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Halo Ch. 01

By: Mygypsy



Hallo to all who follow my stories. I have been asked numerous times to put a note on which story goes where in the series I have written.

It all started with Stolen. Then Ren: Shades of Grey overlaps from Chapter 6 of Stolen; this is Ren's side of the story as it unfolds. It also overlaps into the next story inline: Shattered Dreams starts where Stolen finishes as Ren puts Sky/Janey on the bus home. Brad & 'Tanaya takes up the story a year later.

I did say I would add a final chapter to Ren: Shades of Grey but once again the Characters have had a mind of their own and the chapters just keep rolling so I am doing Halo. This takes up not long after Brad & 'Tanaya finishes. (the title comes from the song sung by Beyonce. My youngest daughter remarked 'it's a wonder you don't use this song as inspiration for your story Mum'). 

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

Janey tucked the blanket around her son securely before turning and leaving the room. It was just after dark and Nicky had fallen asleep after a long day playing on the sand at the beach.

At eleven months old her son was a live wire who kept her busy just keeping up with him. The trip to the beach had been an attempt to divert him from what had been upsetting him, missing the weekend visits to his natural father. He had been upset on and off for the last two weeks as it was nearly three weeks since he had seen his father; it was worse of a Saturday when he would sit and cry when the afternoon soccer game was watched by his Grandfather.

Janey walked into the lounge room and sat beside Adam on the lounge; he came to visit on Thursday when he had two days off but had to go back to work Saturday afternoon.

"Marina, would you mind keeping an eye on Nicky now he's gone to sleep so I can take Janey for a walk along the beach in the moonlight?" Adam asked Janey's mother with a charming smile.

Marina glanced at Janey but her daughter didn't react so she nodded slightly, "Yes, I'll keep a watch on Nicky."

Adam got to his feet and held a hand out to help Janey to her feet; she went to follow him towards the door but hesitated.

"I'd best go to the toilet before we go," Janey said and hurried towards the bathroom. When she returned a few minutes later she walked over to where Adam waited by the door.

"You kids don't stay out too late. We were planning an early night," Jim called after them.

"Okay Dad," Janey called back over her shoulder before shutting the door behind her.

Janey followed Adam to his car and got into the passenger seat while he got behind the wheel. She put her seat belt on and glanced across at him as he started the car; Adam glanced across at her and smiled as he turned the car towards the coastal road.

"Mum and Dad do know why we go for a drive each time you're here," Janey said dryly.

"But each time I get put in one of the boy's rooms." Adam said with a frown, "And where do they think you sleep when you visit me in Brisbane?" 

Janey smiled at Adam's annoyance and reached out one hand to pat his thigh.

"So where are we going tonight?" Janey asked softly.

"The beach," Adam said as he turned onto the main road.

Janey smothered a sigh of irritation. Adam annoyed her in the fact he seemed to have no imagination when it came to the relationship between them.

The headlights of the car illuminated a well-travelled road towards one of the more private beaches and Janey wasn't surprised to realise Adam was there. The more private the spot the better he liked it; she had realised some months back that he didn't like the chance they might be discovered or interrupted by someone else.

When Adam parked the car and turned the engine off Janey waited to see what he was going to do; to her surprise he reached over the back and retrieved a blanket from the backseat before getting out of the car.

Janey got out her side and locked the door before falling into step along side of him; he caught her hand and held it as they walked along the path that led to the beach. As the local shrubbery became thicker Janey began to feel uneasy; the thin sliver of the moon cast eerie shadows and her steps began to falter.

"Can we go somewhere else?" Janey asked suddenly as she attempted to stop.

"It's just past these bushes," Adam said keeping a firm hold on her hand as he continued forward.

Janey found herself forced to either follow him or risk being dragged along by his momentum. She tensed as she forced herself to keep going and then she stood at the edge of a small clearing.

Adam released Janey's hand unaware of her discomfort and quickly spread the blanket on the thick grass; he turned to her and held his hand out.

Janey stepped into his embrace glad of the comfort; she could feel his hands stroking her back and turned her face to his for his kiss. His lips were soft and moist against hers and she opened her mouth trying to encourage him. She wanted him to chase away the cold tendrils of fear that had spread across her skin.

Adam broke off the kiss reluctantly and raised his head to look down at Janey; she buried her face against the crook of his neck as she kissed the skin there.

"How about we sit down on the blanket?" Adam asked softly.

Janey kept her face turned into his body, not looking past him into the darkness beyond. Her nod was nearly lost against his shoulder but Adam, already sure of her compliance was lifting her into his arms as he sat down, pulling her onto his lap as he settled himself comfortably.

This time when Adam kissed her, his lips were firmer and his hands began to roam her body. One hand reached between them to cup a breast while the other rested in the small of her back making her arch into his body more fully.

As Adam turned his attention to the sensitive skin on her neck Janey tilted her head back to give him better access; she glimpsed the shadows beyond his shoulder and shifted uncomfortably.

Janey tensed as Adam eased her down onto her back and moved to lay half on top of her, one thigh over her legs as he pulled at the bottom of her shirt. She couldn't help glancing to one side and seeing the shadows that lurked there.

"Adam, do we have to be here?" Janey asked as he managed to get his hand beneath the material and work his fingers up over her ribs.

"It's a nice private spot, " Adam mumbled before turning his attention back to her lips.

Janey kept her eyes open as he kissed her, only half her attention on what was happening between them as she kept glancing at the darkness and shadows that seemed to move and dance on their own.

"Relax," Adam urged trying to get Janey to stop being so tense.

Janey turned her face away from his kisses and pushed against his shoulders slightly.

"Let's find some other place Adam," Janey urged. When Adam didn't stop his advances immediately Janey began to push against his shoulders more forcefully. "Not here Adam!" Janey protested.

Adam rolled away from Janey with a frustrated groan; already he was fully aroused and stopping meant moving to another place.

"What is wrong with you?" Adam demanded annoyed.

"I don't feel comfortable here," Janey said faintly intimidated by his annoyance. Adam very rarely got angry with her or allowed his annoyance to show while he was with her and she wasn't used to dealing with him in those moods.

Adam got to his feet abruptly and reached down to take a corner of the blanket in his hand; he looked at Janey when she didn't immediately jump to her feet and frowned with annoyance.

"Well let's go find some place you like," Adam muttered.

Janey got to her feet hurriedly and turned away from Adam as he picked the blanket up, shook it and folded it roughly.

"Come on," Adam said impatiently and strode off back the way they had come.

Janey hurried to follow him in the dark, glancing around nervously at the bushes as she made her way through them. Fear sent icy finger up her spine as she imagined she could hear movement in the bushes that wasn't being made by her or Adam.

Adam was unlocking the car as Janey finally made it to the end of the path and she hurried to the passenger door quickly. She got in the car when he unlocked the door and glanced across at him uneasily as she fastened her seat belt.

"Any preference as to where we go?" Adam asked as he forced himself to be calm.

"How about that little clearing over by the lookout? It's a nice quiet spot, no-one has ever disturbed us there," Janey said hesitantly.

Adam gave a barely audible grunt as he turned the key and the engine came to life. 

There was no conversation as he drove the fifteen minutes to the spot Janey had mentioned; he hadn't even parked the car when Janey's mobile phone started beeping.

Janey pulled the phone out of her pocket and looked at the screen. She frowned and answered it as she recognised her parent's home phone number.

"Hallo, hi Mum." Janey said and listened for nearly a minute. She sighed heavily before answering," Okay Mum, we'll start heading back now, bye." 

Janey pressed the call end button and glanced across at Adam, "Nicky has woken up and he won't settle down for Mum or Dad. He just keeps calling for me," Janey explained. She didn't tell Adam that her mother had said that Nicky had also been crying for his father.

Adam said nothing as he turned the car around and headed back towards Janey's parent's house. He was annoyed over his plans for the night being thwarted but knew there was no way around it.

When Adam slowed the car to park in front of her parents house Janey was quick to undo her seatbelt and hurry inside to check to see if by some chance her mother had managed to settle Nicky down.

Janey could hear her son crying as soon as she opened the front door and she hurried to her room where she found her mother pacing the room holding Nicky up against her shoulder. Nicky turned his hot and sweaty tear stained face towards his mother and let out a trembling sigh at the sight of her.

"Daddaddaddad," Nicky murmured mournfully.

"Oh Nicky," Janey sighed as she reached out and lifted her son into her arms. He clung to her tightly as if he feared she would be spirited away from him and burrowed against her neck. 

"Daddaddaddad," he whimpered fretfully.

Janey sat down on her bed and closed her eyes for a few moments as the futility of the situation ate at her; she was trying to protect her son but all she was doing was causing him to be unhappy.

"I know, I know," Janey murmured softly as she rocked him back and forth. After a few minutes he allowed her to turn him so that she could cradle him in her arms, his head resting against her breasts as she rocked him gently. Nicky whimpered several times and kicked briefly but soon he was sound asleep; Janey continued to hold him for a while before tucking him back into his bed.

With Nicky asleep and in bed Janey made her way to the lounge room and sat down tiredly.

"Nicky asleep?" Adam asked as she settled next to him.

"Yes," Janey said as she leant into his side as he put an arm around her.

"James and Lydia will be here for the weekend," Marina said as she came into the room and sat down.

Janey glanced her way but made no comment as she turned her attention back to the tv; she could feel the tension in Adam's body and knew he was suffering from having their night's excursion interrupted.

"How about we go for a walk?" Janey asked Adam softly then groaned as she heard the faint sounds of Nicky crying in her room once more.

"Why don't you go put Nicky to sleep," Adam said softly with a quick kiss on her cheek.

Janey grimaced and hurried to her feet and headed for her room; Nicky was sitting up in his cot crying and rubbing his eyes miserably.

"Hey, what's wrong with Mummy's little man?" Janey asked softly as she picked him up and moved to her bed, she lay down with him cuddled against her and stroked the hair back off his face soothingly.

Half an hour later Marina checked to see if Janey had managed to get Nicky to sleep once again and found both Janey and Nicky fast asleep; she pulled the bed covers over the two of them and left the room quietly.

The next morning Adam left just after he had breakfast with Janey and Nicky so that he could stop by his flat to pick up his good suit and drop it off at the dry cleaners on his way to work.

* * * * *

Brad was on the roof cleaning leaves out of the guttering when he heard his mobile phone ringing. He glanced at the ladder the other end of the roof then looked at Ren who was raking up the rubbish from the guttering that had fallen to the ground when Brad removed it.

"Could you get my phone for me?" Brad called down to his friend.

Ren glanced around, realised 'Tanaya was inside and walked over to where their phones sat on the outdoor table in the shade.

"Number unavailable," Ren called to Brad.

"Answer it would you!" Brad yelled back.

"Hallo, Brad Stanton's phone, Gabe speaking," Ren said. He had found people in the town responded better if he used his Christian name.

"Oh, ummm, is ah, is Brad there?" a hesitant voice asked on the other end.

"Yeah, I'll pass the phone to him. Who will I say is calling?" Ren asked as he headed towards the tank stand near where Brad was working on the roof.

"Janey and Nicky," Janey said on the other end of the phone.

"Well hallo there Janey," Ren said with a smile as he glanced up at Brad who moved to the roof near the tank stand eagerly. "This is Gabriel Renford, Ren. I'll just hand the phone up to Brad. He's on the roof cleaning out the guttering. Bye for now."

Ren quickly climbed onto the tank stand and passed the phone up to Brad who reached down for it eagerly.

"Hi Janey, it's good to hear from you. How's Nicky?" Brad asked hurriedly.

"Oh ah, Nicky's fine. He misses you terribly but," Janey said softly. " Was that just Ren?"

"Yeah, it was Ren. I miss Nicky badly too, are you going to let me see him some time soon?" Brad asked trying to keep his voice calm.

"Yes, Nicky needs to see you. Can you promise 'Tanaya won't do anything to him or do anything that could cause him harm?" Janey asked with an edge to her voice.

"Janey I promise you that I will be with Nicky all the time and anyone, anyone I think might be a danger to him won't be allowed near him," Brad said earnestly.

Ren watched as Brad waited with baited breath for a response from Janey; he could tell by the worried look on his face that she wasn't talking.

"Janey?" Brad questioned softly.

"I'd feel more comfortable if I was there with Nicky," Janey said after a few minutes pause.

"You're welcome to be here but it is 'Tanaya's home as well as mine and I must ask that you are polite to her and accord her the respect she is due in her own home," Brad said levelly.

"As long as you promise there are no drugs or anything around where Nicky will be," Janey said firmly.

"I know you don't believe me but 'Tanaya is not the person she was in the past. She is not in that situation anymore. I guarantee there are no drugs in the house," Brad said levelly.

"Will this afternoon be okay?" Janey asked refusing to comment on what Brad had said.

"I'll be finished what I'm doing in about ten minutes. Anytime after that is fine. If you like you can come over before lunch and we can do a picnic in the park with Nicky, he'd love that," Brad coaxed gently.

"Will ... uh... will Ren be there this afternoon?" Janey asked after a moment's awkwardness.

"Yes, is there a problem with that?" Brad asked softly.

"No, no there's no problem. I'd like to see him," Janey admitted.

"So will you come over for lunch?" Brad asked hopefully.

"Ummm," Janey sounded indecisive as she thought for several seconds, "okay, I'll um be there in about ...ummm, an hour?"

"That'll be perfect," Brad said with a huge grin as he glanced down at Ren. He noticed that 'Tanaya had come out of the house and was walking towards Ren while she shaded her eyes and looked up at him on the roof.

"I'll see you in about an hour," Brad said and then hung up. He looked down at the two people on the ground for few seconds.

"She's coming visiting?" Ren asked with a smile.

"Yes!" Brad said triumphantly.

"Who's coming to visit?" 'Tanaya asked curiously.

"Janey's bringing Nicky over to see me!" Brad said happily.

'Tanaya smiled happily up at him for a moment then frowned, "I guess I can go over to Brent and Matty's place for the afternoon."

"It'll be okay, you can stay here." Brad said gently.

"I don't want to cause problems," 'Tanaya denied.

"There won't be any problem," Ren said evenly.

"Let's get this job finished so I can go in and clean up before Nicky gets here," Brad said and turned his attention back to the leaf filled gutter.

Half an hour later the job was finished and the yard cleaned to Brad's satisfaction. Both men went into the house to shower and change out of their grubby work clothes.

* * * * *

Janey paced the veranda of her parent's home anxiously; she was waiting for her brother to return from town so he could help her take Nicky to visit Brad. She didn't want to go there by herself as she didn't feel capable of facing having to see 'Tanaya again after what she had learnt about the woman.

She glanced at her watch impatiently before heading inside to check if Nicky had woken from his nap yet. She had told Brad she'd be there after about an hour and now it was nearly an hour and a half from when she had rang him. Nicky was asleep and James was busy in town.

Janey walked to the lounge room where her mother was doing the ironing and stood watching her silently for nearly a minute before she spoke.

"I think I'm going to try to head over to Lennox by myself. I should be back just after dark," Janey forced herself to say calmly.

Marina paused what she was doing and looked at her daughter. "You sure you'll be okay by yourself?" she asked Janey.

"I won't know if I can do it if I don't try," Janey said uneasily.

"Okay, well I'll just turn this iron off and give you a hand getting things to the car," Marina said as she turned the iron off.

Janey and Marina loaded the nappy bag and an over night bag for Nicky into the car before Janey woke Nicky from his nap and carried him out to the car.

"Are you going to leave him overnight with B-r-a-d?" Marina asked as she spelt the name out so she wouldn't upset Nicky.

"I don't know. it depends on how Nicky is. We should be home just after dark. I'll let you know if I change my plans," Janey said as she walked around to the driver's door.

Marina looked towards the west and frowned at the clouds on the horizon. "We'll probably get a thunder storm tonight," she warned her daughter knowing how Janey hated storms.

"I'll keep an eye on the clouds," Janey reassured her mother.

"I'll see you tonight then," Marina said and watched as Janey started her car and drove away.

By the time Janey had driven to the town where Brad lived she was very nervous as she turned onto the street the house was in. She parked the car in the usual spot in the shade of a large tree and sighed as she turned the engine off.

She took a deep breath and glanced at Nicky who was looking around excitedly.

"Daddad," Nicky said and began to pull at his seat harness.

Janey got out of the car and opened the back door to reach in and free Nicky; he climbed out of his seat and into her arms, excited. She heard the front door of the house open and glanced towards the front of the house; Brad was standing just outside the front door looking towards her anxiously.

Janey grabbed Nicky's nappy bag as well as her purse before shutting the car door and heading towards the gate into the front yard. Nicky wriggled to get down and Janey paused to set him on his feet. She held one hand and matched her steps to his wobbling steps as he toddled along the path.


Halo Ch. 01



Brad knelt down and held his hands out towards his son; Nicky hesitated a moment then released Janey's hand as he reached for Brad's outstretched hands. Janey smiled as she watched Nicky walk the few steps to his father.

"He's walking!" Brad exclaimed as he picked him up and cuddled him close. The look he shot Janey was almost accusing.

Janey gave a slight nod. "He started taking steps without holding onto anything three days ago," she said with a shrug. Janey felt as if she had stolen her son's progress from Brad but how could she continue to let him see Nicky while 'Tanaya was around?

"Let's go inside," Brad said, turned around and headed inside.

Janey was left no real option other then to follow him; inside the hallway she could hear a vacuum cleaner running and found 'Tanaya cleaning the lounge room carpet as she reached the lounge room.

"Well hallo there Blondie," Ren said from the doorway to the kitchen.

Janey felt the heat rise in her cheeks as she blushed and she looked down as she avoided his gaze.

"Hallo," her reply was barely audible.

'Tanaya turned the vacuum cleaner off and turned around to face Brad, Nicky and Janey. She smiled as she saw Nicky but her gaze was guarded as she looked at Janey.

"Hallo Janey."

Janey watched her for several seconds before responding. "'Tanaya,"

"I cleaned the lounge room floor in case you thought it might be better to have the picnic in here because of the wind that has picked up outside," 'Tanaya said evenly.

Janey glanced about the room, it was spotless as usual and 'Tanaya did have a point about the wind outside.

"Nicky would probably be more comfortable here," Janey admitted almost reluctantly.

"We have a picnic rug we can put down and make it a party for him," Brad said eagerly.

Janey looked at Nicky where he clung to his father's neck and bounced in his arms happily as he watched Ren. Ren was watching Nicky as he appeared about his father's shoulder then disappeared yet again.

Suddenly Nicky spotted 'Tanaya and laughed excitedly, " 'Nay! Nay!" he called as he held his arms out towards her.

'Tanaya glanced towards Janey uncertainly and wasn't surprised to see the raw anger on her face.

"So what have you been up to since last year? Anything interesting?" Ren asked as he stepped between the two women blocking Janey's view of 'Tanaya.

"I ...I ...I..." Janey stammered as she tried to look round Ren's shoulders at 'Tanaya but Ren slipped an arm around her upper back and guided her into the kitchen.

"How about we look at what food is in the fridge while you tell me." Ren said gently, "now don't you fret about Nicky, Brad is with him and he'll look after him."

Janey glanced down at her hand that Ren had taken hold of when he had taken his arm from around her; his hand was warm and strong as it held hers gently.

"I don't know what to tell you," Janey said softly.

"You been doing any courses or just looking after Nicky?" Ren asked.

"I look after Nicky and there's no just about it - he's a handful. I used to go to counselling sessions twice a week but after I had Nicky I only go once a week and sometimes I go to a group meeting," Janey said with a touch of defiance in her voice.

"It's good you go to counselling. Hawk did some bad things," Ren said quietly.

Janey pulled her hand from his and moved away. She didn't want to talk about that time in her life. It was over and done with and she just wanted to forget it.

Ren watched her turn and move away. He knew it would take time to build trust between them and was willing to wait for it to happen.

"Ever had a warm beef salad?" Ren asked.

Janey turned around curiously. Ren was watching her and she felt the warmth of a blush rise in her face as she looked away very conscious of his eyes on her.

"What is it?" Janey asked and flicked a quick glance his way.

"Herb and salt crusted beef cooked and sliced and tossed through some baby spinach and rocket with balsamic vinaigrette dressing," Ren explained.

"Sounds interesting," Janey said turning her full attention to him.

"Nicky like chicken?" Ren asked as he began putting salad ingredients on the table.

"He loves roasted chicken, but I only give him the breast meat. And tomatoes, cheese, beetroot and pineapple," Janey named some of the items Ren had placed on the table.

"Would you like to make up a plate of food for Nicky while I do the warm beef salad for the adults?" Ren asked.

"Yes, I can do that," Janey agreed. She froze for a few moments as she remembered that Ren had never ordered her to prepare food for him instead he had always asked if she would help while he prepared food.

"Something wrong Blondie?" Ren asked when he saw how Janey stood for a few moments staring into space vacantly. He noticed she gave a start and an uneasy glance his way before reaching for the plastic bowl he was holding out towards her.

"Brad was over the moon when you rang to ask if he wanted to see Nicky. He was on the roof cleaning the guttering out and I thought he was going to float off the roof," Ren said with a smile.

"Nicky's been missing him terribly," Janey admitted softly.

"And you're just trying to be a good Mum and do what's best for Nicky," Ren said softly.

Janey glanced his way quickly; she hadn't heard any censure in his voice. She was sick of everyone else thinking they knew what was best for her and Nicky.

"Nicky is certainly a happy friendly little boy from what I've seen of him. You must be proud of the job you've done with him so far," Ren said reaching out and giving one of her hands a quick squeeze.

Ren watched as a shy smile lit up Janey's face; the glow from within lighting up her face and adding beauty to her shinning eyes.

"Thank you," Janey said.

"You're welcome Sweetheart."

Janey turned back to the food on the table. The warm feeling stayed with her as she began putting food in the bowl for Nicky. When she was satisfied with the food in the bowl she carried it into the lounge room where she stopped and watched as Brad was spreading the picnic rug on the floor and pretending to cover up Nicky and not be able to find him.

"Boo!" Nicky shouted and burst into giggles before crawling to Brad and pulling himself up using Brad's shirt. Nicky then turned around and walked in his wobbly steps to 'Tanaya who was helping spread the blanket out, he put his arms around her neck and pressed his lips to her cheek and gave a wet sounding "Ahhhhhhhhhhh!"

"Here's Nicky's food!" Janey snapped as she placed the plate on the floor and hurried back to the kitchen, almost colliding with Ren who was only two steps behind her.

Ren watched Janey moving jerkily. She kept glancing towards the lounge room and he realised that she was worrying about leaving Nicky in the same room as 'Tanaya without being there herself.

"Want to learn how to do the warm salad?" Ren asked when she continued to pace.



Halo Ch. 02



Janey sat on the lounge watching Brad on the lounge room floor playing with building blocks with Nicky. Brad would build a tower of blocks and then Nicky would take great pleasure in knocking them over.

It was mid afternoon and Nicky was showing signs of being tired. He usually had a nap about this time and Janey was just waiting for him to stop playing and crawl onto her lap so he could go to sleep.

She was very aware of the fact that Ren was sitting on the other end of the lounge and there was not much room in between them but so far he had been the perfect gentleman. She was acutely aware of him and her body was responding to his occasional glance but he had not said anything or touched her in any way sexual.

Janey watched as Nicky rubbed his eyes tiredly and looked around; she smiled fondly at him and he moved to his hands and knees. She watched in stunned disbelief as he crawled to 'Tanaya who was sitting in the recliner chair and pulled himself up to his feet using her legs and the chair.

"Up, up," Nicky demanded clearly as he reached plump arms up towards 'Tanaya.

'Tanaya hesitated and glanced swiftly towards Janey.

"Go on, he's tired and is nearly ready to go to sleep." Janey said tightly.

As 'Tanaya picked Nicky up and settled him against her shoulder Janey felt a hand settle over hers and she glanced down to see that Ren had placed his hand over hers silently offering her comfort and moral support; she turned her hand over and laced her fingers through his, accepting his comfort and support.

"How about we go for a drive down town? I want to get a couple of things," Ren said quietly.

"But..." Janey protested softly but Ren used his free hand to place his fingers against her lips and still any protests.

"Brad will be here. You trust him don't you?" Ren asked quietly.

"Yes but..." Janey tried to protest once again but Ren merely smiled and leant close to silence her with a light kiss.

His lips were soft and warm as they brushed her mouth lightly and she sighed faintly as she closed her eyes. He kept the kiss light as he brushed his lips back and forth without deepening the kiss. 

When Ren broke off the kiss Janey opened her eyes reluctantly, realised what had happened and pulled away from him with a jerk as she got to her feet.

Ren got to his feet and placed one hand in the small of Janey's back to guide her towards the hallway.

"I need to grab my wallet and keys," Ren said softly.

"We can take my car," Janey said without looking his way.

Ren knew that it was probably the need to have some form of escape at the ready that motivated her suggestion but made no objection. He was well aware of the need to build trust between them as well as taking the time for Janey to become accustomed to what was for her a new basis of their friendship.

Ren made no objection when Janey climbed behind the wheel and sat in the driver's seat. In fact he smiled not at all worried to have someone else drive.

"Where to?" Janey asked once she had the vehicle started.

"The local supermarket thanks," Ren said.

Janey was silent as she concentrated on driving to the supermarket. She didn't want to make any type of mistake with her driving in front of Ren.

"If you park near the side street I can run in and grab what I want," Ren said.

"Any reason I can't come in as well?" Janey asked as she glanced his way.

"It's fine by me," Ren said with a smile.

Janey glanced away and reminded herself she would have to be careful and keep her wits about her especially when he smiled - he was too darned handsome for her own good.

"How long have you had your license?" Ren asked as she parked the car easily.

"My 'P' plates? Since a month after Nicky was born," Janey said with a touch of defiance.

Ren laughed softly. He knew she was thinking about when she took his panel van and drove it to get away. So she was worried that he was upset over that?

"It was only a vehicle, it could be replaced. Unlike the driver." Ren said.

Janey gave a startled gasp and darted a worried look his way. 

'How had he known what I was thinking?' She wondered.

"Well let's go inside," Ren said as he got out of the car and shut the door.

Janey was slower getting out of the vehicle and darted a nervous look his way as she made her way to the front of the vehicle. She felt more secure as she felt his hand settle in the small of her back as they headed inside the supermarket. She felt her shoulder brush against him but remained close as he grabbed a trolley and headed down the first aisle of the supermarket.

"Will you be bringing Nicky over tomorrow?" Ren asked with a glance.

"If Brad wants to see him." Janey said softly.

"Brad thinks the world of that boy," Ren said as he took a loaf of bread from a shelf and put it in the trolley.

Janey walked beside Ren as he gathered what he wanted from the shelves. He was talking about non-important things as they walked from aisle to aisle, and she found herself enjoying the outing instead of finding it the nerve-racking experience it usually was when she went out in public.

Ren took his time selecting the groceries he wanted and when he was finally finished he gently guided Janey towards the checkout. 

Janey watched as Ren paid for his purchase and then they headed out to her car; she waited while he put the bags in the back seat and then returned the trolley to the front of the store before she got into the car.

Ren got in the car and glanced across at Janey as she sat motionless for a few moments.

"Is there something wrong?" Ren asked gently.

"I need to say something you might not want to hear. After you kissed me today and what you said just before leaving the christening," Janey said and sent him a nervous glance. "I want you to leave me alone. I'm engaged to Adam and we're getting married sometime in the near future!" Janey said with a rush.

Ren sat motionless for a few seconds as he let what she had said sink in. Finally he gave a slight nod, "I promise not to do anything you don't want."

Janey took a deep breath as she stared out the front windscreen. His reaction to what she had said wasn't what she had expected and somehow she had the idea his reply wasn't what she wanted him to say.

"I mean it, I'm with Adam." Janey said tightly and started the vehicle. She half expected him to react to her statement as she started the car moving but he said nothing.

Ren was silent on the short ride back to the house; what she had said to him came as a total shock but he had meant what he had said, that he wouldn't do anything she didn't want him to do. And frankly he didn't believe she knew exactly what she wanted at the moment.

The house was silent when Ren opened the door and let them in. He paused as he walked down the hallway and glanced at the closed door of bedroom that Brad and 'Tanaya used. He glanced over his shoulder at Janey and saw the tight look on her face.

"How about a cup of coffee?" he asked lightly as he headed for the kitchen.

Janey stopped just inside the kitchen door and watched as he placed his bags of groceries on the table before turning the kettle on to boil.

"Take a seat and make yourself comfortable," Ren said easily.

Janey hesitated a few moments before doing as he had said; she looked around the kitchen trying to avoid watching him as he put the shopping away in a cupboard.

"You still like your coffee white with one sugar?" Ren asked as he put two cups on the bench and reached for the jar of instant coffee.

Janey looked at him startled that he had even known how she liked her coffee.

"White? One sugar?" Ren asked when she failed to answer even when he poured the boiling water into the cups.

"Yes," Janey's answer was so soft he almost missed it except for the fact that he saw her lips move.

"Here you go," Ren said as he placed her coffee in front of her before taking his own cup and sitting on the other side of the table.

"You still live with your parents?" The question surprised Janey and she looked at Ren startled.

"I don't do so well by myself a lot of the time," Janey finally said looking away from his piercing gaze. She felt as if he had been able to see right through her and see what she had been thinking and feeling.

"And it helps to have people you trust close by," Ren said quietly.

Janey nodded without saying a word; she stared down into her coffee cup lost in thought as she wished she was able to cope on her own all the time.

"Want a tim-tam?" Ren asked as he opened a packet of the biscuits and took one out to dunk in his coffee.

"Ewww, gross, no thanks." Janey said with a vigorous shake of her head.

Ren laughed softly and popped the melting biscuit into his mouth and closed his eyes and gave a moan of pure pleasure.

Janey found herself staring at his mouth as he chewed the biscuit; her eyes glued to his lips as his tongue crept out to lick the melted chocolate from his top lip. She found herself licking her own lip as she watched him and when she glanced up pulling her gaze from his lips she found him watching her through eyes dark with desire.

Ren smiled to himself as Janey gave a startled gasp and jerked her gaze away from his. He hadn't been surprised to find her watching him. He had been able to feel the heat of her gaze on his lips while he was eating the biscuit.

"Sure you don't want a biscuit?" Ren asked.

"Quite sure," Janey said mortified to find her voice was husky as she spoke.

"You sure about that? Oh well, all the more for me." Ren said with a smile when she didn't answer.

Janey was glad that Ren didn't seem to notice that the way he had eaten the biscuit had affected her but nearly groaned aloud when the rustling of the packet told her he was reaching for another biscuit. Unable to help herself she turned her head and watched as he dunked the biscuit in his hot coffee then put the melted chocolate biscuit in his mouth; she almost groaned aloud as he sucked the melted chocolate from his fingers seemingly unaware of her watching him.

"Sure you don't want one? They're nearly as good as sex," Ren said with a wicked grin.

Janey met his eyes with a startled look and he gave a wry grin.

"I guess I shouldn't say things like that to you," Ren said sounding not the least bit sorry.

Janey refused to admit to the blush she felt rise in her face as she looked away. Hurriedly she took a mouthful of her coffee only to hastily spit it back into the cup as the hot liquid burnt her mouth.

"Oh sorry, I thought you'd realise it was hot," Ren said.

Janey glanced his way wondering if he had meant there to be innuendo in what he had said. She looked away quickly, not sure what to think. This time she was careful as she took a sip of coffee. Deciding it wiser not to say anything she carefully kept her gaze averted while she drank her coffee.

"So how long have you been engaged?" Ren asked casually.

Janey turned cautious eyes his way but there was nothing in his demeanour to suggest any trick or annoyance.

"Adam asked me to marry him about two weeks before Nicky's Christening," Janey said looking down at her empty cup.

"Want another cup of coffee?" Ren asked quietly.

"I'm right thanks," Janey said as she glanced up with a slight smile. She couldn't explain it but his attention was making her feel like he was interested in making sure she had everything she needed. As if her comfort was his concern.

"Would you like to play cards?" Ren asked. 

"I suppose so," Janey said knowing there wasn't much to do at the moment.

Ren got to his feet and retrieved a pack of cards from one of the kitchen drawers; he glanced at Janey with a grin as he started to open the new pack of cards.

"Guaranteed not to be marked so there's no chance of you cheating," he said with a wink as he sat down.

Janey blinked in astonishment then realised with a start he was joking with her.

"How do I know that that deck is not a specially pre-marked deck you bought?" Janey asked with a twinkle in her eye.

Ren gave an exaggerated leer, "Ya don't my dear," he said with a bad impersonation of one of many gangsters off the movies.

Janey giggled un-self-consciously. It had been ages since she could remember enjoying herself this way.

Ren winked at Janey and gave her an exaggerated leer as he shuffled the deck of cards before dealing the cards with flashy movements.

"Did you say you were putting the family farm and the entire horse herd on this next hand?" Ren said in a bad American accent.

"Just the front wheel of your bike," Janey said with a giggle.

"My bike? Not the bike!" Ren pretended to howl in distress.

Janey laughed until tears formed in her eyes and rolled down her cheeks; finally she was able to stop laughing and play the game of cards.

Janey didn't notice when Brad and 'Tanaya came into the kitchen until they both pulled out chairs and sat down at the table.

"How about we make this a four handed game?" Brad asked with a friendly smile.

"You gotta watch her. She'll pull your bike apart and use it as a bet!" Ren said with rounded eyes.

Janey ducked her head and smothered her giggles as she heard the rich laughter of the two men.

"So sounds like we're playing for keeps," Brad said as he reached for the deck of cards.

"Us girls against you men. I reckon we can beat you fair and square." 'Tanaya said with a wide smile.

Janey's smile disappeared instantly and she pressed her lips together tightly to prevent herself denying being on the same team as 'Tanaya.

"Can I ask what you have against 'Tanaya?" Ren asked seriously.

Janey glanced across the table at him and then flicked a quick glance at Brad before looking back at Ren and dropping her gaze to her hands where they sat on the table in front of her.

"How about we play cards before I say something that will get me kicked out of this house again?" Janey asked tightly.

"You should never have been allowed to see that damned file!" Brad snapped angrily and slammed his fist down on the table for emphasis.

Janey gasped and flinched but forced herself to raise her head and look Brad in the eyes. She was visibly trembling but remained in her seat even though Brad was obviously very angry.

"Have you read the file?" Janey demanded tightly.

"I didn't have to read it! 'Tanaya told me exactly what was in it then made me look at it, " Brad said curtly. "Why don't you ask her what happened instead of going on the police file?"

Janey glanced towards 'Tanaya with unconcealed distaste and Brad slammed his fist on the table once more.

