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These are a selection of short stories I am doing for the Fluffcember Challenge. I won’t be doing everyday but I aim to get 8 done, maybe more.I will update this list once I decide what I am writing. See chapter 2 for the beginning of the challenge which starts with Day 1: Roasted Marshmallows, and subsequent chapters with everything else I write...
Day 1: Roasted Marshmallows (Complete)
Day 2: Winter Flu (WIP)
Day 3: Snowman (Complete)
Day 4: Christmas Sweater (Complete)
Day 5: Northern Lights (WIP)
Day 6: Gingerbread House (WIP)
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DAY 1: ROASTED MARSHMALLOWS
It’s 9am on a crisp and sunny Saturday afternoon in December, where Ellie and Daisy are heading over to Beth and Chloe Latimer’s for one their monthly ‘Girl’s Only’ days. This month involves some Christmas Shopping, lunch out and returning to Beth’s for a Christmas film and pizza.Alec is in charge of looking after Tom and Fred for the day which they are calling their ‘Boys Day’. With their help, Alec has informed Ellie that in her absence he will put some indoor Christmas decorations up in the Hardy-Miller household. Ellie is thrilled with this notion, but he’s under strict instructions not to even think about sourcing a tree. This will be their first Christmas together as a family after moving in together, so it should be a family decision on a day out to purchase it.Alec has promises the boys that if they help and do a good job with decorating, he will follow this up by taking them on a trip to the cinema, as well as a meal out at the new pizzeria in town.Mark Latimer decides to spend the day taking Lizzie to see Santa in Bridport followed by a trip to the pantomime, so everyone was accounted for and there would be no interruptions to the girl’s only day.Ellie is already by the front door. She pulls on her walking boots and shrugs her orange parka on over the jeans, blouse and jumper ensemble she’s wearing as she’s waiting for Daisy to come downstairs.“Daisy are you ready? We said we’d be there at nine.” Ellie calls upwards once she’s pulled her mobile from her handbag to check the exact time. “It’s now nine.”“Coming.” Daisy calls from upstairs. “One minute.”When Daisy say’s she will be one minute, she actually will be, unlike when Tom says it. His idea of one minute is always more than five.“Right, that’s us off, love.” Ellie’s voice is aimed at the kitchen for Alec’s benefit.Alec emerges from the kitchen, tea towel slung over his shoulder, shirt sleeves rolled up and walks to the door. He’s making pancakes for the boys for breakfast, which Tom and Fred were adamant their mother and Daisy were not allowed to partake in as they were on their girls day and would have their own treats.“Oh look at you, domestic goddess.” Ellie quips, smirking as Alec walks over to her. “Oh… Come here, you’ve got flour in your hair.” Ellie points out, grabbing Alec’s arm to pull his head down to her level in order for her to inspect his head and brush away the errant flour.“Hazard of the job.” Alec mutters as he scratches the back of his neck once Ellie has ceased mussing up his hair. They turn to the stairs when they hear Daisy trudge downwards. She’s wearing thick black woollen tights, a white long sleeved top with a denim dress over, and already has her brown leather ankle length boots on and handbag slung over her shoulder.Alec pulls Daisy in to a half hug and kisses the top of her forehead. “Have a lovely day, darlin’.” “No boys, so we will.” Daisy smirks, before adding, “Joking!”“Charming.” Alec theatrically scoffs.“Enjoy your boys day, dad.” Daisy says more seriously and pulls her coat from the stand in the hall, opening the door and standing outside. She doesn’t need to see the goodbye kiss between her father and Ellie that is now about to happen. “See you later.”“Right, have a nice day love.” Ellie tells Alec before placing a chaste kiss upon his lips, but not moving far away from his lips to add, “Text me if you need anything.” Before a further brief kiss follows.“The boys will be fine.” Alec murmurs as he then returns the kiss with slightly more vigour.Ellie grins against his lips, cheekily adding, “It isn’t the boys I’m worried about.” “Oi!”Releasing him, she smiles and opens the front door, calling out as an afterthought. “Love ya, you knob.” As Ellie and Daisy walk the short distance to Beth’s, they breathe in the fresh winter air. It’s positively sunny, albeit chilly, but nevertheless a lovely day considering December is here. As they walk and make general chit chat they notice several houses with Christmas decorations up inside and out. One house has gone to town and the whole garden is covered with plastic snowmen, reindeers and Santa’s that light up, along with strings of fairy lights everywhere. Signs for the North Pole and Santa’s Grotto can be made out in between the horde of plastic tat. “Bloody hell, their electric bill must cost a fortune.” Ellie chortles as they stop and admire the display. “I hope your father isn’t planning something as ridiculous.” “Nah, he won’t.” Daisy reassures as they begin to walk on. “Not so sure about Fred…”Ellie laughs, but then seriously prays that Alec will put his foot down and not let Fred turn their house into Santa’s Grotto by the time they return later! After meeting Beth and Daisy, the four women walk into town and are greeted by a sea of oversized festive decorations and lights hanging above the streets. Broadchurch Town Council have seemingly been busy over the past week since any of them were last in town. As it’s the first Saturday of the month, the regular market is being held alongside a Christmas Market. The streets are lined with market stalls, market traders shouting about their wares, and plenty of members of the public milling around snapping up bargains.“I didn’t realise this was on.” Beth states as she eyes the busy streets, nearly being taken out by someone’s Christmas Tree as a random man passes by with it slung across his shoulder.“Neither did I. Still, more opportunity to snag additional presents we weren’t expecting to buy maybe?” Ellie beams, excited by the extra market stalls. “So, it’s half nine, shall we meet you girls at Café Society at twelve thirty for lunch?”Chloe and Daisy nod and agree to meet Ellie and Beth at the quaint little coffee shop that they all love, to enjoy toasted sandwiches and hot drinks for lunch. After the goodbyes are exchanged, Daisy and Chloe head down the street.Beth and Ellie head in another direction, casually chatting about what they intended to buy when not even 100 feet up they street they pass the lingerie shop on the High Street. Ellie is too engrossed in reeling off what she is buying everyone that she fails to notice the shop.Beth stops in her tracks, grabbing Ellie’s arm, causing Ellie to pull up hard and frown. “Beth!”“Thought you might want to pop in here?” Beth giggles wicked grin and all. “I mean, you might as well make a start on buying Alec his presents, right?”Ellie looks at the shopfront. Mannequins dressed in a variety of plain bras but also lace lingerie and nightwear which leave little to the imagination. “Oh, god, Beth, seriously?” Ellie splutters as she blushes.“Well, why not? Two for the price of one. It’s a present for you both to enjoy.” Beth cackles.“Oh, Beth Latimer you are terrible. Did my sister put you up to this?”“No, way. But if she was here, you know she would be dragging you in!”“Hmm. I guess… I guess it’s not such a bad idea, actually.” Ellie back peddles, grabbing Beth’s sleeve this time . “Well, come on then. You can get something for yourself too...” Beth and Ellie arrive outside the café first, with the youngsters following behind only a minute later. Luckily they manage to secure the last remaining table before the lunchtime rush commences, ordering hot chocolates and tuna melt toasties. As they wait for the food and drinks to arrive, they all discuss how successful their Christmas shopping trips have been. Ellie is thrilled with how her morning has worked out, getting at least one present for nearly everyone she needs to buy for, and informs the girls what she has bought, obviously leaving out what she has bought Daisy and Chloe, and certainly not mentioning anything about her first purchase of the day! Daisy doesn’t need to know Ellie has splashed out on a black lace lingerie set for her fathers benefit.Excited, Ellie reveals she has purchased Alec a new tie, cuff links, and his favourite cologne, the latest PlayStation game and Mission Impossible dvd for Tom, as well as a hoody from the local skate shop. As Fred is yet to write his letter to Santa, Ellie is unsure on what to buy her youngest, but she knows Fred would definitely ask the big man for some Lego so a big box containing a castle and soldiers is acquired, along with some Minecraft pyjamas. For Daisy, some earrings and necklace, and a new scarf and glove set for her father. Olly, she decides can have cash to buy whatever it is he is into now, whilst her sister will have to settle for a voucher and the promise of Ellie taking her to lunch at some high end restaurant.Daisy doesn’t let on she has picked up a voucher for Ellie from her favourite clothes shop as well as her favourite perfume, nor does she mention she’s brought Beth some chocolates. For her father, she’s obtained the latest Harlan Coben and Lee Child books, and, as well as Ellie, she has also bought him a new tie – thankfully not the same design as Ellie’s. For Tom, she’s bought the latest Marvel dvd that’s new out and a Captain America t-shirt. For Fred she has snagged a small Lego set and Marvel colouring in book. She’s even purchased Tess a pair of earrings and her favourite lipstick.Beth doesn’t let on what she has purchased for Chloe and neither does Chloe let on what she’s brought her mother. They do both communicate what they have purchased for little Lizzie however – Peppa Pig and Paw Patrol merchandise, amongst some other treats. Beth doesn’t mention her first purchase of the day either.Once lunch is consumed, they all agree to visit the Christmas Market to see what other gifts they can find before deciding to call it a day at half four, deciding to enjoy a quick drink at The Ship for a red wine for both Beth and Ellie, and lemonades for the girls, along side two bowls of chips to share. The bar is heaving with punters, the Christmas spirit is high and it feels magical, cosy, heartwarming.