Chapter 6

Tell me that you want me baby
Tell me that it's true
Say the magic words and
I would change the world for you

An army for the broken hearted
Marching through the streets
The city says surrender
And it's falling at your feet

I wanna hold you
My skies are turning black
Feels like a heart attack
And I'd do anything you ask

I wanna hold you bad.

‘Deep breathes Sarah.’ I lectured myself in my head to keep myself from falling out of the chair. It was a good thing I was sitting because my legs were completely numb.

If I had ever had a doubt that Greek gods exist in human form, I didn’t anymore.

“Hey Dougie.” Ren said, snapping me out of my frozen state.

Dougie Winslade had done some serious growing up since the last time I had seen him. That had been five years ago when I was 9 years old, the first time that I had met Ren. We were at Spruce Meadows in Calgary over spring break and we had sat next to the Winslade’s by chance and Ren and I immediately became friends. The last couple times I had been in England I had only met up with Ren or Ren and his parents. Dougie was busy with other commitments.

Back then, he was just a little 10 year-old-boy, and now he was much closer to a man. His plain white v-neck t-shirt did little to conceal the toned muscles underneath. His long tanned arms had definition in all the right places. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to touch the fingertips of both of my hands together around his biceps. His shoulders and chest seemed a mile wide and the muscles all pulled in tight around his waist, forming his torso into a very noticeable V shape. His legs seemed endless and his quads strained against his jeans. My eyes moved upward and took in his raised collarbone that was displayed perfectly by the v-neck collar. His neck was long and thick with muscle. Then my eyes came to rest on his face.

If Dougie’s body wasn’t enough to scramble my thoughts and make my heart go into overdrive, his face did little to help get my emotions under control. Dougie’s jaw was strong and wide and from what I had caught of his side profile, he had a heavy-set jaw line. His lips were full and looked gloriously soft. His cheekbones were sharp and set high. His eyes were wide, deep pools of chocolate brown and were surrounded by long dark lashes. His hair was as amazing as Ren’s. Mainly dark brown but with mocha coloured highlights and even darker lowlights. It swept across his forehead and just like Ren the bed head look came natural, except his had been tamed a little more.

As if he couldn’t get more god like he parted those full lips exposing a heartbreaking white smile of perfect straight teeth.

“Hey Ren, see you managed to get Sarah here in one piece.” My body locked itself into place as his eyes caught mine. He slid off his shoes and made his way over to me. “Good to see you again Sarah! What has it been? 5 years?”

I quickly found my voice and took a deep breath “Yeah about that.” I smiled up at him towering over me.

“What no hug?” He teased. My eyes went slightly wide as he reached out and lifted me out of the bar stool seat, pulling me into his chest. I wrapped my arms around his muscular waist as his secured around my shoulders

‘Holyfuckingmotherofgod’ my brain had lost the ability of forming a coherent thought as I felt the muscles in his chest, back and arms flex around me. Sooner than I wanted he pulled away. I thought I saw the hint of confusion in his features, but it only lasted a second, probably just my own imagination getting away from me.

Dougie pulled out the chair beside me and sat down. “Smells good Ren.”

Ren gave him a sarcastic look “When doesn’t my cooking smell good?”

Dougie cracked a smile. “Good point. I can not really say anything bad though because you do feed me the majority of the time.”

Ren pointed the knife at him “Exactly.” He went back to chopping up an onion. “Where were you today anyways?”

“Over at Mandy’s.” Dougie turned to me “My girlfriend.” He gave me a small smile. I returned it but I could feel my insides deflating.

“Oh, and how was that?” Ren started to get a little violent with the onion chopping.

“Good we didn’t really do much. Just hung around her house watching movies it was sort of boring to be honest.”

“That’s what you did all day? Just watched movies?” Ren stopped massacring the onion and looked at his brother, raising his right eyebrow.

“Well, we didn’t really watch one of the movies…” Dougie mumbled.

Ren raised both eyebrows. “Oh.” Was all he said before turning back to the mangled onion on the cutting board. He put that one in the frying pan and gabbed another one. He started slicing it a little to violently then his normal fluid movements. I locked eyes with him and glanced down at the poor onion and back up at him with a confused look on my face. He sent me a look saying he would explain later.

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After a dinner of Cesar salad, ham roast, brown rice with vegetables and roasted potatoes I was pretty sure I would have a food baby for a week. I helped Ren and Dougie clean up, Mary-Ellen and Douglas went out to catch a theater production. After the kitchen was spotless we all headed into the living room and collapsed on the couches.

“So since you’re the guest here, what do you want to do?” Ren asked me.

“Well you could finish you’re tour of the house, I’ve only seen the main floor and the backyard. Then maybe we could watch a movie?”

“Sounds like a good idea. You in Doug?”

“Hmm?” Dougie pulled himself out of his thoughts “I was actually thinking of going for a swim first, I haven’t exercised at all today.”

“Like one day without exercise is going to kill the incredible Hulk.” Ren rolled his eyes at his brother.

Dougie laughed, “Well no but I just need to clear my head.”

Ren’s eyes grew wide and worry flooded into them making the sparkle in his celery green eyes dull “Dougie…” He stammered, “You shouldn’t be-“

Dougie cut him off “It’s fine Ren, don’t worry okay?” He got up and made his way up the stairs, ending the conversation. Ren’s eyes followed him down the balcony hallway upstairs, his eyebrows knitted them selves together in obvious concern and his lips were pressed together in a thin line.

I leaned forward tentatively, placing my hand on his knee. “Ren?”

He brought his eyes to mine and smiled a little. “I shouldn’t worry anymore, I know he’s not going to do anything stupid again but it just sounds so much like the last time and I just shrugged it off; just thought it was his own way of dealing with it…” he turned his gaze to his feet as he clenched his fists until his knuckles were white.

