Complications Minor Chapter 15 (of 20)
Oct. 22nd, 2008 12:39 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
misssara11Title: Complications Minor
A Blackpool/Secret Diary of a Call Girl crossover with just a hint of Keen Eddie
Rating: M
Paring: Peter Carlisle/Hannah Baxter
Spoilers: All of Blackpool and S1 of Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Summary: It's a simple arrangement. Right?
Previous chapters can be found here.
Chapter Summary: Hannah calls Peter on his slip last time and the December holidays are celebrated in their own unique fashion.
AN:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
swankkat and kalleah made this whole thing better (except for the socks, I'm just indulging them on that bit). And the first book is, of course, real. I think we all know the second one is as well.
Peter knocked on Hannah’s door and smiled brightly when she opened it. It quickly disappeared when he saw her serious expression. She motioned him in and they sat on the sofa by the kitchen. Before he could say anything, she spoke.
“You called me your girlfriend.”
Whatever he was expecting, it wasn’t that. “I suppose I did.” He played it cool but on the inside he was berating himself. He’d rushed in again. It’s what caused Natalie to end almost before it began. “Is that a problem?”
“I don’t know. It’s been a long time since I’ve been a proper girlfriend and it’s the first time since I’ve done this job. It’s just something we hadn’t discussed.”
He took her hand. “Well, let’s see. We spend a lot of our off-time together. We are dating. We kiss. We’re having frankly amazing sex quite often. I don’t want to do any of these things with anyone else. And I just plain like you. What about you?”
Hannah took her hand back, stood and started pacing. “Yeah, but I’m a rubbish girlfriend! Ask any of my exes! I’ll call Ben right now.”
“Well, why is that?”
“I’ve cheated on all of them.”
“I know you sleep with other men as a job. While it’s not my first choice of occupation for you, I’m not going to ask you to quit on my account. That would be very hypocritical on my part. So, that takes care of that, unless you’re planning to run away with one of them, I’m good. Why did you cheat?”
“Because I got bored.”
Peter grabbed Hannah by her waist and pulled her into his lap. “I’ll just have to keep things interesting. Or maybe you didn’t want it to work.”
She fingered the cuff of his jumper. “Maybe a bit. What would they want with me? I’d just break their heart.”
“Maybe you just beat them to the punch. Defence mechanism before they could do it to you. You’d hardly be the first.”
“I think you may be on to something. And that sounds like the voice of experience talking.” He nodded. “So why risk it?”
“Don’t you realise you’re worth the effort?”
“That’s the thing. I’m not.”
He pulled her chin to look at him. “Yes. To me you are.” He looked away and rubbed her arms. “Honestly, on paper neither of us is much of a catch.”
“Thanks.”
“You’re welcome. But the thing is I keep waiting for you to see through me and run away. Do you know I’ve only told one other person what happened in Blackpool? I told you that day in the coffee shop because part of me is always on guard and I wanted you to know what you were getting yourself into. And if you’d turned me down, I’d know it was because I was too messed up.
“Look, this whole thing could go pear-shaped tomorrow. Or it could be incredible. I think it’s worth while to find out. We could end up hating one another. Or we could make something fantastic together. There’s a good chance we’ll lie and hurt out of spite. There’s a better chance we’ll spend hours in bed because we can’t get enough of each other. But we have to try.”
“You certainly are honest about the whole picture, aren’t you?”
“That’s my problem. I’m a cynical bastard but a die-hard romantic. Yeah, I should have talked to you about it. But Hannah, I’ve been calling you my girl in my mind since our day playing tourist. I don’t want to pressure you into something you’re not ready for. I’ve done that before and I’m trying to learn from my mistakes. I’m growing as a person.”
The silence seemed to stretch forever. Peter rested a hand on her leg. Hannah picked at his sleeve as she said, “I could break your heart.”
“And I could break yours.” She started to close up again. “Hannah, say something.”
“I say I guess I have a boyfriend.” She turned and smiled at him.
“Good.” They sealed it with a kiss. That led to several. That led to them lying down and Peter’s jumper thrown somewhere across the room.
Hannah’s hands stopped at his belt buckle. “Do you have…?”
“I did but then we…”
“Oh yeah.” They smiled at the shared memory.
“You?”
“In my bag. Which is,” she pointed over her shoulder and turned to look, “not there. Meet you in the bedroom?”
“Yep.” He helped her up and they went their separate ways. Peter started to undress in order to expedite the process when Hannah joined him again. He had slipped out of his shoes and socks, taken off his shirt and vest, and unbuckled his belt when she entered brandishing a box.
“Just in case the stash in here was running low. Now, where were we?” Before he could answer, she shoved him on to the bed and straddled his hips. Together they removed her jumper and he ran his hands over the silk of her camisole as they resumed kissing.
Hannah reached down and opened Peter’s trousers and then moved to do the same with her jeans when Peter’s mobile went off.
“Bloody hell! Who the fu- WHAT?!”
Monty’s far too chipper voice said, “Peter, my friend, buy me your drink!”
“I can’t. I’m at Hannah’s.”
“So, drinks at Hannah’s?”
“Monty, if I ever interrupted you doing what I’m attempting to do right now, you wouldn’t talk to me for a week. I. AM. AT. HANNAH’S.”
“Oh. OH! Sorry. I’m so sorry. Give her my best. And do that thing I told you about!” Peter shut the phone.
“Wanker. I may harm him some day.” He looked up to see Hannah biting the tip of her index finger and smiling at him. “Was I saying something?”
“Nothing important.” She squealed as he flipped her over. While he was pulling down her jeans, she was opening the box and pulling out a packet.
And then the doorbell went.
Peter mumbled against Hannah’s neck. “I thought you didn’t have anyone until much later.”
“I don’t and it’s an out call. Get up. I’ll see who it is.” She got up and pulled her jumper over her head.
She was about to head out when he stopped her, “Uh, Hannah, you might want to…” he pointed to her waist.
She followed his finger. “Oh. Yeah. Thanks.” She pulled up her zip as she left the room. He pulled on his socks and was buttoning up his shirt when he heard Hannah’s overly cheery voice. “Ben! Peter, it’s Ben! And he’s brought dinner it seems.” Peter wandered into the hall and gave Ben a nod hello which was returned. “Isn’t that nice?” Hannah gave him a tight smile.
“Well, we need to eat. Take it on through.” When Ben was out of earshot, Peter leaned in, “We can hurry through and get him out the door.”
