Written by Lois Terrans Bradbury

Copyright 17/01/2009

The sting that cut across her face as his hand connected with her cheek was the last straw. No more excuses, no more giving him a second chance. The last ounce of love that she had felt for him evaporated as he swung to hit her again.

Cornered, her options were limited and the force of his second hit was much more powerful than the first. So much so that it swung her around and she had to hold onto the edge of the kitchen sink to stop herself from falling.  Through the tears of pain and anger she saw it, sitting in the sink. Wrapping her hands around the handle she pulled the frying pan up as she swung back around to face him. The malevolent, smug look on his face soon disappeared as the pan connected with the side of his head and he fell to the floor unconscious.

For a few moments Veny stood looking down at him, trembling, wondering just how much damage she had caused. Had she killed him? Wanting to get closer but afraid he may just be playing possum she pushed him with her foot, nothing. Gaining courage she bent lower and it was then that she could see that he was breathing. Satisfied she dropped the frying pan next to him. Stepped over him and never looked back.

Veny took a look at herself in the hallway mirror near the front door. Her eyes were swollen and she knew from past experience that she would need to wear sunglasses while she waited for the bruising to disappear. She watched her image darken as she put her sunglasses on and adjusted the bag she had slung over her shoulder; it was only when she stepped over the threshold and onto the street that she let the tears fall.

She was still crying when she knocked on the door to her friend’s apartment. Waiting for Terry to open the door knowing exactly what would happen, it was not the first time she had turned up after he had hit her, however in her heart she knew this time was different….She would not be going back.

Terry did open the door but the smile left her face as soon as she saw Veny.  “Shit Veny when the hell are you going to leave that creep.!!!!”

Veny just let herself be dragged into the apartment and into Terry’s arms for a hug. “I swear someone needs to cut his nuts off and feed em to him until he chokes.”

Terry’s words brought a slight smile to Veny’s face. Terry had never liked him from the very start, had told Veny in her usual blunt way and told him as well. It would be Terry and his first, last and only meeting.

Terry held Veny at arms length, and then took off her glasses. “Oh baby, why do you let him do this to you?”

In a weak voice Veny replied. “Not any more. Can I stay for a while until I find a place of my own?”

“Sure you can.” Terry’s expression changed. “Damn….. I have a friend coming to stay. I’ve got the room but he will be here tonight.  Are you going to be okay with that? I mean you’ll have your own rooms but …”

Veny touched Terry’s hand softly. “Yeah, he’s not the one who did this and besides I figure if you are letting him stay he can’t be all that bad.”

“Got that right… So do I need to make some calls and sort out that miscreant that called himself your boyfriend?”

“No, I think I gave him a headache.”

Terry looked at her friend puzzled.

“I hit him with a frying pan. Left him passed out on the kitchen floor.”

Terry was quiet for a few seconds then pulled Veny back into a hug. “Brilliant just brilliant.” She pushed her back a little so she had her at arms length again. “Now, do you want a cup of tea, or a stiff drink?”

Veny wiped the moistness from her cheeks. “Would you mind if I had a shower. I feel like I need to wash him off me.”

A very dark shadow crossed Terry’s face; the anger was evident in her voice. “He didn’t….”

Veny shook her head. “No Nooooo.. I just need to feel clean, rid of him.”

Terry smiled. “You do that. I’ll stick your stuff in your room.”

Terry watched Veny walk down the hall and into the bathroom before she did the same to put her bag in the bedroom. Just as she was about to step out of the lounge room she turned her head slightly sure that she had heard something behind her. But when she looked there was nothing, the room was empty. Terry closed her eyes and listened intently, taking a deep breath, there was that smell, a sweet yet not so sweet smell that brought a smile to her face. Terry came to her senses, shaking her head. “Jeez… Get a grip kiddo. It’s just Veny’s perfume. The same one she has been using for years.”

Standing in the corner of the room next to the front door, sensed by Terry but unseen was not one but two angels. Much the same way that Veny had wiped the tears from her own face one was doing the same. His partner standing with a comforting hand on his shoulder as they both watched her walk down the hall.  “See, Gavreel my friend she is safe at last.”

“But he hurt her so much this time Tabris. I should have been there. I was not there to protect her like I promised. I know I cannot stop all the damage but at least I can shelter her, protect her from some of the blows he inflicts on her.”

“I know you cannot see it now Gavreel but there is a positive to all this. She is leaving him and you did get to her in time to suggest she picked up the frying pan and not the knife. This could have been so much worse for her if she had killed him.”

"Tabris I have to let her know I am still here for her. Let her know it was not my idea to leave her. I promised to look after her until she found true happiness and I have let her down. I have to make her feel better. ”

Tabris’ wings ruffled just a little as they both watched Terry go into the kitchen and put the kettle on and he gave his friend a stern look. “Do not do it. You know this is forbidden, you cannot make contact.”

Gavreel turned; looking Tabris squarely in the eyes, his resolve set and Tabris shuddered as he saw the tears escape down his friends face understanding that nothing he could say would deter him from actions that could have extreme consequences. “If you do this, I…None of us can help you. You understand this Gavreel? Do you really understand what could happen to you?”

Gavreel took a deep breath, stood to his full angelic height, pushed his shoulders back, unfolded his wings to their full length seeming to take up most of the room. “I do my friend and if I can give her the happiness she deserves…. she needs, for but a moment it would be worth an eternity of exile.” A small shadow washed over his face. “Can you not hear her cries Tabris? Tonight tears carve unseen scars down her face but she has been silently crying for so many years her heart is all but consumed by the scars left by hurt and pain.”

“I understand Gavreel but they are human, they are very strong we know this. You know this. I think you are too sensitive when it comes to your charges Gavreel. This has been your undoing in the past and I fear that Veny will be a danger to you.”

It was time for Gavreel to place a reassuring hand on Tabris’ shoulder as he smiled at his friend. “Not a danger Tabris, a passion. What ever she needs, who ever she needs me to be I shall be that for her. I love her.”

Tabris could only watch in silence as Gavreel shimmered his wings and disappeared. “She needs you to be her angel Gavreel remember that.” Tabris checked on Terry watching her make tea. Next he went to see how Veny was doing.

Veny stood in the bathroom looking at herself through the steamed up mirror, eyes still red, puffy and blood shot from the crying, swollen and dark from the abuse that had been inflicted on her. While he looked on her in that instant Tabris understood why his friend was willing to risk his own existence for his charge.  She was breathtaking, a gentle beautiful soul that should  be held in your hand, caressed, encircled with your love. Tabris ruffled his feathers to shake the feeling from him. He was startled to hear Veny Speak.

“Is that you my sweet G Man. Come to make sure that I am alright?”

Tabris was stunned. Veny was looking through the mirror but if he had been visible to her she would have been looking straight into his eyes. Yes, he understood that humans had a connection with his kind, they always had and each angel could hear his own charge as they called for help or guidance, knew their thoughts, their dreams. He understood that many felt their Guardian Angels presence and a few were so sensitive that they felt much more. He was not surprised that Veny had used her name for Gavreel. Many an angel had told their charges what to call them. Some of the outcomes had been amusing. His own charge for example called him Tabby or Tabby cat. Angels could guide, place thoughts but it was up to their charges to take hold of those thoughts and Veny’s thoughts had led her to calling her angel G Man.

