The Dark Horse

[LauraPhilly!!]

Hey all!!

As you can see Quiet Achiever had to remove the sneak peak as it was too long!!

So this means, this chapter is going to be quite different than I originally planned because, silly me, didn't keep a copy of the sneak peak I posted a few days ago!

Also, due to the sneak peak restrictions, I've decided to refrain from giving sneak peaks at all and will just post the chapters!!

Thanks!

Hope you enjoy this chapter!!

Sorry again for its difference to the sneak peak!!

Chapter 11: A Precious Life

Waking up the next morning, Iliana couldn't wait any longer.

Jumping out of bed, not caring if she woke Chris, she grabbed her handbag and pulled out the diary.

Pulling the duvet over her again, she flitted throught the pages and began reading.

To her surprise, her Mum had left no personal thoughts on the day.

She had just explained what happened.

Dear Diary....

The machines beeped wildly beside Aden as the surgeons and nurses tried to work on him.

"That spare blood better get hear soon or he's going to crash!" cried the doctor.

"Too late!" cried the nurse, as the machine began beeping furiously.

"BPs dropping! We're losing him," cried another nurse.

"Get the defibrillator in here now!" ordered the doctor.

As the nurses placed the pads on his chest, the doctor pressed down the elctrodes.

"C'mon Aden, stay with me!" as he pressed the buttons, sending an almighty shock through Aden's lifeless form.

*

"Aden.

Aden Jefferies.

The man of my dreams, the guy I thought I would spend the rest of my life with.

The guy who I imagined myself growing old with, surrounded by our children and grandchildren.

You could say every woman hopes for stuff like that.

For a happy ending.

For awhile, I thought I had my happy ending.

But I played with it......and now it's gone.

How stupid I was?

Aden was more than enough for me! Too good in fact.

But I was selfish enough to want more!

I never realised before now how precious life was.

His life, Aden's life was a precious life.

In some ways, I blame myself for this.

I caused this mess, he died a broken hearted man because of me.

I am barely able to live knowing that.

How come it is that he doesn't deserve with be......gone, but yet here am I, his murderer, still living and breathing!

I am so selfish!

I still have life even after what I've done!

It makes no sense!

But, a friend, my sister infact, came to me with some comforting words.

She told me that at least now the angels can take care of my Aden.

These words comforted me some, knowing, hoping, that he is no longer in pain because of what I did to him.

I say I love him, but it means nothing.

To me, it means everything, but, even if I say it a thousand times, he will never come back.

He can't ever come."

Belle saw some people in the audience in tears, some people frowning and some undecided.

She knew what she did was wrong, but she couldn't have left the day pass without saying some goodbye.

And as the men carried Aden's coffin down the aisle, followed by his friends and family, Belle held back.

She watched them though as they carried her true love away.

A tear rolled down her cheek.

Aden hadn't deserved her. He'd deserved much better, but he would never have a chance to know that.

But before the coffin disappeared from out of sight, Belle lifted her fingers to her lips and blew him a kiss.

........."Miss Taylor?"

Belle heard a voice.

"Miss Taylor?"

But that voice shouldn't be there.

But then, Belle realised, her eyes shouldn't be closed either.

"Belle," said a soft voice.

Jamie.

Then Belle realised she had been asleep.

She opened her eyes.

The sudden bright lights blinded her, and she had a sudden flashback.

Aden's coffin being carried down the aisle.

Had all that really been just a dream.

"Miss Taylor?" asked the strange voice again.

"Yes," replied Belle, still a bit dazed.

"You are the friend of Aden Jefferies yes?"

"Yes, yes I am," said Belle, fully alert now. "Is he ok?"

"We've stabilised him," said the male nurse kindly. "He's still in a very critically condition, we're monitoring his head in case he should have any internal bleeding in the brain, but so far all the signs look good!"

"Oh thank God!" cried Belle, in relief.

"Can I see him?"

The nurse hesitated.

"Eh.....the nurses are still clearing him up, we'll let you in in awhile."

"Ok," said Belle, unsurely. "Thanks."

"Oh, he's going to be ok," said Belle, burying her face in Jamie's chest and hugging him tightly.

Jamie hugged for a second and then dropped his arms.

"What's up?" asked Belle, looking up at him

"Eh, Belle, this is the kinda thing that got Aden here in the first place," he said, referring to her arms wrapped tightly around his waist. "Don't you think we've caused enough trouble."

"Oh my God, I guess your right," said Belle, pulling her arms away and instead folding them tightly into her chest.

Then, suddenly, Nicole came running down the corridor.

"Oh my God, I just heard! Is Aden ok?"

"He's ok," said Belle, reassuringly, as Nicole took some deep breaths. "They're making sure he has no internal bleeding, but otherwise the outlook is good."

"Oh thank God!" said Nicole, with a sigh of relief. "How did it happen anyway?"

Belle looked at Jamie uncomfortably. Nicole frowned.

"Belle spit it out! What happened?"

"Eh....it's complicated Nicole!"

Nicole was about to protest but the nurse came out again.

"Are you Miss Franklin?"

Nicole nodded. "Yes, is he awake?"

"Yes, and he'd like to see you!"

Nicole and Belle moved forward at the same time.

"Eh....he just wants to see Miss Franklin."

Belle stopped and looked up at the nurse in shock.

"He doesn't want to see me?"

The nurse shook his head.

"Oh," said Belle quietly.

Jamie put his hands on her shoulders, squeezing her tightly.

Belle didn't know what to feel.

She didn't feel anything....

.....so he wouldn't let me in to see him.

Even though I sat outside him room, crying and screaming his name until security carried me out.

I suppose it's what I deserve.

He's hate me sure.

I would hate me...

Belle.

Iliana leaned back against the bed, and sighed.

Chris opened his eyes and looked up at her.

"You alright babe?"

She smiled at him, and leaned down and planted a soft kiss on his lips.

"Absolutely fine," she said, snuggling up beside him in the bed.

Comments?

x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Sorry for the gap in updates!

I've been busy!

Thanks to Georgia and RR1 for their comments on the last chappie!

Hope you like this one!

Chapter 12: Forgiveness is Divine

"Honey, would you..."

"Shhhh!!" said Iliana, not looking up from the diary.

