Here With Me. 

 

The mood was high, and still rising as the lads' plane touched down on Dublin airport. "Yessss! Finally home!" Bryan said, throwing his arms up in the air. The lads had been away in the USA for a month, much to Kerry, Kate, Georgina, Sarah and Liz's despair. "Soo… who's going where from now?" Shane asked, looking around at the others. "Home… to Georgina!" Nicky said, smiling at the very thought of her. "First home to unload, then to Kerry." Bryan said, looking to Kian. "Next flight to Manchester to fetch my lovely fiancée, then bring her back home." he said as his mobile beeped. "And Mark? Off to Norway?" Shane asked, and Mark nodded. "Yup, made a promise and I can't nor will I break that! I'm just going there to get her, then we're going back home. We're going house hunting, and teaming up with Kian and Sarah for some planning." he explained as Kian slipped the mobile back in his pocket. "Yup! And you Shane? Edinburgh?" Bryan asked. "Nope." he answered. "What? Why not?" Nicky wondered. "Because Kate's coming here! Her flight will be here in an hour or so." Shane smiled. "Oh, well… I better get going then. I guess we'll see you lot around!" Mark said as he picked up his suitcase. "Yeah, definitely! Have a nice flight." Nicky said. "Thanks, to the ones it concerns … have a nice flight!" They laughed, picked up their bags and suitcases and left for their flights or cars or waiting area. All five lads had big smiles on their faces, just the very thought of their girlfriends and seeing them again did that to them.

 

“Flight D32-S direct from Dublin has just disembarked at Terminal 2.  Could Sarah Harwood please, and I quote ‘move here cute butt in that direction’ unquote, as soon as possible.  Thank you.”  Sarah’s face went bright red as the announcement came over the loud speakers.  Just then her mobile beeped “Wonder who that could have been?! Ki X X X” She laughed as she made her way with her hand luggage to the terminal to be greeted by Kian.  “Hello cute butt!”  He said with a smirk.  “Hi you.”  She answered as they hugged.  “How are you?”  He asked as they walked hand in hand from the terminal.  “Good thanks … great now you’re here.  You?”  “Tired … but I just got off one 8-hour flight and boarded another 1-hour one.”  Sarah laughed.  “I could’ve made it alone you know.”  “Where’s the fun in that?  How long do we have till we fly back?”  “About an hour.”  Sarah said looking at her watch.  “Cool … time for plenty catching up.”  He started.  “Now … how’s about a real welcome.”  He said, taking her in his arms and kissing her passionately in full view of the many people in the airport.  “I can’t wait to get you home.”  He whispered in her ear as they parted lips.  “Be patient … it’ll be worth that wait.”  She whispered back before they kissed again.

 

On another airport in another country, Liz sat waiting for Mark. "Where is he?" she whispered impatiently to her stomach. She smiled thinking about seeing him again, and Sarah and Kian as well. "Wonderful." Her hands stroked her stomach, her pregnancy still not showing yet but she sure knew it was there. "How's my favourite girl doing?" Liz turned her head, and looked into Mark's eyes. "Mark! You're here!" she smiled as he pulled her out of the chair and hugged her. "Course I am!" he smiled back at her, and kissed her softly. "I've missed you so much." Liz said, tears starting to form in her eyes. He laughed and hugged her again. "I've missed you too, babe. Don't cry," he said. "Sorry, hormones." she laughed. Mark placed his hand on her stomach and looked up at her. "How are you doing?" he asked. "Fine, except for the morning rush!" He smiled and kissed her again. "How are the other lads doing? When's our flight leaving?" Liz asked, scanning the departure times. "They're fine, anxious to get home to their girlfriends. Leaving in 20 minutes, so we better go check in." Mark took her bag, and they headed over to their gate. "Can't wait to see Sarah and Kian again!" Liz said. "We'll have so much fun planning, I'm sure." Mark looked at her, and kissed her cheek. "Of course. And we're going house hunting too." he said, and she looked at him with big eyes. "Really? I can't wait!" They laughed, and kissed.

 

“Liz!!”  Sarah screamed running across the airport and hugging her best friend.  “Hi girl!”  Liz said hugging her back.  “How are you?  Hi Mark!”  “I’m great … bit of sickness … but all part of the experience.  You?”  “Fabulous now we’re all back together.”  “Hi Sarah.”  Mark said as he hugged her.  “Hey Kian.”  Liz said as she hugged him.  The four of them stood in a giant hug before heading out to Mark’s 4x4 that was waiting.  They drove to Kian’s first dropping him and Sarah off before going back to Mark’s.  They planned to unpack and then meet up outside the main estate agents in Sligo at 2pm.  At 2 on the dot the four were eagerly stood there looking in awe at the houses in to window.  “Look at that!”  They all said together pointing at a mansion-sized house.  It had 12 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a large kitchen, a dining room, and two lounges.  They all laughed at their synchronised pointing.  “Only £1 and a half million.”  Kian said.  “Anyone else scared by the ‘only’ in that statement?”  Sarah said with a grin.  “Come on … we can afford that easy.  Lets go look.  Imagine it … us for living together.”  “I love how this boy thinks!”  Sarah said as the four of them went inside to organise a viewing of their dream home, each imagining how much fun living together would be.

 

"So we will meet at the house in half an hour." the estate agent looked at them, and they all nodded. "Thank you." Kian said, shaking his hand. Sarah and Liz looked at each other with shining eyes, and squealed of happiness the second they were back on the street again. "This is absolutely fabulous!" Sarah said. "I know! Can't wait to see it!" Liz said, and the two lads smiled at them. "You're weird, you know that?" Mark said. Sarah and Liz both nodded in sync. "Yup!" The lads laughed, and escorted them into the car. "Let's go see it then!"  After taking a little detour due to Liz's excellent map reading, they arrived at the house forty minutes later. The girls sat with their mouths open staring at the mansion in front of them. "Wow… it's huge!" Sarah said, getting out. "Ah, there you are. Did you have trouble finding the way?" the estate agent smiled at them. "Erm… kind of." Kian said, looking at Liz. "Shut up!" she laughed. "Well… Shall we?" He unlocked the door, and held to open for them. They entered and were led through the house room by room. "This is magnificent!" Liz said, taking Mark's arm. "I know. What do you say Kian?" he nudged Kian, who turned with a grin. "I say I've got money to spend!" Mark nodded in return. "Same here, mate!" Sarah and Liz looked up at their fiancés, then at each other. "I'm not sure I heard you right," Liz said. "Come again?" Kian and Mark laughed. "How would you girls like to live together? In this house? Forever? With us, and children?" Kian asked. "I'm gonna pass out!" Sarah said. "Well..?" Mark looked at them. Liz looked at Sarah, and two big smiles appeared on their faces. "We love you!!!" they shouted, throwing themselves around the lads' necks. "Thought so." Kian laughed, hugging Sarah tightly. "Where shall we sign, Mr. Watson?" Mark asked. The estate agent smiled at them, and nodded slightly. "If you'll come back to the office tomorrow I'll have all the papers ready for you, Mr. Feehily." he answered.

 

“Put that box down Liz!!”  Mark shouted as he jogged over.  “You shouldn't be carrying things in your condition.”  “Sweet that you care but I’m not going to break you know?  Now go help Kian with the heavy stuff whilst me and Sarah find the kettle and make some cups of tea!”  Mark smiled and jogged back to Kian who was trying to push the sofa into the lounge.  Today was officially titled “Moving Day.”  The four of them with a little help from their friends were moving into their dream house.  “Where on earth is the kettle in that lot?”  Liz said as she looked at the pile of boxes that was forming in the kitchen.  “I have no idea … but I do have the sugar!”  Sarah said with a grin holding up a bag.  Liz laughed.  Suddenly a bang followed by a yell came from the lounge and they ran in to find Kian and Mark led on the floor.  “What happened?”  Mark smiled, and then started laughing.  “Told you Kian.”  “Told him what?”  Sarah said.  “That if we made a loud bang and yelled you’d dash in here.”  Kian said as he stood up.  “So you aren’t hurt … you were just messing?”  Liz said.  “Yep.”  Mark said.  “Ok Sarah … no tea for them.”  Liz said as they went back to the kitchen.  “Aww!!”  The lads moaned as they went, but the girls took no notice.  “Ouch!”  Liz shouted, and Mark and Kian sped in.  “What?  The baby? Are you ok?”  Mark shouted.  Liz laughed.  “Man … you should have seen that coming!”  “Playing with you Mark I think.”  Kian said.  “Liz that isn’t funny.”  Mark said.  “Oh and the prospect of you hurting yourself is?”  She said.  “It was just a joke.”  “And this was just payback … I’m fine … lets keep unpacking.”  Liz said as she hugged Mark and started to find the kettle.  Sarah and Kian just grinned at each other as he and Mark went to fetch the armchairs.

 

"They're mad!" Liz shook her head as she and Sarah rambled through the boxes searching for the kettle. "I know, but so cute." Sarah smiled, and they laughed. "Don't I know it! Yes, finally!" Liz exclaimed, pulling the kettle out of a box. "Wahey! Congrats to you for finding it. Now … where did we put the cups..?" Sarah said, restarting her search. After rummaging through mostly every box in the kitchen, the girls called the lads in for tea. "Nobody's hurt themselves?" Kian asked and laughed. "Ha ha Kian!" the others said sarcastically. "So lads… how do you want your teas? Milk? Sugar?" Sarah asked. "I think I'll take some sugar," Kian said with a smirk and pulled her over to where he sat. "Kian, behave!" she said as he kissed her. Liz and Mark laughed. "Please you two! We're trying to have our teas here!" Liz said, but Kian and Sarah took no notice of her. "Don't mind them, babe. Come here!" Mark said, kissing her. "Mind who?" she smiled. "So… who wants which bedroom?" Kian asked, causing Mark and Liz to part bursting out in hysterics. "Nice timing!" Sarah grinned. "Hey, I'm serious here!" Kian said, and pulled Sarah with him up the grand staircase. "It is 12 to choose from." Mark and Liz followed them upstairs. "You girls can choose." Kian said, letting go of Sarah as she and Liz disappeared into one of the many rooms. "Mark!" Liz called after a while. "Coming!" he said, heading in the direction her voice came from. "What do you think about this one? It's even connected to another smaller room. We could make that a nursery." She looked up at him and smiled. "I love it." he said, hugging her. "Yo Egans! We've found our room!" Mark shouted out the door. "Us too!" came the answer.