I placed my right hand on his cheek and he snapped his eyes back up to mine, the quickly turned playful and he cracked that signature smile. “Let’s finish this 5 cent tour then shall we.” He grabbed my hand that was resting on his cheek and jumped to his feet pulling me behind him he headed down to the basement.

“Alright so this is the entertainment room. Our own personal theater.”

Ren wasn’t exaggerating. There was a huge automatic projection screen between bookcases filled with row upon row of movies. There were surround sound speakers all over the room and the lighting was low. A projector hung from the ceiling and underneath the projection screen was a cabinet holding what appeared to be a blue ray, CD and DVD players. The couch curved slightly and was divided into five captain-like chairs, each complete with a cup holder and armrests. They all appeared to recline as well and have footrests.

In the back corner was a bar complete with a full fridge and a microwave, obviously that was used for popcorn.

“Oh my gosh, can we please watch the movie down here?”

Ren laughed and ruffled my hair “Obviously Sarah. But go walk through that door over there.” He pointed to the one by the bar.

I looked at him skeptically “You aren’t going to lock me in the bathroom are you?”

Ren laughed loudly and gave me a shove in that direction. “Just go I’ll stand right here.”

I opened the door and flicked on the light.

Oh. My. God.

This room was huge but instead of being a bedroom or something else along those lines, it was a giant walk in closet. I walked transfixed into the middle of the room slowly looking around. Ren came into the room behind me with a bemused smile on his face.

“Okay, you can lock me in here and I promise not to complain. Why do you have this room?”

“This is all our formal attire plus seasonal clothes. We don’t have room to keep all the suits and stuff in the closets in our bedrooms. We all have a section for our clothes.”

“This is amazing! Can we please spend a day where you are trying on all of your clothes for me.”

“I’m not a life size Ken doll for you to play dress up with Sarah.” He rolled his eyes at me “Don’t worry I am sure you will see most of these clothes on me over the course of the year.”

We walked back out of my dream closet and I finally saw the back wall.

I walked over and stopped in front of it “Whoa.”

The wall was covered from top to bottom with shelves of trophies, photos, medals and a few framed jerseys.

“That side is all of Dougie’s awards,” Ren gestured to the left side of the wall “and these are all of mine.”

Ren’s side consisted mainly of ribbons and trophies from his success with equestrian riding. I know lots of guys back home thought horseback riding was somewhat of a joke for guys to be doing but over here in England it was huge. Ren was amazing at it. He mainly did eventing and his horse was gorgeous. He had been competing in Calgary at Spruce Meadows just before we had come here. His horse, Noteworthy, was flying back in a couple of days. There were photos of him when he was little with the lesson horses he rode and photos of him competing on Nate (Noteworthy’s stable name). Then there were photos of him playing volleyball and photos of his academic achievements. Newspaper articles were collaged together in a massive frame. His certificates were all in their own separate frames.

Dougie’s side on the other hand was mainly composed of volleyball awards. He was one of the top recruits in the world right now for universities. I had seen videos of him playing that Ren had shown me and it was unbelievable how good he was. The shelves and wall were covered with awards from medals to trophies and certificates. Most of them were MVP awards and a collection of All-Stars as well. Newspaper articles were everywhere and the photos were incredible.

“This is so cool, what gave you guys the idea to put it down here?”

“No more room in our bedrooms.” Ren laughed lightly. “Speaking of which I’ll show you my room now.”

We made it to the top of the stairs and I went over to the railing and looked down into the living room. The massive two story windows showed the backyard all lit up with garden lights. “This is way to cool, I love those windows!”

“Yeah they are really something else. Come on my rooms this way.”

Ren turned to the right and walked down the hall then he took another right down a smaller hallway. “That is dad’s office.” He pointed to the door on the left hand side “The one at the end there is the workout room and this one is mine.” He opened up the door on the right hand side and stepped in. I followed behind him as he switched on the light.

Ren’s room was a fairly good size. The walls were painted in a forest green colour; there was one floor to ceiling French style window in the far wall corner that faced the driveway. The curtains were long and white. His bed was pressed into the opposite corner of the same wall. In the opposite corner of the room was a flat screen TV and a beige couch. White book shelves stood on either side of the TV and were filled with books, DVD’s and video games. There were photos all over his wall and a desk with a laptop. Beside the desk was an acoustic guitar.

I smiled at him “This room is so you.”

He laughed, “Yeah, the bathroom is just through that door.” He motioned to the door that was beside one of the bookcases. “Anyways that’s the tour. I won’t bother showing you the other bedrooms they aren’t as exciting.”

“Movie time then?”

Ren grinned down at me. “Heck yes.”

Chapter 5

After driving for about half an hour we pulled up to a tall beautiful rot iron-gate. Douglas pressed a button on his dashboard and the gate slowly rolled open. As the car slowly pulled forward up the drive I got to see Ren’s house for the first time. All the other times that I had come to London Ren and I had met up somewhere in town or at my Aunt’s house.

The Winslade’s house stood two stories tall, except it seemed to be stretched out a lot more than a normal two-story house. The entire house was encased in beautiful white bricks and had floor to ceiling French windows. The porch wrapped around the entire house and had a rot iron railing to match the gate out front. To the left was the garage, it was built separately from the house because the house was built about 150 years ago when the first generation of the Winslade family purchased the property. The house had been a victim to a fire about 60 years ago and was damaged beyond repair. Ren’s great grandfather completely rebuilt the original house from the ground up making sure everything was exactly the same as before. The only change he made was adding a basement.

“Oh my god.” I whispered out loud. I was imminently in love with the house and I hadn’t even seen the inside yet.