“Well it’s been a productive day and thoroughly enjoyable with the best company, so cheers.” Ellie muses as she raises her glass and the four of them chink their glasses together. She takes a sip of her large red wine and feels warm and fuzzy. “Yeah it’s been great, El.” Beth agrees as she too takes a sip of wine. The girls begin chatting away and are heavily engrossed at something on Chloe’s phone causing them to giggle. It’s at that moment Ellie’s phone buzzes and she picks it up from the table in front of her and smiles to herself. There’s a message from Alec. She takes another sip of wine as she opens the message. There she finds a selfie. From Alec. It only features Alec’s forehead and the boys in the background admiring their handiwork as they stand beside a freshly decorated tree, with bright coloured fairy lights, baubles and tinsel.Hope you and Daisy are having fun? We have been busy decorating. Boys enjoyed the film and we had pizza after. Tom says there’s meant to be lots of shooting stars tonight so we are going to sit in the garden for a bit later. A x“Daisy, look at this, your dad’s taken a selfie. Badly, may I add. But… he’s taken a selfie.” Ellie laughs and hands Daisy her phone.Daisy bursts out laughing. “He’s such a dinosaur! But I guess at least he tried.” Daisy concludes as she hands Ellie back her phone.“He says that as well as decorating, they’ve been to the cinema and had pizza and are going to be star gazing later as according to Tom there’s meant to be lots of shooting stars visible.”“Yeah he’s right, El. I saw it online yesterday.” Chloe vouches.“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a shooting star.” Daisy unexpectedly reveals. She’s feeling self conscious so takes a sip of her lemonade. Frowning, Chloe cannot believe it. “Really Daize? But how could you not have? They happen a few times a year.” “I dunno.” Daisy shrugs. “ I guess living in Sandbrook with so much light pollution I never got the chance.” “Well it’s a clear night, no clouds in the sky, and we don’t have light pollution here, so maybe we’ll see something as well as the boys…” Ellie states matter of factly, then pauses for a moment deep in thought. “Beth… you go that new fire in the end of summer sale, didn’t you?”“Er, yeah, why? What are you thinking, El?” “Well, if you’re amenable, why don’t we have our own star gazing session at yours around the fire?”“Oh yes El, that sounds a fab idea.” Beth agrees. “Considering I bought it at the end of summer it didn’t have much use so what a great idea. Might as well get some use out of it.”“Why don’t you invite the boys over as well?” Chloe suddenly blurts out, and looks at Beth with a grin. “I mean, seems stupid to be sitting apart when we are all doing the same thing, right?”Beth thinks about it for all of a couple of seconds. “Text Alec, El and tell him to bring the boys over for half six.” Beth instructs, gesturing to the mobile on the table. “That gives us enough time to finish our drinks here, walk home, and get ready. Chlo, text your father and if he’s back from Bridport he can get the pit out of the shed ready.” Chloe nods, firing off a quick cryptic text to Mark, whilst Ellie begins typing back to Alec.
We’ve decided to star gaze too and test out Beth’s new fire pit to keep warm, so why don’t you join us? Bring yourselves to Beth’s for half six. Make sure you’re all wrapped up warm. E xxx
Half an hour later they all arrive back at Beth’s. Mark has placed fire pit on the patio and after placing some wood inside it is lit by Beth. As the fire begins to come to life, patio chairs are set out by Mark and Chloe, and Ellie and Daisy have made flasks of hot chocolate for everyone to enjoy. they all sit down surrounding the fire, wrapped up with winter coats, hats and scarves to keep warm and some blankets, waiting for Alec and the boys to arrive.The fire snaps and crackles, emitting warmth on this cold December night as they begin to star gaze and wait patiently for even just one shooting star to appear in the sky. The temperature is cold and crisp, but a modest 4 degrees so not entirely freezing. A couple of hours outside with warm clothing, hot drinks, surrounded by a fire would be fine. Mark forfeited his hot chocolate for two fingers of whiskey, knowing that would warm him up more than any hot drink.The sky is almost black, with not a cloud in the sky, just a half moon lighting up the sky, alongside hundreds of white twinkling stars. With the right equipment they could see hundreds more, but this was more than enough. It was picturesque sight even if it is just a dark sky with a few twinkling stars.“This is so cool.” Daisy enthuses as she’s clutching a cup of hot chocolate. “I didn’t realise there were so many stars out there. I would never have known living in Sandbrook. I just assumed what I could see up their was it, but this is… this is beautiful.”“There are perks living on the coast in a small town, regardless of what your father might have once said, Daisy.” Ellie smiles at Daisy and places her hand atop of the girl’s briefly. Daisy gives Ellie the warmest of smiles back.It’s then that Ellie’s phone buzzes. Retrieving it from her coat pocket she reads the message. “Oh, talk of the devil. It’s your father saying they are now leaving home. I’ll tell him we are sitting in the garden around the fire enjoying a hot chocolate and that might hurry the boys up.” Ellie says to Daisy as she is typing away. “God, I’ve just thought, we’ve got hot chocolate and a fire but no marshmallows to roast on the fire.”“Oh that would have been epic Ellie!” Daisy sighs.“Nevermind love. Next time we’ll be more prepared.” “Hey mum, do we have any marshmallows we can toast?” Chloe asks Beth, but unfortunately Beth is the bearer of bad news and they don’t have any inside.Less than five minutes later, the back gate can be heard opening and Fred comes bounding around the corner rather excitable, wearing his big coat, gloves, hat and scarf looking like the abdominal snowman. Alec has certainly ensured the youngster will keep warm.“Mumma!” He shouts as he flings his arms around Ellie before releasing. “Guess what we got?” “I don’t know Freddie, what have you got, my love?”“Alec got ma-marlows.” Freddie beams, so chuffed with himself. “For the fire.”It takes Ellie a second to register what the boy has said. Marlows. “Marshmallows?”“Did someone say marshmallows?” A voice is heard from behind her and she turns to see Alec standing across the garden waving a great big giant bag of marshmallows and a grin on his face. Tom stands beside him looking equally has happy.“Oh, love.” Ellie chokes out, going over to Alec and placing her hands on his cheeks and kissing him firmly. “You read my mind. Thank you! We were all craving one of these.”“Can’t have an open fire without roasting some marshmallows, can we Tom?” Alec declares as he and Tom grin at each other. “Yes, dad, nice one.” Daisy enthuses as she snatches the bag off her father and heads inside with Chloe to organise some toasting forks and the like.“Well done, Hardy, you know how to keep the women in your life sweet.” Mark laughs, raising his whiskey glass. “Get you one?”“Aye, go on Mark.” Alec nods, sitting down beside Ellie. “Good choice then?”“Like you wouldn’t believe, but that’s the reason why I love you.” Ellie places a chaste kiss on Alec’s lips before whispering. “Also, because I love you, I might just have brought us both an early Christmas present .”Grinning, Alec licks his lips.“Oh yeah? I’m guessing strictly for our eyes only?” “You’ll have to wait and see.” Ellie smirks, giving Alec one last kiss and leaving his imagination to run wild.Thankfully Beth is entertaining Fred and pouring him a mug of hot chocolate while she spots Ellie having a private moment with Alec. Returning from the kitchen, Daisy and Mark appear. Mark handing Hardy his whiskey before sitting down beside him to check in with each other.“Oh this is going to be epic guys.” Daisy says to the group, near salivating at the thought of hot, gooey, roasted marshmallows on a real fire upon her return with a tray of everything they’ll need.Helping Fred with his toasting fork and holding her own, Ellie sits by the fire with her son on her lap, Beth beside her. Fred is excited to be roasting his own marshmallow now he is older. Daisy and Chloe sit together with Tom chatting and laughing as they do the same. Mark and Alec sit back and saviour their whiskies during which they watch their children and women in their lives having fun with something as trivial as a sweet, soft, fluffy marshmallow. A few minutes pass and the marshmallows are nicely roasted, just the right amount and shade of brown on the outside to be positively gooey inside. Everyone takes their forks away from the fire, all waiting a moment for the roasted marshmallow to cool slightly in order for them to be eaten.“Be careful, Fred this is going to be hot, so we just have to wait a moment before we try, ok?” Ellie instructs Fred who cannot understand why he needs to wait and pouts, hands on hips in disgust.Tom decides to take a bite out of his immediately not caring that he is burning his mouth because he’s too desperate to enjoy the gooeyness of the hot, silky smooth mallow, that ends up spilling down his chin.“This has been the best day ever. I’m so glad I got to spend it with you all. Thank you.” Daisy beams, before taking a huge bite out of the extremely gooey roasted marshmallow. “Oh my, that’s hot, but oh my god, it’s a perfect roasted marshmallow. Thanks, dad.”Beth and Chloe tuck in as well, their moans of delight evident that the sweet treat is utterly delicious.Ellie decides to test the temperature of her own marshmallow before allowing Fred to eat his. Taking a small bite she saviours the flavour and licks her lips, looking directly at Alec and mouthing a thank you. Alec laughs and points to his chin, leaving Ellie confused. She shrugs at Alec and gives Fred his stick and sits him down on the bench beside her. When she looks up she see’s Alec bending down in front of them and he takes a glove off and reaches out to her chin, wiping away some errant marshmallow with his thumb before sucking it clean.“Hazard of the job.” She laughs, kissing him.“Mmm, marshmallow.” He grins against her lips. It’s only when he’s stands and towers over her that she realises he’s nicked her marshmallow. She watches in abhorrent disgust as he scoffs the lot. “Knob. You better roast another one.” She stands up to whisper the remaining part in his ear. “Otherwise I’m taking our Christmas present back in the morning and you’ll never get to see me wear it, or have the opportunity to take it off me...”Before he can protest, Tom shouts out and points upwards.“Hey, look, there’s a shooting star!” “There’s another one!” Daisy nearly squeals as another shooting star passes overhead. She is in awe of the sky and everything around her.“I think we might be out here all night, so who’s up for roasting another marshmallow? ” Daisy asks with a huge grin on her face.