Veny was still talking. “He hurt me really bad this time G Man, I am sorry if he hurt you so much as well.”

Tabris was overcome; she was more worried about Gavreel than herself. Against his better judgement he stepped closer, ran his hand gently across her shoulders. “He is well little one.”

Veny sighed, closing her eyes. “Stay with me G Man.”

What she said made Tabris step back and then leave the room. “That is what I am afraid of little one. You have cast your spell.”

There was a gentle knock on the bathroom door. “You okay Veny? I made some tea.”

“I’ll be out in a minute.”

As she walked back down the hall Terry muttered to herself. “Tabby cat you think you could pop over to Veny’s place and teach that scum bag, low life, good for nothing son of …..”

Tabris shouted at her. “Terry your language!!!!”

Terry kept talking but did not continue to swear. “Well you get the idea Tabby. I can survive a little while without you.”

Tabris disappeared and Terry once again looked around thinking she had heard something.

Veny and Terry sat on the sofa for sometime talking about many other things when Veny broached the subject of the other house guest who had yet to arrive. “It’s okay Terry, if I really feel I cannot stay I’ll go to a hotel.”

“You will do no such thing, he can, he’s used to it. It’s just that when he is in town we like to catch up and he spends so much time in hotels it makes a nice change for him.”

Veny saw the look on Terry’s face. “And for you as well right?”

Terry blushed. “What can I say. If I could just get him to stay in one place long enough we could be more than ships that pass in the night.”

“Have you never thought of going with him? I mean if he is on the road so much…”

Terry laughed. “Be a kept woman…Yeah I can just see that. Besides I think he likes things the way they are.”

Not wanting to push the issue Veny asked a general question. “So what does he do?”

“Do…mmmm he is a technician in the music industry. Travels with groups setting up venues, that sort of thing. Calls himself a well paid roadie.”

“And he is in town with some group.”

Terry put up her hand. “Before you ask me who…. I have no idea.”

As if on cue Terry’s mobile phone chimed in her pocket, looking at the number she frowned a little. “Its work.” She got up, walking into the kitchen to take the call. When she return Veny could see the frown had grown. “ Shit…. First day I have had off in twelve……..” She didn’t finish the rest of her statement. “Sorry Veny. I have to go into work for a bit. You be okay?”

“Sure. I’ll just get on your email and invite all your friends over for a party while you are gone.”

Both women laughed but as soon as Terry left Veny felt a little awkward, lonely, so she did fire up the computer but not to wreak havoc on Terry’s email just to troll through some of her favourite websites. Not something she got to such a lot of these days. It was nice just to be able to go and explore without looking over her shoulder or being sniggered at. Her travels were interrupted by the sound of the doorbell.

Opening the door the first words out of her mouth made him smile. “Holy heaven you are a tall one. Terry never mentioned that about you.”

His smile disappeared, replaced by confusion all of which was noticed by Veny. “I’m sorry, that was rude of me. You just startled me a little. Terry was expecting you. Please come in.”

Gavreel stepped over the threshold and into the apartment. “I am pleased to come in but I do not think that Terry was expecting me.”

“Sure she was, said you would be in town for a little while.”

As Veny watched Gavreel shake his head the panic started to swell in her chest and take over her entire body. She had let a stranger into the apartment. A BIG, tall, very strong stranger.

Gavreel saw her panic and stepped closer, which only made her step back and begin to tremble. She only panicked more when he spoke her name. “Veny, do you not know me?”

Veny shook her head as the tears began to flow.

“Veny. Please do not be afraid I only want to make you feel better. Please ...”

As he stepped closer Veny closed her eyes. Taking a deep breath, waiting to be attacked. In the silence she found something familiar, a smell. Still with her eyes closed she took another breath and there it was the sweet but not sweet smell. Like sandalwood and caramel. Opening her eyes she found that Gavreel had retreated a few steps but was still watching her. “Search your memory Veny, You know me to be a friend. I only want to heal your wounds, show you that you are deserving of love.”

Gavreel gave her the time to steady herself and her thoughts but her voice was a little shaky and only a whisper as she spoke. “Who are you? I feel like I should know you but…”

Gavreel stepped a little closer and took her hands in his, immediately Veny felt a warmth surge through her body the likes of which she had never felt before. She could not explain it but she felt safe, protected. “I only wish the best for you Veny.”

As Veny stared into his eyes wondering how this stranger could make her feel this way Gavreel began to unfold his wings. Veny gasped, stepping back and putting her hand over her mouth as the realisation of what he was struck her. “You’re and angel, a real angel.”

Gavreel bowed. “I am your angel Veny. I am sorry that I could not stop the hurt. I promise that I did everything that was allowed.”

Veny really did not hear most of what he had said she just kept staring at him. “You are my angel?”

Again Gavreel bowed then gently touched her check just below her eyes. Veny’s hand followed behind, as she felt that same warmth tingle through her skin. The pain and ache she had been carrying since the attack had gone. “I only want to make you feel better.”

Ever so gently he touched her other cheek. This time Veny closed her eyes trying to absorb all the feelings that were traversing through her. When she opened them she found that she was holding his hand in both of hers. Looking up into his eyes she understood who he really was. His name washed over her lips. “G Man?”

Once again Gavreel bowed.

Veny began to cry, she really was safe. Gavreel pulled her to him, folding his wings around her as they stood in the middle of the room. Veny had no idea how long she had stood wrapped up in his wings, it felt like hours but in fact it was only a few moments. When finally they did uncurl from each other all her pain was gone, her ribs had healed. Every bruise that had threatened to blacken her skin had disappeared. Even the pain that had been crushing her heart was gone.  Veny stroked her hand tenderly across his cheek and this time it was Gavreel that closed his eyes and sighed. “How did you do that G Man? How is it possible I can see you? You are real.”

Veny gasped as she saw a tear escape. “I wanted to make you feel better. I was not there to protect you. I…..”

Veny did something that surprised them both. First she brushed away his tears and then she stood on her tiptoes and kissed him. Gavreel could have stayed standing and she would not have been able to reach but he didn’t, he bent over and took her lips to his.

Veny’s knees buckled as the surge of energy passed through her like nothing she had ever felt before.

Feeling her wobble Gavreel scooped her up in his arms and she immediately folded her own arms around his neck. He could sense all the thoughts rushing through her mind; feel all her emotions as she tried to keep some control over them. “Do not worry what you think Veny. It is not wrong for you to want to be loved by someone who will love you in a way that would make you feel complete instead of afraid.  If you want you can make me look like someone you like, you trust. I know of your dreams Veny. I would be honoured if you would allow me to be part of those dreams.”

Veny blushed at the thought that anyone else, even her angel would know of her dreams. “All of them G Man?” The look on his face told her he knew everything. “And I can make you look like anyone I want? Have any dream I want?”

Gavreel nodded in silence as he felt his features change as Veny chose the person she wanted to see. Again her hand covered her mouth to stop a cry. She was looking into the face of the one man she thought of as kind and sweet. It was not Gavreel’s name that washed over her lips this time, it was his. “Ury.”

Gavreel smiled. “You have chosen well he is a thoughtful, sensitive man.”

Veny was a little surprised. “You know him.”

“Once I knew he consumed most of your dreams I made it a point to seek him out and make sure he was worthy of so much of your adoration.”

