You Have It All Wrong Three

By SaraUK

 

Part 33

Chapter 79

    Amy woke up feeling a little weird, she still couldn’t fully remember everything, but most of it was back now. She still couldn’t help checking herself out in the full length mirror on the back of the door in her hospital room. Amy was stood posing when a nurse knocked on the door and walked in before Amy could stop posing.

     “Don’t worry Amy, you still look beautiful?” The nurse said with a grin as she entered the room with a tray of food for Amy to eat. “Now come and sit down over here and eat what you can of this.” She added as she put the food down on a table that was in the room.

     “I’m sorry, but I still find it strange to find out that I’m a woman now.” Amy grinned as she walked over and sat down at the table so she could have her breakfast.

     “I thought you had your memories back now Amy? Are you still having trouble remembering, or have you started to forget again?” The nurse asked looking worried.

     “No, I still remember having all the work done, but I can also remember being Andy again as well, just like it was yesterday.” Amy had a strange look on her face as she said it.

     “How does that make you feel Amy?” The nurse asked.

     “I feel happy that I’m now a girl, but I still have some of Andy’s feelings as well now to go with it.” Amy said just before she started eating her bacon and eggs.

     “Do you feel like you might have made a mistake then now Amy?” The nurse asked.

     “No! I’m just glad I finally had something good happen in my life.” Amy said looking all excited about having a wife and her sister back in her life, but also having a best friend like Chrissy, and a whole bunch of other sisters and friends.

     “I’m glad to hear that dear.” The nurse smiled. “Just buzz if you need anything, and I’ll be back later to collect your dishes.” She added just before leaving Amy to eat her breakfast in peace.

    Amy suddenly felt very alone sat in the room eating her breakfast, she had a feeling that this was not normally the case, then all of a sudden she had a head full of memories with her sat in a large kitchen with Chrissy, Amber, Ann and some other girls she couldn’t put faces to yet, but she knew them very well, or so she thought. Amy finished her breakfast and then picked up a magazine Ann had left her with the day before, and she sat readying while she waited for the doctor to turn up and take her down for these tests they wanted to run.

*****

    Brad pulled up outside the main entrance to the hospital, so Becky wouldn’t have to walk as far. “I’ll catch up to you at Amy’s room once I’ve parked up.” He said as he helped Becky get out. Amber was already out and stood waiting to help Becky.

     “Thanks for all the help Brad.” Becky said with a smile as he put her on the ground and made sure she had her feet before letting go.

     “No problem boss, just happy to do my little bit to help.” Brad smiled back. “I’ll let Amber show you the way to Amy’s room.” He added as he looked at Amber.

     “Okay Brad, we’ll see you up there in a little while then.” Amber said eager to go and see her wife, and see how she was doing today. She was soon taking a slow walk into the hospital with Becky waddling along beside her.

    After two stops along the way so Becky could use the toilet, they made it to Amy’s room just to find her not in it. “I’m sure this was the room she was in when we left her last night.” Amber said with some panic in her voice.

     “I’m sure she’s just off having some tests done, or she’s gone for a walk around. It must get pretty boring being sat around in these places.” Becky said as she tried to help Amber calm down.

     “You’re right Becky. I’ll just go and ask a member of the nursing staff where she might be.” Amber said after taking a deep breath to calm herself down again. Then she helped Becky take a seat at the table in the room before she wandered off to find someone to talk to.

    Becky was still sat waiting when Amber returned a couple of minutes later, looking much happier with herself. “I trust the smile means you’ve found out where Amy is?” Becky asked.

     “Yes, you were right; Amy’s gone for some tests and should be back very soon.” Amber said as she sat down next to Becky. “They said if the tests go well, she might be able to go home again today.” Amber added with a grin.

     “That’s great Amber. I hope that all the tests come back okay then.” Becky was happy to hear that news, as it would mean Chrissy feeling better having Amy back under the same roof as the rest of them.

    Amber suddenly jumped up looking excited when she saw the door open, but she soon looked sad again when she saw it was only Brad entering the room. “Amy not here?” Brad asked.

     “No she’s having some tests done to make sure that there’s no permanent damage.” Amber said with a little frustration in her voice. “They’ve said that if the tests are good, then Amy can come home today.” Amber added sounding a little happier.

    Becky and Brad had to put up with Amber getting more and more frustrated for the next fifteen minutes before they saw Amy walk into the room. Amber jumped up and ran over to give Amy a hug just before kissing her.

     “Do I know you miss?” Amy asked when Amber broke the kiss.

     “Amy! It’s me Amber, your wife.” Amber said looking worried that Amy had forgotten even more since they left her the night before. “Please don’t tell me you’ve forgotten who I am?” Amber pleaded.

     “Amber?” Amy said as she tapped a finger to her lip with a thoughtful look on her face. “I don’t remember ever knowing anyone called Amber.” Amy added, but she was trying to hide a smirk as she said it, which wasn’t missed by Amber.

     “You little witch!” Amber said as she playfully slapped Amy on the arm. “You’re just teasing me, aren’t you?” Amber asked as she threw her arms around Amy again, happy that she hadn’t forgotten her again after all.

     “I’m sorry my love, but I just needed to have a little fun after being prodded and poked for the past hour and a half.” Amy pouted when they stopped hugging again.

     “That wasn’t nice Amy.” Amber moaned. “I really thought you’d forgotten me again.”

     “Sorry. Hi Brad, Becky?” Amy asked if it was Becky more than just saying hi to her.

     “Hi Amy, yes its Becky.” Becky smiled as she struggled to get to her feet and give Amy a hug, or as much of a hug as Becky could manage being so heavily pregnant. “How are the memories?” Becky asked.

     “Hard to say really, but I do feel like I remember most things now, but I just can’t see some faces on some of the people I know, which is annoying.” Amy frowned. “Like I knew you were Chrissy’s wife last night, but I couldn’t see your face when I thought of the things we’ve done, but once I saw you just now, it all fell into place for me.” Amy added with a grin, just before hugging Becky again.

     “That sounds so scary. Not being able to remember what people look like, but having memories of doing things with them.” Becky said as she hugged Amy back.

     “Trust me, it is sis.” Amy giggled as she got another hug from Becky. Amy giggled some more when she felt the babies kick her. “I see the twins are still as active as ever?”

     “Yes, they know the sound of their Aunty Amy’s voice, just like they know mine and Chrissy’s.” Becky said as she put both hands on her belly as it moved around.

     “How is Chrissy? I know how she loves to worry about me.” Amy asked.

     “She’s fine, didn’t want to go to work today, but Mandy said she couldn’t get all the work done on her own.” Becky sighed. “They will both come and see you later in the day, on their way home from work.” Becky added with a smile.

     “Do you remember that you work with Chrissy and Mandy at the shop?” Amber asked.

     “Yes I remember all that, but Mandy’s face is still out of focus.” Amy said looking frustrated at not being able to remember Mandy’s face.

     “It will all come back to you Amy, just give it a little time.” Becky said in a soothing voice. “I think you’re doing really well for saying you couldn’t remember anything last night.” Becky added looking impressed at how far Amy had come in such a short time.

     “How did the tests go babe?” Amber asked, hoping to cheer Amy back up again, and get her thinking about other stuff.

     “I think they went okay, but I’ll have to wait and see what the doctor says later.” Amy shrugged. “They put me in a big machine and said they were getting a scan of my brain. Guess that proves I do have one then.” Amy giggled.

     “I was beginning to have my doubts after that stupid stunt on the bouncy castle.” Amber frowned, still not happy with Amy for almost killing herself over something so stupid.

     “I’m sorry, but I still can’t remember how I got hurt.” Amy said, but Amber could see that she was lying to her, and she remembered exactly how she got hurt.

     “That seems very convenient doesn’t it?” Amber said.

     “Yes. Doc said I might never remember being so stupid.” Amy grinned. “Probably for the best though. Don’t want to keep having nightmares about that do I?” Amy added.

