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Alex sniffs and rubs a fist in her eye. The phone rings and jerks her out of her stupor with a jump.
"Hello?" The number comes up as the BBC. "Hiya Kingston!" Matt says cheerfully. Despite the tears coating her cheeks, Alex smiles. "Darling! It's wonderful to hear from you! How are you? How are things in sunny Cardiff?" She asks, slipping easily into their flirty banter. "Raining" Matt deadpans. "Are you ok?" He adds, a slight concern tinging his voice. "Never better darling, never better." Alex relaxed back against the sofa and puts the phone on loudspeaker, placing it on the back of the sofa. She sits in a comfortable silence for a few minutes until Matt hums. "Listen darling, do you want me to pick you up from the airport?" He asks. Alex smirks, pleased he can't see it. She loves all the endearing titles Matt has for her, ranging from a teasing 'wife' when they are on set to a gentle and reassuring 'love' when they are alone and he thinks she needs a bit of comfort or if he's worried. She's not blind. She knows he has a crush on her and she'd be lying if she said it wasn't unfounded. She likes her much younger co-star more than she is proud enough to admit. "Alex? You there, love?" Alex jumps. "Yeah still here. A lift would be wonderful darling, don't you have to work though?" She asks knowing full well what his answer will be. Matt snorts. "You're much better company than Kaz and Arthur, let alone the Moff. What time do you touchdown?" "Four, but it'll take me half an hour or so to get through customs, especially if anyone recognizes me" Alex replies, a warm bubbly feeling swelling up inside her at the prospect of seeing her best friend again. "Four o'clock sharp" Alex can practically see the smug, satisfied look on his face and smiles softly. He really is adorable and very sweet. "Are you sure you're OK darling? You sounded upset earlier." Alex is touched by his concern and decides to just tell him rather than have him worry over nothing. "I'm fine darling. I was actually watching Vincent and the Doctor. That scene at the end where you take Vincent to see his exhibition in the Museé d'Orsay, it makes me cry every time I watch it" she says, now feeling embarrassed, Matt generally has that effect on her. "Oh me too darling" Matt reassures her instantly. "You watch yourself?" Alex asks incredulously. She hears Matt snort again, he knows she hates watching herself act. "Mum made me. She loves art and all things Van Gogh" he says. Alex hums sympathetically. "Nevermind darling." She frowns, realising something. "What time is it there? It's eight o'clock here and you're, what? Five hours ahead?" she asks. "Oh, it's about midnight. I'm running lines" he explains. It is Alex's turn to snort. "Do you want me to go through them with you after I'm done in wardrobe and we've done the read-through?" She asks. "Sure, if you're not too tired. I don't want you crashing on my sofa again, you scared the shit out of me" Matt says, his tone light and teasing. Alex laughs. She had, when they were running lines for the impossible astronaut, accidentally fallen asleep on Matt's - very comfortable - sofa. She has a tendency to work until she literally falls into bed. He hadn't noticed and she had been so exhausted that she hadn't even woken up when Matt had shaken her. He had panicked fearing the worst and had accidentally tipped a glass of water over her chest and legs. This had woken her with a start and she had been extremely confused why she was soaking wet and why Matt was hugging her. Matt is laughing as well and she can hear him rustling paper. "Get some sleep darling" she says. "I'm going to bed now." Matt yawns. "Oh alright Kingston, but only for you " he teases. His voice drops a few octaves and his gentle relaxing tone is back. "Goodnight darling" he says softly. Alex can feel him quite effectively putting her to sleep and yawns herself. "Mmm. Night darling. Half four yeah?" "Half four. Give poppet a hug from me." Alex laughs softly, unwilling to end the call. "I will" she says softly, trying not to let her emotion leak into her voice, the line goes dead. Alex stands up reluctantly and changes for bed. Her phone pings with a text and she glances at it. It is from Matt. She opens it quickly, practicality drinking in his words.
"Hey darling, wonderful to talk with you - as always -,"
followed by a frankly ridiculous amount of smiley faces.
"I'll see you tomorrow. X."
Alex feels herself bubbling again and drops off easily, looking forward to seeing him again. Her phone pings again, just before she nods off. Two words. Again from Matt. "Miss you, X" plus way too many emojis. She sends a kiss and her eyes drift closed.
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Alex is up with the larks the next morning and spends way too long picking an outfit that she knows Matt will like. She tells herself that she is being silly but still puts on Matt's favourite white silk blouse and black floaty hippie skirt, pairing this with black and white converse, a black shoulder bag and her favourite hoop earrings. She sees Salome off to school, gives her a hug and an extra one from Matt and promises to call every evening. She is at the airport in good time and curls up in her seat with her script. When they touchdown, seven hours later she is well rested and fluffs her hair quickly before leaving the plane. She gets through customs with very little trouble and wanders out into the, slightly chilly, British summer. She spots Matt immediately, leaning casually against a railing and sporting a black Guns 'n Roses tee, skinny jeans and black sunglasses. It fits his distinctly hipster persona and she smiles when he spots her and waves enthusiastically. "Alex!" He says happily, sweeping her up into a full body hug and spinning her in a circle. Alex shrieks and he puts her down, still not releasing his tight grip on her. She breathes in his cosy, comforting scent and pulls back enough to press a quick kiss to his cheek. Matt smiles at her and returns her kiss with one to her forehead. "Oh I missed you darling" Alex says, tucking her face back into his shoulder. Matt rests his head on top of hers and hums happily. They eventually separate but only enough so Matt can keep an, outwardly, casual arm slung around her shoulders. Alex knows it is partly to reassure him that she is actually there and partly to comfort her, and although she isn't sure she needs the comfort it is wonderful to see and touch him again. Matt pulls her suitcase and reluctantly releases her when they reach his car. "Love the outfit, by the way" he says, eyes raking shamelessly over her black and white clad form. Alex smiles and leans over, pressing another kiss to the side of his cheek, almost on his neck and delighting in the way his cheeks pinken. They are at the set a few hours later, giggling and play fighting slash flirting. Alex tucks her arms up to her chest when Matt hugs her from behind, chin digging into her shoulder and arms clenched tightly around her. It is a possessive hold and she feels rather than hears him hum into her shoulder when she relaxes into him. "I've got to take my case up to my trailer, then go down to the wardrobe, then do the read-through, after that I'm all yours" she says. Matt laughs softly. "All mine are you?" He says, his tone dropping to low and flirty. "To practice lines darling! You're shameless flirting is going to get you into trouble at some point" Alex says. "One can only dream Kingston." Matt pulls away and wiggles his nonexistent eyebrows. Alex slaps his shoulder then tucks one small hand in his long fingered one. Matt squeezes it gently then raises it to his lips and kisses her fingers. Alex smiles.
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By the time she gets to the read-through though, her good mood has completely evaporated. She hates the costume Steven has picked out for River to change into.It's not her. She likes the one Nina gets - although the Nazi jacket is quite cool.The sight of Matt grinning at her and the fact that he has saved her a seat by his side cheers her up slightly and she greets all the cast and crew she has yet to see.She sits down finally and Matt leans over to whispers in her ear. Alex ignores the feel of his warm breath on her neck and focuses on his comforting words."Don't like the costume?" He asks, one warm hand wrapping around her cold one."That's one way of putting it. The time difference is really throwing me off and, you're right, I really don't like the costume" Alex says softly but then the rest of the crew are sitting down and she shoots him an I'l tell you later sort of look and he smiles reassuringly.The read-through goes smoothly and Alex is impressed by Nina's, River Song persona. By the time they have run through the whole script Alex is exhausted.She knows Matt has picked up on her slumped posture and lowered head and, less than half way through the script, he entwines there fingers.Alex lean against his shoulder when they are walking back to the trailers."We don't have to run lines if you don't want to darling. I can tell you're exhausted" Matt says gently.Alex yawns."Nah, it's ok, besides it's nice to have the company. I really have missed you darling" she says.Matt hugs her close and kisses the top of her head."I know darling" he says then drops his voice to a low murmur."I always know."Alex nuzzles his arm until he strokes his hand over her upper arm."I was joking earlier. I don't mind if you crash on the sofa" he whispers."Good," Alex says, then yawns."Because I think I'm going to" she adds.Matt smiles to himself and squeezes her gently. Alex focuses on the feel of his arm around her and putting one foot in front of the other without falling over.She doesn't even notice that they have reached the trailers until Matt stops to open his door.She follows him and curls up on the sofa after kicking her shoes off. Matt watches her, amused and sits down next to her when she seems settled and slowly sneaks an arm around her shoulders.Alex doesn't object, in fact, she curls up on her other side with her head pillowed on his shoulder. Matt strokes her arm with his thumb.Alex finds herself drifting off and has no mind to fight it. Matt's arm around her is warm and snug and she gives in to the call of sleep.Matt smiles when Alex begins to snore softly. If it was anyone else, he would have found it extremely annoying but, with Alex, he can't bring himself to care.He adjusts her to a more comfortable position and lets her sleep, he knows she needs it.