Chris raised his eyebrows.

"Sorry," said Iliana, seeing his slightly offended expression. "I'm just really into reading at the moment."

"Yeah, I know," said Chris, coming to sit beside her. "It's like you haven't got time for anything."

"Oh honey," said Iliana, running her fingers through her hair. "Are you feeling unloved?"

"No, no, of course not," said Chris, rubbing her leg. "Just, we never seem to talk anymore and I'm just afraid..."

"Afraid of what?" asked Iliana anxiously.

"That you don't want to talk to me," finished Chris, not looking up at her.

"Sweety, I'm sorry," siad Iliana, closing the book and snuggling up beside him. "I guess Mum's diary has just absorbed me a bit. It's not that I don't want to talk to you, I just have nothing to talk about. I'm really fine, trust me."

"I do trust you," said Chris, playing with a strand of her hair. "I was just worried that....maybe, you were falling out of love."

"Gah," gasped Iliana. "That would never happen Chris ever.

He looked at her uncertainly.

"From the moment I felt that weird feeling in my stomach when I was 16, I have loved you. That has never changed and it never will."

Chris smiled, thinking back.

"I remember that day," he said, chuckling. "You went all funny for like a week and then our eyes met and I knew I loved you."

Iliana smiled.

"Christian Johnson," said Iliana, smiling at him. "Can you believe that I dreamed of marrying you from the age of 16?"

Chris chuckled.

"Yes," he said, without hesitation.

"And can you, Mrs Johnson, believe that I almost fainted that time I saw you in a bikini at Olivia Smith's 17th birthday party?"

"Are you serious?" said Iliana, her eyes wide in surprise. "I remember you jumped when you touched my bare back but you said it was just 'coz you were cold!"

"Oh, I was in hot water there!" said Chris, shuddering at the thought. "When you wrapped my arms around my waist, my knees almost buckled!"

"Awww, my poor sweetheart," said Iliana, kissing him lightly.

"You were just so hot, I couldn't believe I was going out with you!"

"Shut up!" said Iliana, rolling her eyes.

"Oh c'mon Illy," said Chris, tickling her. "You know how much you love it!"

"No, no, stop it, stop!!" cried Iliana, squirming around as Chris tickled her all over.

As Iliana lifted her head, Chris quickly claimed her lips passionately.

"How about we do something else instead?" asked Chris, suductively.

"Really?" said Iliana. "You actually want to?"

"Why so surprised?" asked Chris. "You know how much I love it!"

"Yay, ok, go grab the book and I'll read it!"

"Oh that," said Chris, leaning over and grabbing the book.

But as Iliana snuggled up against Chris, with the book open, he sighed happily, knowing that whatever he did with her, made him happy.

"Dear Diary...." read Iliana.

It's Day Three after the accident. Aden is still in the hospital and he still won't talk to me.

Nicole isn't too impressed with me either.

Aden told her what happened. What he saw happen anyway.

Now she won't even listen to me to hear the truth!

Jamie has been amazing though.

I was such a mess the night of the accident, he took me home and put me to bed and everything.

He's totally cool about the friend thing.

How do I know? one might ask, but I can tell.

The lovey-dovey look is like totally gone from his eyes.

He really has been amazing, dunno what I'd do without him.

Mattie has been around though.

Just a short visit. She's staying with me and Irene.

So glad to have her here. Herself and Jamie are the only two who don't judge me.

At least that's what I thought. Mattie has her own opininion of things....

"Belle, what the hell are you thinking?" asked Mattie, incredulous.

"What?!"

"And you wonder why Aden won't talk to you!"

"What, you know why?" asked Belle, suddenly.

"Well it's kinda obvious," said Mattie, shaking her head.

Belle said nothing.

"What you don't know?" said Mattie. "Oh Belle."

"Well are you going to tell me or what?" said Belle, impatiently.

Mattie sighed, exasperately.

"Belle, you have to stop hanging out with Jamie!"

"What, why?"

"Belle, Aden's jealous!" said Mattie. "It's so obvious."

"But, he has nothing to be jealous of," insisted Belle. "There's nothing going on between me and Jamie!"

"Belle, hello like," said Mattie. "Your whole relationship with Aden hangs in the balance because of Jamie! He's the reason Aden won't talk to you!"

"Well, that's just stupid!"

"No it's not!" said Mattie. "Turn the tables around. Would you want Aden to be hanging out with some girl she use to go out with?"

Belle looked down at the floor.

"No," she said, quietly.

"Exactly," said Mattie.

Then, she looked at Belle sadly.

"Honey, I think it's time to tell Jamie goodbye."

Belle looked up at her sadly.

"Yeah, I know," she said. "It'll be so hard."

"Honey, it's not like your breaking up with him."

Belle shook her head.

"No, it will be," she said. "I know I was never really back with Jamie but saying goodbye......Mattie, it's going to break my heart."

"Well Belle, you have to choose," said Mattie. "Which one can't you live without?"

"Aden," said Belle, instantly. "I know that. Aden's always been the one."

"Well then, knowing your making the right decision, should help you," said Mattie.

There was a knock on the door.

"Hey Belle, hey Mattie," said Jamie, walking in with a wide smile on his face.

Mattie looked at Belle, who sighed.

"I have to go," said Mattie, grabbing her jacket. "See ya later Belle."

"Thanks Mattie," said Belle.

"Hey Belle," said Jamie again, kissing her cheek. "What you up to?"

Belle sighed.

"Jamie we have to talk."

.......so, I told Jamie it was over.

Not that it ever really started.

It was still so hard though. Probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

But, now I can begin to move on.

Tomorrow, I'm going to try see Aden.

Try explain to him what happened.

Try to tell him how much I love him.

How I want to spend the rest of my life with him.

Love always Belle.

Chris smiled as he read over the last few words.

Chris looked at Iliana, who was now asleep, her head in his lap.

His smiled and kissed her cheek softly.

"Love you babe," he said quietly. "Forever and ever."

Comments?

x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Hey, sorry for the long gap in updates!!

Exams are next monday so im everywhere at the moment! freaking out too! lol!

Anyway, here's the next chapter!

hope y'all like it!!

Chapter 13:

"Mummy, read me 'Bold Billy' again! Please!" said Abbey, walking over, the book clutched in her little fingers.