 

“Do you think we are like the luckiest people in the world?”  Sarah said to Liz that evening whilst the lads went out to get essential supplies.  “Why?”  “Well … we live in this amazing house together … we are engaged to the most fantastic guys ever … and they are out shopping for us whilst we lounge about here … does life get any better?”  Liz smiled.  “Yes … in about 7 and a half months my life will be complete … when junior here puts in an appearance.”  She said rubbing her stomach.  “True.  I just can’t believe how lucky we are.  I mean … I’ve been thinking back to when we met them – remember?”  Liz laughed.  “How can I ever forget – you and me ringing round local hotels trying to find out where they were staying then nonchalantly walking into the lobby?  We are so lucky Kian was there or that guy behind the check in desk would have kicked us out.”  Sarah laughed.  “Oh I know … all those dodgy looks.  Thank god Kian walked across … I’ll never forget the first time I saw him … wow.  I nearly died when he signed that photo with his name and mobile number.”  Liz grinned.  “Yeah I did notice!  Then Mark came out the lift …”  “And you turned to jelly!”  Sarah joked.  “I know … how embarrassing.  But he was such a sweetheart.  Pretty cute too!”  Just then the girls heard sniggering behind them and turned to see Kian and Mark stood in the doorway with big grins on their faces.  “How long have you been standing there?”  Liz asked.  “Long enough!”  Mark said with a cheeky grin.  “You know I think I am more embarrassed then when I turned to jelly.”  Liz said.  “Me too.”  Sarah said.  Kian walked over to Sarah.  “I thought you were wow that day too … but now … words can’t describe.”  He said as he kissed her softly.  “Don’t be embarrassed Liz … I’m not embarrassed about being a sweetheart!”  Mark said still smirking.  “Shut it Mark!”  She said chucking a cushion at him as the others laughed.

 

Sarah awoke when Kian pulled the curtains, and the sunshine flowed in. "Good morning babe!" he said, kissing her. "Morning." She sat up in bed, and swung her feet onto the floor. "Did you sleep well?" she asked. "Wonderful! And knowing that you were right next to me... even better." Kian grinned. "Aww!" she said and kissed him. "Come on, let's go make some breakfast. I'm hungry!" Kian grabbed her hand and they walked out of their bedroom. "Morning you two." Liz smiled at them as she and Mark came out of their room. "Morning. How was your first night in our new home?" Kian asked, and Liz and Sarah smiled widely when he said 'our new home'. "Wonderful!" Mark said. "Great. Anyone for breakfast?" Sarah asked, and the three others nodded. "Sounds wonderful, I'm hungry." Liz said as they headed over to the stairs. Mark and Kian looked at each other and smiled. "Race ya!" they both shouted, and jumped up on the railings. "Be careful! You could hurt yourselves!" the girls shouted after them as they slid down. Just as they had reached the end they looked up at them, and Mark lost his balance falling backwards onto the floor. Sarah and Liz shook their heads, and hurried down the steps. "Mark, are you all right?" Liz asked, hurrying over to Mark who lay laughing on his back. "Looks like it!" Kian said, grabbing Sarah by her waist and carried her into the kitchen. "Oooh, my bum!" Mark said, trying to choke his laughter. "You scared me! Don't do that again!" Liz said, slapping his arm. "Aww! Sorry, didn't mean to fall!" he said, still laughing a little. "Argh!" Liz uttered, and walked into the kitchen. "How is he?" Sarah smiled. "Fine!" Liz answered as Mark came into the kitchen after her. "How are you, Mark? Didn't break anything, did ya mate?" Kian asked, and Mark laughed. "Nope, just bruised Liz's love for me I think. And I kinda hurt my bum!" Kian and Sarah both laughed. "What do you mean bruised her love for you?" Sarah asked. "I scared her when I fell down, and now she's mad at me." Mark explained. "Ooh, better go fix it then." Kian nodded over to where Liz was standing, and Mark walked over. "That was the plan, Egan!" he joked. "Well, while they are making up, what do you say we pass the time constructively?" Kian looked at Sarah with a smirk. "And what did you have in mind?" she asked. "Oh, just this…" he said, and kissed her.

 

By the time breakfast was made, eaten and washed up, Liz and Mark had made up and Kian and Sarah had put each other down!  “So … whats today’s plan?”  Kian asked as he and Sarah went upstairs to get dressed.  “Well … you and Mark have wallpaper to hang and paint to do all over … whilst me and Liz arrange furniture and shop for bits and pieces.”  Kian laughed.  “I like how me and Mark get to work whilst you two shop!!”  “Well it’s what we do best!”  “No it’s not.”  Kian said pulling her down onto him as he sat on the edge of the bed and kissed her passionately.  “Ok … let’s … Ki … work … behave … mmm … stop!”  Sarah said between kisses.  “Aww spoil sport!”  Kian said as he stopped.  “Tell you what … you be a good little boy and decorate and tonight … well … I’ll be a very good sport – deal?”  “Where’s the wallpaper?”  Kian said jumping up.  “Kian - you are not decorating in your boxer shorts … no matter how sexy you look!”  Sarah said laughing.  Kian dressed and went down to sort the wallpaper and paint out that they’d bought the previous weekend.  As Sarah finished getting ready Liz wandered in.  “Hiya.  Just realised I haven’t seen your room.  Wow – nice.”  “I know … gorgeous view of the gardens too.”  Sarah said as she dragged Liz to the window.  “So … what we doing first – shopping or arranging?”  Liz asked.  “Well … we cant arrange whilst they paint cos they’ll get nothing done … so lets go hit the shops!!”  “Good thinking.  I’ll go grab my bag and meet you downstairs – ok?”  “Ok.”  Liz skipped out the room whilst Sarah checked her hair and make up, grabbed a jacket and her bag and went downstairs. 

 

"We're off to the shops! You be good and do a nice job, and there might be a reward in it for you when we get back." Liz said, and winked. "Oh really…? What's the reward then?" Kian asked. "Sarah's got your reward, and you'll see." she said and smiled as Mark walked over. "Ah ah, mate! We've got a job to do!" Kian said just as Sarah came down. "But of course we couldn't go on without a goodbye kiss!" he continued and practically ran over to her. "Careful, Ki!" Sarah smiled as Kian kissed her. "We're gonna miss you!" Kian and Mark said in sync, giving them a puppy eyed look. Sarah and Liz looked at each other, then back at the lads. "Aww!" they sighed and hugged them. "Can I borrow your car, babe?" Liz asked as she dangled Mark's car keys in front of him. "Sure, just don't crash." he joked. "And come back here in one piece, or two maybe it is in your case!" Liz laughed. "I will … promise. Thank you!" She kissed him again and the two girls walked out to the car. "Smart choice to take this car, much bigger!" Sarah said laughing. "I know, much more room!" Liz started the car and they drove off. "Oh well, we better get started then!" Mark said as they turned from the window. "Yeah, we better. Okay, you start over there and I'll start over here." Kian said, pointing to where he meant. "And we'll meet in the middle!" Mark finished. "Right!" They picked up the things they needed, and started decorating.

 

“OK… how’s about this for the lounge?”  Said Liz holding up a blue lampshade.  “Nice … and these in the kitchen?”  Said Sarah holding up a set of green matching jars.  “Cool.  We are so good at this!”  Liz said as they put the items in ever filling baskets and carried on round the store.  “Wow … that I like.”  Sarah said pointing to a black lamp.  Liz laughed.  “Maybe we should have brought them with us.  We are never going to carry all this!”  “Good point.  I’ll ring them.”  Sarah said as she took her mobile from her pocket and called Kian.  “Hi sweetie.  Two things.  One – remember to sort out the home phone line.  Two – help!  Could you and Mark drop your brushes and come and give two shopaholics a hand?”  “Thanks.  We are in Grayson’s – third floor – home furnishing.  See you in a bit.  Bye.”  She hung up and put her phone away.  “They are setting off once they’ve, and I quote ‘removed the paint from every orifice’.”  Liz laughed.  About half an hour later they showed up.  “What haven’t you bought?”  Kian said looking at the baskets.  “Behave – Ki … I thought you were removing the paint?”  “Aww Sarah!!  I wanted to see how long he’d walk round like that.”  Mark said laughing.  “Like what?”  Kian said.  “Baby – your nose is blue.”  “What?  Mark!!  You said I’d got it all off!”  Mark continued laughing.  “Ok … must hang mirrors!!  Back in a minute.”  Kian said as he set off to toilets with his hand over his face.  “Oh Mark you are mean.”  Sarah said smirking.  “I know!”  Mark kept laughing uncontrollably.  Kian arrived back a few minutes later with a normal coloured nose.  “So … why the SOS?  What are you trying to buy?”  Kian asked.  “Well … that black stand lamp … those two green cupboards … there’s a few bed sets for the spare rooms … and a set of curtains for our room … plus everything we have in these baskets.”  Sarah said holding up her full basket.  “Why don’t you just buy the shop!!  We could live here!”  Kian joked.  “Funny.  Now move your cute butt over there … or no reward!”  Sarah said.  Kian and Mark ran!!!