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When Alex wakes, a few hours later, Matt is reading his script and mouthing the words to himself. Alex lets him know she is awake by nudging his shoulder and bringing a hand up to tuck into the neckline of his shirt. Matt looks down when her delicate hand brushes his neck and smiles. "Hey there sunshine" he teases then snorts when Alex digs her sharp nails into his chest. "Ouch!" He protests, grabbing her hand and wrapping his own around it. Alex glares playfully then yawns, most adorably. Matt strokes her shoulder and brings the script down to her level so she can read it as well. Alex tries, fails and gives up, closing her eyes again. Matt blinks in surprise when her curly head comes to rest on his shoulder and the hand still encased in his goes limp. He is slightly shocked that she had stayed, figuring she would have gone back to her own trailer. This time, instead of finding something else to occupy himself, he starts to untangle her hair. He figures she won't mind and, when he has run out of hair, watches her sleeping face. She looks younger when she is asleep but he misses her beautiful smile and unique, gold/green/blue eyes. He knows she doesn't believe him when he tells her she is beautiful, so he keeps telling her. She will believe it at some point. Matt knows people think he has a crush on her but it's not true. He loves her, as in actually properly loves her. He loves everything about her, her hair, her eyes, her personality, the way her cheeks pinken when she is pleased, her daughter, the way she is so carefree with her flirting. The list could go on forever. Alex stirs again but doesn't wake. Her forehead furrows and her hand clenches. Matt strokes his thumb over her hand. Alex starts to fight weakly against him. "Alex?" Matt asks softly, hands lightly gripping her shoulders. Alex has started to mutter unintelligible words under her breath and Matt shakes her lightly. "Alex" he says again, slightly louder. Alex's eyes are moving frantically behind closed lids and she curls into a ball. Matt shakes her again. "Alex!" He says firmly. Alex jerks awake. She looks around, fear in her eyes. "Darling?" Matt whispers, hugging her tightly. Alex can feels Matt's strong arms around her, Matt's strong chest underneath her fingers, Matt's scent flooding over her, Matt's voice soothing her. Everything around her is Matt and she trusts him. She lets down her guard and cries silently into his soft shirt. Matt can feel her shaking and kisses the top of her head. "Hush now, it's OK love. I got you" he whispers into her hair. Alex has transferred herself onto his lap and she is curled up with her face buried in his collarbone. Matt soothes her softly and gives her occasional, chaste, kisses. Alex calms quickly from her momentary panic but stays curled against Matt's chest as he coaxes her to tell him what's wrong. In actual fact there isn't really anything wrong but hormones. Alex sighs. "There's nothing wrong darling, really. It's just hormones. I'm…" she sighs. "I'm menopausal so I'm on an emotional rollercoaster for a while darling" she says. Matt hugs her tighter and snuggles his face into her hair. "Thank you" he whispers. "What for darling?" Alex asks, relaxing her deathlike grip on his shirt. "For trusting me love. It means a lot." Alex tries to interrupt but Matt silences her with a finger over her lips. "Shh, darling. I know you trust me physically but mentally means a lot more." He rests his cheek on top of her head and nuzzles her hair. Alex stays quiet and snuggles up to his chest. A minute later she starts talking. "Oh, Oh, Oh, Whoa. Right, let's see, then. Ooo, it's all going on down there, isn't it? The hair. Oh, the hair. It just doesn't stop, does it? Look at that. Everything changes. Oh, but I love it. I love it. I'm all sort of mature." She hasn't got any of the inflictions on the tones so her voice is a bit flat but she knows most of her lines off by heart. Matt laughs. "Not a bad idea darling" he says. "Hello Benjamin" Alex says but in a cute sleepy voice. Matt strokes a hand over her back. "Who's Benjamin?" He asks, easily slipping into the Doctor. "The teeth. The teeth, the teeth. Oh, look at them… now I'm supposed to pin you to Hitler's desk, that should be fun. I don't like that line. There just teeth, what's all the fuss about?" She asks. Matt snorts. "It's regeneration darling. It's a lottery" he teases. "Whatever. Watch out that bow tie. Excuse me you lot. I need to weigh myself" Alex says. "Why's Moff only adding all this bounce now. I think River should have stayed a bit like this" Matt says. Alex slaps his shoulder. "Cheeky! What's the next line?" Matt glances at his script. "It's Kazza's then it's Darvill's this it's yours" he says. "Oh yeah that's right… Who's River Song?" Alex asks. "Spoilers." "Spoilers? What's spoilers? Hang on, just something I have to check." Matt snorts. "I don't know how I'm going to keep a straight face, let alone act embarrassed" he says. Alex smirks. "You're a wonderful actor darling, you'll cope just fine." "Thanks darling." Matt looks down at the script. "Oh, that's magnificent. I'm going to wear lots of jodhpurs" Alex says. "Then we switch to the Teselecta, ok, your go" Matt says. "Well, now, enough of all that. Down to business." Alex frees a hand and points it at Matt in gun form. Matt laughs "Oh, hello. I thought we were getting married?" "I told you I'm not a wedding person." Kazza… what she's programmed to" Matt says, grabbing her hand and wrapping both of his around it. "Flashback to the hello Benjamin scene then…" he starts. "You noticed" "Of course I noticed. As soon as I knew you were coming, I tidied up a bit." "I know you did" Alex says, trying and failing to hold back her giggles. "I'm threatening you with a banana where does Steven come up with this stuff?" She asks. Matt laughs. "I know you know." "Goodness, is killing you going to take all day?" Alex asks, still giggling. "Why? Are you busy?" Matt asks teasingly. "Oh, I'm not complaining" Alex says, freeing her hand. "If you were in a hurry, you could've killed me in the cornfield." "We'd only just met. I'm a psychopath. I'm not rude" Alex says pointing her 'gun' at Matt again. Matt grabs it. "Kaz… Then-" "Oh, Mummy, Mummy, pay attention. I was trained and conditioned for one purpose. I was born to kill the Doctor." "Demons Run, remember? This is what they were building. My bespoke psychopath" Matt says nuzzling the top of her head. "I'm all yours, sweetie" Matt kisses her cheek and leaves his lips resting against her cheek, murmuring his lines against her skin. "Only River Song gets to call me that" "And who's River Song?" "An old friend of mine" "Stupid name. Oh, look at that. Berlin on the eve of war. A whole world about to tear itself apart. Now that's my kind of town. Mum, Dad, don't follow me. And, yes, that is a warning." "What I dont get is why the Doctor doesn't seem too upset that River doesn't know who he is" Matt says. "Maybe, but he's met her before, baby Melody, remember? Technically he's known her for her whole life" Matt tilts his head a fraction of an inch and, very gently, nudges Alex's head with his own. Alex hums and tucks her face into his neck. "No warning for me then" Matt says. "No need, my love. The deed is done and so are you" "What have you done? River!" Alex tuts. "Oh, River, River, River. More than a friend, I think… Are they in a relationship at this point? I think they are" "Well… I always thought the Doctor came back to River after A Good Man Goes To War, but River from Day Of The Moon" Matt says, slightly shyly. Alex hugs him. "That's very sweet darling" she says. Matt looks pleased with himself. "What have you done?" "Kiss kiss" Alex says then blinks at the script. "How on earth are they going to make me jump out a window?" "Eh, green screen, probably" Alex rolls her eyes. "It was bad enough trying to fly into the TARDIS. Fun, but, well…" She trails off and Matt laughs. "You kneed me in the balls! Not the best scene we've had together darling" Matt says, squeezing her waist lightly where his hand has drifted down. Alex rolls her eyes and twists herself around to look at the script. "Darvill… Poisoned me. But I'm fine. Well, no, I'm dying, but I've got a plan… Kaz… Not dying. See? Fine" Matt says. "Jump to the Teselecta then Darvill then… Take this. The Tardis can home in on it. Now, go. Get after her… Kaz… No, no, the smoke's fine. The poison will kill me first. Now, get after River… Kaz… Ah, well, she's been brainwashed. It all makes sense to her. Plus, she is a woman. Oh, shut up. I'm dying…" Matt laughs. Then yelps when Alex slaps him. "Oi! I didn't write it!" He protests. Alex laughs as well and slides off his knee, standing up and stretching. Matt's eyes are trained on her and he blushes slightly when Alex catches him staring. She blows him a kiss then wanders into the kitchen for a glass of water. Matt follows her and leans against the doorframe, still holding the script. Alex downs her water then stands next to him and tilts her head to he side so she can read it. Matt has skipped to the next scene with them both in. "OK… Ah! Here we go… You first" he says. "This bit is just cringe" Alex says, shuddering. "No! No! Get off me!" "Sorry, did you say she killed the