Hey Folks. I am kinda new to the board here but have been lurking for a few months. I have a Nikki and Helen fic that I have been working on and have decided to post it. This story has been spell checked and grammer checked and betaed twice once by me and once by my beta.

I am happy to accept comment, but am not looking for any criticism (negative or positive) either publically or privately--only general encouragement

I wanted tell a story and when I sat down to write it, I didn’t know which way to go. I was nursing a broken heart at the time, so I figured I would derive a type of love story out of it, turning pain into love. So as I began writing this story, I got stuck. Then I started watching “Bad Girls,” and was inspired by the lesbian storyline. I borrowed a few characters from the show and began writing away, and thus was born a this story.

Nikki Wade, Helen Stewart, Yvonne, Jim Fenner, Lauren, Claire Walker, Sean Parr, Thomas Waugh and Babs all belong to Shed Productions.

All other characters are mine.

Without further ado I give you…



“Falling Down Means Getting Back Up Again”

Prologue

I never really understood love up until almost a year ago. I had been suffering from a broken heart; the person I had spent nine years of my life with had left me. Then this amazing woman walked into my life and completely turned everything upside down, but in order for me to tell you my story, I would have to back track a little bit.

My lover of almost nine years had just decided to up and leave one day to “find” herself. That process, however, did not include me. One cold December night after a long day at work, I walked into the house that we had shared to find all of her things gone and a note on the dinning room table stating simply “It’s over. Don’t come and find me. I need to find myself first. Here are my shares of our club. Do with them what you wish.” At that very moment, my whole life came crashing down right before my eyes.

My whole life had been one big roller coaster ride after another. I was born in London, and then my family moved to the States when I was twelve, so life for me was different, going from one country to another completely foreign one. Everything was ass backwards here, even the way these Americans drove was wrong! Everything was just so different, but eventually I got used to it, and after a time, settled down.

I came out to my parents when I was sixteen. From then on, I was banished from the family and forced to live on my own. Things were rough at first, working crappy, menial jobs, but I managed to find my niche working as a vet technician in a small animal hospital. I loved taking care of animals, so from that day forward I was focused on getting my degree and studying to be a vet. It was when I started vet school that I met Trisha, and for the first time ever, I fell in love. We dated for a year and eventually bought a house together and opened up a gay nightclub in Chicago, Chix.

Spending nine years of your life with a woman only to have it taken away in the blink of an eye was harsh. I got depressed and things seemed to be moving for the worst.

It wasn’t until a year later that I would realize that my life would change yet again, causing more turmoil than before. Three years out of veterinary school and I had just opened up my own practice and was still in the process of rebuilding my life after that bitch tore it apart. I had a wonderful group of friends and wonderful employees. Without them, I don’t think I would have survived that break up.

There was Jesse; he was my very gay, very feisty best friend. He and his partner, Drake, had been together for almost eight years; they were my inspiration to go on. They were so damn cute together. Drake worked as my assistant at the animal hospital and Jesse worked at a local animal shelter nearby.

Josie and her husband, Mario had been together since our high school years. We all remained friends through out the years and it was Josie who encouraged me to open up my own practice. In turn, I asked Josie to be my accounts manager. Mario worked as an attorney in busy downtown Chicago and it was he who did all the legal paperwork for the hospital.

Then there was Audrey and Marcie. Funny thing about these two is I hired Marcie, as my secretary and Audrey as my vet tech when I first opened up the place and they met and fell in love instantly. Within 4 months of their meeting they were married and are currently happier than ever.

Barbara, who we call Babs for short, was my rock, like a mother to me, someone whom I could seek out for advice on any situation. I spent many nights crying on her shoulder after Trish left me. I asked Babs to come and work at the Hospital and she, too, became one of my secretaries.

And lastly there was Yvonne; Yvonne is spunky. I love her attitude about things and how she just manages to always know what I am thinking. She has been there for me through thick and through thin. I met Yvonne when I went back London for a year. At that time, Yvonne had just been released from Larkhall Prison. It was a funny story, really; I had been staying with a friend and in comes Yvonne, not even a knock, looked at me and demanded, “who in the bloody hell are you?” We had a bit of a tiff but we managed to become good friends. She ended up moving to Chicago a few months after I returned for a job she was offered. She didn’t work at the hospital with me but anyone would sure think so, since she spent so much time there.

It was cause of these wonderful friends that I was able to make it through. I had opened up my own practice, bought a new house and a new puppy, a Rottweiler named Jack. Life was getting good again, as much as could be expected, until one day when a woman walked into my office, completely changing my life, and turning everything upside down again.


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Chapter One- The First Meeting

I remember it like it was yesterday. I was just finishing up with a patient when Marcie informed me that I had an emergency on the way in. It was a dog that was attacked by a vicious dog. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Marcie shook her head and said not to hope for much.

Soon, the owner and the dog had arrived and I was pretty shocked to find out that the dog was merely a defenseless puppy. There was blood everywhere. Audrey grabbed the pup and brought him into the exam room.

I walked into the room follow by my assistant.

“I’m Dr. Nikki Wade, and this is my assistant, Drake,” I said as I walked into the exam room, not paying too much attention to the owner, focused on the puppy whose name I found out was Oscar. “What happened Ms…?” I let the question linger.

“Stewart. Helen Stewart, to be honest I am not really sure what happened. I was walking down the path in the park when this dog came out of nowhere and attacked Oscar. The owner came running to the dog just as it turned its attention on me and bit my hand as I was trying to get it off him,” she said as she showed me the marks on her hand, though they were not bleeding at the time, looked pretty bad. “When I looked down I saw that Oscar was bleeding and he was barely moving, so I picked him up contacted the hospital and raced him here.”

“Well, it’s a good thing you did,” I replied with a sincere smile.

I examined the cute little Golden Retriever puppy. The pup had been bitten in several places, but thankfully, the injuries were not as severe as they looked. He would need a few stitches and few follow up visits to make sure that the wounds were healing and removal of the stitches, but that was about it.

“Ms. Stewart, this is one lucky little guy you have here, and quite strong, too. He is going to need a few stitches, so I am going to call my tech, Audrey, in here to give him something to sedate him. He will be a little groggy when you take him home, but you can take him home today”

“Thank you, Dr. Wade.”

“No need to thank me, Drake here will escort you to the waiting room while I stitch Oscar up.”

“Dr. Wade, I know this is probably against the rules but I would like to stay if that’s alright”

“Alright, I don’t see why that would be a problem,” I replied.

She nodded her head with a smile as I prepared to stitch the little guy up. I looked up and my eyes met hers for the first time for a brief but intense moment. Just then Audrey walked in.

“Nikki, here is the sedative you wanted.”

“Very well, Audrey, you give that to him while I go scrub up.”

“Okay.”

I excused myself from the exam room and went to clean up to prepare for the procedure.

As I was scrubbing up, my mind kept replaying that intense look that Ms. Stewart and I had shared. Why was it so intense? I asked myself. What did that mean? I again asked myself. Did it even mean anything? Yes, of course it did. Why else would you share a look that intense with a perfect stranger? But what did it mean? I sighed to myself and pushed the thoughts in my head aside and made my way back to the exam room.

It took about an hour to get him all stitched up and ready to go.

“Okay, we are all done. There are a few things that you need to be aware of and then I will send you on your way.” I said, looking up at Ms. Stewart.

“There are three lacerations, each with five stitches. Please make sure that you keep his bandages clean, I will set you up with some gauze and some pet tape. Don’t let him get wet and try to keep him from getting all riled up. I know it might be hard, seeing that he is still a puppy. Try not to leave him alone for long hours. If work is an issue, we have a doggie day care here at the hospital and we will be more than glad to look out for him. I will waive the fees for you since he is injured.”

As I was explaining care procedures to the puppy’s owner, I finally got a good look at this woman. I was completely blown away at the beauty she possessed. There was just something about her that caught my eye and she had my full-fledged attention after that.

I gave her the once over, She was about five foot, five inches, slim, had the greenest emerald eyes I had ever seen and when she looked up at me with a sigh of relief that Oscar was okay. She smiled this amazing smile. From then on I was head over heels smitten. Well, that is, until I saw the engagement ring on her finger.

For a moment, I was saddened by the turn of events as I had only just met this woman, but I let the thought pass. But still, there was just something about her. I let my mind wander back to earth and went back to the task at hand.

“Do you have any questions, Ms. Stewart?” I asked as I finished explaining everything to her. She smiled at me again and again I was lost in that smile.

“No, but thank you so much, Dr. Wade,” she said sincerely with tears in her eyes.

I looked down and for a moment and noticed her hand was bleeding. I gasped as I remembered she had explained that she was bitten by the dog as well.

“Ms. Stewart, your hand is bleeding pretty badly. Are you alright?” I asked, concern written all over my face.

She gasped as she looked down at her had and for the first time realized just how badly she had been bitten and seemed shocked that she was bleeding.

I took her hand into mine and examined it for a moment.

“It doesn’t look like it needs stitches. I can clean it out and bandage it up for you if you’d like.”

She nodded her head yes, and I took her hand into mine once more and cleaned it up and bandaged it up for her with some gauze.

As I was cleaning her hand, I made some conversation with her

“So, I gather by your accent you’re from Scotland?” I stated with a small grin.

“I was born in Scotland, but had been living in London most of my life. Up until recently when I was offered a job here in Chicago. So, I take it from your accent you are from London as well?” She asked with a smile.

“Well, I was born in London and was forced to move here when I was twelve, but it grew on me and I have been here ever since. I did go back to London briefly for a year, though.” I said with a sincere smile.

“That’s wonderful that you got to go back. My fiancé, Sean, is currently there. He is tying up some work stuff out there and then he will be here to join me.” She said with a smile that was clearly fake.

I don’t know if it was me, but she didn’t seem rather enthused that he was going to be joining her. It was probably just me, so I let the thought pass and finished up her hand.

“Just to be safe, I would get that looked at by your doctor and perhaps get a rabies shot if you don’t know the other dogs history.”

“Thank you, Dr. Wade. I managed to get the name and number of the lady whose dog bit me, and I will give her a call to make sure the dog has been properly vaccinated.”

“Good, now let’s get you and Oscar checked out and ready to go home. I have prescribed some pain medication and Marcie will explain everything to you. If you need anything, do not hesitate to call.”

I shook her good hand and escorted her to the front, where I had explained to Marcie what the situation was.

“Marcie, this is Oscar Stewart’s file. Everything that was done is in the file on this page,” I said as I pointed to the page of notes I took on the situation. “Please set up Ms. Stewart with a doggie day care account so that she may use it if she needs it. Waive the fees for three weeks.”

“Okay, Nikki, Will do,” Marcie replied with a smile.

I turned my attention back to Ms. Stewart, I said goodbye to her and turned around to come face to face with Yvonne.

“Ello, Nikki.”

“Hey, Yvonne.”

“How goes it, Nik?”

“Pretty good, Yvonne, I just finished up with an emergency and I am getting ready to go clean up.”

“Aye, I see is that her over there?” Yvonne nodded her head to the front.

“Yes, that’s her, why?”

“I know this sounds crazy, but is her name Helen Stewart, by any chance?”

“Yes,” I replied, the shock evident in my voice

“Well, bloody hell! What in the hell is she doing here?”’

“She said something about having a job here. Why, do you know her?”

“Yes, she used to be wing governor at Larkhall when I was in prison there.”

“Well, wow, talk about a small world. So, what’s she like?” I asked, curious.

“Well, she tried to change things for the better at Larkhall, and she was doing a good job until that bastard officer Jim Fenner, the one that I told you about, allegedly assaulted her and forced her to quit.”

“Do you really think she was assaulted?” I asked.

“Yes, I bloody well do. Nikki, you have no idea how much of an asshole this guy really was.”

“I see,” I said quietly.

I was going to ask her more questions but I looked at the time and realized I had to get to another appointment.

“Yvonne, I’m sorry to cut this conversation short but I have an appointment.”

“Okay, Nikki, I will see ya later then.”

“Bye, Yvonne.” I said, turning to leave.

