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"Elena sweetie. I'm so happy to see you." Elenas' Father Gerald said as
he hugged his daughter. "And Erin, it's good to see you too dear."
"Thanks Mr. Touchstone. It has been awhile hasn't it?"
"Yes it has dear. Now you girls come with me and get a drink to warm
your bones. It's bloody freezing out there!" Gerald said with a laugh.
Elena and Erin followed Gerald into the living room, while Patsy went
into the kitchen to finish dinner.
"Wonder if your mother needs a hand? I think I will go see."
"Ok Dad." Elena said as he exited the room.
"See..this isn't so bad." Erin said nudging her best friend in the ribs.
"Yeah...yet." Elena said with a laugh.
"Dinner is ready girls." Mr. Touchstone said coming back into the room.
"Great!" the two women said in unison.
They all made their way to the dinner table. As they took their seats
Elena noticed the extra table setting.
"Is someone else coming?" Elena asked just as the doorbell sounded.
"Not that I know of." Gerald said looking to his wife.
"Well...actually dear, I did invite someone else.
"Aw Christ Mum...not a blind date." Elena said sinking in her chair.
"Not exactly dear." Patsy called as she went to get the door.
Elena was looking down at her napkin when she heard Erin mumble " Oh
Holy shit."
"What?" Elena asked as she looked up and saw her Ex Husband Mark
standing in the door way.
"Sod a dog." Elena mumbled as her mum escorted Mark into the dining room.
"Mark, this is a surprise. Nice to see you." Gerald said as he shot his wife a look.
"Hello, Gerald." Mark replied, shaking his hand.
"Hiya Mark." Erin chirpped.
"Hiya yourself. Good to see you, Erin." Mark said.
"Elena, aren't you going to greet Mark?" her mum asked.
"It's ok..she doesn't have to." Mark said upon seeing the shocked look on Elena's face.
"Oh nonsense." Patsy exclaimed, staring Elena down.
"Mark." Elena finally managed in a husky whisper.
"Elena...you're looking well." Mark replied.
"Good, good. Now everyone help yourselves." Patsy almost sang.
"Err...excuse me for a moment, would you?" Elena said as she stood up and walked out of the dining room.
"Where's she going?" Gerald asked with concern in his voice.
"No worries, dear. Erin, would you go see about our Elena?" Patsy asked.
"Of course, Mrs. Touchstone. I'll be right back."
Erin knew where to find Elena. She stood in front of Elena's bedroom door and drew in a deep breath.
"Ele?" she called through the door.
"What?"
"Can I come in?"
"Sure, why not."
Erin entered the room to find Elena sitting on a window seat, smoking a fag just like they'd done when they were younger.
"Lock the door. The last thing I need is for mum to barge in and catch me smoking." Elena said.
"Sure. Are you ok?"
"I'm fine, just fan-bloody-tastic." Elena replied sarcastically.
"Ele, I know you didn't expect to see Mark and that you're in a bit of shock and highly pissed at your mum, but we can't hide in here all night."
"Says who? How dare mum....I can't belive she invited him without telling me. I mean what the hell is that all about?"
"Look, I know you're upset, but I can pretty much guarantee that Mark didn't know you were going to be here either."
"Yeah, did you see the look on his face? It was priceless." Elena chuckled.
"See? Your mum is just trying to play matchmaker."
"I know, I know. It just pisses me off. And from the look of things, it pisses dad off too."
"Ele, I know you don't really want to hear this, but Mark still loves you. He always will you know."
"You're right, I don't want to hear it. Not right now at least."
"We'd better get back downstairs before your mum comes looking for us." Erin suggested.
"Let her...the door's locked." Elena snickered.
"Ok, fine then. Maybe she'll send Mark up to get us."
"You're pure evil, you know that Erin?"
"Yeah well, just one of the many reasons you love me." Erin laughed.
Elena and Erin returned to the dining room and took their seats.
"Are you ok, luv?" her father asked.
"Sure dad, I'm fine."
"So Mark, tell us what you've been up to lately? It's been awhile since we've seen you." Patsy said.
"Ah, well I've just wrapped up an interesting case and I'm starting on another one next week." Mark replied.
"Must be very rewarding being a top barrister in London." Patsy said.
"Umm, it can be."
The 5 of them finished their dinner with Patsy trying to make conversation. Everyone could feel the tension in the room as they quietly ate and avoided eye contact.
"Gerald, Erin...would you help me clear and bring dessert in? Patsy asked.
The trio cleared the dishes and disappeared into the kitchen, leaving Elena and Mark alone.
"I take it your mum didn't tell you she'd invited me?" Mark asked.
"No...she didn't. But then I'm sure she didn't tell you I would be here either."
"Actually, she hinted you might be, but she wasn't sure."
"So you knew that I might possibly be here and you still accepted?" Elena asked.
"You sound surprised."
"I am, actually. I don't understand why you'd want to see me of all people after all this time."
"Elena, whatever has happened between us doesn't change the feelings I've always had for you." Mark replied.
Elena was rendered speechless. After everything that'd happened, he still had feelings for her. She was brought out of her thoughts by the sound of her mum's voice.
"Did you two have a nice chat?" Patsy asked hopefully.
"Sure mum." Elena sighed. "You know, Erin and I should really be going. We've got a long drive back to London and it's getting late now."
"Elena, really now." Patsy began to say before she was cut off.
"Mum, we really should get going. Thank you for dinner."
"Ok, if you must." She said, hugging her daughter.
"I'll talk to you soon, I'm sure." Elena said.
"Bye dad."
"Bye luv. Be careful." he replied as he hugged her tight.
Erin said her goodbyes and she and Elena made their way to the car. Elena was about to get in when she heard Mark call her name.
"Be back in a moment." Elena said.
"Take your time."
"Yes Mark?" She said as she approached him.
"Don't be too upset with your mum, she means well."
"I'm not. It's just been a long week and I really want to go home."
"Have a date with Daniel do you?" Mark asked.
"No, actually I don't. And not that it's any of your concern either." Elena said very matter of factly.
"I'm sorry, Elena..I shouldn't have said that."
"Oh really now?"
"I only want you to be happy." Mark said.
"Look, I've gotta go...Erin's waiting."
"I understand." Mark replied as he watched Elena walk away.
"What?" Elena asked as Erin put the car in gear.
"What was that all about?" Erin asked.
"I have no idea. Mark just told me not to be too uspet with mum...she means well."