Doctor? The Doctor? Doctor who?" Matt says, pulling Alex into a side hug. "See, your Doctor will always protect you" he teases. Alex snorts. "You're dying and you stopped to change?" "Oh, you should always waste time when you don't have any. Time is not the boss of you. Rule four hundred and eight. Amelia Pond, judgment death machine. Why am I not surprised? Sonic cane" "You sound way too pleased with yourself… Are you serious?" "Never knowingly. Never knowingly be serious. Rule twenty seven. You might want to write these down. Oh, it's a robot. With four hundred and twenty three life signs inside. A robot worked by tiny people. Love it. But how do you all get in there, though? Bigger on the inside? No, basic miniaturisation sustained by a compression field. Ooo. Watch what you eat, it'll get you every time. Amy, if you and Rory are okay, signal me. Thanking you" Matt says then gasps. "Do I have to say all of that in one go?" He asks. Alex pats his arm sympathetically. "I don't think so" she says. "Argh! I'm so sorry. Leg went to sleep. Just had a quick left leg power nap. I forgot I had one scheduled. Actually, better sit down. I think I heard the right one yawning" Matt says, laughing. "Don't you touch her! Do not harm her in any way!" He says suddenly, hugging Alex a bit tighter. "Eleven will always look after River" he whispers into her hair. Alex hums. "Who's playing Carter?" Matt asks. "Don't know yet" "Okay then… Carter… I'm not dead" Alex yawns. "Sorry darling, I'm exhausted. Can we keep doing this after shooting tomorrow?" She asks. "Of course we can love." Matt drops the script onto the table then hugs Alex with both arms. She sighs into his chest and grips the back of his jacket. "Thanks darling" she whispers. Matt releases her all too soon and she stands on tiptoe, pressing a kiss to his cheek. "Darli- Oomph!" Matt's hugged her again, so tightly that she can barely breath. She wraps her arms around his neck almost as tight. "God I've missed you, Kingston" Matt whispers. Alex makes a noise somewhere between a sob and a squeak. Matt's hands are everywhere, in her hair, brushing her waist, hips, shoulders, back. Alex sighs into his neck then relaxes her grip slightly so Matt's holding her up. When her head slips slightly, Mattpeppers her face with tiny kisses. Alex is exhausted and Matt laughs softly when she nuzzles her face into his neck with a cute, sleepy, contented noise. "Don't fall asleep on me darling" Matt teases, lifting her carefully and directing her to wrap her legs around his waist. Alex complies, too sleepy to care and he gently carries he to her trailer. Alex has actually fallen asleep and Matt places her as carefully as possible on her bed. He tucks her in then leans down and brushes his lips over her cheek. "Sleep well Alex" he whispers.
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When Alex wakes up the next morning she is a bit confused. She sits up and looks around, recognizing her bedroom. She doesn't remember getting into bed or, for that matter, leaving Matt's. She is still dressed but Matt has taken her earrings out and makeup off. She changes quickly into casual sweats and makes her way down to the sets. She is first in make-up but Matt appears a few minutes later. He has a cheerful smile and a quick squeeze for her. "Good morning darling" Alex says jovially. "Did I fall asleep on you?" She adds in a whisper. Matt smiles softly. "Yes but don't worry. I took you back to your trailer and made sure you were comfortable" Alex kisses him lightly on the cheek. "Thanks darling" she says softly. "You ready Alex?" Steven asks half an hour later when Alex walks onto set in costume. "Ready to roll" Alex says, grinning at Matt as they take there places. "Oh, I…" Zimmerman "I think he just fainted." Arthur. "Yes, that was a faint. A perfect faint." Matt. "Mels?" Karen "Hitler." Nina "What about him?" Matt. "Lousy shot." Nina, who collapses. "Mels! Mels!" Karen. "Rory!" Matt "No, no, no, no! I've got to stop the bleeding" Arthur. "How bad is it? Rory, what can we do?" Karen. "Just keep her conscious. Stay with us, Mels." Arthur. "Hey, look at me. Just hold on." Matt. "I used to dream about you. All those stories Amy used to tell me." Nina. "What stories? Tell me what stories. Vampires in Venice. That's a belter." Matt. "When I was little, I was going to marry you." Nina. "Good idea, let's get married. You stay alive and I'll marry you, deal? Deal?" Matt. "Shouldn't you ask my parents permission?" Nina. "As soon as you're well, I'll get on the phone." Matt "Might as well do it now, since they're both right here. Penny in the air. Penny drops." Nina. "What the hell's going on?" Arthur. "Back! Back! Back! Get back!" Matt. "Last time I did this, I ended up a toddler in the middle of New York." Nina. "Okay, Doctor, explain what is happening, please." Karen. "Mels. Short for…'' Matt. "Melody." Nina. "Yeah. I named my daughter after her." Karen. "You named your daughter after your daughter." Matt. "It took me years to find you two. I'm so glad I did. And you see? It all worked out in the end, didn't it. You got to raise me after all." Nina. "You're Melody?" Karen. "But if she's Melody, that means that she's also-" Arthur. "Shut up, Dad. I'm focusing on a dress size." Nina. "Oh! Oh! Oh! Whoa! Right, let's see, then. Ooo, it's all going on down there, isn't it? The hair! Oh, the hair. It just doesn't stop, does it? Look at that. Everything changes. Oh, but I love it. I love it! I'm all sort of mature. Hello Benjamin." Alex. Matt and Karen burst out laughing. "Cut!" The director calls. Alex is giggling as well and she returns to her position. "Take Two! And… ACTION!" The director yells. They run through the scene up to the same point. "Hello, Benjamin." Alex. "Who's Benjamin?" Matt. The teeth. The teeth, the teeth! Oh, look at them!" Alex, she pins Matt to the desk and they both start laughing again. "Perfect darling" Matt teases. Alex slaps his chest. They run through the scene again. And again. The first time Karen forgets her lines, trying not to laugh at the poor guy that is playing Hitler. The second time, when Alex threatens Matt with a banana, the whole cast bursts out laughing. "Oh My God. I remember reading that in the script. I never thought it would be so funny!" Karen says. Matt and Alex are holding each other up and laughing so hard they can't breathe. "I can't breath!" Alex says, sitting down on the desk, still giggling. They take there positions, Matt and Alex sobered by the fact Karen is shooting them suspicious looks. They run through the scene perfectly. Matt desperately trying not to keep his lips fused with Alex's too long. "Only River Song gets to call me that." Matt. "And who's River Song?" Alex. "An old friend of mine." Matt, with just the tiniest smile. "Stupid name. Oh, look at that. Berlin on the eve of war. A whole world about to tear itself apart. Now that's my kind of town. Mum, Dad, don't follow me. And, yes, that is a warning." Alex. "No warning for me then?" Matt. "No need, my love. The deed is done and so are you." Alex. Matt pretends to collapse. He really is a very good actor Alex thinks, loosing track of where she is standing and almost falling backwards. She catches herself just in time and gasps, quickly jumping off the windowsill and into the room. Matt is by her side in an instant, hands racing over her arms, squeezing them lightly. "Are you OK?" He asks softly. Alex forces herself to put on a brave face and nods, taking a deep breath. "Take five everyone!" The director calls. Matt leads Alex to some chairs on the sidelines and forces her to sit down while he gets them a couple of bottles of water. He hands one to her then drags a second chair over to hers. "Blimey, Kingston, you sure know how to scare me" he says. Alex looks over at him and cracks a smile. "Gee thanks darling" she says, the slightest tremble in her voice betraying her emotions. Matt wants to hug her, really, really wants to hug her but thinks it's best if they don't push their luck. He settles for giving her hand a quick squeeze. "Dinner? My place, whatever time we get out?" He asks. Alex smiles. "Sure." She still looks a little shaken but the director calls them back onto set and they run through the scene easily, moving onto the next one, most of which only includes Matt and Catlin. Alex watches Matt play with Catlin and smiles. The two have bonded well and she laughs softly when Catlin tries to pull Matt to his feet. She can see the longing in Matt's eyes and knows he wants children. He's always loved kids, he'd loved it when Steven's boys or Salomé or Catlin were on set. Alex is called away to shoot a scene in the restaurant and, when Matt appears to do the same shoot with Karen and Arthur, in a tux. She smiles softly at him. "Ah ha, here's the Kingston" Matt teases, playfully tugging one of her curls. "Matthew! What is it with you and hair?" She mock scolds. "YOUR hair" Matt corrects pointedly. "And it's big and all over the place. How do you expect me to keep my hands off it?" He teases. Alex snorts. She can't help it. Matt brings out the best in her. "Matt! Alex! Get over here you two!" The director calls. They exchange amused glances and walk over to there places. "Action!" Alex comes in with guns blazing. "Ladies and gentleman, I don't have a thing to