I couldn’t believe what Yvonne had just told me. I was shocked and for some reason, I was angry. Angry with this bastard, this Jim Fenner, who the fuck did this guy think he was hurting Helen like that? I had no idea why I was thinking these thoughts, but I had to push them aside I had to take care of my other appointments first. There would be time for thinking later.

That day had gone by rather slowly after meeting Helen Stewart. I found myself daydreaming about her on my lunch break. Thinking about her at any free moment I was given. Wondering what it would be like to kiss her, love her. Wait?!?! Love her?? Where the hell did that come from?? I thought to myself. I had no idea at that time but I had already fallen in love with one Ms. Helen Stewart.

well all i ha to say is it fantastic and i went more very very soon pleeeeease

Great start. I'm looking forward to more. Oh and, cool twist putting them in Chicago. Rock on.

xoxo
Emms

:hug Great start, looking forward to the next asap.

Thanks to those who replied here is the second chapter. I will have the third up in a few days once it comes back from my beta. Enjoy


Chapter Two- The follow up

It had been a week since my first encounter with Ms. Stewart and I knew that she had scheduled a follow up appointment for Oscar today and I had no idea why but I was incredibly excited.

I was interrupted from my train of thought when Yvonne and Jesse walked in.

“Hiya, Nik,” Yvonne said.

“Hey, Nikki, how goes it,” Jesse said.

“Hey, guys, what’s going on?” I greeted them with a smile.

“Well, I’m here because I need to pick up those vaccines for the shelter that you promised me. I have no idea why Yvonne’s here,” Jesse said with a smirk.

“Oh, shut it, you, I am here because I wanted to stop by and say hello to my good friend, Nikki.”

“Yes, but you are always here.” Jesse stated.

“Okay, listen, you, I am here all the time because Nikki is a very dear friend of mine, but as a matter of fact, today, I have a hidden agenda. I wanted to talk to her about adopting a puppy for my daughter, Lauren. She is moving here in a few weeks and I know she loves dogs and I just wanted to do something special for her.”

I watched as these two bickered as they always do, silently laughing.

“Well, why do you want to talk to Nikki, aren’t you forgetting that I work at an animal shelter?”

“Well, Nikki is a vet she has a good idea of what kind of breed would be ideal for me and Lauren.”

Jesse was getting irate with Yvonne, and I was getting irate with both of them. I told Jesse to go up to the front and Marcie would give him the vaccines and I told Yvonne to just give me some time alone I wanted a few moments to myself.

“You alright, Nik?” Yvonne asked.

“Yes, Yvonne, I’m fine I just want a few moments to think and go over a few files.”

“Alright, mate, I will see you later then.”

“Bye, Yvonne.”

The hospital was pretty quiet and I was in my office going over a file when the buzzer to my office went off with Barbara on the other end.

“Dr. Wade, Ms. Stewart is here with Oscar.”

“Okay, Barbara, send them to exam room one please. I will be with them shortly.”

A nervous feeling had come over me as I was closing up the file that I was working on and getting ready to make my way over to the exam room. If you would have asked me then why the hell I was so nervous I would have been just as confused as you. For some odd reason, Helen Stewart had the effect on me. She made me nervous, Lord only knows why, since I had just met the woman.

Thoughts ran through my mind and I wracked my brain trying to figure out what in the world could make me feel this way about a woman I had just met. Then, for a brief moment, the word “LOVE” popped into my head for the second time since I met her. Once again I shrugged the word out of my mind and made my way to the exam room.

The moment I walked in I noticed Oscar sitting on the exam table and Ms. Stewart petting his cute little head talking baby talk to him and for a moment my heart skipped a beat. Ms. Stewart was wearing tight jeans and a black tank top. She was incredibly beautiful and the way she was with Oscar was amazing. This woman rushed her dog to the hospital before even taking care of her own injuries. I stood in the doorway and watched for a moment before making my presence known.

“Morning, Ms. Stewart,” I said as I walked in from the door way.

“Morning Dr. Wade,” came the small reply as she smiled at me.

“So how is Oscar doing? I see by his chart that you have had him at our doggie day care.” I remarked.

“Well, Dr. Wade he seems to be doing just fine. To be honest he’s his same ol perky self. I just feel bad having to leave him during the day but it has been hard keeping him relaxed so I felt that doggie daycare was the best option.”

“Well, that is wonderful. He certainly seems playful.” Oscar started licking my face. “Now let’s have a look and see how his wounds are doing.”

I peeled off the bandages and had a look at the wounds, they were healing nicely and Helen had done a wonderful job keeping everything clean.

“Well, Ms. Stewart, everything looks to be healing well and the stitches should be ready to come out in about two more weeks.”

She looked up and smiled at me as I re-bandaged Oscar’s wounds.

“All done,” I gave Oscar a gentle pat on the head. “May I give him a treat?” I asked.

“Sure,” she agreed.

I grabbed the bag of treats I kept in the exam room and gave Oscar one, then I looked up and met the lovely Ms. Stewart’s eyes and smiled.

“So, how’s your hand? Did you get it looked at by your doctor? Did you get everything straightened out with the owner of the dog that bit you and Oscar?” I asked curiously.

“Yes, I did actually. It turns out that the dog was not current on its vaccines and I needed to get a rabies shot. I filed a police report and a vicious dog bite report with the city.”

“What kind of dog was it that bit you and Oscar?”

“It was a Pit bull,” She replied with a sad look in her eyes.

“Apparently, once the Police referred the case to Animal Control and they investigated the situation, they found out that the dog was living in horrid conditions.”

“Did they remove the dog from the owner? Are they going to put him down?” I asked.

“Yes, they removed him from the premises. I asked that they not put the dog down and that they at least try to rehab him. If the dog does well, I may consider adopting him,” she said proudly.

I was blown away when she said that. I am an animal lover, by all means, but if a dog had viciously attacked my dog and me, I would certainly want the dog to be put down. I admired her for that and it gave me a new found sense of appreciation for this beautiful stranger.

“Wow, that’s very admirable,” I said, shock evident in my voice.

“Well, I believe that every dog deserves a chance, and judging by the way it was forced to live, I think this one definitely deserves a chance at a good life.” She finished smiling that amazingly smile of hers, her tongue peeking through her teeth, causing me to go weak in the knees.

I wanted to stay and continue to chat with her but I had another client waiting for me and needed to attend to the dog. I was forced to cut the conversation short.

“Well, Ms. Stewart…” I began when she cut me off.

“Helen,” she said.

“I beg your pardon?”

“Please, call me Helen, Ms. Stewart is just so formal. I hate it.”

“Well, alight then, Helen.” I grinned.

“Unfortunately, I must go and tend to another patient. Here is Oscars file, please take it up with you to the front and hand it to Barbara and she will set up an appointment for Oscar to get his stitches taken out. It was nice seeing you again.” I smiled at her.

I shook her hand and made my way to the other patient waiting for me.

The day went by agonizingly slow after that. Again my thoughts wandered back to her and I began wondering to myself is this what is would always be like after seeing her? My mind flashed back to the word love for a moment. This time instead of pushing the thought out of my head, I began to think about it a little more. It couldn’t be could it? I asked myself. Was I falling in love with Helen? Well, even if I was, nothing could ever come of this situation, for Ms. Helen Stewart is not only straight but also engaged to be married.

:clap I really enjoyed your story. Thanks for posting it! :clap

Great start a wonderful story can't wait for more updates :clap :clap :clap

Thanks! Great start to a story!!

Hmmm .... maybe she should name the Pit Bull, Fenner, as well? :)

Hey Guys Thanks for the lovely feedback. Here are the next two chapters. I should have another one for you later this weekend.


Chapter Three- I’m So Confused

A week had passed since I had last seen Helen, and I had become so confused and so angry with myself for feeling the way I was feeling over someone whom I had only seen twice in my life. I needed comfort and I needed advice, so I went to Babs.

Babs was walking passed my office and I called out to her.

“Babs, can I talk to you for a sec?”

“Sure, Nikki, what’s the matter?”

“I need some advice.” I said quietly

“Okay, shoot,” she replied.

“Well, it’s about a woman.”

“Helen Stewart, by any chance?” she asked knowingly.

“How did you know?” I asked, somewhat confused.

“Nikki, I’ve known you for a long time, and I know that the moment you met this woman you have been different. Now tell me what’s going on.”

“It’s just that for some odd reason, I can’t stop thinking about her. I mean, since the moment I met her, she’s invaded every thought and dream that I have had. It’s starting to scare me. I have only seen her twice.”

“Well… are your thoughts purely sexual or not?”

“Surprisingly, they aren’t sexual at all. I mean, one or two have been, but for the most part, no. It’s mostly been me envisioning her, just holding me, and me holding her. It’s way more than just a sexual thing, and it’s scaring me half to death.”

“Well, Nikki, the only real advice I can give you is to not be scared and just let whatever happens, happen, even if it means that you get hurt again. Follow your heart, though you may very well be surprised.” She said with a small smile.

“She’s engaged.” I said sadly

“Nikki, you should know that, that doesn’t always mean anything. I think you should follow your heart this time. I’ve always believed people come into our lives for a reason, and this may very well be something in passing or it could be something special, but you will never know if you don’t follow your heart and at least try.”

“I followed my heart once and look where that ended up.”

“Nikki, listen, I know that what you went through with Trisha was difficult, but you can’t close your heart off forever. If you do that, then you will never find love again and I know you don’t want that.”

“No, you’re right, I don’t.”

“And besides, Helen may be engaged, but judging by the way she was checking you out last week, I think she may feel a little something towards you as well,” Babs said with a small grin.

“She was checking me out?!”

“Yes, while I was preparing her billing statement, you were walking down the hall to go to your next client and her eyes never left your ass.”

“Are you putting me on?”

“No, Nikki, I’m not.”

“She was looking at my ass?”

“Yes, and I don’t know about you, but I don’t go checking out asses that I don’t find attractive.”

“But wait, that doesn’t mean anything, it could just mean I have a nice ass.”

“Nikki, listen, I love you to bits, sweetheart, but I don’t go around checking out your ass. Or any other woman’s, for that matter.”

“So what are you saying? You think she might be gay?”

“I don’t know if she is gay or not Nikki, but what I do know is that she was checking you out. Her eyes were locked on your ass as if she were in some sort of hypnotic trance.”

“Are you sure she was looking at my ass though?”

“Yes, Nikki.”

“Well I’ll be damned,” I breathed.

“Nikki, please, just take my advice and see what happens. Sometimes, even if the result isn’t want you want it to be and you end up getting hurt, it’s better to at least know than to never know at all and always wonder what could have been.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” I said quietly.

“Good, now get back to work,” she commanded.

“Yes, m’am!” I said, saluting her.

She laughed as I made my way back to my office.

Through out the day I kept replaying the conversation with Babs in my head over and over again. I just wasn’t sure what could come of this. Helen was engaged and straight and I was afraid of love and letting love in. It was just an impossible situation if you really sat down to think about, which I did over and over again. I guess it wasn’t more so the fact that Helen was engaged that bothered me, it was the fact that I didn’t want to get hurt again.


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Chapter Four- Bye Bye Stitches, Hello Sean

A week had passed since that conversation with Babs and it was now time to see Helen again. Today was the day Oscar was getting his stitches out. Helen had continued to use our doggie daycare facility and I made it a point to check in on the little guy every now and then to make sure he was adjusting well. I kept telling myself that it was mostly to make sure that Oscar was okay, but I tried to bump into Helen or at least catch a glimpse of her, but I never succeeded. Our doggie day care facility was open twenty four hours a day and our schedules were completely different. She would pick him up at eight, but our hospital would close at five. Eventually, I reluctantly gave up on seeing Helen and focused my attention on little Oscar.

It was late morning and Helen and Oscar where scheduled to be at the hospital at eleven. I had just finished up surgery, so I was a bit in disarray. Normally, I would wear dress pants a nice shirt and my white doctor coat. Today I was wearing my scrub pants and top and my scrub hat, which I only wore the days I had surgery. I wanted to freshen up a bit before my appointment with Helen, but unfortunately, there was no time as the surgery had run later than I had expected.