Now Veny was very nervous. “And…..”

“He is most worthy.”

Veny smiled and rested her head on Gavreel’s chest, in return Gavreel allowed himself the luxury of running his hand through her hair. He stopped when he felt his features start to change again, maybe he had been wrong and there was another she would rather be with. At her words, for the first time since he had been created Gavreel was unsure of what to do. “But this is not real. I am in the arms of my angel, you are not him.” Veny looked back into the face of her angel no longer the face of the man that lived in her dreams. “He maybe a real person Gee, and I may have had dreams and fantasies about him but that is all they where, foolish fantasies to help me through the dark.”

Gavreel went to speak but she stopped him by kissing him before she continued. “I would rather spend this short time in your arms knowing it was real than trying to live out a dream only to know deep in my heart that is was not.”

“But I thought by helping you have your dream this would make you happy. Make you feel better.”

Again Veny ran her hand tenderly across his cheek. “If you know my dreams as you say you do then you know deep down what I really want.”

“And you want me …….You want me to be that… to do that….. As myself?”

Veny smiled at him in such a way Gavreel thought his knees would buckle. “Yes…. I have never in my life felt this safe, this loved and all you have done is hold me. I want to feel that love as man and women.” It was then that a horrible thought struck her. “You can to this right. It is allowed?”

For the first time in his existence Gavreel lied. “Yes…. If this is what you so desire, it is allowed.”

Veny smiled and lent back in to kiss him once more but her kiss was full of a passion that he had not expected. As their lips parted Veny touched her forehead to his and asked him something that almost broke his heart. “Teach me how not to be afraid to be with a man.”

Gavreel pulled her closer and wrapped his wings around her as tight as he could.

Veny felt like she was being bathed in gentle sunlight, she simply relaxed into his arms as he carried her to where she did not know and did not care.

When Gavreel finally unfurled his wings and placed her gently on the floor they were no longer in Terry’s apartment. They were in a room that  bathed in that same sunlight she had felt, strange yet  familiar, she smiled as her eyes took it all in. Gavreel had given her a room from her dreams, a place she felt safe yet it was different somehow. “You made this for me?”

He took her hand and gently guided her to the bed. “For us.”

Veny had expected to feel nervous, even afraid and Gavreel caught her thoughts. “We do not have to do this. I can take you back.”

Veny shook her head and squeezed his hand. “NO…back is not a place I want to go. You understand?”

Gavreel gave her a small bow and unfurled his wings to their full extent, which brought a smile to her face, and Veny giggled with the thought that raced through her mind so fast that Gavreel did not sense it before she spoke it. “My you are a big one aren’t you.”

It was his turn to laugh. Making his wings ruffle as he did.

Veny was overcome. To hear an angel laugh, truly laugh was overwhelming.

As Gavreel brought his hands down to rest softly on her shoulders his wings receded. In silence they stepped a little closer to each other and once more their lips touched but this time they did not part.  As they kissed Gavreel gently ran his hands through her hair and down her back.  In return Veny had begun to run her hands down his arms and had not realised that she was now weaving the feathers of his wings through her fingers. She heard him groan which was the only reason she pulled away from his kiss. “I have hurt you?”

Gavreel took a breath and whispered in her ear as he pulled their bodies closer so they touched. “No my sweet just the opposite.”

 Gavreel gathered her up, carrying her the few steps to the bed. His lips did not leave the nape of her neck as she felt herself being lowered on to the most luxuriously comfortable bed she had ever encountered.

For a moment Gavreel hovered over her, actually hovered, no part of him touched the bed or her. Only his hand touched her as it glided down her middle until he could run tender circles around her belly button with his fingers watching her stomach spasm as he did.

Veny wrapped her arms around him. Entwining her fingers through his feathers and once more making him groan as he lowered himself onto her, taking her mouth to his.

Gently Veny broke their kiss. ” I need to feel you. Body to body, no barriers.”

Gavreel kissed her softly on the tip of her nose. “As you wish.”  With the gentle ease of a master craftsman Gavreel made love with her. 

Gavreel smiled looking down into her face. A face that showed him that she was not afraid to be with him, not afraid to be loved at least by him, showed him that she had entered that place that had been so far out of reach for her before and he was happy for her. He drew little patterns on her stomach with his fingers as he gazed upon her face and waited for her to come back to him. He was not going to make her rush this journey, it was hers to take. Gavreel was just happy he had been able to travel some of it with her, made it possible.

Veny mumbled and he had to strain to hear what she said. “Gavreel, your name is Gavreel.”

Gavreel stopped his fingers travel across her stomach and just looked at her. She had yet to open her eyes but he could see the tiniest of tears escape from them. “You give up so much to be with me.”

Gavreel was not sure if it was the shock of her words but his wings began to fold, resting once again on his back. “How do you know this Veny?”

“Because you and I became one for a moment.” Veny opened her eyes letting her tears spill onto her face. “This was not allowed Gee. You gave up your life for a moment in time.”

Gavreel ran his fingers through her hair and lent in to kiss her. He could still taste the blood from the cut on her lip so he touched it gently with his finger and healed her. “I gave up nothing. I gained so much. I gained a moment in time with you, to feel what real love is. To be able to touch you as man and women not as charge and angel.”

Veny pulled him closer; she could smell his unique scent. “Hold me Gavreel. Hold me. I know that when you leave this time they will forbid us to be together.”

Gavreel lay behind her, gathering her into his arms and Veny held onto her angel.

“I promise I will find a way to get back to you Veny. I promise.”

And Gavreel’s tears fell. 

The angel and his human lover lay cocooned together, wrapped in his wings not wanting to part, both knowing they would have to.

 Veny woke to find herself back in Terry’s apartment, for a moment she sighed and smiled expecting to find Gavreel’s arms still folded around her. However, she was alone, curling herself up into a tight ball she cried, not for self but for Gavreel. “I will always love you my sweet angel, take my love wherever they send you, and find a way home.”

Veny cried herself to sleep.

Gavreel stood in the corner of her room letting his own tears cascade, only wanting to touch her one more time, to kiss her good bye but Tabris’ hand on his shoulder told him he was already a prisoner of his actions.

“We must leave my friend the tribunal awaits.”

Terry arrived home to find Ray waiting at her door. “Hey, you just get here?”

Ray nodded and lent in to give her a kiss as she got closer. “Yeah. After your text I figured I would hang with the guys for a while, wait for you to finish. Didn’t want to scare your friend. I can still go to a hotel.”

Terry shook her head as she let them into her apartment. “No you don’t.” putting on a playful pout. “Unless you don’t want to be with me.”

Ray pulled her into his arms and kissed her with passion and force, shutting the door on the world as he pushed Terry into it.

Terry took a breath as she broke their connections. “Well I guess I got my answer. Just let me go and check on Veny.”

Ray threw his bag on the sofa, his identification tag hanging from the side pocket… OSMOSIS:  staff pass: Full access: He watched her walk down the hall. He had missed her so much. One of these days he was going to get the courage to ask her to be more than just his friend.

Terry walked back into the lounge and took him by the hand. “She’s out for the count. I think she may have taken a sleeping pill.”

Terry and Ray were enjoying coffee in the kitchen when Veny joined them the next morning. Terry was surprised to see that her bruises had disappeared, no black eyes. Ray stood as Veny walked in and Terry introduced them.

