’re wrong.” Carlos said, taking his mobile out of his jacket. “I should give her a call.”

*****************

Sebastien was right. Abigail and Kristina had been talking non stop since getting to the apartment. They spoke to each other every day on the phone but nothing was as good as having a proper chat and laughing and joking with your sister. They were starting to get hungry and had given up waiting for Carlos, so in the end they decided to order Chinese food.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” Abigail asked. “You seem… different.”

“Do we have to talk about this now?” Kristina asked, not really wanting to talk about Urs again.

“We haven’t had a proper chat in days.” Abigail replied. “I just want to make sure you’re okay. I still can’t believe Marius told you to stay away from Urs. He had no right coming to see you.”

“I’m fine, honestly.” Kristina replied. “I’d rather not talk about him if you don’t mind.”

“I’m sorry.” Abigail said, placing a hand on Kristina’s arm. “I’m just worried about you.”

“I know.” Kristina said, smiling at her sister. “And I appreciate it, really I do. But I just want to put it all behind me now.”

The two continued to eat in silence but after a few minutes Abigail spoke.

“So come on, give me details.” Abigail said, smirking. “What was the date like with Tyler? Is he a good kisser?”

“It wasn’t a proper date and who said I kissed him?” Kristina said, trying to act surprised. “I never said I kissed him.”

“You did though, didn’t you.” Abigail said, grinning.

“I might have.” Kristina said, blushing when she remembered how she had kissed Tyler.

“You little rascal.” Abigail said, quietly laughing.

“It was just one kiss.” Kristina replied, smiling at Abigail.

“But I take it this means that you’re moving on.” Abigail said. “Kissing Tyler.”

“I’m trying to.” Kristina replied, smiling weakly. “But it’s hard, seeing Urs everyday and knowing that everything I believed in for the last four years was all a lie.”

“Do you think that you and Tyler can make a go of things?” Abigail asked, lowering her voice. “And can you really forget Urs?”

“I have to, Abigail.” Kristina said, pushing the food around on her plate. “I’ve wasted too much time already, I just want to get on with my life. I think Tyler could be good for me and I really like him.”

“Well I hope things work out for you both.” Abigail said, leaning across to hug her sister. “You deserve to have some happiness in your life.”

“Thanks Abigail.” Kristina said, hugging her sister.

Kristina’s mobile then started to ring and as she took it out of her bag Abigail’s mobile started to ring. The two sisters looked at the displays, then at each other and started to laugh.

“Tyler.” Kristina said, smiling.

“Carlos.” Abigail said, also smiling.

“Hi Tyler.” Kristina said, still smiling.

“Hi Kristina.” Tyler replied.

“How’s your father?” she asked. “Did you manage to get things sorted out?”

“My father’s fine.” Tyler replied. “And yes, I think we’re getting there. If things go to plan then it could mean good news, for you and me.”

“You and me?” Kristina said, confused. “What is it?”

“I don’t want to say too much just now, I‘m still in the meeting but we‘ve got a short break.” Tyler said, lowering his voice. “I can’t stop thinking about you, I needed to hear your voice.”

“It’s a good job you’re not here to see me blush.” Kristina said, smiling to herself.

“I can see we’re not only going to have to work on that smile of yours but we’re also going to have to work on you blushing.” Tyler said, softly. “You need to get used to men paying you compliments. But not just any man… me.”

Kristina couldn’t stop herself from grinning and blushing again. Even though Abigail was still on the phone to Carlos she could still see her sister looking the happiest she had been for a long time.

“I bet you’re blushing even more now.” Tyler said, softly. “I think I might need to pay you some extra special attention.”

“It sounds like fun but if you don’t stop, I think I’m going to burn up.” Kristina said, giggling.

“Okay I’ll stop it… for now.” Tyler said, a smile evident in his voice. “Kristina I really need to go now, they’re going back in to the meeting.”

“Oh, okay.” Kristina said, trying to hide the disappointment in her voice. “I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

“I can’t wait.” Tyler whispered down the phone. “Sweet dreams, beautiful.”

“Goodnight Tyler.” Kristina said, still smiling.

As she hung up the phone she saw Abigail staring at her.

“What?” she asked, smirking.

“Did I say anything?” Abigail said, grinning.

“You didn‘t need to.” Kristina replied. “The look on your face says it all. So when‘s Carlos coming home?”

“He said he’s going to be there a little while longer.” Abigail replied. “I hope he doesn’t wear himself out, working all these long hours.”

“I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Kristina said, putting her jacket on. “Carlos is a sensible man; he knows how to handle himself.”

“I know, you’re right.” Abigail said, hugging her sister. “Thanks for keeping me company tonight.”

“That’s alright.” Kristina said, picking up her bag. “I’ve missed doing this.”

“We‘ll have to do it more often.” Abigail said, following her sister to the door.

“It’s a deal.” Kristina replied. “I’ll call you tomorrow sometime.”

“Make sure you text me just to let me know you’ve got home safely, okay?” Abigail said, as she opened the door.

“Yes mom.” Kristina said, saluting at Abigail. “Goodnight sis.”

“Nite Kristina.”

*****************

Julianna had been sitting in silence listening to Urs tell her everything that had happened with Kristina over the last few weeks. The arguments, calling a truce, Kristina admitting she did love him but lied and then Urs admitting to Kristina that he thought he might still be in love with her. Julianna didn’t know what to say. She daren’t mention to Urs what she had overheard in the elevator between Kristina and the other woman, who she now knew was Abigail, her sister. Urs had told Julianna that Marius was in London and it just so happened that he was staying in the same hotel. Julianna decided to see Marius first and find out what he knew about Kristina before saying anything to Urs. There might be something that she didn’t know and she might have misunderstood what Kristina and her sister were talking about. She didn’t want to make things worse for Urs.

“I’m sorry for talking so long, Julianna.” Urs said, sighing. “But you and Marius are the only ones that know about Krissy and I know Marius is a good friend but he never has a good word to say about Krissy. Sometimes I just want someone who will listen to me and not criticise everything I say or do, or feel.”

“That’s alright, Urs.” Julianna replied. “You know you can tell me anything and I won’t judge you.”

“Thanks Julianna.” Urs said, hugging his sister. “Now, did you want to get and get your bags from the hotel before it gets too late?”

“Sure.” Julianna said, getting up from her seat. “Just let me get my jacket and my bag.”

Urs got up from the sofa and picked up the car keys, and stood at the door, waiting.

“Got everything?” Urs asked, as he opened the door.

“Yep.” Julianna replied, walking out in to the hall.

Urs closed the door and turned to head towards the elevator, when he was sure he saw Kristina step in to it.

“Stay here!” Urs told Julianna, before rushing down the hallway. “Krissy, wait!”

Kristina’s heart almost stopped when she heard Urs calling her. She desperately stabbed at the button to close the doors, hoping and praying that Urs wouldn’t make it in time. But Urs slipped through them just as they as they were closing and Kristina quickly stepped back, moving away from him.

“Anyone would think you’re avoiding me.” Urs said, jokingly.

“You catch on quick.” Kristina replied, coldly. “So why don’t you take the hint and leave me alone.” She really didn’t need this. She should’ve been with Tyler tonight and now here she was with Urs.

“That was a bit uncalled for.” Urs said, frowning. “Have I said something to offend you?”

As soon as Urs said those words, Kristina felt racked with guilt. Urs was right, it was uncalled for but she had to make him believe that she wasn’t interested in him anymore. It was the only way she had any chance of getting over how she felt about him.

“Have you forgotten what you said to me this morning?” Kristina asked.

“Of course I haven’t forgotten.” Urs replied. “Why do you think I’m here now?”

Kristina didn’t reply. She was beginning to feel uncomfortable being around Urs and that was something she never thought would happen.

“We didn’t get to finish our conversation this morning.” Urs continued. “I think there are still a few things that we need to talk about.”

“There’s nothing else to talk about, Urs.” Kristina replied. “You told me that you think you still love me but I’m telling you I’m not in love with you. Now why don‘t you go back to your girlfriend. You do remember Saskia, don‘t you?”

“There’s no need to be like that, Krissy.” Urs said, stepping closer to her. “We’re only talking, we haven’t done anything wrong.”

“Well it feels wrong to me.” Kristina replied. “You shouldn’t be talking this way.”

“That’s what I like about you, Krissy.” Urs said, smiling. “Your sense of loyalty and honesty.”

Kristina felt awful. Here Urs was, talking about loyalty and honesty and yet she was lying to him.

“Urs, please stop it.” Kristina said, her voice almost breaking. “You’re not helping.”

“Helping? I’m sorry, I don’t understand.” Urs said. “What do you mean?”

“I meant you’re not making things any easier for yourself.” Kristina replied. “You shouldn’t say any more. Nothing’s ever going to happen between us. If we were meant to be together don’t you think it would’ve happened by now?”

“Maybe it’s bad timing.” Urs replied. “It could still happen.”

Kristina shook her head.

“You’re forgetting one thing, Urs; one very important thing.” Kristina said, trying to sound confident. “I don’t love you.”

“If you keep telling yourself that, you might actually start to believe it one day, Krissy.” Urs said, looking at her. “You can’t deny that we had something special. You still feel something too.”

“And exactly how do you know that?” Kristina asked. “You’re psychic all of a sudden are you? You can read people’s minds?”

Urs stepped even closer to Kristina and she felt her breathing start to quicken.

“Have you forgotten your time in Paris?” he asked, softly. “You once thought I could read minds. Your mind. You said I knew how you felt, what you were thinking.”

Kristina hadn’t forgotten. She thought about her time in Paris every day. Waking to find Urs asleep in the chair beside her bed, the soft dark curls framing his angelic face as he slept, the blanket around his waist, his toned chest and strong shoulders forever etched in her mind. Kristina turned her head away from Urs and closed her eyes, she couldn’t look at him. If she continued to look at him, she might just break down and cry and tell him the truth, that she loved him.

“Paris was a long time ago, Urs.” she replied. “People change and…”

The elevator suddenly jolted and came to a halt. Kristina instantly looked at Urs accusingly, thinking he might have hit the emergency stop button again. Urs knew what she was thinking and held his hands up.

“I didn’t touch it, I swear.”

Kristina couldn’t believe this was happening. Stuck in an elevator with Urs, things couldn’t get much worse.

Urs on the other hand was thankful for the time alone with Kristina. Maybe they would finally get things sorted out.

A voice then came out over a small intercom in the lift. It was the doorman from downstairs, informing them that maintenance would be there in a few minutes. Kristina gave a small sigh of relief.

“So are you saying that you don’t feel anything for me?” Urs continued. “Nothing at all?”

“I… I like you but that’s all, Urs.” Kristina said, as she made her hands in to fists, digging her fingernails in to the palms of her hands.

“I don’t understand you, Krissy.” Urs said, shaking his head. “I just don’t get it. You tell me out of the blue that you used to love me. Why tell me something like that?”

“I… I just thought you should know.” Kristina said, desperately trying to think of an answer. “I didn’t want you to think that I never loved you.”

“So you’d rather have me know that you did love me but not anymore.” Urs said, sounding annoyed. “Well, thanks a lot Krissy. You sure know how to confuse a man.”

“How am I confusing you?” Kristina asked, surprised.

“I don’t know if I’m coming or going, Krissy. I begged you to tell me you loved me and you refused.” Urs replied, angrily. “You told me you didn’t love me, you said you never wanted to see me again.”

“But I was with David then.” Kristina replied, starting to get equally annoyed with Urs. “Put yourself in my shoes. I was doing what I thought was right at the time. I loved you but I loved David too. I couldn’t just end the relationship after one meeting with you.”

“One meeting? So it was love at first sight for you too?” Urs asked.

“I thought so at the time.” she replied. “But I know differently now.”

“Okay, so you fell in love with me in New York.” Urs said. “Yet you came to Paris and then let me come to New York and you still wouldn’t admit it. You still wouldn’t tell me the truth.”

“You don’t understand, Urs.” Kristina replied. “I wanted to tell…”

“Damn right I don’t understand!” Urs said, raising his voice. “I just needed to hear you say it. I just had to know that you loved me as much as I loved you.”

“You don’t know how much I wanted to tell you, Urs.” Kristina said weakly. “I hated myself for lying to you.”

“Well forgive me if I don’t believe you.” Urs snapped. “But I don’t know if I can ever believe anything that comes from your mouth. I don‘t know when you‘re telling the truth or when you‘re lying any more.”

“You’re calling me a liar?” Kristina said in disbelief. “I’m not the one who lies! You‘re such a hypocrite!”

“What do you mean by that?” Urs yelled. “I’ve never lied to you.”

“Oh forget it.” Kristina replied, folding her arms across her chest. “I’m not playing these silly games anymore. Just leave it.”

“Like hell I am!” Urs said, grabbing her by the arms. “You’re the one who started this. You’re the one who brought it all up by telling me you loved me. When have I ever lied to you? When? Tell me?”

If Urs wasn’t going to admit why he had feelings for her, then there was no way on earth that Kristina was going to bring up the subject of Aimee and what Marius had told her.

“I told you to forget it.” Kristina snapped. “If you don’t know what I’m talking about then I guess you’re more stupid than I thought.”

“What the hell do you want from me, Krissy? Blood?” he hissed, his eyes now blazing with anger. “I did everything you asked me to do. I left you alone, I didn’t come back. I didn’t contact you, I let you get on with your life.”

Urs’ voice was starting to get louder, Kristina tried to pull away from him but he still had a grip on her arms. In the end she was backed in to the corner of the elevator.

“I loved you more than anyone I’ve ever loved before.” Urs continued. “I would’ve done anything for you, all you had to do was say the word. But you didn’t want to know. You sent me away, telling me we could never see each other again. Well I did as you asked and you almost destroyed me when you turned me away. Now I finally get my life back on track, you show up and it starts all over again.”

“I’m sorry Urs… I… I never meant for all this to happen I…”

Kristina didn’t get to finish her sentence as Urs clasped her face in his hands kissing her fiercely. With clenched fists, Kristina gave a half hearted attempt at pushing Urs away. She knew it was wrong, she was now with Tyler and Urs was with Saskia but as Urs continued to kiss her, all thoughts of Saskia and Tyler vanished. Kristina was lost in the moment, she didn’t care about anything or anyone, only Urs; as she unclenched her fists and slid her hands over his chest and around his neck, kissing him eagerly. That’s when Kristina felt Urs change, his kiss was now soft and gentle but still demanding.

Urs couldn’t believe it, he was finally kissing her. He was finally kissing Kristina. He started taking in everything about her, her scent, her touch, the way her body reacted to his. Urs lowered his hands from Kristina’s face and wrapped them around her waist, pulling her close to him as she threaded her fingers through his hair. Urs kissed her hungrily and parted her lips with his tongue, Kristina gave a small moan as his tongue caressed hers. This is how it should’ve been all those years ago, he thought to himself.

***** CHAPTER 75 *****

Kristina trembled as Urs’ kisses moved from her mouth, to her jaw and then her neck. Urs pulled away slightly but only long enough to slide her jacket off and let it fall to the floor. Kristina closed her eyes and leant her head back against the wall as Urs continued to kiss her neck and started to undo the buttons on her blouse. Kristina couldn’t move, she was hypnotised by his touch as Urs slipped her blouse off one shoulder, gently nipping at the bare skin, tracing his tongue along her collarbone, the cool air making her skin tingle.

“Krissy… ” Urs murmured, as he ran a hand down her back, drawing her hips closer to his. “I still love you, Krissy.”

Kristina’s breath became slow and heavy, as she felt Urs’ body pressed against hers. She sighed deeply as Urs slipped a hand up under the back of her blouse, his fingertips gently grazing the skin of her back, his hand lightly tracing the curves of her waist before slowly trailing upwards.

“Urs I… ” she said faintly, unable to think clearly, his wandering hands too much of a distraction, as they continued their journey upwards.

“Tell me you love me.” Urs whispered in to her ear. “Say it, Krissy.”

She tried to push away again but she couldn’t find the strength to do so.

“No Urs… no, I…” she mumbled, before his lips found hers once again, silencing her. Kristina softly moaned in to his mouth, matching each thrust of his tongue with one of her own.

Kristina was lost between reality and fantasy, was it really happening or was she dreaming? If it was a dream, then she didn’t want to be woken but what if it was real? What was she doing? Kristina had never felt this strongly about any man before and she wanted him so much it scared her. Urs made her feel alive, like her body had been asleep these last four years. Kristina didn’t recognise herself, she was acting like a different person, not thinking of the consequences, she felt young and reckless. Was she really about to make love to Urs in an elevator of all places? No, it couldn‘t happen, not like this, not ever.

Kristina tried to pull away but each time she did, Urs pulled her closer to him.

“Krissy, you can‘t deny it.” Urs whispered softly in her ear. “We’re in love.”

What was she doing? What were they doing? This was all wrong. Urs didn’t love her, he only thought he did, it had to stop and now. Kristina tried to push away from Urs but his grip was firm.

“Urs… please….” Kristina was struggling to speak, Urs’ hands were still too much of a distraction for her and her mind was a blur.

“Urs… no, please….” she said, regaining some control. “…please we can’t do this.”

“Krissy.” Urs murmured, as he ran his hands back up under her blouse. “I love you.”

Kristina couldn’t take any more. Why was he doing this? Why here? Why now? He kept saying her name but all the time, in the back of her mind, Kristina knew he was really thinking of Aimee. If she let this continue she would just be letting Urs use her. She was dragged back to reality and suddenly found her strength and her voice as she pushed Urs off her.

“STOP IT!” she cried, just as the elevator jolted and started to move again.

Urs staggered back as Kristina pushed him away, not quite sure what had happened. He looked in to her eyes and saw sadness, anger and disappointment. Did he really misread the signals? Did she really not love him anymore?

“Why?” she said, crying, as she fumbled with the buttons on her blouse. “Why did you do that?”

“I… I love you, Krissy.” Urs stuttered. “And I thought you loved me.”

“I told you I didn’t.” Kristina said, almost choking on her reply as she bent down and picked up her jacket. “And yet you still kissed me and… and…”

Kristina couldn’t speak, her tears making it impossible.

“But you kissed me back.” Urs said, moving closer to Kristina, wanting to comfort her. “It’s obvious you still love me.”

“Stay away from me!” Kristina said, still crying. “And I don’t love you. It was just a kiss, Urs. A stupid kiss.”

Kristina couldn’t believe she’d let herself get carried away like that. Urs kissing her had made things a hundred times worse. How was she supposed to forget him now? Knowing what he did to her, how he made her body react to his touch made things unbearable.

“I’ll never love you.” Kristina spat. “I… I hate you!”

“Krissy don‘t talk that way.” Urs said in disbelief, holding a hand out to her. “Please, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean for it to happen.”

“Don’t touch me.” she cried, stepping back from him. “Just leave me alone, I never want to speak to you again.”

The doors then opened and before Urs could say another word Kristina hurried out of the elevator, rushing past the two maintenance men and a stunned Saskia.

“What’s wrong with her?” Saskia asked, as she watched Kristina disappear through the doors and in to the street.

“She… the lift, it got stuck…” Urs stuttered. “I think she’s claustrophobic.”

“Oh, well maybe you should go after her.” Saskia said, looking at Urs. “She looked upset, you can’t let her go home like that.”

Urs stood there, not knowing what to do. If he went after Kristina he would probably make things ten times worse and he didn’t want to cause a scene in front of Saskia. But if he didn’t follow her, would she think he didn’t care? She couldn’t be more wrong. Kristina had found her way back in to his heart but now he had turned her against him.

***** CHAPTER 76 *****

Urs and Saskia stepped out of the elevator and walked along the hall towards their apartment. That’s when Saskia spotted Julianna, who had been patiently waiting for Urs.

“Julianna!” she exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”

“I came to make sure my big brother was behaving himself.” Julianna replied, as she hugged Saskia, and glanced at Urs over her shoulder. “And to see you of course.” she added.

Urs looked down at the floor, knowing full well that Julianna would want to know what had happened with Kristina.

“So what are you doing standing outside here?” Saskia asked. “You haven’t been waiting for us have you?”

“No I… I.” Julianna looked at Urs.

“Julianna checked in to a hotel but I said she could stay here.” Urs interrupted. “I said we’d go and get her bags and we were on our way downstairs. But she missed the elevator and then it got stuck and then….well, you know the rest.”

“Oh okay, well what do you want to do?” Saskia asked. “Do you two still want to go the hotel and I’ll order takeaway for when you get back?”

“Sounds good to me.” Julianna replied. “I’m starving.”

“Well, let’s get going.” Urs said, quickly kissing Saskia on the lips. “We won’t be long.”

Julianna and Urs decided to take the stairs; they remained silent until they reached the car. Urs sighed as he got in to the car and put his seat belt on. Julianna had no idea what had happened in the elevator with Kristina but she could sense that something was troubling Urs.

“Want to talk about it?” she asked, cautiously.

“I’m sure you’ve heard enough of my problems today.” Urs said, jokingly.

“Urs, you know you can tell me anything.” Julianna said, putting her seat belt on. “I’ll always listen.”

Urs didn’t reply, he put the keys in the ignition and started the engine.

“Urs?”

“I’m sorry, Julianna.” Urs replied, giving a small smile. “But I’d rather not talk about it, at least not right now.”

“Okay.” Julianna said, reassuringly. “Whenever you’re ready.”

***************

“Seb, I know you said you didn’t know what Laura looks like but do you think this could be her?” Carlos said, looking out the window.

Sebastien got up out of his chair and walked over to the window. When he looked down he saw a young woman, walking up the steps and heading towards the main entrance.

“Could be.” he replied, as the woman disappeared out of sight.

“Should we go downstairs?” Carlos asked, looking at Sebastien.

“No, I told security that we were expecting her.” Sebastien replied, walking away from the window. “If it is her, they will call us and let us know.”

Carlos and Sebastien sat back down in their chairs. Only a couple of minutes had passed before Simon‘s phone rang. It was security.

“She’s here.” Sebastien said, putting the phone down. “She’s on her way up now.”