"Ok baby," said Iliana, taking the book and lifting Abbey up onto her lap. "Once upon a time, there was a little boy called Billy who didn't want to go home."

"Can I be Billy?" cried Abbey, suddenly, pointing to the picture of the boy.

"Ok, well can I be Mummy then?"

Abbey looked up at Iliana anxiously.

"Will you still be our Mummy though?"

Iliana chuckled and kissed her daughter's forehead.

"Of course I will sweety! I'm just going to pretend to be Billy's Mummy too!"

"Ok," said Abbey, snuggling into her Mother's chest. "It's only pretend!"

Iliana laughed quietly, and turned the page of the book.

"Billy wanted to go to the cake shop instead!"

"I want cakes and buns and pastries," read Abbey, slowly.

"Said Billy, but his Mummy said no," read Iliana. "That little boys and girls only get sweeties at the weekend! Billy cried and cried."

"I want...to...go...and eat....buns," said Iliana.

"But Mummy said no again and took Billy home," said Iliana.

A few pages later, Iliana felt Abbey's head droop as she fell asleep against her chest. Her mouth stretching out in a small 'O', she began snoring delicately as she drifted into a deeper sleep.

Putting the book away carefully, Iliana wrapped her arms around her sleeping daughter and slowly carried her to bed.

After slipping her into her nightdress carefully, Iliana lowered Abbey into bed and tucked her in gently.

She sat and watched her sleep for awhile.

Hearing the back door opening and Chris hanging up his keys, she quickly, but quietly, got up, and left, shutting the door on her way out.

"Honey?" she heard Chris call.

"Shh," said Iliana, as she tiptoed down the stairs. "Abbey's sleeping!"

"Oh sorry," whispered Chris, mock ziping his mouth shut and throwing away the key.

"How was your day?" she asked as they sat down on the couch.

"Bedlam," said Chris, collapsing into the sofa and wrapping his arm around his wife. "Had to deal with about 200 people calling complaining about the floods, and that their not getting enough support! This is not my fault, or the governments! We didn't plan on having the worst floods ever, in the history of this country!"

"Don't worry honey," said Iliana, running her fingers through his hair. "I'm sure things will work out."

Chris sighed heavily. "Hope so!"

Spying the cabinet of glasswear in the corner, he suddenly smiled.

"D'you wana open up a bottle of vino callapso?"

Iliana giggled but nodded eagerly.

Kissing her forehead quickly, Chris jumped up, took the bottle of wine from the fridge and too glasses and hurried back over to the couch.

Pouring a glass for himself and Iliana, he waited 'till she picked up her glass.

"What are we toasting?" he asked.

"Um....how about us?"

Chris nodded. "Us it is then!"

Clinking their glasses together, Iliana smiled.

"To us!"

Chris smiled and they took a sip of wine.

About two hours, and a whole bottle of wine, later, Chris was laughing to himself.

"Did I tell you a joke I heard today honey?" he asked, looking down.

But Iliana had now fallen asleep, snuggled against Chris' chest.

He smiled and kissed her hair softly.

Reaching over carefully, he put their glasses back on the coffee table.

That was when he spied Belle's open diary.

Lifting it up, Chris could help from reading what was written on that open page.

Dear Diary,

Life is just not going my way at the moment!

I now you can say I bring it on myself but c'mon like! Don't I deserve a break??

No, not really I suppose!

Don't deserve it, one might day. And they'd be right.

I don't deserve much at the moment.

My relationship with Aden's in the bin! Nicole's siding with him too. Jamie's gone and even Mattie is unimpressed with my methods!

I tried seeing Aden yesterday.

That didn't go down so well.

Even though I sat outside his hospital room all day again!

He's gone home today, staying with Nicole.

I tried writing to him but this afternoon I found the letters shredded in my letterbox.

What more can I do to show him how sorry I am?

To show how much I love him?

He has to know! He just has to!!

My life is nothing without him!

It pains me so much not seeing him everyday!

This is going to sound so cheesy, but he's really is my only reason for being!

He has to know that! But how?

Will jumping off a cliff show him how much I mean it?

Maybe something less dramatic....

-Light bulb goes off in my head-

Something like a nudey run....?!

Yes! Yes! That'll do! That has to do it!

I'll catch him when he's outside, strip off and prove my love for him.

Then he'll know!

He just has to!

Gotta go develop my brilliant plan!!.....or maybe not so brilliant! lol!

Love Belle x x x x

Chris rolled his eyes at he smiled down at his sleeping wife.

Like mother, like daughter.

Chris knew Belle's plan was going to work without having to read ahead.

After all.....that's how Iliana proved she loved him!

Like mother, like daughter.

Comments would be much appreciated!!!!

x x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Hey all!!

Sorry for not updating for awhile!

Exams etc. But thank God, they're all over now!

Anyway, this chapter is just about Belle's diary!

It's continuing on from her last entry!

Thanks again Gee again for your lovely recommendation!

I really appreciate it!!

Let me know what you think of this chappie! Please!

Chapter 14

Dear Diary...

So once I'd put together my brilliant plan, I was ready to put it into action!

The plan: I was to 'randomly' bump into Aden, strip off and run down the beach.

Doesn't it just sound brilliant?! I thought so anyway.

The plan was unsuccessful though I'm afraid.

Here's what happened...

Looking up and down the beach, Belle strained her neck trying to see him.

Every guy she ever knew was on that beach, most hand in hand with their girlfriends, except the one guy Belle was looking for.

She sighed; this was a clear sign.

Then she saw Nicole.

Not exactly the person she wanted to see but Belle was desperate.

"Nicole, Nicole!" she called, running over.

Nicole looked over, saw Belle and walked away quickly in the other direction.

"Nic, please," said Belle, taking her hand, pulling her to a stop.

"I've got nothing to say to you Belle," she said.

"Nic look, I know what I did was wrong, and I really really regret it," said Belle. "But are you and Aden really going to hold a grudge forever?"

Nicole looked at her.

"I've missed you Nic," said Belle quietly. "You're like my sister."

The corner of Nicole's lips twitched.

"Look I can't speak for Aden, and I'm not saying I agree with what you did," said Nicole slowly. "But no, I don't want to hold a grudge forever, and....I've missed you too."