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DAY 2: WINTER FLU
It’s Monday morning and Fred patiently waits by the front door, his coat zipped up and rucksack on his back, his impatience starting to kick in as he stands around to be taken into school. Fred, however, cannot be taken anywhere until his brother appears from upstairs. As always the case, Tom is fashionably late, which isn’t normally an issue for wee Fred. Today rather, he’s extremely eager to get to school because his class are making Christmas decorations, and he’s excited to make one to put on the tree that he helped Tom and Alec decorate at the weekend. Ellie appears in the hallway after exiting the kitchen, saying goodbye to Alec as he finished his breakfast.“Sorry, love, we’ll leave in a moment, once your brother gets down here.” Ellie tells Fred with a reassuring smile when she notices Fred begin to look cross.“Tom! Down here now!” Ellie seethes as she brusquely picks up her car keys from the sideboard followed by handbag from the coat peg slinging it over her shoulder. “We needed to leave, five minutes ago.” She yells as an afterthought.Alec who is dressed in his suit ensemble for work emerges in the hallway from the kitchen, mug of tea in one hand casually taking a sip as he brushes past Ellie to collect his mobile from the sideboard. “Tom! Come on, mate, otherwise you’ll have to ride in with me.” Alec yells up the stairs as a casual threat to the teen hoping that would speed things up. “This is futile.” Ellie fumes when even Alec’s empty threat is ignored. “I’m going up there. If he’s skiving there will be trouble, mark my words.”Noisily stomping upstairs to Tom’s bedroom, Ellie is furious. It’s way past the time they should have left the house in order to get both Fred and him to school before registration. He knew how excited Fred has been about getting to school early. Ellie is livid with Tom as she has heard him shuffling about in his room not only half an hour ago so she knows he’s up as she grabs the door handle, not bothering to knock.Tom is laying under the duvet, still clad in his bed t-shirt Ellie notices. “Tom! Why are you still in bed and why haven’t you got your uniform on!”“Mum, I don’t feel so good.” Tom mumbles croakily. “My throat is killing me and I’m freezing.”Ellie takes one glance at Tom to realise that along with not feeling good, he actually doesn’t look good either. Instinctively, she stands by his bedside and reaches out to touch his forehead with the back of her hand. He’s burning up.“Ok, I think you’ve got a temperature, Tom. When did you start to feel unwell?” She asks, concern on her face as she studies him.“I didn’t feel good last night so went to bed early.” Tom explains, pausing while he slowly sits up in bed, but coughs and emits a pained groan. “I, I woke up at six, and felt rotten.”Shaking her head in disbelief, Ellie’s eyebrows raise, her hands find her hips, looking annoyed, not annoyed at Tom for being ill, but annoyed he didn’t let her know sooner. “You should have woken me up, Tom. I could have brought you up some medicine, not to mention get Fred to school sooner.”Looking somewhat guilty, Tom mumbles a sorry before adding: “I thought I’d be ok if I just slept in a little longer.” Tom manages, another coughing fit ensues.“Somehow I don’t think so, love. I don’t think you’re fit enough for school. You’re burning up and look quite pale. I’ll call the school.” Ellie whips her mobile phone from her handbag. “Lay down, love and I’ll be back in a bit with some paracetamol.” As Tom flops back down and covers himself with the duvet, Ellie wanders back to the landing to call Tom’s school. Before she makes a call, Alec is immediately put in the picture.“Alec, love. Can you take Fred to school on your way in? Tom’s got a dose of winter flu.”“Oh no. Is he ok?” Alec asks, as he re-emerges from the kitchen and calls out to Ellie.“He’s not great so I need to get him settled and call my sister to keep an eye on him. I’ll see you in the office as soon as I can.”“No worries. I’ll see you at the station.” He replies, before adding, “Rest up Tom, text if you need anything bringing home later.”There is no reply from Tom, instead he hears Ellie on the phone to the school, explaining Tom’s absence.Putting on his coat and picking up his car keys from the sideboard, Alec opens the front door.“Are you taking me to school Alec?” Fred asks inquisitively. “I am, lad, because your brother is sick.” Alec answers, ruffling the boys curls and . “Let’s get going shall we?”“Yes, finally!” Fred fists pumps the air as he hurries outside. Lucy hammers on the front door, managing to arrive at Ellie’s a little after half nine, a good ninety minutes after the initial call for help.“You took your time.” Ellie comments sarcastically after she’s opened the door and Lucy brushes past her sister into the house. “I need to get to work, I’m late enough as it is.”“I’m sure you can make it up to the boss.” Lucy smirks as she removes her coat and hangs it up followed by toeing her shoes off. “After all, you are shagging him.”“Oh don’t be facetious Luce it doesn’t suit you.” Ellie snaps as she slams the front door.“I can’t stay all day. Going into town later with Tina and the girls and I need to get ready.” Lucy reveals as she walks towards the kitchen.Ellie who is hot on her heels explains that this arrangement won’t be a full day affair. “I’m going to take a half day so I’ll be back after picking Fred up, about 3.30pm, that ok?”“Smashing.” Lucy replies, as she heads straight to the kettle. “So what do you want me to do?”Lucy begins making herself at home, filling the kettle up and turning it on to boil.“Tom’s in bed sleeping. Just check on him regularly and get him some lunch if he’s hungry. There’s some tins of soup in the cupboard if he feels up to eating later. Just keep me posted. There’s plenty of food in the fridge so help yourself to what you want.”“Sounds simple enough.” Lucy replies as she’s throwing a teabag in to a mug. “Oh, looks like you could do with picking up some milk on your way home.” Lucy mentions once she retrieves the near empty bottle from the fridge, waving it in Ellie’s direction.“Yes, I’ll pick some up. Now, are you sure you’ll be ok?”“Yes, now piss off, please.” Lucy tells her sister, grabbing her shoulders and turning her around and walking her to the front door and opening it. “See you later, El. Oh an don’t forget to make it up to Hardy when you get in.”Ellie doesn’t reply, instead throws her middle fingers up as she walks to her car, not turning back to look at her sister. Later in the day Ellie and Alec have broken break for a quick ten minute lunch. Ellie has worked at double the speed on her paperwork in order to catch up before lunch to make up for the lost two hours earlier. As they sit there eating – a cheese salad sandwich and ready salted crisps for Ellie, a salad for Alec – she’s filling him in on Tom’s condition as per Lucy’s nondescript messages she’s sporadically received throughout the course of the morning.Getting up from the sofa once finishing the last of her lunch she cannot help but notice Alec seeming a little distracted. She’s watched him sit at his desk and repeatedly pick over his salad, only eating a few intermittent bites. He’s eaten maybe half at most, which at one point wasn’t uncommon, but really was unlike him now.“Not hungry, love?” Ellie asks as she throws her rubbish in the office bin. “Nah, not really.” He replies, pushing the takeaway box away from him, and looking at her. “Sorry. Maybe I’ll try again in a bit.”“Hey I was thinking of doing Spaghetti Bolognese for tea. Fred’s favourite. He’s been on all last week about having it. That ok with you?” She asks as she makes her way behind the desk. She senses something is wrong and wants to find out what, therefore she hopes some kind of shoulder massage might help alleviate some stress and discomfort.“Yeah, fine.” Alec responds unenthusiastically, stifling a yawn.“Don’t sound too excited.” Ellie laughs as she begins to gently massages his shoulders. “Sorry, tired. Bit of a headache.”Lowering herself to his level she begins massaging his neck and scalp, seductively whispering in his ear. “Let me help take care of that for you.” “Mmm. That’s nice.” He says breathily as he relaxes in to her touch as she cards her fingers through his hair massaging his scalp delicately. “Don’t stop.”Ellie grins to herself, momentarily biting her lip as her hands roam his scalp. “Like that, do we, Detective Inspector?”“Mmm. Magic fingers.” Alec grinds out with a groan when her fingers brush over a sensitive spot.Ellie takes a risk by quickly placing a kiss on his whiskey cheek, and another on his neck, and another in the sensitive spot behind his ear which is met with a guttural groan. “Your fingers are pretty magic too.” She smirks as she kisses his neck once more, deliberately pushing herself as close as she can to get a reaction.“Bloody hell, woman.” Alec jerks away and looks around at Ellie who has removed her hands form his body. “If you’re not careful I’m going to end up at the point of no return.”