While they were waiting for Laura to arrive, Carlos started to fidget in his seat. He had been desperate to find out what was in the report, hoping that what ever was in it would put his mind at rest. But now that the moment was here, he was scared at what he might find out. What if it was bad news? What if Brian was somehow involved in Jeanette’s death? What would he tell Abigail? Should he tell her at all? He didn’t want to worry her but if Brian was serious about the threats that he had made to Abigail and he was capable of murder, then she had a right to know that she might be in danger.

“Are you alright?” Sebastien asked, noticing the pained look on Carlos’ face.

“I‘m nervous.” Carlos said, his eyebrows furrowed with worry. “What if… what if he has something to do with her death?”

“I’m sure he hasn’t.” Sebastien said, reassuringly. “But if he has, well… at least we know what we’re dealing with. But try not worry, Laura will be here any second and then…”

Sebastien was interrupted by a knock at the door.

“That will be her.” Sebastien said, getting up from his chair. “Are you ready?”

Carlos nodded and Sebastien went to open the door.

Sebastien was left speechless as he opened the door. He hasn’t realised just how beautiful Laura was, when he had seen her from the window a few minutes before. She was dressed casually in trainers, jeans and a pale blue jumper.. Her long jet black hair was styled in a sleek ponytail, pulled up and away from her delicately featured face. Sebastien was truly mesmerised by her.

“Hi, are you Sebastien?” Laura asked, cheerily. Sebastien didn’t reply. Why was this man looking at her so strangely? Perhaps she had come to the wrong office. “This is Mr Cowell’s office, isn’t it?” she added, when she still had no response from Sebastien.

Carlos got up from his seat and went over to the door.

“Forgive my friend’s manners.” Carlos said, holding his hand out to Laura. “But he’s French.”

Laura smiled nervously, not sure if she was supposed to laugh at the comment.

“I‘m Carlos and this is Sebastien.” Carlos said, slapping Sebastien on the back, trying to get some response from him. But Sebastien stood motionless.

“Nice to meet you, Carlos.” Laura replied, shaking his hand. “And it’s nice to finally meet you, Sebastien.” Laura said, holding her hand out to Sebastien.

Sebastien was still staring at Laura as he held his hand out.

“I’m French.” he mumbled.

“Does he speak English?” Laura asked, after shaking Sebastien’s hand but still not getting any reply.

“Yes, he speaks English.” Carlos replied.

“Well, is he okay?” Laura asked, beginning to blush under the constant gaze of Sebastien. “He’s very quiet.”

“That happens now and again.” Carlos replied. “He gets a little tongue tied when he meets a beautiful woman. But I must admit he’s never been this quiet.” Carlos added, wiggling his eyebrows at Laura, who was now a dark shade of pink.

“Where are my manners?” Carlos said, suddenly remembering the reason why Laura was here. “Please come in.”

Laura entered the room and Carlos gestured for her to sit down.

“Sebastien?”

Sebastien looked at Carlos, a blank look on his face.

“Are you going to sit down?” Carlos asked.

“Huh? What?” Sebastien mumbled.

“Sit!” Carlos said, pointing to a chair.

Sebastien did as he was told and wandered over the chair and sat down, not taking his eyes off Laura for a second. She was everything he had imagined the perfect woman to be. She was like a phenomenon, stunning and intriguing.

Laura bent down and pulled an envelope out of a bag, first looking at Sebastien, then Carlos.

“Who should I give this to?” she asked, holding out the envelope.

“Maybe I should take it.” Carlos replied, looking at Sebastien. “It doesn’t look as if we’ll get anything out of him.”

Carlos took the envelope from Laura and looked at it, unsure if he should open it. Laura could sense his apprehension.

“Perhaps you would like to open it in private.” she said, getting up from her seat. “I should really get going. I asked the taxi driver to wait as I still need to check in to my hotel and I have an early start tomorrow. I have an interview at a dance school.”

Carlos got up from his seat.

“Well, good luck for tomorrow and I really appreciate you coming here, Laura.” he said, kissing her on the cheek. “And I know Sebastien would like to thank you too.”

Laura looked at Sebastien, who actually managed to smile at her.

“Well perhaps when he finds his voice again when we can all meet up again.” Laura replied, picking up her bags. “I’ve written my mobile number on the back of the envelope.”

“I’ll be sure to call you.” Carlos said, showing her to the door. “And thanks again.”

“My pleasure.” Laura said, opening the door. “Goodnight Sebastien.”

“Night.” came the faint reply from Sebastien.

When Laura left, Carlos closed the door and turned to face Sebastien.

“What’s the matter with you, Seb?” Carlos said, giving him a gentle shake.

Sebastien didn’t answer. He walked across to the window and looked down in to the street, waiting for Laura to reappear. He watched as she walked towards the waiting taxi. Laura looked up at the window and waved. Sebastien gave a small wave back.

“You know she thinks you’re crazy.” Carlos said, when he saw Sebastien waving.

“No she doesn’t.” Sebastien replied. “She likes me.”

“Oh?” Carlos said, raising his eyebrows. “And how do you know that?”

“I just do.” Sebastien replied, as he watched the taxi disappear down the street. “I just do.”

“Well seeing as you’re back in the land of the living perhaps you would like to read this report for me.” Carlos said, holding out the envelope to Sebastien. “It’s all in French.”

“Here, let me have a look.” Sebastien said, with a serious look on his face, as he took the envelope from Carlos and began to read it.

***** CHAPTER 77 *****

As soon as Kristina had walked through her front door, she sent a text Abigail to let her know she was home safely, before going straight to bed. She was tired but found it impossible to sleep, tossing and turning. Each time she closed her eyes, her thoughts drifted to Urs and the kiss they shared in the elevator.

Kristina had dreamt of Urs so many times before that she had lost count. She would often lie there, imagining what it would feel like to be held in his arms as he kissed her. But nothing had prepared her for the feelings and emotions that would come from one kiss with Urs. Every time Kristina moved she was sure that she could smell his scent on her, and each time it would bring back images of Urs, she could hear his voice telling her that he loved her, over and over again. Kristina couldn’t take it anymore. There was no way she was going to be able to get to sleep while she could still smell him on her. She got out of bed and went to the bathroom and turned on the shower. When the water was warm enough, Kristina slipped off her nightshirt and stepped into the shower. She started to wash, making sure that every trace of Urs was gone. If only it was as easy to forget about Urs, as it was washing his scent from her body. She closed her eyes and raised her fingers to her lips, they still felt swollen from his harsh kisses. She wrapped her arms around herself, remembering how Urs had held her tightly, his warm breath tickling her neck. Tears started to fall again and she wondered if she would ever be able to forget about Urs. After kissing him earlier that night, it now seemed impossible.

*************

“What does it say?” Carlos asked, impatiently.

“Nothing out of the ordinary.” Sebastien replied, placing the report on the desk. “I can’t see anything in there for you to be worried about, Carlos. She died from a severe head injury but they think it was an accident. There’s nothing to suggest foul play.”

“But are they looking for anyone?” Carlos asked, getting up from his seat, and picking up the report. “A woman doesn’t just happen to die on the same day her house is burgled.”

“They’re still looking for who ever broke in to her house.” Sebastien replied, picking up his jacket. “But according to that report, there was some kind of struggle and she fell, hitting her head. They’ve no reason to think it was premeditated. I don‘t think Brian had anything to do with it. I think it was just an accident.”

“Are you sure?” Carlos asked, still a little worried. “It has Brian’s name in here. Why?”

“There’s nothing to be worried about.” Sebastien replied. “His name’s there because he was interviewed by the police. He’s her neighbour, they questioned him to see if he had any information but there was nothing he could tell them.”

Carlos sighed with relief, as he sat down in the leather chair.

“Did you want me to take that back to my apartment?” Sebastien asked, picking up the police report. “You don’t want Abigail to find it.”

“Thanks Sebastien.” Carlos replied, smiling and feeling a little happier. “I hadn’t thought of that. Will you thank your friend for me?”

“Of course I will.” Sebastien said, patting his friend on the back. “I’m just relieved that we have nothing to worry about.”

“Me too.” Carlos replied. “If Brian had something to do with Jeanette’s death, I don’t know how I would’ve told Abigail.”

“Come on.” Sebastien said, guiding Carlos to the door. “You need to get home to your wife.”

Carlos and Sebastien left Simon’s office and made their way back to the apartment block.

*********

Abigail had just put her mobile down, after receiving Kristina’s text, when the front door opened.

“Hey, I didn’t think you were coming home.” Abigail said, smiling as she walked towards Carlos. “I was going to send out a search party.”

“And not come home to my beautiful wife?” Carlos said, taking her in to his arms. “Now why would you think that?”

“Well, you just seem preoccupied these last few days.” Abigail said, a little worriedly. “Everything’s alright isn’t it?”

“Everything’s perfect.” Carlos said, bending down and giving his wife a gentle kiss. “I admit I have had a few things on my mind but everything’s alright now.”

“What was wrong?” Abigail asked. “If something’s worrying you, you know you can always tell me.”

“It was nothing, Abby.” Carlos said, running his fingers through her long dark hair. “Don’t worry.”

“As long as you’re sure.” Abigail said, resting her head against his chest. “We always said we would never keep secrets from each other.”

Carlos naturally felt a little guilty, by not telling Abigail about his concerns over Brian. He had never kept secrets from Abigail but this was different. He loved Abigail and would do anything to keep her safe and happy. He didn’t’ want her to worry about Brian, especially as Sebastien said they had nothing to worry about. There didn’t seem any point in bring up bad memories for Abigail.

“I’m sure.” Carlos said, kissing the top of her head. “And I’m sorry if you think I’ve been neglecting you.”

“I never said that.” Abigail replied. “I said you seemed preoccupied.”

“It’s the same thing to me.” Carlos said, pulling away from Abigail and slipping off his jacket. “And I’m sorry. I want to make it up to you.”

“Oh?” Abigail said, a smirk appearing on her face. “And how do you plan on doing that?”

“That’s up to you.” Carlos said, wiggling his eyebrows at her. “I promised to love, honour and obey you when I married you, so your wish is my command.”

“Well, in that case, come with me.” Abigail said, taking his hand and leading him to the bedroom.

“Just what did you have in mind?” Carlos asked, as he closed the door, trying to look innocent.

“Don’t look at me like that.” Abigail said, giggling as she pushed him back on the bed. “The innocent look really doesn’t suit you.”

“I don’t know what you mean.” Carlos said, as Abigail ran her hands over his chest before starting to undo the buttons on his shirt. “I’m as pure as the driven snow.”

“Well maybe I should stop now then.” Abigail said, sitting up. “I wouldn’t want to corrupt your innocent mind.”

“Too late for that, I’m afraid.” he growled, quickly grabbing Abigail and rolling her over on to her back. “You’ve already corrupted me, so don‘t stop now.”

*************

While Carlos was honouring his marriage vows, Kristina was not the only one having problems sleeping. Urs was also having trouble, his guilty conscience keeping him awake. Every time he closed his eyes, he was struck with images of Kristina, the look on her face when he kissed her, when he touched her, the way her body had reacted to his touch. He could still remember the feelings that shot through his body when she ran her fingers through his hair, and her hands over his chest. It was like a bolt of lightening. Urs had been telling Kristina the truth; when he told her that he truly hadn’t meant to kiss her. Yet deep down he was glad he did, he was no longer confused about his feelings for her anymore. He loved her. The only thing that was bothering Urs, was that he also loved Saskia. He knew he had to do something about the situation he had gotten himself in to. He knew he should be honest with Saskia but he didn’t want to hurt her.

“Urs?”

Urs jumped and turned to see Julianna standing behind him.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.” Julianna said, as she sat down next to him. “I couldn’t sleep, it must be the whole time zone thing. It’s still early back in L.A.”

Urs smiled weakly.

“That’s ok.” he replied. “I’m sure you’ll soon get used to it.”

Julianna looked at her brother; she could tell that something was still bothering him.

“Are you having problems sleeping too?” Julianna asked.

Urs nodded but didn’t speak.

“Are you ready to talk about it yet?” she said, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“I don’t know.” Urs replied. “I’m not sure I would know where to start.”

“Did something happen with Kristina?” Julianna asked. “You’ve been acting odd ever since the two of you were stuck in that elevator.”

Urs looked at Julianna.

“You’re not going to like it.” Urs said, frowning.

“Did you two argue again?” she asked.

“Not at first.” Urs replied. “Kristina didn’t seem too pleased to see me but we talked. I can‘t even remember how it began but we started to argue. She called me a liar.”

“A liar?” Julianna said, confused. “Why would she call you a liar?”

“I’ve no idea.” Urs replied. “I asked her what she meant by it but she refused to tell me.”

“So what happened next?” Julianna said, leaning back on the couch.

“Well, we started to argue and then… and then…” Urs shook his head. “She made me so mad and I just wanted her to answer me but… I don’t know what happened. One minute we were arguing and the next thing I know, we’re kissing.”

“Kissing?” Julianna said, genuinely surprised. “You kissed Kristina? Even though you’re with Saskia?”

“I told you, you wouldn’t like it.” Urs replied. “I couldn’t help it, it just happened.”

“And what about Kristina?” Julianna said, curious to know what her response to Urs kissing her would be, especially after what she had heard Kristina say in the elevator.

“She kissed me back.” Urs said, as he lowered his eyes to the floor. “And it wasn’t just any kiss. I’ve never been kissed by anyone like that before, with that much… feeling and emotion. It was something different, something… special between us.”

“Urs, what are you saying?” Julianna asked.

“I’m saying that… no matter how hard you try to get over someone, you can never forget them, not completely.” Urs said, as he looked up at Julianna. “You can’t help but still have feelings for them. You can’t help wishing that you could turn back the clock and do everything differently, wondering what your life would be like if you were together.”

Julianna remained silent and let Urs continue.

“Time is supposed to make things better, isn’t it.” Urs said, sighing heavily. “Time is supposed to be a great healer but it’s not, not where love is concerned. We haven’t seen each other for four years but I never stopped thinking about her, Julianna. I always wondered what she was doing, if she was alright, if she was happy.”

“I thought you were over Kristina, Urs.” Julianna said, softly. “You haven’t spoken about her for such a long time. Why didn’t you tell me how you felt, Urs?”

“There didn’t seem much point.” Urs replied. “The only thing that would’ve made things right, was for Kristina to tell me she loved me.”

“And what about now?” Julianna asked. “Do you still love her?”

Urs nodded.

“I know I shouldn’t but I can’t help it.” Urs said, rubbing his forehead. “I guess once you love someone, there’s no going back. Because once you have loved someone, it doesn’t go away, it stays with you forever. It doesn’t matter if they don’t love you anymore.”

“Did Kristina say that?” Julianna asked. “Did she tell you she didn’t love you anymore?”

“She said she hated me.” Urs replied, faintly. “But I’m sure she’s lying.”

“Why would she lie?” Julianna asked; wondering if Kristina had mentioned what Marius had told her earlier. “If she loves you, why doesn’t she just tell you?”

“I don’t know.” Urs replied. “There’s no reason for her to lie anymore.”

“Urs, I understand that you must be… confused.” Julianna said, placing a hand on his shoulder. “But you need to think about what you’re saying….do you love Saskia?”

“Of course I love Saskia.” Urs said, adamantly. “But…”

“But what, Urs?” Julianna asked.

“But I love Kristina too.” Urs replied.

“But Kristina doesn’t love you, Urs.” Julianna said, regretfully. “You have to think sensibly about this. She doesn’t love you, she told you that herself. You’re going to have to face the truth Urs. You and Kristina, it’s never going to happen. You have a wonderful relationship with Saskia. You don’t want to ruin that do you?”

Urs shook his head.

“You’ve done it once before and I’m sure you can do it again. Forget about her.” Julianna said, firmly, “Just give it a little more time and you’ll soon forget about what happened tonight and you’ll soon forget about Kristina.”

Urs smiled weakly at his sister. He knew she was only trying to help but there was no way he would be able to forget about Kristina, not after the kiss they had shared. His only predicament now was Saskia. Was he being fair on her? Should he stay with Saskia, a woman who loved him and who he loved? Or should he go after Kristina, a woman who he loved but who on numerous occasions had told him she didn’t love him? Yet she had lied once before, and who’s to say she wasn’t lying now?

Unknown to Urs and Julianna; Saskia had been woken by their talking and had overheard the majority of their conversation. She crept back in to bed and pulled the covers up over her, quietly crying. Urs had kissed Kristina. Saskia had no idea what to do. If she confronted Urs about it, then it might cause an argument and he might leave her. But then she wasn’t about to be used and she certainly wasn’t about to let another woman steal her boyfriend from right under her nose. There was only one thing she could do. Confront Kristina again.

***** CHAPTER 78 *****

Breakfast had been a difficult time. Julianna felt uncomfortable knowing about Urs’ dilemma, Urs felt guilt ridden after kissing Kristina and Saskia was still trying to come to terms with what she had overheard the night before. No one had mentioned the tense atmosphere, for fear of starting a discussion on matters that no one was prepared to talk about.

After Urs and Saskia had left for work, Julianna decided to pay Marius a visit. Even though Urs had told her that Kristina no longer loved him, she was still curious to know what had been going on between Marius and Kristina and what exactly he had said to her. Julianna had arrived at the hotel Marius was staying in, but was told that there was no answer and he must be out. Julianna was about to get in to a taxi and make her way back to Urs’ apartment, when she saw Marius approaching the hotel on foot. She quickly apologised to the driver and followed Marius inside the hotel.

“Marius!” she called out, as she hurried across the lobby after him.

Marius turned around and looked at Julianna. It was several seconds before he realised who it was.

“Julianna? What on earth are you doing in London?” he asked, grinning as he walked towards her and hugged her. “Urs didn’t tell me you were coming.”

“He didn’t know.” Julianna replied. “I only arrived last night.”

“You look good.” Marius said, stepping back and looking at her. “You must love the American way of life.

“It has it’s ups and downs.” Julianna replied. “But I love my job so I just go wherever the work takes me.”

“Well, how long are you here for?” Marius asked, guiding her to the elevator. “Are you here on work now or do you have some free time?”

“I’ve just finished a movie.” Julianna said, as she followed Marius and several other people in to the elevator. “But now I have a friend here in London who’s having a fashion show soon and she wants me to do the make up. After that, who knows!”

“Well, you’re not doing anything now are you?” Marius asked. “It would be great to catch up and hear about what you’ve been up to.”

“No, I’ve got the whole day to myself.” Julianna replied. “But what about you? What are you doing here?” Julianna asked, casually. “I couldn’t believe it when Urs told me that you were in London.”

“Why don’t we wait until we get to my room.” Marius replied. “We can talk in private.”

It wasn’t long before Marius and Julianna were in his room, chatting about family and work and what they had been doing since they last saw each other.

“Actually Marius, there was a reason why I came to see you.” Julianna said. “Urs has told me what’s been happening with Kristina but I want to know how you got involved.”

“Me? I don’t know what you mean.” Marius lied.

“You don’t have to pretend with me, Marius.” Julianna replied. “When I arrived at Urs’ apartment last night, I shared an elevator with Kristina and her sister. I didn’t realise who she was at the time but I overheard their conversation and your name was mentioned.”

“What… what did they say?” Marius asked, warily.

“Why did you tell Kristina that she looked liked Aimee?” Julianna asked, frowning. “The two of them couldn’t be more different.”

“You don’t know what she’s like.” Marius replied, a look of disapproval appearing on his face. “As soon as Urs got the part in Il Divo, she showed up again. She probably heard about it through work and somehow managed to get the job of being their publicist. She’s only after his money.”

“How can you be so sure?” Julianna asked. “Did she tell you this?”

“Of course not.” Marius replied. “She’s not stupid. She’s hardly going to admit that to anyone is she! That would ruin her little plan.”

“But Urs, he’s really taken with her.” Julianna said. “He’s usually such a good judge of character.”

“She’s got him wrapped around her little finger.” Marius sneered. “He’ll do anything for her. Believe me, it’s for his own good.”

“But I don’t understand.” Julianna said, thoughtfully. “She might be after his money now but what about when they first met. Urs didn’t have money back then but the two of them seemed to have something special. From what I could make out, the only reason she wasn’t with Urs was because she already had a boyfriend.”

“Yes, she was with David, another member of Il Divo.” Marius said, still sneering. “His career was just starting to take off. He had connections with a woman who was well known in the industry. She was hardly going to give that all up for Urs, who was still an unknown.”

“But she’s not with him anymore.” Julianna said. “So what’s stopping her now?”

“No, she’s moved on to bigger and better things now.” Marius replied. “Urs told me that she’s started dating some guy called Tyler. He’s the other publicist that she’s working with. He just happens to be the boss’ son. It’s all about money with her.”

Julianna wasn’t sure what to think. From what Urs had told her about Kristina, she hadn’t got the impression that she was someone who was stringing him along and only after his money. But then if what Marius said was true, Urs was hardly going to know what she was up to. Julianna thought about the conversation between Kristina and Abigail. It still didn’t make sense. Why would Marius tell her that the only reason Urs was interested in her was because she looked like Aimee? Surely if Kristina was after money, this would be something to her advantage.

Julianna wasn’t entirely convinced that Marius was telling her the truth but didn’t see any reason as to why he would lie to her. Julianna decided not to ask any more questions and she certainly wasn’t going to mention any of this to Urs. He was already confused enough. But what if Kristina genuinely loved Urs and the only reason she denied loving him was because of what Marius had told her? She had already confessed to Urs that she loved him once. Maybe she still did. Perhaps she should talk to Kristina.

***************
It had been a week since Kristina and Urs had kissed. In that time, Kristina had found herself slipping back in to her usual routine, the early starts at work, missed lunch breaks, sleepless nights. She had managed to avoid everyone; that included Urs and Saskia. There was no way she could talk to Urs and she couldn‘t look Saskia in the eye, knowing that she had kissed Urs. Kristina had always been busy on the phone, out looking for venues or meeting with clients when people had tried to talk to her. She worked continuously and even tried to stay at work late in the evening so that she didn’t have to go home to an empty house. But that was one thing that Tyler wouldn’t let her do.