"Brad!" Ren snapped as he grabbed his friend's forearm with one hand.

"Stop it Brad!" 'Tanaya pleaded as she got to her feet and moved to stand by his chair. "Janey is just trying to do what she believes is the best and safest thing for your son."

Janey glanced at 'Tanaya angrily, she didn't need her sticking up for her!

"I won't lie and say I never did drugs. I took some three or four times but they never did much for me. The drugs I had on me when the police stopped me weren't even mine. As for the prostitution charges, yeah I did that but I was a kid and the guy I was with wasn't the best to say the least. That's all in my past, my distant past." 'Tanaya said abruptly before running her hands over Brad's shoulders in an attempt to soothe him.

Janey got to her feet hurriedly; she had to get out of the room. All the anger and turmoil was setting her nerves on edge badly.

"Just because you don't like me don't punish Brad and Nicky!" 'Tanaya said as she went to place a hand on Janey's shoulder.

Janey spun around to face 'Tanaya swiftly. She stumbled several steps sideways as she tried to avoid contact with her.

'Tanaya saw the fear in Janey's eyes and the way she was trembling so much it was shaking her body. 'Tanaya took several steps backwards and watched as Janey turned and fled the room. She heard an angry noise come from Brad who had gotten to his feet and was beside her but she caught his arm when he would have followed Janey from the room.

"She needs a bit of time to herself," 'Tanaya said softly.

"There was no reason for her to be rude to you!" Brad snapped angrily.

"You scared the shit out of her thumping the table like you did," Ren said from where he still sat at the table.

Brad groaned as he realised the truth of what Ren had said and rubbed his face with both hands.

"I'd better go make sure Nicky didn't wake up," Brad said with regret and left the room.

'Tanaya looked at Ren where he sat at the table racking the cards into a pile in front of him.

"Looks like the game of cards is over. It sounded like you two were having a good time earlier," 'Tanaya said apologetically.

"Yeah we were. Oh well. Maybe Blondie will start to come around and not be so unfriendly towards you now," Ren said evenly.

"I'm sorry things got messed up between you two just now." 'Tanaya said faintly.

"I'll survive mate," Ren said as he got to his feet.

Out on the front veranda Janey was pacing back and forth nervously. She had her arms crossed over her chest and was rubbing her upper arms uneasily. When she heard the heavy tread of footsteps approaching the front door from inside she turned to face the doorway uneasily.

Brad walked through the door and glanced both ways before seeing Janey. He didn't miss the way she eyed him scared or the way she glanced towards the steps down to the footpath as if gauging the distance.

"I'm sorry I yelled at you and punched the table," Brad said quietly.

"You scared me!" Janey accused edgily.

"Yeah I realise that now. I never meant to. It's just that I got so mad because you haven't given 'Tanaya a fair chance," Brad said as he turned and leant back against the wall a little way from Janey.

Janey stopped staring at him and resumed moving nervously but she kept well out of his reach.

"I hope when you feel able you'll come back inside and we can have a nice calm chat," Brad said gently feeling remorse for upsetting her.

"Hey!"

Both Janey and Brad glanced across the road at the yell and saw Matty and Brent getting out of a taxi; Brad waved back to them knowing they would make their way over to the house after they put their parcels in their flat.

"What's with them two?" Janey asked quietly.

"Do you mean are they like Hawk and Jake? No they're straight - they just share expenses on the small flat since neither of them have girlfriends at the moment," Brad said quietly.

"Hmmm, that's cool," Janey said with a nod.

"Ready to go back inside now?" Brad asked when he noticed Janey had stopped moving restlessly.

"I might stay out here a while longer," Janey said and looked out at the western horizon where clouds hung low in the sky.

"Okay, just come in when you're ready," Brad conceded before heading back inside.

Janey was still outside when Brent and Matty started across the road; deciding to head inside before they reached her and started asking questions, Janey turned and headed back inside.

Brad and Ren were in the lounge room shifting the lounge when Janey walked in. She glanced at them and looked away when they glanced her way.

"Matty and Brent are on their way over," Janey said quietly.

"Well we can put them to work as well," Brad said as he and Ren tipped the lounge over so they could get at the legs beneath it. 

Janey watched as the two men put patches on the bottom of the legs that would protect the floor from being scratched before they righted the lounge and put it back in its place.

"Where's Nicky?" Matty asked as he walked into the lounge room with a wide grin.

"Good 'aye Janey," Brent said in greeting.

"Oh yeah, Hi Janey," Matty said and glanced around looking for Nicky.

"Nicky is asleep in on 'Tanaya's bed," Brad said.

Matty gave a sigh of disappointment but didn't go near the bedroom; both 'Tanaya and Brad had made it clear that although he and Brent were welcome anywhere else in the house the bedroom they shared was out of bounds.




Halo Ch. 02



"Glad to see you're not being a stranger anymore," Brent said in reference to Janey's absence over the last few weekends.

Janey looked away from him not sure what to say; she noticed Brad watching her with a closed expression on his face and she looked down to avoid his gaze.

"Yeah, it's good to see you again. You can help me when this lot all gang up on me and make me do the dishes just because I'm the youngest!" Matty said in mock horror sensing her unease.

"What makes you think I'd help with the dishes?" Janey joked as she sent a relieved smile his way and gave a nervous laugh. 

"Oh please!" Matty said clasping his hands together as if in prayer.

Janey laughed as she shook her head at him and then looked away.

Matty caught the way Ren was watching him and glanced at Janey then back at Ren.

'Is Ren jealous because I made Janey laugh?' Matty wondered but when he looked at Ren once more the older man looked away first.

Janey turned her head towards the hallway listening intently before glancing at Brad. "Nicky's waking up," she told him.

"I'll go get him," Brad said as he headed for the bedroom.

"How's it going 'Tanaya?" Brent asked as 'Tanaya came into the lounge room from the kitchen.

"Good thanks. I got the cakes I promised you pair on cooking." 'Tanaya said with a smile at Matty and Brent.

"I hope you made mine vanilla," Matty said with his usual friendly grin.

"Now you tell me!" 'Tanaya pretended to roll her eyes dramatically. 

Catching sight of Brad returning to the room with Nicky, who was clearly not long awake, 'Tanaya sent Janey an uneasy glance before walking over to Brad to stroke Nicky's arm.

"Hallo Nicky, did you wake up?" 'Tanaya asked softly.

Nicky ignored her as he cuddled into his father's chest and yawned sleepily.

"How about a dry nappy Nicky?" Janey asked quietly as she reached for the nappy bag.

"Daddaddaddad," Nicky chanted and Janey had to smile.

"Looks like you're on nappy duty Daddy," Janey said to Brad.

Brad grimaced but moved to where he could lay Nicky on the lounge and change his nappy.

"We're in for some storms later," Brent said as he headed for the kitchen with Ren and Matty following him.

"Keep away from that oven!" 'Tanaya called after them.

* * * * *

Janey twirled her engagement ring on her finger restlessly, she glanced at her mother where she was peeling potatoes at the kitchen sink and sighed softly.

Nicky sat on the floor nearby playing with 'his' collection of old pots and pan lids.

"Mum, how did you know that Dad was the one for you?" Janey asked quietly.

"So that's what's been on your mind," Marina said as she paused to look at her daughter.

Janey met her mother's look for several seconds before looking away.

"There was never any doubt for me that your father was the man I wanted to marry. He has always made me feel special, as if I was the only woman in the world for him. He was seeing someone else when we first met but that ended rather quickly and he started courting me." Marina said with a smile, she glanced at Janey who was frowning as she worried the ring on her finger.

"You having doubts about Adam being the right one for you?" Marina asked gently.

"When we're together it's really good. Adam is so considerate of me and always makes sure I know he'll protect me no matter what, he makes me feels so safe and secure when he's around. Plus he's so good with Nicky and treats him as if he were his son. But sometimes when we're apart ... I ... it's hard to explain but sometimes I feel stronger without him." Janey said, her voice almost trailing away in her uncertainty as she shrugged unhappily.

"Maybe you're just not as ready to settle down as Adam is, especially if you're having doubts," Marina said quietly.

"Oh I'm ready as I'll ever be!" Janey rushed to say, "I've got a child, I need a steady relationship."

Marina reframed from telling Janey that just because she had a child she needed a man to stand by her.

"How did today go? Was Nicky's father happy to see him?" Marina asked to divert Janey's attention.

"Brad? Yes he was very happy to see Nicky. And we're going back tomorrow and on Wednesday afternoon. It's Brad's birthday and Ren invited us over for tea with them, so Nicky can be there on his father's birthday," Janey said with a wide smile.

Marina couldn't help but notice the animation that had come to her daughter's face as she spoke about being invited for the birthday celebration. Was it the invitation or the one who had asked her that had put the sparkle in her eyes?

"Have you decided on a present for Nicky's father?" Marina asked.

Janey smiled to herself as she remembered the suggestions that had been bandied about by Ren, Matty and Brent. Most had revolved around the fact that Ren was often disturbed of a night by noises from the bedroom Brad shared with 'Tanaya.

"I'm sure I can find something on Monday or Tuesday," Janey said as she glanced at Nicky who had stopped banging the saucepans and lids together.

"J'ink?" Nicky asked hopefully.

"You want a drink do you?" Janey asked as she picked up her son.

"J'ink!" Nicky confirmed.

"Dddddrink," Janey corrected gently as she retrieved Nicky's sippy cup from the fridge and added watered down juice.

Nicky took the cup eagerly and raised it to his mouth; he drank thirstily only stopping for a breath when he could drink no more.

"Ahhh!" Nicky let out a sigh of satisfaction as he took a deep breath.

"Oh wow! You did sound thirsty," Marina said with a laugh.

"Uncle Matty taught him that today," Janey said with a fond smile.

"You actually like Nicky's father's friends?" Marina asked curiously.

"Brad, Nicky's father is called Brad," Janey said and paused for a few seconds before smiling, "and yes, I do like his friends. They're actually pretty okay."



Halo Ch. 03



Ren stood on the front veranda looking out at the heavy storm clouds that had massed in the west. He turned his head as he heard footsteps beside him and he saw Brad stop and look out at the sky as well.

"I'm glad we insisted Janey take Nicky home when we saw the storm clouds building up. It's blowing a gale out there now," Ren said indicating the trees that were tossing wildly in the strong wind.

"Yes, I'm glad they're both back home safe and sound," Brad agreed.

"So you get to see your son on your birthday," Ren said with a grin.

"I'm really looking forward to it - a real first for me." Brad said happily, he paused for a moment before asking "So what's going on between you and Janey? I thought you were just about to kiss her when you put her seatbelt on for her when she was leaving."

Ren smiled as he remembered how Janey had watched his mouth as he had lent over her to fasten her seatbelt when she had struggled with it. He had watched her eyes darken and her lips part softly before he had pressed a quick kiss to her forehead and then straightened out of the car. He could still hear her soft gasp of shock from when he had shut the driver's side door for her.

"She thought I was about to kiss her as well," Ren said sounding pleased with himself.

"Well tell all," Brad encouraged him.

"Janey asked me to back off, that she's with the boyfriend. I told her I wouldn't do anything she didn't want," Ren said with a tight expression.

"So you have to wait for her to want you to do something?" Brad asked.

"Something like that," Ren said sounding more than slightly strained.

" 'Tanaya has got supper nearly cooked. You'd better come inside if you're hungry," Brad said before turning and heading inside.

Ren hesitated for several more moments looking out towards the heavy storm clouds before heading inside to wash up for the meal.

"Does it still look like we might get a storm?" 'Tanaya asked as Ren sat down at the table.

"I'd say definitely, and I'd guess a nasty one at that by the colour of the clouds," Ren said as he reached for the plate of food 'Tanaya was holding out towards him. "Thanks for that, it looks good."

"I do like to be able to cook once in a while in my own kitchen," 'Tanaya said in reference to the fact that Ren had taken to doing a lot of the cooking when 'Tanaya had to work.

"Just doing what I can to help out," Ren said before tasting the mashed potato covered in gravy.

There was silence around the table while the three of them took the edge off their hunger; the only noises the clinking of cutlery on plates and the occasional rattle of cups in saucers as they took a drink.

By the time they had finished their meal, thunder could be heard rumbling in the not far distance and the bright flashes of lightening illuminated the late evening gloom. The sound of the wind told them it had picked up strength and speed.

Brad got out of his chair and turned the radio on to the local station; as they sat enjoying leisurely cups of coffee they listened to the latest popular songs playing. As the clock pointed to the hour the radio station started the news with a severe storm warning for several areas.

"Sounds like I'd better do a quick check that everything is secure outside," Brad said getting to his feet.

"I'll give you a hand," Ren said putting his nearly empty cup aside as he too got to his feet.

"Check to see if Mr Brinkley needs a hand next door. He might appreciate the help," 'Tanaya said as she began stacking dirty dishes in the sink.

"Will do, " Ren said and paused to look back at 'Tanaya. "Just stack the dishes in the sink, I'll do 'em later."

'Tanaya watched as both men disappeared out the back way before hurriedly finishing what she was doing. With the table cleared she made her way around the house checking that all the windows were shut and secured properly.

Pausing on the western side of the house 'Tanaya peered out a window at the storm clouds and flinched as several vicious streaks of lightening flashed from the clouds to the ground some distance from town. She was relieved when she heard the two men return to the house and when to the lounge room to meet them as they came in from the backyard.

"Gerald said it'll be a bad storm for sure. We put some heavy timbers on a pile of iron for him so he didn't have to strain himself." Brad said as he shook dust and leaves from his hair and shoulders.

They stood and watched through a window in one of the front rooms as the storm raced towards them. Vivid streaks of lightening danced between clouds before cascading to the ground in breathtaking displays of power.

Rain soon appeared as a grey haze that quickly approached the town swept before the strong winds that snapped small branches from trees and shrubs in its path. The rain sounded loud on the roof overhead and drummed incessantly against the western side of the house.

"Shit - hail!" Brad exclaimed as he saw the first of the marble sized white balls hit the window and bounce off.

Ren moved to where he could look out over the rear yard and winced as the hailstones became the size of tennis balls. 

The combined sound of the rain and hail was nearly deafening as it pelted down mercilessly. Lightening illuminated the rooms with windows as the full fury of the storm passed overhead; thunder rumbled and the vibrations of the sound could be felt throughout the house.

Within twenty minutes the storm had passed the town leaving only heavy rain bucketing down.

Brad started with surprise as his mobile phone gave its shrill call and he picked it up off the kitchen cupboard where he had placed it. He answered it curtly and listened with a frown as his boss spoke quickly. He answered affirmatively before hanging up and looking at 'Tanaya.

"That was Hank. He's a member of the State Emergency Service. The SES is getting a lot of calls and expects more. Houses have lost their roofs, trees down across roads. I'll check everything is okay outside and then I'm going to lend a hand to the SES volunteers," Brad told her seriously.

"I'll lend a hand as well," Ren said as he headed towards his room for a waterproof jacket.

'Tanaya stood on the front veranda looking out into the hail covered street as both men walked around the exterior of the house checking for damage before heading over next door to check for damage then knock on the Brinkley's door.

'Tanaya's attention was diverted when Brent and Matty hurried across the street looking wet and ragged. They hurried up onto the veranda out of the rain.

"The flats have lost the roof all along the building," Brent said without preamble. "Wall has poured in through the ceiling, everything's wet."

"Go get your good clothes and a couple of changes of work clothes, I'll put them through a wash and dry some in the dryer and hang some on the back veranda. Has Hank called you?" 'Tanaya asked.

"Yes, he's bringing tarps for the flats and then we go on to other buildings," Matty supplied.

"How'd you guys go over there?" Brad asked as he climbed the front steps to the veranda with Ren close behind him.

* * * * *

Janey put the phone receiver back on the phone and frowned as she headed for the kitchen picking her son up out of the doorway as she went.

The morning had dawned cold and damp with misty rain in the aftermath of the storms; there had been two separate storms that had left unroofed houses in their wake before uniting to leave a trail of roofless houses and uprooted trees.

Only her mother and sister were in the kitchen as Janey let Nicky down to play with his pots and pans.

"Any luck getting through?" Marina asked.

"I got through on the landline eventually but he's is out helping with the SES clearing the fallen trees off roads and his friends are doing tarpaulin duty on houses," Janey said as she tried to control the irritation she felt.

She had been looking forward to spending the day with Brad even if it meant having to put up with 'Tanaya being around. Janey smothered the thought that she also wouldn't be seeing Ren. 

Silly really, she told herself. He might have had other plans for the day that didn't include staying around the house.

"An extra pair of hands making lunch for volunteers from our area is always appreciated," Marina said with a gentle smile.

Janey looked out the kitchen window at the drizzling rain and shuddered as she thought about the people working in this weather to put to rights the storm damage.

"Make a big pot of thick stew?" Janey asked as she looked at the vegetables her mother and sister had collected and were peeling and dicing.

"You can start the meat cooking for the stew. We're making thick vegetable soup as well," Marina said as she paused work to glance at her younger daughter.

Janey nodded and quickly got the largest stew pot out of the cupboard and placed it on the stove before adding water and stock powder. As she worked she kept an eye on Nicky but he was content to play with his assortment of pots and pans.

It was mid morning when the three women sat down for a quick cup of coffee and Janey paused to give Nicky a plate of cut up fruit. The phone rang and Marina answered it. She returned to the kitchen shortly carrying the cordless handset and passed it to Janey.

"It's Adam," Marina said as Janey took the handset.

"Hi Adam, " Janey said happily as she got to her feet and walked from the room for some privacy knowing that her mother would keep an eye on Nicky while he ate his fruit.

"Hallo Beautiful. How are you today?" Adam asked fondly.

"Better now I've heard your voice," Janey said as she smiled with pleasure.

"Glad I brightened your day for you," Adam said sounding pleased. "Can I ask what you're doing Tuesday?"

"I haven't got anything planned," Janey said with a glance back towards the kitchen.

"I have to travel to Sydney Tuesday evening and I was hoping that if I rented a motel room in Lismore tomorrow night we could spend the night and Tuesday morning together. You, me and Nicky," Adam said sounding hopeful.

"I would love that," Janey said. It was hard to find any privacy for her and Adam when he came and visited at her parents' place.

"I could drive to your parents' place tomorrow afternoon, then we could take your car to Lismore so you can drive home the next afternoon after I go to the airport," Adam explained calmly.

"That sounds really good." Janey agreed.

They talked for several more minutes before they hung up and Janey returned to the kitchen. Her mother and sister were nearly finished their coffee when Janey sat down once again.

"How is Adam?" Marina asked as Janey sat down.

"He's good. We're going to spend tomorrow night and Tuesday morning with him," Janey said before finishing her coffee.

"I don't know why you take Nicky to see ... that guy in Lennox when you have Adam ready and willing to play happy families," Caro said as she got to her feet and put her empty cup in the sink.

"Because he is his biological father and they have a right to know each other," Janey said tightly.

Caro shrugged as she checked on the soup cooking on the stove, "Whatever."

When the soup and stew were cooked Marina called Jim on the phone to find out where the team was working so she could deliver the food to them for lunch.

While her mother was on the phone Janey changed Nicky's nappy and packed his lunch ready to take with them so that she could go with her mother to deliver the food to the volunteer workers; Nicky would enjoy the ride and it would get her out of the house. 

* * * * *

Janey settled Nicky down for his morning nap and walked from the room knowing he would fall asleep quickly. With a quick glance at the clock she decided to try ringing Brad to check and see if his birthday party was still on Wednesday afternoon.

When there was no answer on his mobile phone she tried the house number and was just about to give up when the phone was answered.

"Hallo." The deep rich voice sent tendrils of pleasure through Janey's body as she instantly recognised Ren's voice even though it sounded as if he had just been woken up.

"Hi Ren, this is Janey. I was ummm ringing to see if Brad's party is still on Wednesday evening," Janey said softly.

"Hey there Blondie, good to hear your voice. Yes the party will be on. Did the storm hit where you are?" Ren asked, his voice quickening with interest.

"We only got heavy rain and some wind but a mile down the road there's some big trees blown over alongside the road," Janey said unconsciously smiling with the pleasure of hearing his voice.

"There are a few branches down around the house here and the block of flats where Brent and Matty rent lost their roof so they're bunking on the lounge room floor at the moment." Ren told her.

Janey heard faint sounds as if he was sitting on something that creaked.

"I didn't disturb you or anything did I?" Janey asked hesitantly.

"I was asleep when you rang but it's about time I woke up. I was out until nearly five am putting tarps over the last of the damaged roofs. Brad is out working with a chainsaw at present. Matty and Brent are sprawled around the lounge room," Ren explained.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you." Janey rushed to say as she was filled with remorse for waking him up.

"Hey, no problem. Feel free to disturb me any time you like Blondie," Ren said with a slightly husky tone to his voice.

Janey blushed as a warm feeling flooded her body at his words. 

Surely he didn't mean it the way my body is taking it! Janey thought as her breasts suddenly felt full and heavy, her nipples tingling and puckering into hard buds.

"So you still bringing Nicky to his Dad's birthday party?" Ren asked in the silence that followed.

"Yes, he, umm... he hasn't stopped going Daddad," Janey admitted with a soft laugh.

"Brad was really wrapped to see him as well," Ren said softly.

Janey sighed faintly and closed her eyes briefly as his voice washed over her.

"I guess I should let you go. You probably got stuff you need to do," Janey said almost reluctantly.

"Yeah I got stuff I should do. I'll see you Wednesday then," Ren said.

"I'll be there. Bye." Janey said and hung up before she found a reason to keep talking to him.

She turned back towards her room feeling strangely lost and looked in at Nicky where he lay asleep in his cot. She watched him sleeping for several minutes before turning away with a shrug. She had a few things she wanted to do before Adam turned up later in the day so she headed for the lounge room with a determined step.

With Nicky asleep Janey was able to iron the clothes she planned to wear that evening when Adam took her and Nicky out for tea as he had promised. She had chosen a very becoming top and trousers set a few days after the christening and had decided to wear them tonight.

A few hours later Janey was busy with Nicky who had woken up fretful from his nap when Adam arrived. He parked his car out of the way and knocked before walking into the house.

Janey recognised his voice and walked out of her room carrying Nicky who was cuddled miserably against her shoulder.

"Hallo," Adam said as he walked over to kiss Janey softly before lifting Nicky out of her arms and holding him.

"Dadam," Nicky murmured and went back to chewing at his fist.

"I think Nicky is teething," Janey said with a rueful grin.

"So that's what's wrong with our boy," Adam said fondly as he bounced Nicky gently in his arms. Nicky grinned his appreciation at Adam around his fist and glanced at his mother.

"I got everything ready to go whenever you're ready," Janey told Adam with a smile. The chance of an outing with the three of them had her excited.

"If you take Nicky and give me the keys to your car I'll put my bags in the car, put your bags in the car and we can be off." Adam told her with a smile.

"That sounds simple," Janey agreed with a nod and pulled her car keys from her jeans pocket before taking Nicky from Adam.

"We'll just go say bye to Grandma and Grandpa," Janey said as Adam turned towards the door.

"Okay," He acknowledged before leaving.

Janey headed towards her Parents room. She knew they would want to say goodbye to Nicky before they left. She knocked on their door and waited for an answer before opening it and walking in.

"We came to say byes, Nicky and Mummy are going with Dadam," Janey said using Nicky's name for Adam.

"Will you be very late tonight?" Jim asked as he gave his grandson a cuddle.

"We won't be home until tomorrow evening," Janey said calmly.

"Well have fun," Marina said and gave both Janey and Nicky a kiss on the cheek.

"We will," Janey said with a smile. She missed the frown on her father's face as she turned and headed for the lounge room.

Adam was picking up the last of the bags she had placed in the lounge room and she fell into step with him as he headed outside. Janey buckled Nicky into his child-seat as Adam put the last of the bags in the boot and then she got into the passenger seat. 

"Don't you want to drive?" Adam asked as he stood outside the car door and looked in at her.

"You drive. I always feel much better when you drive." Janey said softly.

Adam didn't say anything as he walked around the car and got into the drivers seat.

The drive was uneventful and it was still mid-afternoon when Adam parked the car outside the caravan-park cabin where they would be staying.

Janey waited in the car slightly uneasy as Adam went to the office and paid for the cabin he had booked. When he returned he opened the front door with the key he had been given and stepped inside for a look.

Janey got out of the car and took Nicky out of his child-seat before walking into the cabin behind Adam; she looked around the surprisingly spacious room that contained a double bed, a single bed and a cot as well as a small kitchen alcove.

The shower and toilet was at the far end of the cabin separated by a sliding door.

"Cosy isn't it?" Adam remarked with a smile as he looked at Janey.

Janey looked around. The place was spotless and smelled slightly of disinfectant.

"It's not bad," Janey agreed with the slightest of reluctance.

Adam turned his head to look at her with a frown. He had picked up on something bothering her.

"What's the matter Sweetheart?" he asked gently.

"I don't know, it's just not...home," Janey said with a forced smile.

"I'll be right here with you. I won't let anything bad happen to you," Adam said in soothing tones.

Janey sent a pained smile his way before carrying Nicky to the double bed and placing him on it; she checked his nappy finding it wet and quickly removed the soiled garment while Adam hurried to get the nappy bag for her.

With Nicky changed into a dry nappy and the bags inside the cabin Adam, Janey and Nicky got back into the car and set out for a drive around town.

Adam found a park with play sets for small children and parked close by. The three of them spent the last of the afternoon there with Nicky playing happily on the swings. 

Adam couldn't help noticing that Janey seemed slightly nervous at first and he continually tried to reassure her that he was there and would take care of her; but it didn't seem to help and as the time passed she only got more nervous.

As the sun sank lower in the sky and the air began to loose its warmth Adam packed Janey and Nicky into the car and headed back to the cabin. Once inside he noticed Janey seemed to calm down as she set about giving Nicky his wash for the night.

Adam ordered Chinese take-away from a restaurant with a good reputation and helped Janey when she carried a wet and clean Nicky from the small shower room.

"I ordered a meal for us and some long noodle soup for Nicky," Adam said with a smile at the boy.

"He's nearly ready to go to sleep, playing on the swings really tired him out," Janey said as she put warm pyjamas on her son.




Halo Ch. 03



When the knock of the delivery person came at the door Adam answered it and paid for the food while Janey sat by the tiny table with Nicky on her lap. Adam put the food on the table and the three of them began eating with healthy appetites.

Finally the three of them were full and Nicky was sitting on Janey's lap and cuddling against her as he yawned tiredly.

"Looks like our little man is ready for bed," Adam said softly, got to his feet and lifted Nicky into his arms. He checked that the nappy was still dry and carried the boy over to the cot while Janey prepared his last bottle for the night.

Adam stood beside Janey and watched as Nicky drank his drink then rolled onto his stomach. He drew his knees up underneath him and went to sleep with his bottom in the air.

Janey glanced at Adam and smiled softly before covering her son with a blanket. Then she walked over to the bed and sat down on one side, swung her legs up onto the bed and leant back against the bed head.

"Do you want a shower?" Adam asked as he moved to his bags.

"I had a shower at home. I thought it might be easiest with Nicky," Janey said with a faint smile.

"I'll just have a quick shower then," Adam said as he got a towel and his pyjama pants.

Janey watched as he headed for the shower cubicle. She got to her feet and retrieved her toiletry bag and nightie from her overnight bag. She waited until Adam returned after his shower before she headed for the tiny bathroom to brush her teeth and change into her nightie. She hesitated a moment then checked that Adam was not near the door before retrieving her diaphram case from her toiletry bag; quickly she dealt with inserting it before she hid the case in her toiletry bag once more.

"You look very nice," Adam said when Janey came out of the shower cubical and paused at the end of the bed.

Janey smiled and blushed slightly as she glanced towards her feet self-consciously. Slowly she walked around to one side of the bed and glanced across at Adam where he sat against the headboard on the other side of the bed.

Adam smiled encouragingly at Janey and pulled the bed covers back so she could get into bed. Even after over twelve months together she was an enchanting mixture of experience and naiveté.

Janey sat on the edge of the bed and hesitated for a moment before lifting her legs and swinging them up onto the bed and slipping her feet beneath the covers.

"It's nice and quiet here isn't it," Adam said softly as he covered her legs with the blankets. 

"It's okay," Janey admitted as she glanced at him before slowly reaching out and placing a hand over his hand.

Adam leant close and kissed her lightly on the lips. He felt her open her mouth slightly and respond as he changed the angle of contact slightly.

"Do you want the light on or off?" Adam asked softly.

"Leave the toilet light on just in case Nicky wakes up. That way there's some light to see to him," Janey said quietly as she lay down and looked up at him.

Adam stretched out beside her and brushed the back of his fingers over her cheek lightly before leaning close to kiss her lightly on the lips. He felt Janey sigh beneath his kiss and lifted his head to gaze down at her for a few moments.

"It's nice to be in a bed and not have to worry about anything," Janey said softly            

"It is isn't it," Adam agreed as he moved closer so that he could feel her body against his from chest to hip.

Janey closed her eyes as Adam lowered his head; his lips were dry and firm against hers as he kissed her. His tongue traced the seam of her lips then delved between them as she opened her mouth as the kiss deepened.

She felt one hand slide up over her ribs, cup her breast and roll her nipple between the fingers. Adams mouth left hers and his lips trailed across her cheek before he sucked and licked his way down the side of her neck to the soft skin where her shoulder joined her neck.

She felt the warm moistness of his mouth as his lips closed over the peak of her breast and she groaned softly as he suckled at her breast through the material.

Adam ran his hand down from Janey's breast, over her ribs and to her hip and pulled at the material to get to the skin beneath. He groaned against her breast as he realised she had no underwear on beneath the nightie as his fingers were drawn across her feminine mound to the moist folds within.

Janey moaned softly as Adam slid a finger into her passage, withdrew it and circled her clit with his finger before entering her once again with his fingers.

Adam raised his head to watch Janey's face as he pumped his hand between her thighs; in and out, in and out making her moan with pleasure and wriggle beneath his ministrations.

Janey bit her bottom lip as she tried to steady her breathing. Adam's hand was creating pleasure between her thighs and she could feel her own moisture growing as his hand continued to move.

"Does that feel good?" Adam asked huskily as he leant close then nuzzled against the side of her neck.

"Hhhmmmmm, " Janey murmured as her hips moved against his hand. She could feel him sucking at the side of her neck and wondered if she would have a mark there in the morning.

Adam felt her inner muscles grasping at his fingers as he moved his hand; he could tell by the soft sounds she was beginning to make that she was now fully aroused.

Adam hesitated for a moment then he remembered that they weren't using protection any more for a special reason. He withdrew his hand and Janey groaned in frustration.

Adam smiled as he moved over Janey and she reached eagerly for him. Her hands skimmed over his chest and across his shoulders as he settled his hips in the cradle of her thighs. He rocked his hips against her feeling his hard shaft moving between her slick folds.

"Ready?" Adam asked gruffly.

"Now," Janey demanded softly as she attempted to reach between them.

Adam laughed and brushed her hand aside as he reached between them; he took hold of his cock and guided it to her slick passage but only skimmed it back and forth across her opening until she whimpered and writhed beneath him.

He held his breath as he guided the head of his cock to her opening and slid slowly into her warm depths. Janey gasped and clutched at his shoulder then began moving with him as he began to move slowly.

Janey turned her face towards Adam's and he kissed her deeply for a few moments as they moved in a slow rhythm. He broke off the kiss and turned his head away as he began to move faster.

Janey settled her arms around his ribs just beneath his arms and clung to him as they moved in a smooth rhythm; she pressed a light kiss to his upper chest before turning her head and letting her cheek rest against his chest. She fixed her gaze on the upper corner of the cabin; distractedly she traced the pattern of the boards with her eyes as she hooked her heels behind his thighs.

She could feel the beginnings of the tightening that usually began low in her stomach as her pleasure built. The muscles in her stomach tightened and her breath came faster as she clutched at Adam tighter.

"Adam!" Janey whimpered as something tightened to an almost painful tightness deep inside her, she turned her head and focused on the pattern in the corner of the ceiling once more.

Pleasure washed over her in waves and Janey gasped as she bucked wildly beneath Adam and arched her back as she drew her knees up further. She was aware of Adam shuddering against her and she felt the warm flow of his release inside her as she gradually came back to earth.

When Adam got his breath back and his heart had settled into a normal pace he lifted himself off Janey, almost sighing with regret as he slid from her warm passage. He watched as her eyes fluttered open and she smiled at him with a sated look in her eyes; she rolled towards him and snuggled against his side as he settled in a comfortable position.



Halo Ch. 04



Janey watched as Adam got Nicky out of his child seat and lifted him to his shoulders; Nicky squealed with excitement and Janey had to laugh along with her son.

"Come on, let's go line up for a train ride." Adam said as he fell into step beside Janey.

Janey glanced around uneasily; she had never been here before and wanted to be sure of exactly where the car was parked before she moved too far.

Her parents or siblings understood that she had trouble in public and they supported her efforts to get out and about. They took the time to go places with her and had seemingly endless patience when she needed to get her bearings or scrape up the courage to face crowds.

They knew she was capable of watching for trouble by herself and let her take her time to ensure her own safety. They also understood that now she not only herself to worry about but Nicky as well.

Adam noticed Janey glance around nervously. He moved closer to reach out and squeeze her hand gently. He looked around to see if there was anything that might upset her.

"I'm right here with you, you'll be okay." Adam said softly.

'What has Adam seen?' Janey wondered nervously, 'someone or something he doesn't like?'

When they reached the place where other families were lining up for tickets to ride on the miniature train Adam eased Nicky off his shoulders and held the boy in his arms as Nicky wriggled and pointed at the train excitedly.

"Twain! Twain!" Nicky exclaimed and turned wide eyes on his mother.

"We going on the train are we Nicky?" Janey asked nervously as she glanced around at the strangers nearby.

Adam didn't miss how Janey looked around nervously and glanced around himself to make sure all was clear.

"I'm right here Darlin'," Adam said softly and Janey shot him a nervous smile.

Had he seen something she had missed?

The press of the people seemed to intensify and then Adam was buying tickets and they were climbing onto the train. Janey sat in a corner and looked around apprehensively; she caught Adam looking around as well and her tension increased.

The morning passed in a blur of nervous activities for Janey. She was aware of Nicky having fun and Adam by her side but soon her head ached with the strain of being ever vigilant.

At lunchtime Adam bought the makings for sandwiches and the three of them returned to the cabin. After eating Nicky fell asleep and after placing him in the cot Adam and Janey lay down for a rest. Just laying on the bed in Adam's arms was soothing and Janey fell asleep not long after her son.