     “Why do I get the feeling that you’re going to keep milking this amnesia thing for some time to come?” Amber asked looking suspiciously at Amy.

    Amy just smiled at Amber before she turned to greet Brad, who had just been sat quietly letting the three girls talk up until now. “Hi Brad. Thanks for coming to see me again.” Amy grinned as she walked over and gave him a hug.

     “I’m just glad to see you still with us, in more ways than one.” Brad grinned.

    Amber could see that Amy was going to keep changing the subject every time she brought it up, so she just let out a sigh and walked over to the table and sat down, just before she pulled Amy down onto her lap.

     “I love you baby.” Amber said just before she kissed her.

     “I love you more.” Amy grinned back after the kiss.

    Amber grinned back at her, this was the Amy she knew and loved. “Please try to be more careful next time.” Amber said as her last word on the subject.

     “I promise my love.” Amy said just before she kissed Amber again.

*****

    Chrissy and Mandy were both helping each other to get the changing service orders sorted out, but they both missed not having Amy there to help them.

     “I’d forgotten how much harder it was with just the two of us sis.” Chrissy sighed.

     “I know what you mean baby sister, but you just have to deal with it and get the job done.” Mandy said as she put a couple more items down on the counter so Chrissy could check them off the list. Mandy was used to there just being two of them to sort out the orders and run the shop floor, due to having to do it for over eight weeks when Chrissy ran away from Becky. Not that Mandy was going to say anything about that now.

    Chrissy could see how well Mandy was coping with it just being the two of them, and she wondered why she was, but then it hit her as to why, and she felt really bad again for what she’d done to them all by running away like she did.

     “I’m sorry Mandy. I’m so very sorry.” Chrissy said as she looked upset with herself.

     “Sorry for what?” Mandy asked as she looked around to see what Chrissy might have done wrong, but not finding any reason for the apology.

     “I left you and Amy to struggle like this for all that time while I was away.” Chrissy said close to tears. “I’m such a bad person. Why do you all put up with me?” Chrissy asked as she finally broke down and started sobbing.

     “You’re not a bad person Chrissy.” Mandy said as she ran over and pulled Chrissy into her arms. “Maybe a little foolish at times, but not bad.” Mandy added as she rocked back and forth with Chrissy in her arms.

     “Do you think I’m being foolish now then sis?” Chrissy sniffled.

     “I little bit, but you have every right to be worried about Amy. I’m surprised to hear you still going on about the other stuff though; I thought we sorted that out months ago now.” Mandy said as she handed Chrissy a tissue so she could dry her eyes.

     “It’s just working here today without Amy brought it all back, and the time before she joined our family.” Chrissy said with a little giggle as she thought about all the fun things they had done since Amy joined them.

     “I know what you mean sis. I still wonder how I lived before you walked into my shop that day all them years ago now.” Mandy smiled just before she pulled Chrissy back into a hug.

     “I’m glad I found you sis.” Chrissy almost purred as she let Mandy hug her.

     “As am I, but we better see about getting on, or we’ll never be finished by the time Linda turns up to collect the orders.” Mandy said as she looked over at the half finished order for the changing service.

     “Okay sis, sorry for the trouble.” Chrissy said looking all serious when they broke the hug.

     “I think you better go and fix your makeup first sis.” Mandy giggled as she pointed at Chrissy and then pointed towards one of the mirrors on the wall for Chrissy to take a look at herself.

    Chrissy looked and had to let out a little scream when she saw that all her makeup had run down her face, making her look really scary. “I see what you mean.” Chrissy said as she ran off to grab her purse before going up stairs and fixing her makeup.

    Mandy just giggled as she watched her sister run off to fix her makeup, then she walked back to the counter and carried on sorting the orders out on her own until Chrissy returned looked as good as she had before the breakdown.

    Chrissy was just making a start on the internet orders a little later when she heard Mandy let out an excited squeal just after hearing the doorbell sound to let them know that a customer was in the shop. Chrissy poked her head out to find Carl stood with a basket of food in one hand, and Mandy now wrapped in the other one as she tried to suck Carl’s face off. Chrissy giggled as she wandered down the shop and relieved Carl of the basket, so he could use both hands to grab hold of Mandy.

     “Hello Chrissy. Thanks for taking the basket off me just now.” Carl smiled as he entered the back room with Mandy at his side.

     “Hi Carl. You’re welcome; it looked like you had your hands full as it was.” Chrissy giggled as she looked at Mandy. “I’m not sure if you realise this, but I think she misses you when you’re not together.” Chrissy added in a fake whisper.

     “No I hadn’t realised that Chrissy. I was beginning to think she might be getting bored with me.” Carl said in mock horror.

    Mandy never spoke; she just turned Carl to face her before she planted a big kiss on his lips as she pulled him close to her. “You’ll be the first to know if and when I ever get bored with you my love.” Mandy purred when she stopped kissing him.

     “I hope I never find out then princess.” Carl grinned back at her, just before he ran his tongue across his lips to taste Mandy still on them.

     “You’ve never disappointed me yet.” Mandy smiled. “Now let’s eat, or Chrissy and I will never get done in time to go and see Amy.” Mandy added in her bossy big sister way.

    Chrissy and Carl filled up their plates and then made a start on their lunch. Chrissy wasn’t going to miss out on going to see Amy, so she was soon finished and got back to work while Carl and Mandy spent some time together while they washed and dried the dishes they’d used with their lunch. Chrissy and Mandy helped Carl load up his car with the orders for the changing service and then waved to him as he drove away. They were soon working together and sorting out the internet orders.

*****

     Amy was just picking at the thing the nurse had called her lunch when she saw Jayden and Callum enter the room. It took her a couple of minutes to remember their names, but once it all came to her, she could remember the two of them. The thing Amy did remember was the smell coming from the large basket Callum was carrying.

     “Is that from the hotel?” Amy asked with hope in her eyes. She may have forgotten something’s, but that smell wasn’t one of them. She had a sudden flash of sorting out lunch at the shop when someone brought a basket just like this one.

     “It could be, but to get any of it, you have to remember who we are first.” Jayden said with a grin.

     “Jayden and Callum!” Amy grinned as she pushed the plate aside and held out the hands to get the basket of food from Callum.

     “I’ll sort it out baby, just rest up and wait.” Amber said as she got up from the table and let Callum place the basket on the table so she could sort it out.

    Jayden had asked for enough food to feed a small army, so there was plenty to go around them all twice over. The food that Amber started pulling out the basket looked allot more edible than the hospital food had. Amy couldn’t even talk Brad into helping her eat it, and he would pretty much eat anything if he was hungry enough.

     “I hope you didn’t mind me bringing food?” Jayden asked with a grin, already knowing the answer from the way everyone was tucking into it all. “I’ve heard that hospital food isn’t always that good.” Jayden added as she looked at whatever it was on the plate that Amy had pushed to one side.

     “You’re a life saver.” Amy mumbled around a mouth full of food.

     “Nice to see you haven’t forgotten how to eat then baby sister.” Jayden giggled as she watched Amy put another mouth full in before she’d swallowed the first one. “How is the memory now?” Jayden asked.

    Amy just gave her a thumbs up to say it was okay. She had way too much food in her mouth now to even try and make a sound that anyone would understand. Jayden just smiled and then let Amy carry on eating her lunch, as she ate hers.

    They had all just finished when they saw two little girls run into the room. One was Cathleen and the other was little Kat. Both of them stopped and looked at Amy sat on the bed.

     “Hello little girls, and who might you be?” Amy asked as she looked at the two of them. Amy knew who they were, but she was feeling playful again now she’d had some real food.

     “She really forgot who’s we are.” Kat said to Cathleen.

     “Mummy warned me this could happen.” Cathleen said to Kat. “We have to help her remember us.” Cathleen added as she held Kat’s hand and walked slowly over to the bed.

