Previously:
Dylan had showered and changed into her first outfit of blue jeans, light grey sweater with White tee underneath, and suit jacket. She would change into her challenge gear in the later part of the show.
She had just popped outside of her dressing room to see if there was any sign of Emily and Molly when Katie spotted her.
"Hi Dylan, have you been avoiding me?" Katie stepped up a little too close for Dylan's liking.
"Listen, would you like to get a drink after the show? Maybe come back to my place?"
"Uh ... I have plans already, Katie."
"They can't be that great, Dylan, you're not seeing anyone, I asked around." Katie ran her hand teasingly up and down Dylan's arm.
"I know I'm not out, but I can assure you I'm really attracted to you, Dylan. I would do anything you asked."
Dylan was just about pull away from Katie's clutches when she heard someone clear their throat.
She turned around to see Lynn standing with Emily, who had Molly up in her arms.
Dylan's stomach dropped. 'Uh oh!'
Episode 3
Emily felt a hot surge of jealousy course through her veins.
I knew that tramp was all over Dylan! Oh my God. She isn't interested in her is she? Did we interrupt something? Oh Dylan please, I've put so much faith in you!
Dylan saw a look of anger on Emily's face as she stared at Katie's hand running up and down her arm.
Oh shit!
Emmie! Molls! Your here at last! I've been waiting for you."
Dylan walked quickly over and took Molly from the blonde's arms.
"Hey Smurf! How are you?"
"Miffed you Dien," Molly said as she cuddled into Dylan's chest.
"Aww! I missed you too, Molls." Dylan then took Emily's hand and pulled her towards the dressing room door.
Katie looked on with disgust.
Who is this nobody?!
"Aren't you going to introduce me, Dylan? Is this your cleaning lady?" Katie laughed cruelly.
You bitch! thought the big woman.
Dylan put her free arm around Emily's shoulder.
"As I was trying to tell you, Katie, I have plans tonight. This is my girlfriend Emily and her daughter Molly. If you'll excuse us, Katie, I'll see you on set."
Dylan then steered Emily into her dressing room, keeping Molly up in her arms. When the door was finally closed she said worriedly, "I'm so sorry about her, Emmie. I was just standing in the hallway waiting for you guys and she came up and was all over me just as you arrived. I hope you don't think anything of it, I was just so excited waiting for you and she just ..."
"It's okay Dyl, I believe you. I trust you. She had no idea why but she instinctively trusted her.
Dylan let out a sigh of relief. "Great! I've been so looking forward to this! I hope you didn't mind me saying you were my girlfriend, I know it's probably too soon for you but I wanted to get a message across to Katie, and well ... it's what I want."
Emily smiled shyly. "I liked it."
Dylan leaned over and gave Emily a soft kiss on the lips.
"Me kiss Dien!" the little girl said.
Dylan lifted the girl up in the air and blew a raspberry on the girl's tummy making her howl with laughter.
"No Dien! Ha ha! Pease!"
The big woman brought her back down and kissed her on the nose.
"Was that kiss good enough?" she smiled.
Molly was gasping for breath from laughing. "Dien you funny!"
Emily, who had been laughing along with them said, "I think you two are going to be a bad influence on each other."
"Oh! Listen Molls, Big Bird was at the studio today and I told him how much you liked watching him. He couldn't stay but he asked me to give you this."
Dylan walked over to the table with the snacks and drinks, and picked up a toy Big Bird with Sesame Street balloons tied around his wrist.
"Wow! Dien! Big Bird was ere?" Dylan untied the balloons so Molly could pick up the toy.
"Dylan you're going to spoil her," Emily said seriously.
"Hey, I've never had anyone to spoil before. Okay?" Dylan cupped and stroked Emily's face with her hand.
The young blonde smiled.
You melt my heart when you look at me like that.
"Okay. Thank you."
"And these are for you." Dylan gestured to the large bouquet of flowers sitting on the table.
Emily walked over and inhaled their beautiful scent.
"Dyl, they're wonderful. Thank you. You know, no one ever gave me flowers before you."
"You deserve the best Emmie. I ... I just wanted tonight to be perfect. Come and sit."
Dylan took her hand and guided her over to the couch where Molly was playing with Big Bird.
The big woman looked shyly at Emily and said, "You look beautiful, Emmie."
"Hardly! I can't compete with the women you see every day."
Dylan lifted the blonde's hand and kissed it tenderly.