"Hey Sweetheart, time to wake up," Adam coaxed softly.

Janey frowned as she forced her eyes open; after three sessions of sex over night she was tired from lack of sleep.

"What?" Janey asked disgruntled.

"We have to get up so we can check out and I can get to the airport in time to book in for my flight," Adam told her softly before leaning close to kiss her lightly on the lips.

Still half asleep Janey sighed softly and kissed him back, opening her mouth to his seeking tongue and moaning softly as he deepened the kiss hungrily.

"Damn catching the plane!" Adam said tightly as he rolled away from her.

Janey lay on her back staring up at the ceiling breathing harshly. Her body had come to life quickly and she felt the strong stirrings of desire.

"We'd better get up," Adam said as he swung his legs over the side of the bed and got to his feet, he paused to look down at Janey for a few moments and was smiling when she glanced his way.

"What?" Janey asked curiously.

"Maybe we'll have some good luck after this little break away," Adam said hopefully.

It took a moment for Janey to realise he was talking about their attempts to fall pregnant with a playmate for Nicky; she looked away as a tide of red rose hotly up her neck and into her cheeks. She heard Adam laugh softly as he headed for the shower and she sat up and looked around the room to see what she had yet to pack so they could leave.

She really needed to have a serious talk with Adam; she knew she should have talked with him about how she felt immediately but it never seemed like the right time. 

Like now, she knew she should tell him she'd recently begun to have her doubts that now was the right time for another child, but with him about to leave for a week or two the timing was wrong.

Half an hour later Janey sat in the car with Nicky while Adam went into the office to hand in the keys for the cabin; she kept a wary eye out for any movement nearby even though the day was peaceful and not many people seemed to be out and about at that time.

When Adam returned to the car he climbed into the driver's seat and started the car; with a quick glance around he pulled away from the office and headed for the road towards the airport.

It was only a short drive and it didn't take long before he was parking the car in the car park of the airport and turning the engine off.

Adam hesitated as he turned in the seat and looked at Janey; she was watching the activity at the airport building out the window. He frowned worriedly; he knew she wanted to show Nicky the plane but he himself didn't feel up to babysitting her through the nerves she would have with the numerous people present.

"I'll just take my bags and head into the airport and you can head for home now," Adam said firmly.

"I want to let Nicky see the plane," Janey protested softly as she stared at the building. 

"I don't want you stressing out when you have to drive home Sweetheart. It's best if we say goodbye here and I let you leave; I have enough on my mind without worrying that you'll get home safely." Adam told her firmly.

Janey turned her face towards him and Adam smiled at her charmingly.

"So are you going to tell me exactly why you have to go to Sydney? Other than it's just some work problem?" Janey asked evenly. She had tried to talk to Adam the previous night about why he had to go to Sydney but all he would say was the visit was to straighten out about a problem at work.

"It's nothing to worry about," Adam said soothingly.

Janey looked away from him; the way he avoided giving her a direct answer made her inclined to believe there was some kind of problem that involved him. 

Was he working on another case like the one she had been involved in when he had met her?

Janey got out of the car and moved around to the driver's side while Adam got his luggage from the boot; he walked up to stand beside her and put the bags down before turning and taking her in his arms.

"I'll miss you while I'm away," Adam said before kissing her.

His lips were firm as they moved over hers and she felt his tongue push against her teeth as he sought. Janey opened her mouth and Adam thrust his tongue into her mouth almost aggressively as he kissed her thoroughly. 

Janey was gasping for breath when he finally raised his head; she opened her eyes dazedly and looked up into his face.

"Love you," Adam said before turning to wave at Nicky through the window; inside the car Nicky waved excitedly and kicked his legs.

"I..." Janey said faintly.

"Yeah?" Adam encouraged when she remained silent for a few moments.

"I love you too," Janey said and looked away hurriedly before glancing at him nervously.

Adam leaned close and kissed her gently on the lips before picking up his bags and heading for the building; he stopped and turned when he reached the doors to look back at Janey. She had the car door open but was watching him as she stood there; he waved then turned and walked into the building.

* * * * *

Janey patted Nicky's back as she paced the room with him; he lay against her shoulder with his face turned in towards her neck. Every now and then he would give a slight whimper as he rubbed at his eyes with his clenched fist.

"How is he?" Marina asked quietly as she peeked into the room.

"Still refusing to go to sleep. His gums are bothering him again," Janey said as she paused in her pacing.

Nicky fidgeted against her shoulder and whimpered fretfully making Janey begin moving once again.

"Want to lay down with him for a while? You look like you could do with some sleep as well," Marina said softly.

Nicky had been fretful and had woken several times through the previous night disturbing Janey; with two nights of little sleep there were dark marks beginning to show under her eyes.

"I might just hold him until I'm ready to head over to Brad's for his Birthday party," Janey said quietly.

"You could let me hold him so you can have a bit of a break, maybe a cup of tea or coffee before you head off," Marina said quietly.

"A cold drink actually sounds good," Janey said with a relieved glance at her mother.

"Well let's take Master grumble out to the kitchen so you can have that drink," Marina said.

Janey followed her mother into the kitchen and thankfully let her take Nicky; Nicky whimpered unhappily for a moment before settling against his Grandmother's shoulder.

"You'll feel much better once that nasty tooth comes through," Marina said gently. Nicky snuggled into his Grandmothers arms and stuck his thumb in his mouth.

Janey got herself a can of coke and drank deeply; she almost groaned as she thought of the evening ahead. Nicky was bound to be unsettled because of teething and with the drive back home she would certainly be exhausted.

"You've packed enough changes for Nicky? Just in case?" Marina asked.

"Yeah, nearly enough for three days. If he starts dribbling again he'll need them." Janey said as she looked at her son.

"You packed the present for his father?" Jim asked as he walked into the kitchen.

"Yes Dad, and his name is Brad." Janey said with a frown.

Jim reframed from making any further remark as his daughter regarded him in annoyance.

"I was thinking that for Nicky's first birthday, I could have a party here and invite Brad and his friends." Janey said turning away from her father.

"I don't know why you insist on letting that criminal have anything to do with Nicky," Jim said tightly.

"Because Dad, Brad happens to be a very decent man and Nicky deserves to know his father," Janey said as she put her now empty soda can in the bin.

Jim frowned as Janey turned to face him; he saw the faint shadows beneath her eyes and wondered whether it was Nicky teething or nightmares that kept his daughter from sleeping.

"Whether or not he is a decent man remains to be seen," Jim said gruffly. He knew Janey would avoid any questions she didn't want to answer if he started asking questions to set his mind to rest over his concerns for her.

"I already know what type of person he is," Janey said before walking over to her mother and stroking Nicky's hair back off his face.

"I'll give you a hand carrying your things to the car," Jim said as he watched Janey, Marina and Nicky.

"We already put everything except for Nicky in the car," Marina said with a smile. She knew that Jim found it hard to accept Janey's choice to involve Nicky's father in his life considering the way he had been conceived.

"I'll carry Nicky out for you then, he's getting to be such a big boy," Jim said as he reached out for his grandson.

"Daddaddaddad," Nicky mumbled unhappily.

"Yes Nicky, we're going to see Daddad," Janey said with a smile.

Janey led the way out to her car, pausing briefly in the lounge room to grab her wallet and car keys. She stood back and watched as her father buckled Nicky into his car seat securely and gave him a quick kiss on the forehead before moving and letting Marina say her goodbye to Nicky.

"We'll see you tonight," Marina said as Janey climbed behind the wheel.

"Okay, probably be somewhere between nine and ten before I get home." Janey said with a strained smile. She was exhausted already and she hadn't even started the drive to the house where Brad lived.

"Okay, we'll see you then," Marina agreed.

Janey started the car and eased out of the driveway; she glanced in the rear-view mirror half way to the main road and was relieved to see that Nicky had fallen asleep.

The drive was uneventful and Janey travelled at a leisurely speed. It seemed almost only moments before she was turning into the street where the house was and she felt a sense of relief as she saw the front fence clearly.

After parking the car she got out and moved to the rear door to get Nicky. She sighed at the sight of him asleep. Hating to wake him she lifted him from his seat as carefully as possible and eased him to her shoulder.

Trying to jostle Nicky as little as possible she headed for the front door and knocked quietly hoping those inside would hear her. She was just about to knock a second time when she heard footsteps approaching the door and the indistinct murmur of a voice; the door opened and Janey found herself facing Ren.

"Hey Blondie! I didn't hear you out here," Ren said with a wide grin.

Nicky woke with a start, looked around and began crying. Janey began patting his back and murmuring to him softly.

"Hallo there Nicky, did I wake you up?" Ren asked in a soft soothing tone as he hunched slightly so his face was on the same level as Nicky's.

Nicky turned his face away from Ren and wriggled in Janey's arms. She found it hard to hold onto the struggling child and then Ren was lifting him from her arms with ease.

"Hallo," Ren said to the startled boy. Nicky looked at Ren then looked towards his mother.

"It's alright Nicky," Janey said reassuringly.

Nicky looked at Ren cautiously, stuck his fingers in his mouth and rested his head against Ren's shoulder with a weary sigh.

"Nicky's teething and he's not feeling too good," Janey said as she followed Ren inside.

"Just sing out if you need a hand while you're here. Any one of us will be happy to help," Ren said as he walked into the lounge room. 

Ren squatted near the box of building blocks and watched Nicky as the child looked at them; he clung to Ren's shoulder clearly not wanting to be put on the floor.

"Looks like I got a new best friend for the moment," Ren said as he stood up once again.

"I can hold him, it's no problem," Janey said as she approached Ren and held her hands out to her son.

Nicky went to his mother eagerly and Ren had to squash a felling of disappointment as he let the child go.

"Did you bring the dreaded nappy bag?" Ren asked with a grin. He had joked about the amount of things Janey needed to carry on an outing with Nicky.

"Yeah, it's on the back seat beside his seat," Janey said as she patted Nicky's back soothingly. She turned and watched Ren head for the door and caught sight of 'Tanaya in the kitchen doorway.

"Hallo Janey, I'm glad you could make it for Brad's birthday. It means so much to him to have Nicky here," 'Tanaya said in a friendly tone.

Janey regarded 'Tanaya for a few moments before looking down the hallway after Ren.

"I know that, and Nicky loves visiting his Daddy." Janey said evenly.

"Would you like a drink or anything?" 'Tanaya asked.

"Dwink, dwink!" Nicky piped up animatedly.

"Let's see what we have in the fridge," 'Tanaya said as she turned and headed into the kitchen.

Left with little choice but to follow her Janey went into the kitchen and watched as 'Tanaya opened the fridge and peered inside.

"Water, juice, flavoured milk," 'Tanaya listed the options.

Janey couldn't help but notice that the juice and flavoured milk were the same brands as she got for Nicky herself.

"Moolk! Moolk!" Nicky said excitedly.

"Looks like it'll be milk," Janey said with a grin at her son.

"I've noticed you give Nicky this added calcium type," 'Tanaya said as she handed Janey the bottle of flavoured milk.

Janey opened the pop-top and let Nicky take the bottle; he put the top in his mouth and drank thirstily.

"Yeah I do," Janey agreed. She chanced a swift look at 'Tanaya and found she was watching Nicky with a kind of longing deep within her eyes, as if she felt the other woman's gaze on her 'Tanaya glanced her way then turned away before either of them could say anything.

"I should have known you were in here," Ren said as he came to the doorway and looked in at them. He held the nappy bag up where Janey could see it. "Put it in on the lounge?"

"Yeah," Janey agreed as she followed him into the lounge room. "Do you want to play with the toys Nicky?"

Nicky tightened his hold on Janey and rested his head against her shoulder even though it interfered with his drinking the milk; Janey gave a tired sigh and brushed the hair back off Nicky's forehead.

"Why don't you sit down and relax? There's not much to do for the party," Ren said softly.

"Would you be able to bring in the two presents from the front passenger seat?" Janey asked giving him a tired smile.

"Your wish is my command My Lady," Ren said with a gallant bow before heading towards the front door once again.

Janey shook her head with a smile as she sat down on the lounge and settled Nicky in her arms. With any luck he would go back to sleep.

"Ren's still got quite a thing for you," 'Tanaya said quietly.

Janey flicked a quick glance at 'Tanaya but the other woman had turned away and was looking at an ornament she had picked up from on top of the television set.

"Brad, Matty and Brent should be home from work any time now. Matty and Brent are staying here for a few days. Their block of flats lost its roof." 'Tanaya said.

"They lose much to water damage?" Janey asked with concern.

"A bit of stuff but nothing they can't replace with time," 'Tanaya said and took a deep breath before asking. "Has Nicky been very miserable with teething?" 

Janey looked at 'Tanaya but she could only see friendly concern on the older woman's face.

"He was very restless last night and kept waking up," Janey finally said as she looked away from 'Tanaya.

"It must be hard being an only parent when Nicky is like that," 'Tanaya said quietly.

"I manage quite well and if I need help my parents are only too happy to help," Janey said defensively.

"I don't mean anything bad, just that it must be hard knowing it's always your turn to get up in the middle of the night to him," 'Tanaya said and sat down on the front edge of the recliner chair.

Janey gave her a suspicious look before turning her attention back to Nicky who was nearly asleep.

"I don't mind. I knew what I was getting into when I decided to have him," Janey said tightly.

"Where do you want these?" Ren asked as he walked into the room with a wrapped parcel in each arm. 

He had been standing just out of sight in the hallway and had heard the exchange between Janey and 'Tanaya; it was clear to him that Janey wasn't aware that 'Tanaya had meant what she had said as a compliment.

"How about on the table on the back veranda with the other presents?" 'Tanaya asked.

"Yeah, okay." Janey agreed. She looked down at Nicky and almost groaned with relief as she saw he was asleep.

"If you like you can put Nicky in his cot and we can turn the radio on softly so he has company," 'Tanaya said as she noticed Nicky was asleep.

Janey frowned for a moment then nodded. "Sounds like a good idea," She agreed.

As Janey followed 'Tanaya into the bedroom where Brad had set up a cot for Nicky Ren headed out onto the back veranda. He knew he had to give both women room to come to some sort of common ground between them. Brad or himself hovering would only slow that process.

By the time Nicky was settled in the cot and Janey was satisfied that he would stay asleep both Ren and 'Tanaya were in the kitchen checking on the baked meal they were preparing. Janey paused in the doorway and watched as Ren basted a large roast before he shut the oven and turned away from the stove.

"Now all we have to do is wait for the birthday boy to get here," 'Tanaya said with a glance at the clock.




Halo Ch. 04



"I'm going to go sit in the lounge room for a while," Ren said and walked towards the doorway. Janey stepped backwards and Ren smiled as he moved closer to her rather then moving through the doorway. "Want to come into the lounge room with me?"       

Janey felt goose bumps form as the husky timber of his voice washed over her. She found herself nodding wordlessly and following him into to lounge room and seating herself on the lounge beside him.

The noisy arrival of several sets of boot clad feet at the front door broke the spell and Janey hurriedly got to her feet and moved away from the lounge as 'Tanaya hurried up the hallway.

Janey refused to look at Ren as she heard Brad's voice as he greeted 'Tanaya; then Matty said something and Brad laughed but the sound was quickly muted as 'Tanaya spoke firmly.

"Hey Janey, I'm glad you and Nicky could make it today," Brad said warmly as he walked into view.

Janey smiled in reply and walked over to place both hands on his chest and stand on tiptoe to brush a quick shy kiss on his cheek.

"Happy birthday," Janey said.

"You call that a birthday kiss?" Brad asked with a grin. Before Janey could react he cradled her face in his hands and lowered his head to kiss her squarely on her lips. The kiss was firm but brief and he was releasing her before she realised he had intended to kiss her.

"It only counts if the sheila kisses you, not the other way around!" Brent said as he shoved Brad good-naturedly.

Janey stepped back away from him hurriedly; the kiss had been nothing more than a kiss shared between friends but she was left feeling shaken and unsure of herself. For so long she had shied away from unnecessary physical contact and Brad's matter-of-fact manner in kissing her had shaken her.

She realised with a start it wasn't the fact he had kissed her that had startled her but the fact she didn't feel threatened by him. Nervously she darted a quick glance his way only to find him glancing her way. She met his eyes levelly and when he smiled she smiled in return.

"So where is my birthday kiss from you 'Tanaya?" Brad asked gruffly.

'Tanaya laughed as she moved close and slipped her arms up over his shoulders. As she leant close' she pulled his head down so their lips met and those standing close to them could nearly feel the electricity crackling in the air as 'Tanaya kissed Brad deeply while grinding her body against his.

"Someone throw a bucket of water on them!" Ren said with a chuckle as he appeared at Janey's side. He took a steady look to see that Brad had not upset her and she smiled faintly at him.

"I think we'd need a fire hose," Matty piped up.

Brad finally freed himself with a groan and 'Tanaya grinned back over her shoulder at him as she headed for the kitchen.

"Who wants a cup of coffee? No cold beer for you lot, I can taste it on Brad," 'Tanaya said with a smile.

"We only had one. I wanted to get here to spend time with you," Brad told her as he followed her. "And Nicky of course."

"I'm just going to peep in on my boy first, then I'll have a coffee," Brad said as he headed for the bedroom.

Janey found herself watching uncertainly as all but Brad headed for the kitchen. She hesitated a moment then followed them into the room and stood back near a wall trying to keep back out of everyone's way.

"You having a drink of some kind Janey?" Matty asked when he noticed her standing back away from the table.

Janey flushed self-consciously as everyone looked her way. She fidgeted and glanced down at her feet as she shook her head slightly. "I'm right thanks," she said softly.

"You sure? I'll even give you some of my tim-tams if you want some," Ren said with a grin.

Janey felt the heat rise in her face as she remembered exactly how Ren ate the tim-tams the last time she had been with him; she looked away and then darted a quick look towards him from under her lashes.

He was watching her with a hungry look on his face and Janey felt her nipples become sensitive as they pebbled into hard buds while heat settled low in her stomach causing an empty ache between her thighs.

Ren smiled as Janey looked away and crossed her arms over her breasts but he had already seen how her nipples had puckered under his look. He watched as she ducked her head and moved from foot to foot restively before glancing his way once again.

Ren reached for a tim-tam from the packet on the table, looked at it hungrily and then looked at Janey. He dropped his gaze from her lips to her breasts and then down to the apex of her thighs where he knew she tasted sweet. 

He watched as her face flushed and she licked her lips before looking away with a gasp. He smiled to himself as he took a bite of the biscuit and thought how much better it would taste on Janey's lips.

"Look who was sitting up in his cot chewing on his teddy's ear," Brad said as he walked into the kitchen carrying Nicky while the child chewed his toy determinedly.

"His teeth are worrying him," Janey said as she went to take her son.

"It's fine. I can look after him and let you have a break. You almost look as if you're ready to fall asleep on your feet," Brad said gently.

"I'm fine," Janey denied but she stepped back happy to leave Brad holding Nicky.

"Why don't you stay here tonight and let me look after Nicky and give you a break?" Brad suggested.

"But you work tomorrow," Janey protested.

"I got tomorrow morning off. I have to go see my parole officer," Brad said with a shrug.

"Janey can have the spare bedroom. I can doss down in the lounge room for the night." Ren said. 

"You'll stay?" Brad asked hopefully.

Janey looked at him uncertainly then glanced at 'Tanaya.

"You're welcome to stay," 'Tanaya said with a friendly smile.

Janey glanced at Ren and found him watching her with a guarded expression. Janey wanted to stay so Brad could have more time with Nicky but also she found she wanted Ren to want her to stay. Confused by her yearning for Ren when it was Adam she was engaged to, Adam she was in a sexual relationship with, she hunched her shoulders as she shrugged a non-committal answer.

"My parents are expecting me to return home tonight," Janey said faintly.

"You could give them a call, let them know you're staying until the morning. Relax, enjoy yourself," Ren said quietly.

Janey was silent for a few minutes and Brad finally let out a sigh.

"Well you're welcome here for as long as you care to stay," 'Tanaya said, "No-one will try to force you to stay if you prefer to go home."

Janey sent a startled look her way before giving a slight nod; surely 'Tanaya would be the one who didn't want her to stay if any of them did.

"Sure you don't anything to drink?" Ren asked as he got the milk from the fridge.

"Maybe something cold? Soda?" Janey said uncertainly.

"We got coke, orange or lemonade," Ren said as he looked over his shoulder at her.

"Coke-a-cola," Janey answered softly.

Ren got a can of drink and shut the fridge. He placed the can on the side of the table closest to Janey and turned back to making his own coffee.

"I don't think I got enough nappies with us to do overnight anyway," Janey said quietly.

"We can go down to the supermarket and get some disposables if you like," Ren offered.

Janey glanced at him and found him watching her closely. One corner of his mouth lifted slowly in a smile as she watched him for a few moments.

"Okay," Janey suddenly agreed.

"Shall we walk, take a vehicle or maybe take my bike?" Ren asked as he put his coffee cup down without drinking any of its contents.

"Errr, take a vehicle," Janey said.

"We can go in my 4wd and I can fill the tank up while I'm at it," Ren said as he headed for the door.

Janey hesitated a moment, glanced at Brad who gave a nod and bounced Nicky slightly making the boy laugh around the toy in his mouth. She turned and followed Ren from the room. She grabbed her wallet from the lounge where she had left it then waited while Ren retrieved his keys and wallet from his room.

Janey was slightly nervous as she climbed into the passenger seat of Ren's vehicle and buckled her seat belt.

"All set?" Ren asked before starting the engine.

"Yes," Janey said with a faint smile.

Janey was silent on the drive to the supermarket and sat without moving when Ren parked the vehicle and turned off the motor. She sat watching the busy activity of the afternoon shoppers and suddenly the trip to buy nappies didn't seem like such a good idea; there were too many people she didn't know, especially men.

"...Hey Blondie, Blondie ...is there a problem?" Ren asked gently when Janey looked his way distractedly.

"...I ...ummm, it's busy...I ...ummm," Janey stammered.

"And you don't like a lot of people around," Ren said stating the facts as he saw them. "Is it crowds in general?"

Janey looked towards the people standing around the supermarket entrance with jerky movements. Most of the crowd was the local football team.

"It's them ... all the ... them men," Janey said with a shudder.

"It looks like they're selling raffle tickets," Ren said quietly.

Janey looked harder, concentrating on the activity and soon realised he was right. "Oh, yeah. They are."

"Shall we?" Ren asked as he released the catch of his seatbelt.

Janey glanced his way with a nervous smile and gave a faint nod. Ren was out of the vehicle and around to her door before she could get out; he shut the door for her and was at her side as they headed for the front of the supermarket.

"Blondie, I'm right here beside you if you need me," Ren said soothingly and saw the faint nod she managed.

As they reached the front of the store Ren was careful to make sure that he was between Janey and the football players who were selling raffle tickets. He gave them a friendly nod and kept going into the store.

Ren picked up a shopping basket and carried it as they made their way to the aisle that contained the baby items. He watched as Janey selected the correct size nappies and put them in the basket. He couldn't help noticing the way she kept glancing around nervously and whenever her eyes met his he smiled reassuringly.

At the checkout he waited patiently while they stood in line and when Janey missed moving up to the cashier because she was so nervous he gently urged her forward.

Janey paid for the nappies and headed for the front doors to the store with a nervous glance to make sure Ren was nearby.

"I'm right here," Ren said softly as she glanced towards him nervously. "You're doing great."

Ren was careful to keep himself between Janey and the ticket sellers as they left the store. When one of the players approached them Ren casually reached for Janey's hand and held it as they stopped.

"Can I interest either of you in tickets in our raffle?" the huskily built man asked.

"I'll take a couple," Ren said. "Lets just move over here out of the way," He said and moved a few steps so that they were standing out of the general path of everyone and were a little bit away from the other footballers.

Janey held Ren's hand tightly while the man wrote out the tickets then tore the ends off and handed them to Ren while Ren handed over some coins. She kept hold of his hand as they walked to his vehicle and Ren opened her door for her; he waited until she was safely in the vehicle and had let go of his hand before shutting the door and heading around to his side of the vehicle.



Halo Ch. 05



Janey sat in the middle of the lounge, leant back and relaxed. It was getting late and she was tired but she was having a great time; Brad had bathed Nicky after they had eaten and put him to bed when he had fallen asleep.

Brad was sitting in the recliner chair with 'Tanaya on his lap while Matty, Ren and Brent were sitting on chairs around a small table playing cards.

Janey had declined playing as she was enjoying being able to have a couple of glasses of wine since Brad wasn't drinking and had declared he would be looking after Nicky.

Remembering her drink Janey lifted the glass to her lips and took several small sips of wine; it flowed down her throat smoothly leaving a trail of warmth in its wake. She glanced at the three playing cards as Ren gave a soft yell and put his cards on the table; the other two threw their cards down with good-natured complaints that he had to have cheated to win.

Brad laughed throatily and shifted 'Tanaya slightly on his lap.

"How about we watch that movie now?" Brad asked rubbing his hand up and down 'Tanaya's thigh as she sat across his lap.

"I'll put it on," Matty volunteered.

"What! Ready to quit playing already?" Ren teased.

"I think you've won all his lunch money for the week," 'Tanaya laughed even though she knew the three hadn't been playing for money.

"Actually I've won the right to sit up and fight Blondie here for the biggest piece of lounge!" Ren laughed as he leapt to his feet and sat on the lounge crowding Janey and trying to tickle her playfully.

"You'll spill my drink!" Janey squealed as she held the glass well away from herself.

Ren laughed and caught hold of her hand and gently manoeuvred her hand to bring the glass to his own lips so he could finish what little wine was left.

Janey watched as Ren carefully placed his lips in the exact spot she had sipped from; her eyes moved down to his throat and she saw his adam's apple bob as he drank the remaining wine.

"Hey!" Janey protested.

"It was getting warm anyway. Just how long have you been nursing that drink?" Ren asked before running his tongue over his top lip and removing a few stray drops of wine from his moustache.

"I'm not much of a drinker," Janey said thinking he was scolding her for not being an enthusiastic drinker of the alcohol she had chosen.

"But you enjoyed what you did drink?" Ren asked softly as he saw the unease in her eyes.

"Yes," Janey admitted after a few moments pause.

"Do you want more to drink? Or maybe a soda or a hot drink?" Ren asked as he settled himself comfortably and stretched one arm out on the back of the lounge behind her.

Janey looked down to where he still had held her hand around the empty glass and glanced up into his face slightly dazed.

Ren grinned down into Janey's eyes. He could see that the wine was having a slight affect on her, befuddling her senses and making her even sleepier.

"I'm right thanks," Janey finally managed and looked away from his intent gaze.

"Okay, just checking if you wanted another drink," Ren said getting to his feet as he took the glass from her unresisting fingers. He glanced around at the others inquiringly.

"I've had enough," Matty said.

"Me too," Brent acknowledged.

"I'll have a coffee if you're boiling the kettle," 'Tanaya said and turned questioning eyes on Brad.

"Yeah a coffee here as well," Brad said with a smile at 'Tanaya.

Janey flicked a quick glance Ren's way as he headed for the kitchen.

Brent got up to sit on the lounge on the opposite side of Janey to where Ren had sat; he glanced at Janey when she moved as he sat down.

"Okay with you if I sit here?" Brent asked.

"Yeah sure," Janey said with a faint smile. She was comfortable around all those in the room and didn't mind any of them sitting near her.

Ren returned shortly and paused as he looked at Brent where he sat on the lounge; he was pleased to see that Janey was quite comfortable and showed no signs of unease.

"Kettle's on. I'm pulling the bed out of the lounge now so I can be comfortable while I watch the movie," Ren declared as he moved to stand in front of the lounge.

Brent got to his feet and turned around to face the lounge so he could give Ren a hand with unfolding the lounge; he looked at Janey where she sat uncertainly and raised an eyebrow.

"You'll have to move out of the way so we can open out the lounge," Ren said gently.

Janey got to her feet and moved out of the way and watched uncertainly as the two men lifted the lounge seat to pull a bed frame from the inside of the lounge. Quickly they placed the mattress from behind the lounge on the frame.

Ren grabbed a sheet and quickly shook it out over the mattress and then stepped back.

Janey watched as Brent sat up against the back of the lounge and stretched his legs out in front, she darted a quick look at Ren but he was headed back into the kitchen where she could hear the kettle whistling its alarm.

"Make yourself comfortable. You're okay to share the lounge," Brent said with a nod.

Janey swallowed nervously and silently reminded herself that she was safe and amongst friends. The others seemed unaware of her inner battle as she forced down her fears, hesitantly sat on the edge of the fold out bed and focused her attention on the tv screen. She almost sighed aloud with relief when Ren returned to the lounge room carrying three steaming mugs.

"Would you mind moving over so that I can sit down?" Ren asked Janey after handing Brad and 'Tanaya their drinks.

Janey moved to the centre of the mattress and sat with her back leaning against the back of the lounge; she relaxed slightly as Ren sat beside her and made himself comfortable.

As Ren settled himself comfortably he glanced across at Brent with a faint frown. If not for the fact that Janey was sitting so close to him that he could feel her shoulder touching his and her thigh along side his he would have told Brent to move away and stop making Janey feel crowded.

He reached behind her and stretched his arm out along the back of the lounge. He felt Janey shift slightly then lean into his side as she resettled herself.

"Comfortable?" Ren asked quietly.

Janey glanced his way only to find him watching her with dark eyes. She turned away suddenly shy and nodded silently.

Soon Janey was immersed in the movie and when she started feeling really tired she moved so that she was stretched out on her stomach with her head at the bottom of the mattress and her feet up near Ren's ribs. She rested her chin on her arms where she had them crossed in front of her and within a few minutes her head was resting on her arms and she was asleep.

Ren glanced down at Janey and saw how she lay with her head resting on her arms. He smiled to himself as he realised she had fallen asleep. He swung his legs off the mattress, got up and walked to where blankets and pillows were sitting in a pile by the far wall.

"Toss me a pillow while you're there would you?" Matty asked from where he was stretched out in a sleeping bag on a foam camping mat.

Ren picked up a second pillow and tossed it to Matty before picking up a warm blanket.

"I could do with a pillow as well," Brent said quietly.

"Did you pair loose the use of your legs?" Ren asked as he tossed a pillow to Brent.

"We been working all day," Matty said after giving his pillow several thumps to mould it to a usable shape.

"Any objections to turning the light out?" Brad asked. When the others chorused their approval he reached up over his head to the switch on the wall and flicked it off.

Ren put his pillow down by Janey's head and spread the blanket over her before slipping under the blanket and stretching out beside her. Janey murmured in her sleep as the mattress dipped beneath his weight and then she rolled towards him.

Ren slipped his arm over her waist and cuddled up against her back. Her bottom nestled in his lap and he felt his body harden even further than it already was. He forced himself to ignore the feel of her soft warm body against his chest and groin as he focused his attention on the movie.

* * * * *

Janey moaned softly with pleasure and turned her face into the warm body carrying her in their arms. She inhaled deeply sure it was a dream as the well remembered tangy smell of aftershave washed over her senses.

"Here you go, the bed's nice and warm and soft."

Janey smiled in her sleep. Her dream even had Ren's voice.

"Here, let's get those track pants off so you'll be more comfortable," he said whisper soft near her ear.

Janey made a soft sound of complaint in her throat as the seeming reality of her dream threatened to wake her. Strong but gentle hands pushed the track pants and underwear down over her hips, lifting her hips at the same time as they slipped the pants from her body.

The covers were pulled up over her body and tucked in around her trapping the warmth in with her.

"There you go. Nice and warm." The voice was slightly husky and Janey frowned in her sleep. He was slipping away from her again. He came to her in her dreams but always left leaving her feeling cold and bereft.

"Don't go. I need you," Janey protested softly as she felt his presence slipping away.

"You'll be alright," he whispered and brushed the hair back off her face.

"Stay with me," Janey whispered as she slipped deeper into her dreams. "I feel safe when you're with me."

Ren hesitated a moment then began to undress. He hesitated again when he stood wearing only his underwear but decided against taking it off, it would be easier for him to control his body's desires if there was at least one layer of clothing between their bodies. Trying not to disturb Janey he lifted the bedclothes and eased into the bed. He was unable to resist taking her in his arms and holding her close.

A deeper warmth enveloped her and Janey sighed as she snuggled closer. Even Ren's scent had invaded her dreams; it soothed her and twined about her senses as she rubbed her cheek against the warm skin beneath her cheek.

Slowly Janey became aware that she was not asleep and the heartbeat beneath her ear was real. She opened her eyes and could make out dim outlines as she realised she was in the spare bedroom at Brad and 'Tanaya's.

"Ren?" Janey asked softly.

"Hmmm," he answered deep in his throat.

Janey felt heat flood her body as she realised that she was in bed with Ren. Not only was she in bed with him but also he was wearing next to nothing and she became aware with a start that she was naked from the waist down. 

Suddenly she realised that she wanted him with a desperation that made all the reasons why she shouldn't want him fade into dim memories in the shadows of her mind.

Slowly she trailed her hand across his chest feeling the solid muscles beneath the skin. She turned her head and nuzzled against his chest the slightly salty taste of his skin against her lips and tongue.

The engagement ring Adam had given her caught against the bedclothes and Janey hesitated a moment before pulling it from her finger and reaching out to put it on the night stand by the bed. She sat up for a moment, pulled the oversized t-shirt she wore off over her head before removing her bra and laying down once more.

When she turned back to Ren he caught her face in his hands and kissed her lightly and briefly before raising his head.

"You sure about this?" he asked huskily. " Because once I start I don't think I'll be able to stop."

"I want this," Janey whispered then kissed him on the lips. "I want you, I want us."

She closed her lips over his and kissed him softly. She felt his lips part beneath hers and then he was kissing her hotly, his tongue thrusting into her mouth as he rediscovered the sweetness that was unique to her.

Janey moaned with pleasure as his lips left hers to skim across her cheek and then he was kissing just below her ear. She ran her hands over his chest then up onto his shoulders. She could feel his muscles ripple beneath his skin as he urged her onto her back.

His lips traced down the side of her neck and paused when they reached the soft skin where her neck met her shoulders.

"Did he leave that mark here?" Ren asked softly.

"Yes," Janey whispered in answer. She knew he was asking about the faint mark Adam had left behind.

She felt his mouth close over the spot and she tilted her head to the side to give him better access as he began to suck hard on the spot. Janey arched her body up against his as jolts of pleasure and excitement darted from where his mouth was fixed on her neck to the tips of her breasts and to the warm liquid heat between her thighs.