“You don’t know Ben, but it’s worth a shot.”
The three of them set the table and tucked in. Ben licked a finger clean. “So, Hannah tells me you took good care of her.”
“Returning the favour of a long time ago.”
“Yeah, she told me about that. Only I understand it wasn’t alcohol that did you in.”
“No, it’s his eating habits.” Hannah reached over and ruffled Peter’s hair from behind. “Seriously, you should see what he puts in mouth!” Both men chuckled at that. Hannah realised who she was talking to. “Oh, grow up, the pair of you. You know what I meant.”
Peter draped an arm around her shoulders. “Isn’t she cute when she’s flustered?”
“I could tell some tales. So, what are you up to this evening?”
“Apparently not shagging my boyfriend.”
Ben raised his eyebrows. “We have a boyfriend?”
Hannah curled into Peter and smiled. “Yeah.”
“Good. You need that whether you think so or not. As for you, remember what I said the other night.”
Peter nodded. “I will and I’ll do my damnedest to do right by her.”
“And I really believe that. Don’t let her mess it up.” At Hannah’s huff, Ben turned to her. “That’s right. You fought against this for so long. It has to be pretty special for you to have given in. I’ve given him ‘The Talk' and think you could make a good go of it.”
“Yes Dad.”
Things wound down from there. As they cleaned up, Ben eyed Peter’s jumper hanging from Hannah’s telly and mouthed a sincere apology to her. She rolled her eyes and nodded. After she ushered him out, she wrapped her arms around Peter’s waist.
“I’m sorry. I need to start getting ready.”
He kissed the top of her head. “It’s okay. We’ll celebrate this event when we have more time. A whole evening in fact.”
“Sounds good. Oh, but next week I promised evenings, well dinner at least, to the family. Holiday and all. ”
“Hmm?”
“Hanukah. I’ve ignored their pleas for the past couple of years but guilt trips eventually get somewhere and I’m trying to grow as a person too.”
“Ah. That’s okay as long as I get dessert a couple of those nights.”
“Absolutely.” She tilted her head up for a kiss.
It was once of those mornings. Hannah had hardly had a taxing night. Her client asked her to strip to her under things and pose on the bed. All the while he walked about saying things like, “Lovely. Beautiful. Put your hand there. Gorgeous.” It was fun for the first ten minutes but was really old after thirty. And that was all. No sex of any kind. The modelling was all he wanted. Every one had their quirks. When the hour was up he handed her her clothes and a tip that was far more obscene than anything she’d actually done. He kissed her cheek and said, “Thank you so much. I had a wonderful time. I’ll be in touch.” The rest of her night was uneventful and she got a full night’s sleep.
After all that though, she just couldn’t get motivated. She’d been shuffling about her flat in flannel pyjama bottoms and Peter’s shirt. Currently she was sat in front of the telly sipping on coffee. The buzzer went.
“Yes?”
“Hannah Baxter? Delivery.” She wasn’t expecting anything but people didn’t usually announce gifts. She buzzed him in and signed for the box. She tore into it as soon as she sat. It held a candle with a bow on it. She sniffed. It was scented. Light. Nice. Digging further in, she found a card.
Happy Hanukah Hannah. And yes, I tried saying it five times fast.
~Peter
She called him right away.
“Why hello there, Miss Baxter. How are we doing this fine day?”
“I got a package.”
“Did you now?”
“What’s this all about?”
“It’s customary to get gifts this holy time, so I’m told. Eight of them to be exact. Research tells me a common first day gift is a menorah. You don’t strike me as the type. So, I thought: candle.”
She bit her lip to keep from grinning too hard. “I’m getting seven more then? Like what?”
“You’ll just have to wait and see. Do you like it?”
“Yeah, I do. Thank you, Peter. Can you come by tonight for a proper show of gratitude?’
“I’m afraid not. My partner and I have committed to taking out and corrupting your young Benjamin.”
“You’re not.” She almost dropped the candle.
“Well, Monty is. I’m mainly along to keep the illegal activities to a minimum. Do you know how much it would cost of a quick getaway out of the country? Never mind. I’ll look it up myself.”
“Peter.” Her voice held a clear warning.
“Hannah, I’m joking. And Ben’s a big boy. He can take care of himself. I promise to have him home before curfew.”
“I’d tell you to behave but it wouldn’t do any good.”
“You wouldn’t like us as much if we did.”
“True. Thank you again. You sure you don’t want to tell me what to expect?”
“Goodbye Hannah.”
The next day, another package. She tore into it. Inside was a CD with “Play Me” written in Peter’s scrawl on it. Excited, to hear, she popped it into her player. Amy Winehouse belted about how she was no good. Hannah smiled. Peter remembered that she liked the singer, problems and all. As the mix went on, she got more confused. The Ramones had history for them but Billy Joel? Manfred Mann? Followed by the Beastie Boys? There seemed to be no rhyme or reason to the song choices. By the time Simon and Garfunkel’s ode to herbs faded into Mark Ronson’s cover tune, she was baffled. She’d had enough by the time Joss Stone gave way to Pete Burns.
Before he could even say hello, she demanded, “Explain.”
“Good morning to you too.”
“I don’t get it. I mean, it’s good music, mostly, but is there a theme I’m not catching?”
“Yes, there is. Think about it. You’re clever. I’ll give you a hint, it’s not the songs.”
“They’ve all been tabloid fodder?”
“No. Well, yes, but that’s not it. Come on, Hannah.” She could just imagine him leaning back in his chair, smirk on his face, phone cradled between his ear and shoulder so he could cross his arms, hair askew, glasses on, looking absolutely shaggable and smug. She wasn’t sure if she was randy or annoyed.
“Just tell me.”
“All the artists are Jewish.”
“Oh.”
“Oh? That’s all I get? I put effort into that! There are quality compositions there.”
Hannah shook her head to clear it. No one had ever put so much thought in something that about her. “Actually, you stunned me into silence. But hold on, you slipped up.”
“How?”
“The Clash. I mean, I know you’re a fan but…”
“Mick Jones. On his mother’s side.”
“Huh. You really thought about this.” The last song came on. “Oh!”
“Now what?”
“The theme from The Princess Bride! That’s my favourite.”
“Book or movie?”
“Yes.”
“Really?”
“How about you show up here, say around half-nine/ten o’clock and I give you a proper thank you?”
“How could I turn that down?”
