6.41 Uncertain

Ellen just sat circled up on the bed wondering what she should do. She loved Art but when he yelled at her over the use of the pill, it concerned her a great deal. 

Ellen like most young girls wanted a family but Ellen wanted to get to know Art and then maybe move in together, yes marriage would be nice but it wasn’t essential not for Ellen anyway. When Art insisted that he’d made his commitment by bonding with her that didn’t sit well.

Ellen wasn’t questioning how she felt about Art but was now questioning the way he was treating her. Ellen had to admit there were times she loved his dominant side and there were other times she hated it like now. A few questions that sprung to mind were why wouldn’t he let her go with him to babysit the twins? Why could they only have sex when he wanted it? Why was he expecting her to dress a certain way and finally the one that she was most uncomfortable with was, why didn’t he want her on the pill? 

Ellen wanted to be a Mum one day but not yet and if she fell pregnant now, would he even stick around at this stage or was it a case of I got you pregnant, now deal with it. This was the type of guys she knew from back home and she didn’t like this side of him.

Ellen felt alone and isolated because apart from a few brief meeting with his father William and his girlfriend Victoria it felt like Art was trying to keep her away from his family and she really needed to talk to someone before this all became too much.

Ellen jumped when there was a knock at the door, she slowly walked over towards the door, took a deep breath then opened it. 

She was surprised to see a lady standing there and said, “Hi can I help you?” Dawn smiled and re-introduced herself and watched Ellen step aside to let her in.

“Ellen, are you alright because you seem preoccupied?” Ellen fell back in the chair and said almost in a whisper, “I’m fine…” then she stopped before the tears started. Dawn kept looking at her and replied, “We were concerned about you because every time we ask after you, Art says you are busy. It’s just we are used to seeing all the other girlfriends but we don’t see you.”

“I’m ok.” Dawn wasn’t buying the speech with a fake happy tone that was too obvious. “Ellen if something is bothering you, well you can talk to me.”

“I can’t because you are Art’s step-grandmother…”

“True but I can see you are upset so talk to me, please.” Ellen knew she needed to open up so decided to take a chance, “I’m thinking of leaving Art…” Dawn was stunned and asked carefully, “Why?” Ellen was trying to find the words and just blurted them out, “At first I thought if I didn’t do what he wanted he’d leave me. What I mean by that was when he asked me to pick somewhere to go on a date, I’d just say you pick because I thought he wouldn’t like what I wanted to do. I mean I’d hurt him when we first met, I just thought he would leave me, stupid right?” Dawn went to say something but Ellen continued without taking a breather, “Then he says things like, I want you now and I don’t argue, I just let him have me even if I don’t want it but he is getting worse. He wouldn’t let me babysit with him. He wanted me to cook different food even though I was already cooking. I’m changing my clothes to suit his needs and wants and now he refuses to let me on the pill saying nature must take its course and I should be grateful as he’s shown his commitment by this bonding.”

“Stop,” Dawn shouted. Ellen went quiet again and it was now Dawn’s turn to speak, “Are you telling me he is controlling you and you don’t want him too?”

“I liked it at first…”

“Did you ever discuss this?” Ellen shook her head.

“First of all, the pill is your choice and not his. It does sound like Art is taking this control thing too far and I have to ask but has he hit you?”

“No.”

“Have you refused sex by saying no and Art force himself on you anyway?” Ellen shook her head again and said, “I don’t say anything, what does that count as?” Dawn was taken aback and said, “Ellen, I think you and Art need to talk. Plus I want to kill him for making you feel like this especially about the pill. However you do need to let your voice be heard and be honest with him and then if he continues to behave like this then you know he is wrong and then you can leave knowing you did everything you could.”

Dawn left but not before telling Ellen that she could come to the house anytime if she wanted to talk.

Ellen had packed a few bags and rang her Dad saying she wanted to come and visit. When Sam asked if Art was coming with her, Ellen didn’t respond so Sam didn’t push things over the phone.

Art walked in and saw the bags and asked, “Where are you going?” Ellen just stood there and said, “I need to put space between us.” Art lost his temper, “Space…everything is fine with us and you are not leaving.”

“Art please, I’m not leaving you but I need space to think things over.”

“Like what?”

“Why won’t you like me go on the pill?” Art yelled, “I have my reasons…” 

Ellen was terrified of speaking up but pushed through her anxiety and replied, “What are your reasons then?”

“You are human and not a vampire like me,” Ellen was stunned but listened to Art, “If by the time we want a baby it may be too late and then I’ll never be a father.” Ellen had to ask, “Where has this come from?”

“My parents had tried for years and when my Mum had a test she was told no kids. They were devastated but by some miracle they finally found out they were expecting me. So I decided a long time ago no pill for the girl I date.”

“You can’t force a baby on us just because of what happened with your parents.” Art couldn’t understand why Ellen was upset and said firmly, “You aren’t leaving so go and unpack those bags.” 