"There's no competition, Emmie. You're the only one who has ever made me feel like this. To me, you're perfect. You have curves in all the right places and eyes that make me want to get lost in them."
"When you look at me like that I want to believe you, to trust you."
"I promise you can." Dylan moved towards Emily and gave her the sweetest of kisses.
"Hmmm," Emily moaned. "Maybe we can discuss this more later."
"Count on it. Listen, I know I won't be with you all the time tonight but Lynn will stay with you and make sure you have everything you need. Ask for anything you want and think of my dressing room as your own. I know it'll be a long night for the Smurf, so I've got some blankets here if you want to let her sleep on the couch. There's food and snacks on the table there, and all kinds of drinks in the fridge. Just make sure you keep your pass around your neck, security is tight around here."
"Thank you, I can't wait to see what goes on. The show was amazing on TV last night."
Dylan's chest puffed out a little.
"You liked it?"
"Yeah, it was so fun and you're so good with the audience. The stunt at the end, woah! I had my heart in my mouth. You're so strong and athletic. I ... um ... oh ... nothing."
Emily looked away blushing.
"Come on Emmie, tell me. You can tell me anything. I would never laugh at you."
"Well ... I love how big and strong you are, I just wondered if you had a six pack under there. Oh god, I'm so embarrassed!"
Dylan smirked and gave her a smoky look. "I hope you'll want to find out, baby."
Caught up in the depths of each other's eyes, their lips got closer and closer until a little face came between them.
"Me have some juice pease, Dien?"
They two women laughed. "I guess we'll have to get back to this later. Come on Smurf! Let's go choose some juice!"
Dylan lifted the little girl up and took her to get a drink.
"So, you ready for a look around? I've got about an hour before I have to go and do my stuff."
"Great, I can't wait to see," Emily said excitedly.
***************************************************************************
They had toured around wardrobe, hair and makeup. The makeup girls made a fuss over Molly, styling her hair, drawing a little butterfly on her cheek and putting on some sparkly stickers.
"There you go, honey. You're all set for TV!" one of the young makeup girls said.
"Look at me, Mama!"
"You look pretty, sweetie. Say thank you to Sandy."
"Tank ou, Sandy."
"No problem honey, you come back anytime you want. Dylan never lets us put much makeup on her so we love to get the chance!"
Emily and the makeup girls laughed.
"Hey! I hate the stuff. I'm just not a makeup kinda girl," the big woman pouted.
"No, I don't think you are, Dyl, and I like you that way," Emily said.
Dylan smiled smugly. "See, somebody appreciates me, Sandy."
"Haven't you got something high and dangerous to be jumping off?" she said sarcastically.
Emily and Molly laughed, enjoying the easy banter the TV star enjoyed with her staff. Dylan certainly didn't act like a star.
"See what I have to put up with? See you later, girls."
They then made their way to the studio floor and walked out onto the vast black stage.
"This place is huge!" Emily said. Molly seeing a big open space, set off at a run.
"Don't trip over any of the wires, Molls!" her mother shouted.
"She'll be fine. Mike!" Dylan shouted over to a guy fiddling with one of the cameras.
"Yeah?"
"Can you watch out for Molly here while I show her Mom the rest of the set?"
"Sure, no problem."
"Molly! Come here a second." The little girl ran over to Dylan.
"This is Mike, he's going to watch you while I show Mama around the rest of the set. You can run around if you like."
"Yeah!"
"Be good Molly," said her mother.
They walked further onto the stage area. "I never imagined a studio would be this big," Emily said gazing round the large space.
"Yeah we had to purpose-build this, we started off in a normal studio but there just wasn't enough room for the stunts we were doing. When the show turned out to be a hit, the network agreed to fund this complex. We're standing in a large aircraft hanger, basically. It's sectioned off into offices, rehearsal rooms and facilities for the staff."
"It's really something, Dyl."
Dylan looked down, uncomfortable when receiving praise.
"I'm proud of all that we've achieved. I have a great team working with me. Listen, I need to get ready for the show now. Lets grab the Smurf and head back."
They made their way back to Dylan's dressing room.
Hey Smurf, I'll put the TV on for you okay?" Dylan switched on the Disney Channel and Molly settled on the floor to watch.
"Tanks Dien."
"No problem, Molls" Turning to Emily she said, "Come sit with me a minute."