 

"Oh, didn't they get a move on!" Liz laughed when the two lads ran over and started carrying the things Sarah and Liz had pointed out to the cash register. "I know! How long do you reckon we could have them carry and decorate, just by telling them 'no reward' if they don't?" Sarah asked as Kian passed her with one of the cupboards. "Hmm… don't know… should we give it a try?" Liz said, and looked at Sarah. "Nah!" they laughed. "That was it! Have any more requests my queen?" Kian smiled at Sarah. "No, none that I can think of." she said. "Well, I can think of one… Would you carry it out to the car for us too?" Liz said, fluttering her eyes at Mark. "Well, what do I get if I do?" Mark asked with a smirk. "This…" Liz kissed him softly. "And the reward." "What about me then?" Kian asked. "The same…" Sarah said as she kissed him. "Well… would you darling? Or should I carry it?" Liz looked at Mark, and started over to the lamp. "No! We'll do it." Mark said, hurrying over and grabbing the lamp before she could get to it. "Thank you!" Liz smiled. The lads carried the things down in the car, while Sarah and Liz went to pay. "What should the reward be?" Sarah asked. "Hmmm… don't know. We could make them dinner, or a cake or something like that. Unless you had something else in mind?" Liz said, looking at her. "Oh, I don't know." Sarah said, and they both laughed. "There! Everything's been stacked into the car." Kian reported as the girls joined them outside again. "Thank you. You're so kind!" Sarah smiled, and kissed him. "Mmmm… I like!" Kian said, making them all laugh.

 

That evening the girls cooked a posh meal for the lads … and even baked them a cake!  After dinner Sarah vanished upstairs leaving the other three to tidy the dishes and watch a bit of telly.  They sat down to watch a TV movie that was just about to begin when Sarah called from upstairs.  “Kian?  Can you come and give me a hand?”  “Sure!”  He shouted back.  “A man’s work is never done.”  He muttered as he walked out the room and up the staircase.  He reached their room and walked in, then stood in the doorway in astonishment of what he saw before him.  “Wow.”  He said grinning.  The room was in darkness apart from a number of candles that were scattered about.  There were vases of roses on the bedside table and dresser.  Soft romantic music was coming from the stereo.  Sarah was stood in the centre of the room dressed in a short black silk dress holding a solitary red rose.  “One reward as promised.” She said softly.  “Well … you have been a busy girl haven’t you?”  Kian said as he entered the room, closed the door and walked across to Sarah.  He took the rose from her hand, smelt it, and placed it on the end of the bed.  He placed his arms around her waist and kissed her tenderly.  They stood in the centre of the room holding each other as close as possible, swaying gently to the music.  “God I love you so much … I never thought I could feel this way about anyone … but you … you just make me feel so … so … alive.”  Kian whispered as they danced.  “I love you too … I’m the luckiest and happiest girl in the world … and its all because of you.”  Kian moved back a little and delicately brushed the hair from Sarah’s face and stroked her cheek.  He then kissed her … so soft and gentle to start with … but with steadily more and more passion.  He moved down her neck and along her shoulder before they moved slowly to the bed, and spent the night making sweet love, before lying content in each other's arms as they fell asleep.

 

Kian left, and Mark and Liz sat alone in the sofa. "Why are you sitting all the way over there?" Mark asked and smiled. "All the way over here…?" Liz grinned back at him, and moved closer. "How's this then?" she asked as he put his arms around her. "Perfect. So tell me more … I wanna know what made you turn to jelly?" Mark asked, making Liz laugh. "You're still wondering about that? When did you and Ki hear us again, wasn't that like last night?" she asked. "Yeah, sure I am. Last night would be correct yes, but I still wanna know." Liz looked up at him, and he smiled down at her. "So … tell me!" "Fine… what made me turn to jelly was that I'd only seen you in pictures and on telly, but there you were, in real life!" Liz said, and heard how he laughed quietly. "Oi! Don't laugh, this is embarrassing!" she said, and Mark smiled. "Sorry, go on." "And when you came out of the lift and came over to us, my hands were shaking so that I had problems giving you the picture to sign. To be completely honest, I was, and still am, completely in love with your smile and your eyes. So when you smiled at me, I was sure I was going to faint! Oh, this is embarrassing…" Liz said, holding her hands over her blushing cheeks. "Awww! Don't be babe. Tell me more." Mark said, kissing her head. "Okay … Well, when Sarah called Kian and you invited us out, neither of us could believe it! We were in 7^th heaven. I don't think I've ever been that nervous about going out before, but it was one of the best nights of my life. And thankfully I've had many others." she looked up at him, and he smiled. "And so has Sarah, I'm absolutely sure! This is like our dream come true, I don't think we've ever been this happy. Safe to say, Mark, you've made me the happiest girl on the planet! Which I'm sure is what Sarah says to Kian as well." Liz said. "I was just about to say exactly the same." Mark grinned, and kissed her. "And I can't believe we're going to be parents!" Liz laughed. "Me neither!" "Oh, you know what I was thinking?" she said as they turned off the TV. "What babe?" Mark asked. "We should throw a little, well that'll be the day…! Throw a 'moving in' sort of party, and invite Bry and Kez, Shane and Kate, and Nicky and G." Liz looked at him and smiled. "Cool! We'll run it by the Egans tomorrow." Mark said as they cuddled up to each other, and soon fell asleep.

 

When Sarah woke the following morning she was curled up in Kian’s arms.  She looked up at him watching him sleep and grinning to herself looking at the perfect smile on his face.  She reached up and moved the hair that was covering his eyes, and delicately brushed his cheek.  “I love you Kian Egan.”  She whispered softly before kissing him gently on the lips as she got out of bed and went into the bathroom to take a shower.  She came back dressed in her dressing gown to find him sat up looking helplessly around the room.  “Morning sweetie … whats up?”  She asked.  “Where did you go?  I woke up … and I was all alone.  No one to hug … no one to kiss … I was all lonely.”  He said with puppy eyes.  “Aww poor baby.  I went for a shower.  But I’m here now.”  She said joining Kian on the bed.  Kian grinned as he kissed her.  “Morning my love.”  He said softly.  “Morning.”  She replied.  “So …” He started pulling her close to him  “How am I ever going to thank you for last nights reward?”  He said cheekily.  “Oh I don’t know … sure I can think of something.”  Sarah replied before Kian’s began tickling her all over as they kissed.  “Stop … wait … eek … behave!”  Sarah said between laughs.  “Ok … come on – lets go grab brekkie!!”  Kian said pulling her off the bed and heading downstairs.  They wandered into the lounge and found Mark and Liz still cuddled up asleep.  “Aww … how cute.  Go grab my camera.”  Sarah said.  Kian ran off and returned seconds later.  She took a photo and the flash woke Mark up.  “Oh… morning.  Why am I on the sofa still?”  Kian laughed.  “Looks like you got a little … comfy.  Morning Liz!”  Liz too began to wake.  “Ouch my neck … oh … hi guys.”  Sarah laughed.  “Come on … let go make the breakfast.”  She said taking Kian’s hand and taking him into the kitchen.

 

Liz and Mark followed in after them. "So… did you two sleep well?" Liz said with smirk. "Yes, thank you. Very well!" Kian grinned. "And you two?" Sarah asked. "Fine thanks, except my neck is killing me!" Liz laughed. "Well, that's what you get for sleeping on the couch!" Kian said. "Shut up!" Mark smiled, and placed his hands on Liz's neck. "Ooh, nice. You've got warm hands." she said, making the others laugh. "Better?" Mark asked as she turned around. "Yes, very. Thank you," Liz said, and kissed him. "Wasn't there something we were gonna talk to them about?" Mark asked, looking at Sarah and Kian. "Oh, right!" Liz nodded. "What? Talk to us about what?" Kian asked curiously. "Well, my lovely fiancée here," Mark started. "Isn't he adorable?" Liz gushed. "Sorry, go on." "Yes, well… Liz got an idea last night that we should have a party! Sort of a 'moving in' thing, and get Bry and Kez, Nix and G, and Shane and Kate to come." Mark said. Liz looked at the two others. Sarah looked at Kian who smiled in return. "Cool! Party!" he said. "And they could stay for a few days. Lord knows we've got enough bedrooms!" Sarah added. "Yeah, brilliant thinking!" Liz said, and smiled. They sat down for breakfast as they planned their party. "Okay … you two will call the lads and tell them when and where and all the other technicalities, and we'll make a list of thing we need and sort out three more bedrooms." Sarah said to Kian as they were washing up. "Deal. We'll go call them now while you sort out the bedrooms, then we can go shopping all four." Kian said as he kissed her. Just then Mark and Liz came down again after showering and getting dressed. "Great. Come on Liz, we'll have to install them somewhere!" Sarah said and grabbed Liz's hand as she walked out, before they vanished up the stairs, and Mark and Kian pulled out their phones and started dialling. "You know," Mark said as he waited for Nicky to pick up. "We really should get that home phone line sorted!" Kian laughed. "Yeah!" About half an hour later the two girls came down again, and found the lads rummaging through the refrigerator. "Ssssh… come on!" Liz whispered to Sarah. They tip-toed over to where the lads were standing, and hugged them from behind. "Gaaah!!" Mark and Kian shouted in sync and jumped as the girls hugged them. They turned to see Sarah and Liz laughing uncontrollably. "Sheesh…! You scared me!" Kian said. "Ditto!" Mark looked at Liz. "Sorry… jut so tempting… Oh, my tummy!" she said between laughs. "Don't do that again!" Kian warned as he moved closer to Sarah. "I… uh-oh… sorry… eeeek! Kian!" she laughed as he picked her up and ran out into the lounge before dumping her on the sofa. "Oh no! Don't even dare!" Liz said, trying desperately to choke her laughter. Mark just grinned evilly and started tickling her. "Stop!! I can't breathe!" Liz managed to utter before bursting out in a new fit of laughter. "Fine, but only coz I want you alive!" Mark joked. "Thank you." Liz said, finally able to speak normally. "Awfully quiet in here…" Mark said, pulling her with him into the lounge. Sarah and Kian lay kissing on the sofa. "No wonder!" Liz smiled.