“Never been a problem before.” She quips, whipping his swivel chair around to look at him suggestively. “Wouldn’t be a bad thing would it?” “No, but, well… not here.” Alec shifts uncomfortably in his seat crossing one leg over the other. “We can’t. What if, what if someone walked in?”Sensing Alec is having difficulty restraining himself, Ellie offers a solution. “Do you need me to lock the door and close the blinds? Let you get it out of your system, hmm?”“We can’t do that here.” Alec says horrified that she could even suggest such a thing.“No one will know. They’ll just think you’re in one of your moods if I close the blinds and discreetly lock the door. No one will bother us. They know to stay away if the boss has a cob on.”Ellie’s offer is tempting, but they can’t. They can’t lock themselves away to… well, whatever the hell it is Ellie has in mind. Or can they?Suddenly Alec’s made up his mind taking Ellie by surprise. “For Christ sake Miller, how could you be so stupid? We’re going to have to write that report all over again, now.”It takes Ellie a moment to register where he is heading with this. “Oh.” She twigs quietly before going full throttle at him. “It’s not my fault, Sir. It’s your stupid computer. Do you know how long I spent on that? Knob.”Stifling a laugh he continues going full on angry DI mode. “I don’t care, I still need you to do it all again. I don’t care if it takes you all afternoon.”Their eyes glance through to the bullpen and and they spot a few Detectives with their heads down at their desks, presumably trying to keep a low profile once the shouting commenced.“Is anyone watching?” He asks, almost excitably.“No, but I think they’ve heard what’s going on. Maybe a bit more chastising just to be sure.” Ellie sniggers.“Incompetence, Miller. Absolute incompetence.” He yells, slamming his fist down on his desk for good measure to do enough justice to their fake argument to make it appear as realistic as possible to anyone listening. “I cannot believe you could do such a thing. Un-bloody-believable.”“Well I am sorry, Sir.” She shouts before lowering her voice and running her tongue across her lips seductively. “Looks like you’ll need to reprimand me.”That’s it. That’s all it takes. “Lock the door and close the blinds.” He blurts out suddenly so only she can hear, in an almost pained way now.“Fuck sake. How bloody dare you. I’m not having the whole station stare at me now you’ve embarrassed me.” She shouts, closing all the blinds with haste before locking the office door silently so no one would cotton on to the fact that this argument wasn’t actually some secret tryst. “That was actually quite something.” He sniggers as his arms link around her lower back and he pulls her towards him.“Oh yeah?” She asks as her arms snake around his neck. “Turn you on, did it, Inspector?”Alec growls before their mouths meet hastily, teeth clashing together almost painfully as they kiss hungrily. Their tongues soon begin to explore each other’s mouths. Ellie moans which causes Alec to buck his hips in to her.“Christ. You really are at the point of no return.” She grins against his mouth once she feels him hard against her stomach. “Mmm Hmm.” He replies as his kisses become more frantic and urgent, moving away from her mouth to her cheek, to her neck. She can feel him suck lightly on her pulse point before a tongue lavishes the spot he’s gently nipped, and Christ, the soft moans she’s emitting is making him harder by the second. His hands wander, skating up her ribs before pushing her jacket off her arms so it falls to the floor with a light thud, but neither of them care. Ellie fumbles with his tie, undoing it and whipping it out from under the collar, flinging it to the floor, before returning the favour of removing his suit jacket.Once his arms are free Alec turns his attention to cupping both her breasts gently squeezing them beneath the all too many layers of fabric. “If we’re really doing this, then no messing about, we haven’t got time for foreplay, Alec.” Ellie pants as she runs a hand over his bulge, causing his hips to buck unexpectedly.“I can do quick if I put my mind to it.” He smirks, batting her hands away to open his belt buckle push his trousers off his hips in a more timely manner than she can. She too takes the opportunity to step out of her trousers and climbs on to the desk, sitting on the edge where she parts her thighs ready for him. He manoeuvres himself in to the v of her legs and grabs both thighs pulling her slightly closer to him as they kiss again briefly. Ellie caresses the bulge in his pants. “Ngh. Don’t otherwise I’m not going to last.” He mumbles and Ellie removes her hand.As his hands leave her thighs, gently stroking his way upwards to find the elastic of her panties that rest on her hipbones, he slips a couple of fingers inside the material to pull them down, however a mobile begins to ring making them spring apart momentarily.“Shit.” She huffs when the flagrant moment is interrupted. Alec’s head is thrown back in bewilderment, but after the initial shock, steps back to where he was and his hands settle on her hips. Fumbling around on the desk searching for the ringing phone, she is distracted by Alec nipping at her neck, placing delicate kisses there as Ellie retrieves her phone from the desk, too engrossed in the fun to actually check the caller ID.“Miller.” Ellie says, trying her hardest to keep her breathing level and sound professional as she accepts the call.While Alec is a engrossed in the milky white flesh of her neck, he is unaware of the look on her face. She appears fraught and her free hand comes to rest on Alec’s chest, an indication for him to stop immediately. He does so and stands back, looking concerned as he listens to Ellie talk to whoever is on the end of the line. “Oh, no. Is he ok? Ok. Yes… Yes I will. Fifteen minutes. Thank you.” Cutting the call, the phone is thrown down on the desk in indignation. “What’s happened?” He asks tentatively. “Is it Tom?”“Fred. He’s been sick and has a temperature. School want me to pick him up, now.” Ellie reveals with a sigh.“Oh no, poor lad.” Alec backs away and hastily pulls up his trousers that are around his ankle, whilst Ellie slips off the desk to retrieve her trousers from the floor and do the same. Redressing and smoothing her clothing and hair down, she Turns to Alec. “Is my hair ok?” She asks as she runs her fingers through it. Alec nods. “Do I look presentable to pick up my son?”“Hmm, maybe one more thing.” Alec says as he leans down, his hands cupping her cheeks as he plants a firm brief kiss on her lips. “You’re all good now.”“Wanker.” She laughs as she returns the favour by straightening his tie. “I suggest you take a moment to calm down, or go to the toilet and deal with that.” She instructs, eyes focusing on the bulge in his trousers.“Hmph.” He sighs as he retreats to the other side of the desk and sits down. “You owe me one.” “Get in line.” She laughs, blowing him a kiss as she unlocks the door and leaves.He hears her talk to someone outside the office. “I wouldn’t go in there for at least half an hour, the wanker is in a foul mood.”Alec chuckles to himself, as he reaches for the half eaten salad. Suddenly he’s worked up an appetite. Ellie opens the front door and Fred immediately takes his coat off, letting it fall to the floor in the hallway as he runs into the lounge.“Fred! What are you doing home?” Lucy exclaims, putting the magazine she’s reading down on the sofa to talk to her nephew. “Are you ok, lovely?”“Sick.” Fred says plainly as he gets on the sofa beside her. “Teacher sent me home.”Lucy notices the listlessness and pale skin of the young lad. He’s definitely sick she thinks and shuffles away from him.Before another word is spoken, Ellie enters the lounge and says hello to her sister but doesn’t receive a greeting in return, just a exasperated: “What’s going on, El? Don’t tell me he’s sick too?”“Fred was sick at school and has a temperature so I had to pick him up. Will you be ok minding him while I go back to work?”Lucy shakes her head and haughtily stands up from the sofa, deciding she cannot be around anymore illness and informs Ellie she needs to leave immediately.“Sorry, El, but one sick kid who stays out of my way fine, but two, no way.” She begins her tirade, picking up her handbag from the sofa. “I’m going out later, I don’t want to catch anything. At least Tom stayed in bed, Fred will be jumping all over me spreading his germs. Yuck.”Lucy marches out of the lounge to the hallway and hurriedly steps into her shoes and picks up her coat from the peg. The subject is not up for discussion.“Oh come on Luce, please. I have to get back to work.” Ellie pleads. “How about I give you £20 to buy a round of drinks?”Ignoring her sister she hurriedly puts her coat on and reaches for the door handle. “Sorry Sis, you’ll have to do it, your kids after all.” Lucy concludes as she opens the door and leaves, strutting down the driveway.“£50.” Ellie shouts in to the wind.“No!” Lucy retorts as she continues walking.“Thanks very much.” Ellie calls out as a sarcastic afterthought before slamming the front door.Now home for the remainder of the day, she takes her coat and boots off and pads into the kitchen with her handbag, hanging it on a chair. Once she boils the kettle and fixes a drink for Fred, she pulls out her phone from her handbag and texts Alec to let him know she won’t be coming back to work.