I washed up from the surgery and made my way to my exam room. Last time I walked into the exam room I had found Helen talking to Oscar, looking beautiful and was shocked by her beauty, this time, however, I was shocked for a whole different reason. I saw Helen talking to some strange, funny looking man.

“Hello, Helen, Oscar and…” I nodded my head in the man’s direction.

“Dr. Wade, this is my fiancé, Sean. Sean Parr.” Helen said with a clearly fake smile.

Sean extended his hand toward me and I accepted it with reluctance. I studied him for a moment; there was something off about him, something that I just couldn’t put my finger on. I figured I was probably little jealous at seeing the man that the object of my affection was going to marry, but I let the thought slide and turned my focus onto Helen and Oscar.

“Hey there, little man,” I said to Oscar. “How is he doing?” I asked Helen.

“Oh, he is doing just wonderful, he’s made some new friends at the day care and he’s just getting so big and he just seems to be healing wonderfully.” She smiled that sexy smile, her tongue peeking behind her teeth.

Oh, great, I thought to myself when she smiles at me like that I cant help but to swoon.

“Yes, I noticed that he was getting bigger and it’s wonderful that he’s doing well. Let’s have a look at those stitches, shall we?”

I took a look at the pup’s stitches, and as I expected, they were ready to come out.

“Well, Helen, everything looks good, so I am going to take the stitches out now. You are more than welcome to stay in the room as I do the procedure. However, I will have to sedate him again to allow me to remove the stitches.”

“Yes I would like to stay.. I…” at that point she was cut off by Sean.

“Why in the bloody hell would you want to stay and watch that?” He asked in a very snobby voice.”

Helen’s facial expression was saddened for a moment. She replied with a tone in her voice which seemed to be a bit like fear. “Sean, he is my pet and I love him dearly I just want to make sure everything will be fine.”

“But Hels, I’m sure Dr. Wade can handle it.”

“Sean, please just let me stay if you want to leave you can leave.”

“Hels, come on you don’t need to be in here, let Dr. Wade do her job.” He said raising his voice slightly causing Helen to cringe.

At that point, I could sense an argument brewing between the two and took matters into my own hands.

“Mr. Parr, Helen is more than welcome to stay in the room while I remove the stitches. You are more than welcome to wait in the waiting room. I can even have Marcie get you a cup of coffee if you’d like.”

“But..”

“Mr. Parr, before you say another word, I am going to ask you nicely to wait outside in the waiting room and let me do my job. Ms. Stewart has asked if she could stay and I am going to allow her to do so. If you would like to stay in the room as well I don’t mind but I will have to ask you to be quiet.”

Sean didn’t say a word to me he just stormed out of the room like a little child that didn’t get his way. There was really something about him that was irritating and I didn’t like the sound of fear emitting from Helen’s voice when she spoke about wanting to stay. I turned to look at Helen who looked like she was about to cry. I wanted to say something but at that moment did not know what to say but she broke the silence for me.

“Dr. Wade, I want to apologize for that.”

“Helen..” I began knowing that a snarky remark was about to come out of my mouth and I shut right up.

“What is it, Dr. Wade?”

“Sorry, I don’t want to be rude but…”

“No, what is it?”

“I was going to ask if he was always like that, but then thought it would be rude, so I stopped myself from asking. But now I’ve said too much, and it’s really none of my business, and...I’m rambling, I’d better shut up now.”

“No, you’re not, it’s quite cute actually.”

Helen’s eyes met mine, and there it was again, something in that look that just got to me, this time it almost made me weak in the knees. I had to brace myself on the exam table to keep from falling over. Wait, did she just call me cute? We stood there for a moment and looked into each others eyes.

Just as the silence was becoming too loud, Audrey walked in to give Oscar his sedative.

“Hi, Nikki,” Audrey said. “How are you? I didn’t see you this morning when you came in.”

“Oh, I’m alright, Audrey, thanks for asking.”

“Good, I’m glad to hear it.” She said with a smile

“Audrey, I’m going to go scrub up, so can you give Oscar his sedative, please?”

“Sure thing, boss,” She said, smiling.

With that, I turned and walked out of the room.

I was back within a few minutes and I watched Audrey and Helen having a bit of chitchat. Oscar was sedated on the exam table. I sighed as I watched Helen lovingly petting Oscar’s head. I walked into the room and began the removal of Oscar’s stitches.

Once I was finished removing the pup’s stitches, I looked up at Helen and smiled.

“All done. Everything looks healed; there is a still a wound that needs to be kept clean. It’s okay for him to have a bath now, and if you have any questions or any concerns, please feel free to give me or anyone on my staff a call. We will be more than glad to help you.”

“Thank you, Dr. Wade,” she replied.

“You are most welcome. Oscar is a sweetheart.” I looked down at her hand noticing it was pretty well healed.

“How is your hand, by the way? Whatever happened to the dog that attacked you?”

“My hand is doing fine, thank you for asking. And the dog that attacked me is doing well. I am looking into adopting him soon once he is done with his proper training.”

“That’s wonderful, Helen. I am still in complete shock that you would do that, but I really do admire you for it.”

“Thanks, I just love animals and I believe all of them deserve some sort of chance at rehab, even the vicious ones.”

“Yeah, you are very right about that.”

“Dr. Wade, I’ve never seen you in scrubs before.”

I looked down at my scrubs sheepishly and blushed a bit.

“Yes, well, I had surgery today.”

“Oh, that explains the scrubs, then.”

“Yes,” I smiled shyly.

“They really suit you.”

“Thanks,” I said blushing even more.

Our eyes locked again and my heart was racing. It seemed like both of us were frozen in place at that exact moment, looking at each other just drinking each other in. It seemed as though we had stood there for hours but it was merely just seconds. It’s amazing how she can make time stand still like that. I thought to myself. My train of thought was broken as she broke the silence.

“Well, I better get going then.”

“Okay, I will walk you up to the front.” I said sadly.

We made our way to the front desk, and there was Sean, sitting smugly in his seat. Once he noticed we were walking out he walked up to Helen.

I stood there as Barbara checked them out and gave them the bill, watching how they interacted.

“Ms. Stewart, your total is three hundred dollars.” Babs said sweetly.

Before Helen could say anything, Sean interjected with his assholish attitude.

“Three hundred fucking dollars to remove a dog’s stitches!! He’s just a stupid mutt, for Christ’s sake!”

Helen looked over at him that same fear in her eyes that I saw before, only this time, it was more evident.

“Sean, he’s not just a stupid mutt, he’s a sweet, precious animal, a living, breathing thing, for Christ sake!”

Sean just gave her this, I can’t believe you just crossed me look. I was actually fearful for her. I watched the interaction a bit more and then they left. I was left with a horrible feeling inside of me.

Yvonne walked in shortly after they left and I decided to probe Yvonne, who at least knew the sexy Scot somewhat.

“Yvonne, come to the office with me, I wanna talk to you about something.”

“Sure, Nik.” Yvonne replied as we walked to the office.

“So, Nik, what didja wanna talk to me about?”

“I wanted to ask you, you said that Helen Stewart worked at the prison you were at in London right?”

“Yes, Why?”

“Did you have much interaction with her?”

“As far as Helen Stewart is concerned I always liked her. I thought she brought a lot of good to Larkhall. I don’t know much about her thought because my interaction with her was limited. Other than many rumors about her boyfriend being a real jerk and that of the assault with that bastard Jim Fenner. That’s really all I know about her personal life.”

“Why do you ask mate?”

“Well when she came in today to have Oscar’s stitches removed and her fiancé Sean was with her and I just got an eerie feeling from him. He got into a tiff with her about staying in the room while I removed the dog’s stitches and then he started screaming up a storm when Helen got the bill calling the dog all kinds of names and when Helen interjected he looked at her with a very frightening look that even scared me.”

“Me too,” Bab’s said walking past the office.

“Well rumor did have it that he was abusive to her. I mean things can get blown out of proportion in prison but I did notice a few bruises on her arms a few times, the kind that looked like they happened when someone grabbed you too hard.”

I wasn’t sure how to react to the information that Yvonne told me. She had no way of knowing if it was true or not because she did not hear it directly from Helen’s mouth but judging by the fact that Yvonne said she had bruises on her arm. I think it was pretty safe to say that Helen maybe in an abusive relationship.

I got side tracked for a moment because all I wanted to do was make it better and then I realized that Yvonne was still in the room with me.

“Nik, I’d say let it go. It really is none of your concern.”

“Yea, you’re probably right.”

“So Nik, How’s about you, me and the gang go to your club tonight and just chill eh?”

“Yvonne, did you just say chill?”

“Yes, why?”

“You really have been living that American lifestyle, haven’t you?” I said laughing.

“Oh shut it, Wade! So, how about the club? You in?”

“Yeah, that sounds nice. I have to finish up here and head home and check on Jack.”

“How is that little Rottweiler of yours?” Yvonne asked kindly.

“He’s great, he is getting so big!”

“Well that’s good. I’m glad to hear it. Anyway, listen, Love, I am gonna head out of here and go meet Jesse. I’ve decided to let him help me pick out a puppy.”

“Alright,” I grinned, “I will see you at the club tonight.”

“Wonderful, say round eight-ish?”

“That’s perfect. See you then.”

The day again dragged by, as I was very worried about Helen. It seemed that every time I see this woman, she’s all I could think about afterwards. At this point, it was safe to say that there was definitely more than an attraction going on there. The thought of love once again crept into my thoughts and again, I fought to push them aside. Something about love that I didn’t want to think about, I just haven’t quite figured out what. It was most likely fear, but I wasn’t going to let myself think about it anymore.

Eeek! It seems I've missed an update... oh well, all caught up now. I like Dr. Wade teehee, and I like lovely, caring, vicious dog adopting, Helen even more *drool*

can't wait for more. :D

PS. *mutters* stupid Sean. Helen needs to dump him already so she can get with Docta Waaaaade. :swords

Seeing as its late here in Chicago and I am nursing a pretty bad tooth ache and I can't sleep at all. I figured I would drop by with an update. Here is Chapter 5. I should have chapter 6 up in a few days its currently with my beta at the moment.

Chapter Five- A Night Out At Chix With The Gang…and Helen?

It was around 8:10 PM when I arrived at the club. Most of the gang was already there except for Jesse, who was on his way over from the animal shelter. I looked around the club it was pretty crowded, but then again, it always was on a Friday night. When Trish and I had opened Chix, we never thought it would become this big, but it became one of the biggest gay clubs in Chicago.

I glanced around at our table and saw all my friends sitting there. Marcie was sitting in Audrey’s lap. Yvonne was sitting engrossed in conversation with Babs. Josie and Mario were talking to Drake, and from what I could make out of the conversation, they were talking about Jesse and the animal shelter and all the good he has done for it.

I walked up to the gang and was greeted with lots of smiling faces.

“Hey guys,” I said

“Yo, Nikki, how are you feeling?” Yvonne asked with concern in her voice.

“I’m feeling better than before thanks, Yvonne.”

“No problem, mate! Glad to see you better.”

“I take it this was about that scene in the office today with Ms. Stewart and that jerk that was with her.” Bab’s said simply.

“Yes,” I stated quietly.

“I was pretty worried about her myself, that guy seemed like he was about to hit her right there.” Marcie chimed in.

“I noticed it, too.” Drake said.

“Me too,” Added Audrey.

Just as the conversation got underway, Jesse walked in and said his hellos.

“So, what’s the topic of discussion?” He said, sitting at the table.

I sighed as I began to explain the topic to him.

“Well, you see, Jess, I had this client today, and her fiancé was a total prick to her and he started an altercation with her in the lobby while they were paying the bill. Judging by everyone’s response, we all thought the bastard was going to hit her.”

“Oh,” came the very quiet reply from Jesse. “I hope that she’s alright,” he added sadly.