Day Three brought an assortment of Cadbury products. Peter said chocolate was traditional and Hannah completely agreed, though pointed out she was more of a Yorkie girl (he wasn’t surprised). Day Four, a top. “It’s dreidel-esque,” he offered. Day Five, socks. Plain black socks.
“Socks?”
“Yes. Doesn’t everyone get socks for Hanukah?”
“Suppose so.”
Peter spent the night that night due to not having to go into work until later that day for a later stakeout. He mumbled as Hannah climbed out of bed, “Where are you going?”
“Running with Ben. You could come with us.”
He sat up. “Never let it be said you don’t have a sense of humour.”
“Worth a shot.”
He smirked. “You know, it’s cold out there. It’s warm here. And I think we can make it warmer.” He patted the empty spot beside him.
She laughed as she tied the laces of her trainers. “Are you ever not ready for sex?”
“I’m Scottish,” he offered in explanation.
When Hannah returned, she ran into the delivery guy at the door. She waited until she was back in her flat to open it. Peter wrapped his arms around her from behind.
“Mmm. You’re all sweaty. Oh! It came. Go on then.”
“Doughnuts!’ He raised an eyebrow at her excitement. “Mum’s been shoving fried foods down our throats this while time and she’s getting creative. But this...this is what I need. The simplicity of fried sweet dough.” She took a bit. “Mmmm.”
“If I’d known that’s all it took...” she smacked his arm and pushed the box toward him. He had polished off two doughnuts and was halfway through the third when coffee was set before him.
“Hey! This is my present!”
“But isn’t sharing so much more fulfilling?”
Hannah snorted. “Tell that to my sister. When we were little, she firmly believed since she was older, she was in charge. I think she still does but will move on to convincing my nephew of this.” They ate for a bit. “Peter, this has meant a lot to me. It’s just so thoughtful. Thank you.”
When he finished chewing, he kissed her cheek. “You’re welcome and sounds to me that I’m quite a catch. Someone should snatch me up.”
“I thought I had. Well, there’s only one thing for it then, I’ll have to brand you. I know someone who could help with that.”
“I have no doubt you do.”
The next morning, into the afternoon, Hannah waited for Terry the Delivery Boy but he never showed. She had two out calls before and after dinner and she returned disappointed to find her doorstep empty. She bit her lip and was going to call but didn’t want Peter to think her needy. He showed up right as she was ready to hit “Send.”
“The last two get personal delivery.” He announced as his hello.
“Aw, no more Terry? I’m going to miss him.”
“Are you?” He quirked an eyebrow.
“He’s gay. But he was nice. Gave him advice on how to pick up men. But, present! Gimme.”
Peter raised the wrapped box above his head. “I don’t know if I want to now. I’m feeling under appreciated.”
She pouted. “Please?” He still looked sceptical. She batted her eyes at him.
Peter groaned. “I’m ashamed how easily I cave. Let’s go through.” Hannah clapped in pleasure and led him to the sofa. “Here we are then.” He handed the box over.
Hannah ripped into it. Her smile weakened a bit when she saw what as inside. “It’s toothbrushes. It’s your toothbrush and mine.”
“Actually they are new versions of ours. I was thinking that, maybe I could leave mine here and takes yours back to my flat.”
Hannah set down the box. “That’s kind of a big step.” Her flight response was gearing up.
Peter took her hands in his. “I know but, well, every time we end up at one another’s places, we spend the night. I don’t like having to leave you in the morning to go back to mine and change or having to wait to get to you because I have to go pack a bag. Now, I’m not suggesting we move in together. Neither of us is ready for that. I’m just saying, you have room for some socks and knickers at mine. If you want.”
She looked at their hands, then back up at him. His face was so earnest and open. Why did she have to make things so difficult? “Peter, I don’t…”
“I have along history of running headlong into things. Jumping before I think. But this time, I’ve thought this through and it makes sense. Hannah, I want this to work more than anything. If that means this was a bad idea, so be it. If nothing else, you can force me to brush after eating one of my many culinary adventures you never want to share with me.”
Hannah traced her thumbs over his. “Let’s start with the toothbrushes and see what happens.”
He beamed at her. “That’s all I ask.” He leaned in to kiss her.
The next morning, after a brief ceremony for the placement of his teeth cleaning device, Peter cobbled together breakfast from the little Hannah had in her in her kitchen. She watched him over her coffee cup, waiting. She couldn’t handle it anymore, “Well, where is it?”
Peter swallowed his bite of toast. “Where’s what?”
“The last present.”
“Oh, you want that do you?” He grinned at her whimper. “In my coat pocket.”
She was off like a shot and found the package. The gift wrap didn’t stand a chance. “Oooo!”
“I thought you’d like it.” He rubbed her arms as she flipped through the pages of Tête-à-tête: The Lives and Loves of Simone De Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre. “I figured you could always know more about her.”
She turned and kissed his cheek. “It’s perfect. They all were. Thank you.”
“So, would you be interested in a perfect Christmas gift?”
“Peter, I’m always interested in presents. But about that, do you have plans for that day? My family doesn’t really do anything. Well, nothing really. So, do you want to…?”
“I can’t.”
“I understand. It’s fine. It’s silly.”
“No, it’s not that. I’m working. Giving the guys who have kids the day off. However, my Boxing Day is completely free.”
“I’ll pencil you in then.” She thought for a moment. “Just, please don’t ask me to dress up like a naughty elf or something. I’ll be doing that enough.”
“Didn’t even realise it was an option.”
When the 26th came, Peter arrived with breakfast and another gift. Hannah was providing lunch and dinner. Well, lunch was waiting to be warmed and dinner would be delivered.
“I’m surprised you aren’t out at the shops.”
“I hate battling the crowds. As I tend to have days free, I go then.”
“Fair enough.”
They agreed to wait until after lunch for the traditions and settled in to watch the movies playing on the telly until then. When that time came, they ate. Hannah had bought a pre-packaged deal from an upscale grocer and was very proud when she didn’t muck up the heating process. They then did the cracker thing and while wearing their paper crowns, exchanged gifts.
Peter opened his and grinned. “Tickets to Phantom.”
“Well, you said you’d never been to a West End show. If you’re going to start, go with a classic.”
“Good call.” He tapped the tickets against his lips. “Now, who to take me with me… Ow!” Hannah grinned as she threatened to smack him again. “Oh, fine, I guess I’ll with my extremely beautiful girlfriend who gave me the tickets to begin with, who I suppose wants her present now.” He handed it to her. “Now, I know you most likely have one already, but this is…”
“A first edition! Where did you find a first edition of The Princess Bride?!”