Can’t come back. Lucy won’t look after two sick kids. Sorry x
Once Fred is settled in front of the tv with his juice and a blanket, Ellie goes to check on Tom who is sound asleep. Rather than wake him, she goes back downstairs to finish making a cuppa for herself. It’s then that her phone buzzes. She picks it up and smiles to herself as she reads.
Shame. Was hoping you’d come back and help me with that ‘report’. Had to deal with it myself…
Ellie smirks as she types a quick reply and fires it off.
I’ll give it a thorough look over later. Now, get back to work Detective Inspector x
Later Ellie is scrolling aimlessly on her phone as she sits on the sofa beside a sleeping Fred who is snoring softly under his favourite blanket. He’s had Calpol and it’s knocked him out. Not even PJ Masks playing on the tv in the background is enough to rouse him.Losing track of time, Ellie hears the front door click shut. Daisy’s home early she thinks as she notes it’s barely past 3pm. As not to wake a sleeping Fred, she pops her mobile into her cardigan pocket and walks into the hallway to greet Daisy.“Hi love, you’re home early.” Ellie states as Daisy is hanging her coat up.“Err yeah. I don’t feel good. Teacher excused me from my last lesson.” Daisy replies once she turns to face Ellie. “Oh goodness, love. You look terrible. Why didn’t you call me I would have picked you up.” Ellie chastises as she gives Daisy the once over.Her forehead is modelling a few beads of sweat, she looks pale and exhausted.“I thought I’d walk, get some air you know. My head felt fuzzy.” Daisy explains as she heads for the stairs. “I think I need to lie down, El.”“Ok, love. You go on up. I’ll bring you up a drink and some paracetamol.” Ellie soothes as she rubs Daisy’s arm for reassurance. “Thanks, El.” Daisy gratefully nods. “Oh, how’s Tom? He text me earlier to say he wasn’t good.”“He’s sleeping. Fred is sick too. Had to pick him up from school at lunchtime so that’s three of you. Seems this Winter Flu is hitting hard. So get yourself up to bed and I’ll be up with paracetamol shortly.”Daisy nods and begins climbing the stairs lethargically. Ellie feels for the girl. She better message Alec to tell him that yet another member of the clan has succumbed to illness. Alec arrives home later in the evening, finding Ellie cooking some shop brought Tortellini and sauce on the stove in the kitchen. “Hey.” Alec greets her and she turns to see him holding a six pint bottle of semi skimmed that Ellie forgot to pick up on her way from collecting Fred.“Oh, you lifesaver.” Ellie smiles, taking it out of Alec’s hand and kisses his cheek, grateful.Putting the milk away she tells him: “There will be mutiny if the kids don’t have milk for their cereal in the morning, or I don’t have milk for my tea.”Alec mumbles a subdued ‘yeah’ as he takes his suit jacket off and hangs it on the back of one of the chairs, slumping down, while Ellie returns to the stove to dish the pasta up.“Hope you’re hungry. Kids didn’t want anything except some soup so they have already eaten. I couldn’t be bothered to cook properly so I hope this will do for dinner, it’s just pasta and sauce.” She asks as she serves up two steaming bowls of pasta, bringing them to the table and placing one in front of Alec.A modest sized bowl of tortellini and sauce, plus accompanying bread and salad to share on the table follow.“Not overly hungry.” Alec whispers to himself answering Ellies rhetorical question upon seeing the masses of food. “Er, thanks.” Ellie sits down opposite Alec and begins to pick up some salad with the tongs to add to her bowl. She picks up a couple pieces of French Stick for good measure before tucking in.Alec picks up his fork and stabs a tortellini and pushes it around the bowl. He looks at the food and can’t bring himself to put it in his mouth. Pausing for a moment he takes a breath to build himself up to eating. He sees Ellie looking at him intrigued.“Everything ok?” He asks putting his fork down.“I was thinking. Seeing as the kids are back in their rooms, I thought maybe we could eat then have an early night. Maybe look over that report again?” Ellie grins as she catches Alec’s eye.“I’d love to, but I don’t have the energy, El. I feel terrible and need to sleep I think. I don’t think I’m even hungry.”“Please don’t tell me you’re coming down with this winter flu as well?” Alec nods gingerly. “I think I might be. Sorry, love.”Alec stands and moves around the table to kiss the top of her head briefly before heading upstairs to bed.“Bloody marvellous.” Ellie sighs after Alec has vacated the kitchen. “Damn Winter flu.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Day 3: Snow Man
“Snow! Snow! Snooow!” Fred is shouting as he jumps on the bed of a sleeping Ellie and Alec, a little after 7.30am on Sunday morning, clad in his PJ Masks pyjamas. “Snow, Mumma!”Ellie groans before she’s even opened her eyes. So much for a Sunday morning lie in. She blearily opens her eyes and sits up in bed against the headboard, disoriented from the sudden wake up call. “What is it, Freddie?”“Snow!” Fred beams, somewhat animated. “I wanna build a snowman.”“You can’t build one with no snow, lovely.” Ellie states, stifling a yawn. “Besides, it’s far too early.”Pouting, Fred reiterates more seriously. “But there is snow Mumma.” “No, Fred. No snow, so no snowman.” “But…” Fred sighs, shoulders slumped. “There is lots of snow in the garden.”Ellie frowns. She begins to wonder if there is any truth in Fred’s story or if he’s playing a trick to get her out of bed to make breakfast. “Alec.” She quietly says, giving the sleeping figure beside her a gentle rub on the arm that’s resting across her middle but he doesn’t respond. “Well Fred I’m very surprised if there is snow in the garden. What did we say about not telling the truth?”Sighing dramatically with a look of indignation, Fred stares at his mother. “If I always don’t tell the truth then nobody will believe me when it is true. The boy and a wolf.”“Exactly Freddie. The Boy Who Cried Wolf”“But I’m telling the truth, there’s snow in the garden, mumma!” The boy tells his mother firmly, annoyance in his tone because he feels his mother doesn’t believe him. “Alec, Alec. Wake up. Mumma doesn’t believe me.” Fred starts to pummel Alec’s arm and this wakes him instantly. “Urgh.” Alec mumbles, removing his arm from Ellie’s waist but still very much asleep. “Wha – what’s going on?”“We need to build a snowman, Alec.” Fred yells far too excitably for the time of day. “Up!”Alec gingerly sits up rubbing his face with the heels of his hands as he joins Ellie in resting himself against the headboard exposing the grey t-shirt he is wearing. “Fred, lad. Do you know what time it is?” Alec asks blearily, he’s still refocusing his eyes and brain after waking rather unexpectedly. “Time to get up!” Fred giggles throwing himself in to Alec’s arms, which is met with an oof from Alec but he doesn’t mind one bit.“Yer cannae build a snowman w’ no snow.” Alec tells him, dialling the Scottish tone up a notch as he knows Fred loves it. “Yer need snow, lad.” Alec continues as he cuddles Fred and tickles him, making the boy scream with laughter.“But – snow – out – side.” Fred manages to say in between bursts of laughter. “Lots – of – ‘now.”Ellie decides it’s time to get out of bed and check if Fred really is fibbing or if there has in fact actually been snowing overnight. She throws the duvet back and steps out of bed in her red chequered flannelette pyjamas. Yawning as she pads towards the window, she hopes this is isn’t some kind of joke to get her out of bed early because Fred actually wants his breakfast or something. Grabbing the pull cord of the wooden slatted blinds, she can immediately tell something appears different outside, and therefore hastily pulls another cord to raise the blinds upwards to have a better view outside.“Oh, wow, Freddie. I’m sorry, you are right my love.” Ellie exclaims, unprepared for the amount of snow that’s settled everywhere “Alec, love. He’s not wrong.”Despite it still being relatively dark outside, the snow has made the dark morning seem lighter, making it appear later in the morning than it is with the snow making everything brighter. “Lotsa snow, Mumma.”Once Alec hears the exciting news (well, for Fred anyway) he releases Fred from his grasp so Fred can jump off the bed and run to Ellie. She is admiring the sea of pure white covering everything and everywhere. It all looks so peaceful and virginal, pure white snow untouched and identical to a scene from a film or Christmas card. It’s been years since it had snowed like this in Broadchurch so this was a novelty. Living by the coast, episodes of snowfall were few and far between, but when it did snow, it really did snow.The majority of the snowfall must have fallen during the night for the sheer volume that has settled, although it still continues to fall at gentler pace. “Told you Mumma.” “You did my love.” Ellie picks him up and rests him upon her hip and kisses his forehead. They stand there for a few moments before they are joined by Alec, who has managed to prize himself from the warmth of the bed. He stands beside Ellie, in his t-shirt and pyjama bottoms, wrapping an arm around her back and admiring the scenery. “Will you help me build a snowman, dad?” Fred asks unexpectedly. Alec half chokes, half coughs. He’s not sure if he’s heard the lad correctly. This is the first time Fred has called him dad since he and his mother moved in together six months prior. It’s a shock, and Alec certainly wasn’t expecting Fred to say it then, or even ever, but he’s touched. Really touched. Alec ruffles the boys curls. “Course I will, lad.” Alec says not making a big deal out of Fred’s outburst in case it was a simple error on the boy’s part. “But first, you need to go and wake Tom and Daisy so we can have some breakfast before we go outside, alright?” Alec looks at Ellie unsure what else to say given the dad bombshell that’s just been dropped. Ellie doesn’t say a word, instead puts Fred down and watches him run out of the bedroom, shouting Tom and Daisy’s names as he goes. “Dad, hey?” Ellie muses as she’s facing Alec, studying his face for a hint of, well, anything telling. “I didn’t ask him to call me that before you shout at me.” Alec protests. “That took me by surprise as much as it did you.”Ellie rolls her eyes and crosses her arms across her chest. “I’m not going to shout at you, knob.” “You’re not? So… I mean… Are you, are you ok with him calling me dad then? If it’s too soon or too much I’ll correct him.” Alec stammers. “I don’t want to cause – ”Suddenly Ellie places her finger to his lips and shushes him before dropping her hand once he’s got the message. “It was a surprise if I’m honest. But, a good surprise. What… what I am trying to say is… I’m more than ok with him calling you dad, as long as it’s alright with you? Hell, I mean you’ve been the only constant in his life besides Tom and I. I’m just surprised it’s taken this long for him to say it if I’m honest.”