Belle smiled and they both hugged each tightly.

"Look," said Nic, pulling away. "I know you and Aden are meant to be together, whether he wants to admit it or not!"

Belle beamed at her, and hugged her again tightly.

"Where is he?" she asked, excitedly.

Nicole bit her lip.

"He's out of town!"

Belle froze. "What?!"

"Justin came to see him," said Nic, slowly. "Saw he was having a hard time, invited him to the city to stay with him."

"Oh," said Belle.

Nicole looked at her determindly.

"I think you should go after him Belle."

Belle looked up at her surprised.

"You serious?"

"Yeah I am," said Nic. "He never said when he was coming back, he could be there for ages, and then if or when he does come back it could be too late. He could be with someone else."

Belle flinched at the thought.

"Go Belle," said Nic, squeezing her hand. "Go and find him, and show him how much you love him. I know he loves you too, otherwise he wouldn't have cried so much over you."

Belle winced. "That bad, huh?"

Nicole grimaced. "You really hurt him Belle."

"I didn't mean to," said Belle, earnestly. "I love him. I never stopped! No one will ever replace him in my heart. No one!"

Nicole smiled. "Well go and tell him that. He needs to know. You'll regret it otherwise."

Belle nodded, knowing Nicole was right.

"Ok, I'll go," said Belle, confidently. "I'll find him, tell him and then everything will be ok."

Nicole smiled.

"My fingers will be crossed for you," she said, holding up her twisted fingers.

Belle grinned, hugged her tightly, and then ran back home to pack her bags.

....So that's whats happening.

Nic's reassurance is really comforting and helps me feel that all this is going to work.

She's got her fingers crossed for me! I have my fingers crossed for me!

Wish me luck!!

Belle x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Hey everyone!!

Sorry for not updating for awhile!

Was busy buying xmas pressies!! Lol!

So, here's the next chapter!!

Let me know what you think!!

It's a little different to the others!

For reasons you will discover, Belle is unable to write in her diary for while, so this chapter is basically describing what happened in the city that day!

There is also a POV from Aden at the end!

Merry Christmas to all my readers!!

WARNING: Stong reference to sexual abuse activity in this chapter!!

Chapter 15

As Belle walked down the winding path, she took in a breath steady her heart.

If it didn't work this time, it was truly over!

Stopping at the door, she knocked at it quietly.

As Belle was expecting either Justin or Aden, she was surprised when a tall, dark haired guy opened the door.

He looked her up and down, and then grinned madly.

"Can I help you miss?"

Belle rolled her eyes.

"Not in the way your thinking," she said.

The young guy looked disappointed.

"I'm Steve," he said, holding out his hand.

Belle smiled and shook his hand.

"Belle," she said. "I'm hoping I've come to the right place, does Justin Jefferies live here?"

"Yeah, I'm his roomate," said Steve, running his fingers through his hair. "He's not here right now though."

Belle looked crestfallen.

"I can tell you where he is though," said Steve eagerly. "Yeah, he and his little bro left 'bout half an hour ago to go clubbing."

"Really," said Belle. "Well d'you know the name of the club Steve?"

"Yeah, it's called Indigo."

"Your the man Steve," said Belle, wringing his hand again and taking off down the road, leaving Chris staring after her.

She turned around again at the end of the path and frowned playfully at him.

"Stop staring at my ass!"

Steve ducked his gead and closed the door quickly, leaving Belle chuckling to herself.

*

Having stopped in the club's toilet and changed into something more suitable, Belle quickly bought her ticket and hurried inside.

The loud music hit her before she saw anything else.

The large room was crowded; sweaty bodies were dancing and rubbing off other sweating bodies.

Saliva was being exchanged and babies were being made left, right and centre.

Condensation and fog flooded the room, making it hard for Belle to see anybody she might now.

But then as the crowd cleared, she saw Aden. But he was doing something she really didn't want to see.

A young girl about Belle's age, who appeared to be wearing just a bra and underwear, was curled around Aden, who had his hands at bra strap and his tongue down her throat.

Justin, who stood nearby, immediatly recognised Belle and tapped Aden on the shoulder.

Looking up, Aden unstantly saw Belle.

His hands quickly dropped from the girl, who was still trying to kiss him.

After growing impatient, she gave up and walked away, followed by a band of her fellow girlfriends.

Aden approached Belle, looking unimpressed.

"What are you doing here?"

This was not a question, Belle recognised; this was an accusation.

"I wanted to see you," she said quietly. "If the mountain won't come to Mohammed, Mohammed will go to the mountain."

Aden frowned.

"Belle, I thought you would have got the message by now; we are over!"

"Aden, don't sat that please!" she begged. "I love you!"

"Yeah, right," shrugging off her arm. "As if I'm going to believe that! You're a slut Belle! You are and you always will be!"

He walked away quickly,followed by a confused Justin, leaving Belle standing in the middle of the dancefloor, with a hundred different eyes staring at her.

"He might not want you babe," said a tall lad, walking up to her, and stroking the bare skin on her back. "But I certainly do!"

Belle smacked his hand away, and walked over to the bar.

"Hit me!" she said to the waitress, jumping up on the seat.

The waitress handed her a shot and Belle drowned it within seconds.

About 12 shots later, Belle was beginning to sway on her chair.

"Maybe you should go home girl," said the waitress, frowning at her disapprovingly.

"Let me do the honours beautiful," said a young man, walking up to Belle and lifting her into his arms.

Belle was too out of it to protest.

As they got out onto the street, the fresh air hit Belle, and she awoke quickly.

"Let me down!" she cried, squealing in the strangers arms.

Almost immediatly, he dropped her but did not let go of her hand.

Dragging down a dark alley, he began kissing her neck forcefully.

"No! Let go of " cried Belle, but his arms were too strong.

Belle felt his hands creep up of Belle and undo the strings of her top.

Pulling it away, he revealed her breasts.

Bending down, he snarled and bit down on them suddenly.

Belle began to scream but they were muffled as the man covered her mouth with his hands.

Ripping off her skirt, he pinned her up against the wall as he undid his jeans.

Pressing up against her, he entered.

Belle's muffled moans of pain could barely be heard.

The pain was killing her.