Jesse knew first hand what spousal abuse could do to a person. His mom was a victim and ended up dead because of it. This is part of the reason why I am so worried about Helen, other than the fact that I am crazy about her. I saw what it did to Jesse when his mom died, and I saw how much it destroyed his mother when she was alive. Part of me said to walk away from this, that no good could come of it, but my heart was telling me to at least befriend this woman. That she needed a friend right now. I decided to listen to my heart for once. So sometime soon, I would give her a call and invite her out to lunch. Little did I know I wouldn’t have to wait that long to see her.

I had excused myself briefly as I went into my office to check on a few things and messages and just as I was returning to the gang I was dumbstruck when I saw who was sitting at our table talking to Yvonne.

“Hiya, Nikki,” Helen said sweetly.

“Hi, Helen, what are you doing here?”

“Well, I am here with my friend, Claire Walker, she insisted on taking me out tonight. She said she heard of this gay club that was the happening place to be and wanted to try it out, but didn’t want to go alone, so she dragged me along with her. She was here five minutes before she spotted a beautiful girl over at the bar and went over to talk to her. I was on my way to follow her when I spotted Yvonne and just had to say hello. I was surprised to see her! ”

“Oh, well, I hope you enjoy it, and if you need anything, please feel free to come and ask and I will take care of it.”

“What do you mean?”

Before I even had a chance to reply, Yvonne interjected.

“She’s the owner,” Yvonne said with a smirk.

“Oh, really?” So you’re a…”

“Lesbian,” I finished for her. “Is that a problem?”

“No, not at all actually, Claire’s gay.” she said with a sincere smile. “So you’re a veterinarian by day, club owner by night?”

“Actually, I bought this club with my ex-girlfriend and when we split up, she left me her shares. I am hardly ever here because stuff at the hospital keeps me busy and I have a manager who handles everything for me here at the club.”

“That’s wonderful that you are so devoted to the animal hospital. There needs to be more people in the world like you.” She looked over at me and smiled.

“Thank you.” I said looking up at her, noticing a huge bruise under her eye. I was a bit taken aback by it so I gasped out loud. She noticed the gasp and made a hasty retreat.

“You are most welcome. There’s Claire I better go. It was nice to meet all of you and Nikki, Yvonne, it was nice seeing you both again.” She turned and walked away quickly in Claire’s direction.

I sighed sadly, and apparently, everyone picked up on it.

“Nikki, what’s with sad face, at least you got to see her and you know she’s alright.” Babs said.

“Yeah, but didn’t you notice the huge bruise on under her eye.” Yvonne said.

They all nodded their heads. I needed a break from all of this and so I excused myself and back into my office I went.

I sat there for what seemed like hours but was only a couple of minutes, when I heard a soft knock on my door.

“Come in,” I said softly.

The door opened slowly and in walked Helen.

“Hiya.”

“Helen, is everything alright? Can I get you anything?”

“No, Dr. Wade, I just noticed the expression on your face as you were walking back here it seemed as if something was bothering you. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Wow, I thought to myself. This woman is downright amazing. First she considers adopting a dog who viciously attacked her and her pet and now she comes in to check on me, someone whom she only just met recently. If I wanted her before I wanted her even more so now.

“Thank you, Helen. I just have a lot of things on my plate right now and I needed a quiet moment to myself to think about things.”

I wanted to tell her that it was her on my mind, that I was worried about her, but I didn’t. I held back. I was just too scared.

“Well, Dr. Wade, I am here if you need to talk. I will leave you be but before I go I just wanted to apologize to you for today… About that incident with Sean.”

“Helen, don’t apologize on his behalf. I know he’s your fiancé, but that was uncalled for. He should be the one apologizing not you.”

Helen didn’t say a word, she just looked away and was staring at the door. It looked as if she wanted to run and hide, but something was pulling her to stay. I got up from where I was sitting and stood behind her placing my hand upon her shoulder. She turned to face me and had tears running down her face. I wanted to ask if he had hit her, but I refrained from doing so. I just pulled her into a gentle hug and let her cry.

We stood in the middle of my office for twenty minutes, me holding her in my arms and her crying her eyes out. When the crying subsided, she looked up at me with those amazing emerald green eyes and I could see that the life that was somewhat there when we first met was now completely gone. She was scared and fearful of this man.

“It’ll be alright,” I said.

“I’m, I’m just embarrassed by the way he acted in front of everyone.”

Her eyes found mine again and I took a good look at the bruise right under it. I gently ran my finger over it.

“He hits you, doesn’t he?” I asked gently.

She looked away from me and I asked again

“Doesn’t he?”

She nodded her head, yes, as fresh tears rolled down her face. I again pulled her into my arms and held her tight. I had to fight to keep my own tears from falling. She confided in me that night and in my mind I vowed to do everything in my power to protect her.

“Please don’t tell anyone,” she looked at me with helpless eyes.

“Helen, it is not my job to tell anyone, but sweetheart, he hits you. You need to go to the police or leave him. You need to get away from that man.”

“I love him,” was all she could say.

“Helen, if you ever need anyone to talk to, here is my mobile number. Call me anytime day or night. I don’t care what time it is.”

“Thank you, Dr. Wade.”

“Please, call me Nikki.”

“Thank you, Nikki. I better get back to Claire before she sends out a search party.”

“Okay,” I said softly.

I returned to my friends and she returned to hers, and before I knew it, the night was over and I was laying in my bed, my every thought being about her. I think it was pretty safe to say now that I had fallen in love with Helen. I just needed to figure out a way to protect her. I had her mobile number in Oscar’s file tomorrow I would call and check up on her. Tonight, I would try to at least get some sleep.

This is a great story, definitely looking forward to the next chapter hope you post again soon.

:D :D :hug

A very promising start to this story. I like the way Nikki and Helen are looking out for one another, even at this early stage in their relationship. Please find a painful way of getting rid of Sean the Prawn, in your own time of course. :) Looking forward to the next update.

Excellent update...you write a great story!!!!!!!!!!

Finally caught up with all these excellent updates :) Hope there is more soon, thanks.

Thanks folks for all your lovely replies. Here is the latest chapter. Enjoy!

Chapter Six: Phone Calls, Lunch Dates, and Roller Skates?

Morning came, but sleep never did that night. I just couldn’t get the thought of that bastard Sean out of my mind. Had he hit Helen? I knew he had. The vision of his fist hitting her face, her small frame knocked upon the floor. It was all too much to bear and sleep had escaped me fully. I got out of bed, had a shower, got dressed and made my way over to the animal hospital. It was my day off but I wanted to go in check up on a few things and pick up Helen’s number to give her a call.

I got to the office early and everyone there was surprised to see me and I just smiled and pretty much told them I wanted to get some stuff taken care of. I went to my office took care of a few things quickly and then went up to the front.

“Marcie, can you give me Oscar Stewart’s file, please?”

“Sure, Nik, is everything alright?”

“Oh, yes, Marcie, I just wanted to give Ms. Stewart a follow up call to make sure Oscar is doing well,” I lied through my teeth.

“Oh, well, that’s nice of you,” Marcie said with a smile.

Marcie handed me the file and I looked through it and jotted Helen’s number down on a piece of paper and handed it back to her.

“Well, then, Marcie, I will be on my way. If you need anything at all just get me on my mobile.”

“Ok, see ya, Nikki.” She said with a smile.

I got into my car and sat there for a moment. I was nervous as hell, but I knew that this is what I wanted to do. Something in my heart was telling me to pick up this phone and call this woman. So I nervously dialed the number and listened as it rang then suddenly the sweetest voice came through the phone.

“Hello?”

“Hiya, Helen. This is Nikki Wade.”

“Oh, hiya, Nikki, to what do I owe the pleasure of this call?”

“I just wanted to give you a call to check up on Oscar…and to see how you were?”

“Oh, well, thank you for your call, Oscar is doing just fine I...” she began.

I sensed a change in her voice and thought that Sean may have entered the room.

“He’s there, isn’t he?” I asked gently.

“Yes, that’s right doctor.”

“Should I phone you later?”

“If you wouldn’t mind, perhaps in an hour.”

“Okay, I will talk to you then.”

I drove home from the hospital and waited, and waited and waited, the hour seemed to take forever to pass by. Finally the time had passed and just as I was getting ready to dial Helen’s number, the phone started to ring, startling the crap out of me.

“Hello?”

“Hiya, Nikki, I am sorry I couldn’t talk to you before, Sean was sitting right there.”
“Oh, that’s quite alright Helen. I was actually just about to call you back, but you beat me to it,” I said with a smile in my voice.

“To answer your earlier question, I am doing alright. I, um... I can’t thank you enough for last night.”

“Helen, listen to me, don’t ever thank me for being a friend to you. I want to be there for you. I want to help you. Listen, I had ulterior motives for calling today. Today is my day off and I was wondering if you are free, and if you would like to get together for lunch or something?” I asked nervously.

“I am free, today is my day off as well and I would love to meet you for lunch. What do you say around noon?”

“Sure, noon is great, is there any particular place you would like to go?”

“You know, I am still not familiar with the area quite yet, so I am not so sure.”

“Well, how’s about we take the El downtown and walk around and see if we can find a place to eat. Then just hang out and I’ll show you around the city?”

“That sounds lovely, Nikki.”

“Great, then I will pick you up round noon and we will head to the train station. I just need your address.”

She gave me her address and we hung up and I was left to figure out what in the fuck I should wear. I know that it wasn’t a real date, but I had to look nice for her. I wanted to look nice for her. So I spent the few hours that I had to myself trying on clothes and discarding them all over my bedroom. By the time I had settled on simple jeans and tank top combo it was time for me to leave. The outfit was simple. The jeans hugged me in all the right places the tank top was black and quite frankly it looked good on me. It really accentuated my breasts. I gave me self the one over and once I had decided that I looked hot I was ready to go.

Once I had finished my grooming process I was out the door and on my way to Helen’s place. She didn’t live too far away from me so the drive was only about ten minutes long but through the whole thing I kept asking myself how on earth I could possibly be falling in love with this woman when I have barely spent any time with her. The thought escalated from thoughts of how I could be falling for her to how beautiful she was. That’s it! I thought to myself I’m not in love with her, I’m in lust with her! Well, then, how come I was so very worried about her well being? Simple, because I’m a caring person. Well then how come when you held her last night it felt so right? Okay, that’s enough! I shouted out loud to myself, smacking myself on the forehead. I needed to stop all this irrational thinking and just accept it for what it is. She’s just a friend. Just a friend… just a friend. I sighed to myself

My thoughts came to a halt as I pulled up to Helen’s place. Suddenly I was nervous as hell. I stood at the front door of her building reading through the names on the buzzer. My eyes found hers and I stood there staring at it for a moment willing myself to push it. Finally, I did and that angelic voice came through the speaker. “Nikki, I will be down in a minute,” she said.

“Okay,” I said with a smile in my voice.

I waited patiently on her front doorstep and briefly wondered why she didn’t let me in. My thoughts were quickly broken as she walked out the front door. For a moment I was awe struck as I noticed how beautiful she was. She was wearing tight, and I mean really tight, jeans and a really sexy pale blue tank top. She smiled at me and I smiled back and for a moment we looked into each others eyes. The moment too intense for me I looked away.

“Hiya, Nikki,” she said quietly.

“Hey, you ready to go?”

“I most certainly am, I’m starving!” She said excitedly.

“Me, too, lets get to the train station.”

We hopped in my car and drove the ten minutes to the train station and had a very interesting conversation on the way there.

“So, Helen, Yvonne tells me you use to be wing governor of Larkhall prison in London.”

“Yes, I was for a while then I decided it was time for me to leave Larkhall.”

“Oh, I see, any particular reason why?” I asked curiously.

“Well, Nikki, frankly, I am not really comfortable discussing it. There are too many bad memories involved.”

“I understand, no worries. So, what brought you to Chicago? What kind of work do you do here?”

“Well, I was offered job at a huge law firm in down town Chicago and it was an opportunity that I needed to take. I needed to escape London. There was just too much there going wrong. So, I discussed it with Sean, whom I originally had a hard time convincing and we fought and fought and I had told him ‘I’m taking this job with or without you.’ He said fine, than I will be there once I finish up this project I am working on. I left, and then he followed me a few months later.”