Ren let out a laugh “Knew you would love it.”

Douglas pulled into the garage and we all climbed out and headed up to the front double door. Ren opened it and stepped back to let me in. I walked over the threshold and my jaw dropped.

Directly in front of me was a grand staircase leading upstairs, it fanned open at the bottom and was made out of a beautiful cherry wood. The railing top was a forest green while the fence part was made out of copper and was in the shape of twisted vines and leaves. The main floor was completely open. To my right was the kitchen, which consisted of white wooden cabinets and counters with a bright green stone like countertops and the appliances were all stainless steel. There was an L shaped island part that made the kitchen into a perfect square. On one side there was an eating bar. Behind that was a massive dining room table with a frosted glass table top and white legs with white chairs that had green cushions, the exact same as the bar stools. I could see the side of a massive aquarium that was against the side of the stairway.

To the left of the staircase was first a room in the front corner, which I assumed was a bathroom. Then sat a beautiful black grand piano, I knew that Mary-Ellen played and Ren knew a few songs as well because he would play around on my piano at home. The farthest into the house was the living room. From what I could see from my spot at the door was a massive flat screen incased in an elaborate chocolate brown entertainment stand that was attached to the wall. Surrounding it were photos, pottery and books. The furniture was white leather and it all appeared to be the glorious Stressless line from Norway.

“Wow.” That was all I could say. I just gawked at how beautiful and tasteful it was.

“It’s home.” Ren smiled as he walked in behind his father and shut the door.

“Give her a tour Ren, I need to go up and make a few phone calls. Let me know when dinner is ready.” Douglas hung up his coat in the closet before disappearing up the stairs.

“Alright let’s give you the 5 cent tour then shall we. Just follow and listen to me.”

Ren walked around to the kitchen side and stopped behind the staircase. I followed and when I came to a stop by his side my jaw immediately dropped again. I looked up and saw that on the back wall of the house there were only two windows but they were two stories high and about twenty feet wide each. The upstairs hallway was open downstairs and had a dark cherry railing, the same wood as the staircase. In between these two massive windows was a double French patio door that led to the backyard.

Ren walked up to the door and just before he opened it he turned to me. “Just a heads up, you may get mauled.”

I gave him a puzzled look as he opened the door for me. I stepped out onto the back porch and I heard the sound of something running. I turned to my right and saw two German Shepherds bounding excitedly towards me. I immediately dropped to my knees and started petting them.

Ren kneeled down beside me and grabbed the bigger one with the black leather collar. “This is Theo and that one trying to kiss you to death is Tess.” I laughed as I gave Tess a hug to prevent her from licking me.

“They’re gorgeous! How old are they?”

“Just turned three so they have a ton of energy.” Ren got up and grabbed a tennis ball that was sitting on the deck. Theo and Tess’s attention was caught immediately; Ren pulled his arm back and threw the ball far off into the backyard. Both of the dogs flew off the deck, racing each other to the ball.

“Alright a moments peace to continue the tour. So to your left of the porch you will see an outdoor kitchen. Complete with a dishwasher, fridge and BBQ.” The counters were made out of a bleached wood and were topped off with a tan coloured stone countertop and stainless steel handles to match the appliances.

“To your right here is a sitting/lounge whatever you want to call it area.” There was a cabana style tent over top of the U shaped couches. The cushions were cream and the coffee table and couch was made of the same bleached wood as the counters in the kitchen.

Ren took a few steps that direction. “Pretty sure you know what this is.” The deck had been built up around the hot tub, sort of like a raised platform. There was a set of stairs on either side to climb up. It overlooked the pool in the backyard.

Ren went back to the center of the deck, straight ahead of where we came out of the house was a stairway to head down a rock path that was lined with small trees and garden lights. To the left was the stairs to get to the open lawn part of the backyard and a rock pathway that led out to the back pond. To the right was the stairway to get to the pool and pool deck.

Ren took the stairway leading down the little garden path with the trees. At the end of it was a fountain. You took a left and climbed the small flight of stairs into the gazebo that overlooked the pond. It was such a beautiful, peaceful spot.

Ren leaned on the black rot iron railing facing the pond. “This was my grandmothers favorite place, she did so much of the garden work on the little path. She kept on changing it until she got it right. I remember working on it with her when I was little and she was watching me for the day. I keep it in shape or else she would scold me when she comes over.”

I laughed lightly “Well it’s absolutely amazing. You’re doing a great job.”

He turned and smiled and me. “Well I need to finish dinner, I’ll give you the rest of the tour after we eat.”

“Sounds good to me.”

We headed back into the house, Ren made his way into the kitchen and I pulled up a seat and the breakfast bar. We talked and laughed as Ren chopped, cooked and mixed various ingredients and soon the house smelled amazing. My stomach was growling with anticipation.

I was busy watching Ren dice up some vegetables when the front door opened. We both glanced over and my heart stopped, skipped then started beating out of control.

Chapter 4

Right now the sun is in your eyes
The moment has arrived, you see
Right now, there ain't no better time
I feel like you're alive to me

When you take me
When you take me
When you take me there
When you take me
When you take me
When you take me there

I felt like I had been drugged, I guess that’s what you get when you haven’t had a good sleep in a while. Sleeping on an airplane doesn’t count as sleep; it’s just a way to make the flight go by faster.

I rolled over and reached for my iPod on the nightstand, the time read 5:30am. I groaned and rolled over onto my back. I had slept for a solid 8 and a-half hours. That should be enough to get me through the day. I knew there was no way I would be falling asleep again. I climbed out of bed and stretched out my long limbs. Being 6’1 and traveling on airplanes for the majority of the day yesterday is not the most comfortable thing, even with Ren moving me up to first class.