Terry handed Veny a coffee as they all sat around the kitchen bench. “You feeling better this morning Veny?”

Veny nodded. She did feel better but not for any reason she could tell them so she changed the topic, deflected. “Better thanks. So Ray you in town with some mega rock group?”

Ray laughed. “Not exactly. Mega and a group but not rock. Well at least not so far.”

Terry and Veny looked at each other then back at Ray who in turn looked to Terry.

“Remember last time we talked I told you I got hired to look after a group called OSMOSIS.”

At the mention of the name the cheekiest, biggest smile cut across Terry’s face and Veny bowed her head feeling the warmth in her cheeks as she blushed knowing what her friend was going to do. Embarrass her.

“You are kidding right Ray? I mean..... Have you any idea who you are sitting next to?”

Now it was Rays turn to look confused waiting for Terry to enlighten him. “Only their biggest fan.”

Ray shot a look to Veny but she refused to lift her head and Terry continued with her torment. “I swear she listens to nothing else. Go on ask her anything about them I bet she can tell you.”

Even from where he was sitting Ray could tell Veny was uncomfortable. “I am sure she could.” He surprised them both with his next statement. “So, Veny. I can’t get you tickets to their concert.”

Veny finally raised her head. “Oh that is okay. I have my own thank you.”

Ray smiled back at her. “Yeah I guess being a fan you would have had your ticket a while. What I was going to say was if you are free I would be happy for you to tag along with me today.”

It had been the first time that Terry and seen Veny so happy. “Really?”

Ray put up his hand. “But be warned I cannot guarantee any Osmosis spotting.”

Veny laughed. “That’s okay It would just be nice to do something different today. Stop me from moping since I have two days off before I go back to work.”

Terry smirked “Oh I see how it is. Have your way with me and then leave with the first gal that comes along.”

Ray was going to tell Terry to stop teasing but did not get the chance.

“Oh I’m sorry Terry, you two had plans for the day.” Veny dropped her head again.

“No silly. I have to work and besides I think he needs to recharge after last night.”

Both Ray and Veny shouted at Terry, which only made her laugh.

Ray touched Veny gently on the hand and Terry thought it interesting that she did not flinch. “So you interested on a behind the scene tour?”

Veny smiled. “Very much. Can I bring my camera?”

Everyone laughed and Tabris smiled approvingly from his vantage point in the corner. He had been given Veny as a temporary appointment considering her closeness to his own charge and his friendship with Gavreel but he had been given strict instructions not to tell his friend anything. This was forbidden. As yet there was still hope for his friend, Gavreel had been reassigned, not as a guardian angel but as a warrior.

Tabris made his exit just as Veny was about to leave the kitchen to get ready, she stopped and turned, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.

“Veny, you okay?”

“I thought….Yeah I am okay. Be back in five Ray.”

Ray looked to Terry a little concerned. “She okay?”

Terry just shrugged her shoulders.

Veny was not sure what she expected a behind the scene tour to look like but she was amazed at the work that was being carried on. She knew the venue well. Atlantis Arena. It was the biggest entertainment centre in the state, used for just about every conceivable production and in a few days it would be her turn to sit and watch Osmosis. At the moment though she had to wonder how they would get it all together in time. Ray must have seen her expression answering her question. “It may look like organised chaos at the moment but trust me in forty eight hours you won’t recognise the place.”

Veny took a couple of quick shots of the people working to bring it all together. “And you guys got in last night right?”

Ray nodded.

“And after the last concert?”

“We stay back and pull it all down. So by the time you get home and are comfy snug in your bed we are madly deconstructing what you see us constructing now.”

Ray introduces her to some more of the team as he showed her around, even allowing her to have a quick look into the dressing rooms. Each room had the names of Osmosis already on them so Veny took a photo. As she turned around she caught Ray smiling at her. “Okay I know it is ridiculous but gives us gals something to talk about besides make up and shoes.”

Ray laughed and took the camera from her. “Well how about I take a few shots of you so  you can prove that you were here?”

Veny was going to protest but Ray had already backed her up against the first door. Simon’s then David’s, then Cassey’s and finally Ury’s door. After he had taken the last photo Veny ran her fingers across Ury’s name and sighed just a little.

“Oh so you have a soft spot for Ury I see. He will be pleased.”

Veny blushed and Ray laughed giving her back her camera. “It’s okay, he won’t hear it from me.”

Just then someone at the other end of the hall shouted at Ray as he approached the two men talked business. Although she did not understand what they were saying, she could tell by Ray’s body language that something was not right. “Damn it. Okay Mike thanks I’ll sort it out.”

Mike left and it seemed to Veny that Ray had forgotten she was with him. “I can find my own way out Ray.”

He looked at her for a few second as he absorbed her words. “What?...No, no. You don’t have to leave. It’s just that this might take me a while and I will be up there.” He pointed to the ceiling. It was crisscrossed with walkways, lights, and cables. “You can come half way with me, there is a technician’s booth, but I can’t let you past that. And it is a hell of a hike up those stairs.”

“I’m part mountain goat does that help?”

Ray laughed. “Terry said I would like you. You sure you are not bored?”

“Very sure, this is all so interesting. I am sure I can find something in the booth to keep me occupied for an hour.” She saw the serious look cross his face and could not contain her impish smile. “I promise I will not touch anything. Lurkers honour.”

Again Ray laughed. “Come on then, the entrance is just down here.”

Just as they got to the entrance a massive mountain of human arms and legs crashed into Veny with such force it sent her sliding across the floor only coming to rest when she hit her head on the opposite wall. Her hands flew to the back of her head. “Shit!!!!!”

Ray slid to her on his knees. “You alright Veny?”

She was not happy. “No I am not. I just got hit by a bloody truck.!!!”

Before she could say anymore, Ray’s attention was now on the person who had caused the accident. The impact with Veny had been so sudden it had knocked him off balance and he was sitting on the stairs. “Jeez Danny where the hell is the fire.!!!! You could have hurt someone!!!!”

Veny had not looked up; she was still holding the back of her head with both hands.

 “He did hurt someone. Idiot!!!! Oh I am so going to have a lump.”

Only when she heard the stranger’s voice did Veny look to see who it was.

“Ray, I’m sorry. I was…. I mean.. I……oh shit.”

Danny looked from Ray to Veny, reaching them both in two long strides and helped Ray get Veny back on her feet. “I’m so, so sorry. Is anything broken?”

There was silence as Veny looked up into the face of a Osmosis member, a real live Ossy as their fans called them. She tried to say something but her voice had gone into hiding. All of a sudden, she did not feel so well, her legs began to shake and things got a little blurry. The last thing she remembered was Danny asking her if she was okay before losing consciousness and falling into Danny’s arms.

“Bloody hell Danny!!!! Now look what you did.”

Danny was about to give back as good as he got when he saw Veny’s palms. He adjusted Veny’s weight as he began to carry her down the hall. “She’s got blood on her hands; we need to get her seen to.”

Ray raced passed Danny as he dialled his mobile. There was a sick bay in the arena but he had a horrible feeling they were going to need more than a nurse. “Terry’s going to kill me.”