“There’s a used book store in my neighbourhood. The owner owed me a favour and helped track it down. Like it?”
“I love it!” She leaned into kiss him, which lasted longer than intended, though neither complained. They watched the movie later, during which Hannah pronounced, “Peter, there are two types of people in this world: those who love this movie and those who haven’t seen it.”
“What about the rare third type who don’t like it?”
“Oh, they don’t exist. Like fairies and leprechauns. It’s scientific fact.” She nodded with finality on the subject.
By the end of the night they were stuffed full of turkey and sweets and what started as an excuse to curl together for warmth turned into post-orgasmic bliss. Hannah scooted her bottom against Peter’s hips as he rubbed her arm. She was almost asleep when he spoke. “So, what are you doing New Year’s Eve?”
“I have a regular. He’s taking me to some posh ‘do at a hotel.”
“Oh. I was hoping that we…never mind.”
She turned to face him. “We still could. Not the whole night but you’re who I want to kiss at midnight.”
“How would that work then?”
“He’s a lush and will be unconscious by eleven. I’ll get you on the guest list and there you have it.”
“I really don’t fancy seeing another man paw you.”
“You won’t. He’s a nice guy. Sleepy drunk. The most he’ll do in public is put his arm around my waist and kiss my cheek.”
“But won’t he be expecting you to do your job at some point?”
“Every party he’s taken me to, he’s passed out for most of the night. We have a quickie in the morning; he apologises and gives me a big tip for the inconvenience.”
“That’s quite a racket you you’ve got going there. I should know.”
“What do you say?”
“Let’s try it.”
She didn’t get away at 11:00. It was 11:15. She found him in the crowd and took him outside. It was cool but not as cold as it could have been due to the body heat filtering out.
“So, how’s the punter?”
“Safely tucked away over there.” Hannah pointed to the middle-aged chap, clearly unconscious but with a smile on his face that Peter had been studying all night. His party hat was at an angle and he was still holding his tumbler. None of the guests gave him a second glance.
“And you’re sure he won’t be looking for you.”
“Yep and if he does, who’s going to think it odd for people to be disappearing tonight? I’ll check back in a while. Until then, dance with me.”
They swayed to the music as more and more people joined them outdoors as it got closer to midnight. They found themselves with champagne flutes as the countdown began. When the clock struck, a cheer went up with the fireworks in the sky.
“Happy New Year, Hannah.”
“Happy New Year, Peter.” Another cheer went up as they kissed. When they pulled back to the drunken singing of Auld Lang Syne she whispered to him. “I want you.”
“What?”
“I want you to be the first person I’m with this year.”
“Not that I don’t want to, but how’s that going to work?”
“I have a room key to a currently unused room. I’m not sure if you know this or not, but hotel rooms commonly come with beds. Beds are handy when it comes to sex.”
“But what if he comes looking for you?”
“Do you want to shag me or not? I have the only key, if he knocks, we’ll worry about it.”
“All right. You know it would be much easier to turn you down if you weren’t wearing that dress.”
“Why do you think I wore it?” She winked at him. After they made sure her charge was still out, they entered the lift and she casually mentioned, “And I’m not wearing anything underneath.” She giggled at his groan. She turned and fingered his lapels. “You wore your suit.”
He followed her down a hallway. “Well, you said it was posh and I don’t exactly have much need for a tuxedo.”
“No, I prefer this.” She turned to open the door.
“Why’s that?”
“Because, then I can do this!” She grabbed his tie and yanked him into the room. She didn’t let go until their lips met. As their tongues battled for dominance, Peter unzipped her dress. Hannah let it pool to the floor and kicked off her shoes. This left her in just stockings. She stepped back and put her hands on her hips. “You’re wearing entirely too much.”
She grabbed him by the tie once again and pulled him to the bed and then pushed him down. As she straddled his lap and worked on his buttons, Peter said, “My, we’re being domineering this evening.”
“Don’t hear you complaining.”
“And you won’t.” He pulled her to him in a kiss, dragging his hands over her back.
Through the rest of the night, into morning, as Peter was under her, over her, beside her, behind her, Hannah mused there was nowhere else or no one else she’d want to be or be with.
He made her want all the things she swore she’d never want. And it didn’t bother her. She was still a long ways off from having or even wanting what her sister had. However, she was in a relationship. A real grown-up relationship and it made her happy. Before she fell asleep in his arms, it occurred to her she very possibly was falling in love.
When they woke, clothes were thrown on and quick goodbyes made. Hannah finished her Belle business, shaking her head at the tip. She almost felt bad for taking the client’s money. Almost.
She was pleasantly surprised to find Peter sitting in front of her door; clothes changed and bag in hand. She smiled and helped him up. “Not that I’m not glad but how’d you get in and why?’
“Neighbour and for you. Hogmanay tradition. First-footing. You must have a tall, dark-haired, handsome man be the first person through your door in the New Year, with the traditional gifts: shortbread, whisky, fruit cake. Otherwise it’s bad luck. I’m only doing this for your own good.”
“Well, if it’s for my own good.” She unlocked the door and followed him in.
“Thank you for a very memorably Hogmanay. One of the best on record.”
“Not the best?”
“No. When I was fifteen Elsie McConnel took me into the cloak room and let me touch her breasts.”
“I let you do a little bit more than that!”
“Ah, but my hormonal smaller self thought that was the be all and end all. I’m much more sensible now.”
She grabbed one of his hands and put it to her chest. “How about now?”
He squeezed. “It’s looking up. Oh! You know what would be fun? Waking up Monty from whatever bottle or bottle blonde he found himself in.”
“You’re very cruel. Let’s do it!”
After being called a few colourful names by Peter’s partner, they had a light lunch. Hannah then called Ben and then her parents to wish them a Happy New Year. Her parents extended and she accepted an invitation to Sunday dinner.
“And Hannah, when are we going to meet this young man of yours?”
“Eventually.”
“You can’t keep him from us forever!”
After she said goodbye Hannah muttered to herself, “But I can try.” She found Peter thumbing through one of her books and absentmindedly pushing his glasses back up his nose. When he realised she was there, he looked up and smiled. “So Miss Baxter, how has the New Year been treating you?”
She took the book from this hand and climbed into his lap. “Shaping up pretty well so far.”
A/N 2: If you'd like your own copy of Hannah's Hanukah Mix, you can download it here. Please let me know if you're taking it (and if the link expired and I need to re-upload).