I had a nice long, hot shower. I stood in the water for a lot longer than necessary because it felt so nice on my sore muscles. I grabbed a thick fluffy towel and wrapped it around me before using the other one to wrap around my hair. After moisturizing my body and drying and straightening my hair I went over to my suitcase to figure out what to wear. I decided jeans and my Oakley tank top along with my gladiators would do for the day. I grabbed my green sweater and through it in my purse just in case I got cold. I quickly did my makeup before heading downstairs to the kitchen.

I opened one of the floor-to-ceiling glass double doors to enter the kitchen to find Auntie Audrey sitting at the counter sipping a cup of coffee.

“Morning Sarah! How was your sleep?”

“Great actually. The bed is amazingly comfortable.”

“That is good! Depak called this morning, Him and the kids are very excited to see you when they get back from India in a few days.”

“I can’t wait to see them! Feels like forever since the last time.”

“It has been a long time. Help yourself to anything for breakfast I am just going to go have a quick shower then we should be ready to go when Ren gets here. What time did he say he was coming?”

“Around 10.”

“Perfect! Help yourself and think of some things you would like for yourself, we can pick them up today.”

“Okay thanks.”

I turned my attention to the fridge. I pulled out the milk, yogurt and an apple. After placing them on the counter I went to the pantry and pulled out the box of Cheerios that we had shipped over with my things.

Audrey was born in Canada after my dad’s parents migrated there from Germany. The two things she asks any of us to bring her when we come to visit is Heinz Ketchup and Cheerios since England has a cheap knockoff for Ketchup that is more like tomato juice and Cheerios are just not available here. Whenever Audrey comes to Canada, she will hit up an A&W ASAP for a Momma Burger.

I was rinsing off my dishes from breakfast when the gate alarm buzzed. I ran over to the monitor on the wall and say Ren peering into the camera. I buzzed the gate to let him in. I turned and placed my dishes in the dishwasher. Just as I placed the last one in the doorbell rang. I quickly shut the door and ran down the hall.

I pulled open the first door then opened the front door to see Ren standing there in all his glory. He flashed me a dazzling smile and opened up his arms

“Morning beautiful, miss me?”

I laughed and stepped into his arms. “Of course I missed you.” I inhaled deeply. “Wow you smell amazing.” His cologne smelled like a musky wooden scent, and to top that off he smelled of clean laundry.

Ren let out a deep laugh “Dolche & Gabbana. I do not believe in wearing any of those AXE products, more women are weak kneed by this cologne.”

“You couldn’t be more right. That smell is awful, reserved for little boys going through puberty.”

“Exactly, and I have already passed that stage of my adolescent life. Then again I never wore that stuff when I was that age.”

“And I am proud to call you my best friend because of that.”

Ren laughed and ruffled my hair as he released me from his arms. “You ready for today? Got caught up on some sleep and had a good breakfast for some serious shopping in the wilderness known as downtown London?”

“I’m sure with you and Audrey as my guide I will be golden.”

Audrey came down the stairs and grabbed her jacket out of the closet. “All set you guys?”

“Yep let’s head on out.” I told her before turning towards the door.

We headed out to the car and made our way downtown. We picked up all the necessary school supplies, groceries and my school uniforms. After grabbing some lunch we made our way back to the house and Ren helped me carry the purchases up to my room. I hung up my new uniforms and placed all the school supplies on my desk. I would deal with it later.

Ren’s phone went off, he pulled it out of his pocket and looked at the screen. “Dad says he’s pulling into the subdivision now. We should go meet him at the gate.”

“Alright sounds good.” I grabbed my jacket and purse off the bed and followed Ren downstairs. I stepped into the kitchen to let Audrey know we were leaving then I ran down the hall to see catch up to Ren at the front door. We made our way out to the gate just as Douglas was pulling up.

“Hello you two how was your shopping day?” Douglas asked as he backed out of the drive.

“Good, got everything I need. Ren didn’t show me any clothing stores yet which is probably a good thing because I will have no money left.”

Douglas chuckled. “I am sure he will get around for that, but first he will amaze you with his cooking abilities.”

Ren turned around in the front seat and smiled at me “Prepare to have your knickers knocked off.”

I laughed loudly “I think I am more excited for learning all the British slang.”

Chapter 3 and A/N

The worst is over and the sky is clear

And there's not a place on earth I'd rather be than here

But on the horizon

As the morning breaks

I can see a brand new day that's full of new mistakes

They tell me that only the strong survive

I don't know if we'll make it through the night

I guess I'll see you in the after light

They tell me that only the strong survive

Gotta keep on running

Stay on the attack

'Cause the day you quit's the day you wish you had it back

Douglas’s Mercedes glided smoothly through London in the direction of St. George’s Hill. It was hard to see some of the city because it was dark outside but London had a certain beauty to it when it was all lit up, almost magical in a way. I could not wait to get out and explore it.

This was by no means my first time to London. When I was 11 I had come here at the end of the school year for a two-week trip with my mom to see my Aunt, Uncle and cousins. Then again when I was 12, my mom, dad and I came here for a week on our way back home after spending 6 weeks in Africa. That seemed so long ago and even though I had seen a lot when I was here I still hadn’t discovered everything. Some of those things you can’t find when you are just visiting, you have to actually live in the city for a while to discover those little gems.

Sooner than I thought we were pulling up to the entrance of the St. George’s Hill gated community. Just saying this now, these houses are huge and the people who live here or have lived here are not short on money. For example, the house behind my aunt’s used to belong to John Lennon. Yeah, crazy I know.

Douglas pulled the car up to the gate and rolled down his window to speak to the security guard. A man in his 40’s came out of the booth and approached the car.