“I see. So what does Sean do?”

“Well, he was a gardener in London, but now he refuses to get a job here. Said this place is disgusting and has been trying to persuade me to go back to London with him.”

“Oh...”

“What is it, Nikki?”

“It’s not my place to say anything.”

“You’re going to ask how I can stay with a man like that, aren’t you?”

“Helen...”

“Nikki, I love him. Yes, he is flawed, but I do love him.”

“Helen, he hits you…” I said softly.

“Most of the time I deserve it.”

“Helen, no one deserves to be hit for any reason what so ever!”

At that moment, we arrived at the station, the conversation cut short and nothing else was said regarding the situation.

We arrived downtown and found a quiet place to eat, made small chit chat during lunch, then made our way out into the city. As we were walking around we stumbled upon a roller-skating rink, which caused Helen to come to a sudden stop.

“Oh, my gosh!” Look, she pointed to the rink! “A roller skating rink! Nikki, lets go in. Come on!” She took my hand and was dragging me behind her before I could even utter anything in response.

“Helen, I’m not too sure I can do this.” I stated nervousness evident in my voice

“Oh, I’m sure you can.” She said, smiling that smile of hers.

“No, Helen, I have never been on skates before!”

“Don’t worry. I will show you how and you can hold my hand, okay?”

I reluctantly agreed and followed as she led me to the queue where we would rent the skates. The line wasn’t long and before I knew it I was out on the floor of the rink gripping to the side of the wall refusing to let go.

“Nikki, come on, don’t be afraid!”

“No, no, no way am I going out there. I just know if I do I’m gonna end up breaking my bloody neck!”

“Nikki, don’t worry. I promise you I will help you. Now, will you please give me your hand?”

I let her take hold of my hand and was amazed at what a perfect fit my hand in hers was. I let the thought pass as Helen explained to me what to do.

“Ok, now place you feet in V position with your heels together and your toes apart.”
I did as I was told

“Like this?” I asked nervously.

“Yes, very good.”

“Now, keep your body upright and don’t look down.”

“Like this?” I again asked, even more nervous than before.

“Yes, good. Now bend your knees slightly with your arms out a bit like an airplane. Using small baby steps, march, don’t walk. Like this.” She showed me as she skated off.

I watched Helen skate for a moment and then did as I was told. She skated right up to me and took my hand into hers and before you know it I was sorta, kinda, skating! Until I fell flat on my ass, that is!

“Nikki, are you alright?” Helen asked trying to stifle a giggle.

“I told you this was a bad idea! My bum hurts!” I replied, frowning.

“Aww, poor baby!” She said giggling.

“You think this is funny. I fall flat on my ass and you’re laughing at me!” I said, feigning hurt.

“Nikki, I’m not laughing at you, I’m laughing at how you fell. Now, here, take my hand and let me help you up.”

As Helen reached down to take my hand she lost her footing and came tumbling down right on top of me, causing us to bust out into a huge fit of laughter. Once the laughter subsided, we both realized that she was still half laying on top me of me and we were face to face. Eyes locked upon eyes. Her mouth was inching closer and closer to mine and I thought to myself for a moment holy shit, she’s going to kiss me!!!, and just as our lips were about to meet, a man on roller skates came up to us and asked us if we were alright, breaking us out of our moment. I could have killed him!

Once we thanked the man, we decided it was time to head back as it was rapidly approaching five o’clock, and rush hour in Chicago was beginning and Helen needed to get home before Sean got there so she could at least have dinner started for him. We made our way back to the front of the rink, returned our skates and headed to the train station.

The train ride back to my car was quiet as we were both deep in thought. I couldn’t tell you what Helen was thinking, but the only thing I kept thinking about was that almost kiss we had just shared. I kept thinking to myself, was I imagining it? Did that really just happen? What would have happened if that guy hadn’t come up to us? Stupid man! It was a roller coaster ride of thoughts. Just then each of us was both rudely interrupted from our thought processes when the train came to halt at our stop.

The drive back to Helen’s place was a little more talkative. As I decided that the silence on the train had been a little too much for me.

“So, how long have you and Sean been together?” I asked not really caring but trying to make conversation.

“Three years.”

“I see.”

“Nikki, I had a really great time today,” she said completely taking the subject off Sean.

“Me, too, Helen,” I replied, smiling back at her. “Well, we are here.” I said pulling up in front of Helen’s building.

“Okay, well, I really did have a great time today, and I hope we can do it again soon. I would invite you up, but it looks like Sean is home. I better go up and get dinner started before he gets upset.”

Before I could say goodbye, I turned and Sean was standing right outside the car window.

“Where in the hell have you been, woman?!” He screamed, causing a few people walking down on the street to turn and look at the commotion.

“I went out to lunch with Dr. Wade, Sean.” She replied, frightened.

“Lunch?” He spat. “It’s bloody five-thirty now! Get your ass out of this car and go upstairs and start dinner. I am starving!”

With those words said he opened the car door pulled Helen out and dragged her upstairs. Part of me wanted to rush in and take her away from him. I decided on just going home. If I had gone after her it may have made things worse. I figured it was best to let things cool down some and then I would phone her later to make sure she was alright.

That night I tried phoning her several times and was unsuccessful. Eventually, I just gave up and went to bed. It was around two in the morning when my phone startled me out of my dreamless sleep. I looked down at the caller id thinking, who in the hell would be calling me at this hou?. I was surprised yet unbelievably relieved that it was Helen.

“Hello,” I said answering the phone

“Nikki,” a broken voice said on the other end.

“Helen, Sweetheart, what is it? What’s happened?” I asked concern written all over my voice.

“He... he hit me again. He’s left for the night. Said he couldn’t stand the site of me. So he went to stay at a hotel. I know it’s late and I’m sorry to call. I just... You said that if I needed to talk I could call. And I just needed a friend.”

“Oh, Helen. Remember what I said to you. I don’t care what time it is. If you need me just call. Listen. You said he was gone for the night?”

“Yes.”

“Would you like me to come over?”

“No, I don’t want to take the chance of him coming back and finding you here. But um... May I… nevermind.” She stopped speaking.

“No, Helen, what is it?”

“I was going to ask if it would be okay to come by you. But it’s late and you have to be at the hospital early and I don’t want to disturb you.”

“Helen, please come over. I want you to. Don’t worry.”

“Okay. Thanks. I will see you in a little bit.”

We hung up the phone I rolled out of bed, checked in on Jack, who was sleeping soundly in his doggie bed and went over to the kitchen to make a pot of coffee figuring if we would need it. It was about fifteen minutes after our conversation ended that the doorbell rang. I answered the door and was completely shocked by what I saw before me. This normally beautiful, amazing woman stood there, her face, was tear-stained and she wore a long sleeved shirt. I reacted protectively and pulled her straight into my arms. She winced as I had wrapped my arms around her back.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to.” I said, thinking I had scared her and let go.

“No, Nikki, please don’t let go. You just hit one of the bruises and it hurt some.”

“Do you mind if I have a look?” I asked gently.

Surprisingly, she didn’t hesitate to lift her shirt and show me her back. I gasped, fighting back tears when I saw what the bastard had done to her.

“Oh, Helen,” was all I could say.

I took her hand and led her to my bedroom and sat her on the edge of the bed. I went into the kitchen and grabbed an ice pack from the freezer and wrapped it in a towel. When I returned, Helen was still sitting on the edge of the bed, fresh tears falling from her eyes.

“Hey, I got you some ice for your back.”

“Ok thank you. Would you mind putting it on for me?” She asked quietly.

“Sure, just lift up your shirt a bit.”

She did as I asked and she flinched at the contact the ice made with her skin. I kept the ice on there for twenty minutes, rotating it from bruise to bruise. The time was spent in silence, as neither one of us knew what to say. Finally, she broke the silence

“Thank you.” She said, turning to face me. “You really have no idea what this means to me.”

“Helen, I know we just met not long ago, but just know that I already have come to think of you as a great friend. Spending today with you it was as if we have been friends for years. So I just want you to know that you can always count on me, okay?” I said, blushing slightly.

She turned from the position she was in to face me and our eyes locked onto one another’s. She pulled me into hers arms and buried her face within the crook of my neck and just started crying. We stayed that way for a while, when I glanced at the clock it was already three-thirty in the morning, and I figured we both needed some sleep.

“Helen, you should try and get some sleep, and I should as well,” I said softly.

“Oh, Nikki, I am so sorry I’ve kept you up this late. I know you have to be at the hospital early tomorrow. I should go home.”

“You are more than welcome to stay here, Helen. I don’t have to go into the office. I can have one of the other vets cover my appointments for me.”

“Are you sure? I mean, I definitely won’t be going into work tomorrow, but I don’t want to keep you from doing your job.”

“Helen, listen, the other vets are wonderful and I am sure will be more than willing to cover my appointments tomorrow. I only have four scheduled. It won’t be a busy day. I’m the boss anyway remember.” I smiled at her. “Besides, I don’t want you having to drive home in your condition.”

“Okay, I will stay.” She said, not hesitating one bit.

“Good, you can stay here in my bed and I will sleep in the spare room.”

“No, Nikki, I want you to stay with me.”

“Are you sure? I don’t mind sleeping in the spare room.”

“Yes, I am sure.”

“Okay. I’ll be right back though. I need to use the washroom and turn off the coffee pot.”

I made my way to the washroom and then to turn off the coffee, and once I was finished, I went back into the room to see the sweetest sight. Jack was curled up next to Helen, who was lying on her side.

“I see you’ve met Jack.”

“Yeah, this little sweetie came up to me and must have sensed I was hurt and just curled up to me.”

“Yeah, he’s like that. Is Oscar still at your place?”

“No, I dropped him off at my neighbor’s before I left. I didn’t want to leave him alone.”

“You could have brought him with.”

“I wasn’t sure.”

“Well, now you know,” I said with a smile. “So, are you ready for bed?” I asked nervously.

“Yes, definitely.”

I shut off the lights and crawled into bed, trying my best not to invade Helen’s personal space. Jack had made his way to the foot of the bed and things were quiet for a moment.

“Nikki,” Helen said quietly.

“Yes?”

“Will you hold me?”

I didn’t even hesitate to pull the small woman into my arms. After that it didn’t take long for either of us to fall asleep.

As I awoke, Helen was still in my arms and Jack was curled up on the other side of her. It was a sweet moment that I could picture doing every day for the rest of my life. Normally, I would already be on my way to the office I usually arrive there at seven-thirty and we open at eight, but this morning would be different. I disentangled myself from Helen and made my way downstairs to call the office.

“Wade Animal Hospital, how can I help you?” Marcie stated on the other end of the phone.

“Hiya, Marcie, it’s me, Nikki, listen I won’t be coming into work today. Can you have the other vets cover my appointments?”

“Is everything alright, Nikki?”

“Yes, I have a bit of an emergency to attend to and cannot make it in, but I assure you, everything is alright. Don’t worry.”

“Okay, well, I will let the other two doctors know to take your appointments and I will see you tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Marcie. Good bye.”

“Bye, Nikki.”

I made my way back upstairs to find Helen awake and petting Jack, who had made himself comfortable in Helen’s arms.

“Mornin’,” I said. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m feeling a bit better; it doesn’t hurt as bad as it did last night.”

“Good. I just called the office to let them know I wouldn’t be coming in. Just let me know what you would like to do.”

“I called my office while you were downstairs. If you don’t mind, I would like to go home and at least pick up Oscar and change my clothes, quite possibly even have a shower. Hopefully, Sean should still be gone.”

“Yeah, sure. I can drive you if you’d like.”

“Well, I did drive here last night, how about I take my car, and you follow me? Bring Jack with if that’s okay. I want him to meet Oscar.”

“Okay, that will work. Let me go have a shower and get changed and you just make yourself at home. I made a pot of coffee, if you’d like some.”

“Okay, take your time, I’ll just hang here with Jack.” She smiled that smile of hers, her tongue peeking through her teeth.