A Blackpool/Secret Diary of a Call Girl crossover with just a hint of Keen Eddie
Rating: M
Paring: Peter Carlisle/Hannah Baxter
Spoilers: All of Blackpool and S1 of Secret Diary of a Call Girl
Summary: It's a simple arrangement. Right?
Previous chapters can be found here.
Chapter Summary: Hannah calls Peter on his slip last time and the December holidays are celebrated in their own unique fashion.
AN:
swankkat and kalleah made this whole thing better (except for the socks, I'm just indulging them on that bit). And the first book is, of course, real. I think we all know the second one is as well.Peter knocked on Hannah’s door and smiled brightly when she opened it. It quickly disappeared when he saw her serious expression. She motioned him in and they sat on the sofa by the kitchen. Before he could say anything, she spoke.
“You called me your girlfriend.”
Whatever he was expecting, it wasn’t that. “I suppose I did.” He played it cool but on the inside he was berating himself. He’d rushed in again. It’s what caused Natalie to end almost before it began. “Is that a problem?”
“I don’t know. It’s been a long time since I’ve been a proper girlfriend and it’s the first time since I’ve done this job. It’s just something we hadn’t discussed.”
He took her hand. “Well, let’s see. We spend a lot of our off-time together. We are dating. We kiss. We’re having frankly amazing sex quite often. I don’t want to do any of these things with anyone else. And I just plain like you. What about you?”
Hannah took her hand back, stood and started pacing. “Yeah, but I’m a rubbish girlfriend! Ask any of my exes! I’ll call Ben right now.”
“Well, why is that?”
“I’ve cheated on all of them.”
“I know you sleep with other men as a job. While it’s not my first choice of occupation for you, I’m not going to ask you to quit on my account. That would be very hypocritical on my part. So, that takes care of that, unless you’re planning to run away with one of them, I’m good. Why did you cheat?”
“Because I got bored.”
Peter grabbed Hannah by her waist and pulled her into his lap. “I’ll just have to keep things interesting. Or maybe you didn’t want it to work.”
She fingered the cuff of his jumper. “Maybe a bit. What would they want with me? I’d just break their heart.”
“Maybe you just beat them to the punch. Defence mechanism before they could do it to you. You’d hardly be the first.”
“I think you may be on to something. And that sounds like the voice of experience talking.” He nodded. “So why risk it?”
“Don’t you realise you’re worth the effort?”
“That’s the thing. I’m not.”
He pulled her chin to look at him. “Yes. To me you are.” He looked away and rubbed her arms. “Honestly, on paper neither of us is much of a catch.”
“Thanks.”
“You’re welcome. But the thing is I keep waiting for you to see through me and run away. Do you know I’ve only told one other person what happened in Blackpool? I told you that day in the coffee shop because part of me is always on guard and I wanted you to know what you were getting yourself into. And if you’d turned me down, I’d know it was because I was too messed up.
“Look, this whole thing could go pear-shaped tomorrow. Or it could be incredible. I think it’s worth while to find out. We could end up hating one another. Or we could make something fantastic together. There’s a good chance we’ll lie and hurt out of spite. There’s a better chance we’ll spend hours in bed because we can’t get enough of each other. But we have to try.”
“You certainly are honest about the whole picture, aren’t you?”
“That’s my problem. I’m a cynical bastard but a die-hard romantic. Yeah, I should have talked to you about it. But Hannah, I’ve been calling you my girl in my mind since our day playing tourist. I don’t want to pressure you into something you’re not ready for. I’ve done that before and I’m trying to learn from my mistakes. I’m growing as a person.”
The silence seemed to stretch forever. Peter rested a hand on her leg. Hannah picked at his sleeve as she said, “I could break your heart.”
“And I could break yours.” She started to close up again. “Hannah, say something.”
“I say I guess I have a boyfriend.” She turned and smiled at him.
“Good.” They sealed it with a kiss. That led to several. That led to them lying down and Peter’s jumper thrown somewhere across the room.
Hannah’s hands stopped at his belt buckle. “Do you have…?”
“I did but then we…”
“Oh yeah.” They smiled at the shared memory.
“You?”
“In my bag. Which is,” she pointed over her shoulder and turned to look, “not there. Meet you in the bedroom?”
“Yep.” He helped her up and they went their separate ways. Peter started to undress in order to expedite the process when Hannah joined him again. He had slipped out of his shoes and socks, taken off his shirt and vest, and unbuckled his belt when she entered brandishing a box.
“Just in case the stash in here was running low. Now, where were we?” Before he could answer, she shoved him on to the bed and straddled his hips. Together they removed her jumper and he ran his hands over the silk of her camisole as they resumed kissing.
Hannah reached down and opened Peter’s trousers and then moved to do the same with her jeans when Peter’s mobile went off.
“Bloody hell! Who the fu- WHAT?!”
Monty’s far too chipper voice said, “Peter, my friend, buy me your drink!”
“I can’t. I’m at Hannah’s.”
“So, drinks at Hannah’s?”
“Monty, if I ever interrupted you doing what I’m attempting to do right now, you wouldn’t talk to me for a week. I. AM. AT. HANNAH’S.”
“Oh. OH! Sorry. I’m so sorry. Give her my best. And do that thing I told you about!” Peter shut the phone.
“Wanker. I may harm him some day.” He looked up to see Hannah biting the tip of her index finger and smiling at him. “Was I saying something?”
“Nothing important.” She squealed as he flipped her over. While he was pulling down her jeans, she was opening the box and pulling out a packet.
And then the doorbell went.
Peter mumbled against Hannah’s neck. “I thought you didn’t have anyone until much later.”
“I don’t and it’s an out call. Get up. I’ll see who it is.” She got up and pulled her jumper over her head.
She was about to head out when he stopped her, “Uh, Hannah, you might want to…” he pointed to her waist.
She followed his finger. “Oh. Yeah. Thanks.” She pulled up her zip as she left the room. He pulled on his socks and was buttoning up his shirt when he heard Hannah’s overly cheery voice. “Ben! Peter, it’s Ben! And he’s brought dinner it seems.” Peter wandered into the hall and gave Ben a nod hello which was returned. “Isn’t that nice?” Hannah gave him a tight smile.
“Well, we need to eat. Take it on through.” When Ben was out of earshot, Peter leaned in, “We can hurry through and get him out the door.”
“You don’t know Ben, but it’s worth a shot.”