“Good evening sir, what is your business at St. George’s Hill?”

“We are delivering the Rai’s niece. We just picked her up from the Airport.” Douglas replied, rolling down my window in the process so the security guard could see me.

“Ahh, I remember Depak mentioning this to me. It is nice to meet you, what is your name?”

“Sarah” I replied with a smile “Nice to meet you too…” I squinted to try and read his nametag.

“Roger” he told me with a smile. “Well I hope to see you around. Enjoy your time in London.”

“Thanks.” I told him. I had a feeling I was going to really like Roger.

“Have a good evening folks.” He went back into the booth and opened the gate for us.

“Thank-you.” Douglas replied to him as he handed him a tip.

Roger smiled and waved as we drove up the street.

We drove up the tree-covered lane for about 15 minutes. Since it was dark you couldn’t see any of the houses, but even in daylight it was hard to see them because of the high fences and hedges for privacy. Douglas slowed the car and turned into the driveway of my Aunt and Uncle’s. Mary-Ellen got out and rang the intercom on the brick post. Through the rot iron gate you could see the housekeepers home. It was a one-bedroom room with a kitchen and living room. It was small, comfortable and cozy.

Mary-Ellen climbed back in the car as the gates started to open. Douglas slowly pulled the car up the drive and took a right then a left and there it was, my new home for the next year.

My aunt and uncle’s house was not just a house. It was a freaking mansion. It was 3 stories tall and white. It had a old Victorian look to it on the outside. On the inside, even though it was still quiet formal, it had been completely redone. I don’t mean like just renovating every room I mean Auntie Audrey gutted the entire house so that only the outside remained and rebuilt the entire thing. They even added on another 4000 sq. feet and a basement. Crazy? Yes.

I eagerly jumped out of the car and stared up at the massively gorgeous house. I still couldn’t believe I was actually here. Ren grabbed my suitcase out of the back and wheeled it to the front door before he could knock my Auntie Audrey opened the door.

“Sarah! Finally you are here!” She beamed at me before turning to Ren who was standing beside her with a bemused smile on his face. “Oh sorry Ren, I didn’t mean to just ignore you.”

Ren laughed, “It’s fine Mrs. Rai, I know I’m not as spectacular as Sarah and I just have to get used to it now that she is here.” He sent me a wink. I just laughed and shook my head as I made my way up the steps.

“Hi Auntie Audrey!” I gave her a big hug. “How are you? “

“Good, good and you? You must be tired from all that flying.”

I sighed and gave her a small smile, “Yeah I am.”

Ren snorted, “She slept the whole plan ride I don’t know why she would be tired.” I stuck my tongue out at him.

“Well, let’s get your stuff inside and get you settled in. All your stuff that you shipped over is in the laundry room.” Audrey ushered Ren and I inside before turning to greet Mary-Ellen and Douglas.

“I’ll bring this up to your room, it’s the one at the end of the third floor right?” Ren asked

“Yeah, just meet me in the laundry room then?”

“Yes mam.” Ren fake saluted then headed up the stairs with my bag. I rolled my eyes; he can be such a loser sometimes.

I made my way to the laundry room. Out of all the rooms in the house this one was one of my favorites. It was a completely different style of room than the rest of the house. The walls were bright fuchsia and orange. The cupboards were a royal blue. Auntie Audrey said that if she were to be in there doing laundry she wanted it to be a “fun” room. I found that ironic because they have someone to do laundry for them, but I do see the point of it.

Ren entered the laundry room and grabbed the nearest box.

“Alright let’s get this done.” He said as he turned to head back up the stairs to the top floor. I grabbed as much as I could and followed right behind him.

After hauling all of the boxes and other things upstairs, Ren and I both collapsed on the queen size sleigh bed.

“You know,” Ren said a little out of breath from hiking up two flights of stairs. “With all those renovations, you would think they would have installed an elevator.”

I let out a light laugh; I was also out of breath, more so than Ren. “That would have been a really good idea, I can’t imagine hauling furniture up here. I think I would have quit after one look at those stairs.”

I sat up slowly and looked around my new room. The walls were a baby blue colour and the furniture was a dark brown. It was a fairly decent size; the wall that was on the outside of the house was cut short by the slant in the roof, which had three skylights. In the corner on the opposite side was a dark wooden desk complete with a chair and light. The closet was quite spacious and there was a dresser beside it.

I got up and walked into the bathroom that was attached to my room. It was my favorite bathroom in the whole house because of the window. I climbed across the Jacuzzi tub and opened it. It faced the back yard and you could see for what seemed like the entire country of Britain. The roof slopped out below, I sat on the wide window ledge and planted my feet on the roof hugging my knees. There wasn’t a cloud in site and with the lack of light in this area you could see the stars.

“That window could be a real problem.”

I turned to see Ren leaning against the bathroom doorframe with one corner of his mouth turned up in the signature Winslade crooked smile, breaking hearts everywhere for eight generations.

I raised my eyebrows “And why is that?”

“You could fall out.” He stated simply.

I gave him an unimpressed look, “Or I could push you out of it.” I mumbled before turning back around to look at the stars again.

He laughed and climbed up on the windowsill to join me. We sat in comfortable silence for a few minutes, both of us enjoying Mother Nature’s twinkling lights.

“How are you doing?” Ren asked quietly, he turned his celery green eyes onto me.

I let out a little sigh and shrugged one shoulder. “I’m fine, well as good as you can be after traveling for a day.”

Ren didn’t buy it for a minute. “Alright pretty little liar, what is wrong?”

“I’m fine Ren.” My voice betrayed me and cracked as I said that.

Ren reached a long arm out and slowly pulled me into his side. I tucked my head into his shoulder. The tears escaped my eyes and slowly ran down my face. Ren didn’t even need to ask what was going on.