“Oh my god, of course it’s fine. More than fine. I love him and Tom as much as I do Daisy. They’re great kids, but they would be because their mother is pretty special too.” Alec gushes, his lips curling upwards into the biggest grin she’s ever seen. “Ever the flatterer.” She replies tongue in cheek as she strokes his bearded cheek.“Wouldnae have me any other way, lass.” Alec wraps his arms around Ellie’s waist still grinning like a Cheshire Cat. “Good, that’s settled then.” Ellie clarifies as she too wraps her arms around Alec’s neck looking longingly in to his eyes. “Tom’s still a work in progress, mind, but I know he thinks a lot about you, more than he cares to admit, but I will talk to him later about all this.” “I’ll take that.” Alec replies jovially, as one of his arms travels and strokes an errant curl behind her ear before coming to rest on her hip. “Even if he doesn’t see me like that, I’ll still love him. He’s old enough to decide what he wants and I’ll respect his decision. Joe was – is his father not me.”Struck by Alec’s heartfelt words, she leans forward and cups his cheeks placing a firm kiss on his lips. “Alec Hardy: Fred’s Dad.” She tests out the name again as she grins against his lips. “Suits you.” After Fred has enthusiastically woken Tom and Daisy and coerced them in to helping build the infamous snowman, an early breakfast of pancakes (Fred’s choice) are cooked by Alec and Ellie, and demolished by the kids quicker than it can be made.As Alec and Ellie sit at the breakfast table finishing off their coffee and pancakes, they send the children upstairs to change into warm clothing, strictly instructing they wear several layers, despite protests from Tom, who is adamant he doesn’t need them because he is hardened against winter weather through all the football matches he’s played during winter months over the years.Alec is first to consume breakfast and begins to tidy away around Ellie, stacking plates and cutlery in the dishwasher. As he’s pottering around the kitchen, complete with tea towel draped across his shoulder and still in his nightwear, Ellie laughs out loud. “What’s got you so chipper?” He turns around from the sink somewhat perplexed and asks Ellie why she’s laughing.Ellie gestures for Alec to sit down again and he does, beside her. “You. Standing there in my – our – kitchen looking like a domestic goddess. This. This whole setup we have now living together and we’ve not killed each other... yet. Us. Us together as a couple. I mean who would have thought it a few years ago? The children. Our beautiful and wonderful kids growing up together, getting on like they really are related. And finally, a Snowman. We’re Building our first of - hopefully -many Snowmen together as a family.” Ellie contentedly sighs. “Yer bloody soppy woman.” Alec chuckles as he leans forward and cups one of Ellie’s cheeks in his hand and plants a great big kiss on her lips briefly. He moves his lips away from hers ever so slightly to add, “Soppy woman but I love yer.”Ellie returns the kiss, grinning against his mouth, forcing out the following words in between kisses, “Love you too, Alec Hardy.”Without any warning, or if there was a warning they were too engrossed in each others lips to hear, they fail to notice Daisy suddenly reemerge in the kitchen holding Fred’s hand, Tom following behind.“Eww, put him down, mum!” Tom bemoans and the pair spring apart, mortified as they catch their breaths, faces flushed.Ellie notes that Tom has decided to wear a big coat and hat in the end, presumably he’s realised it’s not as warm outside as he initially thought.Daisy has got the memo and is suitably dressed for the occasion. She has assisted Fred in putting his clothes on as he stands there in his bright yellow coat, red bobble hat, scarf and gloves, completing the look with navy Wellington Boots.“Look at you my love.” Ellie beams at Fred and she pats him down to inspect him in the standard overly proud parent way. “Don’t you look lovely and warm.”“He’s got a thick jumper on, long sleeved shirt and a vest on as well, El.” Daisy reassures Ellie in case she worries Fred won’t be warm enough for their outdoor escapade.“Thanks, love.” Ellie answers Daisy with a grateful smile before turning her attention to an excitable Fred. “Now, Freddie. Why don’t you go and make a start with Daisy and Tom and we’ll be out in a few minutes?”“Ok mumma. But don’t be long, as I need dad’s help.” Fred blurts out as he looks up at Alec with pleading eyes. “You promised me, dad.”Tom looks at Ellie agape. Ellie searches Alec’s eyes for some kind of reassurance to Tom’s expected anger. Daisy looks nervously between the three of them, and down at Fred who is oblivious to the whole thing.“Ok, Fred, why don’t we go and make a start on the snowman.” Daisy says, quickly leading Fred to the garden, sensing the sudden tension between the three.“Yeah, I’ll err…” Alec gestures upstairs, removing himself from the suspected impending fall out. As soon as Fred is out of ear shot and the back door is closed, Ellie sighs, her hands momentarily covering her face. “I’m sorry, Tom. I was going to talk to you about that later.” There is a moments pause where Ellie thinks Tom is going to kick off, accuse Alec of taking Joe’s place, but she’s in for a surprise when he begins to speak.“‘S alright, mum. Kinda figured it would happen one day now we all live together.” Tom says maturely. “Fred never really knew Joe, but he’s practically been brought up by you and Alec, so it isn’t a surprise he said it. I guess I’m just amazed it’s taken this long for Fred to call Alec dad if I’m honest.”“Oh, love. That’s nice of you to say.” Ellie smiles, wiping a few stray tears that have fallen down her cheeks with the back of her hand. “You can call him Alec for as long as you need. I’ve never expected you to call him dad and he doesn’t expect you to either but you should know that Alec thinks a lot of you and I hope you know that. He loves you dearly and he’ll respect whatever you decide when and if you decide.”Tom sniffs, nodding at his mum. “It’s still early days for us all, but I know deep down he’s not Joe, he’ll never treat us the way he did. He’s a kind, caring, honest man.” Ellie reassures Tom. “Besides, he knows I’d rip his balls off if he ever hurt one of us.”That comment evokes snigger from Tom. “I think everyone knows you’d rip any man’s balls off if they ever hurt us.” Tom laughs knowing his mother would do such a thing if it ever came to it. “Mum, Joe isn’t my dad. He gave up that right when he killed Danny. I hated him then and I still hate him now. I don’t have a dad anymore… but if I did, a dad like Alec would be cool, I guess. But… that doesn’t mean I’m ready to call him my dad just yet. I might not ever be ready.” Tom strongly states. When did Tom grow up and be so wise beyond his years Ellie wonders. “Thank you for being honest Tom.” Ellie pulls Tom into a hug and kisses his forehead. “Love you more than chocolate.”“Urgh, can I go now, mum?” Tom mumbles like a typical teenager escaping his mothers clutches, but adding a more nubile: “I need to supervise Fred and Daisy.”“Away with you. I’ll be out soon.” Ellie smiles and Tom nods, grinning back at her before he turns and heads into the garden. It takes Ellie a few moments to gather her thoughts before she begins to walk out of the kitchen and upstairs to her bedroom to change into her outdoor clothes.As she opens the bedroom door she notes Alec has changed. He’s then pulling on an oversized thick grey woollen jumper over his thin navy jumper and long sleeved t-shirt.Closing the door behind her she walks into the bedroom and she can tell he’s studying her face, trying his best to work out the outcome of her talk with Tom, but he’s unable to read her this time. “How – how did it go with Tom?” He asks gingerly, after he sits on the edge of the bed crossing his arms watching Ellie move around the bedroom in search of clothes.“Better than I imagined. He’s actually cool with Fred calling you, dad. Surprisingly, he was shocked at how long it had taken Fred to refer to you as his dad.” Ellie tells him as she begins to pull out a jumper and jeans from the wardrobe before placing them beside Alec on the bed. “He reiterated the fact he doesn’t have a father anymore, not since, well you know…”“Ok, that’s a given.” Alec agrees, nodding. “But, do you know what he said?” Ellie says as she’s retrieving underwear and socks now. “If he did have a dad, having you as a father would be cool.”