"He still has feelings for you, ya know?"
"Oh please. That's only cos we were married once." Elena groaned. "I still cannot believe my mum invited him and didn't mention it to me."
"She knew if she told you about Mark you wouldn't come."
"Damn straight. I dunno why she's so hell bent on getting us back together. It didn't work the first time, why would it work a second time?" Elena asked.
"Oh, that's obvious..it's cos she hates Daniel."
"Yes." Elena began "I know she does. She makes it a point to remind me several times a day. But she still doesn't know all the things that happened when Mark and I were married...nor will she."
"At least if was a quazi pleasant evening. No battle wounds to show for it." Erin laughed.
"Thank God." Elena laughed.
"Ele, have you given anymore thought to Daniel's proposal?"
"No..not in the right frame of mind right now. There's another mess for me to work out."
"What do you mean?" Erin asked.
"Well, I mean I really, really want to take this trip with Daniel. It's what I've been waiting for, Erin. But, then there's that side of Daniel that doesn't want any sort of commitment. I'm not saying I want to marry him or anything, cos that's not his style, but neither is a stable commited relationship...I would like something stable though."
"I'm sure you'll make the right decision."
"Ok...what *is* the right decision then?" Elena asked.
"It's the decision you make with your heart-not your head. Don't try to analyze it."
"I'm not even going to think about any of it tonight if I can help it." Elena said as they drove up to her flat.
"Wanna come in and hang out for awhile?" Elena asked Erin as she opened
the door to her flat.
"Sure...I ain't got nothin else to do." Erin replied feigning boredom.
"Ha ha....you are just a laugh riot tonight Ms.St.George." Elena said as
she headed to the kitchen to get a bottle of wine.
"Well....I do have my moments."
The two friends broke out into a much needed fit of laughter.
"I feel better." Elena said once she had caught her breath.
"Good.....so what are you gonna do about Daniel? I mean really Elena?"
"Oh Erin I dunno. A part of me wants to tell him to shove those tickets
up his arse...and another part of me wants to go so badly I can't see
straight."
"Tough call mate."
"I know. I mean...I love him, Erin. What am I supposed to do about that?
I know all too well the kind of man he is and I bloody want him
anyways." Elena whined as she leaned her head on Erins' shoulder.
"Wish I could tell you what to do luv, but I can't."
" Yeah me too. So, you wanna stay the night? It's awfully late."
"Oh what the hell." Erin said pouring herself another glass of wine.
"Oh my God! Do you realise we've gone through 3 bottles of wine?" Erin asked.
"Yeah...sod it. We needed them, or rather I needed them after being around mum and being surprised by Mark."
"I can understand you being upset by your mum, but the Mark thing I don't understand at all."
"Erin, you know how things were when Mark and I were married. You were there. I was totally ignored. He was all about his work and he put it before me for so long. He's not a bad person, in fact, he's a very good man. Things between us just ended on a bad note." Elena explained.
"Ah yes...enter Daniel Cleaver."
"Yes, Daniel. What can I say? He's extremely charming, extensively easy on the eyes and I'm crazy about him."
"Ele, I know he's charming and handsome, but you and I both know Daniel isn't to be had. He's not a marrying man. You say you love him, but you have to know somewhere deep inside that he doesn't feel the same."
"Maybe he just doesn't realise it yet, but he'll figure it out and settle down one day." Elena sighed.
"And are you willing to wait for that day? I suppose you think he'll settle down with you, right? Do the white picked fence thing and have the standard 2.5 children with you as well."
"Hey, it could happen. You just never know." Elena said.
"Ele, really...."
"But, I pretty much know it won't. I do have hopes, but I know I'm just fooling myself where Daniel's concerned. Erin, I honestly don't know what to do sometimes. There are moments, like when he handed me the airplane tickets, that I just love him so much. But then there are times, like the other day when I told him it was over, that I hate him and want nothing more than to slap the shit out of him." Elena confessed.
"Ok, look. I'm not trying to tell you what to do, but you really should get away from Daniel. You knew how he was when you met him and he knew you were vulnerable and it was quite easy, if I remember, for him to help you get over Mark."
"Mmmm...he sure did." Elena giggled.
"Oh God!!" Erin yelled "Please don't talk to me about sex with Daniel again. I honestly think I can do without it."
"You're just no fun." Elena teased.
"Maybe if I get several more bottles of win in me, I could handle it, but not just yet."
"You know, I've been thinking about this Paris thing." Elena said.
"Yeah me too. Let's take the tickets, go to Paris together, shop all bloody weekend and leave Daniel wondering what the hell happened." Erin chuckled.
"Evil rears it's ugly head again." Elena said as the friends burst into hysterical laughter.
Erin woke the next morning to the sound of Elena's phone ringing and to a splitting headache.
"Oh sod it." she said as she covered her head with a pillow. "Thank God for answer phones." she mumbled on her way back to sleep.
"Bloody, buggery, bollocks!!!" She yelled as Elena's phone began to ring again.
Erin gave up and shuffled into the kitchen in search of asprin.
"Erin, you ok?" Elena said as she entered the room.
"Fine, just fine. Got a bloody headache and your bloody phone keeps ringing. Doesn't anyone fucking sleep in on Saturday's?" Erin grumbled.
"Errr...it's past 2:00pm, Erin. We've slept most of the day." Elena replied.
"What? It's past 2:00?"
"Ummm-hmmm." We were up really late, laughing and drinking. We emptied several bottles of wine.
"No wonder my head is killing me. Feels like the bloody thing's gonna fall off." Erin moaned.
"Fancy a bloody then? It's a good hangover cure."
"Sure, fine. Whatever." Erin mumbled.
"You know, I think I've decided to go on that trip with Daniel." Elena said.
"What? I thought we discussed this whole Daniel thing last night."
"I know, but I really want to go on this mini-break with him."
"Ele, don't you think it will end up being a disaster? Have you ever thought about just telling him to sod off and moving on? You're a free woman, you *can* date other people, you know."
"I know. I just don't like the whole dating thing. Especially blind dates, which I'll remind you, I've had several and they all ended horribly." Elena quipped.
"Just because a few were bad doesn't mean they're all going to be. You've gotta get out there and meet the right person. But trust me, it's going to take more than one date to do so." Erin said.
"Yeah, yeah....I still want to go with Daniel."