“Oh darling,” his accent suddenly sounded thicker, “It will all be okay. I know it is pretty overwhelming now that you are actually here but you will be fine. We’ll be fine is what I meant to say, your not going to be alone on this, I am going to be right here beside you the whole time. I promise.” He kissed my hair as he slowly rubbed hand with his thumb. I fought back the sobs so I could speak clearly.

“I know you will be there Ren and that everything will be alright. I guess that since I am actually here it has fully sunk in. This will be the longest time I have been away from my parents and I’m not even graduated yet, you expect this more when you go off to college but it came a little sooner for me. I will be fine I’m just freaking out a bit right now.” Reached up the wipe the tears from my eyes but Ren’s gentle fingers beat me to it.

“Sarah,” he spoke my name clearly and firmly, “The freaking out always comes first, but the sooner you move away from that the sooner you can enjoy your experience here. Freaking out leads to worrying and I do not want you to worry. You are going to have the time of your life and that is not just because you get to hang out with me for a whole year.”

I laughed which came out more as a gasp because of the crying. Ren smiled against my hair. “Just try to embrace the opportunity you have be given as soon as possible okay?”

I nodded slowly. Ren was such a good friend; he always knew how to cheer me up.

“I have got to get going though, will you be okay? I can stay if you want me too but I will either be wearing these gross airplane clothes tomorrow or rocking one of your outfits. I can assure you that neither one of those will be pretty.”

I laughed loudly, “I’ll be fine now, thanks though.”

Ren let go of me and climbed down into the bathtub, offering me his hand. I grabbed it and swung my legs around and jumped down too. When we were back in my bedroom he pulled me into his chest.

“Get a good sleep, you need to energy to go shopping tomorrow and you are coming over for dinner.”

“Will do Chef Winslade, am I allowed to know before hand what you will be serving?”

“No,” he grinned at me, “Because I haven’t even decided what I am making.”

“Well whatever it is I am sure it will be delicious.”

“Well obviously.” Ren joked. “Alright, I got to go mom and dad are probably thinking you tied me up or something. I’ll be over at 10 tomorrow okay?”

“Sounds good. Have a good sleep.”

“You too.” He hugged me tighter for a moment before turning and heading to the stairs.

I quickly found my pajamas and got ready for bed. I pulled back the thick comforter and passed out within 5 minutes of my head hitting the pillow.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsDw9QLwel0

Only The Strong Survive by: McFly

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A/N: Hello! Sorry that this took me a while, I was having major writers block and now I just want to write the whole story! I have more time this semester of school so I am hoping to be posting once a week. The lyrics at the beginning of each post belong to McFly. They are a British band that I have been in love with for a long time. One of there songs are also the title of this story. Anyways I hope you guys enjoy the story so far, It would be awesome if I could get some feedback. I appoligize if the story seems a little slow right now, I promise it will pick up more in the next chapter and much more after that, the beginning is to set up all the characters and the background story for Sarah. Please let other people know about this story!

Take Care! :)

Chapter 2

Tell me can you hear my voice

loud and clear above the noise

Even if I had the choice

I would not give up

I gradually felt my body waking up. I was stiff from sleeping in an airplane chair, even if it was in first class. I took a deep breath before sitting up and stretching.

“You’re actually awake? I was worried that you had died at one point, but then you started snoring.”

I turned to face Ren. “I do not snore.”

He laughed at my expression. “I’m kidding. You didn’t even talk, it was some what disappointing.”

“Well I only talk when I have been sleeping for a long time, not just a couple hours.”

Ren let out a snort of laughter.

“What?” I asked.

“Sarah, you have been asleep for more than a few hours.”

“What do you mean?”

He gave me a crooked smile. “We’re going to be landing in about 30 minutes.”

I stared blankly at him. “Ha ha good joke.”

“I’m not joking. You slept the entire plane ride. I would’ve drawn on your face but I didn’t have access to a marker.”

I rolled my eyes. “You wouldn’t of, even if you had a marker on you.”

“Oh, don’t underestimate me. I can be very unpredictable when it comes to my own sources of entertainment because my flying buddy has decided to pass out instead of keeping me company.”

I laughed at that. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t realize I was that tired! Normally, I can’t sleep on planes.”

“We’re you up late last night?”

“Yeah, I think I got about 45 minutes of sleep in total.”

“Well, there you go.” Ren smiled at me.

“I’m sorry that I wasn’t any fun on this flight.”

He laughed lightly as he put his arm around my shoulders. “It’s alright! I understand that you needed some sleep. You’re going to need your energy this week.”

“Yeah, that’s a given.”

“Ladies and Gentlemen, We are about 10 minutes from landing in Heathrow Airport. Please return to your seats and fasten your seat belts. Please put away all electronics and bags under your seat. Please put your chair to the upright position and stow your trays.”

Ren slipped his arm from around my shoulder to pack up his laptop and iPod.

“What were you typing?” I asked.

“Oh, just working on translating my sponsership essays into, French, Greek and Spanish.”

I just gawked at him. “Okay big deal.”

Ren just laughed.

We made our way out of the plane to the terminal. When we reached the exit, I froze. Ren stopped ahead of me. When he saw the look of panic on my face he closed the gap between us quickly, placing his hands on my shoulders. He looked right into my eyes, concern flooding through them.

“What’s wrong? It is a little bit late to run now Sarah.” His hands rubbed my upper arms.

“It’s just, I know I am going to lose you in this crowd. I mean look at this place! It’s like a heard of obsessed pre teen girls waiting to meet Justin Bieber.”

Ren threw his head back and laughed. I just stared at him, no amusement on my face. Ren pulled me into his arms, still laughing.