Ray held the door open and Danny rushed in surprising the nurse and placed Veny on one of the four beds in the room. “She hit her head, there’s blood and she fainted.” Danny just stood next to the bed looking down at Veny. The nurse had to ask him twice to move so she could get a better look. The nurse checked her over to satisfy herself she could move her head and check the wound without causing more damage. “This is not going to need stitches but I think she should go to the hospital for some observation considering she passed out and hasn’t come too as yet.” She ushered Danny out of the room so he was now standing next to Ray. “Shoo, you can come in later.” She left both men staring at a closed door.

“The paramedics are on the way. Look Danny, if you guys want the show to start on time I have to go. Stay with her. I want reports.” Ray started to rush back down the hall bringing up Terry’s number on his phone. This was one call he really did not want to make.

Danny paced very nervously in the waiting room of City Hospital wondering what kind of report he would have to give back to Ray. His own stomach in knots at the thought he had caused someone such an injury. All he could see was the blood on her hands. He was just about to head back to the nurses station for the third time to see if he could see her when a nurse stuck her head in the room. “Mr. Mailer?”

Silently Danny Nodded.

“Come with me please.”

Danny followed the nurse down the hallway. “Is she alright?"

As they reached another door the nurse smiled up at him and pushed it open.

He saw Veny sitting up in bed looking out the window. Danny thought she went a little paler as she looked at him and recognised who he was.

Veny was just about to say something when Danny stepped further into the room and rushed his words in an attempt to apologise before he got his head bitten off. “I’m so very, very sorry I did this to you. If I could turn back time, I would. I…….”

Veny gave him a smile. “It was an accident Mr. Mailer. Not exactly the way I expected to meet a member from Osmosis. Don’t worry, I accept your apology.”

Danny stuck his hands into his pockets still feeling a little uncomfortable. “Thanks.”

“I’ll make a deal with you. If you let me call you Danny you can call me Veny.”

Danny moved a little closer to the bed and smiled his beaming smile. Veny saw the relief wash over his face. “Okay Veny. You Ray’s girlfriend?”

Veny laughed then frowned, her head still hurt. “No. That would be Terry and I think that you should stay out of her way. She’s going to be pissed when she finds out where I am. Once she is finished with Ray…” Veny let her words fall away.

“So maybe I should tell Ray you are okay before he gets into trouble.”

Again, Veny smiled at him. “You can tell him but he will still be in trouble.” 

Danny gave her a concerned look. “Is there anything I can do for you?”

Veny looked back out the window. “Find my angel.”

It was Danny’s turn to frown. “Sorry?”

“Nothing. No. I have to stay overnight.” She pulled on her hospital issue gown. “I guess this will do for that.”

“Please let me get you something to wear. I feel so useless.”

Once again, she smiled at him. “It’s okay. As long as I get out of here for your concert I will be happy. Wouldn’t want you guys to see an empty seat.”

For the next twenty minutes, Danny sat on her bed and they chatted. Veny explained why she was with Ray that day. Well the fact that she was staying with Terry but not the reason and Danny explained why he was running down the stairs in such a rush. Simon had played a practical joke and told Danny his video camera was in the technician’s booth Ray had told her about. Of course when he got there all he found was a note, no camera, so he was on the way back down to wreak revenge on Simon.

Veny laughed frowning a little. Her head still hurt but not as much. Danny took her hand gently in his. “I really am sorry.”

“I know. Maybe you should head back and give Ray a personal report. I am fine really.” Danny began to shake his head. “Danny you can’t stay here all night.” Again, Danny went to protest and Veny gave him a cheeky smile. “Come back with breakfast if you like and the other three quarters of the group.”

Terry had been busy so had not answered her phone when Ray rang; now that she was she was fuming. Her position as Communication Co-coordinator for State Traffic Emergency Services afforded her some privileges not available to civilians. By the time she walked out of the building she had all the information she needed. She was still fuming when she walked into Veny’s hospital room seeing Danny lean over to kiss her on the check. Terry was about to let loose with a verbal attack when she realised that Veny was sleeping.

Danny had no doubts as to whom she was or how angry she was and he tried to usher her back out the room as gently as he could. “Terry she’s okay. Just fell asleep. I am sorry it was an accident but she will be okay.”

Danny watched Terry pace up and down the hall wondering if she was going to cause a scene. Every time she walked passed him she would look at him. On her last pass without warning, she hit him hard in the arm. “She’s been through so much. How could you hurt her like that?”

“I didn’t mean to. I’m sorry.”

It was then that Terry really looked into his eyes. She could tell he was truly sorry and her demeanour changed just a little. Terry sighed. “I know you are. It’s just. Awe… Shit. Sorry. I feel like I should be able to help her more.”

“Well according to Veny you are the best friend she could ever have. Her words not mine.”

“I think I will sit with her a while.”

Danny smiled after her as she entered Veny’s room but he had to wonder at what he heard her say just before the door closed. “If anyone needs a guardian angel it’s you Veny my girl.”

Terry sat by Veny’s bed for a good half an hour before she began to stir, sensing a presence she mumbled. “G man?…”

Terry pushed forward in her chair. “Sorry, just me.”

Veny smiled. “Hey. Ray still alive?”

“Only because I haven’t seen him yet.”

“Don’t be too hard on him, it wasn’t his fault.” Just then, Veny’s eyes fell on the gift bag sitting on her bedside table. “You shouldn’t have Terry.”

Terry shook her head. “Not me. Must have been that long stretch of a clumsy oaf that knocked you over. It’s the least he could do.”

As Veny opened the bag she looked back to her friend. “You saw Danny?”

“If that is his name. He was just leaving as I arrived.”

Both girls’ eyes fell on the nightgown that Veny had pulled from the bag. It was a very pale shade of blue with small multi-coloured butterflies printed on it, silky satin and very soft. Veny pushed it against her cheek. “It’s so smooth.”

“Well at least he has good taste.”

Veny laughed at her friend. “You do know who Danny is don’t you?”

Terry shook her head. “The big oaf that put you in here.”

“He’s one of them. One of Osmosis.”

This time Terry just rolled her eyes. “Are you sure he knocked you over and you didn’t just plan this?”

“Terry!!!!!!”

Both girls were laughing when the doctor entered the room. “Well that is what I like to see. Happy people.”

Terry stood as the doctor went to have a look at Veny. “How is she doc?”

He spoke while he checked Veny’s blood pressure and then her head wound and lastly her eyes. “Good, Mind you a few millimetres more and you would have need stitches. You must have hit the wall pretty hard.”

Terry replied before Veny could stop her. “She had help.”

“Terry!!!! It was an accident Doctor. Someone fell down the stairs and collected me on the way.”

Finished with his exam the doctor stood at the foot of the bed. “Accident it may have been but I would still like you to stay in overnight just to make sure. I see your friend has supplied you with your own clothes for the night.”

Veny blushed as Terry explained whom the nightgown was from. “Well the young man must have felt bad. I bought my wife one similar and it cost me a fortune.” The Doctor smiled at Veny. “I think it is time you got some rest.”

Terry understood that was her cue to leave. “Okay. You want me to swing by in the morning and pick up?”

“No and don’t be going and giving Ray a hard time either.”

The doctor and Terry left together, Veny looked at the nightgown she had in her hands wondering just how expensive it was before sitting on the side of the bed and changing into it.  

The hospital staff had been around at about six that morning to deliver breakfast; although Veny had not eaten she was awake when Danny popped his head in the room a few hours later. “Wasn’t sure if you would still be here?”