Everytime he thrust up against was like a hundred knives stabbing her body in different parts.

She remained conscious long enough to hear a new voice yell and heavy footsteps come running down the street.

But then she was gone.

*

Aden's POV.

I finally felt free.

Free of the pain.

Not the physical pain, the emotional pain.

The scars that were left of my soul were still there but the pain was dulling.

They were remain there forever but hopefully just not as noticeable.

Infact, I had almost forgotten about them as this beautiful young girl approached me and ran her fingers through my hair.

We didn't even have to say a word.

I just kissed her without feeling, it helped the pain to go away.

As I felt her body, her hot, sweaty, fit body, whind it's way around mine, I knew the pain was gone.

A one night stand was all I was looking for and this girl I knew would give it to me.

But then I felt a tap on the shoulder and looked up to see the person who had created all my pain.

Belle Taylor stood before me, in a shot leather skirt and a glittery string top that was tied around the back.

How well I knew that top, how well I knew those strings.

For I had untied them many times before.

I didn't want to see her but there she stood before me.

While the pain and anger bubbled up inside me, I couldn't help noting how beautiful and radiant, and breathtakingly hot she looked.

But she had always looked hot.

Even in her baggy pj's.

Our conversation was short and brief, as fairly soon I had had enough of her.

Even the sight of her, opened my barely healed wounds.

So for the rest for the night I avoided her best I could.

Several times I saw her downing shots at the bar, and didn't think of it when I saw a man carry her from the bar and lead of outside.

If only I had still loved her enough to make sure she was alright.

Had Justin and I only left a few minutes earlier, we mite have stopped that....that vile man from hurting her.

If only we had, then I might not be here now, sitting beside her as she sleeps peacefully in her hospital bed.

In her dreams, she probably is hoping and thinking that the worst was over.

If only she didn't have to wake up soon.

Then I wouldn't have to be the one to tall her she was......pregnant.

If only....

Thanks for reading!!

Let me know what you think!!

x x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Thanks carina, RR1 & Steph for your lovely comments!

In answer to your question RR1, yes, Belle is pregnant thanks to the guy who raped her.

Aden's POV is a few days after the incident and tests have proven she is pregnant!

Here's the next chapter!

Hope y'all enjoy it!!

Chapter 16

Dear Diary,

This entry shall be very brief as it hurts to write.

Something terrible happened in the city, that I can't even talk about, which led to me now being in hospital.

What's even worse than that is I'm.....pregnant.

That's all I can say about what happened. It's painful to even think about it.

The only good thing that came out of my visit to the city is that Aden came back to me.

Whether he feels guilty over what happened or he realised we are meant to be together, I don't know.

I am just grateful he is here.

I have to go, my hands is hurting too much. Along with the rest of my body and soul.

Belle.

*

Closing her diary, Belle tried to lay it on her desk.

Searing pain suddenly shot up through her arm, and she winced, a few tears falling from her eyes.

"Babe, here let me do it," said Aden, leaning forward.

Without saying a word, Belle handed him the book and lay back down on her bed carefully.

The pain in her arm and chest was now dulling but she still felt it.

The slightest move made her cry out in pain.

Her entire body was covered in bruises and one of her ribs was broken.

As the pain in her arm throbbed, Belle took in some shaky breaths trying to calm herself.

Even breathing hurt.

Seeing her face crumple in pain, Aden reached forward and cupped her cheek with his hand.

"Shh, babe, it's gona be ok!"

Belle looked at him with teary, scared eyes.

"Shh," said Aden, putting both hands on her face. "Babe, I'm here, I'm not going to let anyone hurt you, ok."

Aden paused, hoping she would say something.

She hadn't uttered a word since she cried out in pain as she woke up.

But she said nothing, she just closed her eyes, still taking in deep breaths.

Minutes later, she was asleep, Aden's hand still resting on her cheek.

As he attempted to move it, in her subconcious, Belle grabbed his hand and held it securely.

Aden smiled and rubbed it gently.

Belle squirmed in her sleep, moaning and crying out.

"Shh," said Aden, rubbing her hand.

As she settled, the door gently opened and in walked Nicole.

"How is she?" she whispered, her face still blotched with tears, and swollen.

Nicole and Mattie had driven up immediatly and stayed with Aden by her bedside since then.

When she'd woken up, Mattie had immediatly called Amanda and Irene who had rushed to see her.

They were both out now; Amanda has returned to see Ryan and Irene had to work.

Aden had promised from the beginning to stay by Belle's side until she was ready to leave hospital.

But as Aden sat beside her, watching her sleep, he doubted he could ever leave her again.

"Has she said anything?" asked Nicole, sitting on the edge of the bed.

Aden shook his head, not taking his eyes off Belle's face.

Nicole sighed.

"Don't worry Aden," she said, softly. "She'll come around soon. She probably just confused, dazed."

"Scared," murmered Aden.

"Probably," said Nicole, quietly.

They sat in silence for awhile, Aden watching Belle, and Nicole flipping through a magazine, uninterested.

"This is all my fault," said Aden, quietly, burying his face in Belle's sheets.

"Aden, no, it isn't," said Nicole, bending down beside him, and taking his hand. "You can't say that! If Belle was awake, she kill you for saying that!"

"But it is my fault Nic," said Aden, looking at her as tears dripped down his cheeks. "If I had just..."

"Aden look, there's no point dwelling on things we could have done, or could have done better," said Nicole. "This has happened, and we just have to deal with it. Belle will have to, and so will you. We all will."

Before Aden could retort, Belle jerked in her sleep, and opened her eyes.

She stared around the room, confused for a moment, and then saw Aden and Nicole beside her.

"Belle, sweety, are in pain?" asked Aden, touching her cheek.

Belle shook her head.

"No, I'm not," she said.

She reached forward and took his hand, ignoring the searing pain in her arm.

"You're here."

Let me know what you think please!!

xx

[LauraPhilly!!]

Thanks everyone for all your lovely comments!

I really appreciate it!

Here's the next chapter!!

Enjoy!

Happy New Year to all my readers!!

Chapter 17

Dear Diary...

The pain is subtle, but it is there.

The evidence is there, prominent; black and blue, on my skin.

The....results are obvious, growing ever more frightening.