Once they were seated on the couch, Dylan said, "I have to go but I just wanted some time with you first. Lynn will bring you to watch from backstage when we go live. I ... uh, I can't tell you what it means to me to have you here, have you both here. I've never been happier than since I met you two. I know you think I'm successful and have achieved a lot but I've been alone for so long and especially since Joey died, it's been hard. I know I've been maybe, moving too quickly for you but I've never felt what I'm feeling ever in my life and I want to grab onto it and never let go. You mean the world to me. I guess I just want you know if you let me keep seeing you, it's not some passing fling for me. It's serious."
Emily cupped the side of Dylan's face and looked into her uncertain big blue yes.
You've been lonely for far too long, honey. You may be big and tough but inside you're so vulnerable.
"It's serious for me too. I think you need someone to look after you, honey. I'd like to be that person."
"I'd like that, too," Dylan whispered as their lips came together in a deep kiss; a kiss that spoke of the future and a deep love that they couldn't find the words for yet.
"Mama! Mwah! Mwah!" The little girl laughed at them.
Dylan turned and smiled. "Hey kid, we'll need to work on your timing."
"You better go. Don't want to keep the American public waiting."
"I guess. I'll miss you, I can't wait to spend time with you later."
"Me too. Now scoot."
"Okay, I'm going," Dylan said giving her one final kiss.
"Oh and Dylan?"
"Yeah?"
"Make sure you kick that Katie Phillips butt in the dare!"
"I will. Just for you, Emmie."
***************************************************************************
Jimmy put down his cell with a huge grin on his face.
Well Morgan. I'm getting closer and closer. You're going to make me a very rich man.
He picked up the phone again and called his partner.
"Sam? Yeah it's me. I just got a tip from Dylan Morgan's studio that the girl and her daughter are there tonight watching the filming.
She's introducing her as her girlfriend. I want you outside the studio; see if you can get a shot of the three of them together.
Yeah, I'm still following up the kid's father. There must be a story in that but even without that, this story and the pictures are going to make us a fortune. The press have been looking for this for years, America's most eligible woman tamed at last by a poor single mother who works as a waitress. It's dynamite. A rags to riches story, the public will lap it up.
Get the picture and email it to me. I'll put it some calls to the usual suspects and sell to the highest bidder; it should run on Monday.
Excellent. Talk to you later."
***************************************************************************
Emily struggled to keep hold of a wriggling Molly who was worked up to a frenzy watching the show from the side. The show had been so exciting for them both and it had built to the final challenge. Katie Phillips had been knocked out in the first round, much to Emily's amusement, so it was now just Dylan against the contestant in the final challenge. One shot, blindfolded, closest to the target wins. The challenger went first and just barely hit the target. The audience was now chanting,
"Dylan! Dylan!"
Molly was swept up in the fervor watching her playmate and Emily had to struggle to keep her from running onto the stage.
"Dien! Dien! Me go stand wiv Dien, Mama?"
"No honey. Dylan is busy. Remember we talked about this, Dylan has to concentrate and win so the hospital gets some money?"
This week's charity money was going towards a children's unit at the local hospital.
Dylan took her shot and the crowd went wild as she hit the bullseye.
Emily and Molly cheered and clapped as the big woman took off her blindfold and commiserated with the contestant.
"Bad luck, but remember you still take home the money you won in the first round and you did beat our celebrity contestant. Did you enjoy yourself?"
"Very much, Dylan, I've had a great day."
"Great. Well tune in next week to see me tackle some free running and singer Matt Evans takes on Dylan's Dare when we compete against each other in a five car stunt jump. Remember to catch Katie Phillips every Monday night in her hit show, Head of the House. See you next week and remember ..." Dylan stared down the camera and winked, "Don't try this at home! Goodnight."
Katie Phillips had joined everyone on stage and they all waved at the camera.
"We're off air, Dylan," called one of the crew.
Lynn stepped forward with a towel and bottle of water for her.
"Thanks, can you tell Emily I'll just be a few minutes talking to the audience and then I'll be with her?"
"Sure." Lynn walked over to Emily and said, "she'll just be a couple of minutes, Emily. She just says a few words of thanks to the audience before leaving the stage."
"Okay."
Emily watched as Dylan talked to the contestant and had a final word with Katie.
Boy! She doesn't look happy.
She saw Katie walking toward her with a sinister look on her face.
"You and your little brat better enjoy the high life while you can. Do you think someone as rich and famous as Dylan Morgan will settle down with a waitress, and a single mother at that?"