I smiled as I disappeared into the bathroom. I took extra time in the shower. I needed to relax. I just let the hot water cascade off my body, relaxing me from head to toe. What happened last night with Helen full on my mind. I hated that bastard for what he did to her. I wanted to hurt him. Seeing her so broken last night it just pulled at my heart. She didn’t deserve to be with a man like that. I wanted to her to be happy. I wanted her to find someone better. I know it couldn’t be me. Well why couldn’t it? She’s straight. She did try to kiss you? Yeah, but that might have been my imagination running wild. WADE!!! I chastised myself, stop thinking about this, she just wants your friendship. My mind left those thoughts and wandered back to the way she felt in my arms last night. To the way that Jack just embraced a woman he has never met before. You know, they say dogs can tell if a person is good or bad. I have never seen Jack react that quickly to someone. I wanted Helen. I wanted her so bad. I finished up my shower and got dressed and made my way downstairs where I found Helen looking around at all the pictures I had hung up in my place.

“Hiya, Nikki, enjoy your shower?”

“Yes, I did. Sorry I took so long.”

“No worries. You have a lovely home, Nikki. I love all the pictures you have up here.”

“Thank you. Yeah, I make it a point to keep many pictures up of friends and family. It makes the place feel warm and homier. “

“Well, from what I saw the other night, you certainly do have a wonderful group of friends.”

“Thank you. I love them all dearly. They truly are my saviors.”

“So, how long have you been a vet?”

“Three years now.”

“And the practice, how long have you had that?”

“It will be a year and a half in December.”

“That’s great; you own the nightclub as well?”

“Yes, I do.”

“How did you come about opening a nightclub?”

“It’s kind of a long story, but when I was sixteen, I was kicked out of the house by my parents for being gay. After that, I just wanted a place where I could go to be myself and not have to be afraid to be who I was. There are many gay bars and clubs here in Chicago, but most of them are geared towards gay men and so very few geared towards lesbians. It had always been a dream of mine to open up my own place. I had just started my first year of vet school when I met Trisha who used to strip at a nightclub. Trish and I became very good friends. A while later, Trish and I got together and dated for a few months. We were in bed one night discussing our dreams when I told her that I wanted to open a gay nightclub. She told me that the owner of the strip club was selling the club and moving to Canada, so I jumped at the opportunity. We decided that it would be best if we opened it together. A lot of remodeling and a few months later, Chix was born. After we opened the club, we also ended up buying a house together.”

“I see. Does your ex still co-own the club?”

“No, my ex left me about a year ago, to ‘find’ herself.”

“Oh, I am sorry to hear that. How long were you together?”

“Nine years.”

“Wow, nine years is a long time.”

“Yeah…” I said sadly.

“Nikki, don’t be sad about it. It’s her loss. If she wants to dump an amazing girl and leave, that’s her problem, you deserve better anyway!”

“Thank you, Helen.”

“You are very welcome. Is this the same house you shared with her?”

“No, I sold the old house and everything in it that I shared with her and bought this place.”

“Sometimes it’s good to start fresh. I sort of did when I moved here.”

“You did it to get away from him, didn’t you?” I asked already knowing the answer.

“Yes, I honestly didn’t think he would follow me.”

“Helen, I don’t understand. Why don’t you just leave him?”

“I love him.”

“Do you really?

“Nikki, I better get home, okay?”

The moment the subject changed, I knew it was better to just drop it for now.

“Yeah, sure, do you still want me to come?”

“Yes, I do”

“Let’s go, then.”

I got Jack ready and we made our way back to Helen’s place. Once we got there, I got out of my car and she got out of hers.

“Shit,” she said.

“What, what is it?” I asked concerned.

“Sean’s here.”

“Do you want me to go? Or do you wanna come back later?”

“No, come on up.”

We made our way up to Helen’s apartment stopped at her neighbors to pick up Oscar and walked into Helen’s place. Sean was standing there looking smug as always.

“Hey, Helen,” he said through a fake smile.

“Hi,” she said quietly.

“Where have you been?”

“Oh, I was out for a walk with Oscar, when I bumped into Dr. Wade and her dog. We got to talking for a bit and I invited her up for coffee.” She lied.

“Oh, well, hello, Dr. Wade.”

“Hello.” I said through gritted teeth. Secretly, I wanted to hall off and hit him.

“Well, ladies, I will leave you two to chat and I will be in the office.” He said smugly.

As he was making his way to the office, he came back out into the room with a dozen roses.

“Oh, Helen, I almost forgot. These are for you. For last night.” He said the fakest smile I’d ever seen. He kissed her on the cheek and made his way out of the room.

“What a pompous son of a...” I whispered under my breath for only Helen to hear.

“He means well.”

I grit my teeth together as I was about to start yelling at Helen for her stupidity. I managed to keep my cool even though it was hard. I turned my attention to the two dogs to get my mind off things.

“Hiya, Oscar,” I said. “This I my doggie, Jack.” I let Jack sniff Oscar and Oscar sniff Jack. Once it seemed that they would get along, I let Jack off his leash and Oscar and Jack went off to play, leaving Helen and me alone.

“Where did Oscar take Jack?” I asked.

“Probably to his bed, where all his toys are.”

“So, Helen, this is quite a cozy little place you got here.”

“Thanks, would you like a cup of coffee or tea or anything?”

“No, thanks. I’m good. So, tell me more about the law firm.”

“Well, when I was back at Larkhall, I started off as the wing governor, then eventually became the number one governor, which heads up the entire prison. I started a group called the Lifers program, which is specifically geared towards the special needs of the women who have to serve ten or more years. It was doing remarkably well until I had to suddenly leave. Anyway, Claire Walker is an attorney at the firm that I work at, and Claire and I had been friends for years and continued to do so when she left London to come here. She called me one day and mentioned to me that she had told the owner of the firm about my work at Larkhall and that they would be working with the prisons around the Chicago area to help set up a similar program so they wanted me to come out and run it. So here I am.”

“Wow, that’s great.”

“Yeah, working in a women’s prison has given me a whole new perspective on why women do the things they do. It’s surprising how many fantastic women there are behind bars whose lives just took a turn for the worst.”

“Yeah, that is kind of surprising.”

“So, Nikki, what made you decide you wanted to become a vet?”

“I always wanted to be a vet. I just love animals. It’s always been something I wanted to do. I’ve met a lot of amazing animals. Some of which I think have human like qualities. It’s amazing really.”

“Yeah, you are so right about that. Some animals do have a human like qualities to them.”

Helen and I talked a bit more about work when Sean walked in as usual with a smug look on his face.

“Sorry to interrupt, Ladies, but Helen, I was wondering if you were going to be making lunch anytime soon?”

“Yes, Sean, I will be.” She replied quietly.

I wanted to shout out to him, why the hell can’t you make your own damn lunch?! I had to actually bite my tongue to keep from doing so.

Nikki, will you be joining us?” Sean asked, cockiness in his voice

“Um... no, I better go.” I replied, not wanting to stomach Sean any longer than I had to.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay?” Helen asked with hopeful eyes.

Truth was, I did want to stay, but not with him around. I didn’t want to risk pissing him off and hurting Helen even more. I decided on going.

“Yes, I am sure. I need to get Jack home anyway.” I said quietly

“Okay,” Helen said sadly.

She walked me to the door and gave me a hug goodbye. When she hugged me, I whispered into her ear to call me if she needs me, and she smiled nodded her head yes.

I made my way home and was left to think about ways I could talk Helen out of marrying this jerk. Kiss her! What where the hell did that come from? I can’t kiss her. Yes you can! Remember she almost kissed you the other day. I fought an inner battle as I tried to no successful avail to push the thought out of my head.

The day went on rather quickly and soon I was in bed lying wide awake. Kiss her! Oh not this again! I thought to myself. Again I was fighting an inner battle to get the thought out of my head. Finally sleep came that night as hard as it was and before I knew it a new day was upon me and I was back at work.

Are you kidding me - Kiss Her!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry folks this is not an update but I did a photoshop image to go with the story. Im gonna post the link to it as it is pretty big. I made it to look like a movie poster sorta.

Falling Down Means Getting Back Up Poster

Great story and fab poster definitely looking forward to the next update.

:D :D :D :D :rolleyes:

I missed a chapter so I had two to read this time around. :D Brilliant update. The girls have such chemistry together, and I'm so rooting for them to kiss. It seems they both want it.... but Helen’s just so needy and vulnerable right now, so I don't know if it would go over well. Sean's a real bastard, and the whole time I was reading I just kept repeating in my head 'go on and hit him, Nikki... you know you want to. Punch his frickin head off' (probably not the most Zen thoughts to be having...must remember to keep repeating ''What Would Buddha Do" whilst reading this story from now on.)

Great chapter. Can't wait for the next.

xoxo
Emms

Thanks for the update. Come on Nikki, KISS her!! As for Helen, well ... Sean is such bad news so get rid of him pronto!! I suggest locking him in a room with either Nikki or the Pit Bull to teach him a lesson! :)

I agree kiss her already!! :kiss1 Awesome update, thanks :)

Once again thanks for all the lovely comments. Here are chapters 7 and 8 for you.


Chapter Seven- The Talk.

A month had come and gone and Helen and I were growing closer and closer every day. Ever since that almost kiss the day at the skating rink and then holding her in my arms after Sean hit her that same night, I was unable to get her off my mind. We had spent every free moment we had together this past month and I just needed to know what that almost kiss was all about. I needed to talk to her. Needed to find out what was going on between us. So I phoned her up and asked her to meet me for coffee at Starbucks.

When I got to Starbucks, she was already there, looking as adorable as ever. From what she told me, Sean was behaving and that was a complete relief from my mind.

“Hiya, Nikki,” she said with that amazing smile of hers.

“Hiya.”

“What did you want to talk to me about?”

“Helen,” I began. “I just needed to talk to you about that day at the skating rink. I mean we almost kissed. Since then we have been together every free moment that we have had. I just want to know what that means.”

“Nikki,” she sighed. “Listen, about the almost kiss. I can’t really explain it because I don’t know what came over me. I have never been into women before and I am not now. I am very much a heterosexual. I don’t want to hurt you or get your hopes up. I mean, you are a wonderful person and I am glad to have you in my life. You’ve become one of my best friends. I adore you,” she said sweetly.

“I adore you, too, Helen. I’m glad you cleared things up I just wanted to be sure where we were at. I mean, I am not looking to be with anyone right now.”

I know by telling her that, I was lying, but I didn’t want to ruin our friendship. She meant everything to me and I would rather just be “friends” with her than nothing at all.

The afternoon passed and soon I had left to go about my day. My one and only thought landing on “kiss her.” Oh great here we go again!

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Chapter Eight- A Party and New Family Member and Helen Wants To Dance!

After that talk, Helen and I had only grown closer today we were together at the club. It was our day off and we were preparing the place for the party that Yvonne was welcoming her daughter Lauren to town. Yvonne was off at the airport and the rest of the clan was working, so it was up to Helen and me to have the place ready by nightfall so that we could surprise Lauren.

Helen and I were babysitting the puppy that Yvonne had adopted to give to her daughter. The little guy was sitting under one of the tables chewing a rawhide with Jack and Oscar keeping him company. Normally, I wouldn’t allow the dogs in the club, but today the club was closed, as Yvonne had rented the entire place out to have her party and wanted the entire family there. That included the dogs and Helen.

Helen was standing on a ladder putting up some streamer when she lost her balance. I reacted quickly and I ran to her and caught her in my arms just in time. I was holding her in my arms and she looked up into my eyes with a smile. I just stood there holding Helen in my arms and looking into those beautiful green eyes.

“Thanks, Nikki, you can put me down now,” she said softly.

I did as I was told and smiled at her.

“You alright?” I said, tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear.

“Yep.” She smiled, and took my hand in hers kissing it softly.

I shivered at the touch of her lips against my hand. She pulled me closer to her and wrapped her arms around me just hugging me close. She held me for a minute or two. I don’t even remember because time stood still whenever I was with Helen.

“What was that for?” I asked as she pulled away.

“Just my way of saying thank you,” she smiled shyly.