"Well, you're a big girl, you can make your own decisions. But remember what I said. Go with what your heart says, not your head. I'm only on you about this cos you're my best friend and I love you, you know."
"I know" Elena said. "But I think I can handle this." she continued with a huge grin on her face.
"Uh oh. I know that look.What exactly are you cooking up for our dear Mr. Cleaver?"
"Oh...just a taste of his own medicine." Elena smirked in a satisfied tone of voice.
"Sometimes it pays to have been your bestfriiend since grade school." Erin laughed as the two women came down with the giggles.
Later that day after Erin had gone home Elena picked up the phone.
"Hallo?" Daniel asked.
"Well hello yourself." Elena purred.
"Lena. What do I owe the pleasure?"
"I have considered your offer.And I am gonna take you up on it." She said as she held the tickets in her hand.
"Wonderful, luv. I was hoping you'd accept. I know I've been a right bastard and I just want to make it up to you, Lena." Daniel explained.
"Well, all that's over isn't it? I say we just strike a clean slate and we have a great mini holiday in Paris, eh?"
"Oh, I definitely agree to that." Daniel said.
"Good, I'm really looking forward to our trip." Elena purred.
"Mmmm...me too. What are your plans for this evening? I'd love to see you."
"Sorry, Daniel. I'd love to see you too, but I have a lot to do in preparation for our trip." Elena said.
"But Lena, we're not leaving for 2 more weekends. Can't you do your preparations later? Daniel begged.
"No, I really need to get started, I'm too busy to do it during the week with work and such. I need to shop for a few things."
"Lena, you needn't go shopping for new clothes and such...I don't think you'll be wearing them long once I get you alone." Daniel replied in a husky, sexy tone.
"My, aren't you the wicked one, Daniel Cleaver?" Elena chuckled.
"I do have my moments." he laughed.
"Right. Well, I must be off now. I'll talk to you soon." Elena said.
"Yes Lena. And remember, don't buy or pack a lot of clothes."
"Bye Daniel."
"Bye luv."
Elena laid the cordless down, sank into her sofa and lit a fag. "Why am I smoking this?" she asked herself.
She narrowed it down to her mum and Daniel. They both seemed to stress her beyond belief. Elena was looking forward to Paris...she did need a holiday and it was also a chance to give Daniel a dose of that medicine she'd discussed with Erin.
The next two weeks seemed to fly by. Elena's excitment grew as she finished getting ready. She heard Daniel outside in his car.
"Ele, he's here." Erin groaned.
"Ok. I'm ready." Elena said as she entered the room.
"You look incredible." Erin said.
"Why thank you, dahlink" Elena laughed.
"Have a good time, be relentless and make him get on his knees and beg."
"Not a problem there." Elena chuckled. "Are you going to be alright?"
"Yeah, I'll be fine....lonely, but fine. Just go, do what you have to do and hurry back." Erin said.
"I'll be back day after tomorrow. You'll be fine, Erin." Elena said as she and Erin collected her luggage and headed down to Daniel's car.
"Bye, Ele. Have a good time." Erin said, hugging her best friend.
"I will. Have a good time and enjoy the peace and quiet while I'm gone." Elena laughed.
"Daniel." Erin said with a nod.
"Erin..you could come with us, you know? Menage au trois are very french." Daniel chuckled.
"Thanks for the offer, maybe next time." Erin said with sarcasm dripping from her words.
Erin watched Daniel and Elena drive off. She had no idea what to do all weekend with Ele gone.....
Elena and Daniel were already enjoying Paris. They'd done a bit of sight seeing and enjoyed lunch at a cafe, had a light dinner and were winding down a bit.
"Mmmm....Lena." Daniel purred playfully in her ear.
"Daniel, really. Go to sleep. I'm tired and nowhere near being in the mood for a shag. I just want a little nap."
"C'mon Lena, it's more than a shag."
"Is it now? So, things have changed have they?" Elena asked.
"I've changed." Daniel said.
"Oh really? Do you love me then?"
"What? I'm very fond of you Lena, you know that."
"Well, being fond of me isn't the same as loving me, is it?" Elena asked.
"Lena, let's not do this. It's still early yet....we could go somewhere."
"I don't want to go anywhere. I'm staying right here till I figure this out."
"Figure what out, luv?"
"The fact that I love you and knowing it's wasted, cos you don't feel the same." Elena confessed.
"What?" Daniel asked in a bewildered tone.
"That's right.....you heard me. I love you and I've felt that way for a long while now." Elena explained. "Daniel, why did you finally agree to a mini-break?"
"To be with you, Lena and to make up for being such a prat."
"Really? Or was it just to get me in bed?"
"Lena, please. If I just wanted to get you in bed, I could've done it just as easily in London. You're being irrational."
"No Daniel, for the first time in a long time, my thoughts and words are all very rational. I'm getting too old for all the bullshit and games. I'm better than this and I think, I mean I know that I deserve better. And no, you couldn't have bedded me just as easily in London had you wanted to." Elena said.
"Where's this coming from?" Daniel asked.
"It's been there Daniel. It's just time to bring it all out." Elena said.
****************
"Sod this." Erin said as she walked around her flat and collected her coat.
She made her way outside and began walking. She was bored without Elena and never just went out to clubs alone, but had decided a pub wouldn't be so bad.
"Pubs aren't meat markets like clubs are." she said to herself. "I'll just have a couple of pints and go home."
She assured herself as she walked through the doors of the pub.
Erin walked the couple blocks to the pub. Wondering about Elena and Daniel the whole time.She entered the doors and took a seat at the bar.
"What'll it be Miss?" the bartender asked.
"Pint of Guinness, please."
"Yes, ma'am." he said as he went to fill her order.
Erin looked around the room.Everyone was pretty much with a date or with a small group of friends.She smiled at their youth, not that she was old but it just seemed like her and Elena had gone through so much in their time.
The bartender sat the pint in front of her then went to tend to someone else.
She was looking around the room again when she noticed out of the side of her eye someone take the stool next to hers.
"Yes sir, what can I get for ya?" the bartender asked the man who had just sat down.
"Eh, just line up a few shots of Stoli. That should do the trick." he said with a laugh
"Rough day?" Erin asked as she turned and looked into the most handsome face she had ever seen.
"Nah, not really. I just like Stoli." he chuckled. "Care to take a shot with me?"
"Sure, why not?" Erin laughed.
"What's your name, luv?" he asked, handing her a shot of Stoli.