    Brad was sat close by, so he picked each girl up and sat them on the bed facing Amy, who was now sat crossed legged looking at the two girls with a puzzled look.

    Hope was looking after Cathleen for Jenna while Cathleen was on holiday from school. Both little girls had been nagging Hope and Faith to bring them to see Amy, so she had finally given in, and her and Faith had brought them. They walked into the room and looked worried when they saw that Amy didn’t remember them, but they soon smiled when they realised that Amy was just playing with them.

     “Let me see if I can guess who you both are.” Amy said as she looked to be deep in thought as she tapped a finger to her lip. “I think you’re called Cathleen.” Amy said as she pointed at Kat.

     “I not Cathleen!” Kat said with a giggle. “She Cathleen.” Kat added as she pointed at Cathleen. “I called Kat. Silly.” Kat giggled some more.

     “I think you’re trying to trick me. I know that you’re not a cat, you don’t have pointy ears, or a tail.” Amy said as she touched Kat’s ears and then looked behind her to prove that she didn’t have a tail either. “So if you’re not a cat called Silly, then who are you?” Amy asked with a suspicious look.

     “My name is Kat; I not say I am a cat.” Kat said with some frustration in her little voice. “I am Kat with a kicking K.” She added with some pride in her voice.

     “I think I remember now, and I seem to also remember that you like to be tickled.” Amy said just before she pulled Kat closer to her so she could hug her with the cast hand while she tickled the little girl with her good hand.

    Kat was giggling and screaming too much to even try to stop Amy from tickling her. Everyone just sat or stood around smiling as they watched Amy playing with the little girl. Cathleen thought she’d got away with it until she found herself being pulled into it by Amy. As she and Kat both tickled her. It all ended with the three of them in one big giggling pile on the bed.

     “Do’s you really remembers us both Aunty Amy?” Kat asked once she had her breath back.

     “Yes, I was just playing with the two of you.” Amy smiled as she pulled the two girls into a hug with her. “I’m sorry if I scared you yesterday when I fell off the castle.” Amy said as she hugged them both.

     “We’re just glad you’re okay Aunty Amy.” Cathleen said as she let a tear run down her cheek.

     “So am I Cathleen, I was very scared when I woke up and couldn’t remember anything.” Amy said to them both as she broke the hug and then sat up again.

    Jayden and Callum needed to get back to the hotel, and Becky was looking tired, so Brad said he was going to run her home and then come back, but Amber stopped him.

     “I’ll get a lift home with Chrissy and Mandy later Brad, so go home and get some rest, or just crash out at the house for a bit. I’m sure Ann would love to spend some time with you when she gets home later.” Amber said as he was getting ready to leave with Becky.

     “Are you sure you’ll be okay here?” Brad asked, still not sure he shouldn’t just come back anyway.

     “I’ll have Hope and Faith to keep me company for a bit yet. I don’t think Cathleen and Kat have plans to leave any time soon.” Amber giggled as she looked over at the two little girls sat with some marker pens. They were making Amy’s cast look more pretty. Amy looked to be having just as much fun as the two girls were with it.

    Brad gave Amy a quick hug, and then rubbed the two kids on the head before stepping back to let Becky say her goodbyes.

     “I hope you get the all clear baby sister, and you get to come home later, but if you don’t, I’ll come and see you again tomorrow.” Becky said as she gave Amy a hug.

     “Thanks for coming to see me Becky, and for bringing the kids with you.” Amy giggled as she put a hand on Becky’s belly and made them start moving around. Becky let out a groan as this suddenly made her need to go pee again. “Sorry about that sis.” Amy said with a pained look, as she realised what she’d just done.

     “Don’t worry about it baby sister, I’m getting use to it now.” Becky grinned as she put her hands on her swollen belly as it moved around.

    Cathleen and Kat were soon putting their hands on Becky’s belly as they both giggled at the funny way her belly moved. Becky’s belly started moving even more, it was like the babies knew that there were two little people wanting to play with them.

     “Was I’s once dat little mummy?” Kat asked as she looked at her mum sat over in the corner with Amber and Faith.

     “Yes you were sweetie, and I carried you around just like Becky is carrying her babies around.” Hope smiled as she thought about the time she carried Kat in her belly. “I wasn’t quite that big though.” Hope added.

     “Dat cause you only have me’s, but Aunty Becky she be having two of us.” Kat pointed out to her mummy.

    Becky giggled at the way the little girl was trying to defend the reason for her size. “My little hero.” Becky said as she gave Kat a hug and then a peck on the cheek to thank her. Becky then did the same to Cathleen before she walked over and gave Amber, Hope and Faith a hug before leaving to find a toilet and then let Brad drive her home.

    Amber sat with Hope and Faith, as they watched Amy sat on her hospital bed playing with Cathleen and Kat. Amber was happy to see Amy almost back to her old self again. She was snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Hope speaking to her.

     “So is Amy really okay again then?” Hope had been worried when Amy acted like she didn’t remember who Kat and Cathleen were.

     “Yes, she is just having some fun with the whole amnesia things at the minute.” Amber giggled. “She did the same thing to me and Becky when we first got here this morning.” Amber added.

     “She does seem to be acting like her old self again.” Hope smiled as she looked over at her trying to play patter cakes with Kat, but having trouble due to her having one arm in a cast, but she was having a giggle about it.

    Hope and Faith stopped another hour, but left when Amy started to look tired. They promised to come again tomorrow if Amy didn’t go home later today. Amy got hugs off them all before they left and then Amy settled down on the bed with Amber laying down beside her.

    Amber thought they both must have fallen asleep because when Amber next opened her eyes, a nurse was in the room talking in a whisper to a doctor.

     “Sorry about this.” Amber said as she sat up and slid off the bed into the chair at the side of it, looking very sheepish as she did so.

     “Don’t worry about it miss.” The doctor chuckled. “You’re not the first one to fall asleep on a bed with the patient.” He added as he stepped over to take a closer look at Amy, but trying not to wake her up.

    Amber getting off the bed must have woken Amy because she was soon opening her eyes and looking worriedly at the doctor walking toward her. Amy wasn’t quite awake enough to remember where she was, or what the man in the white coat wanted.

    Amy let out a scream and slid away from the man, falling off the bed, but was caught by Amber and pulled the rest of the way onto her lap. “Get away from me!” Amy said just before she turned to see Amber holding her.

     “Don’t worry Amy; it’s just the doctor come to check up on you.” Amber said in a soothing tone of voice as she pulled Amy into a hug.

     “Sorry doc.” Amy said with a cheeky smile as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes. “Didn’t expect to find you looking over me like that when I first woke up.” Amy added.

     “Just imagine how I feel every morning when I first wake up and look in the mirror?” The doctor said with a chuckle. “Do you mind hopping back onto the bed, so I can give you one last check over before we let you leave us?” he asked as he pattered the bed.

     “Sure thing doc.” Amy grinned as she almost leapt off Amber’s knee and back onto the bed so she could be checked over and then let out of the hospital.

    Amber sat quietly and let the doctor run some tests with Amy, and he also asked her a bunch of questions as well, but he looked happy with the way Amy responded and the answers she gave him.

     “I think it’s safe to let you go home Amy, but I want you to come back to the hospital if you start feeling sick, or dizzy for any reason.” The doctor said in a warning voice. “Also if you start forgetting things again.” He added as he wrote down some details on her notes.

     “Don’t worry doc. All my sisters and wife will be keeping a close eye on me, I’m sure of that.” Amy grinned as she realised that she could return home and be with her family again.

     “I’m sure they will.” The doctor said as he watched Amber get up and wrap her arms around Amy in a protective hug. “Please be sure to call the hospital, or get her back here as soon as you can, if she starts acting strange, or drunk.” He added as he looked at Amber this time.

     “You can count on it doc.” Amber said looking very serious.

     “As nice as you’ve been Amy, I hope we don’t meet again.” The doctor said just before he left the room.

     “I’m not planning on it.” Amy giggled.