Veny smiled at him happy for the company, blushing a little realising she had on the nightgown he had given her. “Yep still here. Got to wait for the doc to give me the okay before I can leave.”

Danny pulled his whole body into the room and held a brown paper bag out in front of him. “I brought breakfast and….” He reached back and opened the door so that Simon and Cassey could enter her room. “Sorry but I could only manage three quarters. Hope that was okay.”

Veny smiled. “You guys didn’t have to come.” She looked at Danny. “Any of you.”

Simon stepped forward taking her hand in his. “I did Cherie. To apologise. When I heard what had happened because of my foolishness I could not let you think that I would mean you any harm.”

Veny smiled at the sound of his French accent and squeezed his hand. “That is very sweet of you but not necessary.”

Cassey stepped forward. “I hope that you will be well soon Bella. We have a car waiting outside to take you home as soon as it is approved.”

Once more Veny smiled at the difference between Simon and his Spanish counterpart looking from one to the other. “Haven’t you guys got more important things to do?” She looked to the door as her heart sank just a little knowing that Ury would not be joining them. “I have no idea how long before the doctor will be doing his rounds.”

Danny began to open the bag that he had brought with him. “Then we shall have breakfast while we wait.” He began to place an assortment of baked goods on the table. Danish, muffins, croissants.

It seemed to Veny that she was going to be stuck with them until they were satisfied she was okay. Not that she minded in the least trying to think of a way to ask if she could have a photo with them all.

Only Simon had noticed her disappointment that Ury was missing.

“If he had known about your accident Cherie I am sure that out Swiss friend would have joined us.”

Veny was a little taken back and tried to cover her shock. “Let me guess, he managed to get hold of a motorbike and has gone off exploring the wide open spaces of my fair state?”

Danny laughed. “Yours and about three others, he’s taking the scenic routed from our last concert.”

“Oh and Danny thank you for this.” She pulled on the neck of her nightgown.

Danny just bowed his head a little.

The next few days became a blur of activity as Veny returned to work and tried to look for a place of her own in any spare time she had. She had not seen much of Ray or Terry in that time either. He was doing everything he could to make things up to her. Not that Veny thought he needed to and had told him so but Ray was happy to be able to spoil Terry for a change and it was Terry’s text message that drew her attention away from the for lease advertisements staring back at her from the computer screen. It read. ‘So big night tonight’…… Veny smiled. She had been lucky enough to have three of the four members of Osmosis all to herself for almost a day but to hear them all sing live was what she was waiting for. That was to happen in a few short hours when she attended her first Osmosis concert. Her shift at Mount William Hospital had actually finished about forty-five minutes earlier but Veny wanted to check out any possible new apartment vacancies before heading back to Terry’s to pamper herself in a nice long bubble bath. Having most of the afternoon to relax before the concert Veny was going to take her time.  She had practically bullied Terry into going with her and Veny had a sneaking suspicion the only reason she had said yes was Ray. However, due to work Terry was going to have to meet her at the arena. It was thoughts of a nice glass of red wine and the soft soothing touch of bubbles that she left the hospital but she stopped just as she was about to walk out the front entrance. 
 “G Man???”   

Tabris had no idea how she could know that he was with her but she had sensed him. Technically, he was not her guardian and they should not have had such a strong connection. He had to wonder if by being with Gavreel she was even more sensitive to their presence. He was about to speak a thought to her when she sighed and continued to walk down the street to the train station. “I wish I could talk to him just one more time.” Tabris stopped hovering above her as Veny stopped walking and did the same thing she had done in the bathroom. She looked right at him. “I know you can’t tell him but can you let me know that he is alright somehow?”

“Dear sweet Veny.” Tabris dropped down to stand next to her and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “He is well. Do not grieve for him.”

Veny placed her hand on her cheek and closed her eyes taking a breath, she had felt it, she was sure and with her eyes closed she knew she had picked up on that sweet aroma. It was not Gavreel’s sandalwood and caramel but it was definitely there. Once again she surprised Tabris by turning to look at him. “Thank you.”

Tabris had stop his own tears from falling as he watched those that  fell  from Veny’s eyes and wondered if he would have had the courage to walk away from such a divine creature as Veny.

Chapter  3

Veny stood at the main entrance to the Arena shifting from one foot to the other while she waited for Terry to arrive. Her text had said she was about five minutes away. They had about twenty minutes before the concert was due to start and after spending so much time with Danny, Cassey and Simon the other day Veny could not understand why she had butterflies in her stomach because of a concert. She smiled to herself, her smile widened as she saw Terry rushing towards her. The two women hugged. “So let’s do this shall we Veny.”

“You sound almost as excited as I feel. You sure you are not a closest fan?”

Terry laughed. “Not a chance.”

“You might change your mind once you hear them sing.”

“I have heard them sing remember, I think I have heard everything you have of theirs. No, Ray promised a late dinner once he is finished.”

Veny let the subject dropped. She had heard the stories from other fans. Friends or family members had gone to a concert only to be transformed into a fan before the night was through, even though they would confess there was nothing special about the group. Seeing them live cast a powerful spell on those that attended. Veny felt the butterflies in her stomach take flight once more as they were ushered closer and closer to the front of the venue. Terry was in front of her and kept looking back, a confused expression on her face. Veny was equally shocked when the usher showed them to their seats, second row from the front. As the usher handed the tickets back to Veny she looked from the stage and back to him. “Are you sure?”

“Yes Ma’am, very sure. These are your seats. Enjoy the show.”

Terry pulled Veny into her seat. “You had no idea you had such good seats did you?”

Veny shook her head in silence, they were so close. She had waited two years to see Osmosis live, even if they just came out and sang one song she would be happy.

Veny managed to carry on a general conversation with Terry until the lights dimmed and the concert started.

It was as if no one else existed, she was carried on a wave of harmony and magic through each and every song they sang but as hard as she tried to give each member of the group equal attention her eyes would always return to Ury. Oh when they had a solo, especially Danny and Cassey it was hard to look anywhere else but her eyes would always fall back on Ury. It was if her life was tuned into his voice, she heard every note he sang no matter how soft, his inflections were perfect and she could feel herself holding her breath when he sang a solo. 

Why he held a place in her heart and her dreams she was never sure. Maybe because they had turned up right when she needed something to believe in, to give her hope. The first time she had seen Ury looked so sad, distant. She knew it was ridiculous but she felt if she told him how she was feeling back then he would have understood. People had condemned him as aloof, carrying a chip on his shoulder. All she had seen was the hurt and sadness emanating from his soul. It was only when she found out that he had broken up with his long-time girlfriend that she understood the reason for his sadness. Yet her own soul told her there was more to it than that.

But now, listening, watching him sing, he was healing her soul, taking away her pain and hurt. Veny gasped and placed her hand over her chest as a lone tear escaped and she uttered one word. “Gavreel?”