His lips and tongue soothed the tenderness his sucking had caused and then his mouth moved lower, down over her collarbone and into the valley between her breasts.

She twined her fingers in his hair as his lips skimmed over her breast, brushing and teasing but never quite touching where her breasts were full and aching for his attention.

Finally his lips closed over the peak of one breast and Janey gasped as he suckled strongly. Then his lips where releasing her nipple only to close over the other and give it the same treatment.

Janey opened her thighs willingly as Ren moved over her body; slowly he kissed his way down over her ribs and stomach. He flicked his tongue into her navel before closing his lips over it for an instant then he resumed his explorations down towards the triangle of curls below.

Janey held still as she felt his fingers part her moist folds; she felt his warm breath brush over her as he paused to inhale her scent then she felt a jolt of electricity as his lips closed over the hard nub of her clit.

Ren grinned to himself as he heard Janey gasp and jerk as he closed his mouth over the sweet little nub of her clit; he ran his tongue over it briefly before suckling gently and was rewarded for his efforts as Janey gasped once again and her hips rocked against his mouth.

"Mmm...I'd forgot how good it feels," Janey murmured almost incoherently as Ren continued his sweet assault.

Ren lifted his head for a second before taking a long leisurely lick of her slit making her gasp and squirm beneath his mouth. He closed his lips over her opening and began a series of quick licks interspersed with strong thrusts of his tongue into her passage that had Janey gasping and moving helplessly against his lips.

Ren took his time tasting the sweet fruity flavour of Janey before raising his head to look up her body as she lay gasping and moaning softly. Slowly he moved up and over her until he could lower his hips into the cradle of her thighs and rest against her body as he looked down into her face.

He watched as she opened her eyes and looked at him; he saw the faint movements of her tongue as she ran the tip over her lips to moisten them. 

"You sure this is what you want?" Ren asked giving her one last chance to deny him and turn him away.

"I'm sure," Janey said huskily and reached up behind his neck to pull his head down towards her.

She could taste the tang of her own body on his lips as he kissed her hungrily and somehow it seemed right, the way it should be. She felt his body against hers as he shifted slightly, the brush of rigid hard male against the softness of her femininity.

Ren groaned against her lips as he kissed her; he wanted to take his time loving her and make it good for her but his body demanded otherwise.

He felt the wet slickness of her opening against the head of his shaft and shuddered, his body demanding he claim her. He was still for a moment then surged against her strongly.

Janey felt the strong thrust of his body as he sought entrance to her body; there was a moment of incredible pressure then a wonderful fullness as he entered her. Janey pulled her lips from his as she gave a soft cry of surprised pleasure.

Ren realised she was no longer the scared girl he had known but a mature woman, his equal in her own right. She wrapped her legs around his hips and clutched his shoulders close as he began moving rapidly against her.

Ren lowered his head and kissed her deeply as his body forced him to set a rapid pace. He swallowed her whimpers and moans as he kissed her.

Rapidly pressure began to build low in his stomach and he felt the tingling beginning in his balls that heralded the approach of his climax. He ran both hands down her sides and cupped her hips in his hands as he increased his speed. 

Her hands moved restlessly over his back and shoulders as she turned her head away from his lips. He filled her senses. His touches, his possession, were all she needed.

"Please, please...Ren...Ren..." Janey moaned against his shoulder.

Ren became aware of the tightness of her passage, the way her muscles seemed to suck and pull at him as he plunged into her. He tightened his grip on her hips and increased his speed as the tingling grew in his balls and then erupted in a flood of pleasure that rushed up through his cock and flowed forth. He was dimly aware of the added sensations as Janey gasped and surrendered to her orgasm.

Slowly Ren came back to his own body. He could feel an occasional shiver run through Janey and a resulting ripple of her inner muscles where he was still joined with her.

Even though he had found his release he was still far from satisfied, careful not to withdraw from her body Ren eased them onto their sides so he was not resting his full weight on her body. He felt Janey move slightly and then she pressed closer to his body.

"Are you okay?" Ren asked softly.

"Yes," Janey murmured softly.

Ren ran a hand up and down her body slowly in a soothing motion. He rubbed the back of her shoulders before running his fingers lightly down her spine to the hollow just above her hips.

Janey was aware of the fact that Ren was still half hard even though he had cum. She snuggled close and relaxed as he slowly and gently stroked her back. The long leisurely strokes began to rekindle the fires that had burnt so strongly just a few minutes earlier and she sighed with pleasure.

Being in his arms again, being loved by him, filled places within her she had not been aware were empty. She ran her hands over his shoulders as she concentrated on trying to arouse him once again. She didn't want the feeling of completeness to end.

Every now and then a shiver of pleasure ran through her and she felt the jerk of response from his body where it was still inside her.

Janey tilted her head back and when Ren looked down at her she reached up behind his head and pulled him close for a kiss; she slid her tongue into his mouth caressing his tongue and when he thrust his tongue into her mouth she pursed her lips around it and suckled.

Ren groaned and rolled her beneath him as he began to move his hips; she made soft little sounds of pleasure as she loosened her grip with her legs giving him more room to move.

Slowly they kissed - deep long kisses that were soft and gentle as they moved just enough to keep the sensations alive. They took their time rediscovering each other's bodies, finding the places where touches bought pleasure and where the other was extra sensitive.

Gradually their touches and caresses became more ardent and their movements began to transform into long deep thrusts that left Janey moaning softly with pleasure. 

Ren raised his upper body and watched Janey's face in the dim light as she moved beneath him. She kept gasping and swallowing soft little noises of pleasure as he made love to her. He could see her eyes in the dim light, and they were focused on his face; he smiled as caught up in the moment as her.

Slowly he lowered his head until his lips barely touched hers. He kissed her with feather light touches and listened as she whimpered and gasped with pleasure.

Gradually he increased the pace and strength of his thrusts until they were once again moving hard and fast. Abruptly he withdrew and pushed back onto his knees and before Janey could protest rolled her onto her stomach, grasped her hips and pulled her into doggie position. He slid into her hot wet passage before Janey realised what he was doing then reached underneath her and found her clit with his fingers. 




Halo Ch. 05



He strummed the hard little nub between his fingers and thrust hard into her. She stiffened and then pushed back hard against him as wave after wave of shudders went through her.

Ren felt every ripple of her internal muscles as his own release continued to build and only when he was sure he had ensured her complete satisfaction did he release his iron willed control and join her in release. He was careful to ease Janey gently onto her stomach before he collapsed exhausted on the bed, still joined intimately.

Janey lay beneath Ren enjoying the sensation of his body pressing her into the mattress. She moved her hips experimentally and Ren groaned near her ear.

"You'll have to give me a few minutes if you still want more," he said huskily.

"I like the feel of you inside me, even this way," Janey said sleepily.

"This way?" Ren queried softly.

"Hmm. from behind," Janey said faintly and moved again.

Ren withdrew from her body and lay on his back. Janey rolled over so that she was cuddled up to his side with her head on his chest. The steady rhythm of his heart thudded beneath her ear and Janey yawned tiredly. A feeling of deep contentment flowed over her and she drifted off to sleep.

Ren lay in the dark listening to Janey's breathing. The soft warmth of her pressed against his side soothed the empty ache he had felt ever since he had seen her with her cop boyfriend the morning following the last time he had made love to her. It had been during the trial, he had been staying at a caravan park and she had turned up one night and they had ended up making love.

How long would it last this time? Ren asked himself. How long is she mine to love?

Janey murmured in her sleep and rolled away from his side; Ren rolled to face her and slipped an arm over her waist to pull her against his chest as he spooned against her back. He felt her tense in his hold, and he murmured soothingly near her ear and felt her relax in his hold.

Ren closed his eyes and slowly drifted to sleep comforted by the feel of Janey in his arms. When she turned in his arms later he rolled onto his back in his sleep allowing her to settle against him more comfortably.

Janey woke to the warmth of a body pressed against her back and the soft whisper of breath brushing against the side of her neck. She became aware of a large hand cupping one of her breasts and as she took a deep breath she became aware of the smell of Ren's aftershave.

Reluctantly she glanced over her shoulder. She could make out Ren behind her and she closed her eyes with a frown. Her eyes flew open as she realised that she was naked and that there appeared to be no clothes on Ren if the feel of his body pressed against her was anything to go by.

The events of the previous few hours came back to her and Janey lifted both hands to press against her eyes as memories flooded through her mind.

"Shit! Shit! Shit!" Janey muttered to herself. 

She felt Ren behind her wake and knew by the movement of the bed that he had pushed himself up on his elbow to look at her.

"Blondie? You okay?" Ren asked softly.

Janey dimly remembered Adam's ring getting snagged in the bedclothes and she sat up abruptly and looked past Ren to see the ring sitting on the nightstand. She groaned deep in her throat as she lay back down and rolled away from Ren as she covered her face with her hands.

"What the hell have I done?" Janey muttered to herself so softly that Ren didn't hear her.

"Blondie?" Ren questioned softly as he leant over her.

Janey remained silent even when Ren repeated his question. She felt his hand come to rest on her stomach, pause then start to move in soothing circles.

Suddenly she found herself wishing that Ren would make love to her again so she wouldn't have to think about what had happened between them. If he were to make love to her she wouldn't be able to think, she'd just feel the exquisite pleasure his touch always bought.

"Shhh, it's okay," Ren murmured quietly thinking Janey had had some kind of nightmare.

He felt her move slightly under his touch and then she rolled towards him, her hands reaching for his shoulders as she pressed herself against him. When he felt her lips brush the side of his chin he turned his head towards her and kissed her lightly.

Janey opened her mouth beneath Ren's kiss and when he eased away from her she ran her hands down his chest, tracing the shape of his muscles as she went. She felt his breathing deepen as her hand traced the flat hard abdomen muscles of his stomach; she circled his navel and felt a shiver go through his body.

"Turn about is fair play," Janey said softly then lowered her lips to his chest. She felt the soft laugh vibrate through his chest as she began to trail kisses across his skin. She flicked her tongue across a hard male nipple then closed her lips over it and suckled gently. She heard Ren's sharp gasp and then his hand was rubbing the back of her neck and shoulders.

One of her hands found the thin trail of hair from his navel and followed it downwards until she felt the tip of his already rigid cock jerk against the edge of her hand. Softly she trailed her fingertips over his shaft, lightly tracing the ridges and veins along its length.

Janey lifted her head, took a deep breath and then disappeared beneath the blankets. She moved her hand back to the top of his hard shaft and her fingers found a trace of moisture that told her precum was starting to form at the slit on the head of his cock.

Working by feel she moved lower until she could replace her fingers with her lips and felt the responding jerk of Ren's body as she engulfed the head of his cock in her mouth.

She took her time as she worked her tongue and lips around the head of his cock; she could taste the tang of their earlier passion on him. Gradually she worked her mouth further down the length of his cock then started to move her head up and down slowly. 

As Janey worked her mouth up and down his cock she felt the empty ache that began to build between her thighs change to a throbbing need. She continued until her jaw began to hurt before withdrawing her mouth from his cock reluctantly.

Her breasts felt full and heavy and the nipples throbbed and tingled. She could feel wetness down the inside of her thighs and a pulsing within the wetness beneath the curls that covered her mound.

She felt Ren's hand settle between her shoulder blades and urge her back up his body.

"Come up here," Ren said huskily.

He drew Janey close as she stretched out beside him and gently rolled her onto her back; his mouth trailed down the side of her neck licking, kissing and sucking gently as it moved. He cupped one full breast in his hand and was rewarded by Janey's soft moan of pleasure as he brushed his thumb back and forth over her nipple.

Ren moved slowly leaving a trail of kisses and gentle nibbles down over her collarbone and upper chest. When he finally closed his mouth over one hard pebble of a nipple Janey gasped and shuddered against him. He ran his hand down her side over her ribs to her hip in slow steady caressing strokes as he suckled at her breast before turning his attention to the other.

Janey was nearly mindless with pleasure before Ren positioned himself between her thighs; he waited until her eyes focused on his before easing into her body with a gentle thrust.

He watched as pleasure flooded Janey's face and she smiled up at him with sexy invitation, he smiled in reply and began to move slowly.

Janey gasped and gave a soft little mewling sound of pleasure; she ran her hands across his shoulders loving the feel of his body beneath her fingers. When Ren moved and withdrew from her body she waited impatiently for him to kneel between her thighs; she allowed him to lift both her legs over his shoulders before easing back into her body and moving in long slow deep thrusts that had her grasping the bed sheets as intense pleasure filled her body.

"That okay? Not hurting you?" Ren asked as he increased the pace of his thrusts.

Janey groaned with pleasure and licked her lips. "It's wonderful," she replied her voice little more than a husky moan.

Ren allowed Janey's legs to slip off his shoulders as his pleasure began to build, the tingling and tightening in his balls warning of his impending release. He felt Janey shift her position slightly and then she was moving more demandingly; he lowered his head to kiss her and he felt her lips open beneath his as they both gasped and panted.

Janey felt something in her stomach tighten sharply and then pleasure flowed from where Ren moved deep within her body; she was unable to stop the cry of pleasure that rose to her lips as she felt Ren shudder and follow her over the edge to release.

When Ren was able to move once more he eased from Janey's body and rolled onto his side taking her with him, she murmured softly and snuggled into his body before giving a soft sigh as she fell into a deep sleep.



Halo Ch. 06



Janey woke to the soft chatter of Nicky beside her; she frowned and turned her head towards him before opening her eyes.

Nicky was happily resting against Ren as he lay in bed with them talking to his favourite toy Teddy.

Janey felt heat rise in her face as Ren glanced at her with a smile as if he had felt her eyes on him.

"Look Nicky, Mummy has woken up. Nicky has been in bed with us for nearly an hour and a half," Ren told her with a smile.

Nicky looked at Janey and gave her one of his brilliant smiles.

"He'll be wet through and hungry. It's a wonder he's not screaming the house down," Janey mumbled with a frown as she looked away from Ren.

"Brad already changed him and 'Tanaya gave him a bowl of fruit and a cup of milk before he came in here to us," Ren said gently.

"Mummummum, Daddaddaddad!" Nicky chatted to her happily.

"Hey there Bubbubbub," Janey said softly as she avoided looking at Ren.

"Why don't we go visit your Dad and let Mummy get up, hey Nicky?" Ren asked softly as he realised there was something troubling Janey.

Janey made no comment and closed her eyes as Ren slipped from the bed.

"No need for that, I got clothes on," Ren said feeling uneasy.

Janey made a noncommittal sound in her throat and opened her eyes to look at her son.

"I'll see you in the kitchen shortly," Ren said softly with a sinking feeling as he lifted Nicky into his arms.

Janey closed her eyes as Ren left the room then opened them with a start when her engagement ring wasn't on her finger to twist in her anxiety. She looked towards the nightstand and took a deep breath as she saw it there.

Janey grimaced at the tenderness between her thighs as she sat up and swung her legs off the edge of the bed; she was surprised to find she wore the t-shirt once again and stiffened as she remembered waking slightly as Ren had slipped it over her head and eased her arms into the sleeves.

Refusing to think about what had occurred the previous night Janey got up and quickly got dressed before heading to the toilet. She carried her engagement ring in her hand unable to bring herself to put it on.

She took her time drawing the simple task out as long as she could before reluctantly heading towards the kitchen.

Brad was standing beside 'Tanaya at the sink while he held Nicky who was chattering to him happily. Janey glanced around uneasily and saw Ren at the fridge getting out a bottle of juice and she looked away hurriedly when he glanced her way.

'Tanaya took in the scene with a quick glance as she turned around. The way Ren was looking at Janey and the clear mark on her neck attested to their shared passion the night before.

"I need milk. You guys go get some would you? And take Nicky for the walk, he'd like that." 'Tanaya ordered firmly.

"But there's milk..." Brad started to protest.

"It's off, go get me more." 'Tanaya said softly but firmly with a frown at Brad.

Realising that 'Tanaya was intent on them leaving Brad gave a slight nod and glanced at Ren.

"Looks like we're on shop duty," Brad remarked and led the way from the kitchen.

Ren hesitated a moment as he looked at Janey where she stood with her back turned towards him slightly and her head bowed; he gave a sigh of frustration then followed Brad.

'Tanaya was silent as she put two pieces of bread into the toaster before pouring a glass of juice and putting it on the table. When the toast popped up she buttered it, placed it on a plate and put it on the table beside the juice.

"Here, sit down and eat this. And for goodness sake stop beating yourself up over what happened last night," 'Tanaya told Janey gently.

Janey glanced at her startled then looked at the toast and juice. "Thanks."

'Tanaya watched as Janey sat down and picked up a piece of toast and nibbled at it half-heartedly. She noticed that Janey held her engagement ring in one hand and was turning it in her fingers restlessly.

"I know I am probably the last person you want to talk to or listen to but I really think you need some advice," 'Tanaya said after several minutes while Janey sat there fiddling with the ring. 

"What? You going to have a go at me about sleeping with Ren?" Janey demanded aggressively.

'Tanaya was silent for a few moments; she could see that Janey was already telling herself off about her actions.

"No, I was actually going to tell you not to focus on the fact that you're involved with two men but look at each one individually and work out what it is they give you or what you draw from your relationship with them. Think about them as separate individuals, their morals and personalities. Then work out what you want," 'Tanaya said evenly.

Janey glanced at her startled. She had not expected anything so sensible from 'Tanaya especially since she had disliked and distrusted 'Tanaya all along.

"Ren said you gave Nicky breakfast," Janey said softly.

"He was hungry," 'Tanaya said gently as she recognised Janey's abrupt change of tone.

"Thanks," Janey said and gave a faint smile.

"So is toast enough or do you want something more filling?" 'Tanaya asked brightly.

"I'm not really hungry," Janey admitted sheepishly.

"How about a cup of coffee," 'Tanaya asked as she poured herself a refill.

Janey glanced at her empty glass of juice surprised to find she had drank it all." That would be good thanks."

'Tanaya poured a second cup of coffee and placed it in front of Janey before sitting down at the table.

"Do you want to talk about what's happening? Or maybe talk about something else to get your mind off it for the moment?" 'Tanaya asked softly.

Janey shook her head and shrugged at the same time. There were tears in her eyes as she glanced at the other woman.

"Do you love either of them?" 'Tanaya asked gently.

"I love Adam, and he's so good to me," Janey said unhappily.

"Is Adam the one who gave you that police file on me?" 'Tanaya asked calmly.

"He knew I felt uneasy about bringing Nicky here and he thought I should know the type of people who would be around him," Janey said softly.

"You do know what he did broke a heap of police and legal rules. Personally I thought he had nothing against me until I told you about Ren's appeal going before the court..." 'Tanaya said letting her sentence trail off.

Janey shook her head in denial but she'd had had the same thoughts herself. 'Tanaya seemed to be the one person here that he had not had voiced doubts about.

"Can I ask how you feel about Ren?" 'Tanaya asked very quietly.

"He scares me, terrifies me. But I feel safe when I'm with him," Janey said unhappy with confusion.

"Yeah, we type of noticed that last night. When you were asleep you nearly mugged him in your sleep, nearly ended up crowding him off the edge of the lounge bed," 'Tanaya said with a grin before asking, "Do you feel safe when you're with Adam?" 

"Why wouldn't I? I know he'll protect me and he's a police officer," Janey said dryly.

"Ummm, who rocks your boat? Adam or Ren?" 'Tanaya asked curiously as she lifted her cup of coffee up for a drink.

"Pardon?" Janey asked slightly outraged.

"Don't want to answer personal questions? Brad's pretty good between the sheets isn't he?" 'Tanaya asked with a smile.

Janey looked away embarrassed by 'Tanaya's forthright manner.

"I mean he might be very well hung but he sure knows how to use it and he's gentle with it," 'Tanaya laughed at Janey's embarrassed blush.

"It doesn't bother you that Brad and I have...ummm...well you know?" Janey asked red faced.

"I knew Brad wasn't a virgin right from the start, before I'd even met him. Brad sleeping with you was one thing Hawk was really angry over. That and the fact Ren had interfered between him and you," 'Tanaya said gently worried that mention of Hawk would upset Janey.

"You knew Hawk?" Janey asked startled.

"Yeah, I met him, and he and his boyfriend hung around with the guy I was with for a few weeks." 'Tanaya admitted softly.

"Ah ummm what did you think of him?" Janey asked almost hesitantly.

"He was very handsome and charming but I always had the uneasy feeling that there was something off about him underneath it all. And Rory, my boyfriend at the time warned me never to be alone with Hawk not long after he met him," 'Tanaya said evenly.

Janey nodded jerkily and picked up her coffee with shaking hands. "He had a cruel streak, not just ordinary cruel either," Janey said with a quiver in her voice.

'Tanaya was silent as Janey took several sips of coffee before putting the cup back on the table.

"He was sadistic," Janey whispered with a shudder.

"But that's in the past now," 'Tanaya said brightly.

"Yeah, it is," Janey agreed with a shaky smile.

"I don't know who gets the most excited when they know you and Nicky are coming to visit, Brad, Ren, Matty, Brent, or me." 'Tanaya said with a faint smile.

Janey glanced at her with surprise, "Why would you be excited about a visit? I've been a bit of a bitch up until now," Janey said with a grimace.

"It's not as if I didn't give you cause to be wary of me," 'Tanaya admitted with a shrug.

"Truce?" Janey asked with a smile.

"I'd really like that," 'Tanaya said with a nod, "and maybe we could be friends at some stage."

"I think we are now," Janey said with a soft laugh.

"Okay, so what are we going to do to these guys when they come back? Send them out for some sugar or a loaf of bread?" 'Tanaya asked brightly with a playful gleam in her eye.

Janey laughed and shook her head, "Make them wear frilly aprons to do the dishes," she suggested.

"Those pair are so secure in their masculinity it would take more than that to shake them," 'Tanaya said with a proud grin.

The smile faded from Janey's face as she caught sight of her ring where it sat on the table, she reached out slowly and picked it up. She turned it over and over in her fingers for several moments before giving a deep sigh and enclosing it in one hand.

"It's going to take some time and thought isn't it," 'Tanaya said gently.

"Yeah," Janey said and glanced across at her. Surprisingly the chat with 'Tanaya had helped her work out what she would do about her situation.

'Tanaya began gathering used cups and plates and got to her feet to take them to the sink. 

Janey finished her cup of coffee then carried her cup, plate and glass to the sink before pausing for a moment.

"I'll just go put this in my purse. I think that's the best place for it," Janey said rolling her engagement ring between her fingers.

"Okay," 'Tanaya said without comment.

Janey headed for the bedroom where she had slept. She found her purse with the bag she had packed for Nicky and placed the ring in her wallet. She heard Brad and Ren return and hesitated a moment before heading back to the kitchen.

"Nicky needed a Freddo frog," Brad said as he turned to face her.

Nicky was held snugly in his arms, his face a gooey mess of smeared chocolate. He held the remains of a chocolate in one messy fist that he was suckling and chewing on with delight.

"So I see," Janey said with a wry smile. "You get to clean him up."

"You still like Mars bars don't you?" Ren asked with a charming smile.

"Yeah I do," Janey said guardedly.

"I got several in case you'd like one as well," Ren said motioning to several different chocolate bars sitting on the table. He remembered Janey had a sweet tooth when it came to chocolate bars and after the way she had all but recoiled from him that morning he was ready to try anything to try to repair the mistake he had made by going to bed with her.

Janey glanced at the chocolate bars and her mouth watered when she saw the Mars bar. She darted a quick glance at Ren then reached for the chocolate. She hesitated a moment and darted a quick glance at Brad and 'Tanaya before pulling her hand back away from the chocolate.

"Would you two be okay with Nicky if Ren and I sat out on the back veranda for a while?" Janey asked softly.

"Yeah sure," 'Tanaya said. " Just take your time okay."

Janey gave a slight nod understanding what 'Tanaya meant before she turned and headed for the back veranda. She heard Ren start to follow her after a moment and tried to think of what she would say to him.

Ren closed the back door behind him then turned to face Janey. She was standing by the veranda railing watching him uneasily.

"I'm sorry about what happened last night. After promising not to do anything I should have walked away," Ren said before Janey could start to say anything.

"I ...ummm ... things have changed. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't willing last night. What happened changed a lot of things," Janey said nervously.

Ren gave a nod and sat down on one of the benches on the veranda. He remained silent as he watched Janey.

"I ... I'm not sure ... ummm ... what'll happen, where things'll go from here," Janey stammered nervously.

Ren gave another nod and remained silent as he waited for her to continue with what she had to say. He watched as she looked down at her hands where she was twisting them nervously in front of her.

"I'm not breaking up with Adam but I won't be wearing the engagement ring anymore. And ... ummm ... I ...ahhh ... want to keep seeing you," Janey finished her sentence with a rush and looked at him nervously.

Ren looked at her with surprise, he had been expecting her to tell him she wanted nothing to do with him, but he certainly hadn't expected this.

"I don't share my women with other guys," Ren said trying to keep the anger out of his voice.

"I don't know what this is between us. I'm honest enough to admit it will probably happen again. I love Adam but ... this ... this thing ... I don't think either of us can ... control it," Janey said uneasily as she saw the anger in his face.

"You claim to love your cop boyfriend and yet you want to keep seeing me even though you know we'll end up in bed together?" Ren asked tightly.

"I...I ..." Janey stammered and took a step backwards.

"What? Doesn't he satisfy you in bed?" Ren bit out angrily. He turned around and stormed back into the house leaving Janey staring after him worriedly.

Janey watched the screen door bounce back from the doorframe and hit the wall; she flinched then took a deep breath as she tried to calm the nerves fluttering in her stomach.

* * * * *

Ren stood by his bike as he looked out across the valley view from the highway rest area. It was well past lunchtime and he was just stopping to eat the sandwiches he had bought along with him.

His feelings still smarted from the blow Janey dealt him the previous day. He had left as soon as he'd seen his parole officer for the week and headed for the open road to do some serious riding and hopefully blow his troubles away.

The thought of Janey returning to Adam after what they shared made his blood boil and he tossed his uneaten sandwich in the bin, his appetite destroyed.

As he gazed out over the green valley he realised that there was no way he could escape from what Janey said; he could only return and face whatever was to eventuate.

'At least Janey was admitting there is something between us,' Ren thought darkly.

Frustrated with the thoughts that kept whirling round and round in his head Ren put his helmet on and straddled his bike once more. It was time to return to the house where Brad and 'Tanaya lived and start looking for a place of his own in earnest.

* * * * *

It was late Saturday afternoon before Ren arrived back at Brad and 'Tanaya's; he was happy to see Janey's vehicle parked out the front of the house as he turned into the driveway and rode his bike up the side of the house.

As he walked in the back door he could hear 'Tanaya and Janey talking in the kitchen and Brad in the lounge room talking to Nicky.

"Any hot coffee?" Ren asked from the doorway of the kitchen.

"Hello stranger. The kettle's not long been boiled," 'Tanaya said as she looked at him with a grin.

"I'll just put my gear away and come make myself a cup," Ren said before heading for his bedroom.

He noticed there was an overnight bag on the foot of his bed and he knew Janey was probably staying the night. He put his duffel bag by the closet then headed for the kitchen.

The kettle had been turned on and was close to boiling when he walked into the room. He got himself a cup from the cupboard and added coffee granules and sugar before turning to face the two women.

"Hi Blondie. How's it going 'Tanaya?" Ren said quietly.

"Hi Ren," Janey said softly.

Ren couldn't help noticing she was slightly wary of him and he didn't blame her after the way he had left during the week.

"Would you like to call me Gabe or Gabriel? That's my Christian name. I just thought maybe you would like to use one of them but if you want to keep calling me Ren. It's fine by me," Ren said with a smile.

"Brent and Matty got a new flat. Their landlord offered them a flat that came vacant," 'Tanaya informed him.

"That's good, very far away?" Ren asked.

"Just in the next block towards the shopping centre," 'Tanaya replied.

The kettle boiled and Ren turned his attention to making his coffee.

"I'm just going to see Brad and our boy," Ren said before taking his cup of coffee and heading for the lounge room.

In the lounge room Brad was helping Nicky build a tower out of toy blocks when Ren walked in. He looked over his shoulder and smiled when he saw who had entered the room.

"Glad to see you back," Brad said quietly.

"I just needed some time and space to myself," Ren said as he seated himself in the recliner chair.

Nicky looked up from where he was playing with the blocks and gave Ren a wide smile before climbing to his feet and toddling over to him; he climbed up onto Ren's lap and sat there leaning back against Ren's chest for several minutes.

"And I'm happy to see you too Nicky," Ren said fondly as he gave the little boy a cuddle.

"Looks like you've got yourself a friend there," Brad remarked when Nicky continued to sit on Ren's lap and was busily chatting away to him.

"That's good because I'm rather fond of the little guy," Ren said his voice slightly thick.

Brad laughed softly, "Looks like you've fallen for the kid just as hard as you have his mother."

Ren gave a faint smile but didn't reply to Brad's remark.

"I been thinking I should go check up on my restaurants," Ren said as he lifted Nicky from his knee and placed him on the floor. 

Nicky walked over to the blocks and sat down with a plonk.

"Do you need to talk to your parole officer about that?" Brad asked.

"I just need to let them know exactly where I would be going and when," Ren replied. He turned his head to look when footsteps sounded but it was just 'Tanaya who came into the room.

"Janey wants to drive back to her parents place and pick up a couple of things she forgot," 'Tanaya said as she looked at Brad and then glanced at Ren.

"Does she want to take Nicky with her?" Brad asked.

"She was hoping to leave him here with you and I was going to go with her," 'Tanaya said quietly.

"You two are really getting on well now aren't you," Brad said with a smile.

"We sure are," 'Tanaya agreed.

Ren looked past 'Tanaya to see Janey standing not far behind her. He smiled at her and watched as she blushed and glanced away.

"Would it be okay if I went with you Janey and let 'Tanaya stay here?" Ren asked evenly.

Janey met Ren's gaze for a moment and then looked at 'Tanaya and Brad who were looking at her waiting for her answer.

"Yeah. If 'Tanaya would rather stay here," Janey agreed.

"I'll be sure of not running into Adam this way," 'Tanaya said sounding slightly relieved.

"Oh no chance of that - he's away for two or three weeks," Janey said evenly with a swift glance at Ren.

Ren didn't comment and Janey looked away silently thankful that he had nothing to say.




Halo Ch. 06



"When do you want to go to your parents' place?" Ren asked.

"I had been thinking to go now and get back in plenty of time to help 'Tanaya with the evening meal," Janey said quietly.

"There's no need for you to help cook. I already told you that," 'Tanaya said evenly.

"We can go now if you want," Ren said to Janey.

Janey glanced at Brad who nodded then she looked at 'Tanaya, "Yeah, now," Janey agreed. 

Ren got to his feet and looked at Janey, "Whose vehicle would you like to go in?"

"My car," Janey said.

"I'll just grab my wallet," Ren said and headed for his room.

Janey followed him and hesitated in the doorway as she watched him putting his jacket on. He checked that his wallet was in its pocket.

Ren glanced at Janey where she stood just inside the door. "It's okay. You can come in and get your jacket and purse," he told her softly.

Janey hesitated a moment more then walked to where her overnight bag sat and picked up her jacket and the wallet beneath it.

"I ... you weren't here when I got here this morning and put my stuff in here." Janey said quietly.

"You're welcome to use this room even while I'm still here whether or not we sleep together," Ren told her gently.

Janey blushed and gave a faint nod before heading for her car.

When both Janey and Ren were in the car and they had reached the out skirts of the town Janey glanced at Ren before licking her lips nervously.

"I wasn't sure if you would want to be around me after what I said Thursday," Janey said, her voice trembling slightly.

"I won't pretend that I like the fact that the ... Adam is still in the picture," Ren said forcing himself to keep his tone even.

Janey gave a slight nod in acknowledgement but didn't say anything further.

"I own several restaurants down south. There's one in Newcastle, two in Sydney, one down near the Victorian border and one north of Melbourne. I've been thinking that I need to check up on them, especially those in Newcastle and Sydney. Would you like to come with me? I'll only be gone a week at the most," Ren said in a quiet even tone.

When there was no reply from Janey he glanced across at her. There was a slight frown on her face and her hands were white knuckled on the steering wheel.

"I couldn't leave Nicky for that long," Janey finally said.

"And I wouldn't expect you to. We could take him with us, travel when it's nap time for him," Ren said gently.

"I'm no good in big cities or crowds," Janey said softly.

"What if I was with you all the time?" Ren asked evenly, "I wouldn't just go off and leave you alone with Nicky."

"I'd ... I'd like to go but ... I ... so many people," Janey stammered uneasily.

"There's no rush. Just think it over," Ren said gently. He began talking about everyday things and asking questions about different things along the road. By the time they reached the turn to Janey's parents' home she was once again at ease.

Janey surveyed the cars outside her parents' house with a frown. She had expected to see James' car but was not pleased to see Robbie's little car as well. As Janey and Ren got out of her car Janey was dismayed to see her father and Robbie walk out of the garage and pause to see whom she had with her.

Jim took a deep breath then walked over towards where Janey had started up the footpath with her companion.

"We weren't expecting you back yet Janey," Jim said and paused as he realised Nicky wasn't with her. "Where's Nicky?"

"Nicky is with his father. I forgot several things and came to pick them up then we'll leave again. I'll be back tomorrow evening or night," Janey said levelly.

"You're Renford aren't you?" Robbie asked as he eyed Ren.

"Gabriel Renford. Ren, Gabe or Gabriel to my friends," Ren said in a friendly tone.

Janey unconsciously held her breath as both her father and brother looked Ren over critically. Finally her father gave a faint nod and offered his hand.

"Jim Wilkinson. This is Robbie my oldest son," Jim said as they shook hands.

"Nice looking place you got here," Ren offered.

"It suits us," Jim said.

"I'll just wait out here with your father and brother while you do whatever you need to do Blondie," Ren said gently to Janey who was watching with a worried expression.

Janey frowned for a moment before turning back towards the house. "I won't be long," she promised.

"Take as much time as you need," Ren told her unconcerned.

With a last worried look at Ren, then her father and brother, she hurried into the house.

"Why are you hanging around Janetta?" Robbie asked once Janey was well out of hearing range.

"Because I happen to think that Janey is one very special person, someone who I hope will become a permanent part of my life," Ren answered levelly.

"Janey is already engaged," Jim said calmly.

"I don't think that Adam is good enough for Janey. She deserves better," Ren said without getting upset.

Jim eyed Ren for several long silent moments; finally he gave a slight smile before looking to see if Janey was coming out of the house yet.