 

“Ahem!”  Mark coughed.  No response.  Liz picked up a cushion and tossed it onto the sofa and watched it hit Kian on the back of the head and fall onto the floor; they still remained lip-locked.  “FIRE!!!!”  Mark yelled.  “Wha… where?”  Kian said finally detaching himself from Sarah.  Mark and Liz burst into hysterics and Sarah blushed.  “I think we were doing that drifting into our own little kissing world again – sorry you two.”  Sarah said sitting up.  Kian laughed.  “So … when are they arriving?”  Liz asked as her and Mark sat on the other sofa.  “They’ll be here tonight.  So … we have some serious shopping to do … and we need to ring the phone company and organise a land line!!!”  Kian said.  “Well … let’s get out and shop then!”  Sarah said jumping up.  The four of them picked up coats and bags and went out to Mark’s 4X4.  They drove to the nearest supermarket and grabbed two trolleys.  “Ok … you two sort drinks … we’ll do food.”  Liz said as she directed Mark to the food whilst Sarah and Kian went to stock up on beer, wine and spirits.  The boot and backseats of the 4X4 were well covered by the party snacks and alcohol and it was a tight squeeze to fit Sarah and Kian back in.  When they arrived back at their house they found Shane and Kate, Nicky and G, and Bryan and Kerry on the doorstep.   “Hi guys!!!  You’re early!”  Liz yelled getting out the 4X4 and hugging them each in turn, closely followed by Sarah.  “Surprise!!!”  The girl screamed as the five of them began jumping around in a hug.  The boys looked on laughing, before they all grabbed a shopping bag or suitcase and heading indoors.

 

"Wow! This is huge!" Kate said as she and the rest of the girls got a guided tour of the house. "Yeah, but it's great. Very beautiful." Georgina smiled at Sarah and Liz who were practically beaming. "And so perfect … for parties!" Kerry added, and all five of them squealed before laughing. "What are you lot squealing for now?" Nicky asked looking up at them from the bottom of the stairs. "Nothing. Just girl stuff!" G said, and winked. "Oh, well come down and get a drink." he said, and the girls came down and into the lounge. "What will it be, babes?" Shane asked, looking at them. "White wine." "Vodka orange." "Bailey's." "G&T." came the answers, and the lads soon had their drinks fixed. "And Liz?" Bryan looked at her. "Mineral water, please." He poured her a glass, and handed it to her. "Thanks!" Shane got up from where he sat in the sofa, and looked at the nine others. "Wow - silence at once. That's a first!" he said, and they laughed. "Shut up! Get on with it then!" Kian said. "Thank you, I was waiting for one of you to get impatient." Shane joked, and all the other's grabbed a near by pillow or cushion and got ready to throw. "Ok! Ok! I can take a hint!" he said, and they lowered their weapons. "Well, I just wanted to say that it's so great to be here, all ten of us together again! And big congratulations to Sarah and Kian and Mark and Liz for being the proud owners of this fantastic and beautiful house. And thanks for having us all here, we look forward to our stay and hope there will be lots more to come!" he finished as he raised his glass, and the others followed his lead. "Cheers!" After having their drinks, the girls went back upstairs to unpack and the lads proceeded out into the garden for a footie match. "Oi, handsome!" Kerry shouted out of her window, making all five heads turn. "Yes, love?" Bryan shouted back up to her. "What do you say? Girls versus boys?" "Yeah! Cool! Come down then." She smiled and turned to the other girls. "Come on ladies … let's go kick their arses!" she said, and they all laughed.

 

After 5 minutes the girls were 4-0 up.  “Ok guys … stop letting them win … let's show them how good we are!”  Bryan said as they huddled together.  “I’m not letting them do anything … they are killing us.”  Kian said.  “Me either … this is it … we’re toast.”  Nicky said.  The lads looked at each other and burst into laughter.  “We are so dead.”  Shane said as they took their positions to restart.  The girls led by Kate made a run up the garden towards a scared looking Nicky in goal.  As Kate was about to shoot, Sarah’s attention was drawn to Kian.  He was stood still, his face pale … white infact.  He began to shake, then collapsed to the floor in a heap.  “KIAN!!”  She shouted running over and falling to the ground beside him.  “Ki?”  She said shaking him, her tears falling fast.  She checked for a pulse – weak but there.  He was breathing.  His face was white though and the sweat was pouring from him.  He was unresponsive each time she or anyone else called his name.  Shane pulled out his mobile and dialled an ambulance as Liz sat beside Sarah trying to comfort her, as the others looked on in shock.  The ambulance arrived and Sarah and Liz got in beside Kian; Sarah holding his hand all the way whilst Liz held her.  The paramedics rushed him straight into casualty leaving a frightened and upset Sarah in the waiting area crying uncontrollably as Liz tried to calm her down.

 

"Try to calm down, Sarah. He'll be fine." Liz said quietly. "But… but… he's… If I lose him now, I'll die!" Sarah sobbed. "You won't lose him, he's not gonna let you. He loves you too much to leave you, I know he does. I know it's not easy, but try for Kian's sake to calm down a bit. He needs you to be strong for him." she said, and looked up as the others all rushed in. Mark sat down beside Liz and looked at her. "How's he doing?" he asked. "Don't know, nobody's told us anything yet." Liz answered. "Sarah … come on, let's go get a cup of tea or a coffee. It's not much we can do but wait." she said, and Sarah and Liz stood up. "I'll let you know as soon as we hear anything." Mark said as they left. Liz smiled faintly at him, and led Sarah to the cafeteria. "Now I know what Kian must've felt like when I was unconscious after our crash." Sarah said quietly as she sipped her tea. "Yes, you two better be more careful from now on. I'm not sure I can take another hospital visit like this, and it doesn't get any easier as I keep growing." Liz said stroking her stomach, desperately wanting to see her smile. A little quiet laugh escaped Sarah's lips, and she looked up at her friend. "I know…" she said, and smiled faintly. "I knew I could made you smile!" Liz said triumphantly. Sarah smiled again, and looked at the clock hanging on the wall. "An hour and a half. What's taking them so long?" she asked, just as Liz mobile beeped in her jacket. "Hopefully nothing but slow doctors." she said as she pressed "Read?" "Think you better come up, doctor's been here." she read and stood up. "Come on Sarah, we've got to go." Liz said grabbing Sarah's hand as they ran over to the lifts. "Ah, sod it! It's only two floors!" Liz said, and they ran up the stairs. "What did the doctor say?" Liz panted as they reached the others. Mark smiled at her. "Why ask the doctor?" he said, and Sarah's eyes grew wide. "What? No…" she said, grabbing Liz's hand. "When you can ask Kian." Mark finished and the two girls let out a sigh of relief. "Where is he?" Sarah asked. "In there, you can go see him." Shane said, pointing to the room where Kian was. "Told you he'd be fine." Liz smiled and hugged Sarah before she hurried into Kian's room.

 

“Ki!!!”  Sarah cried as she ran into his room to find him sat up in bed.  “Hey babe.”  He said as he hugged her.  “Bet I scared you?”  “Too right you did – what happened?  What did the doctor say? Are you ok?”  Kian smiled.  “I was just standing there … then … I felt all hot and woozy … next thing I can hear you calling my name … but I can't wake up … when I do wake up I am in a white room surrounded by doctors.  The doctors are running tests … they don’t know what happened.  I feel fine.  Stop looking so worried.”  Sarah hugged him again.  “I can’t help it.  I love you Ki … and I thought I’d lost you.”  “Now you know how I felt.  Where are the others?”  “In the waiting room – again! – Liz came in the ambulance with me.”  “Are you alright?”  Kian asked.  “Yes … I was a bit of a mess … but I’m fine.  What tests have they done?  When are you coming home?”  “They’ve taken blood and urine samples.  Results could take two or three days.  The docs coming back in the morning … afraid I’ll be in here tonight.  But they should let me home tomorrow.  Till then …” Kian didn’t finish his sentence.  He passed out for the second time that day and slumped in the bed.  “HELP!”  Screamed Sarah.  “Ki baby?  Wake up … please … don’t leave me.”  She pleaded as the doctor and Liz came rushing in.  “Oh no.”  Liz said softly as she held Sarah and led her from the room leaving the doctors to work.  “He’s … he’s going to die isn’t he?”  Sarah said between sobs.

 

"No, he's not Sarah. He can't." Liz replied, fighting her own tears. "Maybe he's just got low blood sugar. Or it could be from exercising so quickly after drinking…?" Liz said, trying hard to find a reason for Kian's fainting. Sarah was still crying hard, and Liz was quickly running out of ideas. "I wish they would hurry up!" Sarah sobbed on her shoulder. "I know, me too." Liz answered as her tears started running too. Kerry and Kate came over with Georgina in close pursuit, and smiled at Liz as they led Sarah out with them to get some fresh air. Liz placed her hands over her face, and broke down in tears. Shane, Nicky and Bryan left for the cafeteria, and Mark smiled at them as they walked past. "Liz, honey…" he said as he sat down next to her. "I'm sorry." she sobbed, and he hugged her. "For what?" "For acting like this, I should be with Sarah and comfort her now. Not here crying." she said. Mark kissed her head. "You've done everything you can do, and I know that Sarah appreciates it." he said. "So does Kian." Liz looked up at him. "Sorry, just hormones I guess." she said, and dried her tears. Mark smiled and placed his hand on her stomach. "Be good to mummy." he whispered, making Liz laugh. "You're so sweet." she said. "Ms. Harwood?" A doctor came out of Kian's room and looked around. "Yes, I'm here. Is he all right?" Sarah asked as she and the three other girls came back in. Bryan, Nicky and Shane came back too, just in time to hear what the doctor had to say. "Mr. Egan is fine. He's just got low blood sugar, so we're keeping him here over night for observation. And he can go home tomorrow." the doctor smiled at a very relieved group of friends. "He's asking for, and I quote 'my gorgeous fiancée, send her in here a.s.a.p.' So I guess you better hurry." he smiled at Sarah, who hurried into his room again. "Thank you, doctor." Liz said, and smiled at him. "Thank you!"