It was not unusual for them to see some of their fans crying when they sang, even if they did not understand the words they seemed to catch the emotion of a song, so Ury was not surprised to see her tears when he looked down at Veny and gave her a wink. He was about to walk away when he stopped and looked back down at her, there was something different about her. Just as he pushed the thought out of his mind Danny met him and while Simon and Cassey sang their parts Danny point to Veny and told Ury that she was the one he had knocked over. He waved to her energetically and blew her a kiss much to the surprise of those around her. Although Simon and Cassey had been singing they had been watching Danny’s antics and recognised Veny. They too walked over to Ury’s side of the stage, also waved and blew her kisses sending a ripple through the crowd. Veny felt her face flush but she did manage to smile and blow them a kiss back. Then she did something that caught Ury by surprise. Veny ever so slightly gave him a graceful bow, dipping her head to one side. He reciprocated sending the fans into another flurry of Osmosis worship. The men were then pulled back into their performance and once more Veny was just another face in a sea of faces.

 At the end of the concert, because they were sat so close to the front Veny and Terry elected to stay seated and let a lot of the crowd filter out before they tried. They had been talking for about ten minutes when Ray came dashing from back stage. He bent over and gave Terry a kiss. “Glad you decided to wait for the crowd to clear I would have had a devil of a time tracking you down otherwise.”

Terry pulled her mobile phone out of her pocket and held it up for him to see. Veny laughed. It was nice to see a male stuck in a blonde moment with no way out. “You’re not going to cancel dinner are you?”

“No. No Terry but Danny asked if you two would mind coming back stage for a while.”

It was Veny who spoke. “What; so he can knock me over again?”

Ray looked mortified but Terry and Veny both laughed.

By the time Ray escorted both girls back stage all four members of Osmosis had changed into their casual clothes and were in idol conversation.  Danny’s face lit up when he saw Veny, not so much when his eyes fell on Terry.

“Yeah nice to see you too big foot.”

Veny shot her friend a horrified look. “Terry!!!!!”

Danny pulled Veny into a hug and laughed. “It’s okay I guess I had that coming.”

Simon came forward. “Veny, you are well now?”

“Except for the lump on my head I am very well thank you Simon.” Veny turned her eyes to Cassey. “And you Cassey you are good?” Cassey nodded. “You have such a powerful voice.” Not wanting to leave the others out she washed her gaze over them all falling on Ury last. “You all have such amazing voices.”

Danny realised that Terry had not been introduced to the others so did the honours. leaving Veny’s introduction to Ury for last. Veny outstretched her hand for him to shake not sure if her words would get stuck in her throat. “Mr Burser. Nice to meet you. Did you enjoy you ride through our state?”

Ury smiled, shook her hand. “I did very much so. Thank you for enquiring and I am glad that you survived being accosted by Danny the other day.”

Danny took hold of Veny’s hand, which shocked her a little. “We were heading back to the hotel for a late dinner. We would love it if you ladies would join us.”

Veny was not sure what to say. She felt a little awkward that it had been Danny to ask her but Terry saved her from any embarrassment. “Sure we would love to but not too late. You might not have to get up until lunch time but we’ve got to be up with the sun.”

Ury had noticed that Veny had not spoken. “Please do not feel obligated. If you must leave we will understand.”

As Ury looked to Veny for her answer she felt a warmth rush over her entire body. Like being clothed in…….in the arms of an angel. Her thoughts shocked her and motivated her to respond. “No Mr Burser I would be very honoured to join Osmosis for dinner.”

Ury took Veny’s other hand and folded her arm into his. It felt so natural that Veny let Danny’s hand drop as Ury continued to speak. “Then I would be honoured to escort you and please call me Ury.”

When Veny spoke it was almost a whisper. “I’d like that.”

Danny and Simon followed Veny and Ury down the hallway, Danny shaking his head.

 “I don’t get it. How does he do that?”

Simon patted his friend on the back. “I don’t think he has any idea the affect he has.”

“But she was holding my hand right? I mean I remember taking it. I like her, I was thinking maybe…..Oh never mind.”

Cassey, Ray and Terry were walking behind Danny and Simon when Ray pipped up. “Don’t worry Danny, you never stood a chance, she is Ury gal through and through.”

Terry shot him a look. “And prey tell how do you know this???”

“You mean you didn’t?”

“Of course I did. I mean, you mean Ury is her favourite right?”

Ray nodded.

“Then yes.”

It was time for Cassey to slip his arm through Terry’s. “So Terry, you are not a fan?”

She replied impishly. “Oh I wouldn’t say that. I am rather partial to Spaniards with powerful voices.”

Ray just shook his head.

Dinner was surprisingly refreshing for Veny, she had not realised how much she had missed going out with her friends, having to cover up the bruises her so-called boyfriend would inflict on her or worried that he would get jealous she was out and come looking for her. She laughed at the stories unfolding, so much at times her sides hurt but when Terry began to tell them about why she was staying with her Veny felt like she just wanted to hide under the table. She lowered her head and stared at her wine glass not wanting to meet anyone’s gaze, knowing they were all looking at her, a small tear trickling down her cheek. Not a tear of anger or pain but of shame. Shame that she had not been able to stop him from doing the things he did to her, shame that now Osmosis, that Ury knew.  As it happened, she was sat between Danny and Simon, if she had looked up she would be looking straight at Ury and Cassey. It was Cassey that could not hold back his passion any longer, the others had been shocked into silence wondering what to say but Cassey, first in a flurry of Spanish so fast that everyone had a hard time understanding him until he switched to English.. “This is outrageous, how could a man treat such a beautiful woman like that. No!!!!! This swine needs to be taught a lesson.!!!” In a softer voice he continued. “Bella you must let me avenge your honour.”

Everyone, including Veny looked to Cassey not quite believing what he had said. It was then that Ury and Cassey saw her tears though it was Terry that spoke. “I think there has been enough avenging. Veny did a pretty good job of it herself thank you very much.”

This had them all intrigue so now all eyes were on Veny as she once again studied her wine glass.

Danny took hold of one of her hands. “Can you tell us what you did?”

Veny bit her lip and looked up into his eyes, then around the table and saw Terry nod. “I hit him on the side of the head with a frying pan.”

Veny kept looking at Danny not daring to look at anyone else as deathly silence fell on the group. Just as she thought it was a mistake both Danny and Cassey let loose with hearty laughs followed by Simon, Ray and Terry. Danny pulled her into a bear hug. “Way to go…”

The only two not laughing were Veny and Ury. No one else noticed but as their eyes met Ury gave her a small smile and she was almost sure his eyes were moist with unborn tears. 

Although they had all laughed there was still a little tension among the group so Simon did his best to relieve it. “I think Veny’s bravery calls for a celebration.” He motioned for the waiter. “Champagne I think.”

“Oh no Simon. That is not necessary.” 

Ury could see by the look in her eyes that Veny was almost pleading and stepped in. “Then may I suggest a night cap.  A small glass of port maybe?”

By now the waiter was at the table so Veny nodded her acceptance. “Thank you.”

The others ordered varying drinks from brandy to schnapps.

Although she was tired, knowing she would have to be up in a few hours Veny did not sleep. Her heart seemed to be in some kind of turmoil. Though nothing had happened and it had been a dinner among friends, somehow she felt that she had betrayed Gavreel. Yes she had a soft spot in her heart for Ury, so did thousands of other fans but what she had shared with Gavreel had been so very special. She did not want to let that feeling go for anyone, not even Ury; as if that would ever happen but having been connected with Gavreel she also knew that they would never see each other again. She cried the tears of someone with a broken heart. In the short time he had been with her he had given her so much, loved her so much. Even if Ury was the man for her, could she give him the love he needed.