"Hallo there Ren," James said with a friendly smile as he came off the front veranda and walked to where the three men stood.

"Hi James," Ren said with a nod.

"Nicky with Brad?" James asked when he didn't see his nephew.

"Yeah. They're building block towers," Ren said with a smile.

"You mean Brad's building them and Nicky is knocking them down as fast as he can," James said with a wide grin.

Ren gave a soft laugh of appreciation, "You got that right," he admitted.

"What do you do to earn a dollar?" Robbie asked suddenly.

"I'm a Master Chef. Five star qualifications," Ren said evenly.

"As far as I know there's only Hogs Breath Café of that calibre around this area," Jim said doubtfully.

"The Bellowing Bull is high quality," Ren said quietly.

James hid a smile at his father's attempt to see how well Ren knew the restaurants in the area.

"Decided to come for the drive with Janey?" Robbie asked almost insultingly.

"I'm sure you know your sister better than that," Ren said in an even tone as he met Robbie's look with a hard expression. "Sometimes Janey needs someone with her for company."

Robbie eyed Ren thoughtfully. He was sure the guy was a lot more aware of what Janey needed than Adam. 

"How are Janey and 'Tanaya getting on?" James asked hoping to defuse the situation.

"They've worked things out and are starting to get on pretty well," Ren said with a slight nod.

"Are you two saying Janey didn't or doesn't like the woman that Nicky's father is with?" Jim asked suspiciously.

"Janey didn't know Shantanaya so she wasn't too sure of her being around Nicky," Ren said then looked straight at Robbie. "Then your mate dug up a sealed report and gave it to Janey just to make trouble."

A muscle jumped in Robbie's jaw as he clenched it tightly before responding. "Adam has to account to his superiors over that. Plus he has to face the head of the department that worked on my sister's case in regards to some concerns they have now developed," Robbie said tightly.

"Robbie would you care to explain?" Jim demanded.

"Later Dad," Robbie said calmly.

Ren caught sight of Janey as she hurried out of the house carrying a small overnight bag. He smiled reassuringly at her as she approached wearing a worried frown.

"Have you got all you wanted to get?" Ren asked gently.

"Yeah," Janey mumbled and glanced between her father and two brothers before looking at Ren but he didn't seem in the least bit worried. She stepped close and clasped one of his hands in hers to lend her silent support in case her father and brothers had been hassling him.

Jim narrowed his eyes thoughtfully as he saw the way Janey silently gave the blonde guy her support. Even though she was engaged to Adam, Jim had never seen her act towards him in such a way.

"I'll see you when you get home," Jim said and sent Ren a look that warned him he had best look after Janey and be on his best behaviour.

In the car Janey breathed a sigh of relief when she turned onto the road that led to the highway.

"I'm sorry about my father and brothers," Janey said with a nervous glance towards Ren.

"Your father and brothers just happen to care about you and I'm fine with the way they acted. After all they don't know me," Ren said gently.

Janey sent him a slight smile before turning her full attention to driving.



Halo Ch. 07



Hallo to all the people who have been following the story, sorry it has taken so long for me to post this chapter. Real life has intruded.



Janey smoothed her nightie down over her breasts and stomach nervously before putting on her dressing gown and doing up the buttons that were in a row down the front of the garment.

She had grabbed the nightie on impulse when she had returned to her Parents' place and now regretted the impulsive action. The way the silky material brushed against her overly sensitive nipples only kept her body in a state of semi arousal and thoughts of the night ahead did nothing to lessen her tension.

She opened the bathroom door and walked out towards the lounge room slowly; she felt Ren's eyes on her even before she looked his way to find him watching her with hooded eyes.

Janey glanced away from Ren, suddenly shy, and sat on the end of the lounge well away from him.

Ren merely smiled at Janey's shyness and lifted his arm to lay it along the back of the lounge. He glanced at Brad and 'Tanaya where they were sitting on the floor playing with Nicky who was rubbing his eyes tiredly.

Nicky looked up and spotted his mother; he crawled to the lounge and pulled himself up using the lounge as support before pulling at her legs and whimpering softly.

"Do you want to come up Nicky?" Janey asked as she reached for her son.

"Up Mummy," Nicky said softly as he snuggled into her body.

Janey cuddled her son to her; he turned his head and rubbed his face tiredly against her, pressing into her breasts. Janey grimaced at the pressure and frowned as she eased Nicky away from her slightly. Nicky closed his eyes and clutched at the familiar dressing gown; he was asleep within minutes and Janey continued to sit there looking down at her son.

"He asleep?" Brad asked softly as he got to his feet.

"Yeah," Janey acknowledged as she continued to watch her son's face.

Brad gently lifted Nicky from Janey's arms and carried him towards his bedroom. 'Tanaya got to her feet and followed him.

"You're very quiet," Ren said quietly. He had noticed that Janey had become more edgy and withdrawn as the evening wore on.

"I might sleep out here tonight," Janey said faintly.

"You can sleep in my room. I promise not to do anything you don't want, or I can sleep out here," Ren said softly.

"There's no need for you not to sleep in your bed. I can sleep out here," Janey said even more faintly.

"Come on. You can tell me what's wrong," Ren soothed gently.

Janey glanced at him uneasily from the side of her eye then looked away quickly. "I got my period," she whispered quietly.

"That's not a problem. It just means we have a good chance to cuddle up and talk," Ren told her.

Janey glanced at him startled before looking away hurriedly. Lately when she got her period Adam had became dark and brooding.

"I certainly do not want to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or that you dislike," Ren told her in soft soothing tones.

He moved closer to her until he could reach behind her then reached out with his hand and gently stroked his fingers down her upper arm.

He felt her flinch beneath his light touch then glance his way uneasily before looking away. As he continued to stroke her arm gently he noticed that she was visibly relaxing. Finally she shifted closer to him and leant into his embrace trustingly.

Ren leant closer and lowered his face towards her; Janey tilted her head back and closed her eyes as he brushed a light kiss against her lips. He rested his forehead against hers and struggled to keep his breathing steady as he remained there with his eyes closed and just enjoyed her closeness.

When Ren lifted his head Janey opened her eyes slowly and blushed before looking away shyly.

She allowed herself to be cuddled against his side and tucked her feet up under herself as she leant into his warmth; she felt surprisingly safe and at peace as she turned her attention back to the tv program.

After nearly half an hour Janey realised that neither Brad nor 'Tanaya had returned from putting Nicky to bed. She glanced around with a frown and sat up moving away from Ren's side slightly.

"Anything wrong?" Ren asked quietly.

"Where have Brad and 'Tanaya gone?" Janey asked puzzled.

"I think we'd find they've gone to bed," Ren said with a hint of a smile in his voice.

"Oh!" Janey said startled and glanced around before settling against his side once again.

"Bed sounds like a good idea actually," Ren said.

Janey glanced at him suddenly nervous once again; she licked her lips nervously before giving a slight nod. She knew that she could trust Ren and she had to admit to herself that she wanted to be held in his arms all night.

Ren gently eased Janey away from his side and got to his feet. He turned and faced her before holding out one hand in a silent invitation to help her stand up.

Janey swung her feet off the lounge and placed her hand in Ren's before standing up. His fingers wrapped around hers and she found herself drawn into his arms.

His lips were light and gentle against hers as he brushed soft easy kisses across her mouth, keeping things light and undemanding.

"Let me turn the tv off and we can go to bed," Ren murmured huskily against her lips.

Janey swallowed her soft moan of complaint as he released her and turned away. She swayed towards him slightly before collecting her wits and taking a step towards the hallway. 

She was glad of the chance to get to the bedroom and get into bed before Ren entered the room. Wearing the nightie worried her in case Ren took it as an invitation to more than just sleeping in the same bed.

"Hot damn! I surely do hope you're going to wear that outfit again when I get the chance to take it off you," Ren growled huskily from the doorway.

Janey froze as she held the bedclothes up prior to getting into bed; she glanced across the bed at Ren nervously but he was already turning around to sit on the bed to take his boots off. Quickly she slipped into bed and stretched out on her side so she could watch him undress.

Ren was aware of Janey watching him as he stood up and faced the bed. He started unbuttoning his shirt and he caught a glimmer of her eye for just a fraction of a second as he shrugged out of the garment.

Janey felt the breathless anticipation build as she watched Ren shrug out of his shirt. Heat began to pool low in her stomach and her breasts suddenly felt full and heavy. She squeezed her eyes shut as she felt the hot rush of embarrassment fill her face and she was thankful for the darkness of the room.

Cool air slipped beneath the covers and Janey opened her eyes hastily as she realised that Ren was about to get in the bed. She waited until he had settled himself before scooting closer and reaching out towards him.

"Tired?" Ren asked softly and wrapped his arms around her before nuzzling against the side of her neck.

Janey felt her heartbeat speed up and her nipples pucker into hard little buds as his lips brushed her ear as he spoke. She gasped and arched into his body as his lips found the pulse at the base of her neck.

"I can't, I can't," Janey protested even as she began running her hands over his shoulders. 

Some instinct told her that Ren would not get moody and cranky on such occasions as this. So with a soft sigh she stopped fighting her body and surrendered to the sensations Ren was arousing with his kisses and caressing.

Ren felt Janey relax and raised his head to look down into her face, "You okay Blondie?" he asked softly.

"I'm fine," Janey said and with a soft sigh she ran one hand down his chest.

Ren caught her straying hand before it went past his waist; gently he twined his fingers through hers and lifted her hand to kiss the inside of her wrist.

"Play with anything down there and I'll end up messing these sheets," Ren said ruefully before lowering his head to kiss her.

Janey moaned softly with pleasure as his lips covered hers, but when he kept the kiss light and didn't slip his tongue between her parted lips she moaned in frustration and wriggled against him.

Ren grinned against her lips as he felt her wriggle against him. He lifted his head breaking off the kiss with a regretful sigh as his body tightened painfully.

"It'll be easier for both of us to stop if we keep things light," Ren said gently.

It took a few moments for Janey to be able to make sense of his words but as she did she had to admit to herself he was right.

"I could give you a blow job," Janey said.

"There's no need to. I'll survive," Ren said softly as he settled comfortably on his side and pulled Janey against him.

Janey rested her head on the pillow and closed her eyes for a moment. It wasn't that she didn't want to please him; it was just that she had a deeper desire to get to know Ren the person as much as Ren the lover.

"Have you got any family?" Janey asked quietly.

"None alive. My parents died in an accident when I was nearly seventeen. I lived with my Gran for six months but she wasn't well so Brad's parents offered me their spare room for as long as I needed it. I stayed with Brad, his parents and three sisters until I finished High School the following year," Ren said quietly.

"Brad's got sisters?" Janey asked surprised.

"Yeah. One older and two younger," Ren supplied the information quietly.

"And you haven't got any close family," Janey said quietly.

"Brad's like a brother to me - has been since the first day of kindergarten." Ren said evenly.

"And Matty and Brent are like cousins?" Janey hazarded a guess.

Ren thought about it for a moment and then gave a soft laugh, "Yeah, guess they are." He said quietly before asking, "So what are you going to call me? Gabe, Gabriel or keep calling me Ren?"

Janey was silent for a few moments as she considered the question. She wasn't that surprised to find that she was already thinking of him as Gabriel.

"Hmmm, probably be Gabriel. You have been my guardian angel, and don't let it go to your head!" Janey chastised with a faint laugh as she buried her face against his shoulder in sudden embarrassment.

"Don't worry, I won't. My thoughts about you have been far from pure right from the start," Ren said huskily.

Janey cast her mind back to the first time she had seen Ren. She remembered how he had told her that anytime she got tired of being with Hawk she was welcome to ride around on his bike with him. Knowing what she knew now she realised it had been a statement of his interest in her. At the time she had been struck by the green colour of his eyes and how they had looked kind. She hadn't been mistaken.

"Gabriel?" Janey said quietly.

"Hmmm," Ren responded loving the sound of his name on her lips.

"When my period is finished, and ... and we have sex again we ... we need to use condoms or something," Janey said faintly.

Ren felt as if his heart stopped beating for a second before restarting with a painful thump.

"You and the cop are trying for a baby aren't you," it came out sounding sad not an accusation.

"He wants a baby, a playmate for Nicky but I don't want another child yet. Not now. I got to sort this mess between us out." Janey said softly. The thought of Ren's child passed through her mind and a wave of tenderness washed over her as the image of a blonde baby with green eyes filled her mind.

"I got to get this right," Janey mumbled to herself unaware that Ren heard her.

Ren remained motionless where he lay with Janey in his arms. The possibility that Janey could end up with Adam and they could have a child burnt like acid in his stomach. He squeezed his eyes tightly shut against the tears that welled beneath his lids and prayed that he would have enough time with her to show her how much he loved her.

"Yeah, I'll use condoms. What we got is too precious to mess up," Ren said quietly.

* * * * *

Janey hesitated before getting out of her car and releasing Nicky from his child seat. She grabbed the over night bag that had his needs in it then headed for the front of her Parents' house. The front light was on and Janey had no trouble seeing to walk up the front steps.

Her parents were in the kitchen enjoying a late cup of coffee and her two brothers were watching the sports section of the news when she walked in.

"You're a bit late getting home aren't you?" Robbie asked critically as he glanced up.

James glanced at Robbie with a frown about to tell him off when Janey spoke, "I am an adult Robbie. I am over eighteen and able to stay out as long as I like," She told him firmly.

"What about Mum and Dad? They have been worrying about you, waiting for you to get home," Robbie retorted.

"I phoned them and let them know when I would be home," Janey said and glanced at the clock that sat on the tv set. "And sorry to disappoint you, but I am home a quarter of an hour earlier than I said I would be."

"Yeah, shut up Robbie," James said before turning his attention back to the tv.

"What I mean is Janey should be taking things steady with this Renford guy," Robbie said tightly.

"You mean Gabriel?" Janey asked as she set Nicky down on his feet and watched him head for his fold out foam lounge.

"Janey I know you know this guy from before, but how well do you know him? I'm not saying don't have anything to do with him just take it slow, take time to really get to know him before you get involved with him," Robbie said evenly.

"What your brother is saying makes good sense," Jim said from the doorway.

Janey glanced at her father and saw her mother beside him with a worried frown on her face.

"I'm getting the rest of my things out of the car," Janey snapped then headed back outside.

When Janey came back inside with the rest of the bags from the car Nicky was sitting on the lounge between her parents while they watched tv. She headed to her room to put her belongings away and returned to the lounge room after a short period of time.

"I guess it's time for Nicky's bath," Marina said.

"Brad gave him a bath just before tea. He looks after him as much as possible when they're together," Janey said and made herself comfortable in her favourite chair.

"James has said that Brad is all for taking responsibility for his child," Jim said quietly from where he sat.

"So when are we going to meet Nicky's father?" Robbie asked.

"Brad was at Nicky's Christening if you remember! He was one of the guys that you tried to keep from coming into the church!" Janey snapped angrily.

Nicky turned his attention to Janey and his bottom lip quivered as he picked up on her anger. 

"It's alright Nicky," James soothed as he got to his feet and picked his nephew up.

Janey glanced at Nicky and forced her anger down, she walked over to pat him on the back and then stroke his hair back off his forehead.

"It's okay darling," Janey said softly, "your Daddy and his friends are good people aren't they." 

She glanced towards her parents then at her brothers, "Once you get to know them you'll see I'm right," She told them levelly.

"I'll stand by what you said, but I don't know Gabe Renford," James said quietly.

Janey swallowed her frustration as she realised her brother was right. Her family didn't know Gabriel and therefore were concerned for her.

"So when did you break up with Adam?" Robbie asked.

Janey looked at her brother confused for a moment, and then she remembered she was engaged to Adam. She realised with some shock that she had not thought of Adam once since deciding that she wanted to keep seeing Ren and see where that took her.

Janey looked away from her brother as she felt the warm tide rise in her face. She automatically felt for the engagement ring she had been wearing on her hand only to find her finger bare. She remembered putting the ring in her purse when she talked to 'Tanaya the morning after sleeping with Ren.

"I'll do that next time I see him. It's not a thing I want to do over the phone," Janey said softly.

"Well if it was me on the receiving end I'd rather the woman broke up over the phone rather than two timed me with some other bloke until she got around to telling me," Robbie said bluntly.

"It's not like that!" Janey denied hotly.

"That's how it'll seem to Adam," Robbie told her.

"You're just pissed off because Adam is your mate!" Janey accused angrily.

Nicky started crying and Marina lifted the boy into her arms before getting to her feet and leaving the room. Janey glanced after her mother and son before turning her attention back to Robbie.

"Butt out Robbie! I don't need your interference!" Janey said tightly.

"First off Adam is my colleague, not my friend, and secondly, I only said what I have because I happen to care about you - my sister," Robbie said with narrowed eyes.

Janey glared at her brother for a few moments. "Don't you think you can tell me what to do or interfere with the way I choose to live my life!" she warned him before turning and stalking from the room.

She found her mother in her parent's room sitting in her rocking chair rocking Nicky and reading him a storybook, Janey smiled as she noticed that it was Humpty Dumpty – Nicky's favourite story.

" ...Couldn't put Humpty together again. So they had scrambled eggs for breakfast, and the yolk was on Humpty, ha, ha, ha," Marina said ending the story with Nicky's favourite joke.

Nicky laughed happily and clapped his hands, "Yolk on Hump'y!" he laughed.

"The argument finished?" Marina asked lightly.

"I wish Robbie would butt out and mind his own business," Janey said annoyed.

"Yolk on Hump'y!" Nicky turned to Janey with excitement.

"Oh wow! The joke was on Hump-Tee," Janey said wide eyed as she pronounced the name correctly.

"Hump Tee, cuppa tea!" Nicky giggled and turned back to the book his grandmother held.

"Robbie is only trying to look out for you. He still blames himself for not making the Missing Persons Unit believe that you had not run away," Marina said gently.

"Yeah. Well it's enough for me ALL of you kept looking for me," Janey said and turned away.

* * * * *

'Tanaya walked towards the front door wondering who could be calling this morning. Brad was at work and Ren had gone to the shop to pick up a few things she needed urgently. He had only left five or so minutes ago plus he had his own key so it couldn't be him.

'Tanaya opened the door and the welcoming smile died on her lips as she recognised Janey's brother, the cop, along with Brad and Ren's parole officer.

"Yes what can I do for you?" 'Tanaya asked coldly as she eyed the brother.

"Ms Redwolf?" The parole officer asked.

"Yes that's me," 'Tanaya confirmed.

"It's nothing bad Ms Redwolf, just some paperwork that needs to be completed if your partner and his friends want to be able to go to Nicholas' birthday party in two weeks," Robbie said quietly.

"I don't see how that has anything to do with either you or the parole officer here!" 'Tanaya snapped and went to shut the door.

Robbie moved quickly to put his foot in the way so she was unable to slam the door in their faces.

'Tanaya grunted softly with the effort to slam the door before looking down to see what was preventing the door from closing.

"AVO's were placed on all four men during the court case. These are still in effect and while Janey can bring Nicky here to see his father, the other three men are not supposed to be within three hundred metres of her nor are they to approach where she lives," Robbie said, he watched as what he had said sunk into 'Tanaya's understanding.

"You bastards!" 'Tanaya swore at them.

"Ms Redwolf we have the paperwork necessary to submit to a Judge and get these orders amended," the parole officer said quietly, "Mr Wilkinson here has informed me that his sister wants to invite all four men to her son's birthday party. The church situation was different, public area and all."




Halo Ch. 07



'Tanaya stood leaning against the door uncertainly as she thought about what she had been told. Finally she spoke up. "Gabriel Renford will be back in ten minutes or so. If you want to wait out here on the veranda to speak to him you can."

Robbie removed his foot from the doorway and she slammed the door in their face. He shook his head with a rueful grin. He had to admit he admired the woman's courage.

"We might be best to wait out here for Gabe Renford. He'll be able to let me know how to contact Matthews, Winter and Stanton," Warren Evans the parole officer said as he led the way to the footpath out the front of the lawn.

"I have to warn you that you may get a visit from Senior Detective Adam Saunders. Unless I miss my guess he'll try to stir up some trouble for your clients," Robbie said quietly.

"That warning is late. As soon as Saunders found out Stanton was here he paid me a visit. And then again after the christening he phoned me. At home, out of normal hours," Evans said sounding far from pleased.

"Sounds like you don't have much time for him," Robbie said quietly.

"How much time did the sleaze give your sister before making his moves on her? She's not the first case victim he has become involved with," Evans stated.

Robbie was about to ask some more questions when he spotted Ren walking towards them watching them intently. Even over the distance separating them it was obvious that he had recognised his parole officer and had sped his pace up.

Robbie saw the instant when the blond guy walking towards them recognised him. His eyes narrowed suspiciously and he glanced around quickly.

"Officer Evans," Ren said with a nod as he halted in front of them.

"Hallo Gabe. We got some paper work for you to look over and sign. If we can go inside we can over it in more detail," Evans said calmly.

Ren glanced at Robbie before looking back at Evans, "Yeah, inside is more private."

Ren walked past the two men and opened the front door with his key. He carried the three bags of shopping to the kitchen where 'Tanaya was and placed them on the table. He saw at a glance that 'Tanaya was upset and knew it was most likely because of the presence of Janey's brother. He had to admit he was cautious himself.

"Ren can I speak to you for a moment?" 'Tanaya asked as she sent Robbie an angry glare.

"Can it wait until this is attended to or is it urgent?" Ren asked as he motioned towards Evans and Robbie.

"It's urgent!" 'Tanaya snapped before heading out of the room as she motioned for Ren to follow her.

Ren followed 'Tanaya up the hallway out of earshot of the kitchen and stopped when she turned to face him.

"They're saying that you, Brent and Matty aren't allowed within a certain distance of Janey because of some court orders!" 'Tanaya said worriedly.

"Shit! Okay calm down. I guess I'm about to find out all about it," Ren said tightly. He gave 'Tanaya a brief smile before turning and heading back to the kitchen.

Robbie was looking out the kitchen window where it overlooked the backyard and stood with his back to the door as Ren walked into the room, Evans was standing by the corner of the table sorting through some papers he had placed on the table top.

Robbie turned around and faced Ren as he stopped near Evans.

"I'm Robbie Wilkinson, Janey's oldest brother. I'm aware that Janey intends to invite Stanton, Winters, Matthews and yourself to Nicky's first birthday party the Friday after next. Because of the No – contact court orders that are in place only Stanton would possibly be able to get away with attending. To make things easier for my sister I went over the court orders and suggested amendments to the original orders. If you'd like to look the suggested changes over I can explain them to you and how they affect the orders now in place," Robbie said evenly.

Ren didn't say a word as he reached for the top sheet of paper. He read it silently before looking at Robbie mildly surprised.

" 'Tanaya, come look at this. It's Brad's court order," Ren said softly.

'Tanaya sent Robbie an angry glare before moving to Ren's side to read the writing on the page after a few minutes she glanced at Ren. "Does that mean what I think it does?"

"Bradley Stanton will be allowed limited contact with Janey. He'll be able to call her to make arrangements for seeing Nicky or matters to do with Nicky as well as being able to visit Janey's place of residence for the same reasons. I know our parents wish to get to know him as he is the father of their grandchild and as such will always be part of Nicky's life." Robbie said then motioned at the papers on the table, "On the other three orders I suggested amendments that waive the distance requirement as long as there is no harassment or intimidation. Written invitations to visit would be needed."

'Tanaya glanced at Ren not sure what to make of Robbie's information.

Ren glanced at Evans then at Robbie, "How long have you been aware of the conditions of the present orders?" he asked.

"Since Stanton's release," Robbie admitted.

"It's a wonder you didn't tell your mate - Adam!" 'Tanaya snapped without looking at Robbie.

" Shhh 'Tanaya," Ren said quietly before glancing at Robbie and Evans, "what has to be done to get these amendments made?"

"You, Stanton, Winters and Matthews need to read and sign the paperwork if you agree to the amendments, then it goes before a Judge. The Judge in Lennox Heads court is willing to look at the amendments if they are ready for his court tomorrow first thing after lunch," Evans said.

"If you can handle it from here Warren I'll get going," Robbie said as he shifted his feet uncomfortably and rubbed at his left side unconsciously.

"I think I can take it from here," Evans agreed with a quick glance at Robbie.

"I'll catch you after lunch then," Robbie said before nodding at 'Tanaya, " Ms Redwolf, Renford. I can see myself out."

Robbie had nearly reached the kitchen door before Ren spoke.

"Wilkinson, did you know your mate wants Janey to have another baby?" Ren asked quietly.

Robbie turned around to face Ren, his face infused with colour. 

"Yeah, Janey told Brad they were trying for a baby before the Christening, before Ren got out on parole." 'Tanaya said with a faint smile. She watched Robbie's mouth tighten until his lips were little more than faint lines.

"Oh he does, does he?" Robbie nearly snarled before turning sharply and heading for the front door.

Outside Robbie stopped and took several deep breaths to try and calm the anger he felt about what he had just heard; once he was calm he headed towards his car. He planned to phone his commanding officer and ask some questions about Adam, his background and any prior involvement with victims of crime.

* * * * * 

Janey sat on the lounge chair with her feet curled up underneath her as she carefully stitched the small rip in Nicky's sweater sleeve. The shrill ring of her phone sounded and she reached for it absently.

"Hallo," Janey said distractedly as she double-checked she had repaired the damage to the sweater.

"Hallo Darling. I been thinking about you and thought I would call you," Adam's voice sounded distant over the phone.

Janey swung her feet to the floor and sat up straight abruptly. She put her mending aside and got to her feet. 

"Adam. I wasn't expecting a call," Janey said as she headed from the room. She was aware of her parents and Robbie looking her way as she left the room. Caro was in the kitchen as she passed through it and she glanced up but when she saw the mobile phone Janey held she didn't speak.

"I thought I'd surprise you," Adam said. His voice was slightly husky and he dropped his tone slightly before continuing, "I've really missed you the last few days, I'd love to see you but I only have one day free and it wouldn't be worth the trouble of flying up to see you for a few hours before having to return."

Janey sat down on the back steps as she listened to Adam talking; she frowned slightly at his last sentence.

"They working you hard are they," Janey asked quietly.

"Yeah, it's been pretty full on," Adam said.

Janey tilted her head as she thought she caught a slight sound of music in the background. "Is that music I hear," she asked.

"Yeah," Adam said shortly. "I'm in my hotel room watching some show on tv."

"And you got bored and thought you'd call me," Janey teased with a smile in her voice. It was so easy to fall into the normal way of their relationship.

"I've missed you and I thought it would be nice to hear your voice. How have you been? You've been well, not sick or anything," Adam asked.

Janey closed her eyes and lowered her head slightly as what he was truly asking sunk in. She was glad he wasn't here at the moment.

"I've been pretty good, but I got my period several days back," Janey said quietly.

"Oh," Adam said softly and was silent for several long awkward moments. "well these things can take time."

"Adam, I'm not ...ummm ... I ... ummm..." Janey stammered not sure how to say what she knew she should say to him.

"Don't worry about it Sweetheart. We'll keep trying for a baby," Adam said softly, gently.

Janey closed her eyes and picked the bridge of her nose between her finger and thumb as she tried to find the words she knew she should say.

"I ... I ... I'm sorry I gotta go bye," Janey said with a rush and disconnected the call shakily.

She sat in the faint moonlight trying to work out how she was going to tell Adam that she was seeing someone else. She realised with a start that she had barely spared a thought for Adam; her head had been full of thoughts of Gabriel. A soft smile curved her lips at the thought of him and she hugged herself as warm pleasure filled her threatening to spill over at the first thought of him.

The mobile phone buzzed in her hand as it rang once again and Janey glanced down at the illuminated screen. Adam. 

"No. I don't want to talk to him," Janey thought as she ignored the shrill summons of the phone.

Finally the phone was silent and Janey sighed deeply as she folded her arms around her up drawn knees. She rested her forehead on her knees as she tried to block all thoughts from her mind.

She started as the back door screen door banged shut behind someone as they came out of the house; she turned her head and looked over her shoulder to see whom it was.

"I didn't know you were out here Janey," Marina said as she carried a bucket of kitchen scraps to the compost bin.

"I needed some fresh air to clear my mind," Janey said. As soon as the words left her lips she realised they were true, she needed to clear her mind.

"Is something bothering you?" Marina asked as she sat down beside her daughter.



Halo Ch. 08



Hallo to all,

Just a quick note to explain a term in this chapter for those who have not come across it before, Smoko. A term often used to describe morning and/or afternoon tea break as smokers use it as a smoke break, hence the term Smoko.

Mygypsy.

*

The ring of her mobile phone interrupted Janey and she frowned as she glanced at it. Seeing the familiar number but not being able to place it, she shook her hands dry and reached for the phone.

"Hallo. Janey speaking," she said as she looked at the potatoes she was supposed to be peeling for tea.

"Hi Janey. How are you and Nicky doing?" The deep voice was instantly familiar and Janey frowned for a moment before placing the voice.

"Brad!" Janey glanced around the kitchen nervously; she knew he wasn't allowed to contact her. "Is something wrong? You're not supposed to call me remember!"

"Your brother the cop, he took it on himself to get some changes made to certain AVO's." Brad said sounding very pleased, " Now I can ring in reference to Nicky. So how is Nicky?"

"Nicky's fine, he's good. Give me a moment, I'm going to go find my brother and kick his butt for not telling me about this!" Janey said and headed through the house looking for Robby.

Janey found her brother in his bedroom with their mother checking the tape on his ribs, which had been injured the previous week at work.

"Robbie! You should have told me what you were doing with Brad's AVO!" Janey exclaimed as she walked into the room.

Robbie looked towards the door startled, a slow smile grew on his face and he shrugged lightly.

"Janey, hey Janey!" Brad called in her ear.

"Yeah what?" Janey asked with a slight frown as he distracted her.

"Your brother hasn't only made things better for me but has made things a lot more comfortable for Ren, Matty and Brent as well," Brad said calmly.

"Robbie!" Janey yelled at her brother in happy exasperation forgetting to take the phone away from her face and treating Brad to a loud yell in his ear. Realising immediately what she had done she held the phone out from her face and grimaced at it before putting it to the side of her face once more.

"Err, sorry Brad," Janey said ruefully.

Brad chuckled even though her yell had been quite loud in his ear, "Please try not to do it again."

"Okay. So what are you and 'Tanaya doing?" Janey asked as she walked away from her brother's room. She realised there was no use in trying to talk to Robbie while she was on the phone to Brad as she would probably only end up yelling in Brad's ear again.

"At the moment we are sitting back celebrating," Brad said with a smile in his voice.

"Would it be okay if Nicky and I came over to visit?" Janey asked.

"That would be great. Where is Nicky by the way?" Brad asked.

"Nicky is outside helping his Aunty Caro water the garden. Translated he is trying to catch the water as it comes out of the hose," Janey said with a laugh.

"That's my boy," Brad laughed in admiration.

"I'll just get our things together and come on over right away if that's okay," Janey said.

"If you want, you can stay the night. I'd love to have Nicky," Brad said quietly.

"Okay then. But if he wakes up in the middle of the night you're getting up to check on him," Janey laughed softly knowing Brad would welcome the chance to have Nicky sleep over.

"It's a deal," Brad said laughing.

With a few more words they ended the conversation and Janey headed outside to find her sister and Nicky. She found them near the veggie garden. Caro was showing Nicky the butterflies that had found one of the many flowering bushes.

"Hi, how is it going?" Janey asked as she walked up.

"Nicky are you going to tell Mummy what we found?" Caro asked the little boy.

Nicky turned his head towards his mother - his eyes were wide with wonder. "Fufferf'y! Fufferf'y!" Nicky said softly in awe.

"Have you found some butterflies?" Janey asked gently.

Nicky nodded his head vigorously before turning his attention back to the butterflies.

"Who want's to see Daddy?" Janey asked.

Nicky turned towards his mother eagerly and lifted his arms up to her.

"Is Adam back? I thought he said he'd be away from a few weeks," Caro said as she watched Janey pick up Nicky.

"Dadam! Dadam!" Nicky chanted excitedly.

"Nicky, Daddy, not Dadam. Daddy," Janey said slowly. She watched as her son frowned for a few seconds then let out a delighted cry.

"Daddaddaddad," Nicky began calling excitedly.

Caro shook her head but knew better than to say anything more. Janey had already made it very clear to her that Nicky would continue to see his father who Caro believed was a no-hoper thug.

* * * * *

Brad was waiting on the front veranda when Janey drove up; she smiled as she saw the excitement on his face.

"G'day!" Brad said as he came around to her side of the vehicle.

"G'day yourself. You look mighty pleased with yourself," Janey said with a wide smile.

"Being able to ring and check on Nicky makes a huge difference. I don't feel like I'm in his life on sufferance any more," Brad said as he lifted Nicky from his car seat.

"Dadam! Dadam! Dadam!" Nicky called loudly.

Brad glanced at Janey with a frown; she gave him a grimace of apology and shrugged.

"My sister inadvertently said the 'other' word and Nicky got the wrong idea," Janey said sounding none to pleased.

"Hey Nicky," Brad said as Nicky focused on his face.

Nicky immediately launched into an animated and excited chatter as he grasped Brad's face in his little hands.

"Oh you're here already!" 'Tanaya said as she walked out of the house and out to the car.

"Yeah. Nicky had not gotten hold of the hose for once this afternoon," Janey said as she got both her overnight bag and Nicky's from the car.

'Tanaya noticed the way Janey kept trying to glance around unobtrusively and smiled.

"Ren's out in the garage with Brent and Matty, they're doing an oil change on the 4wd," 'Tanaya told her.

"Oh. Okay," Janey said trying to sound casual.

"Let's get inside. It's starting to get cool." 'Tanaya said as she reached for Nicky.

Brad glanced at Janey to see how she was reacting to 'Tanaya holding Nicky but she was busy juggling overnight bags and Brad reached to help her.

"So exactly what are the changes Robbie had made to your AVO?" Janey asked as she followed Brad towards the house.

Brad quickly and clearly outlined the changes Robbie had suggested and the judge had agreed to. He also outlined the changes to the orders for Matty, Brent and Ren.

"Looks like Robbie has done something helpful for once," Janey said happily.

"Your brother a bit of a problem usually?" 'Tanaya asked curiously.

Janey glanced at 'Tanaya and noticed the way Nicky was cuddling into the other woman's body and laying his head on her shoulder.

"You got your 'Nay have you Nicky?" Janey asked with a smile.

"Naynay," Nicky said fondly as he wrapped his little arms around 'Tanaya's neck.