"Right. Sorry, I'm Erin St. George."
"Nice to meet you, Erin. I'm John."
"Nice to meet you, John."
"Cheers." John said lifting the shot of Stoli.
They both downed their shots and sat in silence for a moment. Erin was in heaven....she'd never seen anyone quite so handsome. "To bad Elena isn't here." she thought to herself.
"You here alone, luv?" John asked.
"Yeah, afraid so. My best friend is in Paris for the weekend, taking a mini-break, so I'm flying solo."
"Ah, I see. Is your friend male or female?"
"Definitely a female....and unfortunately, she's away." Erin replied. "If she were in town, she'd be with me."
"Sounds like you miss her. Is she off on business or pleasure?"
"Yeah, I miss her....been best friends since grade school. And her trip isn't business, but it's not quite pleasure either." Erin explained.
John and Erin took their drinks to a table and continued to chat. They were enjoying each other's company and chatting about anything and everything, including their best friends and found out they had a lot in common.
"What's your friend's name?" Erin asked.
"It's Nick. What's your friend's name?"
"Her name is Elena."
"Hmmm...sounds like we should introduce those two." John chuckled.
"Ele would never go for it. She despises blind dates, it's almost like she has blind date-aphobia." Erin laughed.
"Jesus, sounds like Nick." John replied, caught in a fit of laughter.
"I'm glad I came out tonight. You're fun to be around." Erin said.
"Well Erin, I'm glad you came out too. I've had a great time chatting with you." John replied. "Errr...Erin, you're not leaving now, are you?" John asked.
"No, I hadn't planned on it. I"m having too much fun to leave now." she replied with a smile.
Erin and John spent the rest of the evening chatting and laughing. It was growing very late and the pub was getting ready to close.
"Wow, closing time already?" John asked.
"The time sure went by fast." Erin sighed.
"Can I offer you a ride?" John asked.
"Thanks, I'd love one."
Erin and John got in his car and made their way to Erin's flat.
"Erin?" John asked as he parked the car.
"Yes?"
"How would you like to join me for dinner?"
"I'd love to, John." Erin replied.
"Would tonight be too soon?"
"Not at all." she said with a smile.
"I'll pick you up 'round 7:00 then."
"I look forward to it."
"You also said your friend would be back day afer tomorrow, right?"
"Umm-hmm..What did you have in mind?" she asked.
"Well, we could invite Nick and Elena to join us for dinner on Sunday night." John suggested.
"Oh, Ele would have my head, John. She despises blind dates. One too many bad ones, you know."
"Yeah, Nick would prolly want to kill me, but we could be sneaky about it, and I'd really like to see you again on Sunday."
"How would we do it?" Erin questioned.
"We'll discuss it tonight over dinner." John purred.
"Absolutely. It's a date." she said.
"I had a really good time with you last night, Erin."
"Yeah, me too, John."
"I'll call you later today and I'll see you at 7:00." John said.
"I look forward to it."
Erin was taken a bit by surprise when John leaned in and kissed her. Surprised, but very pleased.
"I hope it was ok that I kissed you." John said.
"Umm-hmm...it was fine." Erin managed to get out as she tried to regain her composure.
"G'night, err, goodmorning Erin. I'll talk to you soon."
"Thanks for last evening." Erin said as she stood in her doorway.
She watched him drive off as the sun continued to make it's appearance. She'd just had one of the best night's of her life. She was sure Ele would kill her for setting her up with John's best friend. How bad could it be though? Erin plopped down on her sofa, still full of excitment. She was ready to talk to John again and she was ready for 7:00 to get here so she could see him again. All these thoughts filled her mind as she drifted off to sleep.
******
"Oh bugger off!" Erin yelled when her phone rang.
"Wot?" Erin whined into the phone.
"Erin? It's Elena."
"Hey Ele." Erin yawned.
"Did I wake you?"
"Yeah, but it's fine. How's Paris?"
"Ah, Paris is beautiful, I'm really enjoying it." Elena said.
"Good, how's Daniel?"
"That's another stroy. One best saved and that I'll tell you when I get back home tomorrow." Elena chuckled.
"So" Elena began "What've you been up to? Did you stay in last night?"
"Ummm....I actually went to a pub last night." Erin said.
"Ah, I see. Did you have a good time?"
"Ummm-hmmm...I had a very good time." Erin replied.
"Did you now? What did you get into?" Elena asked
" I did. I met someone and spent hours talking to him. Had a great time." Erin said in a dreamy voice.
"Oooh! I want details when I get home!" Elena squealed.
"You know I'll give you every lurid detail." Erin chuckled.
"Good. Anyway, meet me at Heathrow in the morning, ok? I don't think Daniel's going to want to drop me home and I don't think I want to be around him any longer than I have to."
"Sure, I'll be there." Erin replied.
"Great. We'll go to breakfast afterwards and we'll chat." Elena said.
"Ok...see you then."
"Bye Erin. Go back to sleep."
"Bye Ele." Erin said.
Erin laid the cordless down and closed her eyes. All she could think about was her date with John that evening. Thoughts of Sunday night's deviltry entered her mind too, Elena was going to have her head on a stick, but someday she'd thank her for it. This was one way to keep her away from Daniel.
Erin spent her day keeping busy and trying hard not to think too much about the gorgeous creature that would be picking her up.
Finally 7 o'clock rolled around and John was right on time. He rang the buzzer for her flat.
"Hello?" Erin asked trying to control her nerves.
"Uh Erin. It's John."
"Hi John. I'll buzz you in."
Erin buzzed him in and was at the door waiting when he knocked.
"Wow." he breathed."You look gorgeous."
"Thanks." Erin replied as a slight blush covered her cheeks.
"So, where do you want to eat?" John asked as he opened the car door for Erin.
"Just about anything sounds good.But, I know this really good Thai place if you are game."
"Sounds great.Which way?" he asked as he pulled the car out into the street.
"Cor...I'm stuffed." John said with a laugh.
"Told ya it was good." Erin said with her own chuckle."So, what's next?" she asked as they stood to exit the restaurant.
"Dunno really.Anything you would like to do?"
"Honestly, just going back to my place and having a bottle of wine sounds nice." Erin said hopefully.
"I like that idea." John said as he planted a soft kiss on her lips.
Erin and John entered her flat.
"Make yourself at home and I'll get the wine." Erin said.
"Sure you don't need any help?" John asked.