Sarah rushed into Kian’s room to find him led down in bed.  “Hi sweetie – man I’m sorry for that … did I scare you again?”  Kian said.  “Yeah – but it’s not your fault.  Why does it keep happening?”  Sarah said as she perched on the bed beside him and held his hand.  “Doc says I have a low blood sugar level … not eating the right stuff combined with too much physical exertion!”  Kian said smirking.  “So … if we get you on the right foods and … behave for a while – you’ll be alright?”  Sarah said grinning.  “Yep … bored though.”  Kian smiled at Sarah as he kissed her.  “Knock knock!”  Mark said as he stood at the door with Liz.  “Hey guys … come on in.  Where are the others?”  “They’ve gone back to the house … they send their love.  How are you feeling?”  Liz asked.  “I’m ok … I’ll be fine.  You alright?”  “Yeah … just having a few hormone problems … but I’ll be alright.”  Liz said smiling.  “Thanks for being there Liz … you’re fab!”  Sarah said hugging her.  “Anytime … though I hope you two can keep yourselves out of hospital for a good while … I don’t need this stress in my condition!”  They all laughed.  “So … when do I get you back home – still tomorrow?”  Sarah asked.  “Afraid so … and by the look on the nurses face – you gotta go!”  Kian said looking at the nurse in the doorway.  “Yes please.  Mr Egan needs rest.  Everyone out in 5 please.”  She said.  “Ok … love you.”  Sarah said as she hugged Kian and kissed him before heading out the door with Liz.  “Look after her mate.”  Kian said to Mark as he left.  “Will do – be good.”  Kian settled down in bed and was soon asleep.  Liz, Mark and Sarah head home to bed.  Sarah had a restless night, still worrying that Kian wasn’t all right and there was something more to it than low blood sugar.

 

They all met up in the kitchen for breakfast the next morning. "Morning, Sarah. Slept ok?" Kate asked as Sarah entered. "Morning. As good as I could, I suppose." she smiled and turned as Liz entered. "Finally, we're starving here!" Shane joked. "Funny, Filan!" she said, and stuck her tongue out at him. "What?" he asked, shrugging. "Nothing!" Liz snapped. They all looked at her, and she sighed. "Sorry guys. Didn't mean to snap at you Shane. Had a bad night, and an equal morning." Shane smiled and hugged her. "No worries babe!" he said. "Oi! Careful there! She's spoken for." Mark laughed, and hugged her. "Sarah, how are you feeling? I heard you toss and turn." Liz looked at Sarah. "Yeah, I was worried about him. What if it isn't just low blood sugar?" she said. Liz shot a look at Mark who smiled, and she led Sarah into the lounge. "Don't worry about it Sarah. You heard the doctor; he'll be fine if he just does as he's told. Which I believe might include you." Liz said and smiled. Sarah laughed a little. "Might be!" "He'll probably come with a list of what Kian should and shouldn't eat, and he'll be fine. I know, I've had low blood sugar myself. It's nothing to worry about really, trust me." Sarah nodded. "Thanks, I just don't want to lose him." "I know, but you won't. Not until you're both ancient!" They laughed. "Now, let's go get some breakfast and you can go get Kian after that." Liz said, hugging her. "Ok, let's go then." They came back to see the girls watching as the lads prepared breakfast. "Are you sure this is so smart?" Sarah said. "Why not?" Kerry asked. "Well, I believe we all remember Nicky's fabulous eggs!" she said, and they all burst out in laughter. "He's been assigned to setting the table, so I guess we're in the clear." Bryan said, ruffling Nicky's hair as he passed by. "Ha ha! Very funny! I just got distracted, I can very well manage to make eggs thank you very much!" he said, and winked at Georgina who smiled in return.

 

“Mind your head.”  Sarah said as she guided Kian into the back of the car.  “Liz – could you tell her I’m not about to break … please?”  Kian said grinning.  Liz just smiled.  “Let me fuss … I’m well within my rights!”  Sarah said as she got in beside him.  “But the kind of fuss I want might send me back in there!!”  Kian whispered.  Sarah smirked.  “You will do and eat what you are told for one week then we will see how you are doing.  Promise me that if you ever feel dizzy or ill you’ll shout me straight away?”  Sarah said.  “I promise.”  Kian said saluting.  Liz drove them home where the others were waiting with a mini-welcoming party.  “Hey Kian!”  Everyone called as he walked in.  “Hi guys – miss me?”  “Not really mate … glad of the peace to be honest.”  Bryan said.  “Thanks Bry – remind me to kick your arse later.”  “There will be no arse kicking … apart from me kicking yours if you don’t behave!”  Sarah said.  Kian sat down on the sofa pulling Sarah onto him kissing her passionately.  “Come on guys – let's leave them to it.”  Liz said ushering the others into the garden for a kick about.  “Sarah?”  Kian said when they both came up for air.  “Yeah?”  “Will you get one of those nurses outfits?”  “Kian – you are hopeless.  But I love you anyway.  Now … do you feel alright?”  “Yeah … and you feel pretty good too.”  He answered as he slipped his arms round her waist.  They snuggled up on the sofa and fell asleep.  In the garden Kate, G, and Kerry were once again beating the other lads whilst Liz and Mark lay on the grass in the sun.  “Mark?”  “Yeah hun?”  “I love you.”  Mark rolled onto his front and looked at Liz.  “I love you too.  Are you alright?”  “Yeah … just thinking.”  “About?”  “You … me … junior … the future.”  “And what do you see?”  “Us three … or more … living here with Sarah and Kian forever.”  “Sounds good to me.”  “I know.  When do you go away again?”  She asked.  “In about a week.”  “For how long?”  Mark sighed.  “6 months.”  “What?”  Liz said looking upset.  “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”  “With all that’s been going on I didn’t want to add to your stress … what with moving in … Kian collapsing … looking after Sarah … and your varying hormones … there was never really a spare moment.”  Liz sat up, and got to her feet.  “And what do you think this is doing?  Making me calm!”  She turned on her heels and stormed inside leaving Mark alone and frustrated.

 

"Wow … what did you do?" Nicky asked when he saw Liz storming off. "I had to tell her that we're going away for 6 months." Mark answered. "Uh-oh." Nix looked at Mark who nodded. "Don't I know it?" he said and went in after her. Sarah and Kian woke up when they heard someone hurrying up the stairs, and a door being slammed shut. "What was that?" Kian asked, looking at Sarah. "Didn't sound too good." she answered, and pointed to the doors leading out to the garden. Kian turned and saw Mark coming in. "Was that Liz?" he asked, and Mark nodded. "Yup, she's mad at me. I'm in so much trouble." "Why?" Sarah asked. "Told her we have to leave soon, for 6 months. Didn't make her happy." Mark explained, and proceeded up the steps after Liz. "Liz?" he asked, trying the doorknob. It was locked. "Liz? Come on, open the door. Please." he said. "Go away Mark! Leave me alone!" she shouted. Mark sighed, and knocked again. "Open the door, please." "No! Why?" she shouted. "I need to talk to you. Please, sweetie. If I stay out here, everyone will hear me." Mark said, waiting for her to open. "Go away, leave me alone!" she shouted again. He sat down on the floor with his back to the door, waiting for her to calm down. Mark could hear her sobbing gently on the other side of the door. After sitting there for almost 15 minutes he got up, and knocked again. "Liz, honey? Please, open the door." "Fine." she said, and he heard the door being unlocked. Liz sat on the bed, clutching a teddy bear as tears ran from her eyes. Mark sat down on the bed beside her. "You wanted to talk…?" she said, looking down. "Yeah, I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner. I just didn't want you to…" he started. "Be under more stress? But you decide now is a good time to tell me? Well, you were wrong Mark! It would've been better if you'd told me earlier, like I said earlier this isn't making me calmer!" Liz interrupted, and she looked at him. "I'm sorry, I just didn't know how or when to tell you." Mark said, touching her arm. "Why, Mark? Did you really think it would be easier on me, on both of us, if you waited until the day before to tell me?" Liz asked as she burst into tears.

 

Downstairs Sarah and Kian could hear almost every word.  “Crikey.”  Kian said.  “Yeah … um … Ki … is it true?”  Sarah said.  “What?”  Kian asked looking at her.  “Six months?”  Kian looked down.  “Yeah … kind of.  Please don’t be mad at me.”  “It’s ok.  I know it’s your job … it’s all right.  Just hurry back!  Please I’m going to have Liz to look after … hopefully.”  She said hugging him.  Back upstairs Liz was storming round the room yelling at Mark who was sat on the end of the bed.  “Six months … you are leaving me in this condition for six months … you are going to miss all the antenatal classes … and more importantly THE BIRTH OF YOUR CHILD!!”  Liz screamed.  Before kneeling on the floor in tears. Mark started to sob as he walked over and held her tightly.  “Liz babe … please … calm down … this isn’t doing you any good.”  Liz pulled away from Mark and stood up.  “Please Mark … if you love me … just stay away for a while ok … just … just leave me alone.”  She walked out the room leaving Mark in tears.  She stormed down the stairs and into the lounge where Sarah and Kian were still sitting.  “Liz?  Are you ok?”  Sarah said getting up.  “He’s … six months … I … we …” Liz broke down in Sarah’s arms, as Kian walked past signalling he was going to see how Mark was.  Sarah guided Liz over to the sofa and sat her down.  “He’s leaving me … for 6 months … he’s going to miss it all … the classes … the birth … why didn’t he tell me Sarah?  Why?”  Liz sobbed.  “Mark wouldn’t miss the birth for anything.  He’ll be there – trust me.  Kian didn’t tell me either.  They didn’t want to bring the mood down … we have been so happy about moving … we knew they’d be going soon anyway.  They are Westlife Liz … it’s their job.”  Sarah said hugging her.  “I know.”  Liz whispered.  Just then Mark and Kian walked in.  “Liz?  Please love … don’t shut me out.”  Mark said crouching infront of her.  Sarah got up and went to stand by Kian.  Liz looked up into Mark’s tear filled eyes.  “Look Liz … me and Kian have been talking.  He’s not 100% yet … he’ll need looking after … we aren’t going to hire him a nurse … but we are going to bring Sarah with us.  I need you … you are having my child … so you are coming too.”  “What?”  Sarah said.  “Kian – could you?”  Mark said pointing to the door.  Kian nodded and took Sarah outside.  “Liz?  Please?”  “I’m going to have to pack again aren’t I?”  Liz said smiling.  “Is that a yes?”  Mark said hopefully.  “What do you think?”  Liz answered hugging him.