wear. Take off your clothes." "Cut!" One of the wardrobe department comes and leads Alex off to change. Karen and Arthur appear from outside. Alex reappears a few minutes later and Matt raises an eyebrow. She looks incredibly sexy but she's right, the costume really isn't River's style. "I see what you mean" he whispers. Alex rolls her eyes, shooting a disapproving look at Steven who ignores her. "Oh well." Matt leans in to whisper in her ear. "I think you look very sexy." Alex goes pink and slaps his shoulder. "Matthew! Your incorrigible flirting is going to get you into trouble some day!" "One can only dream, Kingston." "Places!... And… ACTION!" Several takes later… "Now, look at that. Now that's fun from every angle… I might take the age down a little, just gradually, to freak people out… Now dear, I told you not to follow me." Alex. "You killed the Doctor." Karen. "Oh yes, I know, dear. I hope you're not going to keep on about it. Oh, regeneration. It's a whole new colouring to work with." Alex. Matt smirks on the sidelines, catching Alex's eye and winking. Alex smirks. "You killed the Doctor on the orders of the movement known as the Silence and Academy of the Question. You accept and know this to be true?" Karen. "Quite honestly, I don't really remember. It was all a bit of jumble." Alex. Karen opens her mouth and Alex pretends to stagger. "No! No! Get off me!" "Sorry, did you say she killed the Doctor? The Doctor? Doctor who?" Matt. Alex raises an eyebrow. "You're dying and you stopped to change?" "Oh, you should always waste time when you don't have any. Time is not the boss of you. Rule four hundred and eight…. Amelia Pond, judgment death machine. Why am I not surprised?... Sonic cane." Matt. "Are you serious?" Alex. "Never knowingly. Never knowingly be serious. Rule twenty seven. You might want to write these down… Oh, it's a robot. With four hundred and twenty three life signs inside. A robot, worked by tiny people. Love it. But how do you all get in there, though? Bigger on the inside? No, basic miniaturisation sustained by a compression field. Ooo. Watch what you eat, it'll get you every time…. Amy, if you and Rory are okay, signal me… Thanking you." Matt, who now looks exhausted. He collapses, just barely holding himself up with the flimsy cane. "Argh! I'm so sorry. Leg went to sleep. Just had a quick left leg power nap. I forgot I had one scheduled. Actually, better sit down. I think I heard the right one yawning." Matt. Alex tries to run then comes to an abrupt halt. "Don't you touch her! Do not harm her in any way!" Matt, reaching for her. "Why would you care? She's the women who kills you." Carter. "I'm not dead." Matt, lifting his top hat and cane, letting them see his undamaged body. "You're dying." Karen. Well, at least I'm not a time travelling shape shifting robot operated by miniaturised cross people, which, I have got to admit, I didn't see coming… What do you want with her?" Matt, gesturing towards the still Alex. "She's Melody Pond." Karen "And I'm the Doctor. So what's it to you?... What? You got yourselves time travel, so you decided to punish dead people?... And then what?... I'd ask you who you think you are, but I think the answer is pretty obvious. So, who do you think I am, huh? The woman who killed the Doctor. It sounds like you've got my biography in there. I'd love peek… Yeah, well, I'll be dead in three minutes. There isn't much foreknowledge left." Matt. "Records available." Karen. "Question. I'm dying. Who wants me dead?" Matt. "The Silence." Karen. "What is the Silence? Why is it called that? What does it mean?" Matt. "The Silence is not a species. It is a religious order, or movement. Their core belief is that silence will fall when the question is asked." Karen. "What question?" Matt. "The first question. The oldest question in the universe, hidden in plain sight." Karen. "Yes, but what is the question?" Matt. ".....Unknown" Karen. "Oh. Well, fat lot of use that is, you big ginge. Call yourself a Records- argh! Argh! Kidneys are always the first to quit. I've had better, you know." Matt collapses, just about holding himself up with his hands then collapses completely. Alex screams and writhes. "Amy. Rory. Amy… Can you hear me?" Matt. "What do we do?… What do we do?" Karen. "Just stop them. She's your daughter. Just stop them." Matt. "How?" Karen. "Just do it!" Matt. Alex collapses and Matt hears her wince slightly. "Please. Now we have to save your parents. Don't run. Now, I know you're scared, but never run when you're scared. Rule seven. Please." Matt. "Doctor, help us! Doctor, please!" Karen. Matt pretends to struggle to his feet then collapse again. "Doctor! Help!" Karen. "Look at you. You still care" Alex. "Doctor, help! Doctor, help us! Please help us." Karen. "River, please." Matt. "Again? Who is this River? She's got to be a woman. Am I right?" Alex. "Help me. Save Amy and Rory. Help me." Matt. "Tell me about her. Go on." Alex. "...Just help me." Matt. ".....Cut!" Matt sits up, immediately discarding the hat and cane, and walks over to Alex who is still sitting on the chair. She is holding her ankle carefully and seems to be struggling to put weight on it. "What happened?" Matt asks softly, kneeling to check on her ankle. He carefully removes her shoe and his cool fingers wrap around her ankle. Alex hisses, biting the inside of her mouth. "Hey, relax" Matt says. "But it hurts" Alex whines. Matt stands up and takes both of her hands in his. He helps her to her foot and wraps his arm around her. Alex tries to put weight on her injured foot and winces. She limps across the set with Matt's help and he leads her into makeup. "Oh Alex. What do you do!" Lianne asks, helping Matt guide her to her seat. "Landed funny when the Teselecta dropped me" Alex says. She winces when Lianne pokes at her ankle. Matt can see the pain in her face and touches Lianne's shoulder, prompting her to leave the room. As soon as she is out of sight, Matt hugs Alex tightly, whispering soft reassuring words. "It's ok, you'll be fine darling." And other such words. Alex curls into him and sighs. "It's not too bad darling. I should be ok tomorrow." Matt smiles at his very, very close friends bravery and kisses the top of her head. "It's just me love. You don't have to hide behind a mask." Alex sighs into his shoulder. "Do you want me to tell Steven you're going home for the day?" Matt asks, unable to see her in pain. Alex frees a hand so she can look at where her watch is meant to be then scowls and looks up at the clock on the wall. It is seven thirty, the door opens at that point and Karen walks in. Matt goes to retreat from Alex but Karen shakes her head. "Nah, it's ok. I came to tell you that we've wrapped for the day. Arthur's getting takeaway if you two want to come over to mine for dinner, he'll be back in about half an hour." Matt smiles gratefully at her then has a silent conversation with Alex. "Sure. We'll be by in about twenty minutes" he says. Karen nods and vanishes. Matt kisses the top of Alex's head. "Alright love. Think you can walk?" He asks softly. Alex nods and Matt helps her up. She tentatively puts weight on it and grimaces but mannages to limp across the room with Matt's help. He leads her up to their trailers and forces her to sit down on his sofa. "Stay there" he orders. Alex smiles, raising an eyebrow and Matt rolls his eyes. "Damn you Kingston!" "Oh, I thought you were taking me out to dinner?" "Karen's." "Same thing. You're taking me, we're having dinner." Matt rolls his eyes and hugs her again. Alex really is adorable and the sweetest, kindest person he has ever met. Alex hums happily and snuggles her face into his neck. She is - unintentionally - thinking the same thing Matt is and feels unexpected emotion swelling. Matt's head comes to rest on top of hers. "Why did I agree to go to Kazza's?" He groans. Alex smiles. "You love her really." "Yeah, I do. Not as much as you though." Alex freezes and Matt kisses the top of her head. "Relax, love. We're friends" he soothes. Alex does relax and rests her head on his shoulder again. She gets up eventually, groaning when she puts weight on her ankle. Matt stands and scoops her up. Alex's ankle must really be sore because she doesn't resist and wraps her arms around his neck. "You're really hurting, aren't you?" Matt whispers. Alex whimpers slightly and Matt's heart melts at the pathetic sound. He nuzzles her hair and presses a kiss to her forehead. In the end neither of them make it to Karen's and when she comes looking for them she finds them curled up together on Alex's sofa, looking completely adorable. She smiles and snaps a few pictures before throwing a blanket over them and taking Alex's cup from her drooping fingers. Alex stirs but doesn't wake and tucks her hand into Matt's jacket. Matt's only reaction is to pull her closer and drool on her. Karen returns to her own trailer and when Arthur asks where the other two are she shows him the photos. "Do they realise how good they are for each other? When Alex isn't here Matt always seems to be checking his phone or just generally despondent" Arthur says. "I know. I'm the one who has to put up with their incorrigible flirting every day. I hope they don't kill you off again. I don't know if I'll be able to stand it" Karen says. Arthur snorts.