    Just after the doctor had left, and the nurse had left, so Amy could get dressed. Chrissy and Mandy knocked on the door and then entered the room. “Is it safe to come in?” Chrissy asked with a grin when she saw Amy just sliding off the bed to go and get dressed.

     “Sis! The doc said I can go home!” Amy said with a grin as she ran around the bed and over to where Chrissy and Mandy were both stood just inside the room.

     “That’s wonderful baby sister.” Chrissy grinned as she wrapped her arms around Amy and hugged her.

     “Hi Mandy.” Amy said as she gave Mandy a hug after she stopped hugging Chrissy.

     “So you do remember who I am then?” Mandy asked with a giggle.

     “Yes I do, it’s all coming back to me slowly, but the minute I saw your face, I could remember everything we’ve done together.” Amy said as she hugged Mandy a little tighter. “I’m sorry if I worried you yesterday big sister Mandy.”

     “Don’t worry about it, and just be more careful next time.” Mandy said as they broke the hug, and Mandy started playing the role of the bossy big sister.

    Chrissy and Mandy helped Amber get the few bits gathered up that Amy had amassed in her short stop at the hospital, while Amy went to the bathroom to get dressed. Amy walked over to Chrissy once she was dressed and asked her a favour.

     “Chrissy, can you help me with my makeup? I’m not sure I can remember how to do it.” Amy asked with a pout.

     “Sure sis.” Chrissy smiled as she led Amy over to the table and sat her down. Chrissy went to work and had to use some of her own makeup to get Amy looking beautiful.

     “This feels so good.” Amy almost purred as she let Chrissy work her magic. “I’d forgotten how good this felt since I started doing my own.” Amy added before she realised what she’d said.

     “I thought you just said you couldn’t remember how to do your own makeup?” Chrissy asked in a suspicious tone.

     “I couldn’t, but it just came back to me.” Amy said with a nervous giggle.

     “I think you’re telling lies baby sister.” Chrissy said as she pulled a stray hair out of Amy’s eyebrows. “I would have helped you with your makeup Amy; you didn’t need to lie about it.” Chrissy added sounding hurt.

     “I’m sorry Chrissy, I just thought it would sound better if I made out I still didn’t remember how to do it myself.” Amy said in a whisper. “I also think I would have some trouble trying to do it myself with this stupid cast on my hand and arm.” Amy added as she held up the arm with the cast on it.

     “I used to love helping you with your makeup baby sister, and still do when I get the chance.” Chrissy smiled, just before she gave Amy a quick kiss on the nose. “There you go, all done.” Chrissy said a couple of minutes later.

    Amy took the small mirror Chrissy offered her and she took a look at what Chrissy had done to her. Amy let a grin spread across her face as she saw a floorless makeup job, just like Chrissy always did. “Thanks big sister Chrissy.” Amy said as she wrapped her arms around Chrissy to hug her as thanks for all the help.

     “You’re welcome baby sister.” Chrissy giggled as she hugged Amy back. “I see that your cast got a new look.” Chrissy giggled as she saw all the colour the cast now had, after Cathleen and Kat had got their hands on it.

     “Yes, I think it looks good now.” Amy giggled as she looked at it with all the little rainbows and cat shapes all over it in different colours. “Do you think they will let me keep it when it’s time to have it removed?” Amy asked.

     “I’m sure you can talk them into letting you keep it if anyone can.” Chrissy said as she helped Amy to her feet so they could get her home.

    They soon had all of Amy’s things gathered up, so they all left the room and made their way down and out to Mandy’s car, so she could drive them all home. Amber sent Ann a text message to let her know that Amy was on her way home, and not to bother heading over to the hospital when she finished work.

    Becky and Brad were working on dinner when they got home, so Chrissy and Amber took over after Chrissy led Becky over to the table to sit down. Amy wanted to help, but Chrissy and Amber stopped her.

     “You can take it easy for the rest of today, and I’ll see how you are in the morning.” Amber said as she made Amy sit down again at the kitchen table next to Becky.

    Amy and Becky just looked at each other as they thought the same thing, but neither of them were about to argue with their wife’s about it, so they just sat and watched Amber and Chrissy work on dinner. Amy was distracted when Ann got home from work with Jayden following just behind her. Both Ann and Jayden ran over and gave Amy a hug to welcome her home. Ann then ran over and jumped on Brad’s knee to get a welcome home from him.

    Chrissy and Amber soon had dinner ready, and they all sat down to eat. Amy really enjoyed the meal, it tasted a hundred times better than anything they had given her in the hospital, and it was even nicer than the food from the hotel. Amy felt like her old self again, now she was back home with all her friends and family.

    Amy felt fine the next morning, so Amber let her help with breakfast before they went back up to get ready for work. Chrissy and Mandy wanted Amy to take another couple of days off to make sure she was fully recovered, but Amy wouldn’t have any of it, and she was soon dressed and ready for a day at the shop.

    They left for work and called in to see Holly and Greg on the way, so Chrissy could spend some time with her mum and dad. Amy and Mandy had got used to spending time with their two adopted parents as well. Amy had to sit through a speech from Holly about taking better care of herself while she played around on bouncy castles.

    Greg was his normal playful self and said that he would give her a 5.9 for artistic style, but he could only give her a 2.5 for the landing. This made Amy giggle as she got a hug from him. “I’m glad you weren’t hurt worse than you were Amy.” Greg added as he hugged her a little tighter, not that Amy could feel it. Greg had gotten very weak over the past couple of months, but he made up for it in spirit.

    Amy never had any more trouble with her amnesia, she remembered everything she wanted to, and what she couldn’t remember, never seemed to bother her. So life got back to normal with them all working and then going to the club on a Tuesday and Saturday night. Becky had stopped going to work in the evenings with her being so close to giving birth now. Kara had taken over the running for the club for Becky, but Becky did get the odd call from Kara, when she had a question about something.

 

Chapter 80

    It had been a couple of weeks since Amy had her accident and Brad had been around to help Chrissy and Becky put the babies cots together on the Wednesday morning when everything got a little crazy. Chrissy had just helped Amy and Becky make some sandwiches for them all when they heard Becky make a funny sound just before she spilt something on the floor over near the sink.

     “What you spilt on the floor baby?” Chrissy asked as she turned and saw the large puddle on the floor just where Becky was stood.

     “I think my waters just broke.” Becky said in a calm voice as she leaned against the counter.

    It took Chrissy and the others a couple of seconds to work out what Becky had just said, but when they did, they all jumped into action and got Becky ready to leave for the hospital. Brad was going to drive her and Chrissy over to the hospital, while Amy and Mandy followed in Mandy’s car. Amy was on the phone while Mandy drove, so she could let everyone know that it was time.

    Chrissy went with Becky and the nurses when they got to the hospital, while Brad went to join Amy and Mandy in the waiting area. Ann, Amber, Sara, Cathy, Jayden, Callum. Carl and Vic all turned up to join them as they all waited for the news.

    Becky was in labour for just over ten hours before she gave birth to first a baby girl, then a couple of minutes later to a baby boy. Becky was worn out by the end of it all, but she still smiled when she saw how amazing the two beautiful little babies looked in Chrissy’s arms as she held them both so Becky could see them.

     “You’re amazing Becky, and I love you so much right now.” Chrissy said with tears running down her cheeks. “You made babies.” Chrissy added with a giggle.

     “We made babies my love. We made them together.” Becky smiled back at her.

     “Hello Lauren Holly Clarke and Andrew Gregory Clarke.” Chrissy said as she smiled down at each of the babies now laying in the two hospital cots, ready to be taken up to the room Carl had sorted out for Becky. He didn’t want Becky to be stuck out on a ward, and he also knew that Chrissy wouldn’t be leaving the hospital until Becky left with the babies, so Carl had sorted for an extra bed to be put in the room, so they could both take care of the babies until they got home.