Ellen tried to walk past Art but he pinned her to wall, “I said you aren’t going anywhere. I am not having another female leave me.” In tears Ellen begged, “Please don’t be like this…” 

Art responded by kissing her and said, “I know you like this and if I pushed you more you would be very willing when I took you to the bedroom.”

“Art you aren’t listening to me. Yes you are right if you pushed, I’d be very willing but I want to be able to have fun during sex but there is none. So please let me go and think about what I have said.” 

Art stepped back and just looked at Ellen as she ran from the apartment leaving her clothes behind.

6.39 Changes

Ellen was making dinner when Art came up behind her and asked, “What are you making?” 

Ellen carried on making the dinner as she replied, “Macaroni and cheese, why?” Art sighed and said, “I want something different so scrap that and make something else for me.” Ellen look shocked and quietly replied, “What do you want then?” 

Art rubbed his chin and thought for a moment and said, “I think sushi would be nice.” Ellen looked disappointed as she scrapped the macaroni and cheese and began preparing the sushi.

After dinner Art went to sit down while Ellen cleared the dishes. 

She glanced over to see if Art would offer his help but he didn’t and kept watching the TV. 

When she joined him on the sofa he said, “Are you still wearing that?” Ellen looked at him puzzled and asked, “What is wrong with what I’m wearing?”

“I just think you should be wearing something different.” 

Ellen started to walk away but Art caught her and cupped her face and said sweetly, “I am just thinking of you.” Ellen gave half a smile and did as Art requested and changed her clothes.

Ellen had just finished changing when Art walked in, he wrapped his arms around her and said quietly, “Change of plan, I don’t want you to wear anything right now.” He spun her around and kissed her intently, pushing her onto the bed. Ellen’s only response was surprise as she asked, “Now?”

“Yes now.” 

Ellen didn’t protest and spent the next few hours in bed as they made love. 

When they had finished Art was getting changed in the bathroom when Ellen poked her head around the door and said, “I went to see the doctor today about going on the pill…” but she didn’t get to finish as Art yelled, “I don’t agree with the pill, nature should take it’s course.” 

Ellen fidgeted as she looked at the floor and softly replied, “I…I don’t want to be a mother yet.”

Art came close to her and firmly said, “We have bonded, I have made my commitment to you so having our baby should be what you want.” 

Ellen tried to interrupt him but he kissed her and added, “You will see I’m right, I promise you.”

Ellen nodded and sweetly asked, “Are you staying the night?” Art smiled at her, “I wish I could but Dad asked me to look after the twins again.”

Ellen looked upset when he wouldn’t stay, Art noticed her look of disappointment and said, “I’ll be here early in the morning so don’t worry. Just remember how I like my eggs and bacon cooked. Have a good evening. Love you.”

Ellen wanted to speak up but again wouldn’t say anything just responding with, “Love you too.”

Lexy was taking a much needed rest after the birth of their daughter Violet. Blake was about to get some sleep too when he heard cries through the baby monitor. Lexy hadn’t moved because the birth had been long and exhausting so Blake got back out of bed and went to see what his daughter wanted.

“Shush little one, you should be asleep so what is it you want?” As their eyes met Blake just stared into her eyes and smiled as he pulled her closer to him and sweetly said, “You just wanted a hug from your daddy, didn’t you?” 

Violet made a small noise as Blake rocked her back and forth.

Once he had put Violet back in her cot he turned around to see Lexy standing there with a smile, “Everything ok?” 

Blake went over to Lexy and pulled her into an embrace, “Everything is fine, beautiful and thank you.” Lexy giggled as she pulled back slightly to look into his eyes and asked, “Why are you thanking me?”

“I have a beautiful daughter, who I hope takes after you in looks.” Lexy glanced down with a smile at the comment Blake had made. Blake insisted she look at him and added, “If I hadn’t met you that night, I wouldn’t be here right now a husband and a father.”

“That night I only wanted to help as you looked so lost. I never thought I’d fall so in love with you,” trailing of before she let her emotions get the better of her. 

Blake kissed her softly and slowly as his hands traced her back and almost in a whisper said, “I know its early days yet but I want you to know I so want you.” Lexy still savouring the kiss replied, “Me too but we have to wait until things settle down.

“I can’t wait. Now isn’t it true new parents are supposed to get so sleep while the baby is sleeping.” Lexy smiled at Blake as he led her from the nursery.

As they got into bed Lexy asked, “Is Daphne coming to see Violet?” Blake wasn’t sure what to say and replied, “I hope so because she needs to smile again and I think holding our daughter will help.”

“Ask her in the morning.” Blake kissed her and said, “I’ll try again but I know one grandparent that will be here and that’s Dad.” Lexy laughed, “He has had lots of cuddles with Violet already.” Blake smiled at his wife, “This is Dad we are talking about, besides it’s the first grandchild I’ve given him so that will be his excuse to come over again and again.” Suddenly there were cries coming from the monitor again and Blake added, “Hun, it’s your turn.”

6.32 Meeting the parent

Lexy was now bored waiting for the baby to arrive. When Blake walked in he took one look and said, “Our baby will be here soon.” 