"Thanks, but I've got it." She said with a smile.
John took a seat on the sofa and waited while Erin was in the kitchen.
"Here we go." Erin said as she handed a glass to John.
"Thanks, luv."
"I've had a really good time tonight, John."
"Mmmm...me too." John purred.
"Suppose we'd better enjoy the peace and quiet tonight, yeah?" she asked.
"Why do you say that?"
"Cos I guarantee it's not going to be very peaceful or quiet once Ele finds out I've secretly set her up on a blind date. I'll be lucky if she doesn't kill me." Erin laughed.
"Ah, the blind date. I'm sure Nick will be pretty vocal about it too. It's for their own good though." John chuckled. "So, what's Elena like?"
"Well, she's very smart, independent, funny and she's absoluely gorgeous."
"She as gorgeous as you, luv?" John asked.
"John....really." Erin blushed. "So, what's Nick like? Ele's rather picky where men are concerned. She seems to attract the occasional asshole here and there, that's why she's kind of picky." Erin said trying to regain her composure.
"Hmmm...Nick is extremely intellegent, very sarcastic, funny--he has very dry humour- and all the ladies think he's...what's the term? Eye Candy?" John laughed.
"Well, he has qualities Ele will like for sure." Erin gigled.
"Let's not talk about them, they'll get on just fine." John said.
What shall we talk about then?"
"How about this?" John purred as he leaned in and kissed her.
"Yes, I prefer this discussion." Erin said as he stared into his deep brown eyes before he kissed her again.
**********
"Ello?" Erin asked, still half asleep.
"Good morning, luv." John said.
"Mmmm...good morning,"
"What time do you have to meet Elena?" he asked.
"I've gotta be there at 9:00am, why?"
"I was hoping we'd have time for breakfast."
"Oh, that's sweet, John. I wish I could."
"S'alright, luv. We still have dinner set for tonight."
"Yes we do." Erin said with a smile.
"Go get Elena then and I'll see you tonight." John said.
"I look forward to it." she replied."
"Bye."
"Bye, John."
Erin laid the cordless down and smiled as she streched. She willed herself out of bed and started getting ready so she could meet Elena at the airport.
"Ele!" Erin called when she spotted her.
"Thank God." Elena said as she approached her friend.
"How was Paris?"
"It was fine...I'll tell you all about it later. Right now, let's just get out of here. We can go to breakfast.
"Ok." Erin said as she followed Erin to baggage claim and hen out of the airport.
"So?" Erin asked as they got in the car.
"What?" Elena replied.
"You know what. Tell me how it went."
"Well, I'd have to say that things between Daniel and I are over...Really over."
"How'd he take it?" Erin asked.
"I'd like to say he took it well, but it wasn't pretty. I think it's safe to say he got the message." Elena explained.
"So." Erin began as they were seated at their table "Does this mean we won't be seeing Daniel again?"
"Yeah, I don't think you'll see him around. He's not very happy with me right now....how pleased mum would be, right?" Elena laughed.
"She'd be so very happy to hear this." Erin chuckled.
"So" Elena said as she sipped her latte' "Tell me about your weekend."
"Well, I told you I went down the pub Friday night." Erin said.
"I want to know about this man you met."
"What do you want to know?" Erin asked.
"Oh, don't be coy with me. Spill it." Elena said, leaning in closer.
"Hmmm...ok. His name is John. He's extremely nice and extremely handsome too. Big brown eyes and the most exquisite square jawline you've ever seen.
"When do I get to check him out?" Elena teased.
"Well see." Erin laughed. "We went out last night too. He took me to dinner and we went back to my place and had a bottle of wine." Erin explained.
"Ah, I see. Did you do anything interesting?"
"Oh my God Ele! No way! I just met him...sheesh! He *is* a great kisser though."
"I can't wait to meet him." Elena said. "So, what are we going to do today?"
"Dunno. How about going out for dinner tonight?" Erin asked.
"Sounds good. I could use a decent night out." Elena sighed.
Erin and Elena arrived at their favourite Italian Restaurant.
"I'm glad you picked this place." Elena said to Erin as they walked through the door.
"Yeah, me too. It's been awhile since we've been here." Erin replied as she saw John and gave him a slight nod.
Erin and Elena were walking towards a table when in front of then stopped two men.
"Erin? Wow...what are you doing here?" John asked in mock surprise.
"John! You didn't say you were going out for dinner tonight."
"It was a last minute thing." John replied trying to hold it together.
"Elena...I want you to meet John.John this is Elena." Erin said.
"Elena it is a pleasure, and let me say, Erin said you were gorgeous but here words were far from doing you justice." John said shaking her hand.
"Erin, Elena. This my best friend Nick." he continued.
"It's a pleasure." Nick replied shooting John a look.
"How about we share a table." Erin said taking John by the hand.
"Sounds lovely." John said as the foursome headed for a table.
They had all been seated for a few moments when Elena spoke up.
"Erin, care to join me in the ladies?" Elena asked.
"Uh sure Ele. We'll be back." Erin said as she stood from the table.
Erin braced herself as they made their way to the bathroom.She knew there would be hell to pay.
"What in the bloody hell is going on here?" Elena asked as soon as the door was shut.
"What are you talking about Elena" Erin asked feigning innocence.
"Oh cut the crap, Erin.Playing dumb doesn't work alright."
"Alright, alright. John and I sorta planned this."
"Oh Erin...You know how I feel about blind dates." Elena whined.
"I know...just trust me."
"Bite me." Elena said through gritted teeth.
"Yeah well...fuck you too." Erin said with a laugh.
"Talk Taylor!! You set this up didn't you?" Nick seethed.
"Um well...Oh Nick come on.She is gorgeous.And it's about time you started dating again."
"John...you know I hate these things. And besides I am more than capable of finding my own dates."
"Alright then. When was the last time you were out on a date?"
"Um..well...there was this one...wait, no..." Nicks voice trailed off.
"Yeah, that's what I thought." John chuckeled
Elena and Erin made there way back to the table whispering furiously all the way.
They took their seats and everyone gave a strained smile. The waiter came and filled everyones wine glasses.
"I propose a toast." John said. "To Friends."
"To Friends"everyone echoed as they chinked their glasses.There was the sound of shattering glass.
"Oh shit.It got my finger." Erin said as she grabbed the napkin off the table to wrap up her bleeding finger.