Frightening because I don't know what to do.

Frightening because I don't know if I want it...

Frightening because it's happening and I can't stop it!

Because that's what I want it to do; I want it to stop.

Stop, and just leave me alone....

*

There was a quiet knock on the door and a tall lady, wearing a pink suit and glasses, stepped in, carrying a briefcase.

She looked at Belle and smiled at her reassuringly.

Belle didn't smile back.

She just stared back into this stranger's face.

She was being subjected to this.....this interogation.

Belle had been unwilling but the doctors deemed it necessary so here this lady was; a shrink, telling Belle what she already knew.

Aden looked at Belle uncertainly.

She had been fairly unco-operative since she woke up.

Doctors had come in to check on her and she'd just lost it.

She'd frozen, then curled up in a ball and moved as far away as possible from the nurses and doctors.

Her eyes had widened at their advances hands and soon she was screaming.

Aden had tried to reach out to her, to calm her, but she seemed just as scared.

She saw the doctor whisper something and the nurse take out a needle.

She flinched, froze, then dived at the nurse before either Aden or the doctors could stop her.

Aden shuddered at the memory.

In the end, the doctors had to resort to holding Belle down as they sedated her.

Through the glass window that now separated them, Belle caught Aden's eye.

He saw the fear, the anger, the hurt, the betrayal in hers and saw that she would never forgive him for this.

Aden now sat on a chair at the far end of the room while Belle lay strapped to the examination table.

It's for her own good they'd told Aden but he couldn't see how this was true.

Belle wasn't even attempting to escape, she just lay there, glaring at the doctor, and occasionally staring around the room, her eyes avoiding Aden purposely.

The doctor looked at Aden and they exchanged a small smile.

She had asked him to be there, to help Belle as much he could, but Aden doubted Belle would accept his help anymore.

How much the tables had turned in the last week.

Only a few days ago, Aden was the one who had felt betrayed, hurt.

Now, it was he all had caused and was causing all this.

He would have earn back Belle's trust.

He would help erase that terrible look of fear from her eyes.

He groaned and buried his head in his hands as he knew he was the one who had put that look there in the first place.

As he looked up, Aden was convinced for a second he'd seen Belle watching him but she had turned away quickly.

She now stared back up at the ceiling as the psychologist began to ask her questions.

Aden just watched on.

The doctor asked Belle about that night.

Belle was not having any of this. She afterall had not agreed to this in the first place.

Did this lady expect her to co-operate??

She was seriously mistaken if she did!

"Belle!" said the lady, leaning forward. "Did you hear me?"

Belle said nothing.

The lady sat back and sighed.

"Belle I know your not happy but this has to be done. Look, the sooner you talk, the sooner you can leave."

Still, Belle just stared up at the ceiling.

"Babe, please do as they're asking?" begged Aden, from where he sat in his chair.

Belle turned her head and glared at him.

Aden flinched at the anger in her eyes.

She then sat up suddenly.

"You have the nerve to tell me what to do?" she screamed at him, venom practically spitting out of her eyes. "How dare you!"

Jumping off the bed, she stormed over to him.

"I thought you would help me!" she cried. "But instead you....you let them do that to me! You let them control me like that!"

Aden stood up.

"I'm sorry babe," he said quietly.

Belle laughed humourlessly.

"Like I haven't heard that one before," she said, glaring at him.

Aden looked at her sadly.

Belle looked back at the lady who had now risen to her feet.

"She asked me what was bothering me, right?" said Belle.

"Yes," said the lady calmly.

Belle took a step back and glared at both of them.

"I'm f*cking pregnant, that's what!" she screamed. "I'm 19, pregnant," - she looked at Aden - "and betrayed by the one person I thought I could trust!"

"Belle," said Aden, leaning forward to take her hand.

Belle snapped it away.

"Don't ever touch me again!" she screamed, pointing her finger at him. "Ever!"

With that, she stormed out of the room, running down the corridor and disappearing out of sight.

Let me know what you think please!!

x x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Thanks carina, RR1 & Steph for your lovely comments!

Hope you like this next chapter!!

Chapter 18

Bursting through the hospital doors, Belle gasped as the cold air suddenly hit her.

She stopped, dazed by it, but then tried to regain herself.

"Belle!"

She gasped and turned around to see the nurse, doctors and Aden running after her.

She glared at Aden venomously but he did not falter.

He stopped running, instead approached her cautiously, his hands raised, as if surrendering.

Belle's eyes narrowed as she watched him walk up to her slowly.

"Belle, please sweety, come back inside," begged Aden.

"Why should I?" she snapped.

"For the baby, babe," said Aden. "Surely, you don't want to hurt it?"

"I don't care about the baby!" screamed Belle. Several people around looked at her, alarmed. "I don't care! I want to be rid of it!"

"Ok, then for me, please babe?"

Belle widened her eyes in surprise.

"You expect me to listen to you, after you let them...."

She couldn't finish, it hurt to much.

"Belle sweety, I didn't want it!" said Aden, coming closer. "I couldn't stop them! They told me it would be help you! I wanted you to stop hurting!"

"Well look at me Aden," snarled Belle. "Do I look alright now? Did what they do help?"

Aden looked at her sadly.

"Babe, how was I to know?"

Belle opened her mouth to speak, but she couldn't think of anything to say.

Aden reached out his hand.

"Please babe," he said. "Come back inside and we can decide what to do."

Belle frowned.

"About the baby, sweety," said Aden, seeing her confusion.

Belle glared at him; again he spoke about the baby.

In that loving tone.

But how could he love it, it wasn't his?

Then she saw the doctors still standing behind Aden.

She snarled at them.

Aden turned to face them.

"I think I've got this covered guys," he said.

The doctor nodded.

"We'll be standing close by if you need us," he said kindly, then followed the nurses back inside.

Aden looked at Belle, his hand still outstretched.

"Please come with me babe," he said. "You know I would never hurt you."

This was true, thought Belle.

She knew he would never hurt her intentionally.

And she still loved him.

Wasn't that the point behind her whole visit to the city.

And now he was begging her to be with him.

Why was she faltering??

He wanted to be with her like she did with him.

Belle nodded, reached forward and took his hand.

He smiled and squeezed it tightly.

