‘Dr Carrington,’ Fiona interrupted.  ‘I really feel I should be speaking with you as team leader.  I’m not sure Alexa is as familiar with the project….’

Helena admired ambition, she remembered how it felt to be young and tenacious and keen to show what you could do but she had learnt one thing Fiona hadn’t.  Never get in the way of the boss spending time with their lover, that was guaranteed to wrangle.

‘Fiona I’ve given Alexa the necessary information.  I suggest you both head back to your seats.’

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

‘Oh my god Helena this place looks amazing,’ said Alexa as their car stopped outside Helena’s house.  ‘You must’ve missed being here so much!’

‘Actually I have.  This place is really my sanctuary in this crazy world.’

‘I’m honoured that you want to show it to me, I hope you know that,’ added Alexa as they reached the front door.

Helena just slipped an arm around her shoulders as they walked inside.  ‘Home sweet home,’ she said.

‘Welcome home Helena!’ came the chorus from inside the hallway.  The sound of party poppers rang out causing both Helena and Alexa to jump.

‘Oh my god, Alice, Dana, Tina, Shane, Bette!  I didn’t expect to see you until later!’ Helena said as her friends each came over to hug her.  ‘I see you brought back a souvenir,’ said Alice, the first to refer to Alexa.

Helena frowned and took Alexa’s hand.  ‘This is Alexa, we met on the last part of my tour in England and she’s spending some more time with me here for the next couple of weeks.’

‘Hi’ said Alexa shyly as Alice looked at Helena in surprise.

Shane approached Alexa and shook her hand.  ‘Hey I’m Shane.  Don’t mind Alice she like to know everything straight away.’

‘Hey!  You know I didn’t mean to be rude it’s just Helena brought a gorgeous blond home with her, it’s not unreasonable to want the gossip.’

‘No but you could let them get in the door first,’ said Bette.  ‘Pleased to meet you Alexa’ she added.

‘Here let me take that bag for you Alexa,’ said Alice.  ‘Should I drop this in the guest room or Helena’s.’

Helena rolled her eyes.  ‘God Alice, you’re so transparent, yes we’re lovers alright. No guest room necessary.  Remind me why I missed you again?’