“Sarah, do you honestly think I am going to let go of you even once while we go through this crazy airport? Besides, you are with the best tour guide available to Heathrow Airport. I practically live here.” He let go of me and grabbed my left hand in his right. He turned and headed towards the crowd. I clamped my right hand around his right arm. “By the way, you have way to much free time if you are coming up with comparisions that involve Justin Bieber.”

We made our way to baggage claim, all the while I kept a death grip on his hand and arm. We reached the baggage area and pushed our way to the front of the crowd surrounding the convaier belt.

“I see your bag.” Ren let go of my hand to grab my bag and I quickly wrapped my hand around the handle on his backpack. He passed me my suitcase.

We waited for about 15 minutes, continuously searching the convaier belt for Ren’s suitcase.

“Just watch, my bag probably got lost.” Ren sighed in frustration.

“Don’t say that Ren! It was probably not on the first trolley. You probably just jinxed that now.”

Ren just rolled his eyes at me.

“Look, see there it is, right there.”

Ren reached forward and grabbed his bag and placed it beside mine. “Okay.” He pulled the handle up on his suitcase and then mine. “Let’s go and don’t you dare let go of me.”

I laced my fingers through his and let him pull me through the thick crowd. Ren guided me through the exit and down the roped off aisle that was lined with people eagerly searching for their loved ones.

“Do you see my parents anywhere?” Ren asked me as he scanned the crowd.

“You’re five inches taller than me, if you don’t see them then I definitely wont.”

Ren cracked a smile as he stopped on the other side of the crowd.

“There they are!” Ren exclaimed happily, he was on his tiptoes with his neck stretched up to see around the airport. He pointed towards the arrival lounge.

Ren grabbed his suitcase and headed in their direction. I literally had to run to keep up with his long, energetic stride.

“Mum! Dad!” Ren called as we moved around a small group of people.

Mary-Ellen and Douglas Winslade both turned and their faces lit up with warm, welcoming smiles.

Ren let go of my hand and dropped his suitcase as he wrapped his mom in a bear hug, swinging her around in his arms.

“Ren!” she laughed “put me down!”

Ren set her down, quickly kissing her cheek before he let go of her to embrace his father.

“Oh Sarah! We are so excited that you are here!” Mary-Ellen embraced me tightly.

“I’m excited to be here!” I told her earnestly as I returned her hug.

“Nice to see Ren got you here in one piece. Your uncle would have arrested him if he hadn’t.” Douglas smiled at me.

“I wouldn’t put that past him.” I laughed lightly as I reached my hand out to shake Douglas’s hand.

“None of that my dear, you are practically family.” Douglas chuckled as he pulled me into a hug.

“Well, we should get going before the traffic gets to awful.” Mary-Ellen said.

Ren and I grabbed out suitcases and followed Mary-Ellen and Douglas out to their car.

“Welcome to London.” Ren whispered in my ear as we exited the airport.

I smiled. Welcome to my new life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6DIA0d7PoI

Shine A Light by: McFly

Chapter 1

I wonder what it's like to fly so high
Or to breathe under the sea
I wonder if someday I'll be good with goodbyes
But I'll be okay if you come along with me

Such a long, long way to go
Where I'm going I don't know
I'm just following the road

For a walk in the sun

“Good Morning Ladies and Gentleman, this is your captain speaking. We are starting our decent into Calgary International Airport. We should be touching down in about 10 minutes. Please return to your seats and fasten your seat belts. Please put away all electronics and store all bags securely under your seat. Move your seat to an upright position and stow away your seat tray. Thank-you.”

The captain’s voice slowly pulled me out of my numb state. I had been staring out of the plane window the entire flight. Watching British Columbia disappear behind the Rocky Mountains which then opened up to Alberta.

This was by no means my final destination. Calgary was just a passing wave compared to where I am headed.

I am moving to London, England.

I blinked and shifted my gaze from the window to the bright pale green eyes of my best friend, Ren. He gave me an excited smile as he grabbed my hand and gave it a squeeze. I smiled back at him and he raised an eyebrow.

“You’re actually smiling? You’re not just putting on a fake smile, that’s an actual happy smile from you. May I ask what brought that on?” he asked in his smooth British accent.

“What? Am I not allowed to show that I am just happy to be here with you?”

“Of course you are! I just find it peculiar because you were having a fit of water works 2 hours ago.”

“Did you enjoy the crying? Because if you did, I can start up again.”

“No, no, no, keep the moisture to yourself please. I have an irrational fear of tears.”

“Sure…well you would be crying too if you had to say good-bye to family and friends when you’re not even going away for university where you can come back during breaks and holidays to visit. I am gone for a year! Plus I’m still in high school. Anyways, you will be balling like a baby when it’s your turn next year.”

Ren let out a short laugh. “Nah, I doubt that and besides mum and Dougie will make up for the tears I won’t be crying.”

I smiled as I rolled my eyes at him. This time next year, we would be doing the reverse trip. Ren would be coming to Prince George to go to school with me.

This all started after all the countless times I had complained to Ren over the phone about how horrible my school volleyball season was going to be. He then suggested that I come over and play for his school team. At first, I thought he was joking but as it turns out he was serious. Ren came up with this whole plan and organized pretty much everything.

I first met with the head coach, Joseph Stellar, and the assistant coach, Phil Stanford, at Nationals in Calgary. Then again when I was training on Team BC. They were both very impressed and asked me to join their team in England.

“Looks like we are about to land.” Ren said, gesturing towards the window.

I looked down and saw the ground getting closer. Next thing I knew, the wheels had touched down on the tar mach and we’re squealing to a stop. We made our way slowly down the runway before stopping at the terminal.