Tyler had noticed that something was bothering her and he tried several times to talk to her about it but Kristina insisted that nothing was wrong. Tyler could only assume that it was something to do with Urs, so he did all he could to keep her occupied and take her mind off whatever was troubling her. That meant not leaving her side, not letting her be alone to mull over her thoughts. As soon as work was over, Tyler insisted driving her home. He would then take her out for dinner or sometimes they would stay in and he would cook them both a meal. Kristina was reluctant at first but the more time she spent with Tyler, the more she relaxed she became and she found herself thinking of Urs less and less.

Tyler let Kristina do a lot of the work over the phones, contacting venues and media sources while Tyler volunteered to do any work that needed direct involvement with the Divo’s.

Kristina was touched by Tyler’s thoughtfulness and concern for her. Over the last few days they had become very close and they seemed to have an unspoken understanding between them. Kristina knew of Tyler’s intentions towards her but he made it clear that he wasn’t going to rush her in to anything she wasn’t ready for.

Kristina did something that she hadn’t done for several years. She found herself thinking of what her future might be like; not with Urs but with Tyler. This was something she had never even considered before. Kristina had been alone for so long that she daren’t think of what the future held for her. But now she had Tyler and suddenly she didn’t feel so scared any more.

“Penny for your thoughts!”

Kristina looked over her shoulder and saw Tyler. She was lucky to find someone like him, who was willing to wait, who was prepared to be patient while she dealt with her feelings for Urs. But she couldn’t help feeling as if she had abused his trust and his kindness. She hadn’t told him about the kiss with Urs. If she did it would ruin their relationship and that was the last thing she wanted.

“Keep your pennies.” Kristina replied, sighing. “They’re not worth it.”

“Oh I’m sure that’s not true.” Tyler said, as walked up behind her and he slipped his arms around her waist, lightly resting his chin on her shoulder. “But if you don’t want pennies, how about a nickel?” he whispered.

“A nickel?” Kristina asked, quietly laughing. “What are you talking about?”

“You haven’t heard the song by Tavares?” Tyler asked. “I must admit, it’s an old one.”

“No, sing it to me.” Kristina said, leaning her head back on his shoulder. “I want to hear it.”

“Oh you don’t want to hear me sing.” Tyler said, chuckling. “I’m awful.”

“Oh go on, please.” Kristina said, smiling sweetly at Tyler.

“How can I say no.” he said, smiling at her.

Tyler started to sing softly.

“I’ve got to know where I stand, I’ve just got to know where I am with you, so here’s a penny for your thoughts, a nickel for a kiss, a dime if you tell me that you love me, walking holding hands you say you’re mine, all mine, then soon another face steals your eyes away, it’s just a guessing game, and I can’t help feeling used…”

Penny for Your Thoughts by Tavares https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOoOxnGpf3E

Tyler suddenly stopped singing.

“What’s wrong?” Kristina asked, as she turned around in his arms. “Why did you stop singing? You’ve got a great voice.”

“I’m sorry, the words…” Tyler stuttered. “I didn’t think…”

Kristina was silent for a few seconds before speaking.

“Do the words bother you that much?” she asked. “Do you think I’m using you?”

“No!” Tyler exclaimed. “No I don’t think that for one minute. But you can’t help thinking about the situation we’re in, the words… it kind of relates to us.”

“Is this going to work between us?” Kristina said, looking up Tyler. “I really want it to but if you’re having any doubts…”

“Oh no, you’re not getting away from me that easily.” Tyler said, brushing a stray hair back from her face. “In fact I came here to tell you something; something important.”

Kristina couldn’t begin to imagine what Tyler was going to tell her.

“I’ve just had a phone call from my father.” Tyler continued. “Do you remember the meeting my father wanted me to attend the other night?”

“Was that when you had to cancel our date?” Kristina asked, smirking.

“That’s the one.” Tyler replied. “But I promised I’d make it up to you. And I think I have the perfect solution.”

“Come on then tell me.” Kristina said, now anxious to know what he had in mind. “I’m longing to know.”

“Well, the meeting was about buying out an American company that‘s been losing money.” Tyler replied. “It’s another company like this one, doing publicist work but my father is convinced he can make a go of it. I couldn’t say anything at the time as nothing was certain.”

“And now?” Kristina asked.

“And my father has just signed the papers. It’s official. We now own another company in New York.” Tyler replied, smiling. “Isn’t that great?”

“Yes, that’s great news.” Kristina replied, smiling.

“You haven’t heard the best bit.” Tyler said, smiling even more. “My father wants me to manage it. He wants me to go to New York.”

“Oh… that’s wonderful.” Kristina said, trying to hide the disappointment in her voice.

But Tyler noticed the look on her face.

“You don’t look very happy.” Tyler said, frowning. “I thought you’d be pleased.”

“I am pleased, really.” Kristina lied. “I just thought, I mean… you and me…”

“What?” Tyler said, looking at Kristina. “You don’t think I’m going alone, do you? I want you to come with me. I want us both to move to New York and run the company.”

Kristina was speechless. He wanted her to go to New York with him? Could she really do that? Why not! This could be the moment she had been waiting for. This could be what she needed, moving back home, seeing her friends, her family, familiar surroundings, somewhere she felt safe. But it meant leaving her sister.

“Come on Kristina.” Tyler said, encouragingly. “It’s a great opportunity for us. You wanted to go home and now’s your chance. You can still do your dream job. And it would be great for the two of us, a fresh start, away from… ”

“Away from Urs?” Kristina finished. Tyler didn’t reply. “It’s okay.” Kristina said, smiling. “I think it’s a great idea. And you’re right. The two of us, back home, together in New York.”

“So you’ll come?” Tyler asked.

“Yes.” Kristina replied. “But don’t tell anyone just yet. I want to tell my sister first. I don’t want her finding out from someone else.”

“I won’t say a word. I promise.” he said, hugging her tightly. “It’s going be great.”

“So when were you planning on leaving?” Kristina asked, pulling away from Tyler. “I guess there are still lots of things to arrange.”

“Well, not really.” Tyler replied. “All the papers have been signed. The deal was completed this morning. I think my father was hoping we would be there by the end of the month.”

“The end of the month?” Kristina said, shocked. “But that’s… that’s only two weeks away.”

“If you don’t want to go...” Tyler started to say.

“No, no I want to go.” Kristina replied. “I just wasn‘t planning on it being so soon.”

“Are you sure?” Tyler asked. “We can always delay it for a while.”

“No, I’m sure.” Kristina replied. “Two weeks is fine.”

Kristina sighed as she rested her head against Tyler’s chest. In two weeks she could start a new life back home with Tyler and away from Urs. Kristina felt as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Things were finally looking up for her.

***** CHAPTER 79 *****

Saskia had been trying to see Kristina all week but each time she went to see her, she was with Tyler; or Lilly would inform her that she was out or on an important phone call. Saskia was busy enough with her own work whilst trying to secure a place as a partner with the firm, so she couldn’t devote as much time to keeping track of Kristina’s movements as she would like. But this morning, Saskia had seen Tyler leave the Sony offices and when she went to see Kristina, Lilly told her she was alone. This was the perfect moment.

“Are you busy?” Saskia said, as she opened the door and briskly walked in to Kristina’s office.

Kristina didn’t have a chance to reply.

“Good, I didn‘t think so.” Saskia said, as she closed the door and walked towards Kristina. “You and me need to talk.”

“I’m a bit busy…” Kristina started to say.

“This won’t take long.” Saskia said, sitting down opposite her.

“What did you want to talk about?” Kristina asked, taken aback by Saskia‘s abruptness towards her.

“We’re both grown women, Kristina.” Saskia said, crossing her legs and straightening her skirt. “There’s no need for us to play games. You know why I‘m here.”

“I’m not sure I do.” Kristina said, truthfully. She had no idea if Saskia knew about the kiss and surely Urs wouldn’t have told her. But her suspicions were soon confirmed.

“I know what happened the other night.” Saskia replied. “I know you kissed Urs.”

“I… I don’t know what…” Kristina stuttered.

“Don’t you dare try denying it.” Saskia spat.

“I… I wasn’t going to.” Kristina lied. “But how… how did you…”

“How did I find out?” Saskia said. “I heard it from Urs himself.”

“Urs told you?” Kristina said, surprised.

“No, he didn’t tell me.” Saskia replied. “I overheard him telling his sister. He doesn’t know I know and you’re not going to tell him either. It was just one kiss and I don’t plan on letting this break us up. I want you to stay away from him.”

“That’s what I’ve been trying to do all week.” Kristina said defensively. “Maybe you should have a word with him because I don’t want to have anything more to do with him.”

“I don‘t believe that for a minute.” Saskia snapped. “You must think I‘m blind, I‘ve seen the way you look at him.

“I think you need your eyesight tested, Saskia.” Kristina said, getting annoyed. “Urs doesn’t mean a thing to me. And just to set the record straight, I didn’t kiss him, he kissed me.”

“From what I heard, you didn’t put up much of a struggle.” Saskia hissed. “He said you kissed him back. I‘m sure Tyler would be very interested to hear what you’ve been up to.”

“This has got nothing to do with Tyler.” Kristina snapped. “He doesn’t need to know.”

“Well as long as you stay away from Urs, you’ve got nothing to worry about.” Saskia said, getting up from her seat. “But there’s one last thing before I go.”

“What’s that?” Kristina asked, standing up.

Kristina didn’t have time to react, as Saskia slapped her across the face.

“What the hell was that for?” Kristina said, putting her hand to her cheek which was now stinging.

“Just a little reminder.” Saskia said, smiling. “Stay away from him.”

Kristina stood behind her desk, still in shock, but anger slowly building, as Saskia calmly walked out of her office and quietly closed the door. This was all Urs’ fault. Admittedly she kissed him back, but Urs was the one who had kissed her, it was his fault that Saskia knew about the kiss, yet she seemed to be the only guilty party in all of this. Urs was doing a great job of making her forget how much she loved him. The sooner she could leave London the better.

**************

Later that morning, after Kristina had calmed down from her meeting with Saskia, Kristina had somehow managed to get through her regular meeting with Simon, letting him know how their plans were going. Angie had informed Simon of Kristina’s plans to leave for New York and had been disappointed to hear she was leaving after being there such a short time. But he had been understanding and respected her decision to go back home. Abigail was making her way back to the office when she saw her sister.

“Abigail! I wasn’t expecting to see you today.” Kristina commented, when she saw her sister in the hallway. “I take it you’re here to see Carlos.”

“Who else!” Abigail said, smiling. “We just had lunch together, I was about to leave. But while I’m here, there was something I wanted to run by you first.”

“Okay, let’s go in my office.” Kristina said, leading the way.

Kristina closed her office door and the two of them sat down.

“Before I start, I wanted to talk to you about New York.” Abigail said. “I know it’s useless trying to talk you out of leaving London but I want to make sure you’re doing the right thing and for the right reasons.”

“Abigail, we’ve been through this already and...” Kristina started to say.

“I know, I know but can you blame me?” Abigail said, pouting. “My big sister is going to leave me all alone in a foreign country.”

“Abigail.” Kristina said, laughing. “You can hardly call London a foreign country, it‘s your second home. And I‘m not leaving you all alone. You‘ve got friends here but most importantly you‘ve got Carlos.”

“I know but it’s not the same.” Abigail said, sighing. “Why can’t you stay here in London? You shouldn’t have to leave just because Urs couldn’t keep his hands to himself.”

“It’s not like that.” Kristina replied. “I’ve explained all about the company in New York. I want to go. I want to be with Tyler.”

“I’m not denying that Tyler’s a lovely man, Kristina.” Abigail said, reassuringly. “But don’t you think this is all happening rather quickly? You’ve only known him a couple of weeks and now you’re planning on leaving the country with him.”

“Do I need to remind you about you and Carlos?” Kristina said, raising her eyebrows. “You moved to Spain with him when you had only met two days previously.”

“That’s different.” Abigail replied. “We’d been talking online for months before we met face to face.”

“True.” Kristina agreed. “But for all you knew, he could’ve been some crazed axe murderer.”

“Okay enough about me and Carlos. I just don’t want you to do something you might regret.” Abigail said, smiling at her sister. “You came to London to start a new life and forget about Urs. But now he’s here and it’s almost like you’re running away.”

“Maybe I am. But believe me when I say this is what I want.” Kristina replied. “I admit that I said yes to Tyler without giving it any real thought. But the more and more I think about it, I know it’s the best thing to do. There’s no way I will be able to forget about Urs, having to see him everyday. In New York, I‘ll still be doing a job I love, I‘ll be back home and I know Tyler can make me happy.”

“But do you love him?” Abigail asked.

“I never said I love him, Abigail.” Kristina replied. “And Tyler knows that but who knows, maybe in time I will.”

“I’m not going to change your mind, am I?” Abigail said, reluctantly.

“Sorry but my mind’s made up.” Kristina said, shaking her head. “I’m going to New York.”

“In that case then, I want to do some thing for you.” Abigail replied.

“Oh? What did you have in mind?” Kristina asked.

“Well, as you know it’s my birthday next week.” Abigail replied. “Carlos thought it would be a good idea if we had a party, we all need to have some fun. They’ve been working so hard just lately.”

“Sounds like a good idea to me.” Kristina said, with a nod of agreement.

“So if you’re set on going to New York, then I thought we could make it in to a leaving party as well for you. And Tyler of course.” Abigail continued. “How about it? One big party.”

“I don’t know, Abigail.” Kristina said, a little embarrassed. “It’s your birthday. I don’t want to make a big thing out of my leaving. It‘s not like you‘re never going to see me again!”

“I know.” Abigail replied. “But I thought it might be fun. Just think of all the leaving presents you‘ll get from everyone.”

“Abigail, you’re terrible.” Kristina said, giggling. “But I’m guessing you’re not going to change your mind about this. You’re just as stubborn as me.”

“Got it in one.” Abigail said, grinning. “There’s lots to do before next week, so I’m going to need your help.”

“Just how big is this party going to be?” Kristina asked, raising her eyebrows. “I do have work to do you know.”

“You need to let your hair down once in a while.” Abigail replied. “What are you doing for the rest of this afternoon?”

“Well I still have to check on some details for the photo shoot that we’ve got planned for Italy this weekend.” Kristina said. “But I guess I could always ask Tyler nicely if he would mind seeing to it.”

“Someone say my name?” Tyler said, as he walked in to the office.

“I’m just trying to convince my sister to take a break.” Abigail replied. “We have a party to plan.”

“A party?” Tyler said, his eyes lighting up. “What for? And am I invited?”

“Well it’s a birthday party for Abigail and a leaving party for me and you.” Kristina answered. “So of course you’re invited.”

Tyler grinned as kissed Kristina on the cheek before sitting down on the corner of the desk, next to Kristina.

“I’m glad to hear it.” Tyler said. “So is there anything I can do to help?”

“You can let Kristina have the afternoon off.” Abigail said, smiling sweetly at Tyler.

“Kristina doesn’t need to ask me for time off.” Tyler replied.

“I thought you were her boss.” Abigail commented. “Doesn’t she have to do what you tell her?”

“Abigail!” Kristina exclaimed.

“Somehow I don’t think Kristina is one of those women who will let a man dictate her life.” Tyler said, chuckling.

“So that’s a yes?” Abigail asked.

“I don’t have a problem with it.” Tyler replied. “If you two want to go and hammer those credit cards, that’s nothing to do with me.”

“Great!” Abigail said, getting up from her chair. “I’ll go and let Carlos know and I’ll meet you downstairs in five minutes.”

Kristina watched as Abigail left the office and closed the door.

“Are you sure you don’t mind me taking the afternoon off?” Kristina said, getting up from her chair and walking around to where Tyler was, still sitting on the corner of the desk. “I feel guilty leaving you here alone, working, while I‘m out enjoying myself.”

“Of course I don’t mind.” Tyler replied, as he put his arms around her waist and pulled her to him. “I know how much you women love to shop and I think you could do with some retail therapy.”

“It’s not really retail therapy.” Kristina said, placing her hands on his shoulders “I’m helping to plan a party, nothing else.”

“But you’re going to need a dress aren’t you?” Tyler asked. “Something short and… sexy.”

“In case you hadn’t noticed, I don’t wear dresses.” Kristina said, smirking. “So you can put that idea right out of your head mister.”

“Please?” Tyler said, pouting. “I bet you look gorgeous wearing a dress.”

“And I don’t look gorgeous now?” Kristina said, raising her eyebrows.

“Don’t put words in my mouth.” Tyler replied, as he leant down and gently kissed her. “You look gorgeous now but I’m seriously beginning to wonder if you actually have legs.”

“Oh, I have legs.” Kristina said, wrapping her arms around his neck. “You’ll get to see them one day.”

“Is that a promise?” Tyler said, wiggling his eyebrows at her.

“You’ve been spending too much time with Carlos.” Kristina said, giggling and putting a hand over her mouth.

“Don’t do that.” Tyler said softly, as he gently took her hand and lowered it. “You know how much I like to see you smile.”

Kristina couldn’t help it, she could feel her skin change to a dark shade of pink.

“You still haven’t got the hang of accepting compliments from me, have you?” Tyler said, before kissing her hand.

“I’ll get used to it in time.” Kristina replied.

Tyler continued to look at Kristina but didn’t say anything.

“What?” she said, blushing again.

“Nothing.” he replied, smiling. “Just admiring the view.”

“I should get going.” Kristina said, stepping back from him. “Abigail will be wondering where I’ve got to.”

“Don’t I get a kiss goodbye?” Tyler asked, pulling her back to him.

“I guess one kiss won’t hurt.” Kristina said, wrapping her arms around his neck again.

“Just one?” Tyler said, leaning closer to her.

“Don’t push your luck.” Kristina said, before Tyler cupped her face in his hands and kissed her.

“Krissy we have to talk about…”

Kristina and Tyler pulled away from each other to see Urs standing in the doorway.

“Haven’t you ever heard of knocking, Urs?” Kristina snapped. “What’s the point in having a door if no-one’s going to bother using it?”

“I’m sorry… I…” Urs stuttered. “I thought you were on your own.”

“Well as you can see I’m not.” Kristina said, obviously annoyed. “And I’m just leaving so what ever it is will have to wait until tomorrow.”

Kristina turned back to face Tyler, her voice softening. “I‘ll see you later.” she said, before kissing him firmly on the lips.

“Okay, call me when you get home.” Tyler said, smiling at her.

Kristina picked up her bag and jacket and glared at Urs as she walked past him.

“Anything I can help you with, Urs?” Tyler asked, as soon as Kristina was out of sight.

“I… uhm…” Urs looked in the direction of Kristina before looking back at Tyler. “Simon said something about going to Italy this weekend.”

“That’s right.” Tyler replied. “We’ve got a photo session lined up and you’re going to be filming the video for Mama. I‘m just finalising the details now so I‘ll let you know the plans as soon as I get confirmation.”

“Okay thanks.” Urs said, quickly. “That’s all I wanted to know, I‘ve got to get back to work. See you later.”

Tyler sighed and shook his head, as Urs turned and closed the door behind him. It was obvious that something had happened between Kristina and Urs but he had no idea what. All he knew was that Kristina was seriously ticked off with Urs and she certainly didn’t seem pleased to see him. Tyler just hoped things stayed that way between them. It would make his life a whole lot easier.

Kristina hurried down the hall and stopped by the elevator. She stood there for several seconds before she decided it was safer to take the stairs. She hurried down the stairs and found her sister waiting in reception for her.

“Krissy wait!”

Kristina turned around to see Urs hurrying down the stair case. She carried on walking until she came face to face with her sister.

“I think someone wants to talk to you.” Abigail said, when she saw Urs heading in their direction.

“Well I don’t want to talk to him.” Kristina replied. “Just keep on walking.”

“Krissy wait.” Urs said, a little out of breath. “We need to talk.”

“I’ve got nothing to say to you, Urs.” Kristina said, turning away from Urs. “Will you please just leave me alone.”

“Not until we talk about what happened the other night.” Urs said, taking hold of her arm.

Kristina turned and glared at Urs.

“Let go of me.” she hissed. “Don’t ever touch me again.”

Urs let go of her arm.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, faintly. “But I really do think we need to talk.”

“Go on then.” Kristina said, turning to face Urs, her arms folded across her chest. “Say what you have to say.”

“Not here.” Urs said, glancing at Abigail. “I was hoping we could talk somewhere more private.”

“No thanks. I’ve learnt my lesson.” Kristina replied. “There’s no way I’m going anywhere with you after what happened last time.”

“Krissy…” Urs started to say, as he stepped closer.

“Don’t Krissy me.” Kristina said, stepping back. “I’ve had enough, Urs. I’ve had enough of London and I’ve had enough of you. You’re one of the reasons I’m leaving.”

“You’re leaving?” Urs said, shocked. “Because of me? Where are you going?”

“I’m going back home.” Kristina replied. “I’m going back to New York.”

“But you can’t.” Urs said, shaking his head in disbelief.

“I can and I am.” Kristina replied.

Urs couldn’t speak, he was stunned into silence by Kristina’s news. He watched as Kristina and Abigail walked out of reception.

“You okay?” Abigail asked, as she and Kristina got into a taxi.

“I’m fine.” Kristina replied, smiling at her sister before turning and looking out of the window. She nervously bit her lip as she recalled the look on Urs’ face when she told him she was leaving. She hadn’t intended on telling him that way. But she was still angry with him for kissing her and for Saskia finding out, that she couldn’t help herself. Kristina sighed heavily and leant back in the seat. She just had to make it through the next 10 days and then everything would be fine; she hoped.

***** CHAPTER 80 *****

“So what exactly did you have planned for this party?” Kristina asked, as they stepped out of the taxi. “Surely it’s just a case of arranging food and music and buying an outfit.”

“You know what I’m like, Kristina.” Abigail replied. “When I do things, I like to do them properly. I want this party to be one to remember.”