"Can I cuddle too?" Brad asked as he stepped close. He put his arms around both 'Tanaya and Nicky but when he went to rest his head against 'Tanaya's Nicky frowned and pushed at his father.

"No! No! My Nay!" Nicky exclaimed and burst into tears.

"Hey Nicky, it's alright little Buddy," Brad tried to soothe his son but Nicky would have none of it and clung to 'Tanaya as he sobbed loudly.

"Nicky's just tired Daddy," Janey said with a rueful smile but made no attempt to take him from 'Tanaya.

"Why don't you go see how they're going out with the vehicle and Janey and I will see if we can get some food into this little fellow before he falls asleep," 'Tanaya said calmly as she patted Nicky's back gently.

"Okay," Brad said nodding somewhat stunned by his son's behaviour and headed out towards the backdoor.

'Tanaya carried Nicky into the kitchen and glanced around helplessly for a few moments.

"The vegetables are cooked and ready to serve. And there's some savoury mince keeping warm in the oven," 'Tanaya said and collected a plastic plate out of the cupboard with one hand.

Janey checked the food on the stove and when 'Tanaya handed her the plate she dished up a small amount of food for Nicky.

"I can dish up more if he eats it all," Janey said as she carried the plate to where 'Tanaya had seated herself and was trying to get Nicky to sit in her lap.

Nicky sat on 'Tanaya's lap and allowed her to feed him. Half way through his food he turned his head away and buried his face against her chest.

"He's not going to eat anymore," Janey said watching her son.

"Has he eaten enough?" 'Tanaya worried as she put the spoon down and wiped his face with the face cloth Janey got from the rail by the sink and dampened with water before handing it to her.

"It'll have to do 'cause he'll be asleep in a few minutes," Janey said as she watched Nicky bury his face against 'Tanaya's neck and cuddle against her.

Several moments later a soft snore came from the vicinity of 'Tanaya's neck and she looked at Janey startled.

Janey sat down in a chair and let out a soft sigh, "If you wait a few minutes to put him in the cot he won't wake up," Janey said quietly.

"There's fresh coffee in the percolator if you want a cup," 'Tanaya said softly.

"I'm right thanks," Janey said with a half smile.

Janey turned her head and listened as footsteps came into the house from the backyard. Some instinct told her it wasn't Ren and she turned her head to look towards the door.

"We got the oil change done. Ren and Brad are checking the spare tire before they come inside," Matty said as he paused in the doorway. He grinned at Janey and then looked at Nicky where he was asleep against 'Tanaya. "Oh, Nicky's asleep," Matty said sounding disappointed.

"Go wash up in the bathroom and make sure you get all that grease off before you wipe your hands on my towels," 'Tanaya warned as she glanced at his greasy hands and forearms.

Janey watched as Matty hurried off to do as 'Tanaya had told him and then she glanced at 'Tanaya. "How do you make them do as you tell them?" Janey asked amused.

"Matty is easy. If he doesn't do as he's told I don't cook him his slices for smoko," 'Tanaya said with a smile.

"So for Matty it's true the way to his heart is through his stomach," Janey said with a soft laugh.

"Brent, Ren and Brad are old and wise enough to listen when I tell them to do something," 'Tanaya said as she carefully got to her feet without jostling Nicky.

"I hope you're not filling Janey's head with nonsense," Brad said lightly from the doorway. He sent Janey a good-natured grin before turning his attention back to 'Tanaya.

"You know Janey, Brad just might not be smart enough to listen to me after all," 'Tanaya said lightly with a wink at Janey.

"Behave yourself woman," Brad said as he walked over to drop an affectionate kiss on her cheek and then look down at his son where he nestled against her neck and shoulder.

"Let's put this little guy to bed," 'Tanaya said with a smile at Brad.

"I had been hoping to have some time with him tonight but if he's tired, then he's tired," Brad said a touch sadly.

"There's a good chance he will wake up just as you want to go to bed when he goes to sleep this early," Janey said dryly.

"Sounds like the voice of experience talking," Ren said from the doorway.

Janey glanced his way and blushed when she noticed the way he was eyeing her body.

"Finished already?" 'Tanaya asked as she eased past him on her way to the bedroom.

Brad followed 'Tanaya from the room leaving Ren and Janey alone.

"Hey, how you going?" Ren asked as he walked over to where Janey sat.

"Great, and how are you?" Janey asked with a shy smile.

"Real good. Surprised as hell by what your brother did but good," Ren said then lent down to brush his lips over hers lightly.

Janey groaned faintly at the soft contact and opened her lips in silent invitation. She felt his tongue lightly trace her bottom lip before sneaking between her lips to gently sweep across the tip of her tongue before slipping deeper to taste the recesses of her mouth.

Ren broke off the kiss and lifted his head slowly; he looked down at Janey's face and watched as she opened her eyes reluctantly. He smiled at her and kissed the tip of her nose before straightening up.

"Are you staying the night or going back to your parents' place?" Ren asked softly.

"Staying. And we ... we can..." Janey broke off what she was saying in embarrassment as she heard footsteps approaching the doorway.

"I should have know that was why you were in so all fired of a hurry to get inside," Brent said as he halted in the doorway. "Hi Janey." 

"Hi Brent," Janey said with a slight smile before glancing up into Ren's face and looking away with a slightly embarrassed smile as he met her look with a smile.

"Brad and 'Tanaya got the ankle biter have they?" Brent asked smoothly.

"Where's Nicky gone?" Matty asked as he appeared in the doorway beside Brent.

"Nicky fell asleep after eating," Janey said with a faint grimace.

"And Brad gets to look after him if he wakes in the middle of the night," Ren said with a grin as he heard Brad and 'Tanaya walking towards the kitchen.

Brent and Matty moved into the kitchen heading for the coffee pot as they heard the others approaching.

"Not taking my name in vain are you?" 'Tanaya asked as she walked into the kitchen ahead of Brad.

"He's just volunteered you and Brad for babysitting duties if the ankle biter wakes up in the middle of the night," Brent said with a grin. "Guess he has plans of his own,"

"Ankle biter? Nicky isn't an ankle biter! He'll be a knee capper," Brad said with a laugh.

"Nicky will be the perfect little gentleman thank you!" Janey said tightly.

"That's right, we wont let you guys turn him into a thug," 'Tanaya said with a grin.

"Just as long as you pair don't turn him into a wimp or a Mummy's boy," Brad pretended to growl against 'Tanaya's neck.

"We can teach him to play footy," Ren said as he glanced at Janey.

"Robbie and James are already teaching him to do that. James' first present for him was a football," Janey said dryly.

"Good value," Brad said approvingly.

"When are we going to eat?" Matty asked.

"Everything is ready to put on the table so everyone make sure they've washed their hands," 'Tanaya ordered.

"Yes Ma'am," Brad growled and slapped 'Tanaya lightly on the arse before heading for the door.

"You'd want to leave," 'Tanaya said pretending to be annoyed.

Brent and Ren headed for the bathroom as well leaving 'Tanaya, Janey and Matty in the kitchen.

"Set the table would you Matty," 'Tanaya said as she walked to the stove and began to check the various saucepans on the stovetop.

Janey quickly cleared away the remains of Nicky's meal and watched as Matty set the table with ease.

"Can you pass the salt and pepper and sauces from the sideboard Janey?" Matty asked as he glanced her way.

"Sure thing," Janey said with a smile and reached for the condiments.

'Tanaya was dishing out the last of the food when the three men returned. Plates were handed out to everyone and they all sat down at the table and turned their attention to their food.

* * * * *

Janey sat cuddled up to Ren's side as they watched tv along with Brad, 'Tanaya, Matty and Brent. The meal they had shared had had a celebratory air and everyone was hanging around loath to bring the celebrations to an end.

"We having a b-b-q this weekend?" Matty asked as he glanced towards Brad and 'Tanaya.

"I'm heading off to Sydney first thing in the morning," Ren said with a quick glance at Janey.

"And I'm going too. I haven't been there for a few years and I want to catch up with some people I know," 'Tanaya said brightly.

"When will you get back?" Janey asked Ren softly.

"I'll be in Sydney for a week not counting the day to drive down there and a day to drive back," Ren said, " so we'll be back next Thursday evening,"

"You won't be here this weekend?" Janey asked disappointed.

Ren pressed a quick kiss to her lips before raising his head to watch her face as he answered, "No I won't be here, will you miss me?"

"Of course I'll miss you!" Janey exclaimed and buried her face against his chest.

"You'll still bring Nicky to visit me won't you?" Brad asked as he glanced at Janey and Ren.

"Yeah, Nicky enjoys his visits," Janey said with a faint frown.

"Good," Brad nodded, "With 'Tanaya gone for over a week I'll be climbing the walls," 

"Who'll cook my cakes for work?" Matty asked with a worried frown.

"Trust you to worry about your stomach," Brent said with a laugh.

"I've done up an extra batch of cooking for you guys and put it in the deep freezer," 'Tanaya said as she settled herself comfortably on Brad's lap. She put her arms around his neck and pulled his head down for a long kiss, when he finally lifted his head he reached up above his head to turn the room's light out.

Ren lowered his head and nuzzled against Janey's cheek. She turned her head and his lips brushed against hers several times before he opened his mouth slightly and covered her lips with his.

Janey opened her mouth as his tongue traced the seam of her lips, she felt him shift slightly and he gathered her into his arms more snugly as he tasted her mouth delicately. A soft sigh of pleasure left her lips as Ren took his time kissing her gently.

Janey blinked dazedly when Ren lifted his head and turned his attention back to the tv show. She licked her lips and looked at the screen without being aware of what was happening in the program.

Ren watched the show for a few moments before turning his head to kiss Janey once again. He felt her lips part eagerly beneath his and he had to force himself not to lift her onto his lap.

"Want to go to the bedroom?" Ren asked softly as he nuzzled just below her ear.

"Yes," Janey's reply was a breathless whisper.

Ren got to his feet and held a hand out to Janey. She didn't hesitate as she placed one hand in his and let him help her to her feet. He kept hold of her hand as he led her towards the hallway.

"I thought you said you wanted to watch this program," Brad said as they walked past the chair he sat in with 'Tanaya on his lap.

"I bet you weren't exactly watching it either," Ren said with a hint of a laugh in his voice.

Brad grunted softly but made no further remark as Janey followed Ren up the hallway to his room. She stopped just inside the room and watched as he closed the door behind them.

"Do you want the light on or off?" Ren asked softly as he paused with his hand on the light switch.

"Can you turn the bedside lamp on low?" Janey asked as she glanced towards where the bed stood. The lamp sat on a small bedside unit on the side she usually slept on when they were in the bed together.

Janey stood still in the dark room as she listened to Ren move to the bedside; there was a faint click and a soft light broke the darkness. She glanced at Ren's dark form beside the bed but with the light behind him she couldn't make out his expression.

"Shall we?" Ren asked when Janey was motionless for several long moments.

Janey nodded and moved close to him. She slid her hands up his chest and across the top of his shoulders. He lowered his head and their lips met as she stood on tiptoe; he kissed her deeply as he gathered her in his arms.

Ren groaned against Janey's mouth as he felt her press her body against his. He was already painfully aroused and the soft press of her breasts against his chest only served to send another rush of blood to his groin.

"How about we take this to the bed?" Ren asked huskily as he pulled his lips from hers.

Janey gasped for breath as she tried to make sense of what he had just said. She didn't resist when he gently urged her towards the bed and hurriedly turned around to crawl onto the bed when she felt the mattress press against the back of her legs.




Halo Ch. 08



Ren exhaled sharply when Janey paused to look over her shoulder at him as she crawled up the bed on her hands and knees. He began to remove his shirt with jerky movements as she smiled at him and licked her lips enticingly.

Janey turned around and sat up as she pulled her top off over her head; she watched as Ren's gaze dropped to her lace covered breasts and reached behind her back to undo her bra. She smiled as he hurriedly shed his jeans and underwear then moved to the edge of the bed to reach for the waist of her jeans.

"Fuck!" Ren swore softly as he fumbled with the zipper and Janey laughed softly as she lay back without taking her gaze from his face.

"Take it easy Gabriel ... we got all night," Janey said breathlessly.

"The first time won't last long," Ren said huskily as he slid one hand into the front of her jeans and beneath her undies.

Janey gasped and opened her legs as his skilled fingers played in her curls momentarily before slipping between her moist folds. She moaned softly and pressed her hips against his hand as two of his fingers entered her wet and swollen passage.

"See ... you're ready for me even now," Ren groaned huskily as he leant down to kiss her hungrily.

Janey whimpered against his mouth and sucked his tongue as he thrust it into her mouth aggressively. She tried to pull his shoulders down closer so their bodies touched but he was already pulling away to continue to undress her.

He was unintentionally rough as he wrestled her jeans and underwear off her body and Janey gave a soft feminine laugh as she ran her hands across the top of his shoulders. She winced as the mobile phone in her jeans pocket hit her ankle on the way off; Ren immediately rubbed her ankle soothingly when she reached for it.

"Sorry," he said hoarsely.

"Put it on the bedside dresser so it doesn't get lost would you," Janey murmured as she eyed his broad muscular shoulders appreciatively.

Ren glanced down at her a moment before retrieving her mobile and placing it on the bedside unit.

Janey got her first good look at Ren's naked body and swallowed suddenly nervous as she saw how large and aroused he was.

'It's not the first time we've had sex. Ren won't hurt me, he's not Hawk ..." Janey told herself nervously.

Ren moved onto the bed and stretched out beside Janey. He leant over her and kissed her hungrily as he cupped one breast in his hand.

Janey closed her eyes as Ren kissed her and gave herself over to the flood of sensations his mouth and hand were creating. She moaned softly beneath his kiss as she wriggled to get closer to him. She felt him move his hand from her breast to the small of her back and pull her closer as he trailed kisses down the side of her neck.

"I gotta have you now," Ren whispered huskily just beneath her ear when he had worked his way back up her neck. He rolled away from her and reached for the foil packet on the bedside unit on his side of the bed, he tore it open with his teeth and rolled it onto his hard shaft quickly before turning back to her.

Janey felt a shiver of hunger spiral in her stomach when she saw the dark aroused look on Ren's face as he turned back to her. She smiled softly; elated she could rouse such passion in him.

"What's got you smiling?" Ren asked huskily as he moved over her body, his hips forcing her thighs further apart.

Janey gasped at the sensations as he moved his hips against hers without entering her. She skimmed her hands across his shoulders and down his arms enjoying the feel of his powerfully muscled body. She licked her lower lip as her breath came faster and she was unable to resist rocking her hips against his.

"This ..." Janey said breathlessly, "... us,"

"Like it do you?" Ren asked huskily as he halted his movements to grind his hips in a circle.

Janey gasped as she clutched his arms and pressed her hips against his hard as she could. She wriggled in desperation then pressed her mouth against his shoulder as she felt him enter her in one long slick thrust. She pulled her legs up and hooked her heels behind his thighs as he pressed deeply inside her and held still for a few moments to let her body adjust to his invasion.

Ren rolled onto his back taking Janey with him so that he lay beneath her. He wrapped both arms around her body and held her close for a moment before bringing one hand up to cup the back of her head and hold her head still so he could kiss her deeply.

Janey moaned against Ren's lips as he kissed her hard; he thrust his tongue into her mouth and she sucked it eagerly as he withdrew it only to thrust it into her mouth once again. She wriggled against his hips and began to move with him. She felt his other hand smooth down her spine as he pressed her body firmly against his.

"Hell you feel good!" Ren groaned as he pulled his mouth from hers, "So wet and tight."

A twinge of unease rippled through Janey but she pushed it down as she concentrated on the taste of his mouth and what his tongue was doing to her earlobe. She moaned with pleasure and ran one hand up his neck to run through the hair on his head.

Ren could feel the clench of her inner muscles each time he nearly withdrew only to plunge into her body once again. The soft whisper of her breath brushed against his neck and cheek as she whimpered and made faint little sounds of pleasure.

Feeling the need to be deeper inside her, more completely one with her he pressed one hand between her shoulder blades and pulled her hips hard against him with the other.

Ren was aware of the instant Janey tensed in his arms and then she was turning her face away from his suddenly no longer responding to him.

"Please don't, please don't!" Janey pleaded as she struggled to pull her arms between their bodies.

"Janey? What's wrong?" Ren asked as he forced himself to remain still and let her push away from him slightly.

Janey made a strangled sound against his throat and he could feel her trembling in his arms as she stopped struggling.

"What is it?" Ren urged softly.

"Your ... your hand ... you ..." She stammered shaking uncontrollably.

It only took an instant for Ren to realise that one of his hands was grasping the curve of her arse cheeks, his fingers resting on the crevice that contained the rosebud of her arse.

He immediately moved his hand up to the small of her back and began to move it in small soothing circles.

"I'm sorry Sweetheart, I'd never hurt you, I'm so sorry," Ren murmured softly against the top of her head. He could feel her relax slightly but she was still trembling.

"Gabriel," Janey breathed softly against his neck.

"Yeah it's me," Ren answered quietly realising she needed his reassurance. He continued to stroke her back in soothing strokes and circles. He noticed a lessening in her trembling and she let out a long sigh.

"Do you want to stop?" Ren asked softly even as his body demanded he continue to his release.

Janey turned her head and kissed the side of his cheek. He turned his head and she closed her lips over his. She moved her hips against him and felt his stomach tremble against hers before he started moving with her.

"I want a good memory, one to replace the bad," Janey whispered against his lips when she lifted her head.

"You sure? I can stop if you want," Ren said hoarsely even as he continued to move.

"I want you ... on top ... pushing me into the mattress ... showing how to feel like a woman ... your woman ..." Janey said breathlessly between pants as sensation threatened her control.

Janey gasped as Ren rolled her beneath him, then his weight was pressing her down. She opened her mouth to welcome his kiss and the feel of his hands on her body chased away the last of her fear as she felt his strength envelope her, protecting her at the same time as it overpowered her.

Janey sighed with pleasure then gasped as Ren changed the speed he was plunging into her body. She gasped again then grasped at his shoulders as he moved slowly. 

"How's that?" Ren managed to grunt softly.

"Good ... ahhh, it's not enough," Janey gasped with a whimper of desire.

Ren laughed softly and changed his movements so he was grinding his hips against hers in circles. He felt her body tense and then the ripple of her internal muscles as her orgasm hit her.

"Gabriel!" Janey half squealed as pleasure washed over her, then he was kissing her hard as he pounded into her body hard and fast.

A second orgasm followed the first and Janey pulled her lips from his as she gasped for air. Even as wave after wave of sensation flooded her mind she was aware of the incredible feeling of safety from being in his arms. Slowly she became aware of her surroundings once more, Ren's body was hard and heavy on hers but she enjoyed the feeling of him against her.

She raised one limp arm to caress his shoulder and Ren turned his head towards her.

"I'll move in a moment," he said still breathless.

"This feels good," Janey whispered before kissing him lightly on the lips.

His mouth opened beneath her touch and they kissed long and slow, a gentle exploration as they revisited the tastes and sensations of each other. Janey gave a soft moan of pleasure as she felt his cock stir within her and she moved her hips slightly trying to encourage a renewal of his interest.

"Steady on, " Ren groaned against her lips as he felt himself becoming hard once again. "We'll need a fresh condom if we continue."

Janey smiled mischievously up at him then tapped him lightly on the arse. "Well hurry up then," She said cheekily.

Ren buried his face in the curve of her neck and growled as he tickled her, Janey gasped and wriggled as she giggled softly.

"Minx!" Ren said lightly as he withdrew from her body and turned away to deal with the used condom.

Janey looked towards her phone as it rang. She reached for it and looked at the screen. It stopped ringing and she checked to see who had called but it said private number. It was the third missed call she saw with surprise. The ringing of the phone hadn't been able to intrude between her and Ren.

"Who was it?" Ren asked lightly.

"Dunno," Janey said as he began to trail kisses down over the back of her shoulders.

The phone rang as Janey went to put it on the bedside unit. She glanced at the screen with a frown and answered it when it showed private number once again.

"Hello," Janey said expecting to hear one of her parents.

"Why weren't you answering your phone? I have been trying to get in contact with you!" Adam snapped tightly on the other end of the phone.

Janey tensed and darted an uneasy glance over her shoulder at Ren.

"And why are you over there during the week? Isn't it bad enough you go there of a weekend?" Adam demanded.

Janey took a deep breath and sat up pulling the tangled sheet up over her breasts defensively.

"Adam let's not go into that now ..." Janey started to say but he cleared his throat angrily and she glanced towards Ren as she heard him move beside her.

Ren got off the bed and removed the fresh condom before pulling his jeans on; he turned and left the room as anger welled up inside him. He was not going to stay in the room while Janey talked to Adam on the phone, especially not when they had been in bed when the phone had rang.

Janey looked at the closed door with a worried frown. She became aware of Adam talking in her ear and she pulled her gaze from the door distractedly.

"Look I can't talk now Adam, I'll talk to you when you get back. Bye." Janey said and hung up abruptly. She turned the phone off then glanced around the dimly lit room before slipping from the bed and reaching for Ren's discarded shirt. She pulled it on and stood for a few moments hugging herself indecisively before heading for the door.

In the hallway she nearly bumped into Brad in the dark and gave a startled little gasp.

"Do you know where Ren is?" Janey asked faintly.

"He's out the back but he's madder than hell so it might be smart to give him a bit of space," Brad said quietly.

Janey hesitated for a moment as Brad went to the room he shared with 'Tanaya then she turned around and went back to the bedroom she had been in. She climbed into the suddenly cold and empty bed pulling the covers up around her chin to try to keep warm.

Janey was still awake and waiting anxiously when Ren returned and came into the room quietly. She lay motionless as she watched him looking around the floor for something.

"Are you looking for your shirt," Janey asked quietly.

"I didn't mean to wake you," Ren said gruffly. "I'll just grab a couple of things and go sleep on the lounge."

"Please don't be angry with me," Janey said miserably.

"There is not enough room in that bed for you, me and the cop boyfriend," Ren growled angrily.

"Please Gabriel, please," Janey begged quietly.

Ren felt something twist in his gut at the sound of tears in her voice; he realised he couldn't just walk out of the room and leave her upset.

"I'm sorry Janey but it wouldn't be smart for me to stay in here with you at the moment. I am madder then hell about you answering the call from him when we were in bed," Ren said tightly.

"I didn't know it was him. He had his number blocked - he knows I don't like talking to him when I'm here," Janey said then smothered a sob.

"I thought I could handle accepting what you offered but I can't handle stolen moments, being the dirty secret," Ren said and turned away.

"Don't go, please don't go," Janey sobbed openly.

Ren stopped, unable to walk away from her but unable to turn around and face her crying. He'd never been able to handle her crying and to know he had caused her tears was unbearable.

Unable to stand hearing her crying any longer he turned around and walked to the bed and sat down on the edge.

"Don't cry Blondie. Come on I'm here and I'm not leaving," Ren told her gently.

Janey sat up and reached for him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face against his chest. "Hold me. Please hold me," Janey begged brokenly.

Ren wrapped both arms around her silently and settled her against his chest. After several minutes he stretched out on the bed and pulled the covers up over her shoulders, gently he stroked the hair back off her face and brushed the tears from her cheeks. 

Janey laid in Ren's arms aware of the covers between their bodies, so little between them but yet a separation so immense. She moved her head back so that she could look up into his face in the dim light.

"Would you make love to me please," Janey asked softly.

"You don't know what you're asking of me," Ren said tightly.

"I want you to make love to me," Janey said as reached up to touch his lips with her fingertips.

"You might have taken his ring off your finger but he's still there in your head. When you answered that call it felt like he walked into the room and came between us," Ren said tightly.

Janey rolled onto her back away from the warmth of his body that seeped through the covers. She lay motionless staring up at the ceiling. How could she refute his claim when she herself had felt as if Adam had been a dark malevolent force intruding on her happiness.

"I ... Gabriel please," Janey said, her throat thick with unshed tears.

"I thought I could deal with the way things are Janey. I had it all worked out in black and white," Ren said hoarsely "but things aren't black and white. Just shades of grey and I'm finding I'm no good with the varying shades." His breath came out in a harsh sigh.

"There must be some way we can work this out," Janey pleaded.

"I don't want to stop being with you," Ren admitted.

"When we come in here or go anywhere to ... I turn my phone off until I break off things with Adam," Janey offered.

"That would make it easier for us to be together," Ren said softly.

Janey rolled towards him and looked at him where he lay facing her. She was once again acutely aware of the covers between them and she freed one hand to rest against his shoulder.

"How about you get back in bed?" Janey asked softly.

"You just want to have your wicked way with me," Ren said with a wry laugh.

Janey felt her nipples tighten into hard little buds and a tingle shiver between her thighs at the image his words provoked.

"Actually," Janey said then swallowed nervously, "actually I wouldn't mind if you had your way with me," her voice faded away to an inaudible whisper.

Ren felt his jeans suddenly start to become too tight as he tried to make out her expression. With the lamp behind her her face was in shadow and he was unable to catch a glimpse of her expression.

"So if we were to fool around what would you like me to do to you?" Ren asked softly hoping to find out what she wanted.

"I could go down on you if ..." Janey started but trailed off suddenly unsure of herself.

"What would you like me to do to you?" Ren asked in a whisper as he leant close to her.

Janey felt her body tighten, her breasts tingling and an empty ache starting deep between her thighs. Suddenly shy she shrugged without voicing a reply to his question. She glanced up towards his face but looked away with a thrill of anticipation when she found his face close to hers.

"You can tell me," Ren urged softly.

"I'd go down on you ... suck you off if you like," Janey said quietly.

"Hmmm, that sounds good but tell me what you enjoy," Ren coaxed as he leant close letting his words whisper over her lips.

Janey let her breath out in a trembling sigh when Ren failed to lower his head the last few millimetres and kiss her. She stroked the warm skin on his shoulder for a few moments before taking a deep breath, "I like it when you kiss me and then work your way down ... and you ... ummm ..." Janey broke off embarrassed.

"You like when I eat your pussy," Ren said softly, a hairs' breadth from the corner of her mouth.

"Yes," Janey responded in a breathless whisper.

Ren's lips were gentle as he brushed a light kiss against the corner of her mouth. A soft sigh came from him and he moved her head away even as she was turning towards him. A soft sound of complaint came from her and she pressed closer to his body.

"This conversation is making me hard," Ren whispered against her ear.

Janey laughed softly, breathlessly, "I'm wet. My breast are all tingly and ache to feel your mouth on them. I feel all hollow and achy between my legs. I need to feel your body against mine, bare skin against bare skin ..."

Ren groaned loudly, a ragged sound of need as he pulled at the covers between them roughly. His hands were slightly rough as he found her body beneath the t-shirt of his that she wore. He pulled at it impatiently and a soft laugh of satisfaction came from Janey when she realised he was just as desperate for skin on skin contact as she was.



Halo Ch. 09



Hi to all my readers. Sorry about the long delay between chapters but life got in the way in the form of the premature arrival of my new Granddaughter, who is now doing great.

*

Janey sat on the edge of the bench sipping her orange juice while Ren stood between her knees watching her as he drank his coffee. When she had finished her juice he took the glass from her hand and placed it on the bench beside his cup before lowering his head to kiss her deeply.

"Knock it off you pair. Didn't you get enough last night," Brad said with a grin as he glanced their way at Janey's throaty little moan of pleasure.

Ren stopped kissing Janey to lift his head and glance at Brad where he sat at the table feeding Nicky. "I'll be away for a week so I'm just storing up enough to last while I'm away," Ren said with a quick smiling look at Janey.

"Any excuse is better than none I suppose," 'Tanaya said with a laugh beside Brad.

"May I point out we weren't the ones who used all the hot water this morning?" Ren pointed out with a chuckle.

'Tanaya glanced at Brad with a slightly embarrassed smile as she remembered what they had done to forget about turning off the shower.

"Daddaddaddad!" Nicky chuckled around a mouthful of toast.

"You going to pick on Dad too are you?" Brad asked him with a smile.

"Yummy," Nicky said as he offered Brad the piece of toast he held in his hand.

Brad looked at the well-chewed edge and pretended to eat some before making sounds of enjoyment.

"Yum, yum," Brad agreed. He glanced at Ren and Janey and shook his head when he saw Ren was kissing her once again.

The shrill ring of Janey's mobile interrupted them and Ren lifted his head to glance at it where it sat beside them on the bench. He frowned and tossed it to Brad. "You answer that would you?"

Brad looked at the screen of the phone he had caught before holding it to his ear and pushing the call answer button.

"Hallo, Janey's phone, Brad speaking." His face was expressionless as he listened to the caller speaking.

"Janey's busy at the moment. I'll let her know you called and she can call you back at her convenience," Brad said evenly.

"Here I'll talk to them," Janey said holding her hand out towards Brad.

Brad glanced at Ren and shrugged as he handed Janey the phone. "I tried mate," Brad said apologetically.

"Hallo?" Janey said holding the phone to her ear.

"What are you doing still there?" Adam demanded angrily.

"I said I'd talk to you when you got back Adam," Janey forced herself to say evenly.

"I didn't sleep last night worrying about you being there. You can't trust them. How many times do I have to tell you that? And Renford still sees you as his property. You do realise that don't you? As long as you go there he'll try to sucker you back in ..." Adam continued worriedly.

"Adam, I've heard all this before. I'll talk ..." Janey broke into his tirade.

"Please go home where I know you'll be safe. I'm going out of my mind with worry ..." Adam's voice started to get louder and Janey held the phone out from her ear with an unhappy frown.

Seeing Janey's growing unease and distress Ren took the phone from her unresisting fingers and raised it to his ear as he cleared his throat noisily. "Excuse me Adam but I believe Janey said she will talk to you when you return ..." Ren paused to listen for a moment then frowned with annoyance. "... Yes I know exactly what she said to you last night because she was with me when she took your call. Speak to her when you return," Ren said in a commanding tone before ending the call and turning the phone off.

"How dare you!" Janey said angrily as she made a grab for her phone but Ren tossed it onto the table and trapped her on the bench with his arms and body.

"He was upsetting you," Ren said calmly.

"I don't care! That is my phone and he called to talk to me. Who do you think you are deciding who I can talk to?" Janey demanded angrily.

Ren felt the blood rush in his head as his anger built; the roar in his ears deafened him momentarily before he brought his temper back under control. He leant in close to Janey, his rage showing clearly on his face and deep in his eyes. 

Janey pushed at his shoulders, her own anger giving her courage against the rage on his face. Neither of them were aware of Brad and 'Tanaya taking Nicky from the room.

"I can talk to whoever I want to!" Janey declared angrily as her mind raced wildly. Is this where he starts treating me like Hawk did? He won't, he won't, Gabriel isn't Hawk. He's nothing like him.

Ren slammed his fists down onto the bench either side of her making her jump nervously without intending to, "You will not talk to Adam on the phone while we are together ..." 

"YOU DON'T OWN ME! YOU CAN'T TELL ME WHO I CAN AND CAN'T TALK TO!" Janey yelled in outraged fright.

Ren took a deep breath as he stepped back from where she sat on the bench. He watched as she slid from the bench and moved to put more space between them. Ren couldn't help but feel that once again another man was coming between them as he took a deep trembling breath.

"I'm sick of ..." his voice trailed off for a few seconds. "We're through. This relationship between us is poison," Ren said tightly before turning and walking from the kitchen.

Janey took a deep breath as she struggled to understand what had just happened. One moment Ren had been kissing her and then the next everything seemed to dissolve into an awful mess. She attempted to take a deep breath but her throat seemed to close over and something was pressing hard against her chest, so hard it hurt to breathe.

Tears filled her eyes but she brushed them from her lashes angrily with the back of her hand, unable to make sense of what her mind was trying to tell her.

Her hand hurt and she looked down to where she held her mobile clenched tightly in her fist; she turned her hand so she could see the screen and a horrible wave of grief washed over her. If only Adam hadn't called. If only she hadn't turned the phone on earlier this morning. If only she had told Adam it was over between them before this.

* * * * *

Janey folded the last of Nicky's clothes and put it in the bag she used when she took him to visit his father. She closed the zipper up and then sat on the bed disheartened. She'd had no energy, no drive to do anything since Ren told her it was over between them.

"Need a hand out to the car with anything?" Jim asked from the doorway.

Janey turned her head to look at her father. "I'm right thanks," she said quietly.

Jim gave his daughter one last thoughtful look before heading back the way he had come; he knew something was wrong but Janey had said nothing to either him or her mother.

Janey sighed and glanced around the room to make sure she had not missed anything before getting to her feet and reaching for her overnight bag and the bag of clothes for Nicky. She hefted them and carried them outside to her car, put them in the back and headed back inside for the remainder of the things she intended to take with them.

Marina was in the kitchen washing Nicky's face and hands with a washcloth when Janey walked into the room.

"Everything in the car?" Marina asked.

"Everything except for Nicky and myself," Janey said evenly.

"I'll carry Nicky to the car for you. That way I get a good-bye cuddle," Marina said with a smile and a kiss on Nicky's cheek.

"You want to go see Daddy?" Janey asked her son.

Nicky looked at her with wide eyes, " 'Nay? Dar? Unca Maddy?"

Janey felt a tightening in her chest as Nicky asked for Dar; it was what he had decided he was calling Ren. "Just Daddy this weekend kiddo," Janey said softly.

"'Nay, Bubbubbub, Dar, Bubba, Mum ..." Nicky began chatting away to the stuffed teddy he was holding.

Janey watched as her mother placed Nicky in his child-seat and buckled him in carefully. She kissed her mother's cheek and hugged her father before climbing into the car and putting her seatbelt on.

The drive to Brad and 'Tanaya's place was uneventful and Janey arrived an hour before Brad was due home from work. The key was where he had told her it would be and she let herself and Nicky into the house. With Nicky happily playing in the kitchen she set about peeling vegetables and putting meat out to defrost.

She had a fresh pot of coffee made and fresh scones she had made that morning on the table when she heard the front door open.

"Who's that Nicky?" Janey coaxed as she lifted her son and placed him in the hallway where he could see Brad as he walked towards them.

"Daddaddaddad!" Nicky chuckled in glee and ran towards him holding his arms up. 

"Hey there Nicky my boy!" Brad said happily as he swung Nicky up into his arms and hugged him close.

"Hi Brad," Janey greeted him with a smile.

"Hey Janey," Brad smiled and shifted Nicky to sit on his hip, "good to see you made it. I was a bit worried what happened between you and Ren might have upset things."

Janey looked down at her feet as she struggled to stop the tears that seemed to form for no reason this last few days.

"Nicky is your son. What happened won't come between you two," Janey said forcing calmness into her voice as she looked up.