"Is that blood?" Nick asked before he fainted and hit the floor.
"Ah great. What did you do Erin? Set me up with a pouf like your cousin?" Elena asked shaking her head.
"He's fine." John said as he helped Nick up to his seat.
"Yes, I'm fine." Nick assured as he regained his composure.
"So Elena." John began "Erin tells me you were just in Paris."
"Umm-hmm." Elena answered.
"Well then, there's something you and Nick have in common. He loves Paris." John said, trying to spark a conversation.
"I'm sure they have more in common than just a fondness of Paris." Erin said.
The waiter came and got their orders. They all sat in a strained silence for a few moments. Elena was ready to choke Erin and Nick was ready to kill John.
"I've got an idea" John said, breaking the silence "Why don't we go to the cinema after dinner?"
"That's a great idea." Erin replied enthusiastically.
Nick and Elena saw the excitment in their friends faces and Nick couldn't deny the fact that Elena was gorgeous, just as she couldn't deny the fact that he was the most handsome man she'd ever seen...even if he did faint at the sight of a little blood.
"I dunno." Elena said. "I mean I do have work in the morning."
"Oh bugger. I forgot about work." Erin mumbled.
"Well then, we can do the cinema some other time. We'll just enjoy our dinner right now." John said.
Their dinner was brought out. John and Erin chatted on and off and stole glances of each other, while trying to include Nick and Elena, but they didn't seem to budge one bit.
"Hey" Erin began "It's still really early, why don't we go and have a drink after dinner?" she continued as she shot Elena a look.
"That sounds good." John said.
"Ele....would you mind coming with me to the ladies? Erin asked. "We'll be right back." she said with a smile to John and Nick.
Erin locked the door behind Elena.
"Ele, what the hell is your problem?" Erin asked.
"What do you mean?" Elena asked with feigned shock.
"C'mon Ele, cut Nick some slack. It's not his fault that you're here. He didn't plan this...it was me and John."
"Yes, I know and trust me, you and John will both pay for this." Elena said.
"Ok, ok...make us pay, but don't punish Nick for any injustice you think we've done to you, ok?"
"Errr, yeah."
"Dammit, Ele..It's not so bad is it? He's very good looking, and he seems really nice. Just give him a chance, would ya?"
"Look, the only reason I stayed is because of you. I didn't ask for this and from the looks of it, Nick didn't ask for this either."
"Exactly. So give him a break. Jesus Ele, it's not like I'm asking you to marry the guy, just be cordial to him at least."
"Oh, alright." Elena said in defeat.
"Thank you...now stop being a bitch and let's enjoy the evening." Erin said as she unlocked the door.
Erin and Elena made their way back to the table and joined Nick and John.
"Everything alright?" John asked as the ladies took their seats.
"Everything's fine." Elena said with a smile...the first one of the night.
"So, how 'bout those drinks?" John asked, with a wiggle of his eyebrows.
"It really does sound lovely, but I am about worn out after the weekend in Paris." Elena said with a sincere smile.
"Ah well...that's ok.Gives us all an excuse to get together again, doesn't it?" John said with a wink in Erins direction.
"It does. And on that note I think I am just gonna catch a taxi and head home." Elena said with a yawn.
"Oh Ele, no. We came together. I'll take you home."Erin said standing.
"No, no. Don't be silly.Stay here with John. It's fine." Elena offered giving her best friend a hug."He really is gorgeous."Elena whispered in Erins ear as she kissed her cheek.
"Yeah....I know." Erin whispered back.
"Well good night all...sorry we got off to a rocky start. It really was nice to meet you both."
Elena turned and headed out the door.
"Well...That's my best friend." Erin said with a chuckle turning to John.
"She's lovely. She just felt a little ambushed." John offered with a smile.
"I actually think I am gonna head home also." Nick said noticing the looks on John and Erins faces.
"Nick, no. Don't" John said.
"It's alright. I think you two really want to be alone.And I certainly don't want to sit and watch. I might have trouble keeping my dinner down." he said with a laugh.
"Haha...Funny Rhodes." John said with a smirk.
Nick walked out into the cool night air.He noticed Elena was still waiting for a cab.
"Mind if I wait with you?" he asked stepping up beside her.
"No, not really." she said with a smile.
"Listen...I am really sorry about my behaviour.I have just had some REALLY rotten blind dates and I just couldn't believe she did that to me."
"That's ok.John did the same thing to me.I totally understand. I need to apologise too. I wasn't very polite to you either."
They stood in awkward silence til a cab pulled up to the curb.
Elena moved to step inside then hesitated."Would you like to share the cab? I hate to think of you out here waiting God knows how long for another."
"That would be nice. Thanks." Nick answered.
They made idle chatter til they reached Elenas flat.
"It really was nice to meet you. And I am sorry." Elena offered with a smile.
"Apology accepted, and I hope likewise."
"Absolutely.Maybe we will get together again.Hopefully under better circumstances."
"I look forward to it." Nick said with a smile as Elena shut the car door.
Elena went up to her flat, feeling exhausted. It'd been one hell of a weekend, and Erin's stunt of setting her up with a blind date was the last thing she'd needed.
"Finally home." she sighed as she dropped her keys on the table.
She found there were messages on her answer phone and against her better judgement, she decided to check them.
"Lena" Daniel's purring voice said "I'm sure you're upset with me. I am sorry about how the weekend turned out."
Elena rolled her eyes and erased the message before going to the next one.
"Lena?" Daniel said "Are you there and just not answering? If I know you like I think I do,then you're probably sitting there sulking. I said I was sorry. Call me and we'll talk about it."
"What an egotisitcal fuckwit!" Elena said as she erased his message and went on to the next one.
"Errr...Elena" Mark said, sending her into shock. "Look, I know you don't really want to speak to me, but I just wanted to say sorry for what happened at your mum's. I had no idea she hadn't told you that I would be there. I'm not trying to start a row with you, I just wanted to say I'm sorry."
"My God...where in the world did that come from?" She asked herself as she sank into her sofa.
"Dammit!" Elena grumbled, half asleep as she reached for the ringing phone.
"Ello?" she croaked.
"Ele? Did I wake you?" Erin asked.
"I think I just dozed off."
"Sorry, didn't mean to wake you."
"It's fine. What's up?" Elena asked.
"Nothing, I just got home."
"Ah, did you and John have a good time then?"
"We did." Erin squealed.
"You like him, yeah?"