The three of them set the table and tucked in. Ben licked a finger clean. “So, Hannah tells me you took good care of her.”
“Returning the favour of a long time ago.”
“Yeah, she told me about that. Only I understand it wasn’t alcohol that did you in.”
“No, it’s his eating habits.” Hannah reached over and ruffled Peter’s hair from behind. “Seriously, you should see what he puts in mouth!” Both men chuckled at that. Hannah realised who she was talking to. “Oh, grow up, the pair of you. You know what I meant.”
Peter draped an arm around her shoulders. “Isn’t she cute when she’s flustered?”
“I could tell some tales. So, what are you up to this evening?”
“Apparently not shagging my boyfriend.”
Ben raised his eyebrows. “We have a boyfriend?”
Hannah curled into Peter and smiled. “Yeah.”
“Good. You need that whether you think so or not. As for you, remember what I said the other night.”
Peter nodded. “I will and I’ll do my damnedest to do right by her.”
“And I really believe that. Don’t let her mess it up.” At Hannah’s huff, Ben turned to her. “That’s right. You fought against this for so long. It has to be pretty special for you to have given in. I’ve given him ‘The Talk' and think you could make a good go of it.”
“Yes Dad.”
Things wound down from there. As they cleaned up, Ben eyed Peter’s jumper hanging from Hannah’s telly and mouthed a sincere apology to her. She rolled her eyes and nodded. After she ushered him out, she wrapped her arms around Peter’s waist.
“I’m sorry. I need to start getting ready.”
He kissed the top of her head. “It’s okay. We’ll celebrate this event when we have more time. A whole evening in fact.”
“Sounds good. Oh, but next week I promised evenings, well dinner at least, to the family. Holiday and all. ”
“Hmm?”
“Hanukah. I’ve ignored their pleas for the past couple of years but guilt trips eventually get somewhere and I’m trying to grow as a person too.”
“Ah. That’s okay as long as I get dessert a couple of those nights.”
“Absolutely.” She tilted her head up for a kiss.
It was once of those mornings. Hannah had hardly had a taxing night. Her client asked her to strip to her under things and pose on the bed. All the while he walked about saying things like, “Lovely. Beautiful. Put your hand there. Gorgeous.” It was fun for the first ten minutes but was really old after thirty. And that was all. No sex of any kind. The modelling was all he wanted. Every one had their quirks. When the hour was up he handed her her clothes and a tip that was far more obscene than anything she’d actually done. He kissed her cheek and said, “Thank you so much. I had a wonderful time. I’ll be in touch.” The rest of her night was uneventful and she got a full night’s sleep.
After all that though, she just couldn’t get motivated. She’d been shuffling about her flat in flannel pyjama bottoms and Peter’s shirt. Currently she was sat in front of the telly sipping on coffee. The buzzer went.
“Yes?”
“Hannah Baxter? Delivery.” She wasn’t expecting anything but people didn’t usually announce gifts. She buzzed him in and signed for the box. She tore into it as soon as she sat. It held a candle with a bow on it. She sniffed. It was scented. Light. Nice. Digging further in, she found a card.
Happy Hanukah Hannah. And yes, I tried saying it five times fast.
~Peter
She called him right away.
“Why hello there, Miss Baxter. How are we doing this fine day?”
“I got a package.”
“Did you now?”
“What’s this all about?”
“It’s customary to get gifts this holy time, so I’m told. Eight of them to be exact. Research tells me a common first day gift is a menorah. You don’t strike me as the type. So, I thought: candle.”
She bit her lip to keep from grinning too hard. “I’m getting seven more then? Like what?”
“You’ll just have to wait and see. Do you like it?”
“Yeah, I do. Thank you, Peter. Can you come by tonight for a proper show of gratitude?’
“I’m afraid not. My partner and I have committed to taking out and corrupting your young Benjamin.”
“You’re not.” She almost dropped the candle.
“Well, Monty is. I’m mainly along to keep the illegal activities to a minimum. Do you know how much it would cost of a quick getaway out of the country? Never mind. I’ll look it up myself.”
“Peter.” Her voice held a clear warning.
“Hannah, I’m joking. And Ben’s a big boy. He can take care of himself. I promise to have him home before curfew.”
“I’d tell you to behave but it wouldn’t do any good.”
“You wouldn’t like us as much if we did.”
“True. Thank you again. You sure you don’t want to tell me what to expect?”
“Goodbye Hannah.”
The next day, another package. She tore into it. Inside was a CD with “Play Me” written in Peter’s scrawl on it. Excited, to hear, she popped it into her player. Amy Winehouse belted about how she was no good. Hannah smiled. Peter remembered that she liked the singer, problems and all. As the mix went on, she got more confused. The Ramones had history for them but Billy Joel? Manfred Mann? Followed by the Beastie Boys? There seemed to be no rhyme or reason to the song choices. By the time Simon and Garfunkel’s ode to herbs faded into Mark Ronson’s cover tune, she was baffled. She’d had enough by the time Joss Stone gave way to Pete Burns.
Before he could even say hello, she demanded, “Explain.”
“Good morning to you too.”
“I don’t get it. I mean, it’s good music, mostly, but is there a theme I’m not catching?”
“Yes, there is. Think about it. You’re clever. I’ll give you a hint, it’s not the songs.”
“They’ve all been tabloid fodder?”
“No. Well, yes, but that’s not it. Come on, Hannah.” She could just imagine him leaning back in his chair, smirk on his face, phone cradled between his ear and shoulder so he could cross his arms, hair askew, glasses on, looking absolutely shaggable and smug. She wasn’t sure if she was randy or annoyed.
“Just tell me.”
“All the artists are Jewish.”
“Oh.”
“Oh? That’s all I get? I put effort into that! There are quality compositions there.”
Hannah shook her head to clear it. No one had ever put so much thought in something that about her. “Actually, you stunned me into silence. But hold on, you slipped up.”
“How?”
“The Clash. I mean, I know you’re a fan but…”
“Mick Jones. On his mother’s side.”
“Huh. You really thought about this.” The last song came on. “Oh!”
“Now what?”
“The theme from The Princess Bride! That’s my favourite.”
“Book or movie?”
“Yes.”
“Really?”
“How about you show up here, say around half-nine/ten o’clock and I give you a proper thank you?”
“How could I turn that down?”
Day Three brought an assortment of Cadbury products. Peter said chocolate was traditional and Hannah completely agreed, though pointed out she was more of a Yorkie girl (he wasn’t surprised). Day Four, a top. “It’s dreidel-esque,” he offered. Day Five, socks. Plain black socks.