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Matt groans when Alex accidentally elbows him in the stomach the next morning. "Oh, sorry darling" Alex says, sitting up completely bewildered. "I think I fell asleep on you." Matt smiles and sits up as well, tucking her against his side. "I don't care" he says, gently nipping her earlobe. Alex yelps and shoves him away. "Matthew!" Alex's hands are still pressed against Matt's chest and he picks them up and allows her to crash into his chest. "Relax, Kingston. I'm not gonna hurt you darling" he soothes, hugging her tightly. Alex is still slightly wary but still snuggles up to his chest. Matt glances up at the clock and groans. "We gotta go Kingston. How's you're ankle?" Alex sits up properly and gingerly flexes her ankle. Matt is holding her hand and he helps her carefully to her feet. She is still limping slightly but nods at Matt and he smiles. He follows her down to the sets with a casual arm slung around her shoulders. Karen punches him in the arm. "You bailed on me!" She says. Matt rubs his arm. "Ouch!" He protests. "We- I-" Karen smiles and shows him the photo. Matt smiles and squeezes Alex. "What?" She asks. Karen shows her the photo as well and Alex groans. "Is there any chance you're gonna believe us if we say we're not sleeping together?" Karen smirks. "Nope!" She says gleefully, racing away before either of them can attack her. Matt smiles affectionately. "She's so clueless- what's wrong?" For Alex is biting the side of her finger and has shrugged his arm off. "Alex, darling, what's wrong? Did I say something?" Matt asks. He takes both her hands in his, even the one she is nibbling and kisses them gently. Alex looks away. "It's nothing darling. It's just… why does everyone think a man and a woman can't just be friends!" Matt hugs her close and cradles her head. "Shh. I know. C'mere love." Alex is crying slightly. Matt knows she has been treated wrong by most of the men in her life and he isn't about to let her down. His spare hand strokes slow, unbelievably comforting, circles on her back. Alex sighs and pulls away. Matt cups her cheek and places a gentle kiss on her forehead. Alex closes her eyes for a fraction of a second. "How about we prove them wrong?" Matt says. Alex looks confused. Matt thinks she looks adorable and bops her nose. "I've got a plan."
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"You're insane and I love it." Alex says. Matt smirks. "We'll discuss the finer points later, right now, we need to get to set." Alex's mind is spinning. Matt is undoubtedly the funniest, kindest, most mischievous, flirty, brilliant, idiotic, clumsy, wonderful, man alive. Matt's plan is that they prove to the world that two people can be very close and yet not be in a relationship. Specifically, them. He had just bought a new house, Alex was perfectly happy to move in with him, hell the more time she got to spend with her closest friend in the world, the better. She runs through the day in a blur. They have some difficult scenes to film busy get most of them done. They only have this set for the rest of the day and the next day, so it is non stop filming with a one AM wrap. They stumble to beds and mannage to collapse on top of Matt's bed, fully clothed and asleep before they have hit the mattress.
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Alex an Matt are curled up together looking very sweet. Alex's head is tucked under Matt's chin and his strong arms are wrapped around her waist. There legs are tangled and Alex's hands are tucked into Matt's jacket. Her lips are resting against his neck and his face is buried in her wonderful space hair. Alex groans when an unfamiliar alarm goes off. She burrows into Matt's chest and whacks the alarm clock. Matt wakes up when she stands up, pulling herself out of his arms. "Morning A-" yawn "-lex." Alex smiles then yawns as well. "God I'm exhausted." She says. Matt sits up and hugs her lightly. Alex leans against his shoulder. "We didn't really get a chance to discuss 'specifics' last night" she says. "Oh, yeah. What are you comfortable with? I mean, physical contact. Well, you know me, I'm kind of touchy - literally -" Alex laughs and headbutts his shoulder. "Darling, I'm probably the most physical person I know." She proves this by wrapping her arms around his chest and snuggling under his arm. Matt laughs softly and kisses the top of her head. "Point taken… So, you're moving in with me,we're gonna be comfortable and physical, turn up the flirting to max." Alex is giggling and she pulls away, pushing her unruly hair out of her face. "Right. You scoot back to your trailer and get changed, I'll- oh what the hell. I'll come with you, as long as you don't mind of course" Matt says, shooting her a tiny, uncertain smile. Alex sometimes forgets just how young he is. His eyes are so mature and so, so kind. She smiles slowly and stands up, holding a hand out to him. Matt takes it then cuddles her up to his side. Alex smiles.
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"What is going on with them?" Karen asks no one inparticular. Matt has just appeared, sneaked up on Alex and grabbed her around the waist and span her around in a circle. Arthur raises an eyebrow. "Well she doesn't seem to mind." Alex is giggling and she presses a quick kiss to the corner of Matt's mouth. "Well, I don't know. They haven't stopped flirting all morning but they both flirt with everyone and I caught him chatting Ellie up earlier. He doesn't seem like the sort of guy to cheat on someone, especially Alex" Arthur says. Karen scowls and stalks off looking for coffee. Matt glances up at Karen and Arthur then slings an arm around Alex's shoulders. "Think we got them confused" he says. Alex giggles and feeds him bits of her muffin. Matt nibbles her finger and sucks it gently. Alex smirks at Arthur's raised eyebrows and snuggles into Matt. Matt leads her over to he sets. They have almost finished filming in 'Berlin' only the kiss scene left. "Ready Kingston?" Matt murmurs, lips brushing the shell of her ear. Alex nods and takes her place. "And… ACTION!" "You can't die now. I know you don't die now." Karen. "Oh, Pond, you've got a schedule for everything." Matt. "But it doesn't make any sense." Karen. "Doctor, what do we do? Come on. How do we help you?" Arthur. "No. Sorry, Rory, you can't. Nobody can. Ponds, listen to me. I need to talk to your daughter." Alex approaches slowly, her eyes are big and scared. Matt hopes to God that she doesn't ever look at him like that and really mean it. "Find her. Find River Song and tell her something from me… My brace has come off" he says in a whisper. Alex bites her lip and Matt goes limp. "Well, I'm sure she knows." She says then they both start giggling. "Cut! What's so funny?" "Nothing." Alex rests her forehead on Matt's shoulder and laughs into his jacket. Matt is crying. It takes them a good few minutes to calm down. Alex's giggles are infectious and sooner he whole cast and crew are laughing as well. "I don't know why I am laughing but it feels so good" Karen says. "He said… He said his brace had come off!" Alex says. "Okay, places people." They run through the scene seven or eight times until they have enough material to work with. "Okay, one more take, Matt, try to relax into Alex a bit more." Matt nods and returns to his prone position on the steps. "Take eight, and… action!" "You can't die now. I know you don't die now." Karen. "Oh, Pond, you've got a schedule for everything." Matt. "But it doesn't make any sense." Karen. "Doctor, what do we do? Come on. How do we help you?" Arthur. "No. Sorry, Rory, you can't. Nobody can. Ponds, listen to me. I need to talk to your daughter." Alex approaches slowly, her eyes are big and scared. Matt hopes to God that she doesn't ever look at him like that and really mean it. "Find her. Find River Song and tell her something from me… I love her" he whispers. Alex pulls back, real tears clouding her eyes. "Well, I'm sure she knows… Who's River Song?" Alex. "Are you still working? Because I'm still a relative. Access files on River Song… Show me her. Show me River Song." Karen. Alex stares blankly at the wall, the digital effect people would cut and paste the two scenes together so she was looking at herself later. "What did he say? The Doctor gave you a message for River Song. What was it?... What's happening? River, what are you doing?" Karen. "Just tell me. The Doctor, is he worth it?" Alex. "Yes! Yes, mmhm, he is!" Karen. Alex hands slide around Matt's face and he blinks. "River. No. What are you doing?" Matt. "Hello, sweetie." Alex. She kisses him softly and Matt has to fight not to bring his hands to her waist. Her lips move slowly against his and Matt is so glad they have these scenes together. He adores Alex as a friend and he loves her but won't destroy there friendship for anything. "Cut!" The director yells. Matt's head thuds onto the step. He feels Alex's forehead resting on his shoulder and raises a hand to squeeze her shoulder. They sit up and Matt spots Alex's red eyes. "Hey" he says gently, pulling her into a warm hug. Alex sniffs and rubs the heel of her hand over her eyes. "I don't know why I'm so emotional." "It's probably hormones" Matt says, quoting one of his mother's favourite lines from when he was growing up. Alex laughs shakily and Matt releases her. "Up we get" he says. He stands up and helps her to her feet before snagging the Doctor's black tuxedo jacket and wrapping it around his friend who has shed her Nazi jacket and is shivering slightly. He wraps his arm around her as well and rests his cheek on the top of her head. They are both exhausted from a long week of shooting. This scene is fairly close to the end of the episode and they only have the rest of the day with this set. "Okay people! Take ten!" One of the directors calls and Matt drags Alex off the set and outside onto the grass. He sits down and Alex sits next to him, much more delicately. "How are you holding up?" She asks. "Meh. I've had better weeks. Nice you're here though" he adds, shooting her an exhausted smile. "You know, before this week I never realized how trying it is to play dead for long periods of time" he says. Alex snorts. The director calls them all back onto the set a few minutes later and Alex slips down to make up to fix her mascara. Matt shoots her a concerned look when she comes through the door and she smiles reassuringly. Matt wraps a comforting arm around her shoulders and kisses the top of her head. "Dinner tonight? My treat?" Alex smiles and nuzzles his neck. "Sure darling." Matt smiles. "Think date night" he murmurs. Alex quirks an eyebrow. "Are you sure you want to got there Matthew. Date night? You have no idea what you're getting yourself into darling." Matt smirks at her.