    Becky was asleep and Chrissy was sat on a chair between the two cots when she saw Amy and the others all enter the room. The babies were fast asleep, so everyone kept as quiet as they could when seeing the two little babies for the first time.

     “They’re so beautiful Chrissy.” Amy said as she looked down at Lauren sleeping, just before she looked over and little Andrew.

    Chrissy and Becky hadn’t told anyone the names they had chosen for each baby yet, so Amy had no idea who she was looking at to start with.

     “Everyone, I’d like you all to meet Lauren Holly Clarke, and Andrew Gregory Clark. The two newest members of our ever growing family.” Chrissy beamed as she said it and pointed at each baby in turn.

     “You’re going to call him Andrew?” Amy asked looking hopeful that he was being named after her old male self.

     “Yes we are, and yes he’s been named Andrew after you.” Chrissy smiled as she looked at Amy. “We thought about calling Lauren Amy, but that would just get confusing as she got older, so we decided on your old name of Andrew instead. I hope you don’t mind?” Chrissy asked with a grin, but already knowing the answer.

    Amy threw her arms around Chrissy and hugged the life out of her as a thank you. She wanted to hug Becky, but she was still sleeping. Chrissy got hugs off everyone else as they came over to take a closer look at the babies. They all just found a spot to stand or sit while they waited for Becky to wake up, or the babies to do something.

    They didn’t have to wait long for Lauren to wake up and start crying, which soon set Andrew off. This in turn woke Becky up, but she just smiled as Chrissy passed her Lauren, while she held Andrew in her arms with Amy looking over her shoulder.

     “How are you feeling my love?” Chrissy asked as she looked at Becky rocking little Lauren in her arms.

     “I feel wonderful Chrissy, I finally feel like the happiest woman in the world.” Becky grinned as she looked at the baby in Chrissy’s arms, and then looked at the one she was holding. “I can’t believe we made two new lives.” Becky added as the shock of what she’d done over the past nine months sank in.

     “I hope you don’t mind Becky, but I told them the kid’s names while you were asleep?” Chrissy asked looking hopeful that she hadn’t just upset Becky by telling them all.

     “I don’t mind at all baby.” Becky grinned. “I have three babies to look after now.” Becky added as she looked down at little Lauren still bundled up in a blanket in her arms.

     “Can I help you to look after the two small ones?” Amy asked with a whine.

    Chrissy could see that Amy just wanted to hold one of the babies. “We better get you started then.” Chrissy giggled as she turned to face Amy, so she could pass her little Andrew to hold for a bit.

    Amy had a grin from ear to ear as she took the little baby from Chrissy and then went over to sit down on a chair next to Amber. “He’s just so cute and tiny.” Amy said as she sat holding him.

    Chrissy went over and sat on the bed next to Becky and draped an arm over her shoulder so she could rest her head on Becky’s as they both looked down at the baby girl falling to sleep again in Becky’s arms. “Thank you for making me the second happiest woman in the world.” Chrissy said just before turning Becky’s head so they could kiss each other.

     “I know that it will never be the same as you carrying them and giving birth yourself my love, but I hope this is a close second best for you.” Becky said with a weary smile.

     “I’ve got everything I’ve ever wanted out of life Becky, and it’s far more than I ever hopped to have.” Chrissy said with tears running down her cheeks.

    Becky let Mandy take little Lauren off her, and then Chrissy and Becky smiled as they watched the babies get passed around everyone in the room. Even Brad ended up holding little Andrew for a short time, but he was happy to let Ann have him after five minutes. The baby had looked lost in Brad’s large hands, but he was very gentle with him while he did hold him.

    Chrissy smiled when she saw her mum enter the room a little later in the day with her dad being pushed in by David. Kim and Mable were following just behind. Mandy, Carl, Amy, Amber, Ann, Brad, Jayden and Callum all decided to go and get something to eat then come back later for a little longer. Sara and Cathy had already left with some photo’s to go and show around the hotel. Cathy had promised to go and show Marie some photos, and Samantha wanted to see what the twins looked like.

     “Hi mum, dad. I’d like you to meet Lauren Holly Clarke and Andrew Gregory Clarke.” Chrissy said as she handed Lauren to her mum, and then Andrew to her dad.

     “You used our names as their middle names?” Holly asked as she looked down at the little baby Lauren in her arms.

     “Yes we wanted to let you both know just how much you mean to us both.” Becky said with a smile as a tear ran down her cheek. “I never had a mum and dad before I married your daughter, but I feel like I’ve known you both all my life now, so I thought what better way to show you my thanks than to name them both after you.” Becky added with a snuffle.

     “Thank you Becky, Chrissy. I’m so very proud to have you both as daughters, as I know Greg is as well.” Holly said with a teary smile as she looked at Greg sat in his wheelchair with Andrew cupped in his arms.

    He looks just like you did when you were born Chrissy.” Greg said in a gruff voice thick with emotion as a tear ran down his cheek. “You have two very special parents to look after you Andrew. Trust them with any problems you may have, and I know they will be understanding of them, and will help you to get over them.” Greg added as he looked down at the little baby in his arms.

     “Are you okay dad?” Chrissy asked looking worried as she went over to sit down next to where David had parked her dad’s wheelchair.

     “I’m fine Chrissy, just happy that I got to see my grandchildren before...” Greg couldn’t bring himself to finish saying it. “I’m proud of you Chrissy. I’m so very proud of everything you’ve done with your life. Even after what I did to you.” Greg added with tears streaming down his cheeks.

    Chrissy took Andrew out her dad’s arms and handed him over to Kim, so she could give her dad a hug. “Dad, we had one rough patch, but I still became the person I am in part because of what you taught me while I was growing up.” Chrissy said as she hugged her dad. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be the son you wanted, but I’m also glad that you now see me as the daughter I so wanted to be.” Chrissy was also crying now.

     “All I ever really wanted was for you to be happy, and now I see you are. I’m glad that you found Becky and the others to share your life with, and I am also happy that Holly will get to see grand kids. I just wish I hadn’t been so slow to realise how wonderful you had become.” Greg was gripping onto Chrissy like he was going to vanish if he let go.

     “I’m glad I got to call you daddy, and I’ll have some photos of you holding the babies as well.” Chrissy giggled as she wiped her eye before letting Kim put Andrew back in her dad’s arms. Holly walked over with Lauren and put her in Greg’s other arm so he was now sat with them both.

    Chrissy was soon snapping away on her digital camera making a permanent record of the babies first day. Chrissy had already taken pictures of all the others holding the babies for the first time, and now she took photos of her mum, dad, Mable, David and Kim holding them.

    Prue and Frank were the next to turn up, and Chrissy was soon getting photo’s of them holding the babies as well. Prue not being able to stop being a doctor was soon grilling Becky and Chrissy about any problems that might have cropped up during the births.

     “Did you have any trouble giving birth?” Prue asked Becky as she looked over Becky’s charts.

     “No mum, it all went just fine.” Becky smiled. “I think they wanted out, so they could finally spend some time with their other mum.” She added with a giggle as she looked at Chrissy walking around the room with Andrew in her arms.

     “How are you feeling now?” Prue asked as she put the charts down and took a closer look at Becky.

     “I feel a little empty now, but apart from that, I feel wonderful.” Becky grinned. “Look how happy Chrissy is mum.” Becky added as she pointed at Chrissy.

    Prue turned and looked over to Chrissy as she walked back and forth rocking the baby as it slept in her arms. “That girl was born to do that.” Prue said when she saw how happy Chrissy looked.

     “Do I get the all clear then mum?” Becky asked.

     “Yes you look just fine Becky. Sorry but I just had to make sure they had all done their jobs correctly.” Prue said with a smirk.

     “Always playing the protective mother.” Becky giggled.

     “I’m not the only one doing that these days.” Prue grinned as she looked at Chrissy, as she handed Andrew over to Amy, so she could spend some time with Lauren now instead.