Lexy looked at her husband and said, “Please tell our baby to hurry up.” Blake smiled and started to talk to her belly, “Mummy says you need to make an appearance, it would help me a lot too because then she won’t be so grumpy.”

“Blake!” He smiled at Lexy holding her tight and said, “I know you are bored of waiting but the baby will be here soon,” and then he grabbed her hand and insisted that she follow him. 

He sat her on the sofa and said, “Right I think movie night and pizza, what do you think?” Lexy snuggled into Blake and said, “Best thing I’ve heard all day.”

Art was nervous as he was about to meet Ellen’s father and Will asked, “Are you ok?” Art looked at his Dad and asked, “How do I get him to like me?”

“Be yourself.” 

When there was a knock at the door Will told Art to answer the door and went to see if Victoria was ready. “Why aren’t you ready?” She looked at him and replied, “I’m not Art’s mother and I don’t know what to say.” 

Will pulled Victoria close and said, “I understand you are nervous but I’m not asking you to play Mum, I want you there as my support. I want to make a good impression because it’s important to my son and Art wants you there as well.”

“He does?” Will smiled, “Art likes you and thinks that you are good for me. I know he hasn’t been around a lot to get to know you but tonight would be a good opportunity for you both.” Victoria kissed William and finished getting ready.

When they got downstairs Ellen jumped up and said happily, “Daddy this is Art’s Dad, William and his girlfriend Vicky.” William could see Victoria’s face when Ellen called her Vicky and interjected, “My girlfriend would prefer if you would use her full name Victoria.” He smiled as he took her hand and said, “It’s nice to meet you Victoria excuse my daughter’s enthusiasm. I’m Sam by the way.” Victoria smiled, “Nice to meet you too, Sam.” 

Will and Sam shook hands and Will asked, “Did my son offer you a drink?” Art rolled his eyes and thought, ‘Great start to this evening.’ 

Ellen walked with Victoria as they approached the dining area and said, “I’m sorry to have upset you.” Victoria glanced at her and replied, “Apology accepted, how are you and Art getting along?” Ellen beamed a smile and said, “Great, he arranges good places to go and he helped me get my new place.” Victoria sensed something was not right and asked, “Do you pick places to go?”

“I like what Art picks as its more fun.”

Harmony looked at her parents suddenly lost for words. She saw out the corner of her eye Ty giving her that look then suddenly Blair said, “Harmony what’s wrong?” She smiled at her Dad and replied, “Nothing is wrong I’m just nervous and I shouldn’t be. Ty and I wanted to tell you a few days ago but with the party for Katherine we decided to wait. Ty and I have set a date for our wedding. Twelve weeks from today.”

Teddy looked shocked, “Twelve weeks but that won’t be enough time…” Harmony firmly said, “Mum it will be because we want the wedding here at home.” 

Blair looked at them both and replied, “Move my furniture around…” but he didn’t get to finish as he heard through his thoughts, ‘You mean spirited man, your daughter wants her wedding here and all you care about is furniture.’ Blair knowing Teddy was right said, “If that is what you and Ty want then we will make it happen. Congratulations to you both.” 

Teddy hugged Ty and said, “You should have married a long time ago but it’s finally here.”

Blair suddenly announced, “Harmony when you were younger we bought a plot of land for you but when you got with TJ, I started building a home on it for you…” 

Harmony squealed with excitement thanking them both then dragged Ty off to look at the house.

In the kitchen Victoria was talking to William sounding concerned, “I like Ellen but I feel Art maybe controlling her.” 

William looked shocked and firmly said, “Art would never control his girlfriend,” before Victoria had a chance to say anything thing more William was back talking to Sam.

“How long are you here for?”

“A week or so but I’ll be back, hopefully.” 

As they continued their conversation he watched Art and Ellen together and heard, “Art sit down and I’ll get you a drink,” and as the night wore on he saw more of the same thing. 

He excused himself and asked Victoria to join him. “I’m sorry I snapped earlier but seeing it for myself is different. I haven’t brought Art up to be like this and Heather would not approve of his behaviour.” Victoria wrapped her arms around him and replied, “I thought you had a right to know.”

“I know and thank you for telling me.” 

William poked his ahead around the door and said, “Art a word now!”

William glared at Art and he asked, “Dad what is wrong?” William was angry and asked as calmly as he could, “Why didn’t you get your own drink or offer to get one for Ellen?”

Art stepped back and said, “She likes doing stuff for me. At first I thought it odd but I thought in the end what the hell and the sex…” 

William punched his son and yelled, “You are not Draco. Elvira isn’t controlling you is she?” Art rubbing his cheek and replied, “What? No-one is controlling me…” 

William punched him again and firmly said, “Good! Now stop the way you are treating Ellen and start doing things for her.”

“Dad I tried…”

“Well not hard enough.” Art walked out and back to the dining room and William followed him. When Ellen went to get another drink Art insisted she sit back down and he would get the drink. As William watched he knew there was more to this and as much as he wanted to help all he could do was sit and wait until Art came to him.