"I do. I like him a lot."
"Yes, well he is gorgeous."
"Yeah well, it doesn't hurt." Erin laughed.
"I'm happy for you."
"Thanks Ele. I'm sorry if you had a horrible time tonight."
"It wasn't all bad, Erin. Nick and I ended up sharing a cab and we chatted a bit."
"He is nice.....and gorgeous."
"Yes, he turned out to be nice and again-the gorgeous thing doesn't hurt." Elena chuckled.
"Think you'll go out with him?"
"Erin, I only just met the man...under horrible circumstances to boot. I mean I was ready to kill you over this stunt you pulled. Nick was ready to kill John too from the looks of things. I think we were both terribly embarassed to be thrown together like that."
"I'm sorry, Ele. I did it for you. The further away you are from Daniel the better.
"I accept your apology. And, you needn't worry about Daniel. He's a right bastard, and I should've learned my lesson with him long ago. I'd rather slap his face as look at him." Elena said.
"Maybe he'll leave you alone now."
"I highly doubt it...he left 2 messages whilst we were out tonight."
"Just don't call him back, Ele."
"Oh trust me, I won't. I can promise you that."
"I know it's late, I just wanted to make sure you weren't mad at me."
"Nah, not mad anymore. Just a bad situation. Nick was actually very nice."
"Good. I'll see you at the office then?"
"Ummm-hmm...I'll be there."
"G'night, Ele."
"Night Erin." Elena said as he disconnected, laid the cordless down and crawled into bed.
*************************
"So,would you like to see Nick again?" Erin asked as she took a bite of her salad.
"Oh Erin...I dunno.I suppose.Like I said he was really nice and well....definitely easy on the eyes." Elena said with a laugh.
"Should I talk to John and see about maybe setting up another evening for the four of us?"
"Oh what the hell....go ahead."
Elena was sitting on her couch watching tv when the phone rang.
"Hello?" she asked.
"Elena, it's Mark."
"Mark?" she asked in shock. "How are you?"
"Fine. I was wondering if you got the message I left for you?"
"Uh yeah, sorry about not getting back to you.Just been really busy." Elena said trying to sound normal.
"Look...I was wondering if you would fancy having a drink with me? I want to talk to you." Mark said.
"Oh Mark...I don't know if that is the best idea, do you"
"Ele, please."he almost pleaded.
"Alright..sounds important.Where do you want to meet?"
"O'Malleys sounds good. Is that good for you?"
"Yeah, fine. See you in a few."
Elena hung up the phone and grabbed her coat.
When she got to the pub Mark was already there.She made her way to the booth where he sat and took a seat.
"What is it Mark?" she asked as she took off her coat.
"Well..."he said clearing his throat. "I have been thinking and I really miss you alot Elena.I never wanted out marriage to end and I see now all the things I did wrong."
"Mark.."
"No, let me finish. I am sorry for all the times that I wasn't there for you, but you have to know I loved you....I still do." he whispered.
Elena felt the tears well up in her eyes...why now??
"Would you come back to me Elena? Give us a second chance?" Mark asked reaching across the table to take her hand.
"Mark." Elena said in total shock before he cut her off.
"Don't say anything. I know I've made mistakes, and I realised what they were. I know how to be a good husband to you." Mark confessed.
"Mark..." Elena whispered as tears filled her eyes.
"I'm sorry, luv. Don't cry."
"I'm fine, really. I really appreciate you saying all those things. I guess I still needed to hear them, I've needed to for a long time. But now's just not the time for us to get back together. I do love you Mark I probably always will. But I just can't be with you or anyone else right now. I need to get my life straightened out first. She explained.
"I understand." Mark said in a defeated tone.
"I'm sorry, I really am."
"It's ok, I do understand. I don't want you to to feel pressured." he said as he squeezed her hand.
"Thank you, Mark. I think I'm going to go now. I've had a very long day."
"No Daniel tonight?"
"No Mark, Daniel is no longer a part of my life."
"I'm sorry, Elena. I had no right to ask."
"It's ok. You would've found out sooner or later." she laughed.
"Well, can I get a cab for you then?"
"Thanks, but I'd rather walk."
"Goodnight, Elena. I'm glad you joined me."
"G'night Mark." Elena said as she walked out of O'Malley's.
Elena stepped onto the sidewalk and made her way down the street.
"How did my life get so damned complicated?" she asked herself as she walked up to her flat.
Once inside, she checked the messages on her answer phone. She found several from Daniel, which she erased without even listening to, then she heard Erin's voice asking her to call.
"Allo?" Erin asked.
"Hiya."
"Ele, there you are."
"Yeah, it's me."
"Were you screening calls?"
"No, I actually stepped out for a bit."
"Ele, please tell me you weren't with Daniel."
"No, I wasn't with Daniel. No worries there." Elena sighed.
"Anyone interesting then?"
"Mark asked me to meet him."
"Mark? You were with Mark?"
"Umm-hmm. He wanted to talk to me."
"And?" Erin asked.
"Well, he apologised for a lot of things and he asked me to come back to him."
"He did? He must still really love you, Ele."
"Yes, he asked me to come back and he did tell me he still loves me."
"What are you gonna do Ele?"
"Don't worry, Erin. I explained to Mark that I just can't go back to him. Especially now...I've got so much going on. And I told him that Daniel is out of the picture."
"Are you ok?"
"Sure, I'm fine. I just wish Mark had realised all these things while we were still married, that's all. What've you been up to this evening?"
"Not a whole lot, just talking to John."
"Did you two go out again?" Elena asked.
"We did." Erin squealed.
"That's great, Erin. I'm really happy for you."
"Thanks, Ele. Ummm...John and I discussed another meeting with you and Nick."
"Did you know?" Elena teased.
"Yeah. I told John I had your permission this time and we relayed that to Nick as well."
"Oh God....What did Nick say?
"Nick accepted, since you agreed to it too. He wants to see you again, so that cab ride must've helped out, eh?"
"We just made idle chat. Not a deep, indepth discussion, Erin."
"Well, whatever it was, it worked."
"So, when's this event taking place?"
"We're making it for Friday night. The 4 of us can go out to dinner and just go from there."
"Sounds good, Erin. But if he faints again, I'm outta there." Elena laughed.
Elena was working on some numbers when Erin knocked on her office door.
"Are you ready to go? You didn't meet me at the lift,so I thought I better come see if you were alive in here." Erin chuckled.