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"Kingston! You ready?" Matt calls, rapping on the door to her trailer. "It's not locked darling." Matt steps into the room and smiles. His Alex- when did he start thinking of her as his? - Is sitting cross-legged on the sofa applying the finishing touches to her makeup. Matt comes around behind her and gently squeezes her shoulders before kissing her lightly on the top of her head and peering over her shoulder. "You look stunning darling." He presses another kiss to her curls then bops her on the nose. "Stay still" Alex scolds as she tries to apply mascara with Matt breathing in her ear. Matt smirks and ruffles her hair before pulling back. Alex scowls when he messes he hair up but smiles when he kneels in front of her and laces her favourite converse trainers. "I would have worn heels but I didn't think my ankle would take it" she says. "I would have insisted on trainers anyway Kingston. Can't have you hurting any more ankles now, can we?" "I guess not." Alex's heart is swelling with affection for the black clad man crouching in front of her. She only now notices that he is wearing a suit, not a full three piece but black jacket over a white shirt and black trousers. "You look nice darling." Matt glances up and smiles softly. "Thank you Kingston. You ready?" Alex nods and Matt helps her up, grinning when he spots her outfit. "I mean it." He wraps an arm around her and kisses the top of her head. "You really do look beautiful darling." Alex smiles and nuzzles his shoulder. She still isn't used to Matt treating her like she's special. Ralph and Florian had always treated her as second rate. "Stop" Matt whispers. "Stop what?" Alex asks. "I can hear you criticizing yourself. Stop. You are wonderful and beautiful and it's time you see that." He hugs her gently and kisses the top of her head agaim, stroking a hand down her back and messing her hair even more. "... I'll try" Alex murmurs. "That's all I ask love." Matt releases her with one last, very gentle, kiss to her forehead. "Now, shall we?" He holds out an arm and Alex tucks her hand through it.
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When they get back, almost four hours later, Alex is properly drunk and Matt is tipsy, but not completely sloshed. Alex is leaning against him and gazing lovingly at him. Matt is highly amused by her drunken antics and supports her easily with a strong arm around her waist. He leads her to the sofa in his sitting room and drops into it, Alex curls into his side and turns on the TV. She flicks through the channels until she finds Die Hard and leaves that on. Matt leaves her for a few seconds then returns with toffee popcorn and two cans of beer. He curls back around his Alex and feeds her popcorn. "Last day of shooting tomorrow" he whispers into her ear. "When is River coming back?" "Spoilers" Alex purrs in his ear then chuckles darkly. Matt sighs and buries his face in her head, the smell of her intoxicating him more than any alcohol ever could. Alex cracks the top on one of the cans. By the time the film finishes and the credits are rolling down the screen they have cracked open Matt's whisky supply. Alex is on her third glass and rapidly loosing coherence. Matt puts the lid on when her eyes start to drift closed around sips. Alex whines but doesn't protest. She hasn't been this drunk in a while and knows she will regret it, come the morning but, even in her alcohol soaked brain, she knows Matt will be there, no matter what. "Stay" she whispers. Matt only just hears her. "You want me to stay? Here? As in sleep with you? Not sleep with you, sleep with you but, like sleep next to you?" "Mmmhmm." "Are you sure?" "Mmmhmm." "Sure. Do you want to change?" "‘M fine. Trus you." Matt swallows harshly and stands up, gingerly lifting a sleepy Alex. When he places her delicately on the bed she tried to unzip her dress but her hands are too uncooperative. Matt covers her hand with his own. He gently slides the zipper down and allows her to slip out of the slinky black, tight, low cut dress, leaving her clad in her underwear. He slides one of his soft band t-shirts over her head and helps her thread floppy arms into the right holes. She doesn't fall asleep immediately, what he had been expecting and, by the time Matt has changed into tracksuit bottoms, she is still not asleep Matt wraps his perpetually lanky frame around her small body and she snuggles into him with a contented sigh. Matt can't help thinking that this is perfect. Sleepy, not girlfriend in his arms, full belly, warm bed. Alex is by far the most snuggly person he has ever met and he presses a soft, sweet kiss to her curls. "Sleep well darling" he murmurs, just before sleep overcomes him.
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Matt wakes first the next morning and he relishes the feel of having Alex in his arms. His shoulder is stiff and his arm numb but he wouldn't change a single thing about it. When Alex doesn't stir after a few minutes, Matt slowly and regretfully, eases her out of his arms and presses a featherlight kiss to her forehead. He slips down to the kitchen and places a glass of water and two headache tablets on the table next to her then has a shower and gets dressed. He makes a pot of coffee then goes and wakes Alex up. "C'mon Kingston, time to get up." Matt runs long, gentle fingers through Alex's soft, bouncy, curls and gently tugs on one. Alex stirs and buries her face in the pillow. "Go away" she mutters. Matt easily peels her fingers off the edge of the duvet and gently but persistently helps her sit up. "Here" he says, handing her the glass of water and the headache tablets. Alex downs the water in one then curls against Matt until the painkiller kicks in. "Better?" Matt asks when she sighs softly. "Much, thanks darling." "Not a problem." Matt kisses the top of her head then strokes his thumb down her arm, just brushing the dip of her elbow and skimming the pulse point on he inside of her wrist. "We start filming at nine, it's half seven now so there's time for a shower and breakfast before we head down." "Mmm 'kay." Alex yawns still not quite awake and the feeling of Matt's thumb stroking her arm is oddly distracting. Matt smiles when she nuzzles his neck. She is adorably cute and snuggly and Matt feels his heart melting. "Kingston" he murmurs, chuckling when she jumps. "What?" Alex asks petulantly. "We need to get up." "But I don't want to." "But we have to." "I hate it when your right." Matt laughs softly and squeezes her shoulders. He kisses the top of her head then pulls her to her feet. He hugs her again and rests his cheek on the top of her head. Alex sighs into his shoulder and wraps her arms around his waist. "What happend? Last night, I mean. I think I lost track about half way through the film, where he shoots the glass" she says the first bit in a small voice, almost… scared. Matt is quick to reassure her. "You were drunk, I took you to bed - not like that - and stayed with you because you asked. Yes I slept with you, yes I helped you strip down to underwear. Nothing happened though, don't you worry your pretty little head over that." "No, jeez! I didn't think you would do that to me darling, I trust you. I just hoped I wasn't too much of a bother-" "You're doing it again. Don't downplay yourself. You could never be a bother, not even if you tried." "You keep telling me that and I'm trying to believe you but it's hard to challenge something two people you loved told you." "Oh sweetheart." Matt strokes a hand down her back and kisses the top of her head over and over again. He can feel her trembling with barely contained emotion and hates her exes even more. "You are not a bother, you are beautiful, funny, kind, sexy, your only fault is that you put too much trust into the wrong people. You come tell me if anyone treats you wrong and I will protect you." Alex smiles tearfully. "You would do that? For me?" "Alex, Alex, Alex, Alex. Haven't you worked that one out yet? I'm here for you darling, always, always here for you." "Oh Ma-att." Alex buried her face in his shoulder with a hitching sob. "Hey, shh darling, it's just me, let it out" Matt whispers. He kisses the top of her head again and strokes her back. Alex sobs for a few minutes then gently frees herself from Matt's arms. "I promise we'll talk about this later but right now I need a shower" she says. Matt smiles and squeezes her hand gently. "I'll hold you to that Kingston." "I know you will." Alex stands on tiptoe and kisses him on the cheek. Matt squeezes her gently.