*****

    Over the next four days, Becky got to grips with breast feeding and the hospital could see that the babies were doing okay, so they finally let Becky leave and return home. Chrissy had only left Becky and the baby’s long enough to go home and take a shower before getting dressed in clean clothes and returning to the hospital to carry on helping Becky to look after Lauren and Andrew.

    Carl and Mandy were the ones that would take Chrissy and Becky home with the babies, so they turned up at the hospital in Carl’s car, and then they helped to take all the things and the babies down and out to it.

     “It will be nice to get home and start looking after them without all the nursing staff looking over my shoulder.” Becky said as she sat in the car and took the baby from Mandy, who had been holding it while she got in the car.

    Carl had done the same thing on the other side of the car for Chrissy while she got in. “I bet you feel the same way don’t you Chrissy?” Carl asked as he handed over little Lauren.

     “Yes I will.” Chrissy groaned. Not all the nursing staff had been happy to see that Lauren and Andrew had two female parents. None of them had said anything, but Chrissy could see it in the looks they got from time to time.

     “We’ll soon have you all home, so you can really start taking care of the kids.” Carl smiled as he helped her close the door so they could get away from the hospital.

    Amy and Amber were stood on the doorstep when they pulled up outside the house. They both ran over and opened the backdoors so Chrissy and Becky could hand over the babies while they got out the car. Chrissy and Becky let Amy and Amber carry the babies into the house while they took a steady walk behind them.

     “I’m so glad to finally have the two of you home.” Amy said with a grin, as they made their way to the living room.

     “Don’t you mean the four of us baby sister?” Chrissy asked with a grin. “Or did you just mean the kids?” She asked with a raised eyebrow

     “I meant the four of you.” Amy said realising her mistake. “That’s going to take some getting used to.” Amy added with a giggle as she leaned down and kissed little Lauren on the forehead.

    Chrissy and Becky were happy to let Amy and Amber nurse the babies while they just relaxed together on one of the other sofas for a little bit. They were both drifting off to sleep wrapped in each other’s arms. Andrew and Lauren were doing the same in Amy and Amber’s arms on another sofa.

    Mandy grabbed a blanket and draped it over Chrissy and Becky so they could relax a little more. “I don’t think either of them got much sleep in the hospital.” Mandy said as she sat down next to Carl again on the third sofa.

     “I just don’t think they trusted the hospital to not come and take the babies away while they slept.” Carl said as he looked first at Chrissy and Becky sleeping, then at Andrew and Lauren fast asleep in Amy and Amber’s arms.

     “That’s understandable with some of the horror story’s you read about in the papers, or hear on the news.” Mandy said with a shudder, but happy that they were all home again.

    Chrissy and Becky woke a little later when they heard one of the babies sounding grumpy about something.

     “Someone doesn’t sound very happy?” Chrissy asked as she sat up and looked over and Amy holding Andrew.

     “I’ve tried changing him, but he still won’t settle down.” Amy said as she walked back and forth rocking Andrew in her arms. “I think he wants feeding, and only one of us can do that.” Amy pouted, sad that she couldn’t feed the babies yet, due to them both being breast fed for the time being.

    Becky was soon sat with Andrew feeding off her. She was glad that Lauren was still asleep, so she didn’t have to try and feed them both at the same time. Becky’s breasts had ballooned up over the past couple of weeks, and she knew that she’d have to start using a breast pump to drain some of the milk off so Chrissy and the others could help her feed the babies, but for now this would work just fine.

    Lauren woke up just as Andrew was finishing, so Chrissy let Amy change her and then Becky took over with the feeding while Chrissy got to spend some time rocking Andrew. He was soon drifting off back to sleep, so she let Amber take him, so she could do the same with Lauren.

    Becky just sat and smiled as she rubbed her saw nipples where the babies had been sucking on them. “You look so natural doing that my love.” Becky said as she patted the sofa next to her for Chrissy to come and sit down again once Amy was nursing a sleeping Lauren again.

    Everyone had decided to let Chrissy and Becky settle back in, so no one came to visit that day, but they did start to come the next day. Becky had got some milk stored by now, so she could let some of the others feed the babies, which gave her nipples a break.

    Brad had put the cots together in Chrissy and Becky’s room, so they were close by while they slept at night. Becky would wake and find Chrissy sat nursing one of them to sleep every now and then, but she had never waked to hear the baby crying in the first place.

     “Did I sleep through her crying?” Becky had asked one night when she woke to find Chrissy sat in a rocking chair Carl had brought for them, giving Lauren a bottle.

     “No, I just sensed that she was about to start crying, so I got up and went down to warm a bottle for her.” Chrissy said as she carried on feeding Lauren her bottle.

     “Do you do this a lot Chrissy?” Becky asked. “I’ve been worried that I’m just sleeping through them waking up and crying.” Becky added as she slid off the bed and walked over to kneel at Chrissy’s feet while she watched her feed Lauren.

     “Yes, I seem to wake just before one of them do, so I get up and sort them out while you get a little extra sleep.” Chrissy smiled. “I’m sorry if I’ve been worrying you over it.” She added just before looking down at a sleepy looking Lauren in her arms.

    Andrew started to stir, so to save time Becky picked him up and then sat in the second rocking chair in the room and she let him get his milk straight from the source. “I hope Lauren doesn’t think I’m treating Andrew any differently to how I treat her.” Becky said as she felt Andrew start to suck and nibble on her left nipple.

     “I think at this point they just like to get the white stuff when they moan load enough.” Chrissy giggled.

     “You’re probably right babe.” Becky also giggled as she looked down at the beautiful baby boy in her arms. “You know I was so scared that this would never happen for us in the beginning.” Becky added with a faraway look in her eyes.

     “I always knew we’d have kids Becky, but I just thought we’d be adopting them.” Chrissy smiled back.

     “Oh I always knew we’d have kids my love, but I just didn’t think I’d ever be able to do this with our own children.” Becky grinned at the very thought of the two babies being theirs. “But for them eight weeks while you were away, I began to think that it would just be me sat here like this at two o’clock in the morning feeing them, or it, as I thought it was just going to be the one at the time.” Becky added with a bigger grin.

     “I’m sorry for making you think like that Becky.” Chrissy said with a sigh. “I was stupid to just run away like I did. I should have been braver and faced you about it, but I just couldn’t bear the thought of you being with some man.” Chrissy added with a shudder.

     “I never should have gone through with it like I did. Prue said I should tell you, so you could help me get through it all. I hated myself for what I’d made you think when you ran away.” Becky had tears running down her cheeks as she said it.

     “I think no matter what, I was meant to run away and find Jayden, so I could then help Callum to sort out his life, so I wouldn’t worry about it too much.” Chrissy smiled. “You found me, and we’re sat here rocking two beautiful babies back to sleep, so what is there to cry about?” Chrissy asked.

     “Trust you to see the up side in everything.” Becky giggled as she wiped away the tears on her cheeks.

    They were soon putting the babies back in their cots and then they went and got back in bed themselves. It wasn’t long after that, that they were both fast sleep wrapped in each other’s arms.

*****

    Amy and Amber had took over sorting out breakfast while Chrissy and Becky sorted out the babies, then they would keep an eye on the babies while Chrissy and Becky ate their breakfast. Chrissy was now back at work with Amy and Mandy. Becky would keep an eye on the babies through the day, and then Chrissy would watch them in the evening so Becky could get back to work. Becky was also back driving again now, so she would take the babies out places through the day. She would go and visit with Mable, so Holly and Greg could spend some time with the grandchildren. Becky would also call in at the shop so Chrissy could spend some time fussing over the kids before she returned home to start sorting out dinner for the others. Becky would grab sleep whenever the babies slept, that way she lost out on very little.

    Becky would get home from the club in the early hours of the morning and smile when she saw Chrissy sat in her rocking chair feeding one of the babies. She would get ready for bed, and then get the other one out their cot and feed them before rocking them back to sleep and then laying them down before leading Chrissy back to bed for some more sleep.