How does she know all this? One of Dylan's staff must have talked.
Katie's words hit her in the gut and Molly looked up nervously at her mother.
"I'll thank you to keep your nose out of my life and your opinions to yourself. You can call me anything you want but don't you dare say anything like that about my daughter again!"
Katie laughed cruelly. "You're just a phase, sweetheart. Dylan goes through women like candy. As soon as she gets fed up with playing your knight in shining armor, she'll be on to the next one." Katie walked away smiling.
Even though she thought she knew Dylan, there was a part of her deep inside that worried that what Katie said was true.
She watched the big woman make the audience laugh. She was so different onstage.
If she can act that differently there, could she be acting with me?
"Dien!" Emily was shaken from her thoughts when her daughter spotted her playmate bounding over to them.
"Hey! How are my two favorite girls?" She gave them both a kiss.
Dylan's warm, genuine smile seemed to banish the young blonde's fears all at once.
"We're great. The show was excellent."
"You hear me shout for you, Dien?"
The big woman smiled.
I'm falling more and more in love with you two.
"I heard you, Smurf. That's what made me win. Let's get back to my dressing room, so I can get changed and take you two home ... uh to my place."
Shit! I hope she didn't notice that slip. Stop pushing, Dylan!
She held out her arms and said. "Here let me take Molls for you."
Dylan held the little girl in one arm and took Emily's hand with the other.
As they walked Emily said, "Did I hear you say you were doing a stunt jump next week?"
"Yeah! It'll be so cool. Molls will love to watch that, I bet."
"Isn't it a bit dangerous?" Emily worried. They walked into the dressing room and Dylan sat Molly on the couch.
"I'll be fine." The big woman took Emily in her arms, looked her straight in the eye and said, "I'm good with cars and remember, I'm Dylan Morgan! No dare too big!"
Emily laughed. "Ah! So you do have an ego?"
"Well, I am good at a lot of things," Dylan teased the blonde.
"Oh?" Emily stood on her tiptoes and whispered in her ear, "I can't wait to find out."
Dylan shivered from head to foot.
"Uh, I think on that note, I'll grab my shower."
Damm Emmie, you are something else!
"Hurry!"
Dylan turned at the door of the shower room and winked. "Oh, I will!"
***************************************************************************
Dylan pulled her Jeep into the underground parking garage.
"Here we are."
"How do we get to your apartment?"
"There's an elevator over in the corner."
Emily turned around to look at Molly in the car seat.
"Aw, she's sound asleep. It's been a long night for her."
"Thanks for letting her stay up this once, I really enjoyed having you both there. Let's get her to bed and we can have a drink."
Dylan unlocked the door with one hand while carrying a sleeping Molly in her other arm.
"Here we go. Home sweet home."
Emily walked into the large living room and looked at
the rich furnishings and the art on the walls.
Wow! How are Molly and I ever going to fit into her life? This is too much.
Dylan saw the look that crossed the blonde's face and she felt panic in the pit of her stomach.
"It's just a house, I'm still me okay?" Dylan pleaded.
Emily saw the anxiety on the big woman's face.
You really do want this to work don't you?
"It's fine. Lead the way, goofy," Emily smiled.
"Okay, follow me and we can put the Smurf to bed."
Dylan laid the little girl down on the guest bed. "Well, I'll let you get her into her PJ's and settled, and I'll get us some drinks. Would you like some wine?"
"Sure, that would be nice."
"Any preference?"
"Um ... white, please."
"Sure. Just come through to living room when you're ready," Dylan said nervously.
***************************************************************************
Dylan grabbed some wine from the fridge and the snack platter Lynn had ordered for her.
"What else do I need? Wine, snacks, I know there's something."
Dylan's heart thudded in her chest. "Stay calm, Dylan. Glasses! That's it."
She grabbed two glasses, put them on the tray and took it through to the living room.
Cool. Stay cool, Dylan.
She dimmed the lights and set a love playlist she had made up on her iPhone to begin playing.
Perfect.
Dylan was uncorking the wine when Emily appeared, looking a bit unsure of herself.
"Come and sit down, Emmie," Dylan said, handing her a large glass of wine.
"We've got cheese, olives and crackers as well. So dig in."
They sat close, Dylan's arm running along the back of the couch.
"Thanks, these are great," said Emily, grabbing a stuffed olive.
"I got Lynn to order me some food, I'm not used to having guests."