“Socks?”
“Yes. Doesn’t everyone get socks for Hanukah?”
“Suppose so.”
Peter spent the night that night due to not having to go into work until later that day for a later stakeout. He mumbled as Hannah climbed out of bed, “Where are you going?”
“Running with Ben. You could come with us.”
He sat up. “Never let it be said you don’t have a sense of humour.”
“Worth a shot.”
He smirked. “You know, it’s cold out there. It’s warm here. And I think we can make it warmer.” He patted the empty spot beside him.
She laughed as she tied the laces of her trainers. “Are you ever not ready for sex?”
“I’m Scottish,” he offered in explanation.
When Hannah returned, she ran into the delivery guy at the door. She waited until she was back in her flat to open it. Peter wrapped his arms around her from behind.
“Mmm. You’re all sweaty. Oh! It came. Go on then.”
“Doughnuts!’ He raised an eyebrow at her excitement. “Mum’s been shoving fried foods down our throats this while time and she’s getting creative. But this...this is what I need. The simplicity of fried sweet dough.” She took a bit. “Mmmm.”
“If I’d known that’s all it took...” she smacked his arm and pushed the box toward him. He had polished off two doughnuts and was halfway through the third when coffee was set before him.
“Hey! This is my present!”
“But isn’t sharing so much more fulfilling?”
Hannah snorted. “Tell that to my sister. When we were little, she firmly believed since she was older, she was in charge. I think she still does but will move on to convincing my nephew of this.” They ate for a bit. “Peter, this has meant a lot to me. It’s just so thoughtful. Thank you.”
When he finished chewing, he kissed her cheek. “You’re welcome and sounds to me that I’m quite a catch. Someone should snatch me up.”
“I thought I had. Well, there’s only one thing for it then, I’ll have to brand you. I know someone who could help with that.”
“I have no doubt you do.”
The next morning, into the afternoon, Hannah waited for Terry the Delivery Boy but he never showed. She had two out calls before and after dinner and she returned disappointed to find her doorstep empty. She bit her lip and was going to call but didn’t want Peter to think her needy. He showed up right as she was ready to hit “Send.”
“The last two get personal delivery.” He announced as his hello.
“Aw, no more Terry? I’m going to miss him.”
“Are you?” He quirked an eyebrow.
“He’s gay. But he was nice. Gave him advice on how to pick up men. But, present! Gimme.”
Peter raised the wrapped box above his head. “I don’t know if I want to now. I’m feeling under appreciated.”
She pouted. “Please?” He still looked sceptical. She batted her eyes at him.
Peter groaned. “I’m ashamed how easily I cave. Let’s go through.” Hannah clapped in pleasure and led him to the sofa. “Here we are then.” He handed the box over.
Hannah ripped into it. Her smile weakened a bit when she saw what as inside. “It’s toothbrushes. It’s your toothbrush and mine.”
“Actually they are new versions of ours. I was thinking that, maybe I could leave mine here and takes yours back to my flat.”
Hannah set down the box. “That’s kind of a big step.” Her flight response was gearing up.
Peter took her hands in his. “I know but, well, every time we end up at one another’s places, we spend the night. I don’t like having to leave you in the morning to go back to mine and change or having to wait to get to you because I have to go pack a bag. Now, I’m not suggesting we move in together. Neither of us is ready for that. I’m just saying, you have room for some socks and knickers at mine. If you want.”
She looked at their hands, then back up at him. His face was so earnest and open. Why did she have to make things so difficult? “Peter, I don’t…”
“I have along history of running headlong into things. Jumping before I think. But this time, I’ve thought this through and it makes sense. Hannah, I want this to work more than anything. If that means this was a bad idea, so be it. If nothing else, you can force me to brush after eating one of my many culinary adventures you never want to share with me.”
Hannah traced her thumbs over his. “Let’s start with the toothbrushes and see what happens.”
He beamed at her. “That’s all I ask.” He leaned in to kiss her.
The next morning, after a brief ceremony for the placement of his teeth cleaning device, Peter cobbled together breakfast from the little Hannah had in her in her kitchen. She watched him over her coffee cup, waiting. She couldn’t handle it anymore, “Well, where is it?”
Peter swallowed his bite of toast. “Where’s what?”
“The last present.”
“Oh, you want that do you?” He grinned at her whimper. “In my coat pocket.”
She was off like a shot and found the package. The gift wrap didn’t stand a chance. “Oooo!”
“I thought you’d like it.” He rubbed her arms as she flipped through the pages of Tête-à-tête: The Lives and Loves of Simone De Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre. “I figured you could always know more about her.”
She turned and kissed his cheek. “It’s perfect. They all were. Thank you.”
“So, would you be interested in a perfect Christmas gift?”
“Peter, I’m always interested in presents. But about that, do you have plans for that day? My family doesn’t really do anything. Well, nothing really. So, do you want to…?”
“I can’t.”
“I understand. It’s fine. It’s silly.”
“No, it’s not that. I’m working. Giving the guys who have kids the day off. However, my Boxing Day is completely free.”
“I’ll pencil you in then.” She thought for a moment. “Just, please don’t ask me to dress up like a naughty elf or something. I’ll be doing that enough.”
“Didn’t even realise it was an option.”
When the 26th came, Peter arrived with breakfast and another gift. Hannah was providing lunch and dinner. Well, lunch was waiting to be warmed and dinner would be delivered.
“I’m surprised you aren’t out at the shops.”
“I hate battling the crowds. As I tend to have days free, I go then.”
“Fair enough.”
They agreed to wait until after lunch for the traditions and settled in to watch the movies playing on the telly until then. When that time came, they ate. Hannah had bought a pre-packaged deal from an upscale grocer and was very proud when she didn’t muck up the heating process. They then did the cracker thing and while wearing their paper crowns, exchanged gifts.
Peter opened his and grinned. “Tickets to Phantom.”
“Well, you said you’d never been to a West End show. If you’re going to start, go with a classic.”
“Good call.” He tapped the tickets against his lips. “Now, who to take me with me… Ow!” Hannah grinned as she threatened to smack him again. “Oh, fine, I guess I’ll with my extremely beautiful girlfriend who gave me the tickets to begin with, who I suppose wants her present now.” He handed it to her. “Now, I know you most likely have one already, but this is…”
“A first edition! Where did you find a first edition of The Princess Bride?!”