“Nice to know.” Alec responds nonchalantly. “No pressure on the lad. You know, and I hope he knows, that I’ll take care of him no matter what, whether he calls me Alec, Hardy, Shitface or dad. I’ll be there for him.”“I know you will, love.” Ellie smiles intently at Alec. He is so endearing and this is why she loves him. “Oh, and he said that even though he reckoned it would be cool, it doesn’t mean he’s ready to call you his dad just yet, if he ever does.”“And that is totally fine.” Alec tells her and slaps his thighs before standing. “Besides, when and if he’s ready, I’ll be here waiting.”Ellie turns her back to Alec as she fiddles with some socks in a drawer to hide the small sob that escapes her. “Thank you, love.” She eventually chokes out.Realising she needs a hug, Alec stalks across the room taking her in his arms from behind.“You don’t need to thank me, El.” Alec soothes, as his arms snake around her waist and he plants a couple of kisses on the side of her neck. “I’ll always be here for the boys and you.”Turning around to face him, Ellie wraps her arms around his neck and they both move forward and kiss passionately for a few moments, Ellie pulling away and smiling at Alec. “That was nice, lass.” “Mmm it was, but I need you to leave now.”“Why? Because you need to change?” Alec mocks theatrically grinning from ear to ear before adding, “Aww come on, I won’t look. Promise!” “Yeah right.” Ellie scoffs playfully hitting his arm. “Leave now so I can change because if you’re still here the moment I start stripping off, neither of us will make it downstairs, will we...”“Ok, fair point.” Alec sniggers, standing and placing one last chaste kiss on Ellie’s lips. “Don’t be long, though. We have a wee lad downstairs in need of our assistance.” Ellie arrives in the garden to see Tom and Alec pushing a massive snowball across the lawn that the four of them have evidentially achieved in her absence. Daisy is shovelling snow in to a heap, with Fred attempting to help her. She has to smile to herself. Their first snowfall together. Their first snowman is under construction. Their first Christmas is coming. Their family is blending together. The Hardy-Millers.Grabbing her mobile from her coat pocket, she begins to snap some candid photos of the four, before calling out to everyone and asking them to pose for the camera. Tom decides to pull some funny faces and sticks his tongue out, Daisy hoists Fred on to her hip and watches as the youngster waves to the camera. And then Alec is smiling lovingly at her, his cheeks rosy red with the cold air. “My beautiful family.” She whispers as she takes one final photograph and returns her mobile back in her coat pocket and walks over to her family. “Alright then, let’s get this snowman built.”
The End
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Day 4: Christmas Sweater
It's eerily silent in a certain office within Broadchurch CID, that even the drop of a needle would cause a noisy disaster. A heap of papers that lay on the desk start to rustle in a light breeze that comes from the bullpen because someone who hates the heat opened the window to let in fresh air, unaware of the high tension that could explode any second now. It's a contest of some sort. If performed in a Wild West movie, both opponents would've had weapons pointing at each other, the hot and unforgiving sun blinding, a lone tumble weed rolling by, sweat on the opponents temples. But this contest is a staring contest held in modern day England, no weapons involved. Just two rivals standing a metre apart, metaphorical guns loaded, waiting for the other to shoot – or in this case speak.Ellie Miller blocks the only door to the room, hands resting on her hips, a stern look on her face as she glares at Alec Hardy who sits behind his desk, his face a stoic mask.“I promised Bob we would go to his fundraiser in memory of his sister, and well, part of the deal is we have to wear a Christmas Sweater and give a donation to charity for the privilege.”Alec cocks an eyebrow, folds his arms haughtily across his chest. “I’m not wearing one. No way. To the pub or anywhere. No. End of.”“You bloody well are!” Ellie counters, stepping towards his desk and leaning forward, her hands planted on the edge of it as she looks directly at him. “If I have to wear one then so do you.”Alec ‘s eyes are instantly drawn downwards to the exquisite view a mere metre away. He cannot help but notice that the top few buttons of her blouse are unequivocally undone, revealing part of a red lace bra underneath. Running his tongue over his lips in sheer delight at the sight in front of him, he chastises himself mentally. He cannot be weak in this moment, he needs to stand his ground.“No I don’t.” Alec says as he uncrosses his arms and stands up and rests his hands on his skinny hips. “I am your superior officer and if I give you an order DS Miller, my order stands.”“Oh, for god sake, don’t be a knob. Don’t even think of playing the ‘I’m your boss’ card with me.” Ellie grinds out furiously as she too stands and mimics his stance and gives him her best pissed off expression.“Insubordination, Miller.” Alec bites back in all seriousness.Ellie’s eyebrows raise, her hands fall from her hips in disbelief. “Oh, it’s back to Miller now is it?” Her reply is dripping in sarcasm as she shakes her head.“When you are being insubordinate then, yes.” He snipes back, desperately trying to stop the corners of his mouth from turning upwards into a full on smirk. He’s secretly revelling in this, enjoying playing along to rile her up.Scoffing Ellie gets her own back by whispering: “Oh, well if that’s how you want to play it...” Alec looks puzzled for a moment until she continues. “Do not expect me to give in to any of your demands in the bedroom later.”“A sex ban?” Alec yelps an octave higher than it was meant to come out of his mouth. “You cannot be –”Alec doesn’t get to finish his sentence because there’s a gentle tap on the door and Katie Harford walks in uninvited, clipboard and pen in hand, oblivious to the topic of conversation. Oblivious, or tremendously good at acting professional.Alec stands to attention, all business now for the benefit of his staff.“Sorry to disturb, Sir, Ma’am. PC Bob wants to know if you’re definitely coming to the pub tonight for his charity do.”Before Alec can open his mouth to speak, Ellie is far quicker and answers for the both of them. “Yes, Katie, tell him we will be. Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”Katie nods, making a note on the clipboard, before looking up again and asking one final question. “And you got the memo about the sweaters? You have to wear one.” “Yes, thank you Katie we did, and we will be wearing them.” Ellie confirms smiling at the young Detective, who still stands in the doorway, no intention of leaving in any hurry, therefore Ellie has to prompt her. “Er, if that will be all Katie…?” Finally cottoning on, Katie nods. “Oh yes, yes, Ma’am. Thank you.” Katie replies, turning and scurrying away from the door back into the bullpen. Ellie wonders if the young Detective caught the tail end of their illicit conversation that took place moments earlier so hurries to close the office door to stop any further visitors from barging in unannounced.As soon as the door is firmly closed, Alec hesitantly picks up from where he left off. “So, just to recap if I don’t wear the jumper…?”“Then no sex for at least one week.” Ellie laughs at first and Alec relaxes momentarily, but then her brows knit together, furious expression on her face. “I’m not joking, Alec.” Alec grimaces, a strained expression upon his face. “Ohhh, come onnn.”“Take it or leave it. It’s a bit of fun for charity. We are going for Christmas drinks with our colleagues after work to raise money for the local hospice and all you need to do is wear a Christmas Sweater for a few hours.” Ellie reveals which makes Alec look a little guilty. “And if you do, then I might reconsider my ultimatum.”“Might?” Alec questions pensive. “Hang on, lass. The deal is if I wear it then there is no ban.”“Well after all this ‘I’m your boss schtick’ the rules changed. The ban will be lifted but not necessarily tonight.” Alec rubs a hand across his face knowing he cannot win when she’s like this. “Ok, look I promise I will wear it.”“You better.” Ellie moves around the desk and kisses his whiskery cheek before walking towards the door, opening it to leave, but not before adding: “Because you know what will happen if you don’t. As clocking off time occurs Ellie makes her way to Alec’s office, already wearing her sweater, orange parka undone over the top and handbag slung across her shoulder.“Right, time to go, Hardy. Off with your suit jacket so I can put this on you.” She smiles as she holds up the sweater briefly, allowing Alec the briefest of glances.He nods his approval. It’s not garish at all, or crude. It’s actually quite… normal. So much so that the evening might just be bearable.Removing his suit jacket and hanging it over the back of his desk chair, he walks around to the front of his desk and perches on the edge for Ellie to dress him. She’s adamant she helps him into the garment so he ‘doesn’t mess up his hair’. He doesn’t say a word, instead humours her, allowing her to reset his shirt collar so it is neat and tidy outside of the sweater. “Looks good on you.” She smiles in approval before reaching for his coat and helping him into it.