Slowly, they walked back into the hosptial, and down the corridor's back to Belle's room.

Lying down on the bed, Belle curled up under the duvet, still holding his hand.

"You'll be here when I wake up," she said.

He nodded.

"Promise?"

"I promise."

She smiled, close her eyes, and then drifted off into a somewhat peaceful sleep.

*

"I don't really want to talk about it."

Belle frowned; voices weren't suppose to be in her dreams.

They sounded too close.

"But this could be your only chance."

"I know that Nic."

Nicole.

Nicole was here.

So that must be Aden's voice Belle heard in her subconscious.

What were they talking about though?

"Are you sure the doctor's didn't make a mistake?" Nic was saying. "Maybe you're not in-"

"Nic, shh," said Aden.

Belle felt his arm patt her's gently.

"I don't need Belle to hear this," he said. "She's got enough to be worried about."

"But Aden, she needs to know!" insisted Nicole. "What if, in the future, you two want to have children? I know Belle will! She's loves children!"

"Well then she'll have children!" said Aden. "There's loads of possibilities out there! We don't have to worry about this now!"

"But Aden -!"

"Not now Nic," said Aden. "I just can't talk about it now ok!"

"Ok," said Nicole gently. "I'm sorry."

"I know," said Aden. "You're just trying to help. Believe me, I appreciate it! But I've got to put my problems aside for the moment. Belle needs me! I can't be worrying about myself."

"You need to face this sometime though Aden," said Nicole. "You might argue that you're not, but I know you are still in denial."

"Can you blame me?"

"No, of course not!", said Nicole. "It is alot for someone your age to be dealing with."

What's happened to him? Belle's thoughts screamed out to her.

But somehow, the words couldn't get down to her mouth for her to voice it.

"So when are you going to tell her?"

"I dunno."

"Aden - "

"Nic, give it a break will you," said Aden. "D'you realise how hard it will be to say it, let alone live with it! Thinking about it just makes it more real!"

"I know, I know," said Nicole reassuringly. "These things happen though Aden. People deal with it."

"Not people my age!" said Aden. "This can happen to older men, not guys in there twenties!"

"It has happened though Aden," said Nicole, softly. "And it's not your fault."

Aden sighed.

"Yeah, I know," he said. "It's just not everyday a 20 year old guy has to tell his girlfriend he's infertile."

Comments would be much appreciated!!

x x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Thanks again all for your lovely comments!

Really appreciate it!

Here's the next chapter!!

Chapter 19

Belle looked up as she heard the door open.

"Hey sweety," said Aden, rushing quickly to her side. "I only left for a few minutes I promise. Had to go to the bathroom! Are you ok?"

Belle pursed her lips but nodded.

"You've never been very good at lying sweety," said Aden, with a smile.

Belle bit her lip.

"Just tell me babe, please," said Aden.

His face was so tormented, Belle thought. She couldn't not tell him now.

"I heard you and Nic talking before!"

Aden frowned.

"When I was asleep."

Aden's eyes widened then he groaned.

"You weren't meant to hear that," he said, through his hands.

"Aden why didn't you just tell me," said Belle, talking his hands.

"For the exact reasons I said," said Aden. "You've got enough to be worried about, and you didn't need this!"

"But Aden, we're a couple," said Belle, squeezing his hand to emphasize. "We tell each other everything, that's how we get through things."

Aden paused, and smiled for a moment at her words.

"So you'll have me?" he asked, uncertainly.

Belle smiled.

"I don't think I could live without you, so I guess so."

Aden grinned, reached forward and hugged her tightly.

Belle winced.

"Oh babe, I'm so sorry," he said, pulling away.

Belle laughed at his horrified face and soon both of them were in stitches.

"So when did you find out?" asked Belle, once she wiped away the tears of laughter from her eyes.

Aden became serious again.

"A few weeks ago," said Aden. "It was just a routine thing. I got a touch of the mumps when I was in hospital and when they checked me up afterwards, the tests showed I was...."

Belle looked at him, and saw he was crying.

"Hey sweety, it'll be ok, don't worry," she said, wiping away his tears with her fingers.

"Sorry, it just hurts a lot that's all," he said. "I'm still pretty much in shock."

"Shh, it's all gona be ok, you'll see," said Belle.

Aden smiled briefly then looked solemn again.

"You said you heard everything right?"

Belle nodded.

"Then I guess you heard the part where...."

"Where you pretty much admitted that you wanted me to keep the baby," finished Belle, nodding. "Yeah, I heard all that."

Aden gulped, guilty.

"So....what are you going to do?"

Belle sighed.

"I dunno Aden," she said. "I mean we're both so young, d'you think we can handle a baby? They're a big responsibility!"

"Yeah I know, babe," said Aden. "But what other choice do we have? Would you get rid of it?!"

"No of course not!" cried Belle quickly.

Aden looked surprised.

Belle saw this.

"I was in shock yesterday," she explained. "I didn't know what I wanted. I just wanted for things to be back to normal. I've had a chance to think since then!"

"And what have you decided?" asked Aden.

Belle sighed.

"I have decided I'm going to keep it, but give it up for adoption."

Aden nodded, but behind his eyes, Belle could see the disappointment lying there.

"I'm sorry, babe," she said, apologetically. "It's just I'm not ready to be a Mum. I don't want to have to give up my job, I don't want to be exhausted every night. I want to be young, and enjoy being young and live the adventures that come with it. Babies can come later."

"They won't be our babies though," said Aden.

"But this wasn't our baby anyway sweety," said Belle. "I'm sorry, I can't imagine how much I must be hurting you, but I just can't do it. I'm sorry."

Aden nodded, trying best he could to understand.

"Can you forgive me?"

Aden smiled.

"Of course I can," he said. "When the time comes for us to have children, we'll just adopt! There's always other options."

Belle smiled at him, and he smiled back best he could.

He could see where she was coming from, he knew it would be a huge sacrifice for her to make, but something in his head told Aden that she was making a mistake.

But she seemed happy with this decision, and Aden wanted nothing more than for her to be happy after everything that she had been through.

As she chatted lively with him over going home the next day, meeting up with Mattie, and being able to have a decent cup of coffee again, Aden's mind was elsewhere.