“Well, you are welcome,” I said with a wink.

“We better get back to work so we can have this place ready before everyone starts to arrive.”

We continued to decorate the club and once we had finally finished we both took a look at the place and smiled. My eyes surveyed the room once and landed right back onto Helen.

“It’s beautiful,” she said.

“Definitely beautiful,” I said looking directly at Helen.

Just then, she looked up at me and caught me looking at her and turned away shyly but before either of us could say anything the guests started to arrive.

It was eight in the evening and the club was packed full of Yvonne’s friends and family and the entire gang was there at the table, the pups adorably curled up next to each other directly under it. I loved the way the group was embracing Helen.

“So, Helen, I just wanted to thank you for helping Nikki set up today. I really appreciate it.” Yvonne said to her.

“Oh, it wasn’t a problem, I was happy to do it.”

“So, Helen, where is Sean?” Mario asked.

“Oh, umm…he’s at home.” She said, but I could clearly tell she was lying.

“So, he decided not to come then?” Bab’s asked.

“Yeah, you could say that.” Helen said quietly

“So, Lauren, are you enjoying Chicago?” Audrey chimed in, sensing that the focus needed to be taken off Helen.

“Oh, yes, it’s lovely. I am so glad Mum asked me to move out here with her.”

I joined in the conversation at this point.

“Lauren, how do you like your mum’s gift to you?” I asked smiling

“Oh, he is just the cutest thing, I was so surprised!”

“What are you going to call him?” Drake asked.

“I was leaning more towards Otis.” She said.

“Otis is adorable,” Marcie said with a smile.

“Yes, I like Otis.” Jesse said.

“Otis is a wonderful name,” I smiled.

“Well, I think its settled, Otis it is,” Lauren said with a huge grin.

The night went on and the group continued to chat when suddenly Helen got up from the table.

“I feel like dancing,” she said, grabbing my hand pulling me up from where I had been sitting. “Come on, Nikki, dance with me.”

“Okay, Helen,” I said with a smile.

She led me out to the dance floor and a slow song was playing, and she just pulled me close and we started swaying toward the music.

As we were dancing, I stuck up a conversation with her.

“Are you having a good time?” I asked gently.

“Yes, the best. Your friends are wonderful.”

“Yes, they are.” I said smiling.

Helen pulled me closer to her.

“So, Helen, tell me the truth. You didn’t even tell Sean about tonight did you?”

“Nope,” she said pulling away slightly and grinning at me.

“Good for you,” I said smiling down at her.

“I just didn’t want him ruining tonight by bringing him along.” She pulled me back into the embrace we were sharing.

The rest of the dance was quiet. Helen had buried her head in the crook of my neck and I could feel her soft breaths on my skin. This woman had me weak in the knees and all we were doing was dancing. I thought about telling her that I loved her but I was too scared of how she would react so I kept the moment quiet and just enjoyed the dance.

Once the dance was over we made our way back over to the table and the rest of the night was spent chatting and dancing with the group. The only thought running through my mind was, kiss her already!

Another awesome update :) This is a great story :wub: and it is getting even better :) Thanks

very romantical (Not a word. I know. )! I was sad when Helen brought up that whole little technicality about being heterosexual but I think Nikki handled it just right.... but oh for F**cks sake can't they kiss already :lol1 ?! You left us with Helen's face in the crook of poor Nikki's neck and Nikki all weak at the knees... it's got to happen soon right [the kiss]? *prays*

lovin' this story.

:wub:

xoxo
Emms

I couldnt of said it better myself Nikki - kiss her already - absolutly brilliant updates

I have to agree this story just gets better and better great job keep them coming! :clap :clap :clap

Very very nice!!!

So as I sit here contemplating quitting my job and moving to another completely different country. I suddnely decided that I would give you guys an update. So here are chapters 9 and 10. Enjoy folks!

Chapter Nine- Under The Stars With You

Ever since that night, Helen and I only grew closer. Every day that we had off, we spent whatever time we had together. Sean hadn’t hit her since the night she came to my house, and that was almost four months ago. He had been on his best behavior. Helen seemed happy and I was happy that she was happy. Helen and I spent a lot of nights together, mostly at my place. I will never forget this one night; we were laying in the grass in my yard, Oscar and Jack cuddled up beside us when she just looked at me and smiled. I smiled back and she just snuggled up into my arms and buried her face into my neck.

“I love this, Nikki. Just laying here with you. I’m so happy we’ve become friends so happy that I found you.”

“Me, too, Helen, me, too.” I whispered.

I wanted to tell her that I was falling in love with her. To kiss her as my mind kept telling me to do, but something was holding me back for now. I just wasn’t ready to admit it. I knew she didn’t feel the same. After all she had made that very clear, even though part of me wanted to believe she was lying.

“You’re quiet tonight,” she said, breaking me from my thoughts.

“Yeah, I’m sorry, I’m just thinking about things.”

“Like what?”

“How happy I am.”

“I’m glad you’re happy, Nikki. You deserve it.”

She snuggled closer into my arms and we just lay there all night. That night had simply become one of the best nights of my life.

Chapter Ten- A Pitt Bull Named Harry!

A week had passed since our little starlit snuggle and it was now time for Helen to bring home the pitt bull that had originally attacked her and Oscar. The pitt had been rehabbed and was ready to be with people now. Apparently, he had really taken to the training sessions and had become one of the most well behaved dogs in the class. The pup had gone through many training courses and was completely rehabbed now

Helen had asked me to go with her to keep her company and I, of course, agreed. I drove in my car and we had Oscar and Jack with us, and as soon as we got to the shelter, Helen had this huge smile plastered across her face. I sighed to myself. I love her, I thought silently.
I got out of the car and made my way over to her side to let the dogs out and she got out of the car grabbed my hand and led me and the dogs straight into the shelter.

“Let’s go get Harry!” She squealed.

“Harry?” I asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yep,” she said grinning, and then stopped to look at me and brushed a stray strand of hair out of my eyes.

“Thank you for coming with me today,” she smiled.

“Thank you for asking me.” I said softly.

She then proceeded to pull me straight up to the front desk where she finalized the adoption. Then the lady at the front desk disappeared into the back and emerged a few minutes later with an adorable white pitt bull

Harry came straight up to Helen and she hugged him tight and my heart warmed at the sight. She truly was an amazing woman. She let go of Harry and brought him over to us and introduced him to Oscar and Jack and they seemed to get along great. Oscar was a bit hesitant at first, but then warmed to Harry. Then she looked up at me and smiled.

“Nikki, this is Harry.” She said sweetly.

“Hiya, Harry,” I said patting the little guy on the head.

Secretly, I wanted to thank the little guy for bringing Helen into my life. I didn’t say anything at the time, because Helen was standing right there but I reminded myself to thank him one day.

Helen smiled and we made our way back to her apartment, and the rest of the day was spent playing with the three dogs.

Thanks for the great update :) Can't wait to read more, I love this story :D

This is a great story, hope Harry gets rid of Sean, as he definitely going to go for Sean if he decides to hit Helen again.

:hug :hug :D :D :D

Great update! I'm glad that you aren't making us wait too long for updates! :)

Great more soon I hope

great update just love this story keep coming

Hello lovies! Just dropping by with another update. Hope you enjoy.

Chapter Eleven- Emergencies, Anger And… A First Kiss?

Weeks had passed since that amazing night and apparently, Sean was back to being his old self again. I knew his good behavior wouldn’t last, I said to myself. It was late one afternoon and I was sitting at my desk, going over patient files when Babs knocked on my door.

“Nikki, I just received a call from Ms. Stewart. She is bringing Oscar in on an emergency basis.”

“WHAT?!” I shouted. “What happened?”

“She said that he can’t walk on his right hind leg and that whenever she goes to touch it he becomes very protective of it and whimpers at the contact. She was on her way when she called so she should be here any minute. She also has Harry with her.”

“Okay, prepare exam room one for them.”

This was surely an unexpected turn of events. I couldn’t imagine what could have happened. Then it dawned on me. He wouldn’t? Would he? I put the thought out of my head and headed to the front to wait for Helen.

When she got to the hospital I rushed right up to her.

“Helen, what happened?”

“I don’t know, I found him like this when I got home from work. I tried to see what he could have gotten into. At first I thought that it was a fight with Harry, but Harry wouldn’t even let me near him. He got so protective.”

“Okay, well, let’s get him into the exam room and take a look.”

I tried to take Oscar from Helen, but Harry stepped in front of her and would not let me near him. Eventually, we had to have Harry taken into the back and put in a kennel so that I could exam Oscar.

We made our way to the exam room and I checked Oscar’s leg. I was almost positive that it was broken.

“Helen, it appears that the leg may be broken. I have also noticed some tenderness on his lower back. So I am going to have Drake take him in the back for x-rays.”

“Okay.” She said quietly.

Drake had come to collect Oscar to take him to the back for x-rays. Once he was out of earshot I turned to Helen.

“Helen, if I sound like an asshole, I am sorry, but was Sean there when you got home?” I asked anger evident in my voice.

“No, he wasn’t I don’t know how long he was gone. Do you think he could have done this? ” She asked with a shaky voice.

“Yes, as a matter of fact I do.” I said a bit more loudly than I had intended to startling Helen and causing her to jump back. “I’m sorry, sweetie,” I said lowering my voice some. “I didn’t mean to scare you, but yes, I do think he’s the one responsible for this.”

“No, no he wouldn’t do that to Oscar. Oscar won’t even go near him.” She said, half crying.

“Helen. I can’t see how Oscar would break his paw and injure his lower back on his own in your apartment and I know it’s not Harry’s fault because he was very protective of him.”

“I just can’t see Sean doing that to Oscar.”

That’s when I noticed a fresh bruise under her eye. I couldn’t bite my tongue any longer.

“Oh, but you can see him doing it to you?” I spat.

“Nikki, just shut up, okay, it’s none of your concern!”

“None of my concern, what about the night you showed up on my doorstep ‘cause he went off on you?! The nights you spent at my place talking about all the times he beat the shit out of you. I took you in, I cared for you, helped you, listened to you all because you needed me and you say it’s none of my concern!”

“I…”

Just as Helen was about to speak, Drake walked in.

“Excuse me, Dr. Wade, will you come to X-ray with me please?”

“Yes, Drake.” I said, walking out of the room, not even looking Helen in the eye.

I followed Drake into the X-ray room and took a look at the X-rays on the x-ray viewer in front of me. My suspicions confirmed, I grabbed the X-rays and headed back to the exam room.

When I had walked into the exam room, I looked around and saw Drake standing by Helen, who was holding Oscar, cradling him.

“Drake, can you take Oscar into the back please and prepare him for his leg to be set and casted? Oh, and please and keep an eye on him.”

“Sure, Dr. Wade.”

Drake took Oscar out of the room as I was placing the X-rays onto the x-ray viewer.

“Helen, I don’t know how to say this, since you so clearly believe that no one was responsible for this, but the x-rays reveal a clear sign of abuse.”

“What?” Helen said, shocked.

“Come over here.” I said gently.

She came to stand next to me and I pointed to the x-ray of his leg.

“His leg is broken clear across which can be easily set and casted. However, his back is what concerns me the most.” I pointed to the x-ray of his back. “There is a handprint clear as day right on his tailbone area. For this impression to be this clear on this x-ray he had to have been hit very, very hard.”

Helen stood there, staring at the x-ray in complete and utter shock, saying “no,” over and over again.

I placed my hand on her shoulder she turned around and buried herself into my arms, crying hysterically.

“I’m so sorry, Nikki,” she sobbed.

“Helen, I know you are. but I hope you know that I can’t let Oscar or Harry go home with you tonight. I am legally responsible for turning an abusive case over to the police.”

“Nikki, NO!!!’

“Helen, there is no way in hell I am letting that bastard get away with this!”

“Nikki, please. I won’t take them home. I will pay for them to stay at the daycare center but please, please don’t turn this into the police.”

She looked up at me with those helpless green eyes and my resolve was broken and I reluctantly gave in.

“Okay, fine, but I will take them home with me.” I said.