"What do you eat then?"
"Um ... cereal, protein shakes, and mostly take out."
"You really do need some home cooked meals, goofy."
Dylan smiled brightly.
"This is a lovely place, Dyl."
"It's okay. I'll give you the tour before we turn in. It's got everything I need I guess, but it's not really a home. It's kinda lonely coming back here after the show. I'm so glad you two are here."
Emily's heart ached for the big woman.
You've been alone too long.
"It's our pleasure. So where would be home to you?"
"Um ... it's kind of silly." Dylan put her head down shyly.
Emily took her hand. "Tell me. Please?"
"Well, I've always had this dream that if ever I settled down, I would buy a place near the beach; a big piece of land where I could have my privacy. An ocean view, somewhere I could just walk out onto the beach, and have a small boat, maybe. I could have a workshop out back where I could work on stuff, woodwork and home improvement projects. It would be kind of silly to buy something like that just for me to rattle around in, but a great place for a family."
Their eyes met in understanding but neither one wanted to say what they felt.
"You handy with tools, then?" Emily said with a smirk.
"Well I think so." Dylan winked. "No seriously. My grandpa ran a building contractor business and my dad worked as a contractor with him until he opened up the dojo. I loved helping during school holidays and I learned a lot."
"It sounds like a wonderful dream." Emily smiled lovingly at her new girlfriend.
Dylan cleared her throat and said, "So I wanted to ask, has Molls seen Night at the Museum?"
"Yes, she loves that movie. Why?"
"I thought we could take her to the Natural History Museum tomorrow and hunt out all the characters. Thought that would be fun for her and us."
Emily sighed in contentment. "Dylan Morgan you are something else."
The dark haired woman quirked an eyebrow, "Why?"
"Not many people would want to date a woman and have the kid come along everywhere with them, you are so good with her."
Emily thought for a moment and said, "She's quickly falling in love with you."
Dylan's heart thudded, instinctively knowing what Emily was trying to say.
"Why would I mind, she's a great kid and I knew from the start she was a special part of the package. You two come as a pair. Mama Smurf and Baby Smurf! I love her, too."
Emily playfully smacked Dylan's bicep, pretending to be annoyed. "Hey! I'm not that small!"
"You are kinda short, but I like you that way."
"Your just too tall, goofy!" They both laughed.
"But if we're going to continue this we do need some time to go out by ourselves. It's difficult though, finding a sitter to trust," Emily said sadly.
"Maybe Lynn could help us out? She has grown-up children and I'd trust her with my life. I want to continue with this, I feel so much for you in such a short time and I'm trying not to be too full-on and rush you but I need you to know that I'm serious and I was showing you that by calling you my girlfriend tonight."
"I feel it too. We haven't known each other long and I'm really trying to be careful for Molly's sake, but it's so hard because I'm falling for you. I'd love to be your girlfriend, Dylan."
Dylan lifted Emily's hand and kissed it tenderly.
"I'm going to work so hard for your love, Emmie. You're never going to want to leave me."
"You're so sweet, you big goof!"
Dylan lifted her arm and invited Emily to cuddle, which she gleefully accepted.
"Mmm. This is the best way I've ever spent an evening after the show."
"You're good at cuddling."
I've never felt so content. thought Emily as she was cuddled in Dylan's strong arms.
They snuggled like that while listening to the music for a while, then Emily said, "I love this song."
"Yeah, Adele's songs are beautiful. Would you dance with me?"
"What here? In the living room?"
"Sure! Come on." Dylan pulled the blonde up on her feet and started the song again.
Emily went willingly into her arms, resting her head on Dylan's chest.
When the rain
Is blowing in your face
And the whole world
Is on your case
I could offer you
A warm embrace
To make you feel my love
Dylan stroked her hand up and down Emily's back as they swayed together, becoming intoxicated by her unique smell.
When the evening shadows
And the stars appear
And there is no one there
To dry your tears
I could hold you
For a million years
To make you feel my love
Emily began giving gentle kisses to the big woman's collarbone. She felt Dylan respond by pulling away, taking her face in her big hands, and placing the gentlest of kisses on the young woman's lips. The blonde quickly deepened the kiss, teasing Dylan with her tongue. Dylan moaned making her own explorations with her tongue.