 

"Did I hear you right in there?" Sarah asked when they came outside. Kian smiled at her and nodded. "Yeah, how about that nurses outfit?" he asked grinning. "You are incurable! But I love you!" Sarah said, playfully slapping his arm before hugging him. "What are you two so pleased about?" Georgina asked, coming out of the house with a trey of ice cold lemonades. "Nothing, except I'm going on tour." Sarah answered smiling widely. "You are? Cool!" Kerry smiled at her. Kian had gone to run it by the other lads. "Yeah, good idea, Kian." Shane said as they all headed back to the girls. "What was up with Mark and Liz? She didn't sound very happy." Kate asked as she sat back sipping her lemonade. "Mark told her how long we were going away for, and she was well… not too excited." Kian said. "But they've made up now, both Sarah and Liz are coming with us when we leave." Kian continued. "Oh, which reminds me. Kerry, Georgina, Kate … have any plans for the next… oh, say 6 months…?" Bryan asked, looking at them over his shades. "Hang on, let me go check my calendar…" Kate said, before throwing herself around Shane's neck. "Really?!" she said, and Shane laughed. "Yes!" Kerry had somewhat the same reaction. She put her glass down, and kissed Bryan. "Wow, Kez!" he said when he came up for air. "Thank you!" she smiled. "You're welcome." he answered. Georgina stood up and put her glass down before walking casually over to where Nicky was standing. He couldn't stop smiling as she got closer, and just as he had put his glass down she ran the few feet left over to him and jumped into his arms. "This is so wonderful!! You lot are the best!" she gushed as she kissed him. "Thank you very much! So I take it you wanna come?" Nicky grinned. "Yes!" she answered. "Anyone seen Mark and Liz?" Kerry asked. "Yeah, saw them when I came out earlier." G said from Nicky's arms. "They were making up all right, snogging on the sofa!" she said, and they all laughed. Just then Mark and Liz came out, their arms around each other. "Ooooh!" the others teased, making them both blush. "Shut up!" Liz said smiling. "Listen, I just wanted to apologise for my behaviour. I'm guessing you all heard…?" she asked, and the eight others nodded. "Thought so… Well, I'm sorry, I just didn't want him to leave me. Forgive me?" "Awww!" they all sighed. "Sure we do. So, did you hear the great news? Or were you busy…?" Bryan grinned. "Yeah, I heard. Mark told me." Liz said and smiled. "It's gonna be great!" Sarah added. "How about a toast?" Shane said. "Oh!" everyone laughed. "I'll do it anyway! Here's to the next six months - Westlife with girlfriends!" he said, and they all cheered. "Cheers!"

 

Exactly one week later Westlife plus their girlfriends and fiancées were on board a none stop flight from Dublin to New York.  “Excited?”  Shane asked clutching Kate’s hand.  “Very.  This is so cool.”  “I’ll be back in a minute.”  Sarah said as the seatbelt sign was switched off.  She returned a few minutes later, obviously having been sick.  “You ok sweetheart?”  Kian asked. “Yeah … probably something I ate.”  She said sitting down between him and Liz.  After a while she and the others were asleep.  They touched down in New York just before 3 in the afternoon and were met at the gate by Anto and a tour bus.  “Welcome back guys … hello ladies … welcome to chateau tour bus!”  He said as they all filed on to the huge bus, and Sarah ran to the toilet again.  They all dumped their bags and Liz went into the back to wait for Sarah to come out the toilet.  “You’re pregnant aren’t you?”  She said quietly when Sarah appeared.  “How did you guess?”  Sarah said as she sat beside her.  “Tell tale sign – you keep throwing up and Nix isn’t that bad a cook.  Congrats!”  Sarah laughed.  “How do you think he’ll take it?”  “Nix – he’ll be happy we don’t think he sucks as a cook.”  Sarah playfully hit her.  “Kian!” She said a little loud. “He’ll be over the moon.”  “You called?”  Kian said popping his head through the curtain that divided the sleeping area and living area.  “I’ll leave you to it … I’d sit if I were you.”  Liz said as she went past Kian.  “What?”  Kian said sitting down.  “I keep throwing up.”  Sarah said.  “Aww hun … you ok?” He said hugging her.  “Yeah … I’ll be better in April though.”  Kian counted on his fingers and then grinned.  “No way?”  “Yes way – look out world … here comes mini-Ki.”  “That’s brilliant … I love you so much.”  Kian said as he hugged her tightly.  “I love you too.”  They stood up and went into the living area as the bus set off to the city centre.  “Guys – we have an announcement – go for it Sarah.”  Kian said.  “Warn the army and the air force … warn the government and call a national state of emergency – in April a mini-Ki will be on the loose!”  Everyone burst into hysterics before jumping around and hugging Sarah and Kian, who was also amused by what she’d said.

 

"This is really great Sarah!" Georgina said, hugging her. "Thanks. Poor lads though, now they'll have to deal with two pregnant girls!" she joked. "They'll manage!" Kerry smiled. "Yeah, and we can go shop for baby stuff!" Liz said, and the girls all grinned. "Yay! Cool!" "But in what colour…?" Kate looked from Liz to Sarah. "Promise you won't tell Mark?" Liz said with a smile, and looked at them. "Yes!" they all said in sync. "Okay, when I was at the doctors for a check up and stuff, he asked if I wanted to know what it is. And being me, I said yes." The girls looked at her. "I need to buy baby stuff in pink." she said with a smile. "Oh, yay!! Cool!" Kate cheered quietly, making them all giggle. "And you Sarah?" Liz looked at her friend. "Blue." she answered, and they repeated their quiet cheering process. "How do you know?" Georgina asked. "I just got a very strong feeling that it's a boy." Sarah said, stroking her stomach and smiling. "Great!" Liz hugged her. "What are you girls giggling about?" Nicky asked as he sat down next to Georgina. "Nothing. Just girl stuff." G answered, and the girls broke out in giggles again. Liz looked at Mark and smiled at him. "Mark?" "Yeah, what's up babe?" he answered. "I have something to tell you." Liz smiled at Sarah as she walked by her into the sleeping area. "Now I think it's your turn to sit." Sarah smiled at Mark. "Huh?" He went in and sat down next to Liz. "What's up? Is everything okay?" She smiled at him. "Everything's fine. You remember that I went to the doctor's before we left for a check up." she said, looking at him. "Yes. Are you sure you're all right?" Mark looked at her. "Yes. Well, he told me what it is." Liz said, placing one hand over the bump on her stomach slightly starting to show. Mark's face lit up, and he placed his hand over hers. "Do you want to know what it is?" she asked. "Yes, sure I do!" he smiled. "Mark … we're having a daughter." Liz said, smiling happily at him. "Really?! That's great!" Mark grinned and hugged her. "Listen up, everyone!" he said as they came back. "I'm having a daughter!" Mark said proudly. "Great you guys!" "Congrats!" "So cool!" Bryan said, smiling. "These kids are gonna be spoilt rotten!" Anto looked at them and laughed. "With all these aunts and uncles around." Liz and Sarah looked at each other and laughed. "We know!" they said in sync, much to the amusement of the others. "Well, I was just gonna ask if anyone is hungry?" Anto looked at them, and they all raised their hands shouting "Me!" "Thought so. How does junk food sound to you lot?" "Yummy!" Nicky answered, and Anto laughed. "I was right again! We'll be stopping at a McDonald's, so you can start figuring out what you want." he said, and left them as his mobile rang. Not long after the bus stopped and they all filed in after Anto. "Yesss! Food!" Bryan exclaimed as they all sat down at a huge table with their burgers. "Awww! Did they forget your toy, Bry?" Shane joked, and got a handful of chips in return. "Please lads, we're in a public place. Try and keep your urge to food fight under control." Kate said, and winked. A unison "Awww!" came from the lads.

 

Four months later the ten of them were still together on the tour bus … but some were taking up more room than others.  Liz was due to give birth any day now and Sarah was due in two or three weeks.  “I’m going to be glad when this little lady gets out … I won't dislike her as much when she’s out!”  Liz said rubbing her back as she sat down.  Sarah laughed as she tucked into a bowl of Twiglets dipped in white chocolate.  “I can not believe you are still having those weird cravings!”  Liz said in disgust.  “They aren’t cravings anymore … just got a bit of a taste for them!”    Sarah said as she ate.  “Ouch!”  Liz said clutching her tummy.  “What?”  Sarah said sitting up as best she could.  “Can you call Mark?  I think we’re off and running.”  Liz said as she winced in pain.  Sarah grabbed her mobile and called Mark.  For once his mobile was shut off so she called Kian.  “Hi you!  Can you tell Mark to one turn on his flaming mobile phone and two get his arse round here quick and prepare to become a dad?  Thanks hun.”  She hung up and found Liz laughing.  “What?”  “Hormones still playing up?”  Liz said.  Sarah laughed too.  “Maybe slightly.”  Five minutes later Mark and Kian burst into the door.  “Did I miss it?”  Mark asked running over.  “Got a while to wait yet!  Let's just get to the hospital!”  Liz said as Mark helped her up and out into the car.  The four of them sped to the hospital, Kian driving whilst Mark looked after Liz in the back.  When they arrived she was rushed straight up to maternity and Sarah and Kian were forced to sit in the waiting room whilst Mark went with her.  “Just think – we have all this to look forward to in a couple of weeks.”  Kian said as he handed Sarah an orange juice.  “Yeah … how you feeling?”  “Excited … nervous … happy … scared.  You?”  “Same.  But I know things will be fine as long as you are here with me.”  “Forever.  You, me and mini-Ki.”  Kian said stroking Sarah’s stomach as Shane, Bryan, Nicky, Kate, Kerry and G arrived to wait for the arrival of Liz and Mark’s child.