“I’m not sure I like the sound of that.” Kristina said, laughing. “That usually means trouble with you.”

Abigail grinned at Kristina, before stopping suddenly to look inside a shop window.

“What’s wrong?” Kristina asked, turning to see what her sister was looking at. “Oh no, you’re not thinking of fancy dress are you?” she said, when she saw costumes in the window.

“Oh come on, it’ll be fun!” Abigail said, peering in the window. “A chance to dress up and be silly.”

“And how many gorillas do you think are going to show up?” Kristina said, rolling her eyes.

“I don’t want anything like that.” Abigail replied. “I want something fancy like… like a masquerade ball.”

“Like a what?” Kristina said.

“A masquerade ball.” Abigail replied, her face lighting up.

“But isn’t that still fancy dress?” Kristina asked.

“Yes but it will be more classy, with fancy costumes and masks.” Abigail replied, grabbing her sisters hand. “Let’s go and have a look.”

Two hours later, and after trying on almost every outfit, Abigail and Kristina had decided on their costumes. They paid their deposits and arranged to collect their costumes on the day of the party.

“Wait until Carlos see’s his outfit.” Abigail said, giggling. “I bet he didn’t think he’d be wearing this again.”

“Well, Tyler said he wanted to see me in a dress.” Kristina said, chuckling. “I think he might be a little disappointed.”

“When he see’s what you’ll be wearing, I don’t think you’ll have any complaints from him.” Abigail said, as they left the shop and continued walking down the street. “We should think about sending invites seeing as this isn’t going to be an ordinary party anymore.”

“How many people are you planning on inviting?” Kristina asked. “And where are we going to hold it?”

“I hadn’t really thought that far ahead.” Abigail replied, quietly laughing. “I don’t know how many people Tyler knows in London but there will be my friends, your friends and then of course you’ll have to invite Simon and the guys.”

“You mean Urs?” Kristina asked, frowning at the thought of having to spend an evening with him.

“Well you can’t ignore him, Kristina.” Abigail replied. “It will make things a bit hard for Carlos if you invite the others and not Urs.”

“I guess so.” Kristina said, sighing.

“Come on, this is supposed to be fun.” Abigail said, crossing the street. “I’ve got just the thing.”

“Where are we going?” Kristina asked, as they got in to another taxi.

“I was talking to Lilly before I went to lunch with Carlos.” Abigail replied. “And she told me about this place she knows of and I made a phone call and… well, you’ll have to wait and see.”

A short time later, Kristina and Abigail got out of the taxi and made their way along a small street before Abigail stopped.

Kristina looked up at the shop front.

“Truly Scrumptious. A sweet shop?”

“We’re not here for sweets.” Abigail replied, grinning. “The woman that owns it is a fortune teller.”

“A fortune teller? Oh no, Abigail.” Kristina said, a look of horror on her face. “Please tell me we’re not going in there.”

“What?” Abigail said, turning to face her sister. “You used to read your horoscope everyday, this is no different.”

“Yes but I never believed them.” Kristina replied. “It was just a bit of fun. No one takes them seriously, you can adapt those readings to suit any situation in your life.”

“So what’s the difference between reading your horoscope and having your fortune told?” Abigail asked.

“Reading your horoscope in a daily newspaper is a little different to asking some complete stranger to predict your future.” Kristina replied. “It’s just a bit too… personal.”

“If you don‘t believe in it, then what‘s the harm?” Abigail said, smirking. “Besides, aren‘t you in the least bit curious?”

“I’d rather not know what happens in the future, thanks.” Kristina answered.

“Don’t you want to know if you and Urs are meant to be together?” Abigail asked. “You could be making the biggest mistake of your life, going to New York with Tyler.”

“Then it’s my mistake to make.” Kristina replied.

“Where’s your sense of adventure?” Abigail said, grinning. “It’s only a bit of fun.”

“I’m still not sure.” Kristina said, frowning. “But if you want…”

“I want.” Abigail replied, as she pushed her sister through the door. “You first.”

Kristina stumbled in to the shop, with Abigail following behind her.

“Can I help you?”

Kristina and Abigail came face to face with a young fragile looking woman of about twenty, with long red flowing hair.

“My name’s Suzannah.” she said, coming out from behind the counter.

“Hello, my name’s Abigail and this is my sister, Kristina.” Abigail replied. “We’re here to see Madame Endora, I called earlier.”

“Madame Endora?” muttered Kristina under her breath. “You’ve got to be kidding me, what sort of a name is that?”

“Shhh.” Abigail said, nudging Kristina. “She’ll hear you.”

“Hear me?” Kristina mumbled. “She’s predicts the future, she already knows what I’m going to say.”

“So you are not a believer then?” a voice said.

Kristina and Abigail turned to see a tall thin woman, with her short jet black hair.

“I... no, not really.” Kristina said, turning bright red. “I’m only here because of my sister.”

“So you must be Abigail.” Madame Endora said, turning to face Abigail and holding her hand out.

Abigail nodded.

“I heard about you from a friend and I was hoping you could do a reading for me.” Abigail replied, shaking her hand.

“This way.” Madame Endora said, pulling back the curtain and gesturing for Kristina and Abigail to enter the room, where they were offered a drink. Kristina and Abigail sat down and watched as Endora placed the deck of cards in the middle of the table.

“Was there anything you wanted to ask me?” Endora asked.

“Uhm… like what?” Abigail asked.

“Anything at all. It depends on the type of reading you would like.” she replied. “Is there a specific question that you need answering? Or would you like me to give you a basic reading, for the past, present and future?”

Abigail looked at Kristina.

“Well, I don’t have a question.” Abigail replied. “So I guess the past, present and future would be best.”

Endora laid the cards on the table and stared at them for several minutes before speaking again.

“You have a loving family and wonderful friends but I see you’ve had a troubled past.” she said, looking at Abigail. “You risked your life to save another. You should be proud of yourself.”

Abigail looked at Endora before smiling at Kristina, who took hold of her hand under the table and gave it a gentle squeeze. How could they forget what Abigail had done for her sister?

“You’ve come a long way to get where you are now.” Endora said, still smiling. “Again you should be proud of what you have accomplished.”

The sisters didn’t need to say anything; both of them were thinking of Brian and what Abigail had gone through before finding Carlos.

“I see a man in your life, a very special man.” she continued, turning over the second card. “One who loves you unconditionally. He plays a big part in your life. He must mean a lot to you.”

Abigail couldn’t hide the huge smile on her face as she thought of Carlos and how he helped her escape from Brian. Ever since she had met Carlos, her life had changed for the better.

Endora turned over the final card.

“I see a new beginning for you both.” Endora continued. “Something which will change your life forever but there‘s something else; something that you’ve been running away from. Something from your past is about to become your future again.” she said looking at Abigail. “You need to be on your guard.”

Abigail and Kristina looked at each other, both of them wondering what the other was thinking. Surely she couldn’t mean Brian, it had to be something else.

“Can you tell me more?” Abigail asked, worriedly.

“I don’t know anymore, I’m afraid.” Endora replied. “But just be aware, it’s something from your past that you must face again before you can be at peace.”

Abigail looked at Kristina genuinely concerned at Endora’s comment.

“Maybe you should have a reading done.” Abigail said, trying to divert the conversation away from herself.

Endora then looked at Kristina.

“No, I don’t think so.” Kristina replied, shaking her head.

“Are you sure you?” Endora asked.

Kristina had to admit she was curious about what she might say. Kristina wondered if she might mention something about Urs but she wasn’t sure she wanted to find out.

“I expect you’re very busy, we wouldn’t want to take up any more of your time.” Kristina said, politely as she stood up. “Maybe we should come back…”

“I’m not busy.” she replied. “Please… sit back down.”

Abigail and Kristina sat down again.

Endora shuffled the cars and then spread twelve cards out on the table.

“Why are there so many cards?” Kristina asked.

“It will give me more detailed answers.” she replied. “I sense that you have a lot of unanswered questions.”

It was true, Kristina did have a lot of unanswered questions, yet she didn’t think Endora would be able to answer them. But like Abigail said, what harm could it do?

“I do have one.” Kristina said, glancing at Abigail. “I… I’ve just started seeing someone…and…”

“And you want to know if he’s the one?” she asked.

Kristina already knew the answer to that question. She nervously bit her lip, as Endora turned over the first card.

“I see it as only a brief relationship.” she replied. “Maybe a year or two, no longer. You’ll be happy but there is something holding you back from committing yourself to this man.”

Kristina frowned; this wasn’t what she wanted to hear.

“There’s no need to look so worried.” she continued. “You won’t be alone; you have friends that will help you get through it. You’re a winner.”

“A winner?” Kristina said, almost choking on her drink. “I think you’ve got the wrong person. You don‘t know what I‘ve been through, I‘ve never been a winner.”

“You’re still here aren’t you?” she replied. “You overcame your illness.”

Kristina glanced at Abigail, who shook her head. Abigail hadn‘t told her. A lucky guess she thought.

“Still a non believer?” Endora asked.

Kristina blushed.

“Why did you come then?” She asked. “What are you hoping to hear?”

“I told you, I came with my sister.” she replied, fidgeting in her seat.

Endora turned over the next card.

“You’re trying to avoid pain in your life.” she continued. “But you’re denying yourself happiness at the same time.” Endora continued to turn over the cards, while Kristina remained silent and listened to what she had to say. “There is an unforeseen event which could be to your advantage but you need to be vigilant. There is an obstacle in your way, someone that prevents you from being truly happy.”

Kristina looked at Abigail. This was beginning to get a little too serious; it was only supposed to be fun.

“An unforeseen event?” Kristina said. “Is that good or bad?”

“It’s something to your benefit but you mustn’t let your pride stand in the way.” Endora replied. “You are preoccupied with something which is effecting your rational side of thinking. You are letting yourself be distracted by a passing influence, something which is not meant to be permanent.”

“Told you.” Abigail whispered to Kristina.

“Shhh.” Kristina said, before looking back at Endora.

Endora continued to turn the cards.

“I see a worldly authority, someone who will have professional success, this is where your hearts desire truly lies but I see a conflict. There are two mighty forces, fighting for possession.”

“You know who she means.” Abigail whispered.

“Abigail.” Kristina said, giving her warning look.

“There has been an injustice against you.” Endora said, as she turned over yet another card. “Someone will abuse your trust in an attempt to gain control. I see a dangerous triangle… another man, he is not to be trusted.”

“I think that’s enough.” Kristina said, quickly standing up. “I’m not sure I want to hear anymore. We really should be going.”

“Thank you for your time.” Abigail said, after getting up from her seat and started to take her purse out of her bag.

“You’re most welcome.” Endora replied. “Suzannah will take that.” she said, placing her hand on Abigail’s.

Abigail left to pay Suzannah, Kristina went to follow her.

“Wait a minute.” Endora said, getting up from her chair and making her way over to Kristina. “I didn’t want to worry your sister but you must look out for her, she could be in danger.”

“What sort of danger?” Kristina asked, shocked at her comment.

“I’m not sure.” Endora replied. “But there will be clues, you need to be alert.”

“Can I stop it from happening?” Kristina said, worriedly.

“Again, I’m not sure.” Endora replied. “I don’t know everything. I can only tell you what I see.”

“Maybe you’ve got it wrong.” Kristina said. “No one would want to hurt my sister. You’re trying to scare me, you’re making it up. It’s all part of your magic trick.”

“I don’t do magic tricks.” Endora said, sternly. “Give me your hands.”

Kristina was hesitant.

“I don’t bite.” she said, when she saw the look of uncertainty on her face. “Now give me your hands.”

Kristina held her hands out and Endora turned them over, palms facing upwards, tracing her thumbs over the lines on Kristina’s palms.

“You have a strong head on your shoulders.” she said, looking up Kristina briefly. “You should use it more often. You make business decisions every day but for some reason you can’t take control of your own life. You need to choose. Urs or Tyler?”

Kristina tried to pull her hands away but Endora held them firmly.

“How did you know their names?” she asked, in a whisper. “Did Abigail tell you?”

“Look at that line.” Endora continued, ignoring Kristina’s question. “See how indistinct and confused it is. That is your destiny. It is not yet settled, you still have time to change it. But one thing is certain; you will be married within a year.”

Kristina’s heart stopped for a split second. She would be married within a year. Images of her and Urs together instantly flashed through her mind.

“I see you’ve already chosen.” Endora said, smiling at her. “But why do I get the impression that you’re not happy with your decision?”

“I have to go.” Kristina said, pulling her hands away from Endora and hurried after her sister.

Kristina rushed through in to the small sweet shop and found Abigail talking to Suzannah.

“Are you ready to leave?” Kristina asked. Abigail nodded.

“Good, let’s get out of here.” Kristina said, opening the door. Abigail followed Kristina out in to the street.

“What happened in there?” Abigail asked. “What else did she say to you? Did she say anything else about my past?”

“It’s just a load of nonsense, Abigail.” Kristina lied. “Forget it. Now we have a party to plan. So where did you want to go to next?”

Kristina and Abigail walked along the street in silence, both thinking about what Endora had told them. Could she be telling the truth or was Kristina right. Was it all nonsense? Was Abigail in danger? Could Brian be the past that Endora had talked of? Would Kristina be married within the year? And if she was, who would her husband be? Tyler or Urs?

***** CHAPTER 81 *****

When Kristina and Abigail had left, Urs had made his way back upstairs to the studio. They had been trying to work on another song but Urs hadn’t been able to concentrate. After an hour of getting absolutely nowhere, Urs told the others he wasn’t feeling well and went back to the apartment. He walked in to the bedroom, collapsed on the bed and closed his eyes.

Kristina was leaving because of him. Did she really hate him that much that she felt she had to leave London? Everything was such a mess. How could he have been so stupid; kissing Kristina. Urs didn’t know what to think or what to do. He knew he loved Kristina but was there any point in trying to change her mind and convince her to stay? He was certain that she loved him but if she did, why would she be leaving the country? Maybe he should leave things as they were. As Julianna rightly said, he had a wonderful relationship with Saskia and he didn’t want to ruin what they had. But still, Urs couldn’t help thinking about Kristina.

**************
After leaving Endora‘s, Abigail and Kristina had wandered around aimlessly for about half an hour. Neither of them were in the mood for planning the party anymore and it wasn‘t long before they found themselves sitting in a small ice-cream parlour. They spent a while discussing, in great detail, what Endora had told them.

“What do you think she meant when she said that my past would become my future?” Abigail asked, frowning. “Do you think she was talking about Brian?”

“I don’t think so, Abigail.” Kristina said, reassuringly. “You haven’t seen Brian since you left Paris. Why would you see him now, after all these years? He has no idea where you are, you’ve got nothing to worry about. You’re safe. Carlos will make sure of that.”

“I still can’t help worrying though.” Abigail said, frowning. “What if it all means something?”

“I wouldn’t worry about it.” Kristina replied, smiling as she placed a hand over Abigail’s. “I wouldn’t believe anything she said. I told you, it’s like the horoscopes; you can read anything you want in to it.”

“I know.” Abigail said, sighing. “But… somehow, I can’t help thinking that she knew what she was talking about. Take your situation for instance. She knew that you’re in a love triangle.”

“I’m not in a love triangle!” Kristina exclaimed. “And that’s not what she said.”

“No, she said it was a ‘dangerous triangle’ and that someone wasn’t to be trusted.” Abigail said. “Do you think she means Tyler or even Urs?”

“I don’t know what to think.” Kristina replied. “But I’m not going to let it worry me.”

In the end, both of them decided that it was probably all nonsense, like Abigail said, it was just fun and they shouldn’t take it too seriously. But in the back of their minds, both Abigail and Kristina couldn’t help wondering if there was any truth in what she had said.

After saying their goodbyes, Abigail and Kristina went their separate ways. Abigail went back to the apartment and Kristina went back to work. She didn’t want to go back home, she needed to see Tyler. He had a way of making her forget everything, leaving her feeling calm and relaxed. She looked at her watch. It was five minutes to six. In the short time that Kristina had known Tyler, she knew he was a creature of habit and in a few minutes he would be leaving work. Kristina sat down on the steps outside and waited for him.

“Waiting for me?”

Kristina looked up to see Tyler.

“Of course.” she replied, as Tyler held out his hand and helped her to her feet. “I thought we could go back to yours and I’ll cook you dinner for a change.”

“That sounds nice. How did the shopping trip go?” Tyler asked. “I didn’t expect to see you back so soon.”

“We found our outfits for the party.” Kristina replied. “And I found a great one for you but you might have to go and try it on. I wasn’t sure about your size.”

“You’ve bought me an outfit?” Tyler said, with raised eyebrows.

“Not exactly.” Kristina replied. “I’ve hired you an outfit. Well, actually it’s a costume. Abigail had this idea that she wanted a Masquerade Ball so we all have to dress up. Are you okay with that?”

“I don’t have a problem with that.” Tyler said, taking Kristina’s hand. “I’ll be in good company. But are you going to tell me who I‘m dressing up as?”

“No, it will be a surprise.” Kristina said, grinning. “But you’ll look great.”

“And what will you be wearing?” Tyler asked, as he opened the car door for Kristina. “A dress I hope.”

“Sorry, no dress.” Kristina said, stepping in to the car. “But you won’t be disappointed.”

“I’m sure I won’t be.” Tyler said winking at her, before getting in to the car and starting up the engine. “So what else did you do this afternoon?”

“Not much.” Kristina replied. “Abigail decided that we should go and see a fortune teller.”

“What?” Tyler said, looking surprised.

“A fortune teller.” Kristina replied. “We had our fortune told by Madame Endora.”

“That’s her name?” Tyler said, laughing. “Madame Endora?”

“I know, that’s what I thought.” Kristina said, rolling her eyes. “You would’ve thought she could come up with something more original.”

“So what did she have to say?” Tyler asked. “Did she tell you what this weeks winning lotto numbers will be? Or did she tell you that you‘re going to meet a tall, dark handsome stranger who‘s going to whisk you off to foreign lands at the weekend?”

“Very funny.” Kristina said, playfully slapping him on the arm. “Does that mean everything’s ready for Italy?”

“Yep, I got confirmation this afternoon.” Tyler replied. “We all leave for Tropea on Friday night. I’ve already compiled the itinerary for everyone. They all know what’s happening and what time they have to be at the airport.”

“It’ll be nice to get away for couple of days.” Kristina said sighing. “I know we’ll still be working but it won’t be the same, if you know what I mean.”

“Yes, I know what you mean.” Tyler replied. “It should be an interesting couple of weeks! Italy this weekend and New York next weekend.”

“Don’t forget the Masquerade Ball.” Kristina commented. “I wasn’t too sure about it when Abigail suggested it earlier but I’m starting to look forward to it now.”

“Well, if you need any help just let me know.” Tyler said. “I don’t think I’ve told you but I have a sister, Anna. She runs a chain of big hotels but before she used to be an event organiser. She could probably put you in touch with a few people. She might even be able to help you organise it herself.”

“Do you think she would?” Kristina asked. “It started off as a simple birthday party and now it’s sounds like it’s going to be the party of the year. We’ve got no idea where we going to have it.”

“Let me give her a call when we get to my place.” Tyler replied. “I’m sure she’ll be more than happy to help.”

“Thanks.” Kristina said, grinning. “For what Abigail’s got planned, I think she’s going to need all the help she can get.”

The two of them made their way back to Tyler’s apartment.

*******************
Kristina had just finished breakfast and was tidying up the kitchen when she heard her mobile ringing. She hurried in to the front room and pulled her mobile out of her bag.

“Hello?”

“Hi babe.” came the reply.

“Natty!” Krissy said, smiling when she recognised the voice.

Natalia, Natty to her friends, was Kristina’s best friend. They had met each other five years previously, when Kristina was still living in New York, so Natty was aware of everything that had happened with Urs. Kristina had been visiting an internet café as she was looking at starting her own business. She went there with the sole intention of doing research but she eventually found herself visiting a forum of one of her favourite singers. It just so happened that Natty was at the internet café and also liked the same singer. Natty had seen Kristina looking at the gallery pictures and made a rather suggestive remark about one of the poses, causing Kristina to burst in to fits of laughter. And that’s how the two of them started talking. They became good friends in a short space of time and would be in touch with each other every day. But these days, with Kristina being busy with her campaign and Natty concentrating on her singing career, they had only been able to make the occasional phone call. But they more than made up for it, with texts and emails.

“What are you doing calling at this time of the morning?” Kristina asked.

“I’m offended now.” she said, jokingly. “I thought you would be pleased to hear from me.”

“You know I’m always pleased to hear from you babe.” Kristina replied, as she checked her watch. “But it must be about 3am in New York.”

“Hmm, I guess it is.” she replied, quietly laughing.

“Natty?” Kristina said, suspiciously. “What have you been up to? Are you in trouble?”

“Me? I’m shocked you could say such a thing.” Natty replied, trying to sound innocent. “You know that I’m the epitome of innocence and sweetness.”

“Don’t make me laugh.” Kristina said, chuckling to herself. “We both know that’s not true.”

“Okay, now you’ve really hurt my feelings.” Natty replied. “I don’t know if I’m going to tell you my good news now.”

“Good news?” Kristina said, just as the doorbell rang. “Oh hang on, someone’s at the door.”

Kristina made her way down the hall, to the front door.

“Oh my God! Natty!” Kristina screamed, throwing her arms around Natty. “Why didn‘t you tell me you where here? What was all that talk on the telephone for? Why didn‘t you just ring the doorbell straight away?”

“I wanted to see the look on your face.” Natty replied, chuckling. “And it was definitely worth it.”

“You’re such a big kid.” Kristina said, laughing and pulling away from her friend. “Let me help you with those bags.” she added, as she picked up a suitcase and took it inside. “How long are you here for?”

“Not sure yet.” Natty replied, as she picked up the rest of her bags and followed Kristina inside. “I’m here to work on a new album, so it depends how things go.”

“Where are you staying?” Kristina asked, as she placed Natty’s case on the floor. “Are you booked in to a hotel?”