"Yeah...just really into these numbers." Elena said as she stretched.
"Ah, well...We had better make tracks if we are gonna get ready to see John and Nick tonight."
"Aw shit...is it Friday already?"
"You know damn well it is...Now get your coat and come on!" Erin ordered.
Erin dropped Elena off at her flat then raced home to get ready herself.
Elena had just finished the last touches of makeup when the phone rang.
"Hello?"
"Ele, it's me. John and Nick just got here and we will be on our way shortly.And I never did ask you...what are you wearing tonight?"
"Um...a black evening suit...why?"
"Oh, you know me.I have to know these things!" Erin laughed.
There was lots of chatter and laughing over dinner...everyone genuinely enjoying themselves.
"So...what would you ladies like to do now?" John asked.
"Well...there is a new movie at the cinema.It's supposed to be pretty good."Elena offered.
"Sounds great." Nick added.
"Then a movie it is." John said taking Erins hand and standing to leave the table.
The theater was just a few blocks up from the restaurant so the foursome decided to walk.
Erin and John walked ahead.They were laughing, and stealing quick kisses.
Elena was really happy for Erin, but she also realized how messed up her love life was.She let out a tiny sigh.
"You ok?" Nick asked.
"I guess so. Just seeing them together makes me think."
"Is it alright if I ask about what?"
"My life...and how empty it feels sometimes."
"Oh surely it's not that bad."
"You just don't even know." Elena replied with a defeated smile.
"Does it have anything to do with your ex husband? Or with the man you just broke up with"
"A little I guess.I really loved Mark.But over time he got more into his career and forgot about me. We stopped doing things together.We stopped making love. But Daniel was all too willing" Elena stopped herself cold.She was telling all of this to a stranger. Why?
Nick saw the embarrassed look on her face and couldn't help but feel sorry for her.
"It's ok.Don't be ashamed.Really...I don't mind listening." he said gently.
"Thanks."she replied.
Elena and Nick caught up to John and Erin and made their way into the theater.
The foursome found seats in the dark theatre and got settled. Elena found herself sitting between Erin and Nick.
"How 'bout a quick trip to the ladies before the movie starts?" Erin asked.
"Ok." Elena said as she stood up.
The two friends excused themselves. Once in the ladies room, the closed the door behind them.
"So, whaddaya think?" Erin asked.
"About what?"
"Duh! About Nick? He's nice, eh?"
"Yes, he's very nice. I still can't believe I told him such personal things."
"Nothing wrong with that, Ele. It has to be a sign."
"A sign? Of what? That I've gone completely 'round the bend?" Elena asked.
"No...a sign that you feel comfortable around him. You like him Ele, admit it."
"I guess I feel comfortable and he is very nice. But I dunno about getting involved."
"Nobody's saying anything about getting involved. Just enjoy yourself and have a good time, ok?"
"I'm having a good time." Elena said.
"Good. Nick's having a good time too."
"Not to change the subject." Elena said as she applied lipgloss "But, I can tell you and John really like each other."
"Yeah, I do like him. He's great." Erin said with a smile.
"You two are like 2 little lovesick puppies." Elena laughed.
"Yeah, well..."
"C'mon" Elena said, grabbing Erin's hand "We'd best get back before the movie starts."
The foursome walked out of the theatre still laughing and discussing the movie.
"What's next?" John asked, holding on to Erin.
"Well, we could go have drinks." Erin offered.
"Elena?" Nick asked.
"Sounds good to me." Elena agreed.
John and Erin walked ahead, arms still wrapped around each other. Elena smiled, but felt that empty feeling again, until she felt Nick take her hand in his.
"Is this ok?" he asked.
"Umm-hmm." Was all Elena could manage to get out. It'd been a long time since anyone had just held her hand.
"You're quiet." Nick said "Something wrong?"
"Sorry, I didn't realise I was. Nothing's wrong though. I suppose I was just lost in my thoughts." she said wistfully.
"Thinking about your life again?"
"No, not really. I was thinking about what a good time I'm having tonight."
"Good, I'm glad to hear that." Nick said with a smile as he gave her hand a squeeze.
They entered the pub behind John and Erin, found a table and put in their drink order. John, Erin, Elena and Nick had a few rounds and spent the rest of the night talking and laughing.
"Ummm...I think we're about to be kicked out." Nick said.
"Why's that? Have we been to rowdy?" John asked.
"It appears it's closing time." Nick chuckled.
"You've gotta be joking." Erin giggled.
"No, he's right." Elena laughed "It's 3:00am."
"Time flies when you're having fun, eh?" John asked.
"It most certainly does." Elena said as she gave a genuine smile to Nick.
They left the pub, loaded up in John's car and headed to Elena's flat. She thanked John and told Erin to call her later, before bidding them goodnight. Nick held the door for her as she exited John's car.
"Would you mind if I walk up with you?" Nick asked.
"Not at all." Elena replied.
They reached her door, still smiling at each other.
"This is me." She said.
"Elena, I had a wonderful time with you tonight."
"Thanks Nick. I did too."
"Can I call you sometime?" he asked.
"Yes, I'd like that."
"Maybe next time we can go out alone, just the two of us."
"I think that'd be great...Probably less stressful without our 'nannies' watching over us." Elena said, causing them both to break into a fit of laughter.
They'd finally regained their composure and Elena found herself staring deep into Nick's green eyes. She felt his full, soft lips on her's. She seemed to melt in his arms as she savoured the sweet taste of his lips.
Nick smiled sweetly as he looked into Elena's green eyes.
"G'night, Elena. I'll call you later today, if that's alright."
"I'd like that. G'night Nick." Elena replied, still dazed by his kiss.
Elena closed her door, still feeling like she was in a dream-realm. She kicked her shoes off, changed clothes and switched on the telly. She was nowhere near being sleepy.
"Shit." Elena mumbled when she saw messages on her answer phone. She knew they weren't from Erin. The only other people wo ever phoned her were her mum, Daniel and as of late, Mark.
"What the hell?" Elena said as she hit the button and began to listen to the messages.
"Elena?" her mum chirped.
"No way." she said as she erased the message.
"Lena." Daniel said.
"Hell no!" she said as she erased his message.
"Why does he insist on doing this?" Elena asked herself as she curled up on the sofa and made herself comfortable.
Soon, she was drifting off to sleep, just as the sun was making it's apprearance.
***********************
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