 

Almost two hours later Liz sat holding their newborn daughter in her arms. "She's so beautiful!" she said as tears ran down her cheeks. "I know. Wonderful." Mark smiled, and sat down on the bed beside them. Liz smiled back at him, and carefully placed their child in his arms. "I can't see, you take her or I'm sure to drop her!" she said, laughing a little. "Hi honey." Mark said, looking at his daughter. "Can we come in already?" Sarah asked from the door, and Liz nodded. "Yes, come on!" she said. Sarah, Kian, Kate, Shane, Georgina, Nicky, Kerry and Bryan all filed into the room. "Awww! She's so cute! Congratulations!" they said, hugging both Mark and Liz. "Thank you." Liz sobbed and smiled. "You all right?" Sarah asked. "Yeah, perfect. I'm just so happy!" Liz laughed, drying her tears. "Soo… have you thought of a name?" Kerry asked. "Have we?" Liz looked at Mark. "Don't know. Don't think so, but we will." he said. "When are they letting you go?" Georgina asked. "Two days I think." Liz answered. "Cool, it'll be great! Except when she's crying at night…" Bryan said, looking at the little girl resting in Mark's arms. "You better be a good girl, coz I'm not getting up in the middle of the night for you!" he said, stroking her head. The others laughed. "Don't worry, Bryan! You won't." Mark said smiling. "Well, we'll leave you two alone then. Take care, and we'll see you soon Liz!" Kate said as they all left. "Thank you!" Mark sat down on the side of the bed again, and looked up at Liz. "I didn't miss it, told you I wouldn't." he said, and she smiled. "I know, and I'm sorry for being mad at you because you were leaving." He smiled and kissed her forehead. "I love you, and I can't wait till we're married!" Liz laughed. "Me neither. I love you too." "I promise that when we get back we're going to start decorating that nursery." Mark smiled at her. "Thank you, Mark! How long are you home for when we get back?" Liz asked. "Not sure, but I promise you now that I'll tell you as soon as I find out. Okay, sweetie?" "Okay." Liz laughed. "What are we going to name her?" Mark asked as he placed the baby in Liz's arms again. "I'm not sure. Do you have any suggestions?" she said, looking at him. "I might have." Mark said, smiling at her.

 

A mini welcoming party was underway on the tour bus three days later when mother and baby returned home.  A bigger one was planned for when they all went home in a few days after Louis had organised some paternity leave for Mark and Kian.  The party was basic with a couple of bottles of champagne and a few KFC buckets but it was enough.  Sarah and Kian had even hung a small banner on the inside of the bus that read ‘Welcome Home Liz And Hannah.’  “Thanks for this guys … it means a lot.”  Liz said as she sipped her champagne whilst sitting in Mark’s arms as Kian practised nappy changing rather unsuccessfully.  “I am not letting you near our kid until you get that to a fine art Ki!”  Sarah shouted as she watched Kian hold up Hannah and the nappy slip off, much to everyone’s amusement.  “So … run through the name again Mark … what have you called the poor thing?”  Bryan said.  “Hannah Jessica Louisa Feehily.”  Mark said proudly.  “Cool … and what about you Sarah – any ideas for your little one yet?”  Bryan asked.  “One or two … Jack … Joel … Ricky … don’t know yet.  Have to decide soon though – nine days and counting!”  Sarah said grinning.  “At least we’ll be home then.”  Kian said as he rejoined the group passing Hannah to Mark after finally mastering the nappy.  “Yeah.  We are going to be so busy though – we have to decorate two nurseries and make the house baby friendly.”  Sarah said.  “Bit of paint … it’ll be a doddle.”  Mark said.  Liz laughed.  “And then we have a lot of sleepless nights to look forward to with two newborns … oh joy!”  They all laughed.  Sarah got up and went into the back area of the bus, returning a few minutes later with a bag.  “Nearly forgot – this is a little pressie from my stomach to Hannah.”  She said passing the bag to Liz.  “Thank you stomach.”  She said smiling as she opened the bag to remove a frame containing a tapestry plaque that read “Hannah Jessica Louisa Feehily.  Born 27^th March 2002.  Beautiful Daughter to Liz and Mark.  Good Luck and God Bless.”  Below the passage was a picture of a pink teddy bear.  “Oh Sarah it's gorgeous thank you!”  Liz said standing and hugging Sarah.  “No problem.  Junior here chose it all!”  She said patting her stomach.  They all laughed and continued to celebrate by finishing off the champagne and the last of the KFC.

 

"Are you ready?" Kian shouted to Sarah. "Hang on, I'll be right out!" she answered, and appeared a few seconds later in the door. "Shall we leave then?" Mark looked at them, and they nodded. "Yeah, let's. Can't wait to get home." Sarah said. "And I love calling it home!" she added, making them laugh. "Have a nice flight! We'll see you back home!" Shane shouted after them and they waved back. "We will! You have fun too!" Mark shouted back before they walked through the doors at the airport. The six others were staying behind two more days, and then they too would be going home. "You did get the doctor's approval to fly, didn't you sweetie?" Kian asked. "Yes, I did. He said I wouldn't give birth for at least two days, so I'm going to trust him on that one!" she smiled back at him, and kissed his cheek. "Don't worry, Kian. We have made sure there's a nurse on the flight just as a precaution, and it is a private jet." Liz said, putting her hand on his shoulder. "I know." he smiled. They boarded the plane, and sat down in the comfy seats. "Aaah! Beats your bus lads!" Sarah grinned as she leaned back. "Yeah, sorry to say but it does!" Liz agreed. Mark and Kian looked at each other, and back at their fiancées with puppy eyes. "Awww!!" Sarah and Liz sighed. The lads couldn't keep a straight face any longer and broke out in smiles. "Oh, you think that was funny did you? Did you?" Mark said as he lifted a giggling Hannah. Liz smiled as she watched them. "Oh yes, very funny! Now let's get you buckled up. Yes!" he smiled and laughed as Hannah kept giggling. Kian and Sarah watched with delight as Hannah started grabbing Mark's sweater when he tried to fasten the belt to secure her. "Oh, I can't wait till we have one of our own!" Kian said, and kissed Sarah. "Me neither!" Finally Mark managed to secure Hannah, and not long after the plane was on its way back to Sligo airport. "Can't wait to go home, and start decorating." Liz said as she rested her head on Mark's shoulder. "Me neither, and next time we go away won't be for that long." he said, kissing her. Liz smiled and looked over at Sarah and Kian. Sarah had fallen asleep, and Kian sat with his arm around her. "Oh, and we have a wedding to plan as well!" Liz smiled, and looked up at Mark. "Yeah, sure we do!" he said. Hannah giggled in her sleep, and Mark and Liz laughed quietly.

 

“At last.”  Sarah said as they finally arrived home after almost 5 months on the road.  “Welcome home Hannah.”  Mark whispered to his sleeping daughter as he carried her inside, with Liz looking on fondly.  “Ok Kian let's get unpacked then we can really kick back.”  He said as he passed Hannah to her mum and carried the bags upstairs with Kian’s help.  The girls went into the kitchen to put the kettle on.  Kian put his and Sarah’s bags in their room and began to unpack when he heard a shout.  “KIAN!!”  He ran out the door and down the stairs almost knocking Mark flying as he did.  He dashed into the kitchen to find Sarah sat on the floor.  “What happened?”  He panted.  “Her waters broke Kian – time to get to the hospital.”  Liz said as she comforted a now awake and crying Hannah.  “Ok – Mark can you get the blue overnight bag from our room whilst I get her into the car.  You ok love?”  “Yeah … just a bit of pain.  Let’s get a move on.  Don’t want our son born on the kitchen floor.”  Kian smiled and guided Sarah out into the car where Mark had put her bag.  “Good luck – Call me!”  Liz shouted after the car as they set off.  When they arrived at Sligo General Sarah’s contractions were closer and closer and more painful.   The doctor examined her immediately.  “Ok Miss Harwood – looks like you won't have long to wait now.  Mr Egan – prepare to become a father.  I’ll be back in a few moments – just sit back and relax.”  The doctor left.  “How you feeling babe?”  Kian asked.  “Excited … nervous … painful – you?”  “Scared … but never in my life have I been more happy.”  After a while the doctor and midwife returned.  After a very short labour Sarah gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, complete with his dad’s eyes and pointy ears.  Kian began to cry as he held his son in his arms.  “Hi baby … I’m your daddy and that lovely lady is your mummy – you are one lucky boy to have such a special mummy.”  “Aww Ki!”  Sarah said as she wiped a tear from her eye and Kian sat beside her on the bed.  “So what do you think … what do we call him?”  She asked.  “I think … Jack.  Jack Egan.  Sounds kind of cool don’t you think?”  “Very.  Just like his daddy.”  The three of them sat hugging on the bed, happy and complete as a family.

 

"I can't wait any longer! Would you get the car, Mark? I have to go see her!" Liz smiled, and Mark nodded. "Back in a sec!" he said, going out to get the car. "Come on Hannah! Let's go visit your auntie Sarah and uncle Kian, and your brand new friend!" she said, and Hannah giggled. "You coming, love?" Mark called from the door, and Liz hurried out. "I'm here, let's go!" They got in the car, and drove off to the hospital. At the hospital, Sarah had just sent Kian out to call Liz and Mark. "What did they say?" she asked as he came back. "Nothing, they didn't pick up." he answered. "What?" Sarah looked at him. "The phone just rang, no answer." Kian said again as he sat down on the bed by her side. "That might be because we're here!" Liz grinned from the door. "I couldn't wait any longer, I just had to come see you guys!" She walked over to them and hugged them both. "Oh Sarah, he's so beautiful! Congratulations!" Sarah smiled. "Thank you!" Mark hugged them too. "Congratulations, now we're just two big happy families!" he said, making them laugh. "So, have you decided on a name yet?" Mark looked at Kian, and then at Sarah. "Actually we have … Jack Egan." Kian said proudly. "Aww! Such a sweet name!" Liz said, and Hannah giggled quietly from her arms. "See? She agrees!" Sarah laughed. "We'll have so much to do when we get back!" she said, rocking Jack in her arms. "Yeah, but first something very important…" Kian said, looking at them. Mark grinned when he knew what he was thinking. "Party!" they both said, making Sarah and Liz laugh. "You are mad!" Liz laughed, turning to Sarah. "So, mum! When are you coming home?" she asked. "Day after tomorrow or maybe even sooner, which means that Ki has to go home and put together that crib for Jack." "Consider it done, my lovely!" Kian said, kissing her softly. "Aww! We'll leave you two to it then." Mark said and smiled at them. "Yeah, besides I've got a few things to pick up. We'll see you tonight then Kian, and you two soon. Take care, both of you!" Liz said as she hugged Sarah. "We will! Bye!" Sarah smiled as they left the room. "I can't wait to go home again." Sarah said. "And I can't wait to have you back home!" Kian said with a smirk. "Oh, just shut up and kiss me!" Sarah laughed. "My pleasure!" Kian smiled as he kissed her.