“Thank you, Nikki.”

“But Helen, I know you love Sean, but you need to get out of there. You can’t let him keep doing this to you. I wont allow it, and I certainly wont allow these dogs to come home with you if continue to stay there.”

”I don’t love him,” she said, catching me off guard.

“But I thought that…?”

“I was afraid to leave him.”

“Why?”

“I didn’t want to be alone.”

“Oh, Helen, you will never be alone as long as I’m around.” I said as I pulled her tighter into my arms.

We stood in that embrace for quite some time until she pulled away and her eyes sought mine out. Her face moved closer to mine. I thought about pulling away, but my mind once again screamed, “Kiss Her,” and this time I did. Our lips met tentatively at first then a bit deeper. When she pulled away her eyes sought mine out nervousness clearly written in them.

“I’m sorry,” she said quietly.

“Don’t be.” I smiled down at her.

I was just about ready to tell her that I loved her when Drake came in.

“Dr. Wade, Oscar is ready to be put in a cast.”

“Okay, Drake.”

I turned to Helen and smiled at her.

“I’m gonna go fix up your pup now. You can relax in here if you want, or you can wait in the waiting room. I will bring him out when I am done so you can say goodbye to him. Then we can head to the back to say bye to Harry.”

“Okay, Nikki.” She said sadly.

I went into the back, set Oscar’s leg and casted it up and then brought him back into the exam room where Helen was waiting.

“Here we are, all fixed up and ready to see his mommy.”

“Hey, baby,” she said in a tiny voice as she reached out to take Oscar into her arms.

“I will let you two have some time alone.”

“No, Nikki, you can stay.”

I watched as Helen held Oscar close and cried into him, apologizing over and over again. The little pup looked at her with his big brown eyes as if there was no need for her to be sorry. She looked up at me and handed him too me.

“Okay, little man, you are gonna go home with Nikki tonight. You’re gonna get to see Jack. How does that sound, little man?”

Oscar perked up at the mention of Jack’s name his little tail started wagging. I took him into my arms and gave him a kiss on the head.

“Helen, I promise I will take good care of him. If you need me you know where to find me. Well unless you want to come home with me?” I asked hopeful.

“Nikki, I need to handle things with him. I need to end things, once and for all.”

“You’re going to do it tonight then?”

“Yes, I am. I’m going to tell him to leave, to go back to London or wherever he wants to go. That I don’t want to be with him any more.”

“Okay, but promise me if anything goes wrong, you will come straight to my place.”

“I promise. May I go say goodbye to Harry now?” she asked gently.

“Of course,” I said taking her to the back so she could say goodbye to Harry. Once she had said her goodbyes, she turned to me and locked eyes with me.

“I should go settle the bill.” She said quietly.

“Don’t worry about that right now. You take care of what you need to do and you can pay later, okay?”

“Thank you, Nikki.”

“You’re welcome.”

With that, she turned and left, the kiss completely forgotten. I was left holding Oscar, and tears starting to run down my face. I had a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach; a really bad feeling. Little did I know that both of our lives would be changed forever that night.

You just had to leave me with a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach too? It better not be long for the update. :eek

Oh no! Don't like the sound of this! No! Not one bit! :o

Oh no.... bad feelings abound. I don't want Helen to go home to sean. I'm worried about her. *cry* I want Helen to go home with Nikki and be safe. Stupid Sean and his dog abusing ways. I hate him. Bah. *shakes fist*

great update. And yay for the first kiss. :clap

I'll fight Sean tho'--if he comes near Helen. I'll fight 'im good. :swords *thinks* oh wait... that's Nikki's job. teehee.

Please update soon...I am very nervous!!!

Hey Lovies! I took the day off as I have classes tonight so I thought I would get to working on an update for you. I have Chapter 12 here for you guys and should have chapter 13 for you fairly soonish. Enjoy

Chapter Twelve- The Phone Call

Hours had passed and that bad feeling in the pit of my stomach had increased. It was eleven at night and Helen had not called once to check on Oscar and Harry. I had phoned her several times to see what could be going on with no answer. I left a few messages and was getting more worried by the minute. I tried to get some sleep, but it never came. It was around three-thirty in the morning, and I was just about to drive over to Helen’s house when I was startled by the ringing of the phone. I didn’t recognize the number, and had a very bad sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. I answered the phone.

“Hello?”

“Hello, is this Nikki Wade?”

“Yes, who is this?”

“This is Dr. Thomas Waugh from County Hospital.”

All the color had drained from my face and at that moment I just knew that something bad had happened to Helen.

“What happened?”

“You were listed as an emergency contact for a Ms. Helen Stewart. Ms. Stewart was brought in at around eleven tonight.”

At that point I was already out of bed and heading out the door to my neighbors with the dogs.

“Is she alright?”

“Ms. Wade, I am afraid I cannot discuss her condition with you over the phone. Just head on over here and introduce yourself to the front desk. They will take you to her room and contact me and I will come and speak to you then.”

“Okay, thank you doctor.”

“I will see you soon, Ms. Wade.”

I hung up the phone as I knocked on my neighbor’s door and kindly asked them if they could look after the dogs, as I had an emergency to attend to and needed to get to the hospital fast. They didn’t even hesitate and took the dogs into their home. I ran to my car and to this day, I still have no idea how fast I was going but I knew I deserved some kind of ticket for reckless driving. I got to the hospital in record time and I made my way quickly to the front desk.

“Hello,” I said to the girl at the desk as calmly as I could. “My name is Nikki Wade, and I received a phone call from a Dr. Thomas Waugh. He told me to come up to the front and you would take me to Helen Stewart’s room.”

“Yes, that’s right. Come with me.”

She led me into the room, and I will admit, I was so scared because I didn’t know what to expect. When I got there, I was shocked at what I saw. Helen was lying in the hospital bed, unconscious. Her face was badly beaten, her arm in sling. I just stood there, staring in shock. The nurse broke me out of my trance as she spoke up.

“Dr. Waugh will be with you shortly.”

All I could do was nod my head as I walked over the edge of Helen’s bed. I reached out to move a strand of hair from her face and all I wanted to do was look into those beautiful eyes. I started to cry softly and was startled as I heard the doctor behind me.
“Are you Ms. Wade?”

“Yes, I am” I said, wiping the tears away from my face.

“I’m Dr. Waugh,” he said shaking my hand. “As you can see, she’s been beaten up pretty badly. We’ve done a lot of tests and taken a lot of x-rays, and thankfully she doesn’t have any internal bleeding. She does, however, have two broken ribs, a broken arm, lots of bruising, and a mild concussion. She hasn’t woken up yet, but it is not a cause for concern, as her body has suffered pretty traumatic injuries. We expect her to wake up in a few hours. We have given her something for the pain so she can be comfortable. Do you have any questions?”

“What happens if she doesn’t wake up in a few hours?”

“The concussion is not severe, so we expect her to wake up. If she shouldn’t, we will deal with it accordingly.”

“Do you know if they caught the person who did this?”

“Yes, a neighbor called the police after hearing a really bad commotion, and thankfully, they showed up in time to stop whatever was going on.”

“May I stay with her?”

“Yes, talk to her, let her know that you are here that might help her wake up quicker.”

“Okay, thank you, Doctor.”

“She’s very lucky,” he said as he turned to leave.

I stood there for a moment and studied Helen’s face. God, did I love this woman. I wanted to kill Sean for doing this to her. I wanted him to pay and pay dearly, but I knew that I couldn’t do anything stupid. I had to be strong. Be strong for myself and mostly for Helen, who needed me most right now.

I took Helen’s good hand into mine, and I don’t know what came over me that night, but all I can say is I started talking and just couldn’t stop.

“Helen, I don’t know if you can hear me or not, but I need to say this to you. I know I shouldn’t be, but I’m angry with you. I am angry with you for staying with him. For defending him when you had no right to. He is a bastard in every sense of the word. You deserve so much better, someone who will love you for you. You deserve to be loved like the amazing woman that you are. Helen, all those nights I held you. All those nights that you cried because of what he did to you. I wanted to take away all that pain and make it my own so that you didn’t have to feel it. There were nights when I just sat there wishing that you would leave him. I spent nights crying myself to sleep because you stayed with a man who abused you and treated you like downright dog shit when I was there ready and willing to love you. I know I should have told you and I blame myself for not saying anything. When you kissed me today, it felt so right, like heaven and every night you’ve spent in my arms it was perfect. You are so perfect. Your hand fits in mine perfectly. The way your body melds with mine when I hold you, it’s perfect. You and I, oh God, Helen, we could be perfect. I know you said you didn’t want to be with a woman, that you have never been with a woman before, but for Christ sake, Helen, I love you. I love you so much…wake up so I can look into those beautiful green eyes of yours.”

“I love you, too,” she said weakly startling me from my rant.

“Helen, you’re awake!” I said gently.

“Yes, Nikki I am.”

“Thank God!” I said relived.

“I should have listened to you, Nikki.” She said sadly.

“Helen, forget that, what happened?”

“I went home after I left the hospital and confronted him about what happened to Oscar, and he just went ape shit when he found out I took him in to see you and then left both dogs with you. He said that I shouldn’t have said anything to anyone and that I didn’t deserve to live. That’s when I told him I was leaving, and I was heading for the door when he just snapped, he started hitting me over and over again. The last thing I remember is hearing a knock at the door and hearing the police on the other end before I blacked out.”

“That bastard!”

“Nikki, I want to forget tonight. I want just let it go and move on with my life. I hope that Sean gets what he deserves. But as of this moment he is in the past. I want to look forward to a future.” She said hopefully. “A future that hopefully includes you,” She added quietly.

I smiled at those words. As I reached down to place a tender kiss upon her lips. She broke the kiss and cupped my face with her good hand and her eyes sought mine out.

“Nikki, I love you. I’ve wanted to tell you for so long. That day at Starbucks, when you asked me what was going on. I was scared. I wanted to tell you then, but instead I just lied to you.”

“I don’t understand, Helen. I mean, you know you could have told me.”

“No, I didn’t know that I could tell you. I was afraid you didn’t want damaged goods. I convinced myself that no one could ever love me, and when you said you weren’t looking for a relationship, I knew that you didn’t want me, either.”

“Oh, Helen, you’re not damage goods. You are this incredible, amazing, beautiful woman. I lied to you when I said I didn’t want a relationship. I wanted a relationship so badly, with you. I wanted to tell you how I felt, but you made it so very clear that you didn’t want a woman.”

“I’ve never wanted a woman until you walked into my life. You’re not just a woman, Nikki. You’re my soulmate.”

I smiled at her.

Her face turned sad as she looked at me.

“What is it, sweetheart?” I asked.

“I’m not beautiful.”

“What?” I asked confused.

“I said I’m not beautiful.” She turned to look away.

“Yes, Helen, you are.” I turned her face back to look at me.

“What’s beautiful about me? The fact that I stayed with a man who hurt me and my dog? The fact that I was stupid enough to believe he really loved me? Or the fact that I convinced myself that I loved him to hide the fact that I was really in love with you? Sean didn’t even want to make love to me anymore.”

“Helen, listen to me. That man is a bastard. He did everything in his power to make you hate yourself because he wanted to control you. Helen, you’re beautiful in every way.”

“What ways?”

“You really don’t know?” I asked seriously evident in my voice.

“No,” she replied quietly.

“Helen, you have the most amazing personality I’ve ever known. You are kind, sweet, gentle, funny, feisty, which I love, and so much more. Physically, you have this smile that just brightens up a room. The way your tongue peeks through your teeth just gets me every time. Those eyes, my God, those beautiful emerald green eyes, they are so sexy, so fiery, when I look into them, I just melt.

“I’m fat,” she said in a quiet voice.

“Helen, you are so far from fat, it’s not even funny. You have curves, Helen, not fat. Curves in all the right places, might I add.” I said with a wink.

“Sean always said I got too fat. I tried so hard not to be.”

“Helen, forget what Sean said! Sweetheart, you are beautiful. You are not fat. No way in hell are you fat.”

“But…”

“No buts&