“I was kind of hoping that I could stay here.” Natty replied, sounding a little embarrassed. “That’s if you don’t mind.”

“You should know by now, you’re always welcome here.” Kristina said, hugging her friend again. “You don’t have to ask. But I’ll be leaving soon.”

“Oh, where are you off to?” Natty asked. “Are you going on holiday?”

“Not exactly.” Kristina replied. “It’s a long story which I’m sure you don’t want to hear right now. You look tired, why don‘t you go up stairs and get some rest?”

“I am a bit tired.” Natty confessed. “But I could murder a coffee first. Why don’t you tell me about it or do you have to leave for work?”

“It’s okay.” Kristina replied, heading towards the kitchen. “It won’t hurt if I get there a little bit later than usual.”

Natty followed Kristina in to the kitchen where she started to tell her everything that had happened since meeting Urs again.

**** CHAPTER 82 *****

“It sounds like you’ve had a hard time of it just lately.” Natty said, before taking a sip of coffee. “And forgive me for saying this but are you sure you’re doing the right thing by going back to New York with Tyler?”

“I need to get away from here.” Kristina sighed. “I’m not doing myself any good by staying here. Having to see Urs everyday, it’s like mental torture.”

“You can still go to New York.” Natty replied. “But you don’t have to go with Tyler. I don‘t want to see you get hurt, or Tyler for that matter. From what you‘ve told me, he sounds like a lovely guy.”

“He is.” Kristina said, smiling. “But he understands me, he understands what I’m going through. He knows all about Urs and I don‘t have to pretend with him. I feel comfortable with him.”

“That’s no reason to move to New York with him, Kristina.” Natty said, getting up from her stool and rinsing her cup out at the sink. “Tyler obviously thinks that there might be a future in your relationship, else he wouldn’t have asked you to go with him to New York. But can you see a future with him?”

“Yes, we get on really well.” Kristina said, nervously playing with her hair, trying to avoid eye contact with Natty. “I think we could make a go of things.”

“You’re playing with your hair.” Natty said, sitting down next to Kristina. “You always do that when you’re nervous or when you’re unsure of something. So how about an honest answer?”

“Okay, honest answer.” Kristina said, as she looked at Natty. “I don’t know but I’ve got to give it a try. I can‘t turn away every guy just because I‘m unsure.”

“I’m not saying you should turn away every guy.” Natty replied. “If you think that you and Tyler can make things work, then I’m pleased for you. But if you’re only with Tyler because he makes you feel ‘comfortable’ then you need to end it now before things get too serious.”

“You don’t understand.” Kristina said, frowning. “I really care for him. He‘s the first guy I‘ve taken an interest in since meeting Urs.”

“Well, are you afraid of hurting his feelings if you say no to him?” Natty asked. “If that’s the case, then you’ll only make things worse.”

“No!” Kristina said, a little too quickly. “It’s not like that.”

“Then tell me what it ‘is’ like.” Natty replied.

“I can’t explain it.” Kristina said, sighing. “I mean… I want to go to New York and I want to go with Tyler.”

“But?” Natty said, sensing there was something more.

“What if I forget about Urs?” Kristina said, nervously biting her lip.

“I’m confused.” Natty said, shaking her head. “I thought that was the whole point of you going to New York, so that you wouldn’t have to see Urs every day and that you could forget all about him.”

“But what if I never feel this way again?” Kristina said, faintly. “I’ve never loved anyone as much as Urs. Every time he walks in to a room, my stomach does somersaults and my throat gets so dry, I can hardly speak. He only has to smile at me and my heart beats so fast that I can feel it pounding in my chest. What if Urs is ‘the one’ and I never feel like this about anyone else?”

“Oh, Kristina.” Natty said, placing her hand on Kristina’s. “I wish I could help.”

“Do you think I’m dong the right thing?” Kristina asked, her eyes glistening with tears. “Should I go to New York?”

“I can’t tell you what to do.” Natty replied. “You just have to follow your heart.”

“My heart says Urs.” Kristina said, tearfully. “But it wouldn’t be right. I’ve told you what Marius said. The only reason he’s interested in me, is because I remind him of Aimee. How can I be with a man who loves me for all the wrong reasons?”

“I don’t know what to say.” Natty said, regretfully. “I don’t want to influence your decision but maybe you are doing the right thing by leaving, I’m just not so sure about Tyler.”

“I guess I should make a move.” Kristina said, quickly getting up from her seat, and drying her eyes. “They‘ll start to wonder where I am.”

“Will you be okay?” Natty asked.

“I’ll be fine.” Kristina replied, forcing a smile. “I’ve got loads to keep me busy and take my mind off things.”

“Well, don’t let me keep you.” Natty said, as she started to yawn.

“Looks like some one needs her beauty sleep.” Kristina said, quietly laughing. “If you get hungry, help yourself to whatever’s in the fridge. I’m not sure what time I will be home but here’s the spare key if you want to go out.”

Kristina said goodbye to Natty and set off for work. She still had a lot to do before they left for Italy the following night.

*****************
“I don’t believe this!” Kristina exclaimed, slamming down the phone.

“What’s wrong?” Tyler asked, seeing the worried look on Kristina’s face.

“Helen, that’s what’s wrong!” Kristina replied. “She’s supposed to be doing the make up this weekend but she’s just cancelled. She‘s been offered another job, more money.”

“Well can’t we just get someone else?” Tyler asked. “Surely this must happen all the time, don’t you have anyone else you can call?”

“I don’t know.” Kristina replied. “Things like this happen occasionally but how am I going to find someone in the next 5 hours and who’s willing to fly to Italy tonight?”

“I know someone.”

Tyler and Kristina both looked round to see Urs standing in the doorway.

“Sorry, I know I should’ve knocked but the door was open.” Urs said, as he entered the room.

“You know someone could fly to Italy tonight?” Tyler asked.

“Yes, my sister, Julianna.” Urs replied. “She’s a make up artist. She’s here in London at the moment. She’s supposed to working on a fashion show but I don’t think that’s until next week. I’m sure if I asked her she would say yes.”

“Well if you think she’ll say yes, that would be great.” Kristina said, smiling politely at Urs. “Do you think you could ask her and let me know as soon as possible?”

“Sure!” Urs replied. “I’ll give her call now.”

Kristina sat down in her chair and sighed.

“I hope to God she says yes because if she doesn’t then we’re doomed!”

“I’m sure Urs will talk her in to it.” Tyler said, leaning on the edge of the desk. “I think he’s trying to get back in your good books.”

“My good books?” Kristina said, confused. “What are you talking about?”

“I got the impression that you and Urs had some kind of… disagreement.” Tyler replied, trying to find the right word. “I sensed an atmosphere between you two the other day.”

“It was nothing. Just a misunderstanding.” Kristina said, casually shrugging her shoulders. “It’s all forgotten about now.”

“Well as long as you’re okay.” Tyler said smiling. “While I remember, I hope you don’t mind but I checked with Simon and he said it was okay.”

“What’s okay?” Kristina asked.

“Well, seeing as Abigail is coming to Italy with Carlos and you still have a party to plan, I thought Anna could come with us.” Tyler replied. “It makes sense, she can plan things with Abigail while we’re working and Anna can make the phone calls from Italy.”

“I don’t have a problem with that.” Kristina said, leaning back in her chair. “And it will be nice to meet your sister.”

“That’s what I was hoping you would say.” Tyler said, grinning.

*****************

In total there were ten of them on the plane. Kristina had originally planned on booking seats on a domestic flight but Simon had suggested they hire a private jet. Kristina didn’t hesitate in making the arrangements. Everyone had met at the airport and then been shown to a separate departure lounge where they had to wait for a short time, as checks were still being made on the plane. Soon they were shown to the jet and took their seats.

Urs was seated next to Saskia. It didn’t take much convincing from Urs, to talk Saskia into coming to Italy for the weekend. He knew how hard she had been working these past few weeks and even though he would be busy, it would do her good to get away and relax. When Urs has asked Saskia to come to Italy with him, she jumped at the chance. There was no way she was going to let Kristina be alone with Urs, and she could hardly do that if she was back in London.

Kristina was seated next to Tyler. She looked across at her sister and Carlos. They were holding hands and laughing at something the other one had said. She longed to have what her sister had, a happy marriage. But Kristina wasn’t sure it would ever happen, no matter what Madame Endora had told her.

Anna decided to sit next to Sebastien as there was an empty seat next to him. That and the fact that she thought he looked attractive and couldn’t help wondering if he had a girlfriend. She soon discovered that he was single but he had his eye on a young woman called Claudia.

David sat next to Julianna, who was delighted to be spending two days with her brother, albeit work but she was also looking forward to getting to know Kristina.

It was only a short flight but all of them were beginning to feel tired. It had been a long week and it was starting to get late. Their flight wouldn’t arrive in Italy until around 10pm and then they had an hours drive from the airport to the hotel. Kristina had arranged for a driver and a mini-bus as none of them would be up to driving.

Kristina had been rushing around all day, trying to help Abigail with details for the party as well as making last minute arrangements for the photo session and the video shoot. Kristina couldn’t help but occasionally glance over at Urs as he sat talking to Saskia. They seemed like the perfect couple. Kristina looked away and put her iPod on. She wasn’t a great flyer and listening to music helped her relax. Kristina leant her head back and closed her eyes as she listened to the voices singing. It was Il Divo. Kristina had gone to see Simon before they left, checking last minute details and he had given her a copy of a couple of new songs which they had completed. They still had to go to Sweden to record the album but Simon had thought Kristina might like to hear them. Kristina smiled to herself as she heard Urs’ voice over all the others. It was so warm, so mellow and clear, that she soon found herself drifting off to sleep, thinking of Urs and what it felt like to be kissed by him.

Saskia was almost asleep when Urs looked over and saw Kristina. He wasn’t sure if she was still awake but she had a faint smile on her face. He could see that she was listening to her iPod and wondered what she was listening to. But that wasn’t important, he thought to himself. He was more interested in what she was thinking. Was she thinking of him? Was she thinking of the kiss they shared? Did it mean anything to her? Since that night, Urs’ dreams had been filled with images of him and Kristina, wondering what would’ve happened if they had continued. Urs could still remember how she looked, that night in Paris, when she had fallen asleep in his arms. Urs shifted in his seat, his trousers were starting to become uncomfortably tight as he leant his head back and continued to watch Kristina. What would happen when she went back to New York next week? Would he ever see her again? Would he ever stop loving her? He needed to speak to Kristina but everywhere she went, Tyler was by her side and now Saskia was here too, it seemed impossible that he would get another chance to talk to her. Urs closed his eyes and sighed, thinking of what his life would be like without Kristina in it; again.

Saskia was drifting off to sleep when she felt Urs move and turned her head to check he was alright. She saw him gazing in Kristina’s direction and felt her chest tighten. She still hadn’t mentioned to Urs, that she knew about the kiss between him and Kristina. She was sure that if she bought it up, Urs might decide that he no longer wanted to be with her. Simon had told Saskia, that Kristina would be leaving within the next couple of weeks, which only convinced Saskia that she was making the right decision in not confronting Urs. If she could get through these next two weeks, and Kristina left, everything would return to normal.

Everyone was now awake; the pilot had announced that they would be landing shortly. There had been some slight turbulence on the flight and the pilot had asked for everyone to remain in their seats for the duration of the flight. But Kristina was desperate to use the toilet and she knew she couldn’t hold on any longer. She got up from her seat and quickly but carefully made her way down the aisle.

A short time later and Kristina was struggling to open the door. The catch seemed to be stuck. She nudged the door a couple of times but nothing happened. She knew they would be landing soon and she should be getting back to her seat. She gave it a few more nudges but nothing seemed to work. In the end she decided to give it one hard shove. Before she knew what had happened, the door burst open, and Kristina bumped straight in to Urs.

“I’m sorry.” Kristina said, quickly stepping away from him and straightening her clothes. “The door got stuck and I couldn’t open it.”

“I figured it was something like that.” Urs said, with an amused look on his face. “The pilot mentioned the door was a little temperamental and I noticed you’d been gone a while so I came to check if you were okay.”

“I… I’m fine.” Kristina said, faintly, as she caught the faint smell of his cologne. “We should get back to our seats.”

“Of course.” Urs said, stepping back to let Kristina past. But just as he stepped back, the plane jerked violently to one side. The two of them were thrown backwards, the toilet door slammed shut and Kristina found herself pinned against the wall by Urs, who didn’t seem to be in any hurry to move.

“Are you okay?” Urs said, calmly.

“Fine.” she squeaked.

“You don’t sound it.” he said, with a mischievous look on his face.

“That’s because I remember what happened last time we were alone together.” Kristina said, struggling to find her voice.

The mischievous look disappeared from Urs’ face and was replaced with one of tenderness.

“I wanted to talk to you about that.” Urs said, softly. “I’m sorry for upsetting you. But I don’t regret what happened between us for one second.”

Kristina felt her breathing start to quicken, as she suddenly became aware of just how close they were.

“Are you going to kiss me again?” she said in a faint whisper, not quite believing those words had just come from her mouth.

“Did you want me to?” Urs asked, dubiously.

Kristina looked in to his eyes then cast her gaze to his mouth.

Urs didn‘t wait for a reply. A soft moan escaped Kristina’s lips as Urs slowly leant down and lightly brushed his lips against hers. This kiss was different from the last. Before it had been hungry and demanding, yet this was extremely gentle and it left her silently pleading for more. Urs softly ran his hands down her arms until their fingers touched briefly.

“What are we doing, Urs?” Kristina said, faintly, looking up at him. “We can’t keep doing this.”

“I know.” Urs said, softly. “We need to talk, Krissy. But not here and not now. We should get back to our seats. People will wonder where we are.”

Urs turned and opened the door before looking back at Kristina and smiling.

Kristina gave a weak smile in return before Urs closed the door. Kristina sighed and leant her head back on the wall. She had kissed Urs again and it had been just as breath taking as the first kiss. But why had she let him do it? Why had she kissed him back? She knew that it wasn‘t her he was thinking of when they kissed. Kristina shook her head. She knew why; because deep down inside she didn’t care. She loved him.

***** CHAPTER 83 *****

Saskia looked at her watch; Urs had been gone almost ten minutes. Normally she wouldn’t let that wouldn’t worry her. It was the fact that Kristina still hadn’t returned to her seat that was worrying Saskia. Saskia checked her watch again, wondering what was taking them both so long. In the end, curiosity got the better of her and Saskia got up from her seat, and headed down the aisle. As she reached the end of the aisle, Urs appeared.

“Everything alright?” Urs asked, when he saw Saskia.

“I wondered where you were.” Saskia replied. “We’re just about to land.”

Saskia looked over Urs’ shoulder and saw Kristina emerge from the toilet. As Kristina closed the door she looked round and saw Saskia and Urs. She lowered her eyes to the floor and hurried past them.

“Is she okay?” Saskia asked.

“She‘s fine.” Urs replied, guiding Saskia back to their seats. “She was just having a few problems with the lock on the door. I think she‘s a little embarrassed.” Urs calmly explained.

Saskia and Urs returned to their seats. Saskia wasn’t convinced that Urs was being entirely honest with her but she still wasn’t going to say anything to him. She was definitely going to have words with Kristina again though. The fact that Kristina couldn’t look her in the eye left Saskia with the impression that there was more to it than a broken lock.

The plane landed at Lamezia Terme airport and all the luggage was loaded on to the mini-bus, before setting off for the hotel, La Bussola. It had been warm on the plane; that was probably one of the reasons why everyone had drifted off to sleep so quickly. But now as they stepped outside, all of them shivered against the cold night air.

“Are you warm enough?” Tyler asked, as they took their seats.

“I’m fine, thanks.” Kristina replied. “It was just so warm on that plane; I’ll be alright in a minute.”

“I can‘t wait to get to the hotel.” Tyler said, as he leant back and stretched. “I’m so tired I just want to fall in to bed.”

“I think we all feel like that.” Kristina said, glancing around at the others. Everyone was starting to look weary.

Urs got on the bus and Kristina’s eyes were instantly drawn to him. No matter how many times she saw him, he always took her breath away. Urs had a presence about him that had a profound effect on her. There was just something about him, the way he moved, a quiet confidence. But his eyes, his eyes were what first attracted her to him. They were full of warmth and passion, yet sometimes she was haunted by them. Sometimes it felt as if he could see right into her soul, and that he knew she still loved him more than ever.

Urs opened one of the luggage compartments above their seats. Kristina held her breath as Urs stood next to her seat, and reached up to put the bags away. Kristina’s gaze was fixed on Urs as his shirt rose up slightly, revealing his perfectly toned stomach. She nervously bit her lip and had to stop herself from reaching out and touching him. Kristina let out a heavy sigh, as Urs walked away and sat down in his seat.

An hour later, the minibus arrived at the hotel. Everyone wearily walked in to reception where they checked in and after having their luggage taken up to their rooms, they were all given a room key. Everyone said goodnight and made their way up to their rooms.

***************

Both Kristina and Tyler were up early, the following morning. They were double checking that everything was ready for the video shoot. That meant checking the location was ready to use, making sure the production team had everything they needed and that everyone knew what they were doing. That included Julianna, who would be doing make up, and Melanie, the wardrobe lady. Kristina had yet to meet her, but Simon had recommended her for the job.

Kristina had just finished making a phone call to the production team and had let them know that everyone would be there on time. Tyler was still checking on details for the photo shoot, which was arranged for the following day. Kristina checked her watch. They still had half an hour before they had to leave and meet in Piazza Ercole. Kristina decided to go out on the balcony and clear her head. Last night, she had fallen asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow, much to her relief. But she hadn’t been able to stop thinking about the second kiss between her and Urs since she got up. She was slightly confused about what she felt and what it meant. She was certain that her and Urs wouldn’t, and couldn’t kiss again. But as soon as the opportunity had arisen, she found herself wanting to kiss him again. She guessed it was a natural reaction, considering that she still loved him. But if she wanted to concentrate on her new relationship with Tyler, then she would have to start thinking with her head and not her heart.

Kristina had been standing on the balcony for only a few minutes when she heard some approach from behind. She turned to see Saskia. Kristina smiled politely at her before looking back at the view.

“Have you got something to tell me?” Saskia asked, as she stood next to Kristina and looked out across the square.

“No, I don’t think so.” Kristina said, not looking at Saskia.

“You’re quite sure about that?” Saskia said.

“I don’t mean to be rude, Saskia.” Kristina replied. “But if you’ve got something to say, then just say it. I don’t have time for games.”

“Okay, I’ll come straight out with it.” Saskia replied, turning to face Kristina, as she leant on the balcony railing. “I want to know what happened yesterday on the plane.”

“I’m not sure I know what you mean.” Kristina said, trying to stall for time, desperately trying to think of how she could avoid Saskia’s questions.

“You know damn well what I’m talking about.” Saskia hissed. “So you can wipe that stupid look off your face. You and Urs; on the plane yesterday. You both were gone for quite some time. Coincidence? I don‘t think so.”

“Have you spoken to Urs?” Kristina asked, not liking where this conversation was going. “Have you asked him about last night?”

“I’m not asking him, I’m asking you.” Saskia replied. “What happened?”

“What makes you think anything happened?” Kristina asked.

“It’s pretty obvious something did.” Saskia replied. “You can’t even look me in the eye and you’re trying to avoid answering my questions.”

“That doesn’t mean a thing.” Kristina said, glancing at Saskia. “Maybe I’m just not in the mood for this right now.”

“So when will you be in the mood to talk about this?” Saskia asked.

“How about never?” Kristina snapped. “If you want answers, try talking to Urs.”

“I’m not going to let this drop.” Saskia snapped back. “You’ve already kissed him once and I don‘t trust you. Did you kiss him again?”

Kristina didn’t reply. She didn’t want to lie to Saskia but she didn’t want to admit what had happened either. Urs should be the one telling Saskia, not her.

“I‘ll take your silence as an admission of guilt.” Saskia said, sneering at Kristina. “What is your problem?”

“What’s my problem?” Kristina yelled. “YOU! You’re the problem. If you want to know what happened why don’t you go and ask Urs? Why don’t you ask him for all the gory details if you’re so keen to know?”

“You know why!” Saskia yelled back. “I love him and I’m not going to let you ruin what we have.”

“I’m not trying to ruin anything.” Kristina lowered her voice. “But it’s pretty obvious you and him need to talk.”

“Why can’t you just stay away from him?” Saskia asked, angrily. “We were fine until you came on the scene.”

“In case you’d forgotten…” Kristina said slowly, trying to remain calm. “…Urs does have a part in all of this. I‘m not the only one at fault here.”

“I haven’t forgotten.” Saskia snapped. “And I’m not denying that Urs isn’t to blame as well. But you’ve got a man of your own now so why did you kiss Urs?”

“Why do you always assume that it’s me kissing him and not him kissing me?” Kristina snapped. “He kissed me, I didn’t force him.”

“I don’t believe you.” Saskia spat.

“Well that’s up to you.” Kristina said, raising her voice. “But it doesn’t change the fact that he kissed me.”

“Urs wouldn’t do that.” Saskia yelled. “You’re lying.”

“It’s true, Saskia.” Urs said, as he walked out on to the balcony and stood between the two women. “Krissy’s telling the truth. I kissed her, she didn‘t kiss me.”

Saskia looked at Urs, then Kristina before slowly looking back at Urs.

“But why?” she asked, her eyes starting to well up with angry tears. “Don’t you love me anymore?”

“Of course I do.” Urs said, his heart almost breaking when he saw the hurt in Saskia’s eyes. “But… I…”

“But what Urs?” Saskia asked, the tears falling freely now. “You love her too?”

Urs looked at Kristina, the faintest of smiles appearing on his face.

“Yes, I do.” Urs said, quietly.

“And what about you?” Saskia said, turning back to Kristina. “Do you love Urs?”

Kristina looked at Urs. What did he expect her to say? She’d told him numerous times that she didn’t love him. Did he expect this time to be any different?

“No, I don’t love him.” Kristina said, calmly.

“So why the hell do you keep kissing him?” Saskia said, as she lunged forward at Kristina.