"How are you and Adam doing?" Brad asked as he walked over and helped himself to a welcome mug of coffee.

"I told him Thursday morning that I was breaking up with him and I sent his ring back to him by courier the same day," Janey said quietly.

"Did you do that to try to fix things between you and Ren?" Brad asked levelly.

"I ... I finally did it ...I broke up with Adam, it was the right thing to do. I shouldn't have left Adam thinking things were fine between us. He kept calling me thinking it was good between us ... I just got to where I was having difficulty facing the mess I'd made. I thought he made me feel safe but I was just using him to hide behind. I used him as a barrier between me and the world," Janey said focusing on the wall past his shoulder, not meeting his eyes until she finished what she had to say.

"I'm glad you could see that for yourself," Brad said gently.

"Yeah well better late then never I suppose," Janey said unhappily and turned away.

"Bickie, bickie," Nicky insisted and reached towards the container on the table.

"Is it okay for Nicky to have some of whatever you got there?" Brad asked.

Janey glanced at the container on the table and smiled, "Of course. They're only date scones but he loves them," she said.

"Well don't tell Brent, he loves 'em too," Brad laughed as Nicky tried to launch himself at the food Janey pulled from the container.

"There's enough to go around if the guys want to come over," Janey said with a smile.

"You don't mind?" Brad asked curiously as he watched Nicky start to demolish a scone.

"I don't mind their company. They're actually pretty nice guys," Janey said with a shrug and a faint smile.

"I sometimes wonder if you ever wish all reminders of what happened would vanish into thin air," Brad said and rushed to continue when Janey glanced at Nicky shocked. "I mean except for Nicky here, I know you think the world of him."

"How about we have a chat when Nicky goes to sleep? Maybe it's time we talked about what happened between us at least," Janey said with an uncomfortable grimace.

"Yeah, that might be a good idea," Brad said quietly after a long pause.

"I got tea all ready to just put on and cook for when you're hungry," Janey said into the silence that descended between them.

"Great, good thinking," Brad said with a smile. "How about I give this young fellow a bath and have a shower myself? I'm a bit grubby from work,"

"Sounds like a plan," Janey agreed with a relieved smile.

* * * * *

Brad got a beer and a can of coke from the fridge before heading back to the lounge room. Nicky was finally in his cot asleep and Matt and Brent had left for the night.

"Here, have a drink," Brad said as he passed the can of coke to Janey before settling comfortably in his recliner chair.

"Thanks," Janey said. She was suddenly nervous and shy now they were alone. Would Brad remember they were going to talk about what had happened?

"It's a bit hard to know where to start isn't it," Brad said quietly after several minutes of silence between them.

"It wasn't as clear and simple as everyone thinks it was," Janey admitted softly.

"I know now that you weren't willing when I slept with you, I hope I didn't ... I hope I didn't hurt you," Brad said carefully.

Janey was silent for several moments as she thought carefully about what she was about to say. Finally she took a deep breath and glanced his way.

"I wasn't willing the first time, but then my only experience had been rape. I know now that Hawk had meant for it to be a horrible experience," Janey paused as she took another deep breath. "That first time I wasn't willing but you made sure my body wanted it Brad. You were tender and gentle and showed me that sex could feel good. It didn't have to be degrading and hurtful."

"I thought that you liked playing reluctant. I thought that was what was happening between you and Hawk, role-playing. I can't believe I was so stupid," Brad said tightly.

"After that first time it wasn't against my will. I even wished a few times that he'd give me to you for the night or something ..." Janey broke off embarrassed.

"So you could enjoy it and he couldn't hurt you," Brad offered.

Janey gave a slight nod and a self-conscious laugh, "Yeah something along those lines," she agreed.

"So how did you end up with Adam?" Brad asked quietly.

"I'm not really sure," Janey said slightly surprised. She thought for a few minutes before giving a slight shrug, "He was involved in ... he showed me books with photos to see if I could identify any of my abductors. And he was just ... I ended up sleeping with him, I actually missed sex," she said giving a tight uncomfortable laugh.

"I know the feeling," Brad offered tentatively. "So did he chase you or what?"

"I thought he was cute. He wears bike boots and leather jackets a lot. He was so nice to me, and I felt safe around him. He's not threatening, I don't feel threatened around him," Janey tried to explain.

"I think I can understand what you're saying. And safe was something you really needed to feel," Brad said quietly.

"I'm glad we're friends," Janey said suddenly, "not everything that came out of it was bad,"

"Nicky's something special isn't he," Brad mused softly.

"Not that we're biased," Janey laughed softly.

"So do you think things can be worked out between you and Ren?" Brad enquired. "Do you want to work things out with him?"

"It takes two ... " Janey broke off as her throat thickened and she cleared it before continuing, "I don't think he wants to."

"I think you pair really need to sit down and have a calm chat to each other," Brad said firmly.

"I think it might be too late for that," Janey said regretfully. "I think he'll keep away from me."

"Give it time and see how things go between you when he gets back," Brad advised gently.

Janey shrugged and was silent; she didn't know what to say.

"So what do you plan to do in the future? Be a stay at home mum or get some kind of a job?" Brad asked curiously.

"I been thinking of doing some kind of course at the local TAFE college," Janey answered.

"I don't think I've heard of that college," Brad remarked.

"TAFE stands for Tertiary And Further Education. They offer courses from Mechanics, Nursing, Childcare to Business Admin and Accounting, " Janey explained.

"What course are you thinking about?" Brad asked.

"Either a Business Admin course where I can work part-time in an office or an Accounting course and work from home. I don't want to put Nicky into day care and only see him at nights," Janey explained.

"Wouldn't having another baby with Adam have interfered with your plans or is the course thing new since you decided to give him the flick?" Brad asked with a raised eyebrow.

Janey felt the heat rise in her face quickly and shrugged uncomfortably, "I was using a diaphram without telling Adam. I just didn't feel ready to cope with a second child," Janey admitted.

"I'm glad to hear you had your head screwed on properly," was all Brad had to say. He yawned and stretched and glanced at his watch.

"Tired?" Janey asked with a quick glance.

"Yeah but I really miss 'Tanaya. Not just the sex but the company as well," Brad admitted quietly.

Janey nodded, she understood. She missed Gabriel when she wasn't with him. She'd never missed Adam that way she realised with a start.

"Not looking forward to going to bed in an empty bed huh," Janey said quietly.

"You got that right. I didn't realise just how much I would miss her," Brad said flatly.

"Well cheer up, it's only another what ... five or six days until she gets back," Janey said with forced brightness.

"Six. They get back Thursday," Brad confirmed. "I bet you'll be glad to see Ren again."

When Janey remained silent Brad glanced her way. He frowned when he saw the pained expression on her face. "Come on don't tell me you're not going to fight for him."

"He's the one who broke things up. He said it's over between us," Janey said in a strained whisper.

"Don't you realise he only did that because he thought he was treating you in a similar way to the way Hawk treated you?" Brad demanded angrily. " He was only trying to prevent that shithead upsetting you and instead he gets accused of treating you as if he thought he owned you."

"What happened is between Gabriel and I," Janey said tightly.

"Is it? That is my son in there!" Brad said angrily motioning towards the bedroom, "And every time you get upset and argue with Ren, Nicky gets upset, so it affects me too! Not to mention ..." 

The ringing of the phone interrupted his tirade and he got to his feet to answer the phone with an angry snarl.

"Hallo," Brad said curtly, his expression changed and he smiled. "Hey 'Tanaya, how are you tonight?"

He was silent for close to a minute before he laughed softly, "Yeah, Janey brought Nicky over to see me ... 'Tanaya and Ren say hi Janey ..."

"Hi 'Tanaya," Janey called. "I might head to bed. See you in the morning," she told Brad as she got to her feet and headed for the bedroom.

* * * * *

Ren paced the small lounge room restlessly; impatient to get his business done. Check on his restaurants and return back to the place he was beginning to think of as home.

"Can you sit down! You're making feel exhausted with your pacing," 'Tanaya snapped at him irritated.

Ren frowned darkly at her but sat down in one of the two-seater lounges.

"Why don't you have a beer and unwind a bit?" 'Tanaya asked levelly.

"I don't want a god-damned beer!" Ren snarled.

"No, you want Janey," 'Tanaya said.

Ren glowered at her but didn't confirm or refute her statement.

"Why don't you call Brad so you get off my back," Ren said after several minutes of silence between them.

'Tanaya smiled. She knew that he would hang around hoping for some snippet of news about Janey.

Picking up the telephone 'Tanaya raised her eyebrows at Ren, "Will you want to speak to Janey?"

"Why torture both of us?" Ren grunted angrily as he turned his face away.

"Idiot," 'Tanaya muttered as she dialled the familiar phone number.

Ren glanced back at 'Tanaya annoyed as he heard her muttered comment. She was watching him closely obviously ready to give him her view on things whether he wanted it or not so he remained silent.

After what seemed like forever to Ren 'Tanaya smiled to herself.

"Hi Janey, is Brad around?"

Ren watched as the smile faded from 'Tanaya's face to be replaced with a look of near panic.

"How bad is he hurt? Can I speak to him? Tell me exactly what happened, I want to speak to Brad now ..." 'Tanaya barely paused for breath as the words exploded out of her.




Halo Ch. 09



Ren got to his feet hurriedly and went to stand beside her; he placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Calm down 'Tanaya. Let me speak to Janey while you take several deep breaths," he said calmly. Gently he eased the phone from her tightly clenched hand.

"Hi Janey, It's Gabe. What's happened?" Ren asked calmly.

"Uh ... Gabriel," Janey said quietly, surprise clear in her voice. "Brad got hurt this morning. He'll be fine but he's in hospital over night. He had to go to work for a few hours and on the way to work the vehicle went off the road. The window broke and Brad got his arm sliced open. And a mild concussion,"

"Is he likely to get home tomorrow?" Ren asked quietly.

'Tanaya glanced around the room wildly, "I'm gonna pack and I'll get the first flight home," she announced and headed for the bedroom she had been using.

"Yes, he just has to stay in because he has to have strong antibiotics in a drip over night," Janey was saying softly.

"And you're staying at the house alone with Nicky?" Ren inquired.

"Brent will be here shortly. He's going to camp in the lounge room so I'm not alone," Janey explained.

"That's good Blondie. I'll wind things up here tomorrow morning and we'll head back as soon as we can, alright," Ren said soothingly.

"Okay," Janey agreed.

"Got a pen handy Sweetheart" Ren asked.

"Yeah, just a moment."

Ren listened to the faint rustling on the other end of the phone and then her soft breathing once again.

"Got pen and paper. Got a message for Brad or Brent?" Janey asked.

"Copy this number down," Ren said and slowly gave her the number to where he was. "One of you give us a call about ten in the morning. Let us know how Brad is, okay,"

"Can do," Janey acknowledged.

"Talk to you in the morning. Sweet dreams Blondie," Ren said, his voice dropping to an intimate tone.

"Is 'Tanaya okay? She sounded very upset when I said Brad was in hospital," Janey said softly.

" 'Tanaya will be fine, I'll look after her for Brad," Ren said gently. "Goodnight Blondie."

"Goodnight," Janey echoed.

Ren put the phone down and let out a huge sigh, glanced around for 'Tanaya then headed towards the bedrooms.

"Hey 'Tanaya, calm down mate," Ren said soothingly.

"Brad's hurt - I need to be with him," 'Tanaya said tearfully.

"We'll head home tomorrow. It should only take me half an hour, an hour at the most in the morning to set things up for Saul to finish things up for me," Ren told her gently.

'Tanaya nodded shakily and sat down on the edge of the bed and buried her face in her hands.

Ren hesitated for a moment before walking over, sitting beside her and putting an arm around her shoulders.

"It'll be alright," he soothed gently.

After a few moments 'Tanaya lifted her head and smiled teary eyed. Ren gently lifted her face by her chin. He kissed one eye closed then the other before enfolding her in his arms and holding her gently. When he felt her turn her head he pulled back slightly and looked down into her face for a few moments.

Her eyes drifted closed as he lowered his head and their lips met halfway. She felt the slight rasp of his goatee as his lips brushed against hers and she opened her mouth as his tongue traced the seam of her lips.

Both of them were breathless when he raised his head and he rested his forehead against hers for several minutes while their breathing returned to normal.

"I'd better go to my room," Ren said quietly.

"That might be a smart idea," 'Tanaya agreed faintly.

Ren got to his feet and walked to the door. He paused and looked back at 'Tanaya for moment before leaving the room. 

Where the hell is my head? 'Tanaya is Brad's woman and he's my best mate, Ren thought as he shut his bedroom door.

Ren stepped into the centre of the room and ran both hands through his hair. His body was humming with frustration and he shut his eyes tightly.

" 'Tanaya might be one sexy lady but she's not you Blondie, she's not you. Damn I need you sweetheart - you make my soul complete," Ren muttered softly.

In the other bedroom 'Tanaya was lying face down on the bed with her face buried in her pillow. After several moments she rolled onto her back taking the pillow with her and hugging it to her chest. Ren's kiss had been everything she had imagined kissing him would be like and nothing like she had thought it would be.

"You stay in your room Ren 'cause I don't think Brad would understand about satisfying physical urges with another man. As much as I've wondered ... it wouldn't be worth it," 'Tanaya muttered to herself. She took a deep breath and let out a tense sigh.

If I have to restrict myself to one man then I'm glad it's Brad. 'Tanaya thought with a frown as she rolled onto her stomach once again. Trust me to fall for someone who's not into threesomes or voyeurism. 

* * * * *

Janey put the glass of water and two pain relief tablets on the coffee table near Brad and planted her hands on her hips. 

"You will take those tablets now!" Janey ordered tightly.

"No. I want to be clear-headed when Ren and 'Tanaya get here in a little while," Brad said between clenched teeth.

Janey was silent as she regarded him for several moments. He was strained around the mouth and his eyes were glazed with the pain from his arm. He had been very difficult for the last two hours as the pain in his arm built.

"Take the tablets before Nicky finds them," Janey warned angrily.

"Put them up so he can't, " Brad shot back.

"Take the tablets and go try to have a nap. I promise I will wake you when they get back," Janey said tapping one foot in irritation.

"Back off," Brad warned darkly.

"Just take the bloody tablets," Janey snapped.

"They can't be more than half an hour away. I'll take the tablets once I've seen 'Tanaya," Brad said and looked away. "She was really freaked out when you told her I'd been hurt according to Ren."

"You think she will be impressed that you're in pain when she gets back because you wouldn't take your tablets before you saw her?" Janey demanded.

Brad gave a slight groan and reached for the tablets. "I didn't think of it like that," he admitted.

Janey watched relieved as Brad put the tablets in his mouth and washed them down with the glass of water.

"If you go lay down I'll keep Nicky quietly occupied," Janey said softly.

"I'll go lay down before I start to get groggy," Brad agreed and got to his feet stiffly.

Janey watched him head to his bedroom then turned her attention to Nicky who was playing with some matchbox cars. He was making engine noises and moving the car he held along the outline of a road on the play mat on the floor.

"Would you like some fruit salad Nicky," Janey asked. They referred to pieces of several fruit as fruit salad and it was Nicky's favourite mid afternoon snack.

"Frui' sala," Nicky said as he looked up eagerly.

"Fruit salad," Janey confirmed with a laugh.

The cut up fruit was ready in a covered bowl in the fridge and Janey sat at the table with Nicky while he ate with gusto. Her mobile buzzed its silent vibrating demand in her pocket and she took it out to check the screen. It showed private number and she placed it on the table without answering.

While Nicky was occupied with his fruit Janey helped herself to a glass of cold water. When her phone buzzed on the table she almost didn't look at it then reached for it with a sigh. The number displayed was unfamiliar and Janey answered it reluctantly.

"Hallo," her voice was cautious.

"Hi Janey, it's 'Tanaya,"

"Just down the road" Janey asked.

"We'll be another couple of hours; the road is closed from a crash earlier. We could turn back and go way out around but that would add another two or three hours driving time. We're both pretty bushed so we're waiting here. At least we can have a break if not a rest," 'Tanaya explained.

"Bummer. Brad should be asleep at the moment he took some painkillers. He'll be up and about when you get here," Janey told her.

"How is he," 'Tanaya asked.

"Grumpy 'cause you aint here," Janey said with a laugh.

"Awww -the poor boy," 'Tanaya commiserated.

"See you when you get here," Janey said.

"Yeah see you then," 'Tanaya agreed before ending the call.

"Dar?" Nicky was watching her hopefully.

"Dar and Naynay," Janey told him. She watched as her son broke into a beautiful smile and clapped his hands together mashing the piece of strawberry he held.

Janey laughed and got to her feet to get a wet rag to wipe his hands and face. She paused and turned her head towards the doorway, faint sounds catching her attention. Footsteps sounded nearing the kitchen and she watched the doorway.

"They not back yet," Brent asked as he stopped in the doorway.

"Hey move it," Matty complained behind him.

"Not yet, something about the road being temporarily closed after an accident. They should be here close to tea time," Janey said as she turned her attention back to her son.

"Need a hand with anything," Matty asked as he walked over and picked up Nicky who was now clean after his snack.

"Yeah you can occupy Nicky quietly for the next two hours," Janey said with a smile.

"Want to have a go on the swing?" Matty asked Nicky who was chatting away merrily to him. Nicky nodded enthusiastically and Matty headed for the backyard. 

"Matty is nothing but a big kid himself," Brent remarked as he turned his attention back to Janey.

"Yeah but at least he's house trained," Janey agreed.

Brent shook his head with a smile as he helped himself to a cold beer. "So Shantanaya keeps reminding me," Brent said wryly.

"What is the story between you and 'Tanaya if you don't mind me asking," Janey said as she sat across the table from him.

Brent was silent for a moment as he studied Janey's face. "You'd have to ask 'Tanay' about it," he finally said.

Janey turned her face away and reached for her empty glass.

"How are the birthday plans going for Friday?" Brent asked evenly.

"Good. Every thing is worked out," Janey said with a grateful smile at the change of subject. She still found Brent a bit intimidating at times.

"Is there anything Nicky would want or need? I'm a bit stuck with present ideas," Brent explained.

"Nicky loves building blocks, toy cars and t-shirts with toy cars on them," Janey said with a faint smile. Robby had asked her the same question a few days earlier. 



Halo Ch. 10



For those readers unfamiliar with Australian terms, a work party is a group of people who get together to complete a task. For example, friends and family might form a work party to set up an engagement party for a couple.

*

Ren opened the front door and stepped inside so 'Tanaya could follow him in. He heard her close the door behind them and he led the way up the hallway. Brad, Janey, Nicky and possibly Brent and Matty should be in the kitchen eating.

Ren stopped at the door of 'Tanaya and Brad's room when he heard movement within. He looked inside then grinned at 'Tanaya over his shoulder as he jerked his head towards the room.

'Tanaya poked Ren in the ribs making him move so she could walk into the room.

"Trust you to knock yourself around while I'm away," 'Tanaya said softly.

" 'Tanaya!" Brad whirled around, a large grin spreading across his face. He held out his good arm and 'Tanaya rushed into his embrace. He folded his arm around her and kissed her hungrily.

Ren smiled at the sight of them locked in each other's arms, totally unaware of all else. "I think I'll go find Janey," he said but neither of them heard him as he turned away.

Brad reluctantly stopped kissing 'Tanaya when she pulled back from him. Her hands were skimming over his shoulders as she ran her eyes over his injured arm.

"How bad is it? What exactly did you do?" 'Tanaya's eyes showed her worry as she looked into his face.

" On the way to work Hank had to swerve to avoid a car that came around a blind corner on the wrong side of the road. We went off the road and side swiped a tree, my window shattered and the door was shredded up pretty bad. A piece of metal ripped into my forearm. There's a lot of muscle damage but no arteries, major blood vessels or tendons were damaged. The metal actually cut the bone as well. There'll be a lot of physio but I'll recover," Brad said calmly.

'Tanaya went pale at his words and swayed slightly but Brad still had his good arm around her and pulled her hard against his body.

"But Janey only said you'd been cut by glass!" 'Tanaya said, her eyes wide with distress.

"Brent and I told her what to say. Brent said you'd panic if you knew how bad it actually was," Brad said gently.

"You bastards!" 'Tanaya punched him in his uninjured shoulder then ran her hand anxiously over the spot, "nowhere else was injured?"

"Just my arm," Brad reassured her before adding softly, "and my heart with you being away,"

"Oh Brad," 'Tanaya sighed softly and glanced at his arm. "Does it hurt?"

"It aches like the devil when the pain killers wear off but that'll pass after a week or more," Brad said levelly. He lowered his head to sniff her hair and frowned when he couldn't smell her regular shampoo. "Smells like you been showering with Ren."

"Ha, you only wish so you could watch," 'Tanaya nearly laughed as she lifted her head to kiss him softly on his lips.

"Damn but I've missed you," Brad said thickly when their lips parted.

"I've missed you too," 'Tanaya whispered.

"Marry me," Brad said. The words came from nowhere but as they left his lips Brad realised that this was exactly what he wanted.

"What?" 'Tanaya said shock colouring her voice.

"Let's get married. These past few days apart have shown me exactly how much I love you. Marry me," Brad urged.

"What about Janey and Nicky?" 'Tanaya asked cautiously.

"I love you, not her. And as for Nicky, Janey will be willing to work things out with us," Brad said confidently. "So will you marry me Shantanaya Redwolf?"

'Tanaya stared at Brad for a few moments before a happy grin slowly spread across her face.

"Yes! Yes! Yes!" 'Tanaya shouted happily.

* * * * *

Ren leant against the door jam as he watched Janey lifting Nicky into the high chair and placing his plate of food in front of him. He smiled to himself as he heard the boys' cry of delight then Janey's gasp; obviously Nicky had not been able to wait and had grabbed for his food before Janey had let go of it.

"So is everyone's food ready or just Nicky's," Ren asked with a grin. He only had eyes for Janey as she turned around to face him, surprise showing on her face. He was dimly aware of Brent and Matty stepping into view and speaking to him and he nodded at them without really listening to them.

"Gabriel," Janey said on a breathy sigh.

"Dar! Dar! Dar!" Nicky screamed and banged his spoon on the side of his plate. The plate tipped over spilling food onto the highchair tray and onto Janey as well.

"Where's 'Tanaya," Janey asked as it registered she wasn't in the doorway or behind Ren.

"She couldn't make it past the bedroom when she heard Brad moving around in there," Ren said with a grin. As he took in the array of emotions that were flickering deep in Janey's eyes he realised just how much he had missed her the few days he had been away.

The problems that had seemed insurmountable suddenly became meaningless as his heart expanded at the sight of her. He recognised the uncertainty in her eyes and mentally kicked himself for the things he had said to her before leaving.

"Well at least Nicky is happy to see me," Ren said lightly as he walked into the room and scooped Nicky up out of the highchair.

Nicky was talking excitedly, there was a jumble of sounds and words coming from him and every so often clearly recognisable words could be heard.

"Your words have improved so much even in the few days I been away. Nicky is so clever isn't he Mummy," Ren directed his question at Janey. She smiled fondly at her son as he chatted to Ren and opened and closed his little fists in front of Ren's face.

Janey glanced at Ren's face and looked away quickly when he smiled brightly at her. Confusion crowded her mind; he had said their relationship was over but here he was speaking and acting as if things were still the same.

"Yes! Yes! Yes!" The sound of 'Tanaya shouting happily could be heard clearly.

"Naynay!" Nicky yelled as if she had been calling him. He wriggled to be put on the floor and when Ren obliged he took off for the door at a run calling "Naynay!"

Janey laughed softly and shook her head, "I'm telling Brad it's your fault Nicky is interrupting whatever they're doing," Janey said even though she was sure that whatever they were doing wouldn't be x-rated.

"'Tanaya probably yelled so someone would save her," Ren laughed as he slipped his arms around Janey. He felt her tense in his arms but pressed a kiss to the side of her neck anyway.

"You broke off with me, remember?" Janey turned to face him and pushed herself away from him.

"We can work things out. I'm sure we can. We WILL talk, will listen and I remember to stay calm," Ren said apologetically.

Janey turned away and began to clean up the spilled food she had been going to feed Nicky.

"Are you guys fighting?" Matty asked quietly.

"They had better not be," Brad said from the doorway.

Janey glanced towards him. He stood in the doorway with his good arm around 'Tanaya who held Nicky as he cuddled into her. Clearly he had missed her being in the house over the weekend.

"Listen up people," Brad said then glanced down at 'Tanaya.

"Brad has asked me to marry him, I said yes," 'Tanaya announced happily.

"Congratulations!" Ren said and went over to shake Brad's uninjured hand even though it was the left hand.

"Yeah, congratulations," Matty said as he shook Brad's hand next.

"I hope both of you will be very happy," Brent said.

'Tanaya smiled at him and nodded slightly, "Thank you. That means a lot coming from you."

"I just want to see you happy," Brent said before walking past them.

There was silence as they all listened to him walk up the hallway and out the front door.

"You're okay with it?" 'Tanaya directed her comment to Janey.

Janey smiled and walked over to Brad and 'Tanaya, she stood on tip-toe to kiss 'Tanaya on the cheek and then kiss Brad on the cheek.

"I am happy for both of you. And it's about time Brad pulled his finger out," Janey said with a laugh.

"Thank you," 'Tanaya said and impulsively hugged Janey, Nicky caught in the centre.

Nicky chuckled with delight and kissed both of them rather sloppily on the cheek.

"See, even Nicky approves," Janey said as she stepped back self-consciously.

"Should someone go after Brent?" Matty asked worriedly.

"Give him some time to himself," Ren said quietly.

"This calls for a celebration," Janey announced.

"Tomorrow night," Brad said as he met her eyes. Janey nodded her understanding and turned back towards the high chair.

"It looks like Nicky got creative with his food," 'Tanaya said.

"He was being bad," Janey shrugged and finished cleaning up the mess putting the plate and food on the sink.

"There enough food for everyone?" 'Tanaya wanted to know as she settled Nicky into his highchair.

"Yeah, and it should still be hot. If everyone wants to go wash up I can put everything on the table," Janey said.

"I got the wash basin first," Ren said and headed for the bathroom.

Janey gave Nicky a fresh helping of food then set about putting the cooked food on the table and hurriedly setting out plates and cutlery. She left a place setting on the bench for Brent if he should turn up. By the time she was finished the others were returning from washing up and began to take their places at the table.

"I'm starving," Ren said as he helped himself to a big serving of the meaty casserole.

"Starbin!" Nicky parroted loudly.

Janey lowered her head to hide her smile as Brad cleared his throat noisily.

"Haven't you been feeding this boy?" 'Tanaya asked with wide-eyes for Nicky's benefit.

"Starbin!" Nicky echoed.

"Not since he had fruit a couple of hours ago," Janey said trying not to laugh.

"Star-bin!" Nicky called demandingly.

Janey patiently helped Nicky get a spoonful of food and move it to his mouth. He laughed and opened his mouth wide as he grabbed the food.

"Star-bin," he mumbled around the mouthful of food.

"Now look what you've taught my boy! You want to teach a kid smart remarks get your own kid and teach it," Brad said to Ren as he forced a frown. Even he was finding it hard not to laugh at his son.

"Give me six or twelve months and I might start thinking about it," Ren said seriously.

Janey glanced his way quickly to find him watching her and she looked away hurriedly.

"Are you two going to get married as well?" Matty asked in the sudden silence.

"We haven't talked about that," Ren said quietly as he watched Janey.

"But yous are going to..." Matty began.

"Stop asking questions," 'Tanaya told him with a dark look.

Matty glanced at Janey who was eating with her attention fixed firmly on her plate and he wondered if he had said something wrong.

"Starbin!" Nicky said and banged his spoon on the highchair tray.

"Nicky is being a Gremlin Mummy thinks," Janey told him as she fed him another spoonful of food.

"Grem'in! Nicky Grem'in!" Nicky said with laughter.

"Yeap, Nicky the Gremlin," Janey said with a soft laugh.

"Daddy Grem'in! Naynay Grem'in! Dar Grem'in! Mummy Grem'in! Nicky Grem'in!" Nicky informed her happily. He yawned and then rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand.

"Someone's tired," 'Tanaya observed quietly.

"Nicky has been playing with Matty and Brent all evening," Janey said as she scrapped the last of the food into the spoon and offered it to Nicky.

Nicky turned his head away refusing to open his mouth and Janey put the spoon down. She got up and poured a drink into Nicky's sippy cup then took over to him; he grabbed it in both hands and drank thirstily.

"I'll help with the dishes," Ren said.

"Brent and I were supposed to be on dish duty," Matty told him.

"Mummy," Nicky grizzled as he put his cup aside and held both arms out to her.

Janey put her half finished food aside and lifted Nicky from the highchair. He immediately buried his face in her neck and tried to bounce in her arms.

"I'll put him in his cot," Janey said and left the room.

Ren waited a few moments after she had left the room before getting to his feet and following her. In Brad and 'Tanaya's room she was putting a nappy on Nicky who was laying on their bed cuddling a soft toy with his eyes closed.

"Hey, you okay," Ren asked softly as he walked over near her.

"Who are you planning having your child with?" Janey asked evenly.

"It's not something I'm actually planning. It's something I wouldn't mind doing. That's if we end up together," Ren said quietly.

Janey let out a soft sigh and picked Nicky up. She cuddled him close and gave him a kiss on the cheek before putting him in his cot. Nicky rolled onto his stomach, drew his knees up under him and settled himself with his nappied behind sticking up.

"He's one cute kid," Ren said softly.

"We'll talk when we both have had a shower," Janey said quietly.

"I've missed you so badly the last few days," Ren said quietly.

"It was your choice to leave on such bad terms," Janey pointed out not unkindly.

"Yes it was. And I've regretted it from the moment the words left my mouth," Ren said truthfully.

"He's asleep," Janey said and tucked a blanket over the sleeping boy.

"Let's go leave him sleep," Ren said softly as he slipped his arm around her waist to guide her from the room.

Janey moved unresistingly until they were outside the room where she halted in the hallway.

"Something wrong?" Ren asked cautiously.

"Yes. You haven't even tried to kiss me hallo," Janey said as she lifted her chin to look him in the face.

Ren smiled and moved closer, "I can soon remedy that," he said, his voice taking on a husky quality.

Janey sighed softly at the first light brush of his lips on hers and Ren lifted his head to look down at her.

"You alright? Something wrong," he asked.

"Something was finally right," Janey said tightly and reached up behind his head to pull his mouth down to hers.

Ren smiled against her lips as he kissed her and he felt her soft sigh against his lips once again. He changed the angle of his kiss and he felt Janey plaster herself against his body. Reluctantly he raised his head and watched as she slowly opened her eyes. They were clouded from their kiss and her lips were damp and softly swollen. 

"We'd better go back to the kitchen before the others send out a search party," Janey said quietly.

Ren laughed softly, "I don't think Brad or 'Tanaya would do that but Matty is a bit of a worry."

Janey headed back to the kitchen. She sat down and looked at her cold tea and shook her head.

"I can put it in the microwave it you want it warm," Ren said in concern.

"I'm just not that hungry," Janey said with a shrug.

"How about a cuppa or a juice?" Ren asked eager to temp her with something.

"A big glass of cold water sound good," Janey offered.

Ren got her the glass of cold water and placed it in front of her before sitting down once again.

"So you guys aren't fighting anymore?" Matty had to ask.

"We weren't fighting. It was a constructive conversation as my Mother says," Janey said with a faint smile.

"Good, 'cause I don't like it when you get all sad-eyed and Ren gets grumpy," Matty announced.

"So how long of an engagement are you having?" Janey asked as she glanced from Brad to 'Tanaya.

"We haven't discussed that yet," Brad admitted.

"The shorter the better as far as I'm concerned," Tanaya said with a smile at Brad. He smiled back and gave a slight nod.

"Church, backyard here or a park somewhere?" Brad asked.

"A registry office would be quick and cheap," 'Tanaya offered biting her bottom lip.

"You could have a party afterwards in the backyard," Ren said.

"Why have it here where Brad and 'Tanaya would have to worry about setting everything up and cleaning up afterwards?" Janey asked.

"We're not exactly flush with money. My savings got used up," Brad said quietly.

Janey was just about to ask what it had been used on when it dawned on her that he would have had to pay his own legal expenses. She glanced at Ren to find him watching her; he gave her a faint smile and nodded slightly.

"Work party before and after then," Janey said.

"Of course," Matty said giving Janey a smile when she looked his way.

"Let's get started on the dishes so we're not up until midnight doing them," Ren said to Matty.

"I'll go have my shower and get out of the way," Janey announced.

Janey headed to the bedroom she used to collect her pyjamas and when she came out of the room she was surprised to find 'Tanaya waiting for her in the hallway.

"Something you want?" Janey asked quietly.

"Would you be inter ... would you consider being my Maid of Honour?" 'Tanaya asked nervously.

"Of course, I'd be delighted to," Janey said happily.

"Thankyou," 'Tanaya gushed happily and hugged Janey impulsively. Janey hugged her and found herself patting her back.

"I don't have many close female friends but I immediately thought of you, and I was a bit worried that ... you'd only been tolerating me because of Brad and Nicky." 'Tanaya admitted almost shyly.

Janey laughed softly, "At first yes. You seemed to hate me and then I got to really know you and I found I really like the person you are. I'd be honoured to be your Maid of Honour," Janey reassured her. "At least this way I know that Nicky will be in good hands with you if Brad has to go anywhere."

"I'd better let you have your shower or you'll find Ren sneaking in while you're still in the shower," 'Tanaya laughed.

Janey smiled and headed for the bathroom.

* * * * *

Janey was stretched out on the bed on her stomach reading a magazine when Ren came into the room; she looked his way and watched as he walked around the bed to sit beside her.

"Damn but I feel heaps better after that shower," Ren said with feeling.

"Smell heaps better too," Janey said with a smile.

Ren narrowed his eyes at her playfully, "You saying I smelt?"

"Maybe," Janey giggled and dropped the magazine down beside the bed.

"Grrrrr," Ren made a throaty growl as he leant over her.

"Becoming a bit of a caveman are you?" Janey asked as she rolled onto her side so she could watch him easily.

"Ugh," Ren grunted and Janey giggled.

"We need to be serious," Ren said quietly after a few minutes.

"I know," Janey said soberly.

"When I spoke to Adam on the phone I wasn't trying to tell you who you can and can't talk to. I was just trying to get the guy to stop upsetting you," Ren said quietly.

"I knew that. I knew it in my heart and in my head. But something made me yell that at you, " Janey looked away for a moment. "Maybe it was because I knew you wouldn't react like Hawk would have. But something in me had to make sure."