“I can dress myself yer know.” He states as pushes his second arm through the sleeve and straightens it up.“I know, love. Just keen to get to the pub.” “You don’t say.” He chuckles as he turns off the office light and locks the door, following her.Less than ten minutes later they arrive at The Ship Inn. Some 80’s tunes play on the jukebox, laughter and jovial activity rife. It’s crowded for a Friday night with a flurry of off duty officers either propping up the bar or sitting around tables alongside several locals. Some locals are friends of Bob’s and are participating in his event as they wear a variety of Christmas Sweaters between them.“DI Hardy, Ellie.” Bob greets them as he spots them enter, raising his half empty pint glass as he props up the bar wearing an outlandish green Christmas Sweater with the words ‘I only get my baubles out once a year’ emblazoned on the front along with a Santa performing a strip tease. “Get you one?”“Hiya Bob. Thanks. I’ll take a pint of lager if you’re in the chair.” Ellie replies before nudging Alec to respond to Bob when he doesn’t say anything. He’s too busy scanning the room to see who is in attendance.“Oh, er yeah, same. Thanks, Daniels.” Alec nods, grateful, scratching the back of his neck in that all too familiar way when he’s nervous and out of his depth.Bob Daniels is one of only a handful of coppers he tolerates at the station. Although only a PC, Bob has been on the force longer than him, knows Broadchurch like the back of his hand, and has always looked out for Ellie so he’s one of the good ‘uns in his eyes.Bob waves at Trudy one of the servers behind the bar, requesting three more pints and a G&T for his better half and long suffering wife Sandra who sits beside him, in a more sedate grey jumper with stars embroidered on.“Hiya Sandra, how are you?” Ellie asks the woman as she pulls Sandra into a hug and they exchange a quick peck on the cheek in between Sandra confirming that she is indeed fine and pleased to see Ellie, because apparently it’s been too long since they last saw each other. “And you’ve managed to persuade DI Hardy to come along.” Sandra beams as she looks at Alec with a bright smile. “Aye, she did.” Alec nods, cheeks slightly flushed. “Well I hope you have a Christmas Sweater under your coats, otherwise my husband will not be best pleased.”“Oh we do, Sandra.” Ellie confirms before lowering her voice so only she can hear. “Bob will not be disappointed.” “I look forward to this.” Sandra smirks, raising her glass at Ellie in unbridled glee, before taking a swig of her drink.“Quite a turnout.” Ellie asserts as she looks around the room, eagerly waving to Dirty Brian and Katie who sit with members of their respective teams.“Aye it is. Julie would have been proud.” Bob raises his pint glass and looks up to the heavens. “God rest her soul.” Draining his pint glass, Bob pushes his glass away and Alec frowns, unaware of the story behind this yearly tradition, other than someone named Julie is supposedly no longer alive. “Julie?” He whispers in Ellie’s ear while Bob and Sandra exchange some hushed words. “Who is she?”“His bloody sister.” She replies quietly, a hint of annoyance in her tone. With a shake of her head she adds: “I already told you why we are here but you obviously didn’t listen.”Alec shrugs nonplussed. Maybe he should start making more of an effort to fit in, especially when it comes to Ellie’s friends. After all, her friends are also his now.As Trudy places the last of the pints on to the bar top, Bob thrusts £20 in to Trudy’s hand, telling her to get herself a drink with the remaining balance and to put any leftover change in the charity pot in front of him. “Get yourselves around these.” Bob grins as he passes the the pints to both Ellie and Alec, clinking his glass to their own. “Cheers.” Ellie and Alec reciprocate before taking a sip from their glasses once the toast is complete.“Well, don’t leave us in suspense you two.” Bob laughs, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand and placing his glass down before rubbing his hands together in excitement. “Let’s see what’s under your coats.”Alec looks at Ellie and she gives him a reassuring nod. They both place their drinks down on the bar top and begin undoing their coats and removing them, laying them on the backs of the two empty bar stool beside them.“Ta-da.” Ellie grins as she stands beside Hardy revealing matching red sweaters. Hardy is visibly embarrassed but manages a small pained smile.“Oh, yes. They are fantastic.” Bob nonchalantly exclaims as he eyes them both up and down. They are both wearing matching red knitted Christmas sweaters with a brown Highland Cow wearing a festive hat on the front and the words ‘I Love Moo’ emblazoned on both sweaters. Completely innocent from the front to anyone looking. “Not bad are they, love?” He asks his wife who responds with an overly animated ‘aww’ and thumbs up. “Well, give us a twirl then, Sir.”It’s then that Ellie grabs a hold of Alec’s arm and gestures for him to do a 360. As he turns away from her he is unaware of Ellie putting a finger to her lips briefly and mouthing the words ‘don’t say a word’ to Bob. Curious Bob’s eyes immediately hone in to the writing on the back of the sweatshirt. Mr Jingle Balls. The PC has to remain stoic and try his utmost not to laugh. He grabs hold of Sandra’s hand, gesturing for her to took too. He takes a swig of his beer as he cannot bear to look at the garment any longer in case he slips up.“Very nice, Sir.” Bob grins raising his glass to Alec who appears chuffed that he has won the seal of approval from Bob. “Suits you. Ellie did well choosing these.”“She did. And there was me paranoid what she had chosen for us would be awful, they are actually quite endearing.”“Well now I’ve seen your chosen attire, it’s time to pay up, Sir.” Bob declares, picking up his charity pot from the bar and waving it at Alec, who instantly retrieves his wallet from his trouser pocket and pulls out a £20 and stuffs it in to the collection to cover his and Ellie’s contribution. “Very generous, Sir.”As Alec sits himself on the bar stool to carrying on consuming is pint, Ellie sidles in beside him and Bob, deliberately turning her back to the PC so he can see what exact wording is on the back of hers.It only takes a few seconds for Ellie to know that Bob has spotted the wording when he belly laughs and his empty pint glass goes tumbling across the bar. “Mrs Tinsel Tits!” He exclaims, struggling to breathe. Sandra cannot help but giggle too.Alec turns to Bob frowning at the sudden outburst, presuming it is an in-joke between husband and wife. But, unbeknownst to Alec, Mrs Tinsel Tits is the exact wording on the back of Ellie’s sweater!She grins against her glass as she takes a long drag of her beer. Alec will kill her once he finds out that their sweaters have two sides, but with any luck he’ll be three beers down by the time he notices anything, and by then he won’t care… As the evening progresses and Alec and Ellie are on to their second pints as they prop up the bar with Bob, various officers from uniform and CID comment on their choice of jumpers. Alec seems thrilled his subordinates are taking an interest in his attire, particularly as it coincides with his Scottish heritage.Katie Harford is thrilled once she spies the infamous sweater later in the evening, whispering in Ellie’s ear while she waits for her tables’ round of drinks to be poured.“I can’t believe you got the boss in that, Ellie. Seems he does have a sense of humour after all.”Once Katie has retreated to her table, Dirty Brian appears, empty glass placed on the bar top and he asks for a refill. He claps Hardy on the back. “Good job on the sweater, Sir. Bloody brilliant.” Alec is taken aback by Brian’s friendly disposition. “Err, thanks, Brian.” “I guess it’s a better name than Shitface.” He concludes laughing, picking up his freshly poured pint and walking off chuckling.“Love Moo, a better name than Shitface?” Alec asks himself shaking his head, puzzled as he sups on his pint. Maybe Brian was two sheets to the wind already, he thinks.As the evening goes on into the evening, other colleagues subsequently congratulate Alec on his choice of clothing, but after a while he begins to feel self conscious. “Why is everyone smiling at me, El? Everyone seems to be making a fuss over my jumper but not yours. They’re the same, yeah, so I don’t get it?”“Must just love seeing you in a Christmas Sweater, love.” Ellie says as she places a hand on his thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze for reassurance.Content with Ellie’s answer, Alec announces he needs the toilet and goes off to ‘have a slash’ as he calls it once he’s had a few beers inside him. He’s still none the wiser and Ellie has to giggle when he’s gone.“He’s going to lose his shit once he cottons on to what’s on that jumper, El.” Bob states with a grin. “That’s if he realises, Bob. Hopefully I’ll get him too drunk to notice.” Meanwhile, as the proud Detective stands in front of the mirror above the sinks in the gents, he admires his Christmas Sweater, turning left and right, dipping a shoulder here and there to view the garment in it’s entirety. It’s not until he’s done this a few times that something reflecting back at him catches his eye. Frowning he turns to position himself to attempt to read the wording he’s only now noticed on the back. “Jingle, what?” He asks himself aloud, taking another look.Finally the penny drops.The dulcet tones of an angry Scot can be heard bellowing out from inside the toilets, causing the whole pub to roar with laughter. “Mill-arrrh!”
Fin.