“Once wasn’t enough, you had to do it again.”

“I’m.. I’m sorry.” Kristina stuttered. “I’…”

“Saskia!” Urs said, grabbing her and pulling her to him. “Stop it. Don’t make this any worse.”

“Any worse?” Saskia cried. “You admit you kissed her and you tell me you love her. It can’t get any worse!”

“Saskia please listen…” Urs started to say. “Let me explain.”

“I don’t want to hear it, Urs.” Saskia said, pulling away from him. “I don’t know why you asked me to come to Italy with you when it’s obvious you’d rather be with her.”

“Saskia, it’s not like that.” Urs said, as she ran from the balcony and disappeared inside.

Urs stood staring at the doorway before turning and looking at Kristina.

“Shouldn’t you go and see if she’s alright?” Kristina asked, nervously.

“I should but I think she needs to be on her own.” Urs said, putting his hands in his pockets. “I’ll only upset her even more. And besides…Tyler asked me to come and find you and let you know that we’re all ready to leave for the video shoot.”

“I still think you should go and check on Saskia first.” Kristina said, worriedly.

“I’ll ask Julianna if she can go and sit with her for a while.” Urs said. “Would that be alright?”

“It’ll be fine.” Kristina replied, feeling guilty. “We won’t need her straight away.”

Kristina started to follow Urs as he headed for the door but then he stopped and turned to face her.

“Did you mean what you said?” Urs asked, quietly. “When you told Saskia that you didn’t love me? Did you really mean it?”

***** CHAPTER 84 *****

“How many times are you going to keep asking me that Urs?” Kristina said, as she went to walk past him.

“As many times as it takes.” Urs replied, gently taking hold of her arm. “If you don’t love me, why do you let me kiss you? And why do you react the way you do when I kiss you?”

Kristina didn’t know what to say. There was only one reason why she reacted the way she did; because she loved him. It was a simple enough reason but one that she couldn’t tell him.

“You can’t give me an honest answer can you?” Urs said, still waiting for a reply.

“I’ve already told you how I feel about you, Urs.” Kristina replied, as she tried to pull away from him.

“I know what you’ve told me.” Urs said, not letting go of her. “But I want the truth.”

“I’ve told you the truth.” Kristina said, unable to look him in the eye, as she said it.

“Sometimes I almost believe you.” Urs said, softly, as he reached out to touch her face. “But then I see you smile at me and I can’t help but wonder, how can someone who says she doesn‘t love me, look at me the way you do?”

“And what way is that?” Kristina asked, as she looked in to his eyes.

“Like I’m the only man you could ever love.” Urs said, in a whisper, gently caressing her cheek. “Like I’m your whole world… but you refuse to let me into it.”

“Urs please.” Kristina said, suddenly turning her face away.

“Krissy…did you mean what you said to Saskia?” Urs asked again.

“This is a waste of time.” Kristina said, trying to pull away from Urs for a second time.

“No, it’s not.” Urs replied, moving so that he was now standing in front of her. “We need to talk about this.”

“We keep talking, Urs.” Kristina replied. “And we just keep going round in circles.”

“Krissy, listen to me.” Urs softly. “You told me that you lied to me at the hospital. I’ve no idea why but who’s to say you’re not lying to me now?”

Kristina tried to turn away again but Urs placed his hands on her shoulders and made her face him.

“I lost you once, Krissy.” he whispered. “I don’t want to lose you again. I have to know…. I ‘need’ to know… do you love me?”

Kristina could feel a lump in her throat as the tears started to build up. How many more times would he ask her? How many more times would she have to lie and see that look of hurt and disappointment in his eyes?

“Alright, tell me this.” Kristina said, finally looking up at him. “What happens if I tell you I love you? You’ve just told Saskia you love her too. Or were you lying?”

“No, I wasn‘t lying.” Urs replied. “I love Saskia but…”

“But what, Urs?” Kristina asked. “You can’t be in love with two people at the same time. So who is it? Me or Saskia?”

Urs lowered his eyes to the floor.

“You haven’t thought about any of this, have you, Urs?” Kristina said, when he didn’t answer.

“Okay I’ll admit I haven’t thought it all through.” Urs replied. “But I know I love you and I can’t lose you again, not for a third time. So please, tell me the truth.”

“What are you hoping for Urs?” Kristina asked. “Third time lucky?”

“I’ll ask you one more time, Krissy.” Urs said, quietly. “Do you love me?”

“I can’t do this anymore.” Kristina said, stepping away from him.

“Why not, Krissy?” Urs said, not taking his eyes off her, as he moved towards her. “Because you know you love me but you can’t bring yourself to say it?”

“You wouldn’t understand, Urs.” Kristina said, as she thought back to their conversation in the elevator. When would Urs realise that it wasn’t her he was in love with but just a fantasy, someone who reminded him of Aimee.

“So you do love me!” Urs said, sounding hopeful.

“I didn’t say that.” Kristina said, quickly.

“No, but you implied it.” Urs commented.

“There’s no point in carrying on with this conversation.” Kristina said, stepping back from him. “In a weeks time I’ll be in New York with Tyler and you’ll be back in London with Saskia.”

“Hang on a minute.” Urs said, frowning. “Tyler’s going with you to New York?”

“Tyler’s moving there to run a new business.” Kristina replied. “And he asked me to go with him.”

“Oh…so you and him… you’re serious?” Urs said, faintly.

“As serious as you can be after dating two weeks.” Kristina replied.

“I didn’t realise.” Urs said. “I mean… I knew you’d been seeing him but….”

“We should go, Urs.” Kristina said, suddenly as she headed towards the door. “I don’t want to be late.”

“Krissy, wait!” Urs said, quickly stepping in front of her.

“So this is where you two are hiding?” Tyler said, cheerily as he walked out on to the balcony. “Everyone else is downstairs waiting for you.”

“Sorry, we were just leaving.” Kristina said, smiling at Tyler. She then looked to Urs. “This conversation is over, Urs.”

Kristina walked past him and made her way downstairs.

“When are you going to realise that she doesn’t love you, Urs.” Tyler said, when Kristina had left. “In a weeks time, you’ll never see her again. Why don’t you just give up?”

Tyler didn’t give Urs a chance to reply as he turned his back on him and went inside.

“Because I know she loves me.” Urs thought to himself. “And as long as she still loves me, I’ll never give up on her. Never.”

****************
Two hours later and everyone was gathered in Piazza Ercole. Abigail had come so that she could be with Carlos but she also brought Anna with her, as she had never seen how a music video was made. Tyler had received a phone call earlier that morning to say that he had hired a new recruit, Steve Martin, and he would be joining them on the video shoot. He had just been hired as their future tour manager and would be helping out with any of their needs. Tyler had been explaining all their plans to him while Kristina had finally managed to meet Mel, the wardrobe lady. They were going through the outfits, and Mel explained which outfit was for which Divo. Kristina couldn’t wait to see Urs in the outfit Mel had planned for him, black trousers, white vest, black waistcoat and a long black coat. Kristina laughed when Mel joked that you could almost believe he was part of the Mafia, with the outfit and his Italian looks.

Urs had briefly explained to Julianna what had happened to between him, Kristina and Saskia. Julianna had reluctantly agreed to sit with her for a while before joining the others in the square. It was David’s scene first, so Julianna had followed the others in to the small café and got to work. It was only a small scene, so after David’s hair and make up had been done; it wasn’t long before Julianna made a start with Sebastien and then Carlos. But there was a problem. Kristina could see the directors talking and waving their hands around in the air so she went over to see what the problem was.

“The model for the next scene.” Michelle explained. “It seems she had a bit too much to drink last night and she’s now dealing with a hangover. Honestly, where do they get these models from?”

“So what do we do now?” Kristina asked. “Did you want to wait for her and move on to another scene or find someone else?”

“We’ll have to find someone else and quickly!” Michelle replied. “Everything’s set up for the scene and we’ve only got this room for another three hours. Even if we wait for her to recover, I doubt that any amount of make up will stop her from looking like death warmed up.”

Michelle then started looking at the people standing around watching them.

“Maybe we could use one of the extras.” she commented. “There must be someone for the part.”

“What about her?” Chris, the assistant director, asked. “The eyes, the long dark hair, she’s the right age. She’d be perfect.”

Michelle and Kristina looked to where Chris was pointing.

“You mean Abigail?” Kristina said, when she realised who they were talking about.

“You know her?” Michelle asked. “Do you think she would do it?”

“She’s my sister.” Kristina replied. “And I don’t know, she’s never done anything like this before.”

“Well what are you waiting for!” Michelle said. “Go and ask her.”

Half an hour later, Abigail was having her make up done. She was wearing a figure hugging, knee length black dress. Her long dark hair had been in a ponytail but now it was hanging loose around her shoulders.

“It looks like you’ll get your fifteen minutes of fame.” Julianna commented, as she made the finishing touches to Abigail’s make up.

“I don’t know about that.” Abigail replied. “From what Michelle said, it’s only going to be about twenty seconds.”

“That’s enough.” Julianna said, as she took a step back to check her work.

“Enough for what?” Abigail asked.

“To be discovered.” Julianna replied. “You never know who will see you once you’re on television!”

“Have you finished?” Carlos asked, as he walked towards them. “Michelle says they’re ready to go.”

“All yours.” Julianna replied, stepping back so that Abigail could pass.

“Shall we?” Carlos asked, as he held his arm out for Abigail.

“I’m so nervous.” Abigail said, as she took his arm. “What if I make a mistake?”

“Don’t worry about it.” Carlos replied. “I’ll be right there with you. You’ll be fine.”

Carlos was right, Abigail was fine. She did exactly as they asked and it wasn’t long before the scene was finished.

***************

It was now dark and Urs’ scene was the last one of the day. Julianna was almost finished on Urs’ make up.

“You know you’ve got to talk to Saskia when you get back to the hotel.” Julianna said. “I didn’t like doing your dirty work this morning but there was no way I was going to let Saskia sit in a hotel room on her own while you’re down here, falling all over Kristina.”

“I’m not falling all over her.” Urs replied. “And I’m sorry for putting you in that position. But I know Saskia wouldn’t have spoken to me, she was too upset and I didn’t want to make things worse.”

“Too late for that, dear brother.” Julianna said, sighing. “How on earth did you get yourself in to this mess?”

“It’s not like I planned it.” Urs said. “I didn’t think I would ever see Krissy again.”

“So what are you going to do now that you have?” Julianna asked. “If you love them both, like you say you do, then you need to make up your mind. Who will it be? Saskia or Kristina?”

“Krissy asked me that same question.” Urs replied. “And I couldn’t give her an answer this morning.”

“And now?” Julianna asked.

“Me and Krissy… we were meant to be.” Urs said, as he looked across at Kristina who was talking to Tyler.

“Well, it seems Kristina thinks differently.” Julianna replied, as she turned to see what Urs was looking at. “But come on, it’s getting late, you’ve got to film this last scene and then you’re done for the night.”

Urs got up and made his way across the street to the small barbers shop. Kristina and Tyler followed and joined the others. Kristina couldn’t take her eyes off Urs when she saw him sitting in the barbers chair, wearing the black trousers and a white vest. She had often thought back to her time in Paris, when she had woken to find Urs asleep in the chair beside her bed. She continued to stare at him, taking in the sight, noticing how toned his shoulders, chest and arms were. He’d definitely been working out since Paris. Kristina’s eyes moved from Urs’ chest to his face. He must’ve seen her looking at his body because he gave her a wink before continuing his conversation with Michelle. Kristina nearly choked on her drink and coughed a few times and in the process spilt some of it down her blouse.

“Are you okay?” Tyler asked, patting her on the back.

“I’m fine.” Kristina replied, trying to catch her breath. “I just… I just… it doesn‘t matter.”

Kristina glanced at Urs, who was smirking at her. Damn that man, she mumbled to herself.

***** CHAPTER 85 *****

After his scene was finished, Urs had got changed. He had been trying to find Mel, to give the clothes back to her but he couldn’t find her anywhere. He eventually found her sitting outside on a wall, not far from the barbers shop.

“Mel?” Urs said, as he walked up to her.

“Hmm?” she replied, turning to look and see who it was.

“I came to give these back to you.” Urs said, holding out the clothes. “I couldn’t find you inside and I didn’t want to leave them lying around in case someone took them.”

“Thanks.” Mel said, smiling, as she took the clothes from him and then stared across the street.

“Are you okay?” Urs asked, sitting down on the wall next to her.

“Yes, why shouldn’t I be?” she asked, glancing at him.

“Just wondered.” Urs replied. “You seem a bit… preoccupied.”

“I’m fine.” she said, sighing as she looked back across the street.

Urs looked in the same direction, to see what Mel was looking at. The only people that were directly opposite them were Tyler and Kristina. Why would she be watching them?

“Can I ask you something?” Mel said, a minute later. “If it’s too personal then you don’t have to answer.”

“What did you want to ask me?” Urs said, now intrigued.

Mel paused for a moment before continuing.

“Do you like Kristina?” she asked.

“I already have a girlfriend.” Urs replied. “Her name’s Saskia.”

“That’s not what I asked.” Mel said, smirking.

“Why do you want to know?” Urs asked, warily.

“I’ve seen the way you two look at one another when you think the other one’s not looking.” Mel replied. “It’s pretty obvious you two have a thing for each other… and I saw you wink at her earlier.”

“It’s a long story.” Urs said, blushing. It wasn’t so much the fact that he was seen winking at Kristina that embarrassed him but the fact that someone had seen him watching her all day. “You’re probably better off not knowing.” Urs added.

“Well, can you tell me what’s going on with those two?” Mel asked, nodding in the direction of Kristina and Tyler, who were still talking. “Is Tyler spoken for?”

“You like him?” Urs said, curiously. “You like Tyler?”

“Maybe.” Mel said, smiling. “I just wondered what the story was with those two because I was talking to his sister, Anna, earlier.”

“And?” Urs asked a little confused.

“And… if you like her and she likes you, why is she going to New York with him?” Mel asked.

“Like I said before.” Urs said, sighing. “It’s a long story.”

“Oh well, Anna says Kristina is Tyler’s girlfriend, so I guess that’s it.” Mel said, shrugging her shoulders. “There’s plenty more fish in the sea.”

A thought then flashed through Urs’ mind.

“I wouldn’t worry about Krissy.” Urs said, casually. “They’ve only been dating a couple of weeks so it’s still a new relationship. It’s nothing serious.”

“But she’s moving to New York with him.” Mel said, turning to Urs. “That sounds pretty serious to me.”

“She’s only going to New York with Tyler to help with some new business that his father has bought.” Urs replied.

“Oh… I didn’t realise.” Mel said, her face lighting up.

“If you like him, I say go for it.” Urs said, as he got up from the wall and brushed himself down. “What have you got to lose?”

“You know, I think you’re right.” Mel said, grinning. “Thanks, Urs.”

“You’re welcome.” Urs said, smiling. “But you had better hurry up. They leave for New York in seven days.”

Urs smiled to himself as he headed back to where the cars were waiting to take him and the others back to the hotel. Mel couldn’t have arrived at a better time. Who knows, if Tyler was interested in Mel, maybe he would call things off between him and Kristina. Maybe she would change her plans and stay in London.

*********************

Everyone had met up and had arrived back to the hotel. Usually Sebastien would go with Carlos to see the local nightlife but seeing as Abigail was with him, Sebastien was at a loss. He desperately wanted to visit a wine bar called Le Volpe e L’Ulva, which Mel had told him about earlier that afternoon. Apparently they had over 300 wines in their cellar. Perhaps he could convince David to go with him.

“Come on, David.” Sebastien pleaded. “Say yes.”

“But I don‘t even like wine.” David replied.

“So don‘t drink it.” Sebastien said, rolling his eyes. “Order something else! Besides, there’s no one else I can go with and I don’t want to go my own. The women will think I’m out on the push.”

“You mean the pull, Seb.” David said chuckling. “Out on the pull. But don’t you think two men going to a wine bar won’t look a bit… you know.”

Sebastien furrowed his eyebrows, confused at what David was implying.

“Go on Seb.” Carlos said, sniggering. “You might enjoy yourself! You might find yourself a nice woman.”

“I’ve already found a nice woman.” Sebastien said, grinning. “Laura.”

“Too bad she doesn’t feel the same way.” Carlos said, still sniggering.

“Yes, she does.” Sebastien replied.

“Oh and she told you this did she?” David asked.

“Uhm… no.” Sebastien said, blushing. “I haven’t spoken to her since she arrived in London. I keep trying to call her but I never know what to say. I just hang up.”

“I don’t believe that for a moment. You lost for words?” David replied. “I thought all you French men were sweet talkers and full of bull…”

“David!”

David turned around to see Abigail standing behind him.

“I hope you weren’t going to swear.” Abigail said, smiling sweetly. “There are ladies present you know.”

“Sorry Abigail.” David said, quietly laughing. “I just can’t believe that Sebastien is at a loss for words. I think he’s in love.”

“I’m not in love.” Sebastien said, quickly. “I admit she’s very nice. She’s very pretty… her eyes, she’s just perfect.

“Who are we talking about?” Abigail asked.

“Laura.” Sebastien said, dreamily.

“Come on lover boy.” David said, slapping Sebastien on the back. “Let’s go and find this wine bar. We’ll see you guys later.”

They said goodbye and left Abigail and Carlos in the hotel lobby.

“Who’s Laura?” Abigail said, frowning. “I don’t remember hearing you mention her name before.”

“We met her a few nights ago at the office.” Carlos replied. “That’s the night that we had to stay late.”

“You never mentioned it.” Abigail said.

“No? Well… I must have forgotten.” Carlos said, smiling nervously. Carlos still hadn’t told Abigail the real reason behind why they stayed at work late that night. The real reason being that they were meeting Laura so they could read the police report. “But come on, Abby.” Carlos added. “We have dinner plans so we need to get changed.”

“Where are we going?” she asked, as he took her hand and led the way to their hotel room.

“I’m not telling.” Carlos said, grinning. “It’ll be a nice surprise.”

Carlos was taking Abigail to a restaurant called ‘Osteria del Piscatorial’ in Via Del Monte, not far from where they were staying. It was famous for it’s shrimp and pasta and Carlos knew how much Abigail loved seafood.

**************

Urs had gone straight up to his and Saskia’s room. They had some serious talking to do. Urs just hoped that Saskia had calmed down and was willing to listen to him. He knew he had a lot of explaining to do and this wasn’t going to be easy. Urs didn’t go straight in to the room, instead he cautiously knocked on the door. But there was no answer, so Urs had no other choice than to let himself in.

“Saskia?” he called out quietly, not sure if she was asleep.

“What do you want?” came the abrupt reply.

Urs turned to see Saskia, coming out of the bathroom, her eyes red. It was obvious she had been crying.

“Are you alright?” Urs asked.

“What do you think?” Saskia snapped. “I’ve just found out that my boyfriend is in love with another woman.”

“Saskia it’s not what you think.” Urs said, walking towards her. “We’re not having an affair, we haven’t slept together, we only kissed.”

“Oh and that makes it alright?” Saskia sneered. “I’m supposed to be grateful that you only kissed her and now I should just forgive and forget? Well you can think again, Urs. I‘m certainly not going to forget this in a hurry and I don‘t know if I want to forgive you.”

“I don’t expect you to forgive or forget.” Urs said quietly, as he stood in front of her and gently placed his hand on her arm. “But I’m asking you to. I love you…”

“Oh don’t give me that rubbish.” Saskia said, brushing his hand away. “If you felt anything for me at all, you wouldn’t have kissed Kristina. Anyway, you still haven’t told me what you’re doing here.”

“I wanted to see you.” Urs replied. “I came to talk about us.”

“It’s a bit late for that, don’t you think?” Saskia said, turning her back on him as she walked over to the window. “You didn’t even come to see me after you dropped that bombshell. You sent Julianna instead, the poor woman didn’t know what to say and who could blame her? I suppose you stayed with ‘her’ after I left.”

Urs didn’t reply, he put his hands in his pockets, nervously shuffling his feet.

“So what was so important that you had to stay and talk to her, rather than come and talk about us?” Saskia asked, her eyes starting to fill with tears again. “Don’t you want to save this relationship, Urs?”

“Of course I do.” Urs replied. “That’s why I came as soon as I could. But I couldn‘t come before as I had to work.”

“So now your job’s more important than me?” Saskia cried. “I’m not exactly high on your list of priorities, am I Urs?”

“Saskia…. please…I… ” Urs stuttered.

“I don’t want to hear it, Urs.” Saskia said, backing away from him. “I think you’d better find somewhere else to sleep tonight.”

“You can’t be serious?” Urs said, shocked. “We have to talk about this?”

“We’ll talk Urs.” Saskia replied. “We’ll talk when I’m ready. But right now, I don’t want you anywhere near me.”

“Where am I going to sleep?” Urs asked.

“I don’t know and I don’t care.” Saskia snapped. “Why don’t you go and ask one of the others if you can share a room? Or even better, why don’t you see if Kristina will share her bed with you?”

“Saskia, I told you…” Urs started to say.

“Just go, Urs.” Saskia said, tearfully. “Now, please!”

Urs didn’t want to upset Saskia any more than she already was, so he picked up his jacket and left the room, quietly closing the door behind him. Urs decided that Sebastien would be the best person to ask if he could stay with him but he would have to wait until he came back from the wine bar. In the meantime, he decided to go for a walk and think about the mess he’d got himself into.

********

Tyler and Kristina were both tired from the early start and being on their feet all day. Neither of them were up to going out, so they chose to stay in and have a meal at the hotel. They still had the photo shoot to do tomorrow; they said goodnight and went to their rooms. Except Kristina couldn’t get to sleep. Yet again, Kristina couldn’t stop thinking about Urs and Tyler. She knew she was doing the right thing by leaving London and hoped that in time she could forget Urs. And she genuinely believed that her and Tyler had something special and was sure that they could make a go of things. But it didn’t stop Kristina having doubts. She decided to get dressed and go for a walk.