Though he tried not to think it, his dream of a little girl, with the same brown hair, green eyes and radiant smile as her mother, running into his arms, was drifting further and further away....

Let me know what you think!!

x x x x x x

[LauraPhilly!!]

Hey, sorry for the really long gap in updates!

I just noticed now how long its been!

Thanks for all your lovely comments!

I really appreciate it!

Here's the next chapter, hope you enjoy it!

Chapter 20

"Mummy! Mummy!"

Iliana looked up from stacking the dishwasher to see her daughter running in the back door, her barney in her hand and her eyes bright with excitement.

"Yes, what is it sweety," said Iliana, massaging a sore spot in her back.

"Daddy's home!" squealed Abbey in delight. "The vrum, vrum monster is back!"

Iliana chuckled as Abbey ran out the door again.

The little thing still didn't say car. It wasn't that she couldn't say it, she just thought it was a boring name for such a vehicle!

Suddenly, the ceiling above Iliana began to shake as George ran across the landing and down the stairs.

"Did Abbey just say Dad's back?"

The slamming of a car door answered George's question. He grinned and ran out the door, quickly followed by Iliana.

"Daddy, Daddy!" cried Abbey, running to him and jumping up into his arms. "I missing you!"

Chris chuckled and kissed her on the cheek.

"I missed you too sweety."

"Dad!" cried George, launching into his Dad, who fell back two steps.

"Wow, son, easy does it!" he said. "All that muscle is your arms is weighing me down!"

"Sorry," said George, pulling back, a grin plastered across his face.

Chris grinned back and ruffled his son's hair.

"How's the rugby training coming along?"

"Good," said George, as Chris lowered Abbey onto the ground. "We've got another match this weekend!"

"Well I'll definately be going to that," said Chris, proudly. "Have show off my son to all my mates now, don't I!"

George dipped his head, embarassed.

Chris chuckled and wound his arm around George's shoulders as they walked back to the house.

Iliana waited patiently by the backdoor, keen for her children to greet their father first.

But now as she saw Chris walking towards her, for the first time in a month, she couldn't help grinning, running and jumping into his arms.

They stayed there, like that for a moment or two.

George rolled his eyes and led Abbey back inside, promising to play 'Ellie the Elephant' with her upstairs.

Pulling her head away from his neck, Iliana looked into her husband's eyes.

His eyes were so bright, so clear, she felt as if she could look down and see his soul.

His beautiful, honest and loving soul.

Chris smiled at her.

"Missed me?"

Iliana raised an eyebrow, then claimed his lips passionately.

There was no other feeling like it.

Chris' lips were always so soft against her, so warm, so gentle.

She would spend most of her time kissing him if she didn't have other things to be doing.

After what seemed like days, she pulled back and grinned at him.

"Does that answer your question?"

Chris grinned exultant.

"Absolutely."

Iliana smiled again and lowered herself back down to the ground, not removing her arms from around his neck.

Putting her head against his chest, she sighed, "Never leave me alone for that long again!"

Chris chuckled.

"But the children were here," he said.

"Chris, you know no one could replace you," she said, looking at him seriously. "I need you! I can't function properly without you! I couldn't sleep propoerly; even in my subconcious I knew you weren't beside me!"

"Ok, I'm sorry I was away so long," said Chris, laying his head against her forehead and kissing it. "It was hard for me too, babe. I missed you all the time! I never stopped thinking of you."

Iliana smiled and hugged him tighter.

"I love you," she said.

"I love you too."

Then he pulled away and looked at her seriously.

"Now what's up?"

She frowned.

"Don't play like you don't know what I'm talking about," he said, raising an eyebrow. "I heard you on the phone the other day, you weren't yourself! Something's up, i can tell."

"I don't know what your talking about," said Iliana, walking away into the living room.

"Illy, I know you back to front," said Chris, following her as she sat down in their favourite sofa. "I can tell when something's wrong! Please tell, I want to help you!"

Iliana paused.

"What if you can't help me?" she finally asked.

"Even so, I want to know what's bothering you," said Chris, talking her hand. "Please Illy!"

His begging face was too hard for Iliana to resist.

"Something has come up in my Mum's diary that's....that's bothering me."

Chris nodded. "Ok, what it is?"

Iliana gulped, uncomfortably.

"Mum was raped!"

Chris swore loudly.

"Are you serious?"

Iliana nodded. "There's more though."

Chris ran his fingers through his hair, incredulous. What could be worse?

"She became pregnant."

Chris shook his head in disbelief.

"So, what's bothering me," said Iliana, slowly. "Is the fact that I might have an older brother or sister out there that I don't know about!"

Chris looked up to see Iliana shaking, as tears appeared in her eyes.

"Ok Illy, shh," said Chris, rubbing her arm comfortingly. "Does Mum give his or her name in the diary?"

Iliana shook her head.

"She's hasn't had the baby so far," she said. "Her plan is to give it up for adoption! She doesn't feel she's ready to have a baby! That it's too much of a responsibility for someone her age!"

Privately Chris agreed with her.

"Well, why don't you read on and you might find out who it is," said Chris, comfortingly. "I'm sure Mum would have mentioned his or her name somewhere!"

"Ok," said Iliana, nodding her head. "That's makes sense."

"But are you sure you can do it Illy?" asked Chris. "Are you sure it won't upset you too much?"

Iliana shook her head determindly.

"No, Mum gave me this diary, clearing intending me to read it," she said. "She warned me in the letter that secrets would be revealed. I guess I was justing expecting something less dramatic than this!"

Chris nodded. "Ok well, if you're sure you can do this...?"

"Yes, I can do this," said Iliana, confidently, picking up the diary from the coffee table. "I'll be fine" - She looked at Chris - "Why don't you go unpack and take a shower, babe? I'll be right here reading this!"

"Ok," said Chris, kissing her forehead. "Call me if you need me ok!"

"Ok," said Iliana, smiling at him.

"You know how much I love you right?"

lliana smiled.

"Yes I do!"

And as Chris disappeared up the stairs, Iliana turned the page of the diary and began reading again, hoping things would only get better.

No Belle or Aden in this entry, sorry about that!

Iliana hadn't been mentioned in awhile, so I had to bring her in again so that nobody forgot her!

Comments would be much appreciated!

x x x x x