"I'm nothing like Hawk!" Ren snapped tightly.

"I know that. The last time we were in this bedroom ... do you realise that was the first time I've seen you fully aroused? You were so big and so hard, you scared me, and I was scared it would hurt. But in my head I knew you are nothing like Hawk and that you won't hurt me. And later when... when you put your hand on my butt and bad memories rushed back," Janey took a deep breath and closed her eyes for a few seconds. 

When she opened her eyes to look at Ren once more he was watching her with a hurt look on his face.

"The memories were there crowding in but they never ... I didn't get over come by the memories. I wasn't back there overwhelmed by the pain and fear, they were just some horrible memories," Janey said desperately trying to explain.

"You freaked out ..." Ren said tightly.

"Listen to me! I nearly freaked out. Horrible horrible memories hit me but I could handle it because you were with me. It wasn't easy but I knew you would never hurt me," Janey said as she refused to break eye contact with him.

Ren buried his face against her breasts and held her close, she could feel him shaking slightly against her and she cuddled him close.




Halo Ch. 10



"I was scared I had done something wrong. Had hurt you or done something you hate," Ren whispered fiercely.

"I got something you might be interested to hear," Janey said softly.

"Hhhmmmmm?" Ren said without lifting his head.

"You have to promise you'll listen to what I have to say without interrupting," Janey said firmly.

"Okay," Ren said raising his head and studying her face.

"I ended up speaking to Adam; I broke it off with him. I felt bad doing it over the phone but it had to be done. I sent the ring to him express post. It wasn't fair to him not to tell him and it wasn't fair to us." Janey said firmly.

"You broke it off with him? You're through with him," Ren asked incredulously.

"Yes Gabriel. Other than Nicky you're the main man in my life," Janey said softly.

"Damn, hot damn," Ren whispered to himself still finding it hard to believe. 

"How do you feel about the L word," he demanded suddenly.

"What L word," Janey asked although she knew exactly which word he meant.

"You know," Ren said. "The L word, Love?"

"Hmmm, I don't know," Janey said softly.

Ren eyed her uncertainly for a few moments before shaking his head and looking away.

"Gabriel, would you do something for me?" Janey asked quietly.

"What," Ren asked.

"Well, you know what was done to me ... would you do it up my bum," Janey said rushing the last few words and looking away.

"I refuse to hurt you," Ren said gently.

"I ... that's just it. I don't think I'd mind if you did. You wouldn't hurt me," Janey said faintly.

"Oh Blondie," Ren sighed softly, "I couldn't guarantee I wouldn't hurt you if we did try it."

"But you'd stop if you hurt me. You wouldn't be trying to hurt me," Janey said with a rush. "Besides, I'm ummm ... getting hot and wet thinking about it," she admitted then buried her face in her pillow. 

Ren looked at her in shocked surprise; slowly he reached out and placed his hand on her back between her shoulder blades.

"I'm honoured that you trust me so much. I would never willingly do anything to hurt you. I'm so glad you realise that. If you really want we can do things when we have sex... things that should help you feel more comfortable if and when we were to have anal sex," Ren said gently as he moved his hand in gentle soothing circles. 

"Hmm," Janey made a noncommittal sound into her pillow after a few minutes of silence.

Ren reached up and lifted her hair away from the side of her face and pressed a soft kiss to her cheek. Slowly he nuzzled his way across her cheek to her ear and he felt her shudder as his lips closed over the lobe of her ear. He trailed his lips down her neck as best he could and finally Janey moved so she was on her side facing him; he moved back up and kissed her gently.

Janey moaned softly against his lips as he took his time kissing her softly. Frustrated she opened her mouth and traced the seam of his lips with her tongue. His mouth opened and his tongue touched the tip of her tongue. She whimpered softly and he pulled her hard against him.

Janey wriggled to get closer to Ren's hard body; she hooked her top leg up over his thigh and clutched at his shoulders. She could taste the faint taste of toothpaste and his goatee brushed against her skin making it tingle with awareness.

She gasped and opened her eyes slightly as his mouth trailed down her neck to where her pulse beat wildly just above her collarbone.

"Would you turn the light out please," Janey asked faintly.

"Whatever makes you feel comfortable," Ren said huskily against her neck. He lifted his head and waited for a few moments before he got to his feet reluctantly and turned the light out. He made his way back to the bed removing his shirt as he went; when he stretched out on the bed once again he realised that Janey was removing some form of clothing as well.

"I just took off my shirt. What did you take off," Ren asked as he reached out to stroke her arm lightly.

"My dressing gown," Janey whispered as she shivered with delight. His touch was gentle and sent slivers of sensation across her skin as he stroked her upper arm.

"Hmm, bare skin. I like," Ren groaned throatily then moved closer so he could trail kisses down over the skin he had been stroking.

He could feel the silky texture of the fabric covering her waist and he moved his hand up to cup her breast through the fabric. He could feel the raised sensation of lace and groaned with approval as he traced the pattern with his fingertips.

"Whatever you're wearing feels good," he said as he urged her gently onto her back.

His thigh slid between hers and his lips closed over her nipple through the fabric of her pyjamas. He drew it into his mouth as he suckled strongly and she arched beneath him, her hands clutching at the back of his head as she held his head to her breast. 

He eased his hand down over her ribs and stomach then cupped the curve of her hip as he turned his attention to her other breast. He felt her body move restlessly beneath his and he slid his hand down the outside of her hip.

The material stopped at her knickers line and he caressed the edge of the seam until his fingers found where the garment was fastened with press-studs over the outer petals of her sex.

Janey moaned softly against his mouth as his fingers lightly traced the fastenings of her lace teddy. She could feel her body becoming more warm and liquid as his fingers traced lightly over the material teasing her.

Her breasts felt full and achy, the nipples hard little buds that strained against her top longing for contact with his bare skin. The soft rasp of the material against her nipples sent little fissions of sensation spiralling into her sex making her squirm as she arched against him.

The inside of her thighs quivered as he cupped her woman's mound with his hand and rocked the heel of his hand against the growing moist patch. The material of his jeans was rough on her leg as she moved restlessly; she turned her face towards his and licked her lips trying to ease the swollen dry feeling.

"Please, we've got too many clothes on," Janey gasped as her body continued to move instinctively as he rocked his hand against the core of her femininity.

Ren laughed huskily as he felt Janey tense then shudder as he slowly unsnapped the press-studs that fastened the teddy. He could hear the harsh gasps of her breath as he parted the material and ran his fingers through the wet curls beneath.

"Please," Janey gasped and reached for the front of his jeans. She fumbled one handed to undo his jeans and Ren groaned as her fingertips brushed the torrid length of his erection. Her fingers found their way beneath the waistband of his jocks and it was his turn to gasp and jerk as her hand encircled him.

"Take it easy," Ren gasped huskily as she strained to free him completely.

He groaned and lifted his hips so it was easier for her to push his clothes lower, then her fingers traced the length of his shaft before moving lower to cup his balls gently.

"I'm going to fuck that hot, wet, tight little pussy of yours," Ren growled as he grabbed both of her wrists and pulled her arms up above her head. He moved over her so that his hips rested in the cradle of her thighs and moved his hips rubbing the hard shaft of his erection against her slick swollen opening.

Janey gasped and pushed her hips against his but Ren lowered his head and caught her lips in a hard demanding kiss as he rocked his hips back and forth. He felt the head of his cock push against her wet entrance but he moved so that it slid across the gaping opening and up over her engorged clit.

He swallowed her frustrated squeal and continued to rock his hips against her. Finally the wet warmth held too much temptation and he changed his movements slightly allowing his rock hard cock to enter her slick passage with a hard thrust that buried his torrid length to his balls.

Janey gave a startled squeal and he lifted his head to peer down at her in the dim light.

"You all right?" Ren forced the words past his tight throat, holding still when his body demanded he stake his claim hard and fast.

"Oh God," a frantic note coloured her voice as she gasped and moved beneath him urgently.

"Janey, Blondie, you with me Sweetheart," Ren asked as he watched her face.

Janey gasped and arched her neck back for a few moments. Ren released his hold on her wrists and brushed her cheek with the back of one hand, he felt the muscles beneath the skin move and she turned her face towards his hand.

Janey brushed a kiss against his hand - she wanted to add some spice to their sex-life but wasn't sure how to broach the subject so she whimpered softly, "Please Mr Biker man. I'm a good girl I am. I don't do what you want to do to me," Janey said in a soft husky tone, "Gabriel." 

Ren gave a soft growl as he caught her wrists once more. Her lips brushed against the corner of his mouth for a moment before she pulled at her hands faintly. "You're alright? You want to play it that way," he asked huskily.

"Please Mr Biker Man."

"You're wet and tight, such a sweet little thing. I'm gonna fuck you then you won't be a good girl," Ren gave a soft laugh as he began to move in hard strong thrusts. "On second thought, you're going to be a real good girl," 

Janey tried to make a soft sound of complaint but it came out more like a sound of pleasure as her body moved in time with his.

"I think you're enjoying getting fucked as much as I'm enjoying fucking you," Ren said hoarsely as he began moving faster.

Janey whimpered and pulled her knees up enabling him to sink deeper with each thrust. A moan of pleasure came from her throat and she whimpered as she turned her face into his neck.

Ren could feel her inner muscles clutching at his cock as he nearly withdrew only to plunge into her time and time again. Her it felt as if her body was trying to pull his deeper with each movement they made. He became aware of the tingling that began to start in his scrotum signalling that his release was close.

The realisation he had failed to use protection hit him. For a moment he was tempted to ignore the fact and stake his claim by leaving his seed deep within her. Reason quickly asserted itself and Ren gritted his teeth as he forced himself to withdraw from the haven of her warm and welcoming body.

Their movements became more frantic and Janey felt Ren suddenly tense before jerking his hips away from hers and slipping from her warm body.

Janey gasped arched beneath him. She felt the wet warmth low on her stomach moments before Ren collapsed against her. She whimpered and moved restlessly against him, her body in the turmoil of frustrated need.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry," Ren muttered as he roused himself to move down her body.

He spread her thighs wide, hooking them over his shoulders before spreading her wet folds with his fingers and lowering his head.

Janey gasped and grabbed two hands full of sheet beneath her at the first leisurely flick of his tongue. She shuddered as his tongue flicked her engorged clit before moving down to circle her pulsing opening. She gasped and bucked as his tongue plunged into her willing body.

His tongue pushed back and forth several times before withdrawing to circle her opening then his lips closed over her clit while his fingers found her dripping entrance.

Janey pressed her hand against her mouth to smother her scream of pleasure as wave after wave of sensations washed over her. Slowly she came back to her senses and turned her head to where Ren rested on the pillow beside her.

"Got a thing for being ravished by bikers, have you," Ren laughed softly.

"Only green-eyed blonde renegades," Janey yawned tiredly.

"Is that so," Ren growled softly as he rolled onto his side to face her.

"Hmmm, yes," Janey said softly, yawned again and closed her eyes.

"I think I'm going to have to immediately completely undress then put a condom on every time I walk through the bedroom door," Ren said quietly.

"What?" Janey asked as she opened her eyes to look at him.

"I still got my jeans an' jocks mostly on and I forgot to use protection," Ren said in a strained voice. I can't jeopardise what we have through lack of restraint and responsibility, he thought silently.

"Oh," Janey said with a soft sigh as she closed her eyes.

* * * * *

Janey walked into the kitchen of her parents' house and put two slices of bread in the toaster before helping herself to a glass of juice. She sipped the juice while she waited for the bread to toast.

It was early morning on Nicky's first birthday. He was still asleep and Janey wanted to get several things done before he woke.

She had spent every night but the previous night at the house with Ren since Ren and 'Tanaya's return from Sydney and the days at her parents' place while he was at work. She had decided to spend the night at her parents' house so she could get up early and get a head start on preparations for the party to be held that afternoon.

"I thought I heard someone in here," Marina said as she walked into the kitchen.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," Janey said as she looked up from buttering her toast.

"You didn't. I was planning to get an early start this morning anyway," Marina said as she set about making herself a cup of tea.

"Brad and 'Tanaya should get here about twoish. They want to help with preparations for the party," Janey said as she sat down.

Brad and 'Tanaya had been over to visit twice at her parents' house in the last few days and Janey had been happy to find that both of them got on with her parents. Her parents seemed to like them as well. Robby had been a different matter. Brad seemed to be getting on with him nearly as well as he got on with James but 'Tanaya was reserved and distrustful of him.

"It's lovely that you and Shantanaya get on so well," Marina said, she had refused to use 'Tanaya saying her full name was so pretty someone should use it.

"She's a good person and she thinks the world of Nicky," Janey said before biting into her toast hungrily.

"I don't think she could love him more if he was her own child," Marina said.

"Just as long as it stays that way when her and Brad start their own family," Janey said evenly.

The two women continued to chat about the party and the people who were coming while they had their early morning toast and cup of tea. Nicky slept late which gave them a chance to finish the few things they had wanted to get done that morning.

Lunchtime came and went quickly and almost before Janey was aware of the passage of time Brad and 'Tanaya had arrived.

"Where's the birthday boy?" Brad called pretending not to see Nicky who was toddling along behind Janey.

"Here he is Daddy," Janey said with a laugh as she moved aside so Nicky could see Brad and 'Tanaya as they got out of Ren's vehicle.

"Hey there big boy," 'Tanaya said with a smile.

Nicky stopped, concentrated on his hand and held it up with all his fingers spread wide. "Wwun," Nicky said clearly.

"One? You're one?" Brad said as he squatted down on face level with his son.

"Wwun," Nicky repeated holding his hand near Brad's face.

Brad lifted Nicky up with his good arm and stood up. He smiled at Janey then glanced towards the house as Jim and Marina came out the front door.

"Hallo there Brad, 'Tanaya. I see you got the birthday boy," Jim said with a friendly smile.

"Grandpa Jim, Grandma Marina," Brad greeted them.

"Hi Jim, Marina," 'Tanaya said with a smile.

"I bet you could do with a cup of tea before you start setting up," Marina said.

"I'm fine Grandma Marina," Brad said.

"I'd love a cuppa," 'Tanaya said. She enjoyed the time spent sitting around talking with Janey and her mother.

While Marina, Janey and 'Tanaya headed inside the house Jim, Brad and Nicky headed for the back yard where tables and chairs would be set out for the party later that evening.

* * * * *

Janey glanced towards the front of the house as she heard a vehicle approaching, and then glanced at her watch.

"Who ever that is is early," Janey said to her mother and 'Tanaya who were placing plastic plates and cutlery in covered containers on one of the tables.

"Your Dad and Brad can see to who ever it is," Marina said.

"Do you think Nicky will wake up before everyone gets here," 'Tanaya asked, "He was a bit late going down for a nap."

Janey laughed softly, "It's a wonder he is having a nap. He knows today is different and is so excited."

Both Marina and 'Tanaya laughed in agreement. Everyone had witnessed Nicky's exuberant behaviour for nearly two hours before he succumbed to exhaustion. 

"That's everything done but the bar-b-queing. The salads and deserts are just waiting to be put out when it's time," Marina announced.

"Cuppa tea time," Janey said and the other two women agreed.

They were headed for the back door when Jim came through it looking none too happy. He halted as he saw the women heading towards him.

"Janey," he said in an unnaturally controlled tone.

"Dad," Janey said glancing behind him as she picked up on the fact something had upset her father.

"Adam is here, but you don't have to see him. I can ask him to leave if you like," Jim told her.

Janey stilled for a moment then took a deep breath. Her lips were tightly compressed and her eyes had a guarded look as she shook her head, "I might as well get this over and done with now."

"I asked him to wait on the front veranda. He's far from pleased," Jim said evenly.

"Righto," Janey said and headed for the side of the house to walk around to the front gaining a fraction more time for her to think of what she'd say to him.

She walked slowly but all too soon she was going around the corner to the front of the house. Adam was standing out on the front path while Brad stood near the front door. Adam had his back to both of them looking back over the driveway. Brad was quick to notice Janey as she came around the side of the house.

"Do you want me to wait out here," Brad asked Janey as she made her way across the front lawn.

"I've already told you I ..." Adam nearly snarled at Brad but halted what he was saying when he caught sight of Janey as he was turning around. "Janey, it's good to see you. Can we go somewhere private to talk?"

"I'll be fine but thanks Brad, " Janey said with a faint smile his way.

"Just give a yell if you need anything," Brad said before heading inside.

"Janey, how are you doing," Adam asked with a smile as he stepped closer to her.

Janey halted, her hands on her hips and feet wide apart. "I'm perfectly fine thanks Adam. But what are you doing here?"

"I was hoping we could talk and work things out," Adam said coaxingly with a charming smile.

For the first time Janey saw him clearly. He was an attractive man and dressed in a very similar style to the way all the men she had come into contact with when she had been abducted. He was kind, charming, naturally protective and very understanding. She realised with a shock how appealing he was to her even now.

"I'm sorry Adam, but I don't want to," Janey said quietly.

"Look I know Renford, Stanton and that woman have been saying things against me, trying to come between us. And being away I couldn't give you the support you need ..." 

"Adam, stop right there. They haven't been saying anything against you. You've always been the one to speak against them," Janey said calmly.

"I know how vulnerable you've been. I understand how people like them work. Even now Renford still believes he owns you. He paid a lot of money to Hawkings and he's never seen a cent of it back. Never will. He's just so smart he knows how to play you," Adam said earnestly.

"I not listening to you carry on Adam. If that's all you've got to say for yourself then goodbye," Janey said firmly.




Halo Ch. 10



"I ... I really care about you Janey. I love you I want to marry you. I'm even willing to accept your son; I love the kid too." Adam said earnestly and held up the gaily-wrapped present he held, "I've gotten him a birthday present. I spent ages picking out something just right for him."

"Adam just ..." Janey began flatly.

"I know how lonely you've been while I was gone. I haven't been here to support you," Adam smiled ruefully, "But I'm back now. We can work things out I know we can."

"Adam you don't know what I want or what I need," Janey said levelly.

"Maybe I don't but maybe you don't really know either. I'll protect you and look after you. You'll be safe with me," Adam said gently.

"Adam stop, just stop what you're saying. I don't ..." Janey paused and glanced towards the driveway as she heard vehicles approaching. She was relieved to recognise both of her brothers' vehicles and turned to walk to the front gate.

"Ahhh, here comes Robby and James. Maybe you'll listen to them," Adam said gently as he followed her.

Janey ignored his comment and watched as her brothers carefully parked their vehicle in the shade of the trees that lined the front fence. She recognised the defensive set to James' shoulders as he got out of his car and headed her way.

"Hallo Blonde one," James said with a wide grin. His smile was reserved as he glanced Adam's way. "Adam."

"Hallo James, Hallo Robby. I'm glad to see you here. It seems Brad Stanton has invited himself over for Nicky's birthday," Adam said.

"Adam would you leave? Everyone else here has been invited to Nicky's birthday party," Janey said tightly, suddenly at the end of her patience.

Adam looked at Janey startled, "Janey?"

"I think Janey just asked you to leave," James said in a firm voice.

Adam glanced at Janey who was looking away from him. "I'll come back later when we can talk Darling," Adam said gently and walked towards his car.

Janey turned and headed towards the front door. Her hand was shaking as she reached for the doorknob and she fumbled for a moment before managing to open the door. She headed straight towards her room to check on Nicky.

In her room she sat down on the edge of her bed and stared at Nicky who was still sleeping.

What did I ever see in Adam? Janey asked herself silently. He wasn't listening to me. He just kept saying what he thought I would want to hear.

A sound at the door had her looking that way cautiously.

"You okay?" James asked as he walked in and stood looking down at his nephew.

"I'm fine. Nicky's still asleep," Janey said after a few moments silence.

"Let's go out to the lounge room. I think I hear Caro's car coming up the driveway," James said quietly.

Janey got to her feet and followed James from the room almost reluctantly. In the lounge room everyone was having a cool drink and Janey accepted the tall glass of iced tea her mother handed her.

"Where's the birthday boy" Caro asked as she walked into the room. "I got a present for him."

Janey looked at her sister for a few seconds before looking away. 

"Was Adam still outside when you came in," James asked.

"He passed me as he was leaving. Couldn't he stay for Nicky's party," Caro asked.

"He had something else to do," Janey said quickly.

"What could be more important than the birthday party of the son of the woman he is engaged to," Caro asked.

Janey sent her sister a dark look but said nothing; Caro had made it perfectly clear that she thought Janey was mad to have picked Ren over Adam.

A low throaty rumble could be heard. Janey and 'Tanaya looked towards the front door while Brad was glancing at his watch.

"That'd be Ren and the boys," Brad said.

Janey was already on her feet heading for the door.

Outside Janey watched as three big powerful bikes pulled into the shade near the vehicles and were turned off.

Ren was smiling as he took off his helmet and hung it on the handlebars of his bike. He ran appreciative eyes over Janey where she stood just inside the gate as he walked towards her.

"You're looking good today," Ren said huskily before lowering his head for a brief kiss.

"Hey, we can't get past," Matty protested good-naturedly.

"Shuddup lad," Ren pretended to growl but moved aside taking Janey with him so there was ample room for the other two to walk through the gateway.

"Did Brad or 'Tanaya take in a box of presents for Nicky," Brent asked.

"They haven't given him my present yet have they? I want to watch him open it," Matty gushed excitedly.

"Yes they took the presents inside when they got here and they haven't given Nicky any presents but a small one they had for him," Janey said with a smile.

"Good," Ren said with a smile as he put his arm around Janey and they headed inside.

Once they were inside Janey introduced Brent and Matty to the members of her family who hadn't met them formally and made sure the three new comers had a cold drink.

* * * * *

Janey laughed as she used a paper towel to catch the tomato sauce that dripped off the sausage on bread that Nicky was eating. Nicky smiled as he chewed his food and swallowed it before wriggling to get down off Ren's knee.

"Daddy!" Nicky squealed and set off towards Brad at a run.

Marina smiled as she watched her grandson happily playing among the adults as they ate. She glanced at her husband's face and saw him smiling with approval as 'Tanaya lifted Nicky onto Brad's knee so he could drink out of the cup Brad held for him.

"Nicky's going to end up spoilt," Jim said softly.

"Not spoilt," Marina replied just as softly, "Well loved,"

"I'm going to get a drink. Anyone else want one?" Janey asked as she got to her feet.

"I'll come and get one as well," Ren said.

"I can get it. You finish your food," Janey said with a smile.

"Can you bring your father and I a drink as well?" Marina asked.

"Yes. The usual," Janey asked.

"I'll come and give you a hand. We can grab enough drinks for everyone," 'Tanaya said getting to her feet.

"Let's get to it then," Janey said and led the way towards the back door to the kitchen.

"Nicky's having fun," 'Tanaya commented as she opened the door while and stopped to pick up Nicky who had ran after them.

"'Naynay," Nicky said and fluttered his eyelashes at her.

"What do you want Mr Cookie Monster?" 'Tanaya asked as she tickled the picture of the character on his shirt.

"Jink, jink," Nicky said as he looked around with interest in the kitchen.

"I don't know whether you're a bottomless pit or a tank," Janey said to her son while she poured him a drink of water.

"Both I think," 'Tanaya laughed then was silent as she listened intently. "Is that a car?"

Janey walked to the front window of the house and looked out. She frowned when she saw Adam had returned and glanced back over her shoulder where 'Tanaya had followed her.

"I'm going to go and tell him I want him to leave," Janey said as she headed for the door.

Adam was just inside the gate when Janey walked out to meet him. She stopped several steps away from him and frowned in annoyance as she saw the hopeful smile on his face.

"How about we go for a drive so we can talk without interruption," Adam said with a nod towards his vehicle.

"I don't want to Adam. Besides Nicky's party hasn't finished yet," Janey said tightly.

"I know it must be hard having to have Brad here for Nicky's sake but there won't be any need for him to keep seeing Nicky once we sort..." Adam's voice died away as he looked past Janey.

Janey turned her head to see what had attracted his attention and saw that 'Tanaya had followed her outside.

"Would you leave so Janey and I..." Adam began angrily.

"Where do you get off telling my friends to go away?" Janey demanded hotly.

"I can't believe you are naïve enough to have someone like her as a friend!" Adam snapped.

"And you're Mr Squeaky clean? Showing locked files to people and trying to cause trouble?" 'Tanaya demanded angrily.

"You shut up and keep out of this. It's between Janey and me!" Adam snapped as he pushed past Janey to stand toe to toe with 'Tanaya.

'Tanaya shifted Nicky to her other hip and stepped back from Adam putting herself between him and Nicky. 

Nicky grizzled and clutched at 'Tanaya's shoulder.

"Give Nicky here, you're upsetting him. Can't you see your son doesn't like her?" Adam demanded as he reached out and attempted to take Nicky from 'Tanaya who stepped back hurriedly.

Nicky screamed and started crying loudly as Adam pulled him from 'Tanaya's arms roughly.

'Tanaya let Nicky go rather than chance having him hurt as Adam snatched him from her.

"Mummummum! 'Naynay! Daddaddaddad," Nicky shrieked as he waved his arms and legs wildly.

"Nicky!" Janey was dimly aware of the word hurting her throat but she wasn't aware she had screamed it as she stepped forward reaching for her son.

* * * * * 

Ren got to his feet, he had an uneasy feeling he couldn't pinpoint the cause of as he looked around.

The sound of a vehicle pulling to a stop near the house got James and Robby to their feet with a quick exchanged glance. They headed around the side of the house while Ren was headed for the back door to the kitchen.

James and Robby had made it to the front corner of the house when they heard Nicky screaming in front of the house. They broke into a run and rounded the corner in time to see Adam grab Janey by the upper arm and try to drag or steer her out the gate while holding Nicky, who was struggling and screaming wanting to go to his mother, in his other arm.

James could hear Janey's voice raised; it was shrill with fear as she stepped closer to Adam reaching for her son.

The front door of the house burst open and Ren rushed out, reaching full speed as he crossed the veranda in huge strides. He raced along the path dodging around 'Tanaya and slowing to a walk as he reached the gate.

"Give Janey her boy and let her go," Ren snarled the command as he clenched his hands at his sides.

Such was the power of authority and command in Ren's voice, Adam stopped and looked at him giving Janey a split second to grab for Nicky. Adam tightened his hold on Nicky in reflex as Janey tried to take the startled boy from him. Nicky shrieked in pain and Janey screamed in fear for her child.

Realising he was hurting the child, Adam let go with a worried glance at him.

Janey hugged Nicky close as she backed away hurriedly. She wanted to get out of Adam's reach and away from the waves of violence radiating off the two men facing each other.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Adam demanded angrily.

"Who the hell do you think you are putting your hands on Janey and Nicky," Ren snarled.

"I'm not the bastard who abducted her and raped her," Adam shot back.

Ren's temper snapped with the implied insult and he stepped forward barely stopping himself from hitting the other man. "You're not welcome here," Ren said, ice nearly dripping from his voice.

Adam let fly with a right hook that rocked Ren back on his heels, following up with several left jabs.

Janey clutched Nicky close and stumbled backwards as fists began to fly. A hand closed over her upper arm where Adam had grabbed her in a bruising grip as he tried to get her to get in his car. She looked over her shoulder fearfully as she tried to jerk free only to find it was 'Tanaya who had hold of her.

"Get away from them," 'Tanaya said as she pulled Janey well clear. She could feel the shudders running through Janey before she released her arm. 

'Tanaya looked around frantically and was relieved to see Brad, Brent, Matty and Jim rushing around the corner of the house not far behind James and Robby who were racing across the front yard. A quick glance at Adam and Ren told her it wouldn't be an easy task for the others to separate them.

"Is Nicky okay?" 'Tanaya asked Janey who was checking him frantically while trying to watch the fight as well.

"I think he is, I think he is," Janey sobbed and flinched as Adam landed a solid punch to Ren's ribs.

"Come on you pair, back even further," Brad ordered as he stopped beside them. "It's going to be a madhouse when them pair are separated."

Janey allowed Brad to move her further away all the while watching the fight, flinching every time it seemed Adam landed a good punch. 

"Come on you two! Break it up! Enough fighting!" Jim yelled while Robby and James were positioned where they could hopefully grab hold of Adam while Matty and Brent were ready to grab Ren.

"Stop it!" James yelled again.

Ren heard Janey's father yelling and backed up a step but Adam followed him relentlessly. He felt a satisfying jolt as his right fist connected with Adams ribs.

"Gabriel! Stop it!" Janey screamed amid her sobs.

Janey's voice reached him and Ren glanced towards her instinctively. He didn't see the punch that caught him from behind as his head was turned and bright lights exploded before his eyes as his knees buckled.

Janey saw Adam hit Ren in the back of the head and then Ren started to go down as if he had been poleaxed.

"No, no, no, no, no." Janey screamed as she pushed Nicky into 'Tanaya's arms. She felt Brad attempt to grab her around the waist but she pushed away from him and raced towards Ren as Adam drew back his foot and kicked him in the ribs as he hit the ground. 

"Stop it! Damn you Adam stop it!" Janey screamed as she rushed to Ren where he was struggling to right himself so he could get back to his feet.

Adam looked at Janey dazed and took a step back and then Robby and James were there grabbing his arms and forcing him back up against his vehicle.

"Gabriel, Gabriel," Janey sobbed as she dropped to her knees beside Ren who was still struggling groggily to get to his knees. She placed her hands on his chest to try to stop him.

"Stay down mate, you've been King hit," Brad said with concern beside her shoulder as he pushed Ren down onto the ground.

"Janey, Blondie," Ren muttered dazed as he reached towards the fuzzy outline he could see.

"I'm here, I'm here. Gabriel, you scared me," Janey sobbed as she stroked his face lightly, unconcerned she was getting blood on her hands as the concern for his well-being overrode all else.

Ren grunted softly and stopped struggling as he managed to get hold of one of her hands. He held it loosely while she continued to run her hands over his jaw gently.

"That bastard's going to jail! I'll make sure he spends the rest of his time behind bars like the animal he is!" Adam yelled as he struggled against Robby and James.

"No! No you won't," Janey yelled as she jumped to her feet and rushed over to face Adam. "You hit him first! And I LOVE him! I mean really love him! I'm in love with him. I don't just love him as a friend like I did you!"

"Dad, call triple O. We need the police and an Ambulance," Robby said firmly from where he held Adam.

All the fight left Adam as Janey's words crashed down on him. Janey, the woman he loved, loved someone else. Pain hit him as Janey took another step closer.

"You leave my Lover alone!" She snarled at him so angry tears where streaming down her face.

Janey tensed as she felt someone slip his or her arms around her waist. She turned ready to fight - it wasn't Gabriel's arms. Her body and mind knew his touch.

"Come on Janey. Come back and keep Ren quiet," Matty said softly near her ear.

Janey gave Adam one last glare before letting Matty pull her away. She hurried back to Ren who was attempting to sit up despite both Brad and Brent stopping him.

"Gabriel!" Janey dropped to her knees beside him and caught his hand.

Ren gave a soft sigh and stopped fighting; he allowed the others to settle him on the ground.

"Nicky, how's Nicky?" Ren demanded suddenly.

"He's fine. A bit bruised and shaken up but he's right here and fine," Brad said.

"Janey," Ren whispered and felt her soft touch against his face. It hurt to try and focus his eyes and his head was aching fiercely.

"I'm here Gabriel," Janey murmured and brushed her lips against his gently.

It seemed to take forever as Janey waited for the Ambulance as she held onto Ren's hand; Ren who was so strong and solid was helpless on the ground. She bit back a sob as she lifted his hand to her face and rubbed her cheek against it before pressing a kiss to his fingertips.

"I'm sure he'll be fine," Brad said quietly beside her. "He's got a head like a rock."

"Can I sit up now?" Ren asked after a while.

"You'd be smarter to stay flat on your back. I think he nearly knocked you out," Brad said quietly.

"Only nearly?" Ren said with a snort and grimaced when it made the throbbing in his head worse.

Finally the ambulance arrived followed closely by two police cars. The ambulance officers came over and started to check Ren out.

"Look at Nicky first. That bastard was manhandling him," Ren said trying to push them away.

Janey remained kneeling beside Ren and watched as the ambulance officers checked Nicky who was clinging to 'Tanaya and sucking his thumb. When the officers announced him fine except for some slight bruising she sighed in relief and smiled at Ren who was watching her.

"Your turn now," Ren said firmly. "He was manhandling you too."

"I don't want them to touch me," Janey recoiled from them.

Ren gripped her hand more firmly and struggled into a sitting position. "I'll be right here with you," he promised.

Janey nodded and held still while the ambulance officers checked her arm for any injuries other than bruising. With a verdict of bad bruising and the application of a cold pack Janey moved back slightly so they could attend to Ren.

After a quick check they announced he needed to go to hospital for further checks as he was suffering from the after affects of the hard blow.

"I'm going with him," Janey announced worriedly as he was placed on a stretcher.

"Janey, you stay here with Nicky, he needs you. I'll go to the hospital with Ren and ring to let you know how he is. If you try to go with him he'll only kick up a stink because you're not with Nicky," Brad told her firmly.

Janey glanced at Ren who gave a brief nod then grimaced as the movement hurt his head.

"Okay, I'll stay here with Nicky but you call me as soon as you know anything," Janey warned sternly. She glanced past Brad and was surprised to see both of her brothers there.

"You ready to head off now Brad? One of us will drop you off at the hospital on our way to the police station. You guys can drop by there later," Robby said quietly.

"Going to throw my arse in jail away from your sister huh?" Ren asked with a tight smile.

"And have Janey stomp on us?" James shot back, "Get real."

"We're going down to get what happened on record, just to be safe," Robby said and glanced at where Adam was in the back seat of one of the police cars.

Janey watched as Ren was wheeled to the back of the ambulance and loaded in. Realising she had never told him how she felt she raced towards the vehicle before they could shut it.

"I just gotta talk to him for a second," Janey declared as she scrambled into the rear of the ambulance before they could stop her.

"Hey Blondie," Ren said tiredly, "you're supposed to be staying here remember."

"Yes I remember, " Janey said, her eyes searching his face worriedly. "I just wanted to tell you I love you."

"I know Darling, I know. You've just been too scared to tell me," Ren whispered softly as he smiled at her. "I love you too."

Janey pressed a gentle kiss to his lips then backed out of the ambulance reluctantly. She stood watching as the back was closed and then the officers climbed in the front and drove away slowly and carefully.

"He'll be okay," Brent said as he and Matty came to stand beside her.

"It's getting cold out here. Nicky should be inside," Matty said quietly.