    Chrissy still got to the club on a Tuesday and Saturday night, thanks to Holly and Prue. They each took it in turns to help look after the babies, so that Chrissy and Becky got to spend some time together.

    Prue would drive herself home when they got back from the club, or she would just end up spending the night with Chrissy and Becky. Holly always got a lift home again with Vicky when she dropped them off, she would then wait for Holly to go out and get in the people carrier. Mable, David and Kim always kept an eye on Greg while she kept an eye on Lauren and Andrew.

    Chrissy had been spending as much time with her dad as she could. He was already living well beyond the time frame they gave him to live, so she knew that every day was a gift. She would get someone to film every second he spent with the babies, just so they could know their granddad when they were older.

    Becky and Chrissy had just finished sorting out the babies with Amy and Amber’s help one Thursday morning when there was a knock at the front door. Mandy looked puzzled, as they weren’t expecting anyone. She opened the front door and saw Holly and Prue stood there with Vic stood behind them. Both women looking like they had been crying, and so did Vic.

     “I need to have a word with Chrissy.” Holly said in a choked voice.

     “Oh god Holly, I am so sorry.” Mandy said as she started crying, she threw her arms around Holly’s neck as she hugged her.

    Mandy and Holly pulled themselves together again before they made their way to the kitchen, so they could break the bad news to Chrissy. Chrissy was sat watching Amy and Amber rocking the babies when she saw Mandy walk back into the kitchen, followed by Prue, Holly and Vic. She knew right away what had happened and she just let out a scream as she jumped up out her seat, but her legs had turned to jelly, so she just fell to the ground in a heap.

    Becky was soon by her side hugging her, as Chrissy just sobbed like a baby herself. Andrew and Lauren could tell that something was wrong with one of their mummies, so they were soon crying. Amy and Amber took them into the living room out the way, so Chrissy could just get it out her system.

    Holly ran over and fell to the ground next to Chrissy and she pulled her into a hug, taking Becky along with her, and all three of them just sobbed.

     “What happened mum?” Mandy asked with tears running down her cheeks.

     “Vic called me early this morning to tell me that Greg wouldn’t wake up, and he felt cold as stone, so I dashed around and found out that he’d died in his sleep through the night.” Prue said as she started crying herself. Mandy pulled her close and they hugged each other as they sobbed.

    Ann and Jayden had both been up stairs when they heard Chrissy let out a scream, so they both burst into the kitchen looking very worried. No one needed to tell them what had happened, they could tell by the fact that Holly was sobbing on the floor as she held Chrissy and Becky in her arms.

    None of them knew what to say or do, so they just all took a seat in the living room and let the silence speak for them. Chrissy, Holly and Becky pulled themselves together enough to take the babies off Amy and Amber, so they could sit and have a sob as well. They had come to love Greg just as much as Chrissy had over the past couple of months.

    Chrissy and Holly found themselves running on autopilot as they started sorting things out with the babies while the others all sat around looking lost. Even though they knew this was going to happen one day soon, they just kept hoping that Greg would keep beating it.

    Mandy was happy when Carl turned up, and he started talking things over with Prue, and then he took Holly off to one side and spoke with her about things. Holly was grateful that Carl took charge of everything to do with the funeral, she just couldn’t think straight to do any of it.

    Holly was kept busy for the next week helping Becky and Chrissy look after the babies while Carl sorted out the funeral. The day finally came when it was time to cremate Greg. His ashes would be buried in a double plot that Carl had sorted out. Greg and Holly had spoke about it and they both decided that they wanted to be buried together, but they both wanted to be cremated first, so it was just the ashes that got put in the ground. Chrissy was glad she’d have somewhere to take flowers on special days, or she could just go and sit with her dad for a bit and tell him what was going on in her life.

    Hope and Faith had agreed to look after Lauren and Andrew while they went to the funeral, then they would meet them at the Mabel’s where Carl had sorted out for some caterers to put on some food for everyone that wanted to go back there and just mourn the passing of Chrissy’s dad, and Holly’s husband.

    The funeral was going from Mable’s house, so Chrissy and Becky got to spend time with Andrew and Lauren until it was time to go. Chrissy was telling Hope and Faith what to do right up until Becky and Amy had to almost drag her out to the waiting funeral car.

     “Are you sure you’ll be okay looking after them for us Hope, Faith?” Chrissy asked as Becky pulled her along by one arm, and Amy was on the other side doing the same.

     “I do have a child of my own Chrissy, so I’m not new at any of this.” Hope said to reassure Chrissy that she was up to the task. “Just go and worry about saying your final goodbye to your father.” Hope added as she gave Chrissy one last hug before she let Becky and Amy take her out the house.

    Chrissy ran over to be with her mum when she saw her stood crying at the car they would be going in. It was long and black with the look of death about it. Chrissy helped her mum get in, just before she got in herself. She let her mum wrap her arms around her, and they both sobbed all the way to the crematorium.

    Holly and Chrissy took a strange comfort in the fact that so many people had come to pay their respects to Greg. Mandy, Amy, Amber and even Jayden had all chipped in to buy a large wreath that said DAD on it. Chrissy and Becky had got one that said Father. Holly just got a large wreath in the colours of his football team. They all looked nice, but none of them were in the mood to enjoy that part of the day.

    Everyone sobbed when they watched the coffin go into the wall and the curtains closed. They all knew that it was now real, and Greg was gone for good. Holly just let her feet go from under her, but Brad was sat in the row right behind her and Chrissy, just in case such a thing happened, so he was able to catch her and hold her up until Carl and Vic could get around helping to stop her hitting the floor. Carl and Vic helped to get Holly sat down again, then Brad walked around and picked her up in his arms and carried Holly back out to the car.

    They were all heading back to Mable’s now. The burial part of the funeral would take place in a couple of days, once people had had time to come to the crematorium and pay their respects. Chrissy and Becky were glad to be going back to Mable’s, they both wanted to sit and hug their children for a long time.

    Chrissy wanted to run into Mable’s when the car pulled up outside, but she knew that her mum needed some help to get into the house, so Chrissy waited to help her mum out the car, and then they took a slow walk into the house, and then the dining room. Mable with some help from Amy and Amber soon had pots of tea being passed around so everyone could just sit and talk about the day, and what they would miss about Greg.

    Holly found herself wanting to giggle at some of the silly things Greg had said and done since moving down here to be closer to Chrissy and the others. Everyone was shocked when Mable pulled out a disk and said that Greg had wanted it played at his wake. Vic and Brad grabbed the small flat screen TV/DVD player from Cathleen’s room and put it on the table so they could all see it, then Vic put the disk in and pressed play. They all gasped when they saw it was Greg, he’d recorded a message for them all just before he died, or from how he looked it would have been a couple of weeks back now.

     “Hi everyone. I guess if this is being watched, then I finally lost the battle to my cancer.” Greg sighed. “I hope that you’re all having a good laugh and getting drunk? I don’t want anyone feeling sorry for me.” He grumbled. “I want you all to remember the good things about me so have a party and smile!” He chuckled.

    “Chrissy, I know I did some things that hurt you, and I never did forgive myself for doing any of that, but I just want you to know that I died the proudest dad in the world. I also want you to know that you have two of the most beautiful children I have ever seen. I also know that you will be the best parents they could ever want.” Greg wiped away a tear. “One of my biggest regrets will be not seeing them grow up and become the amazing people I know you and Becky will help them to become. I love you so much Chrissy. You made one beautiful daughter, and I was honoured to have you call me dad.” Greg must have pressed pause, because he looked a little different when he next spoke.

    “Hello Holly, my darling wife and best friend. I’m sorry that I’ve had to leave you, but I hope that you will help Chrissy raise my grandchildren the same way you raised our daughter. We both know that everything good in Chrissy came from you more than it did me.” Greg chuckled. “I’m just sorry that my own pigheaded ways kept you apart from her for so many years. I’ve fixed that now, and I know that you will live a fun and happy life helping to look after all my new daughters. Please let them know that I love each and every one of them. Please keep a special eye on Amy for me as well; she’s in serious need of a good mothering figure in her life.” Greg was grinning as he said it.