Tabris moved from his station in the corner of her room and gently stroked his hand through her hair until she did fall asleep. He had intended to leave once he had made sure she was all right but decided to stay and keep watch while she slept. The sun would be up in a few hours and a new day would begin. Tabris hoped this would help Veny get on with her life.

After the concert that Veny and Terry had been to see Osmosis had four days to themselves, with the exception of a radio interview planned for the morning of the second day. Ury had gone off exploring on his bike and it was not unusual for two or three of the members to do the interviews at times but today Ury had not been too far from the city and agreed to meet them at the radio station.

Travelling on the freeway back into town Ury smiled to himself. He had made up his mind to head back to the city as there was something he wanted to do. Veny had been playing on his mind since they had had dinner the other night. She had invaded his dreams. Ury flashed his lights and sped up so he could come alongside the people mover he had recognised as the one they had been using. Danny rolled down the window and waved to Ury about to shout something to him when all of a sudden he vanished. 

Danny was about to ask the others what had happened when his world was turned upside down, literally. The car had been hit and after swerving while the driver tried to keep some control it hit another car giving it enough lift to roll over the barrier and down the small bank at the side of the freeway. Luckily, it came to rest upright. Everyone inside the car was unconscious but once rescued by the paramedics it would be found that they had no major injuries, just sore heads, cuts and bruises. Danny was the first to come around on a stretcher at the side of the road and a paramedic pushed him back down as he tried to get up. “Ury. Where’s Ury.”

“Hey big fella take it easy you and your friends got shook up pretty bad.”

Danny focused on the paramedic. “My friends in the car???”

The paramedic pointed over Danny so he turned his head to see Cassey, Simon and the driver all in a similar situation to himself.

“They are okay but you all need to go to hospital, we just have to get the urgent cases sorted out first.”

“But Ury what happened to him.”

“There wasn’t anyone else in the car maybe he got out.”

Danny shook his head, which was not a good idea. “No….. not in the car on a bike. Where is he?”

The paramedic took a deep breath. There had been two motor cycles caught up in the carnage that had unfolded when an eighteen wheeler had jack knifed causing the chaos that surrounded them. One of the riders was dead; the other was in a critical condition and not expected to make it. Either way the news he had for his patient was not going to be good.

Ury had seen the accident unfolding before them and had braked hard to try to get out of the traffic before he became tangled up in it. That was why Danny had seen him disappear so quickly, Unfortunately for Ury and several other people including the rest of  Osmosis it was not the main accident that had caused them to be entangled but a secondary one where a driver has panicked, over compensated and started a ricochet affect. Ury was hit from behind sending him flying over his bike and onto the road. His bike sliding behind him until it hit him and went over the top of him. Ury screamed in pain as a car wheel ran over his leg and he was flung against the safety barrier.

The warning alarm began to ring at Terry’s station even before the truck came to a stop. The accident had happened on a part of the freeway that was under surveillance twenty four hours a day so as soon as the alarm sounded Terry had a bird’s eye view of what was going on “Shit….Get ready to pull in some over time boys and girls.”

Terry had a good team and was glad of it. A big accident like this could get messy, so many people needed to be informed. As she listened to the phone conversations around her she knew that all emergency services would have been contacted even before anyone on the ground in the accident would call them.  Straight away there were two things that made the accident scene into a bigger nightmare. The truck that jack knifed had rolled onto its side and it was blocking the tunnel into the city meaning that help would have to come from surrounding  paramedic, fire and police stations and  there was no access to City Hospital except by helicopter and that was not an option at the crash site.

Terry put in the call to Mount William Hospital, they were going to be hammered as every emergency was going to be coming through their doors.

Tabris stood at the side of the road looking over the scene before him. He had been called to attend and found himself standing shoulder to shoulder with is friend Gavreel. “I did not expect to find you at a car accident my friend.”

Gavreel gave him a weary smile. “I wish you had not. My heart is heavy at the news I carry.”

Tabris looked around at the flurry of activity as people tried to help each other. “You are telling me that this was no accident.”
“Seems we are bound to run into each other my friend.”

Tabris looked at his friend shocked for a moment. “Terry??” If she had been in trouble why had they called him away from her?

Gavreel gave his friend a reassuring touch on the shoulder. “No. She is well. It  Danny’s fall down the stairs was no accident either.”

Now Tabris looked to Gavreel with real concern. “Yes I know about it Tabris, I also know that if he had not fallen into Veny he would be dead, broken neck. These four men are set to do something with far reaching effects and our adversary is none too pleased about it. Some time ago Simon had an accident and only broke his leg thanks to some intervention on our part. Cassey was almost killed in a speedboat accident last year, almost but something different was going to happen today. We could not stop the truck but we did manage to stop some of those that would have been hurt from being involved.”

Tabris took a deep breath. “And the four men??”

Gavreel pointed to the line of ambulances waiting to move out. “Three are on the way to the hospital. They will be sore for a while but they are safe and alive. We kept them alive. Angus and his team managed to get the car over the barrier instead of it landing on it. Our job is to keep them alive whatever it takes.”

“Gavreel you said three, who? Is the other dead?”

“I am afraid that he will not last much longer if we do not intervene. If not for Caen he would be dead already.”

Tabris could tell by the look on his friends’ face to whom he was referring. “No Tabris, I know you wish to be with her but not like this. You have given up so much. She will remember you always no matter who she is with I know this. You cannot do this.”

“We have to keep him alive, whatever it takes Tabris.”

“Then let one of the others do this?”

“How can I. You, yourself know what must be done for him to live. I cannot ask that of another. If I can reach her in time she will understand and my hope is that some part of me will remain with him. I have to try Tabris if not for me but for him and the others. For us to win this war Tabris those four men need to be together.”

Tabris sighed. “Then what would you have me do my friend?”

“Stay with Terry, get her to call Veny, she will need to be there when we get to the hospital.”

“I will be there when you arrive my friend. I promise.”

Terry was listening to all the radio chatter from the accident sight as well as to her own crew giving direction and watching the cameras. A call from a paramedic caught her attention.

“No… I said I got a guy here refusing to go to the hospital until we find his friend. They belong to the same group of singers or something. He was on a bike, a motor bike.”

Terry listened to the banter between the paramedic and dispatch while she took over the control of one of the cameras and began to search the site for motor bikes. Just as she saw an image of a mangled bike laying under a car the conversation she was listening to took a turn for the worst. “We have confirmed that two bike riders are on route to Mount William. One deceased, the other critical.”

“Can you tell me if one of them is the guy we are looking for dispatch? Name of Burser,  Burser.”

Terry stood motionless in the middle of the control room. Had she heard right?

“Confirmed. Critical patient Burser.”

Terry did not hear the rest of the conversations; in fact, it was as if the rest of the room had gone silent while she put a call through to Mount William Hospital and Veny in particular.

“Veny its Terry. Look things are pretty bad.”

“You are telling me we are just getting the first critical patients in. Did you need something?”

“Yes…Ury is on his way.”

Before she could finish Veny cut her off. “I can’t talk to him now Terry I….”

VENY!! He’s a critical patient. He was in the accident, they all were.” Terry waited for Veny to react. “Veny you still there?”

“I have to go Terry. I have to go.”

Veny stood at the nurses station watching the stretchers coming in and being escorted to different emergency cubicles.

“Dear God let them be alright. Let him be alright.”