Kristina had been walking for about twenty minutes when she found herself back in Piazza Ercole. The locals had told her a lot about the small town Tropea but she was so busy with the video shoot that she couldn’t remember a thing they told her. Kristina looked up and saw the church and Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria lit up against night sky. It looked so tranquil and serene, that’s exactly what Kristina needed. She walked the short distance across the square and started to make her way up the steps that led to the church.



A short time later, Kristina had made it to the top and sat down on the wall.

“Great minds think alike.” a voice said.

Kristina jumped and looked round to see Urs walking towards her.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

“Same thing as you I guess.” Urs replied, as he sat down on the wall next to her. “Couldn’t you sleep?”

“No.” Kristina said, slowly shaking her head.

“Want to talk about it?” Urs asked. “You know what they say, a problem shared is a problem halved.”

“Yes but you’re the problem, Urs.” Kristina said, sighing. “So I don’t think it’s going to help.”

The two sat in silence for several minutes before Kristina spoke.

“Why can’t you sleep?” she asked, looking at Urs. “Am I the problem? Am I to blame?”

“Me and Saskia had an argument.” Urs replied. “She threw me out.”

“Oh… I’m sorry.” Kristina said, feeling guilty. “Have you and Saskia… you know…”

“Broke up?” Urs finished. “I’ve no idea. She said we’ll talk but she doesn’t want me around at the moment. I don’t blame her.”

“It was my fault too.” Kristina admitted. “I kissed you back, I shouldn‘t have done.”

“But it doesn’t change the fact that I wanted to kiss you.” Urs confessed. “And it doesn’t change the fact that I’m still in love with you.”

Kristina looked away from Urs and stared out across the sea, ignoring his comment.

“Are you really going to New York next week?” Urs asked.

“I go wherever my work takes me.” Kristina replied.

“But you have a job here in London, Krissy.” Urs said. “Why do you have to go to New York?”

“Because I miss home.” Kristina said, sighing. “I miss New York, my friends and my family. And Tyler’s going to New York. I want to go with him.”

“You really like him, don’t you?” Urs asked.

Kristina nodded, silently.

“Do you still like me, Krissy?” Urs said, faintly. “I mean, you don’t hate me do you?”

“Of course I don’t hate you!” Kristina replied. “I could never hate you. I know I said I did but I was angry. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it.”

“That’s okay.” Urs said, smiling. “I asked for it.”

Both of them smiled to themselves as they thought back to the kiss they shared in the elevator. Then Urs spoke.

“Is there nothing I can say to make you change your mind?” Urs asked.

Kristina shook her head.

“I have to go, Urs.” Kristina said, regretfully.

Urs couldn’t accept that Kristina would be leaving London next week. He still had time to try and convince her to stay. But he needed to resolve things with Saskia first. He still loved Saskia but he loved Kristina too. He had to make a decision.

Urs slid his hand across the wall and placed it on Kristina’s.

“I’ll miss you.” he said softly.

“I’ll miss you too.” Kristina said, as she moved her hand slightly.

Urs thought she was going to pull away but Kristina slid her fingers through his. Urs gave her hand a gentle squeeze and they sat in silence, holding hands and looking out in to the darkness.

***** CHAPTER 86 *****

Urs and Kristina had been sitting in silence for almost an hour, just holding hands and enjoying being close to one another; both of them secretly wishing they could stay there all night but they knew it couldn’t last.

“We should get back to the hotel.” Kristina said, as she stood up.

“Do we have to?” Urs asked, reluctantly letting go of her hand.

“We’ve all got an early start tomorrow.” Kristina replied. “We have a photo shoot to do.

“I know.” Urs said, sighing. “But I like sitting here with you, just the two of us.”

Kristina knew exactly what Urs meant, it was like they were the only two people in the world and nothing or no-one else mattered.

“We really should try and get some sleep.” Kristina said, ignoring his last comment.

“Krissy…” Urs said, quietly as he got up from the wall. “…can I ask you something?”

“It depends what it is.” Kristina replied. She just hoped that he wasn’t going to ask her if she loved him, yet again.

“I know I’m asking a lot…” Urs said, softly. “Especially after everything that’s happened… but can I hold you?”

“Hold me?” Kristina asked, slightly surprised.

“I was thinking maybe… maybe we could say goodbye now.” Urs said, quietly.

“But I’m not leaving for another week.” Kristina said, a little confused.

“I know but I don’t think I can face saying good bye to you in front of everyone else.” Urs said, laughing nervously. “I might just do something stupid, like cry.”

Kristina wasn‘t so sure this was a good idea. She was certain that if Urs didn‘t cry then she probably would.

“Please Krissy.” Urs said, frowning. “We might not get another chance like this, before you leave for New York. It’ll be difficult to say goodbye to you with Saskia and Tyler around. I just want to hold you, one last time.”

“Okay.” she replied, a little hesitantly. She slowly walked in to his open arms, and immediately felt safe, the heat from his body surrounding her as they hugged. Whether it was right or wrong, she’d never loved anyone as much as Urs. She couldn’t control her feelings for him. She just knew that something happened to her, every time they touched or looked at one another.

Urs slid his hands around her waist and moved slowly up her back to pull her tightly against his body. She rested her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. She wanted to indulge in this moment for just a few minutes more, so that she could remember it forever. Kristina knew when the time came, it wouldn’t be easy saying goodbye to Urs. Kristina closed her eyes, willing herself not to cry.

“Will I ever see you again?” Urs whispered.

“I don’t know.” Kristina replied quietly. “Maybe it’s best if we don’t.”

Urs held on to Kristina even tighter.

“Urs…” she started to say, as she swallowed hard to hold back the tears.

“I never want to let go of you.” Urs murmured. “It’s going to kill me to see you leave again.”

“I think it’s time we went back to the hotel, Urs.” Kristina said, gently pushing away from Urs. “I’m tired.”

Urs reluctantly let go of her and the two of them started to slowly walk back to the hotel. But they had only taken a few steps when Kristina suddenly felt faint, her heart pounding in her ears, her mouth became dry and her vision began to blur. She felt disorientated, as if everywhere were spinning. Urs looked back at Kristina and in seconds, he was at her side. Kristina felt so weak that she had to lean in to Urs, her hands clinging to his shoulders for support.

“Krissy, what’s wrong?” Urs asked, worriedly as he quickly picked her up in his arms and carried her back to the wall.

“I…I don’t know.” she whispered.

“Should I call a doctor?” Urs asked, as he sat her back down on the wall.

“No! I just feel a bit dizzy.” she said, weakly. “It’ll pass.”

“Are you sick?” Urs said.

“No, really I’m fine.” Kristina said, forcing a smile. “I’m probably just tired.”

“Do you want to me to call your sister?” Urs asked, as he put his hands up to her forehead, checking she didn’t have a temperature.

“Urs, will you stop worrying.” she said, gently brushing his hand away. “Please, just give me a couple of minutes and I’ll be alright.”

Urs sat down next to Kristina, and put his jacket around her when he noticed her start to shiver. Kristina closed her eyes tightly and pressed the heels of her palms hard against them, trying to ease the pain behind her eyes.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to call someone?” Urs asked, frowning when he saw her rubbing her eyes. “You don’t look well.”

“I’m fine.” Kristina lied. “Can you take me back to the hotel, Urs. Please?”

“Of course, Krissy.” Urs said, quickly getting to his feet. “Are you okay to walk or do you want me to carry you?”

“No, I can walk.” Kristina said, slowly standing up. “I still feel a bit dizzy but I’ll be okay. I’m just really tired.”

It wasn’t long before they were at the bottom of the steps that led from the castle. Urs spotted a taxi across the square, so they took the taxi back to the hotel. The taxi pulled up outside the hotel. Urs told Kristina to stay in the car while he paid the driver and then quickly got out, hurrying round to the other side of the car to help Kristina get out.

“I’m alright, Urs.” Kristina said, as Urs took her hand and slipped an arm around her waist. “I just need some sleep and I’ll be fine in the morning.”

“Maybe you should take tomorrow off.” Urs suggested. “Let me call Tyler and tell him what happened.”

“No, please don’t do that.” Kristina said, worriedly. “I’ll be okay in the morning.”

“Tyler doesn’t like me very much, does he?” Urs said, quietly. “What have you told him about us?”

“Urs, please, I can’t deal with this at the moment.” Kristina said, as he helped her up the steps to the hotel reception. “I need to lie down.”

“Okay, I’m sorry.” Urs replied, frowning when he saw how pale Kristina was. “I think we should ask the hotel to call a doctor. You really don’t look well and after everything that you’ve been through, you have to be careful.”

“Urs, I know you mean well but will you please stop fussing.” Kristina said, smiling weakly. “Do you think I don’t know I have to be careful? That’s all I’ve been doing these past few years.”

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, faintly. “I can’t help worrying about you.”

“Look, I have to see my doctor this week before I leave for New York anyway.” Kristina said, reassuringly. “It’s a regular six month check up. I probably need to change my medication again, it happens occasionally.”

“I still think you should see someone now.” Urs replied. “What if…”

“Urs, please!” Kristina said, rubbing her forehead.

“I’m sorry.” Urs said, guiding Kristina towards the elevator.

“Urs?” Kristina said, faintly. “Do me a favour.”

“Anything!” Urs replied. “Is something wrong?”

“Will you please stop saying you’re sorry.” Kristina said, smiling.

“Okay, sorry.” Urs said, smiling back. “I don’t realise I’m doing it half the time.”

Kristina couldn’t help quietly laughing, after Urs had said sorry yet again.

As they reached the elevator, the doors opened and they stepped inside. They both stood in silence as the elevator made it’s way up to their floor. Urs held Kristina close to him, his left arm around her back and his right hand resting on her hipt. Kristina gladly leant against him, his strong arms supporting her; that was all she needed at that moment, to feel safe and secure in his embrace.

“What’s your room number?” Urs asked, as they stepped out of the elevator.

“I can’t remember.” Kristina said, sleepily, as she fumbled in her pocket for her room key.

“Here, let me.” Urs said, as he slipped his hand in her jacket pocket and pulled out the key. “210, that’s just a long here.”

Urs put the key in the door and guided Kristina inside.

“I’ll be alright now.” Kristina said, a little embarrassed, when she realised that Urs had followed her inside and was closing the door.

“Well I’ll feel better when I know you’re safely tucked up in bed.” Urs said, smiling.

“What are you, my mother all of a sudden?” Kristina said, jokingly.

“No, think of me as… your knight in shining armour.” Urs said, following her to the bedroom.

Kristina turned to see Urs standing behind her.

“You’re not going to watch me are you?” Kristina said, as she sat down on the bed.

“Watch?” Urs asked, a little confused.

Kristina held up her nightshirt.

“Oh… no… sorry.” Urs said, blushing. “I’ll wait outside.”

Kristina smiled to herself as she started to undress and change into her nightshirt.

“Can I come in?” Urs asked, a few minutes later.

“Yes.” Kristina replied, getting up from the bed. “I just need to clean my teeth.”

“That’s not important.” Urs said, gently taking hold of her arm. “I’d rather you just got some sleep.”

“No, I need to clean them.” Kristina said, as she walked towards the bathroom. “I’ve got a really horrible taste in my mouth.”

Urs sat on the edge of the bed, waiting for Kristina to return. She’d only been in the bathroom for a couple of minutes when he heard her calling for him. Urs hurried to bathroom and slowly opened the door. He found Kristina sitting on the edge of the bath.

“Can you help me?” Kristina asked, her eyelids drooping. “My legs feel like jelly.”

Urs smiled and walked towards her.

“Of course I can.” Urs said, walking towards her. Kristina slid her arms around his neck and closed her eyes, as Urs leant down and picked her up. He carried Kristina in to the bedroom and gently laid her down on the bed. Urs pulled the sheets up over Kristina and leant down and gently kissed her on the forehead.

“Sweet dreams.” Urs whispered.

He turned and was about to leave the bedroom when Kristina spoke.

“Urs?” she said, sleepily. “Do you have anywhere to stay tonight?”

“No.” Urs replied. “I’ll ask Seb if I bunk down in his room or see if the hotel has an empty room. Now go to sleep.”

“Urs?” she mumbled, as he turned to leave. “Don’t go.”

Urs froze as his hand reached the door handle.

“You can stay here if you like.” she mumbled. “I promise to keep my hands to myself.”

Urs smiled to himself and stepped back from the door.

“I’ll go sleep on the sofa.” Urs replied. “Not that I don’t trust you.”

“Stay here with me, please.” Kristina said, as she rolled over to face him in the doorway. “Just until I fall asleep, then you can sleep on the sofa if that’s what you want.”

Urs walked over to the bed and took off his boots. He laid down on the bed, on top of the sheets, facing Kristina. Kristina blinked several times to keep herself awake but it was futile. Soon she was fast asleep. Urs took her hand in his and watched her sleep for a little while but it wasn’t long before Urs fell asleep too.

***** CHAPTER 87 *****

When Kristina woke it was still dark, she had only been asleep a couple of hours. She wondered if she had been dreaming but then she heard his breathing. Urs was laying next to her. Hearing him breathe was a comfort and somehow a reassuring noise, if only to remind her that he was still there. Kristina began to think back to how he had ended up there. She had felt ill and Urs had bought her back to her room. Kristina remembered him telling her that Saskia didn’t want him around and maybe it was for purely selfish reasons but Kristina had offered him a place to stay. She needed to be with him. Kristina had told Urs there was nothing to worry about. Who was she trying to convince, Urs or herself? She knew what the side effects were from her medication and that sometimes she would need to change it but this was different. The symptoms were the same as before, when her kidneys started to fail, the painful headaches, the tiredness. Except Kristina only had one working kidney now, Abigail’s. What would happen if that failed? There was no other family member who could be a suitable donor. Kristina started to quietly cry, when she suddenly realised that if she was ill, she wouldn’t be so lucky in finding a donor this time. Kristina let out a small sob and quickly covered her mouth, for fear of waking Urs. But it was too late.

“Hey, what's wrong?” Urs whispered, as he moved closer to Kristina, gently resting a hand on her shoulder.

Kristina let out another small sob and suddenly Urs pulled her to him and he was cradling her in his arms.

“Please tell me what’s wrong, Krissy.” Urs asked, softly. “You know you can tell me anything.”

"What if I am sick, Urs? What if there’s something wrong with my kidney? I can’t go through all that again." she found herself telling him through the rush of tears.

“Oh Krissy.” he murmured, gently stroking her hair. "I’m sure you’re worrying about nothing. But I know you’re strong, if you are ill, you can get through it.”

Kristina looked at him, she could just make out his face in the moonlight that shone through the gap in the curtains. His eyes were sincere, his expression stern and sure, and she desperately wanted to believe him. But how could she? She’d had these symptoms before and she knew it could only mean one thing. Tears ran down her face again.

Urs cradled her head against his shoulder and spoke soothingly to her. “I know you’re worried but everything will be okay, Krissy. I‘m sure the doctor will tell you everything is fine and that you‘re worrying about nothing.”

Even though she couldn't foresee this all working out, Kristina found herself believing him. Suddenly, it didn't matter that he was in love with her because of Aimee. At that moment, Kristina had to be with him, to be held by him. He was all that mattered to her.

She wasn’t sure why but Kristina continued to cry and all the while, Urs was there, holding her. When she stopped crying, Kristina was reluctant to leave his arms, so she laid there, listening to his heartbeat and enjoying the feeling of being close to him.

Urs looked at Kristina, who had now drifted off to sleep. He was genuinely worried about her. But Kristina knew more about her illness than he did, and maybe she was right, perhaps she just needed to change her medication. After all, she told him that it had happened before. Urs knew how sick Kristina had been and hoped she was right, that she was tired and it wasn’t anything more serious. But then if it was just a case of changing her medication, why was Kristina crying? Was there something she wasn’t telling him? What if she was sick? What if he lost her? Urs closed his eyes tightly, trying to hold back the tears. She couldn’t die, he loved her. Urs continued to watch Kristina sleep, his heart aching for her. That’s when Urs realised that he had made his decision.

“I love you, Krissy.” Urs whispered, gently wiping a few remaining tears from her face. “I won’t let anything or anyone take you away from me this time.”

When Kristina woke again, it was light. She moved slightly to get comfortable, when Urs mumbled something and pulled her closer to him. He still had his arms wrapped around her, she guessed that’s how they fell asleep. Although she probably should have told him to leave, Kristina found his embrace too comforting to resist but she knew not to touch him. He was not hers. Yes, they had kissed before but this was different. He was lying next to her, the temptation for things to go further was too much, at least for her. Instead, she found herself studying his shoulder, how it curved onto his arm. She noticed the way his side sloped down into his waist, how his hip sloped up. She then pulled back slowly as not to wake Urs, and looked at his face. She quietly sighed, thinking that she would do anything to wake up every morning and see the face of the man she loved. His dark curls lay spread on the pillow. She reached out and rubbed a lock of his hair between her thumb and forefinger, she felt its softness, and let it fall back on the pillow. She tried to take in everything about him, knowing that soon he would wake and she wouldn’t be able to look at him this way without him knowing for certain that she still loved him. For this short moment, he was hers. Kristina longed for him to wake up, open his eyes, smile at her, and then kiss her. She longed for him to tell her that he loved her and that Aimee meant nothing to him. She longed to make love to the man that had become a part of her, heart and soul, to show him just how much he meant to her. It was all wishful thinking but for now she was just happy to be this close to him.

Kristina reached out to him again, this time gently running the backs of her fingers down his cheek.

“I love you.” she whispered. “Always.”

Urs stirred from his sleep. He was sure that he heard a voice, a woman’s voice, Kristina’s voice, telling him that she loved him, always. But maybe he was dreaming, after all, those were the exact words he had said to Kristina at the hospital. He slowly opened his eyes and looked at Kristina. She looked peaceful as she lay there, one arm over his waist, her head against his chest. Urs smiled to himself, pulling her closer to him and closed his eyes.

********

The alarm sounded and woke both Kristina and Urs. Urs let go of Kristina and she rolled over, switched the alarm off and rolled back to face Urs.

“Sleep well?” Urs asked, smiling.

“Yes, thank you.” Kristina replied, smiling back.

“How do you feel?” Urs asked, softly.

“Better.” Kristina replied, still smiling. “And thanks for staying last night.”

“That’s alright.” Urs said. “But I should be thanking you for giving me somewhere to sleep.”

“I wouldn’t have slept, not knowing if you had somewhere to stay.” Kristina said, blushing a little.

Urs smiled.

“And if I’m completely honest, I just didn’t want to be alone last night.” Kristina continued “But I feel really silly now.”

“There’s no need for you to feel like that.” Urs said, quietly, as he brushed a stray her from her face. “You didn’t feel well, you were probably scared.”

“I still am.” Kristina confessed, as she looked away from Urs.

“You have every reason to be scared.” Urs said, faintly. “But… what makes you think it might be your kidney? Are you sure you haven’t been overdoing it and it’s just caught up with you?”

“This is different from the usual side effects, Urs.” Kristina said, the smile disappearing from her face completely. “I know something’s wrong. I can sense it.”

Urs gently caressed her cheek and tilted her face up to look at him.

“Did you want me to come with you…” Urs asked. “…when you go to the doctors?”

“I…don’t know.” Kristina stuttered.

“Or is Tyler going with you?” Urs said, quickly, suddenly thinking that she might not want him there.

“No, I haven’t mentioned the appointment to anyone apart from Carlos and Abigail.” Kristina replied. “It’s supposed to be a normal six month check up.”

“I’ll come with you, if you’d like me to.” Urs said, smiling.

Kristina thought about it. She definitely needed someone to go with her, she was scared of what the doctor might say. But was Urs the right person? She was worried that if it was bad news, she would let all her defences down and tell Urs she loved him which would only complicate things.

“You don’t have to give me answer now.” Urs said, when he could that she was unsure of what to say. “But if you want me to go with you, just say the word.”

“Thank you, Urs.” Kristina said, smiling.

“You’re welcome.” Urs said, as he pulled her to him and hugged her tightly.

“Urs… you’re squashing me.” Kristina said, giggling.

“Sorry.” Urs said, loosening his grip but not letting go of her.

Urs looked at Kristina who seemed to be watching him, intently. He loved her so much and longed to tell her again but he knew now wasn’t the time. Urs needed to talk to Saskia and Kristina had more important things on her mind, her health. All he could do was smile at Kristina and hope that she saw the love in his eyes.

Kristina looked at Urs, who had a big smile on his face. Was that smile for her or for Aimee? She looked in to his eyes and saw the sparkle in them. Again, she couldn’t help wondering if that was because of her or Aimee.

“We should get up.” Kristina said, as she gently pushed away from Urs and slid out from underneath the covers. “You don’t want to be late.”

“You’re right.” Urs said, sighing, as he got off the bed. “You know what I’m like for time keeping.”

“Did you want to shower here before you leave?” Kristina asked, blushing at the thought of Urs, naked.

Urs must’ve read her mind, she’d have to remember that in future, or cure her blushing.

“It’s alright.” Urs said, grinning at her. “I think I’m safer showering on my own.”

“I didn’t mean it like that, Urs Buhler.” Kristina said, picking up a pillow and throwing it at him.

Urs ducked and the pillow hit the door behind him with a dull thud.

“Careful, you’ll get the neighbours talking.” Urs said, chuckling, as he picked up the pillow and threw it on to the bed.

“Urs.” Kristina said, suddenly, when she saw him turn and start to open the door.

Urs turned back to see Kristina walking towards him.

“I know I’ve already said it but thank you.” Kristina said, as she hugged him. “Thank you for staying with me last night.”

“I’m just glad that me being there helped.” Urs said, hugging her back. “I’d better go now though.”

They gently pulled away from each other.

“I nearly forgot.” Urs said, as he went to the desk and started to write something down.

“Here, have this.” Urs said, as he walked towards Kristina and handed her a piece of paper. “I know you can probably get it through work but it’s my mobile number.”

Kristina took the piece of paper from him and smiled as Urs then turned and opened the door again.