“Thank-you for flying with West Jet. If you are connecting to another flight we wish you the best in your travels. Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Calgary.”

Ren unbuckled his seat belt, grabbed his bag under his seat and stood up to let me out in front of him. I made my way down the aisle to the stairs that descended to the pavement. As I stepped onto the asphalt I heard a loud thump.

“Oh for the love of all that is holy.”

I turned around to see Ren at the top of the stairs, one hand supporting him self against the doorframe and the other pressed to his forehead. The stewardess was hovering behind him looking worried and trying not to laugh. I, on the other hand, burst out laughing. Ren descended the stairs towards me, still rubbing his forehead.

“Well, you sure know how to make a lasting impression.”

“Ahh, shut up Sarah.” Ren groaned, but a small smile was playing around the corners of his mouth. “ You shouldn’t be saying anything considering all your moments of glory in the absolutely no coordination department.” He teased.

I sent him a glare as I punched his shoulder. He just laughed.

We checked through security into the international flight area and found our way to our gate. I slumped into the seat immediately and sighed. Ren imitated me perfectly in the seat across from me. I raised an eyebrow at him and he smiled as he leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees.

“So, you’re not going to turn around and run for it? This may be your only chance.”

“No, no running.” I sighed and gave a slight smile. “Although, you’re making it sound as if you want me to run away from you?”

He raised an eyebrow and smirked. “ It wouldn’t do you any good anyways. I would just chase you down, pick you up and drag you back here kicking and screaming onto the plane. If that didn’t work I would just lock you in the bathroom on the plane.” He grinned evilly at me.

I just rolled my eyes at him, my typical response to his teasing. “You know, normally I would say I would love to see you try, but I know that you would actually do that.”

He laughed. “You know me too well. I can’t even threaten you with that.”

I grinned. “I’m going to hit up Tim Hortons since this will be my last chance for a while, do you want anything?”

“Yes, can you get me a hot chocolate please.”

“Sure, anything else?”

“No that’s all, thanks.”

“Alright, be back in a bit.”

“Welcome to Tim Hortons, how can I help you?”

“Hi, Can I please get one large hot chocolate, one large Ice Capp made with chocolate milk, two vanilla dip doughnuts and two chicken ceaser snack wraps with no tomatoes.”

“Okay, anything else?”

“No, that’s everything thanks.”

“Alright that will be $11.32 please.”

I paid the cashier and collected my order. As I got closer to where Ren was sitting, I noticed a group of girls, a little bit younger than me, staring at Ren and giggling. I also saw some other women taking double takes at him as they walked by. I know why. I’m not blind.

Ren stood at 6’6 and had a display of muscle tone that could drive any woman crazy. His skin was bronze from spending the summer at his family’s vacation home in the Bahamas. His eyes, a soft lime green shade, sparkled in the light. His facial features we’re defined and he had s strong square jaw. What really made his look more unique, was his unusual hair. It came just to the tip if his ears and he could pull off the bed head look with no effort what so ever. His hair was mainly a pale blonde, but throughout it were streaks of chestnut and dark chocolate brown. To make it unique, it was all-natural. He had never died his hair it just grew like that. Just like the rest of his family, he was gorgeous.

But in all of his glory, I had never been physically attracted to Ren. Sure, I think he is insanely good looking but we have never been more than best friends. I know that is the same for him. I love him like a brother and I would do anything for him.

“Whoa, looks like you got more than just that hot chocolate for me.” Ren laughed as he pulled out the ear buds of his headphones out.

“Yeah, I figured you would like a snack.” I handed him a doughnut and his hot chocolate. “You’ve never been a coffee drinker have you?”

He shook his head. “Never liked the stuff. It has its use for certain things, like flavor. My family doesn’t drink it much either.”

“Hmm.” I said, taking a sip of my ice capp.

We spent our time waiting for the plane just talking and playing some stupid games on Ren’s iPod touch. Before I could really register how fast the time had passed we were collecting our bags to bored British Airways.

“Here’s your ticket.” Ren pulled a British Airways Ticket voucher out of his bag and handed it to me.

“Thanks.” I opened it and did a double take. “Ugh Ren?”

“Yeah?”

“Why does it say first class on it? My dad didn’t buy me a first class ticket.”

“Oh I know, but since I automatically got moved into first class, I moved you up there with me.”

I just stared at him.

“You can thank me later.” He chuckled as he put his arm around my shoulders.

“I hate when you do that.” I grumbled.

“Do what?”

“Spend money like that on me, you know I get uncomfortable when people buy me stuff like that. Now I feel like I owe you big time.”

He shook his head. “You are coming to England, that is payment enough. Heck nothing you could try to do would be better. Look just think of it as a welcome gift from me.”

I stared at him before letting out a defeated sigh. “Alright, alright but no more things like that.”

“Deal.”

“Hello everyone can we have all our Executive members come forward for early boarding now please.”

“That’s us, let’s go.” Ren guided me forward to the line up. We had our passports checked and we made our way to our seats. As soon as I sat down I forgave him a little bit for the seat change.

“Okay the extra leg room is really nice.” I smiled, content.

Ren laughed. “I knew you would appreciate it.”

We sat for about 30 more minutes before the plane started to pull out of the terminal. When we reached the end of the runway Ren took my hand.

“If you are unsure I can always stop the plane now.”

I laughed. “No that’s okay. It will all be fine.”

Ren smiled at me. “Yes it will. I promise.” He kissed my hair.

The plane accelerated down the runway and soon we were up in the air. I watched the ground become smaller and smaller until we were flying above the clouds. I leaned my head back against Ren’s shoulder, still clutching his hand I drifted off to sleep.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnHU0NEuTHM

Walk In The Sun by: McFly