    “It’s time for me to go now, but I want you all to know that I am finally pain free now, so please try and have a laugh. After all it’s not a funeral; it’s a celebration of my life.” Greg chuckled. “I love you all. Bye!” Greg added just before the DVD ended.

    Holly just sat looking at the blank TV screen for a couple of seconds before she spoke. “He told me he’d have one last thing to say before he was gone, but I never realised that he’d done that.” Holly said pointed at the TV. “He always had to have the last word.” She added with a little chuckle.

     “Are you okay mum?” Chrissy asked as she wrapped an arm around her.

     “I’m fine dear.” Holly smiled. “Like your father just said, we should be celebrating the life he lived, not mourning the end of it.” Holly added as she put her arms around Chrissy and hugged her, just before kissing her on the cheek.

    Chrissy found herself giggling when her mum did that. Her dad wouldn’t want them looking like they did at the minute, he’d want them drinking and having a laugh as they talked about the funny things he’d done since moving in with Mable. So as a last request from a dying man, they all started to have some fun as they talked about the things that they found fun about Greg. Holly was soon telling them stories of how she first met him and then how he proposed.

    The party went on quite late, but everyone had a good time, or as much fun as you can have at a funeral. Chrissy and Becky were glad to get back home, so they could put Lauren and Andrew to bed and then get some sleep themselves.

    Chrissy was lying on her side looking over at the two cots when Becky slipped into bed and spooned up behind her. “How are you doing baby?” Becky asked as she leaned over and kissed Chrissy on the neck as she asked.

     “Right now I’m tired, but I’ll be okay in time.” Chrissy sighed. “I miss him already Becky. I never thought I would say that I missed not having my dad around.” She added with a giggle, but it didn’t sound like a happy one.

     “I know what you mean. I miss him as well, but at least you know that he loved you as his daughter.” Becky wrapped her arms around Chrissy and hugged her as she said it.

     “Yes he did. I’m happy about that, and I’m glad he got to spend some time with his grandchildren before he died.” Chrissy was softly sobbing by the end of her sentence.

    Becky never said another word. She just hugged Chrissy until they both fell asleep. Becky woke when she felt Chrissy getting out of bed a little later, and she could just hear Lauren starting to stir. Becky watched as Chrissy got her up out her cot and then left the bedroom so she could go down and give her a bottle. It was only a couple of minutes later that Becky heard Andrew start to stir, so she slid out of bed and picked him up. “Does my little man want something to eat?” Becky asked as she wrapped the baby in her arms and went in search of Chrissy, so they could sit and feed the babies together.

    Chrissy was just warming the bottle in a jug of hot water when Becky entered the kitchen with Andrew in her arms. “Look who decided to wake up and want feeding.” Becky cooed as she walked over and gave Chrissy a kiss before she sat down at the table and let Andrew start feeding on the already warm milk Becky had on tap.

     “I’ve noticed they seem to wake at the same time.” Chrissy giggled. “Do you think they want us to spend more time with each other?” Chrissy asked.

     “I’d like to think so.” Becky smiled back. “Maybe they like it when we speak to each other while we feed them. They did get very active when you used to speak while they were still inside me.” Becky added with a shrug.

     “Is that true? Do you like the sound of my voice while you feed?” Chrissy cooed as she pulled funny faces at Lauren while she sucked on the bottle Chrissy had just put in her mouth.

    Lauren reached out with her little hand and grabbed Chrissy’s finger as she spoke, as if she was trying to send a signal to tell her yes she did. Andrew started doing the same with Becky, but instead of grabbing Becky’s finger, he just ended up pinching the breast he was sucking on.

     “Only a month old, and already a breast man.” Becky giggled as she held out her finger, so Andrew could grab that instead.

    They sat quietly watching Lauren and Andrew feed for a couple of minutes, then they heard the kitchen door open, so they both looked over and saw a sleepy looking Amy enter the kitchen with Amber being dragged along at her side.

     “Hi Amy, Amber. You having trouble sleeping?” Chrissy asked.

     “Yes, I came down for a drinking chocolate. I didn’t expect to find you two down here though.” Amy said as she walked over to the table and looked down at Lauren sucking on her bottle. “They are just so beautiful.” Amy cooed.

     “Do the two of you want to join us for a mug of drinking chocolate?” Amber sleepily asked from over near the fridge where she’d just got the milk out.

     “That sounds nice, yes please.” Chrissy smiled as she looked over her shoulder at Amber, as she tried to work out what she needed to do next. “I think you better sit and finish feeding Lauren, so I can go and help Amber make the drinks.” Chrissy added as she handed Lauren over to Amy who was now sat in the seat next to her at the kitchen table.

    Amy never one to pass up a chance to spend time with either of the babies, she was soon sat cuddling Lauren in her arms as she carried on feeding from the bottle. “Thanks sis for letting me help.” Amy grinned.

    Chrissy was soon up and helping Amber sort out the drinks, or more to the point making the drinks while she sent Amber over to help Amy feed the baby.

     “Hello there and how’s my little princess doing tonight?” Amy asked in her best baby style voice as she leaned down and gave Lauren a kiss on the forehead.

    Chrissy brought the drinks over to the table, but kept them well away from the babies why they were being fed. Becky let Amber hold Andrew while she had her drink, then Amy and Amber handed the babies back so they could drink theirs.

     They ended up talking about Greg, and how they had all come to love him like a real dad, and it was a shame that he lost his fight with cancer. Chrissy wanted to cry when she thought about losing her dad, but at the same time she was proud of him for touching the hearts of all her friends.

     “Do you think your mum will be alright Chrissy?” Amy asked.

     “Yes in time, but I think looking after all us will help keep her busy until she’s ready to move on.” Chrissy said with a smile as she looked down at Lauren now fast asleep again in her arms. “And you know what dad said about you needing an extra special eye kept on you.” Chrissy added with a grin.

     “I fell of one bouncy castle, and all of a sudden I’m the clumsy one?” Amy whined.

     “Well you did also get hit by a van.” Chrissy pointed out.

     “Yes, but I was saving your life at the time.” Amy argued.

     “A fact that I will always be in your debt for baby sister.” Becky smiled as she gave Amy a kiss on the cheek.

     “I still say it was the best thing I ever did.” Amy grinned.

    Once they had all finished their drinks, they made their way back up to bed for a little more sleep. Amy and amber each kissed the babies on the forehead before making their way down to their own bedroom. Chrissy and Becky got Lauren and Andrew back in their cots and then crawled back into bed for a couple more hours sleep.

*****

    It had been just over a week since the cremation and Greg’s ashes were now ready to be laid to rest in the small plot Carl had sorted out at a local cemetery. Chrissy was glad it was close to the house, this meant she could take the babies for a walk and visit her dad’s grave.

    This part of the funeral was a much smaller affair, as they were just putting a small wooden box in the ground. A priest said a few words, while Chrissy and Holly hugged each other and had a little cry as the box was lowered into the ground. Everyone threw in a hand full of dirt before they left to go home and get warm again.

    They all went back to Mable’s again because Hope and Faith were looking after Lauren and Andrew there with Cathleen and Kat helping. Jenna had gone to see Greg finally laid to rest with Vic and the others.

    It was now the start of December and the weather was bitter cold out. Chrissy and the others had done very little in the way of Christmas shopping, but they were all about to throw themselves into it with a vengeance. Chrissy was hoping that her dad was going to be around for Lauren and Andrew’s first Christmas, but sadly it wasn’t meant to be.

    Holly looked a little lost for a couple of days, but she was soon being roped in to help out with looking after the twins with Becky through the day while the others were all at work.

 

To Be Continued Next Friday  

 

Story by SaraUK

 

Edited and Posted by SamanthaK