“There’s a used book store in my neighbourhood. The owner owed me a favour and helped track it down. Like it?”
“I love it!” She leaned into kiss him, which lasted longer than intended, though neither complained. They watched the movie later, during which Hannah pronounced, “Peter, there are two types of people in this world: those who love this movie and those who haven’t seen it.”
“What about the rare third type who don’t like it?”
“Oh, they don’t exist. Like fairies and leprechauns. It’s scientific fact.” She nodded with finality on the subject.
By the end of the night they were stuffed full of turkey and sweets and what started as an excuse to curl together for warmth turned into post-orgasmic bliss. Hannah scooted her bottom against Peter’s hips as he rubbed her arm. She was almost asleep when he spoke. “So, what are you doing New Year’s Eve?”
“I have a regular. He’s taking me to some posh ‘do at a hotel.”
“Oh. I was hoping that we…never mind.”
She turned to face him. “We still could. Not the whole night but you’re who I want to kiss at midnight.”
“How would that work then?”
“He’s a lush and will be unconscious by eleven. I’ll get you on the guest list and there you have it.”
“I really don’t fancy seeing another man paw you.”
“You won’t. He’s a nice guy. Sleepy drunk. The most he’ll do in public is put his arm around my waist and kiss my cheek.”
“But won’t he be expecting you to do your job at some point?”
“Every party he’s taken me to, he’s passed out for most of the night. We have a quickie in the morning; he apologises and gives me a big tip for the inconvenience.”
“That’s quite a racket you you’ve got going there. I should know.”
“What do you say?”
“Let’s try it.”
She didn’t get away at 11:00. It was 11:15. She found him in the crowd and took him outside. It was cool but not as cold as it could have been due to the body heat filtering out.
“So, how’s the punter?”
“Safely tucked away over there.” Hannah pointed to the middle-aged chap, clearly unconscious but with a smile on his face that Peter had been studying all night. His party hat was at an angle and he was still holding his tumbler. None of the guests gave him a second glance.
“And you’re sure he won’t be looking for you.”
“Yep and if he does, who’s going to think it odd for people to be disappearing tonight? I’ll check back in a while. Until then, dance with me.”
They swayed to the music as more and more people joined them outdoors as it got closer to midnight. They found themselves with champagne flutes as the countdown began. When the clock struck, a cheer went up with the fireworks in the sky.
“Happy New Year, Hannah.”
“Happy New Year, Peter.” Another cheer went up as they kissed. When they pulled back to the drunken singing of Auld Lang Syne she whispered to him. “I want you.”
“What?”
“I want you to be the first person I’m with this year.”
“Not that I don’t want to, but how’s that going to work?”
“I have a room key to a currently unused room. I’m not sure if you know this or not, but hotel rooms commonly come with beds. Beds are handy when it comes to sex.”
“But what if he comes looking for you?”
“Do you want to shag me or not? I have the only key, if he knocks, we’ll worry about it.”
“All right. You know it would be much easier to turn you down if you weren’t wearing that dress.”
“Why do you think I wore it?” She winked at him. After they made sure her charge was still out, they entered the lift and she casually mentioned, “And I’m not wearing anything underneath.” She giggled at his groan. She turned and fingered his lapels. “You wore your suit.”
He followed her down a hallway. “Well, you said it was posh and I don’t exactly have much need for a tuxedo.”
“No, I prefer this.” She turned to open the door.
“Why’s that?”
“Because, then I can do this!” She grabbed his tie and yanked him into the room. She didn’t let go until their lips met. As their tongues battled for dominance, Peter unzipped her dress. Hannah let it pool to the floor and kicked off her shoes. This left her in just stockings. She stepped back and put her hands on her hips. “You’re wearing entirely too much.”
She grabbed him by the tie once again and pulled him to the bed and then pushed him down. As she straddled his lap and worked on his buttons, Peter said, “My, we’re being domineering this evening.”
“Don’t hear you complaining.”
“And you won’t.” He pulled her to him in a kiss, dragging his hands over her back.
Through the rest of the night, into morning, as Peter was under her, over her, beside her, behind her, Hannah mused there was nowhere else or no one else she’d want to be or be with.
He made her want all the things she swore she’d never want. And it didn’t bother her. She was still a long ways off from having or even wanting what her sister had. However, she was in a relationship. A real grown-up relationship and it made her happy. Before she fell asleep in his arms, it occurred to her she very possibly was falling in love.
When they woke, clothes were thrown on and quick goodbyes made. Hannah finished her Belle business, shaking her head at the tip. She almost felt bad for taking the client’s money. Almost.
She was pleasantly surprised to find Peter sitting in front of her door; clothes changed and bag in hand. She smiled and helped him up. “Not that I’m not glad but how’d you get in and why?’
“Neighbour and for you. Hogmanay tradition. First-footing. You must have a tall, dark-haired, handsome man be the first person through your door in the New Year, with the traditional gifts: shortbread, whisky, fruit cake. Otherwise it’s bad luck. I’m only doing this for your own good.”
“Well, if it’s for my own good.” She unlocked the door and followed him in.
“Thank you for a very memorably Hogmanay. One of the best on record.”
“Not the best?”
“No. When I was fifteen Elsie McConnel took me into the cloak room and let me touch her breasts.”
“I let you do a little bit more than that!”
“Ah, but my hormonal smaller self thought that was the be all and end all. I’m much more sensible now.”
She grabbed one of his hands and put it to her chest. “How about now?”
He squeezed. “It’s looking up. Oh! You know what would be fun? Waking up Monty from whatever bottle or bottle blonde he found himself in.”
“You’re very cruel. Let’s do it!”
After being called a few colourful names by Peter’s partner, they had a light lunch. Hannah then called Ben and then her parents to wish them a Happy New Year. Her parents extended and she accepted an invitation to Sunday dinner.
“And Hannah, when are we going to meet this young man of yours?”
“Eventually.”
“You can’t keep him from us forever!”
After she said goodbye Hannah muttered to herself, “But I can try.” She found Peter thumbing through one of her books and absentmindedly pushing his glasses back up his nose. When he realised she was there, he looked up and smiled. “So Miss Baxter, how has the New Year been treating you?”
She took the book from this hand and climbed into his lap. “Shaping up pretty well so far.”
A/N 2: If you'd like your own copy of Hannah's Hanukah Mix, you can download it here. Please let me know if you're taking it (and if the link expired and I need to re-upload).