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Twenty minutes later sees them on set, Alex leaning against Matt's shoulder looking so fragile that no-one interrupts them. "Alright, Matt! Alex! Places!" They only have the last scene where River is in the hospital left to film and Matt gently and teasingly tucks her into the bed before the rest of the cast and crew arrive. He leans against the window frame, not really having much to do for most of the scene. They shoot the scene and - miraculously - get it right first try. "Perfect everyone! I'll expect you all for the wrap party at Karen's later but for now, let's wrap" Steven says to cheers from all but the production team and the editors. Matt helps Alex out of the bed and wraps his arm around his friend. Alex leans into him with a sigh and he leads her off the set. "Tardis at six!" Karen yells after them. Matt waves then strokes his hand over Alex's arm. He automatically directs them towards her trailer and wraps himself around her when they curl up on the sofa. "Are you ok love? You've been quiet ever since you woke up." "Yeah, I guess. I'm just a little out of sorts." Matt shoots her a serious look. "Darling, you can tell me. That's what I'm here for. I can guarantee you, anything you tell me will not leave my lips." "I know darling and I would tell you but I don't know what's wrong myself." She sounds close to tears and Matt immediately feels bad for pushing her so hard. "I'm sorry love, I didn't mean to push you." He cradles her head, pressing it into his shoulder and pressing a soft kiss into her curls. Alex sniffles. "Hush now" Matt murmurs softly. They stay curled up for almost an hour then, eventually, Alex shifts so they can talk face to face. Matt's hands are wrapped around hers and he deposits a light kiss to her cheek. "Am I- is my idea making you uncomfortable?" He asks. Alex immediately shakes her head. "No darling, I cherish our friendship more than anything, well except Sal." She gives up on talking face to face and drops her head to his shoulder. Matt hugs her close. "So do I love, if there's something you're uncomfortable with, you will tell me, won't you?" "Oh darling, of course I will." "Good." Matt kisses the top on her head and walks his fingers down her back. Alex shivers and Matt smiles at her tiny shudder, knowing it is his effect on her. "The party's at six" he says softly. "I know." "Are you going to get changed? You're still in costume." Alex laughs softly, pushes the tweed jacket off Matt's shoulder so she can rest her cheek against his shirt. Matt feels her sigh heavily and strokes his hand over her fluffy hair. Alex hums her approval and yawns. "I suppose I should. Meet back here in, say, a few hours?" Matt pushes himself off the sofa then bends and presses a soft, sweet kiss to her forehead. Alex wraps her arms around him and he helps her stand before holding her gently against his chest. Alex smiles at his amused chuckle into her hair and gentle strokes up and down her back. Alex brings her arms around and pushes lightly against his chest until he releases her. "Okay?" Matt asks. Alex nods and Matt gives her a small smile before leaving the trailer. Alex flops ofto he sofa, a stupid happy grin on her face. She jumps up suddenly and walks into her bedroom. She wants to look her very best for Matt and she rummages through her closet until she finds River's red Louis Vuitton, she'd 'borrowed' them from the wardrobe department, plus a dress. She has a quick shower then styles her hair and applies make-up and her favourite lipstick. She gets dressed and is just fastening the shoes when Matt knocks lightly on the door then she hears it open. "Won't be a minute darling" she calls, checking her appearance in the full length mirror then instructs Matt to turn around. "Why?" Matt asks. "You'll see." Alex's voice has dropped to a low purr and Matt swallows harshly, turning his back to her bedroom door. For a few seconds he doesn't hear anything then he hears heels tapping and a pair of soft, warm arms wrap around him from behind. The first thing he sees is the nails, they are long, scarlet and glossy. Then Alex steps back and Matt turns around. His eyes widen. "Jesus Christ, are you trying to kill me?" Alex puts on River's flirty smirk and cocks a hand on her hip. She know she looks good and she knows, out of everyone, Matt will appreciate it. The man can flirt with a lamppost. She is wearing a black corset dress that Matt thinks he had seen in the wardrobe but River hasn't worn it yet. Her hair is even more curly than usual and in a fluffy halo around her head with a 'just shagged' look that Matt loves on her. Her makeup is light and beautiful up to the lipstick which is bright red, scandalous and sexy as hell. "Wow." Matt circles her, hands gently brushing her shoulders and touching her hair in awe. Alex giggles darkly and slips her hand into his. "Shall we go darling?" Matt kisses the back of her hand, his dark eyes never leaving hers. "Sure." He weaves his fingers with hers and leads her out of her trailer. Formal dress had been requested so he was wearing the Doctors white tuxedo. The party was on the Tardis set, at request from Karen who wanted to see 'What it's like to be the Ponds, River and the Doctor in the Doctor's house'. Again at request from Karen, they were going to be in character. Matt didn't care, it just meant he had an excuse to stay close to his Alex. They had discussed how 'in character' they were willing to go, Matt stressing that he wouldn't kiss her unless she was happy with it. Alex, of course, had agreed to kissing and reasonably chaste touches. Matt was delighted and had told her that under no circumstance was she to regret this evening. "At least I don't have to try and keep my hands off you" he says lightly. Alex snorts. She's looking forward to spending some time with Matt, knowing she has to go back to the States soon. A wave of longing spreads through her and she sighs softly. Matt glances down at her, well, over at her, and smiles gently, clearly reading her like a book. He respects her privacy and slides an arm around her shoulders, snuggling her up to his side. Alex smiles softly as he repairs another crack in her heart. "Thank you darling" she says softly. Matt waves her through the doors onto the set. The rest of the cast and crew are already there and Alex tucks her hand through the crook of his elbow. "Finally! Wondered how long you'd be" Karen says when she spots them. "Amy, darling. Wonderful to see you!" Alex says. Matt bounces up to Karen and hugs her enthusiastically. "Where's Rory the Roman?" He asks. Karen giggles. "Late" she replies. Matt grabs Alex's hand and drags her inside. "I know what I've always wanted to see River and Eleven do" Alex purrs in his ear, lips brushing the shell of it. "And what's that, River?" "Make out on the console." "Fuck. That's… are you sure?" "Of course sweetie." "God Alex, the picture that has created in my mind is hot." Alex giggles, teasingly brushing her lips over the corner of his mouth when she pulls away. Matt's eyes are dark and he debates whether to kiss her right there but Alex has gone to greet Arthur, affectionately greeting him as 'daddy' "What's the deal with you and my daughter?" Karen is in full Pond mode and Matt turns to face her. "Let's just say that there's a lot more kissing that we ever let you and Rory see." Karen cocks and eyebrow and Matt's eyes widen. "I…" He drags her underneath the console. "Karen, whatever I say or do tonight is as the Doctor. None of it is how me and Alex behave" he warns. Karen smirks. "Who said anything about you and Alex?" She asks innocently. Alex comes floating down the stairs. "And what are you and mummy up to under here?" Matt smiles reassuringly at her. "Just talking dear" he tells her. Alex slips her hand into his and leads him up to the main floor. Steven is standing at the top of a flight of stairs. "Tonight you are all in character. Anything you do or say is in character. Matt, Alex, I want to see River and the Doctor, same goes for you Karen and Arthur" he says. Alex smirks, brushing her lips over Matt's. This gets them a few wolf whistles but Alex retreats again. Matt's eyes have, if possible, darkened even more and he slides his arm around her waist. They move about the party, snatching a bite of food every now and again and flirting like their lives depend on it. "Remember you're behind closed doors and ignore any previous 'this is a children's show' comments" Steven says. Matt and Alex exchange looks and Matt smirks. He kisses Alex, lifting her off her feet and placing her on the console before practically attacking her mouth. The set has gone silent and Matt is very aware of the stares they are getting but he doesn't care. His tongue pushed into Alex's mouth and he tilts his head to the side. The taste and velvety texture that explodes inside his mouth when his tounge touches Alex's is enough to wrench them apart for a few shell-shocked milliseconds before Matt's lips are back on Alex's. Alex whimpers softly and Matt pulls away slowly, pressing one last featherlight kiss to her lips. "Well Doctor, you certainly haven't lost your flare" "Hmm" Slowly, the conversations around them start back up and Matt helps Alex down from the console, glancing at her sideways, worried she is going to be absolutely furious with him. When his eyes meet her's she blinks at him for a few seconds then slowly, her smile spreads over her face and she tucks herself under his arm. "Talk later" he hears her whisper. Matt smiles. Alex is radiant and anyone would think that she really is a half Time Lord on the arm of her boyfriend. Matt takes every opportunity he can to kiss Alex, seemingly unable to get enough of her taste and flirts