 

Kian left Sarah and Jack at the hospital and travelled home alone.  Mark was up waiting for him when he got back.  “Hello Dad!”  He said as Kian walked in.  “Hi mate.  Your two ladies in bed?”  “Yeah … Hannah took a bit of tempting to fall asleep and Liz crashed.  I thought I’d wait up for you.  So how are they? When they home?”  “They are fantastic.  I can’t believe I’m a dad.  I mean … I knew it was coming … but now its here … its fantastic.  Jack is gorgeous.  They’ll be home tomorrow lunch.  Which means I have about 12 hours to put that crib thing together.  Help me?”  He asked.  “Sure.”  The two of them went up to the Sarah and Kian’s room and took the box containing the crib out of the wardrobe.  They opened it and took out the pieces, the screws, and the instructions.  “Piece of cake!”  Kian said scanning them.  The two of them set about putting the crib together.  After a while the crib was looking less and less like it should.  “Do you think this is wrong?”  Mark said as they stood back to look at their work.  There were three left over pieces and it looked a little fragile.  “Lets test it.”  Kian said placing a few heavy books in it, and watching them plummet through the base.  Mark laughed.  “Well at least it wasn’t Jack.”  Kian said smirking.  “What on earth?”  Liz said as she came in.  “Hey Liz.”  Kian said.  “You are kidding?”  She said pointing at the crib disaster.  “I think maybe you should go shopping tomorrow morning before you pick them up … maybe buy a ready built one?”  Mark said.  “Possibly.  What do you think Liz?”  Kian said.  “I must agree with Mark.  We can’t have Jack falling out can we?”  Kian smiled.  “Whilst I remember we got you this on our way home.  Put it up before they come back?”  Liz said handing Kian a Winnie-The-Pooh mobile to place over the crib.  “Aww thanks guys.”  Kian said hugging them both.  He hung it over where the new crib would be placed when he’d bought it.  “I’m hitting the sack – coming Mark?”  Liz said.  “Yeah.  Night Kian.”  Mark said walking out with Liz.  “Night guys.”  Kian replied as he lay back on his bed with a broad smile on his face, falling asleep dreaming of his fiancée and son.

 

"I've got to say," Liz said as she climbed into the bed next to Mark. "You lads did a marvellous job on that crib!" Mark laughed. "Yeah, don't you think?" he said, putting his arm around her. "Sarah would have a fit if she'd seen it! Thank God Kian's going to buy another one." Liz smiled. Soon they were both asleep, smiling as they dreamt of their future. In her distant sleep Liz heard someone cry, and at first she took no notice thinking it was something in her dream. "Oh darn!" Liz swung her feet out of the bed, and grabbed her dressing gown. "Man! Isn't this embarrassing, I'd almost forgot about Hannah!" she muttered to herself under her breath as she hit the light switch in the nursery. The light revealed Hannah smiling sweetly as Kian rocked her. "Kian?" Liz said, somewhat surprised to find him there. "Oh, hi. Sorry to disturb you guys." Kian said, smiling at her. "Not at all, I thought maybe we would disturb you.” she said, taking Hannah. "Nah, I just heard her cry when I went to get some water, and thought I'd pop in. Need the practise!" he said, laughing. "Well, thank you very much Kian! You are so kind!" Liz hugged him. "And don't you worry, you'll have plenty to do when Jack and Sarah comes back." Kian smiled widely, and nodded. "Yeah, sure will. Well, good night. See you tomorrow morning!" Kian said as he left. "Yeah, good night!" Liz sat down in a chair, cradling Hannah in her arms. "So, you don't want to sleep do you, darling?" she said quietly. Hannah just smiled back at her. "Want me to sing a lullaby for you?" Hannah kept smiling. Liz smiled back as she started to sing softly, not to wake Mark. "Lullaby, and goodnight, in the sky stars are bright, 'round your head flowers gay, set your slumbers till day…" Mark stood in the door, looking at them and listening to Liz singing. She didn't notice Mark standing in the door until she'd put the now sleeping Hannah back in her crib, and was on her way back to bed. "God!" she said when she saw him. "You scared me!" Mark smiled. "Sorry, I woke up and you were gone, and then I heard you talking. Sing me a lullaby too?" he asked as he turned off the light and led her back to bed. Liz laughed. "We'll see about that!" she said. "I can give you something else in stead." Mark looked at her, and grinned. "Oh, like what?" he asked. "Like this…" Liz said, and kissed him. "Mmm… much better!" Mark said, and she laughed as he leaned to kiss her again.

 

The following morning Kian went out into town first thing to buy a new pre-built crib so to avoid any more D.I.Y problems.  He put it in the back of Mark’s 4x4 and went back home to set it up.  “Looks the same.”  Liz said.  “She’ll never know!”  Kian grinned as he saw Liz stood in the doorway holding Hannah.  “Hopefully.”  He said looking at the clock.  “Man its 11 o’clock.  Better run … I’m picking them up in an hour and I have to fit the car seat!!”  Kian dashed past Liz and down the stairs and began tackling the car seat, which went far better than the crib.  He then left for the hospital.  “And how is my gorgeous family this morning?”  Kian asked as he walked into the maternity ward where Sarah was sat with Jack in her arms.  “We are fine … and can't wait to get home can we Jack?”  Baby Jack gurgled in his mummy’s arms as Kian kissed him on the head then kissed Sarah.  “Let’s get going then.”  Kian picked up Sarah’s overnight bag and the three of them went out to the car.  Jack was carefully strapped into the car seat and they all set off home.  When they arrived home Liz and Mark were in the lounge with Hannah trying to put up a banner.  “Up a bit to the left.”  Sarah said as she walked in.  “Sarah!!”  Liz screamed as she ran over with Hannah.  “Hello.”  Sarah said hugging her.  “Jack this is Hannah.”  Sarah said introducing the two newborns.  Mark and Kian laughed as they successfully stuck up the banner.  They all went up to Kian and Sarah’s room to inspect the crib.  “Oh the mobile is lovely.  Thanks Hannah!”  Sarah said tickling Hannah’s cheek making her giggle.  “What do you say Sarah … how’s about we let the dad’s take over whilst we go relax?”  Liz suggested.  “Sounds like a plan.”  Sarah said passing Jack to Kian as Liz passed Hannah to Mark.  They went downstairs and grabbed a bottle of wine and two glasses and went into the garden to relax and do what they do best – chat!

 

Later that same day as they were all out in the garden enjoying the warm April sun, there was a knock at the door. "I'll go!" Liz said, jumping up. "Need more wine anyway!" Sarah smiled. Liz opened the door and let out a little scream of joy and surprise. "We heard rumours about a party…?" Bryan grinned, and hugged her. "You heard right! Come on in, the others are out in the garden." Liz said laughing and hugging them as they filed in. "I thought you lot weren't back until tomorrow." she said, hugging Shane. "Change of plans!" he said, and Kate smiled. "Go on out, but I need a volunteer to help me carry. We need more glasses and such!" "I'll give you a hand." Kerry offered as the other five headed outside. "Hello!" Nicky said as he came out. "Nicky?!" Sarah smiled as she hugged him and the others. "Hi guys! You're early!" "Like I told Liz, change of plans!" Shane said. "Awww! Sarah, he's adorable!" Kate gushed as Kian and Mark joined them with the babies. "Thank you. Looks like his dad!"  Sarah said, and they laughed. "Yeah, I'd know those ears anywhere!" Bryan joked. "Oi! Shut it, Bry!" Kian laughed. "Everyone, this is Jack. Jack, this is your aunts and uncles!" Jack looked at them all for a while, then he started smiling and broke out in giggles as Kerry and Liz came out. "Oh, he's so cute!" Kerry said, hugging Sarah and Kian in turn. "Drink anyone?" Liz asked, and an ocean of hands was raised. "Okay, come and get it yourself. I'll never remember all those orders!" she laughed. Soon after they were all talking and laughing, or playing with Jack and Hannah. "You two are so lucky!" G said. Sarah and Liz smiled at each other. "Yeah, we are." "Oh, before we forget completely!" Nicky said, standing up. "We've got something for you. We just couldn't resist when we saw them, so we just had to get them for you." he said, and smiled. Bryan and Shane disappeared inside, and came back with two huge teddy bears, one blue and one pink. "These aren't for the parents, but for Hannah and Jack, from all their cool aunts and uncles!" Shane said, making them all laugh. "Thank you guys! You are so great!" Liz said, getting out of her chair and hugging them all with Sarah in close pursuit. "People, your attention please!" Bryan said, and they all turned to him. He was standing on a table, smiling down at them. "I just wanted to say that it's so great being back home, with all the ten - well, 12 now - people in the world. We've had so much fun together, and we've had our dramas as well, especially the two Egans over there!" he said pointing to Sarah and Kian who stood in each others arms, holding Jack. Everyone laughed before Bryan continued. "And it won't be long until Ireland will see the most beautiful double wedding featuring two of our all time top five favourite couples; Sarah and Kian, and Mark and Liz! So in conclusion; we can't wait for the wedding, and hopefully there will be three others to come as well, and more toddlers too! You lot are all my very best friends, and I love you all. I wouldn't want anyone else to be here with me, and share all these fantastic and highly treasured memories that we all share. Here's to us all, our futures, our children, all the memories that we are still to share, and all the number one's we're still to have lads! Here's to all that, and may you all still be here with me in all our years to come!" he finished, and they all raised their glasses. "Cheers!"