“If you ever need to talk, just call me okay?” Urs said, caressing her cheek. “It doesn’t matter what time it is.”

“Thanks, Urs.” Kristina said, smiling as tears began to fill her eyes. “I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome.” Urs said, as he leant in and kissed her on the cheek. “I’ll see you later.”

As Urs stepped out in to the corridor, Kristina quietly closed the door behind him and leant against it. She was a mixture of emotions. She was worried about the doctors appointment, worried that she might be ill again, she was worried that if she was ill, how did she tell her family? But most of all, at this very moment, she felt happy. It was a comforting thought to know that if she was ill, if the worst came to the worst, at least in this life time, one wish had come true. She had spent the night, in the arms of the man she loved.

As Urs headed back to his hotel room, he put his hands in his pockets, smiling to himself. He might have only been sleeping on the bed covers but Urs had spent the night, holding Kristina. He had gone to sleep, with her in his arms, listening to her breathing. He had woken up, with her still in his arms, smiling at him. It was a dream come true for him. But there was one problem. He had made his decision, he just wasn’t sure what to do next.

Urs jumped, when someone tapped him on the shoulder.

“Please don’t tell me you spent the night with Kristina.” the voice said.

***** CHAPTER 88 *****

“Julianna!” Urs said, as he turned around and saw his sister.

“Urs.” she replied, staring at him.

“Don’t look at me like that.” Urs said, before nervously biting his bottom lip. “Nothing happened. It’s not what you’re thinking.”

“Oh?” Julianna said, crossing her arms. “And tell me dear brother, what am I thinking?”

“Can we go somewhere else and talk?” Urs said, lowering his voice as two people emerged from a room beside them and walked by.

“Let’s go to my room.” Julianna replied, as she turned and started to walk away. Urs followed. “So, what happened?” Julianna asked, closing the door when Urs had followed her inside.

“Nothing happened. Me and Kristina didn’t… you know.” Urs answered, blushing. “I slept on the covers, I didn’t even get undressed.”

“So what were you doing there?” Julianna asked. “I know Saskia threw you out because I phoned your room last night and she told me what happened. I thought you would have asked Seb or even me, if you could share a room, not Kristina.”

“She needed me.” Urs replied, looking away from Julianna’s angry stare.

“And Saskia doesn’t?” Julianna said, with raised eyebrows.

“Saskia refused to talk to me.” Urs replied. “I didn’t want to make things worse, so I did as she asked. I left.”

“And you think that staying with Kristina for the night, isn’t making things worse?” Julianna asked.

“You’re not going to tell her, are you?” Urs said, worriedly. “It was totally innocent. Nothing happened.”

“Yes, you keep saying.” Julianna said. “So why did she need you? What was so important that you had to stay with her?”

“After Saskia told me to leave, I went for a walk.” Urs replied, faintly. “I went up to the castle, where we filmed the video. I’d only been there for a few minutes when Kristina arrived.”

Urs paused for a moment, briefly remembering his time with Kristina, talking to her, holding her.

“And?” Julianna said. “I’m waiting.”

“We talked… about why she was leaving.” Urs continued. “And… and we said our goodbyes.”

“If you were saying your goodbyes, I take it you’ve made your decision?” Julianna commented . “Does that mean you’ve accepted the fact that she’s leaving?”

Urs didn’t reply.

“Urs?” Julianna said, a few seconds later, when Urs still hadn’t replied.

“I’ve made my decision.” Urs replied, looking at his sister. “I can‘t forget her, Julianna.”

“So that’s it? Julianna said, throwing her hands up in the air. “You’re going to give up a perfectly good relationship with Saskia, for a woman who insists she doesn’t love you.”

“Julianna, you don’t know all the facts.” Urs said, quietly.

“So tell me, Urs.” Julianna said, frowning when she saw the worried look on her brothers face. “What don’t I know?”

“When we left the castle last night… something happened to Kristina.” Urs said, frowning. “She almost collapsed. I bought her back to the hotel and we went to her room. I wanted to make sure she was okay.”

“And was she?” Julianna asked.

“She was tired.” Urs replied, slowly shaking his head. “She was really tired, and she had this painful headache. I helped her get to bed and then she asked me if I had anywhere to stay.”

“You told her Saskia that asked you to leave?” Julianna asked.

“Yes, like I said, we talked.” Urs said. “I was going to sleep on the sofa but she asked me to stay with her until she fell asleep. I think she was scared.”

“Scared? Of what?” Julianna said, puzzled.

“Being alone. She’s… she’s worried that….” Urs hung his head and closed his eyes.

Julianna could see the troubled look on her brothers face.

“What’s wrong, Urs?” Julianna asked, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Kristina’s worried that she might be sick again.” Urs said, weakly. “She thinks her kidney might be failing. You see Julianna, that’s why I couldn’t leave her last night, not like that.

“Oh Urs, I’m sorry.” Julianna said, hugging him.

“I can’t give up on her.” Urs said, pulling away from Julianna. “I can’t. If she is ill… she needs me, I want Kristina to know, that I’m here for her.”

“I understand what you‘re saying, Urs.” Julianna said, reassuringly. “But are you sure you’re doing this for the right reasons?”

“What do you mean?” Urs asked, confused.

“I mean, are you sure you love her?” Julianna replied. “Are you sure it’s not just… pity or guilt, for being so hard on her when you met up again? I know you said that you argued a lot.”

“It’s not pity or guilt.” Urs replied, firmly. “I love her.”

“Urs, you’ve got to be sensible about this.” Julianna commented. “If you’re certain you’re doing the right thing, then you need to tell Saskia… and soon. It’s not fair on her.”

“I know I’ve got to tell Saskia.” Urs said, faintly. “But perhaps I should wait until we’re back in London.”

“That might be best.” Julianna agreed. “But Urs, what happens when Kristina leaves for New York? You have to be in London and then you’ll be going to Sweden to record the album.”

“Maybe I should quit the group.” Urs said, thoughtfully. “Then I could go to New York and be with Krissy. I can go back to singing opera.”

“Urs, you’re not thinking clearly!” Julianna exclaimed. “I know she might be ill, but you can’t give up your career for Kristina. Il Divo is a big thing for you.”

“It doesn’t mean a thing, if I’m not happy, Julianna.” Urs said, honestly. “And I won’t be happy until I’m with Krissy.”

“Urs, I hate to ask this.” Julianna said, hesitantly. “But you haven’t forgotten that Kristina’s seeing Tyler, have you? He’s the whole reason she’s going to New York.”

“I haven’t forgotten” Urs said, shrugging his shoulders. “Kristina won’t leave and Tyler… he doesn’t concern me.”

“What are you going to do?” Julianna asked, warily.

“What makes you think I’m going to do anything?” Urs replied.

“Because you seem very confident that Kristina will stay in London.” Julianna answered. “Has she said something to make you think differently?”

“Kristina hasn’t said anything.” Urs replied. “But she knows there’s still something there between us. When it comes to it, I don’t think she will be able to leave.”

“For your sake, I hope you’re right, Urs.” Julianna said, slowly shaking her head. “I would hate to see you disappointed if you’re wrong.”

Then came a knock at the door. Julianna went to answer it.

“Hi Julianna, I just wondered if you wanted to join me for breakfast.” Saskia asked.

“Hi Saskia.” Julianna replied, as she stepped aside, so that Urs was visible. “I was just about to go down.”

“Hello Saskia.” Urs said, quietly, as he shuffled his feet nervously.

“Hello Urs.” Saskia said, giving a weak smile.

“I’ll leave you two to talk.” Julianna said, quickly making her exit.

“So did you stay here last night?” Saskia asked.

“I…er… yes.” Urs lied. Saskia didn’t deserve to be lied to but how could Urs tell her, that he stayed with Kristina.

“I‘m sorry about last night.” Saskia said, faintly. “But I was angry with you… and upset.”

“Saskia, please don’t apologise.” Urs said, guiltily. “You have every right to be mad at me.”

The two then stood in an uncomfortable silence. Saskia was hoping that Urs would apologise and tell her that he had made a mistake, he didn’t love Kristina. But it didn’t look as if that was going to happen. Urs wasn’t sure what to say to Saskia. He wanted to tell her that everything would be alright, that things would be fine between them. But Urs knew things would never be the same again.

“I hate doing this but I need to leave.” Urs said, breaking the silence. “I need to shower and change before the photo shoot. But we do need to talk.”

“Okay.” Saskia said, weakly, as she turned and opened the door. “I guess I’ll see you later then.”

Urs gave Saskia a kiss goodbye, on the cheek and Saskia left.

Saskia knew that they had to talk but she saw something in Urs’ eyes that told her she wasn’t going to like what he had to say.

***** CHAPTER 89 *****

After Urs had left, Kristina had showered and changed, then gone downstairs to meet Tyler. The night before, they had arranged to have breakfast together but Kristina wasn’t hungry. She hadn’t eaten much the night before either, she seemed to have lost her appetite. Kristina had tried to eat something but she felt sick and nauseous so in the end she gave up. Tyler had finished his breakfast and then both him and Kristina had made their way to the photo shoot location. Cars had been arranged to take them all there. When they arrived, Sebastien, Carlos, David and Urs had been briefly introduced to Kaitlin Winters, the photographer, then shown to a small building nearby, where they were to change and have their make up done. Mel and Julianna had followed them. Abigail, Anna and Saskia had found a small café across the square, so they were still in sight of the photo shoot and could see what was happening. But in the mean time, they got back to planning the party for the following weekend.

While the guys were changing, Kristina and Tyler had continued to talk to Kaitlin.

“So have any of these guys done a photo shoot before?” Kaitlin asked, as she pulled out the file, that Kristina had sent her earlier that week.

“Sebastien has done a couple.” Kristina replied. “He was a solo pop artist before joining the group. David has done a few but they were done through the stage companies that he worked for, I don’t think it was anything quite like this. I‘m not sure about Carlos and Urs.”

“Well, it shouldn’t be a problem.” Kaitlin said, smiling. “It’s not hard to do and they all look very photogenic. I couldn‘t believe it when you told me that these guys were classical singers. I thought maybe you had made a mistake, they look like models! Especially these two.” Kaitlin added, as she pointed to the pictures of Sebastien and Urs.”

“It’s amazing what makeup can do these days.” Tyler said, half joking and half serious.

“Oh I know.” Kaitlin replied. “But it can only do so much. When you work with guys who look like this, it just makes my job a lot easier.”

A short time later and they were ready to start.

“Wow!” Kaitlin exclaimed, when Carlos, Sebastien, David and Urs started walking towards them, all dressed in black suits, white shirts and black ties, except for Urs who had a black and white striped tie, a red rose in their lapel, with white pocket handkerchiefs.

“How come Urs has a striped tie?” Kaitlin asked, looking at Mel. “The other three all have black ties.”

“I didn’t want them to all look the same.” Mel replied. “And I didn’t want them looking like they’re on their way to a funeral again. I just thought it would it break it up a bit and Urs volunteered for the odd tie. I guess he wanted to be noticed.”

Mel then glanced at Kristina.

“Looks like it worked too.” Mel casually remarked, smirking when she noticed Kristina watching Urs walk towards them.

Kristina heard Mel’s comment and quickly looked away. If Tyler had heard Mel’s comment or seen Kristina looking at Urs, he never said anything.

“So where do you want us?” Carlos asked, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Carlos!” David said, nudging him in the side. “You’re a married man.”

“I know.” Carlos replied, grinning. “But I can’t help flirt with a lovely lady, it’s all my part of my Spanish charm. Abby knows I only have eyes for her.”

“Good job, she does.” Sebastien said, laughing. “Or you would be a ‘dead’ married man by now.”

“How about we do some group shots seeing as you’re all ready.” Kaitlin said, picking up her camera. “We’ve already got the equipment set up over here.” she added, pointing to a doorway, with several steps leading down to the square.

Kaitlin then told the four of them where to sit on the steps, before giving instructions to the rest of the team, where they made changes with lighting, Mel straightened their outfits while Julianna quickly checked their makeup.

The photo shoot had been going well, the weather was perfect, everyone was in a good mood and Kaitlin had no problems in getting the shots she wanted. David and Sebastien had been making jokes all morning, keeping everyone happy. The time seemed to pass quickly and it wasn’t long before they were on the individual photo sessions.

Carlos had insisted that he went first so that he could go and spend some time with Abigail, no-one objected. He had finished his photo session and was now getting changed. Kaitlin had decided that they all take a break so Mel had made a bee-line for Tyler, while Urs had seen his chance to talk to Kristina. She was sitting on her own, reading through some paperwork.

“Don’t you think they make a lovely couple?” Mel remarked, to Tyler. “I couldn’t help noticing yesterday, the way they act when they’re around each other. It’s subtle little things, I guess they have to keep it quiet though, working together. But it‘s so blindingly obvious they‘re in love.”

“Who?” Tyler asked, looking at Mel.

“Those two.” Mel replied, nodding at Kristina and Urs.

Tyler looked in their direction and saw Urs sitting next to Kristina, talking to each other.

“I think you’ve made a mistake.” Tyler said, calmly. “There’s nothing going on with Urs and Kristina.”

“No?” Mel said, casually. “Well, I heard that she was seeing some one here and I assumed it was Urs. You’re not seeing anyone are you?” she added, smiling sweetly at him. “Perhaps we could go out for dinner tonight.”

“Actually I am seeing someone.” Tyler said, smiling politely at Mel. “Kristina. So I‘m afraid I‘ll have to turn down your invitation to dinner.”

“Can’t blame a girl for trying.” Mel said, sighing. But she was determined not to be put off so easily. “I’m sorry for the comment about Urs and Kristina, I’m always getting things wrong.”

“That’s okay.” Tyler said. “I guess it’s an easy mistake to make. But if you’ll excuse me, we should get back to work.” Tyler then walked over to Kaitlin.

“How are you feeling?” Urs asked, as he sat down beside Kristina.

“I’ve felt better.” Kristina said, giving a weak smile.

“Do you still feel tired?” Urs asked.

“A little, it’s more aches and pains than tiredness at the moment.” Kristina replied. “Maybe it‘s old age.” she said, jokingly.

Urs smiled, although he was still concerned. He had been reading up on her illness, in particular, kidney rejection.

“When’s your Doctors appointment?” he asked. “I wondered if you’d thought about our conversation earlier, me coming with you.”

“It’s on Wednesday.” Kristina replied. “And I haven’t decided yet but I haven’t forgotten, Urs.”

“Urs!” Kaitlin called out. “You’re next.”

“Coming!” Urs called back.

He got up from the wall and brushed himself down.

“I’ll see you later.” he said, smiling before turning and heading over to Kaitlin and the others.

Kristina got up a short while after Urs and headed over towards Tyler.

“Tyler, I’m going to take a break.” Kristina said, rubbing her forehead. “Will you be alright on your own for a little while?”

“Of course I will.” Tyler replied. “We’re almost finished here anyway. But are you okay? Don’t you feel well?”

“Nothing serious.” Kristina said, forcing a smile. “Just a headache and I feel a little sick. Maybe it‘s the heat.”

“I’m not surprised you feel sick.” Tyler said worriedly. “You hardly touched your food last night. It was the same this morning, you didn’t eat your breakfast. It’s sunny out here but it’s certainly not hot Kristina, perhaps you’re coming down with a fever.” he said, putting his hand up to her forehead. “You do feel a little hot, why don‘t you go back to the hotel? I can finish up here.”

“No, it’s alright.” Kristina replied. “I’ll wait for you and then we can go back together. I’ll just go and sit down in the shade.”

Tyler watched as Kristina walked away and sat in the shade of a small doorway. She closed her eyes and found some relief when she rested her head on the cold stone wall. She really did feel hot, maybe she was coming down with a fever, she was beginning to worry a little.

Kristina had only been sitting down for about twenty minutes when she heard someone approaching her. But she was tired and didn’t open her eyes, hoping that they would walk on by and leave her in peace.

“I see you still can‘t keep away from our Mr Buhler.” a female voice said.

Kristina’s eyes flew open, instantly recognising the voice.

“What are you doing here, Stephanie?” Kristina asked, her heart still racing from the shock.

“I just happen to be in a theatre production not far from here.” Stephanie replied. “I thought I might do a little sight-seeing, I certainly never expected to see you here.”

“Well, I can definitely say you were the last person I expected to see.” Kristina said, glaring at Stephanie. “In fact you’re the ‘last’ person I want to see.”

“That’s no way to treat a long lost friend.” Stephanie said, sarcastically.

“We’ve never been friends, Stephanie and you know damn well why not.” Kristina snapped. She really didn’t have the energy for Stephanie’s little mind games. Usually she wouldn’t let someone like Stephanie get to her but she was so tired, all she wanted was for Stephanie to leave. “Now is there something you wanted or did you just come here to be annoying?” she added, as she tilted her head, trying to see where Urs was.

“I saw you here and thought I would come over and say hello.” Stephanie replied, moving slightly so that Kristina’s view was blocked.

“Well, you’ve said hello.” Kristina replied. “Now why don’t you do us all a favour and take a long walk off a short pier.”

“Oh my, how you’ve changed.” Stephanie said, calmly. “You’re no longer the quiet little thing, that I used to know. Or perhaps you’ve always been like this, you’ve kept this side of you hidden from Urs. I wonder if he knows what you’re really like.”

“Just go, Stephanie.” Kristina said, looking away, her voice unsteady as she started to feel nauseous again. “You and me have got nothing else to say.”

“I can’t believe you’re not pleased to see me.” Stephanie said, smirking, sensing the uneasiness in Kristina’s voice.

“Can you blame me?” Kristina spat. “You pushed me the down stairs. I could’ve had you arrested.”

“No but you didn’t, did you.” Stephanie replied. “Because you knew that it would mean explaining everything to David. He would find out that you and Urs spent the night together.”

“We did ‘not’ spend the night together.” Kristina said firmly. “When are you going to get that through that thick skull of yours?”

“I don’t care if you did or you didn’t.” Stephanie said, shrugging her shoulders. “It doesn’t matter to me anymore.”

“Oh…why not?” Kristina said, suspiciously.

“Because it suddenly dawned on me that the only reason Urs was attracted to you was because of Aimee.” Stephanie replied. “I found some old photos a few weeks back and I realised that you look a lot like her. Has he told you about her?”

“Are you going to leave or do I have to go?” Kristina asked. She couldn‘t take any more of this. How many more times would she have to be reminded that the only reason Urs wanted to be anywhere near her was because of Aimee?

“Why?” Stephanie said, smirking again. “Are you afraid what might happen if I stay? Who are you trying to steal him away from this time?”

“I’m not trying to steal him away from anyone.” Kristina said, rubbing her forehead. She was beginning to feel sick. “I already have a boyfriend, not that it’s anything to do with you.”

“Well, it didn’t seem to stop you going after Urs when you were with David.” Stephanie said, sneering at Kristina. “Why should this time be any different?”

“Think what you like, Stephanie.” Kristina said, getting to her feet. “I don’t care anymore.”

Kristina suddenly felt dizzy and reached out and grabbed Stephanie’s arm for support.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Stephanie snapped.

“I… I don’t feel well.” Kristina mumbled.

“Don’t give me that.” Stephanie spat. “It‘s some feeble attempt at trying to make me feel guilty. Well it won‘t work.”

“I’m feel sick.” Kristina said, weakly, holding on tightly to her for support. “Please… get someone.”

“Get your hands off me.” Stephanie snapped, pushing Kristina away so that she fell back on the steps.

Urs had just finished his photo session and was about to head back to his room to change when he had noticed Kristina talking to a woman. He then saw her fall back on the steps and ran straight over to check on her.

“Are you okay, Krissy?” Urs asked, quickly kneeling beside her.

“Please tell her to go.” Kristina said, weakly.

Urs looked up at the woman beside him. He hadn’t looked at her until now, he was more concerned about Kristina.

“Hello Urs.” Stephanie said, calmly. “It’s been a while.”

“Yes it has.” Urs replied, coldly. “But not long enough. I was hoping never to set eyes on you again.” Urs then turned away and slid an arm around Kristina’s waist, helping her to her feet. “Come on Krissy, let’s get you back to the hotel.”

“I think I’m going to be sick.” Kristina said faintly, before quickly covering her mouth.

“Ignore her, Urs.” Stephanie said, sneering. “It’s all an act, she’s doing it for a sympathy vote.”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, Stephanie.” Urs said, angrily, his eyes blazing. “Now get out of here.”

“It’s a public place.” Stephanie replied. “You can’t make…

“Urs…” Kristina started to say, before she lurched forward and was sick, all down Stephanie’s dress.

“WHAT THE?….oh God, look at me!” Stephanie screamed, as she looked down at her dress.

“You should have left when you had the chance.” Urs said, before taking the white handkerchief from his pocket and handing it to Kristina.

By this time, all the others had seen the commotion and came over to see what it was all about.

“What’s going on?” Tyler asked.

“I don’t feel well.” Kristina mumbled.

“Kristina, what’s wrong?” Abigail said, rushing over to her sister.

“She’s sick.” Urs replied. “We need to get her back to the hotel.”

“I’ll take her.” Tyler said, glaring at Urs. “Thanks for your help, Urs.”

Tyler then gently took Kristina by the arm and led her away from the crowd and back to the car. Urs quickly ran back to his room, to change his clothes. He wanted to get back to the hotel and check on Kristina, that’s if Tyler would let him anywhere near her.

“I’m sorry about the dress.” Saskia said, when the others had left. “Did you want to come back to our hotel and clean up? It’s not far.”

“Yes, thanks.” Stephanie replied, a look of disgust on her face, when she looked down at her dress.

“So, are you and Kristina friends?” Saskia asked, as they walked towards the car.

“Friends?” Stephanie snorted. “I don’t think so, she’s nothing but trouble and she seems have Urs wrapped around her little finger again.”

“What do you mean by that?” Saskia asked. “By the way, my name’s Saskia, I’m Urs’ girlfriend.”

“Girlfriend?” Stephanie said, with raised eyebrows. “Well, it’s nice to meet you Saskia. I think there’s a few things you need to know about Kristina.”