shamelessly. His hands mostly stay on her hips or her waist but he does dip lower than is normally considered polite a few times. When the party quiets a bit and it starts to get late Matt takes Alex's hand and leads her back to the trailers. "Are you ok? That kiss was kind of intense" Matt says. "I'm fine darling." "Good." "Will you stay?" Alex's tone has switched from caring to scared in the blink of an eye. Matt is confused by her fear. "What's the matter?" He asks. "Wondered how long that would take. I get really bad nightmares. Having someone sleeping with me helps to get rid of them." Matt squeezes her tightly. "Oh sweetheart. Course I'll stay with you. All you had to do was ask." "Thank you Matt. Not many people put up with me nowerdays" Matt is seething. The idea that someone could spend any amount of time with this incredible woman and not succumb at least slightly to her gorgeous charms is insane. He hugs her close and kisses the top of her head. "Alex, I understand that you don't like asking for things but if you ever need anything from me, comfort, a shoulder to cry on, a hug or even someone to bounce ideas off, I'm here for you" Alex stops walking and wraps her arms around him, hugging him tightly. Matt strokes her hair and holds her close, shushing her her softly. "Do you trust that I won't do anything to hurt, upset or disappoint you love?" He asks. Alex nods immediately. "Of course I do Matt." Matt kisses the top of her head and scoops her into his arms. It is a mark of how close they when Alex wraps her arms around his neck and doesn't resist Matt's hold. When they reach her flat, Matt places her on the sofa and gets them both a cup of tea. Alex curls into him with a contented sigh and sips the warm liquid gratefully. She doesn't miss the way Matt's hand strokes up and down her arm, soothing her. She snuggles a bit closer and rests her head on his chest. Matt's fingers card through her hair and Alex hums softly. "Don't you think you'd better get changed before you fall asleep on me?" He asks. Alex whines and Matt smiles softly. "Up we get" he says, lifting her again. Alex tucks her face into his neck and drops her empty cup onto the sofa. Matt is strong, caring and she feels safe with him, perfectly aware that he wouldn't do anything to hurt her. She know he has a crush on her, maybe even loves her. "Matt" she says softly. "What is it Alex?" She thinks about how caring and gentle his voice is and has her answer. "Doesn't matter" she says, snuggling closer. Matt hums confirmation and places her on the bed. He repeats his motions from the night before, undressing her then redressing her sleepy form in a t-shirt. Alex whines when he releases her and he chuckles. "Patience is a virtue love." "Yeah, well so are your cuddles." "Really?" "Really darling. Come cuddle me." Matt lies down and Alex rolls over and cuddles up to his chest. She is feeling daring and slides her hands under his t-shirt, trying to push it over his head. Matt raises an eyebrow but takes the t-shirt off, leaving him clad in his boxer shorts. With a contented hum Alex rests her curly head over his heart. He smiles at her adorably cuddly nature and kisses the top of her head. "Sweet dreams Kingston." "Goodnight Matt." Alex falls asleep almost instantly and Matt mannages to keep his eyes open just long enough to pull Alex even closer.
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Matt is woken when Alex whimpers and wraps her arms around her head, covering her ears and muttering under her breath. "Alex?" Alex whimpers again, more softly but also more scared. Matt remembers what she has said about nightmares and strokes her cheek. "Alex sweetheart, you're dreaming. You need to wake up." Alex is crying, even in her sleep and Matt's heart breaks for her and he shakes her lightly. "No, please. Not Salome, please! I'll do anything!" "No, Alex love, Salome's safe. You need to wake up darling." Alex's eyes fly open and she sits up suddenly, gasping. Matt sits up as well as holds out his arms to a shaking Alex who buries herself in his chest. She seems too terrified to cry and her shaking hands grip his strong shoulders, nails scraping the soft, smooth skin on his back. "You're ok darling. I promise you're ok" Matt murmurs, holding her close. "Promise?" Alex asks. Matt nods softly. "I promise sweetheart." "Thank… you" Alex whispers then starts to cry. "Shh…" Within seconds, heavy sobs are wracking Alex's tiny frame. Matt shushes her gently and holds her head against his shoulder. "Alex, it was just a dream. Sal is safe love" Alex whimpers softly, such a vulnerable side Matt has never seen on her and it breaks his heart that she has so much worry and sadness in her life that she has such terrible dreams. "Alex, sweetheart, you have to let it go. Sal isn't a baby any more and I know Florian hurt you but he's not a part of your life any more, you have to stop letting him control you." "He scares me." "Hush now love, I'm never gonna let anything happen to you." "Oh Mat-" she breaks off with a sob. Matt holds her against his shoulder and carefully lies them down again, slotting their bodies together. Alex slowly stops crying and cuddles up to Matt's chest. Her hands stroke over the smooth muscle on his arms and she doesn't miss the way his breath hitches and his big hands that are stroking her waist clench slightly. "What time is it?" Alex asks sleepily. Matt knows instinctively what she is really asking. "Go to sleep love." Alex hums contentedly and her head drops to rest on his chest. Matt smiles at her ease around him despite the fact that they are both half naked. He feels the exact moment that Alex falls asleep, her arm across his chest goes heavy and she unconsciously snuggles her head up to his chin. He knows she is complete exhausted and risks whispering his deepest secret into her hair. "I love you."
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Alex stirs and hums. There is a warm body pressed against hers and a hand on her back. The hand is under her shirt, resting against her bare skin, but she doesn't care, recognizing Matt's touch. Matt's other hand is in her hair and he is holding her very close. She feels the hand on her back move slightly then it is slowly withdrawn and Matt hums softly. Alex treasures these moments with Matt. She didn't believe that she could ever be so close to someone and not be in a relationship with them, hell she didn't think she'd ever get the chance to be this close to anyone ever again. "Matt?" Matt hums and his hand slides back around her waist, trapping her against his bare chest. She hugs him tightly around his waist. "What is it love?" "Just checking you're awake." "Feeling a bit better this morning?" All of Alex's upset ramblings from that night come flooding back to her and she winces but also recognises the genuine concern in his voice. "Oh God. All of that was real?" "‘Fraid so darling. You didn't have any more bad dreams, did you?" "No. I slept fine. I honestly didn't think I would have even one last night." "But?" "I don't know. This thing between us. It helps. I work myself to exaustion so I can sleep without dreaming." "Oh sweetheart. If I can help in any way I will. You can rely on me." "Thank you Matt. I don't like leaning on people, but I will try. I want to be more comfortable with you-" Matt snorts. "Alex, I'm in my pants you're in one of my t-shirts, we've just slept together and now your wonderful curves are pressed up against me. I don't know how much closer we can get." Alex laughs softly, burying her head in his chest. Matt presses a kiss to the top of her head and strokes long fingers down her back. "You know, people are going to be talking after that little performance last night" he says. Alex giggles, pulling back and sitting up. Matt smiles at her then yawns. Alex kisses him on the cheek. "Thank you for staying with me darling." "That's perfectly alright sweetheart, my pleasure." Alex cocks an eyebrow and Matt snorts. "Dirty mind Kingston." "You love it really." "Yes and don't you ever doubt it." "Yes darling." Alex nudges him lightly with her knee then slides out of bed. She looks suddenly small and Matt sits up. "What's the matter love?" "You know what day tomorrow is, don't you?" "The twenty- oh…" Alex sighs and Matt stands as well, hugging her tightly. Alex curls into his embrace and Matt feels her hand on his chest slide around his middle until she is as close to him as she can possibly be. She is the perfect height for her head to fit exactly under his chin and he swirls mindless patterns onto her shoulder. "You know what. That's not until tomorrow. Let's just forget about that for today." "You have the best ideas darling." "I know, get changed and meet me in my flat in twenty minutes." Alex giggles, pulling herself out of his arms and darting into the bathroom. Matt rolls his eyes at her playfulness and wanders out of her flat and up to his after pulling on a pair of jeans he had left behind last time he was there. Karen corners him on the stairs. "Oi! Smithers! Where do you think you're going?" Matt winces. This isn't going to be easy. "Hey, Kazza, I'm going to my flat" "Ok, better question. Where have you been?" "Um… coffee? I went to get coffee" "Mmmhmm. And where is that coffee now?" "I drank it." "Why haven't you got a shirt on and why were you coming out of Alex's?" "Karen I swear it's not what you think." "Oh, isn't it. What do I think then?" "You think we're shagging." "Yep." "We're not Kaz. I swear were not shagging. Alex had a nightmare." "You've just as good as admitted it." Matt growls angrily. "I am not now nor will I ever be shagging Alex. I need her friendship more than anything." "Whatever you say Smithers." Matt leaves Karen standing, smirking on the steps.