I know you
Haven't made
Your mind up yet
But I would never
Do you wrong
I've known it
From the moment
That we met
No doubt in my mind
Where you belong
I'd go hungry
I'd go black and blue
I'd go crawling
Down the avenue
No, there's nothing
That I wouldn't do
To make you feel my love
As the kiss turned more passionate, Dylan's hands grasped the blonde's butt and squeezed, causing Emily to moan in the older woman's mouth.
Emily's hands rested on Dylan's hips, but all she could think about was touching the washboard stomach she had dreamed of. Her hands lifted up the sides of Dylan's sleeveless t-shirt, but she was scared to go any further. Then she felt Dylan's big hand grasp her own and place it under her shirt, encouraging Emily. Dylan moaned and her muscles contracted as Emily's fingers stroked across her hard stomach.
The storms are raging
On the rolling sea
And on the highway of regret
Though winds of change
Are throwing wild and free
You ain't seen nothing
Like me yet
I could make you happy
Make your dreams come true
Nothing that I wouldn't do
Go to the ends
Of the Earth for you
To make you feel my love
Dylan pulled back from the kiss, needing to breathe.
"God, I want you so much, baby girl. If you don't want to go any further we need to calm down a bit."
"I want you too, Dyl. I want to make love so much, but I think we should wait a little longer."
Emily stroked her hand down Dylan's cheek. "I want it to be right. You understand?"
Dylan kissed her on the nose. "You're right, baby. I want this to last for a long time and I want it to be the right time for both of us."
"Thank you."
Taking Emily's hand Dylan said, "Come on Emmie, I'll show you around before bed."
***************************************************************************
Emily awoke to an empty bed. Last night she decided to share the large king size bed with her daughter in case she woke up and didn't know where she was.
She heard squeals and laughter coming from somewhere.
Dylan must have her. Hmm! Dyl. Emily felt her stomach clench as she remember touching her new girlfriend last night.
Dylan you came so close to getting lucky. Mmm. I love her body. I think when we do go to bed, I might faint! She's so strong and well built. That stomach! Argh! Enough. Get up; you're going to drive yourself crazy!
Emily got up and followed the noise. She found herself at the door of the game room where she saw her daughter, still in her pyjamas, sword fighting on the Wii against Dylan, who was still in her boxers and t-shirt.
Emily laughed as her daughter shouted, "I get ou, Dien! I knock ou off!" As Dylan's character fell dramatically into the water, so did the big woman, falling just as dramatically onto the floor.
"Ugh! The Smurf got me! I'm dead!"
Molly heard her Mother laughing. "Mama! Me knock Dien off! I love pwaying Wii!"
Emily kissed her daughter on the head. "I bet you do, I think Dylan likes it too."
Dylan got up and looking slightly embarrassed said, "Uh, I always wake up early and I saw Molls was awake so I thought we could play."
Emily walked over and gave her a kiss. "You are such a goof! Thanks for taking care of her. She's never played video games before."
"Yeah she really loves it; she discovered the games on my iPhone as well."
"Oh be careful! I'd hate for her to break it, it's so expensive."
"It's fine, don't worry, I get them for free."
"You do?"
"Yeah I do a lot advertising with Apple." Dylan said, as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
"Okay ... Listen, how about I make us all breakfast. You said Lynn bought you some food?"
"Yeah she did but you don't have to, I mean I could take us out for breakfast."
"I like to cook, you always pay for everything and this is one thing I can do. I like looking after you both and in any case your kitchen is to die for!"
"Well, please, knock yourself out."
"Sweetie, you make sure Dylan behaves while Mommy makes breakfast."
"I will, Mama. You be good, Dien!" Molly said seriously.
Dylan grabbed the little girl and tickled her mercilessly. "I can be good, Smurf! Here comes the tickle monster!"
Emily smiled and left both giggling and laughing.
***************************************************************************
About 20 minutes later, Dylan decided she was missing the blonde too much.
"Hey Smurf, I'll be back in a few minutes. You can play some games on my phone, but remember only the games in the kid folder I made for you."
"Okay Dien. I will."
"Good girl."
Dylan headed off to the kitchen. She found Emily at the stove making pancakes. She walked up behind the blonde and wrapped her arms around her waist.
Emily turned in her arms. "I thought you were playing games?"
"I missed you too much and I didn't get a proper good morning kiss." The big woman pouted.
"We'll have to rectify that then." Emily pulled Dylan down, her hands wrapped around her neck, kissing Dylan thoroughly.
"Mmm. That's what I call a kiss, baby. Do you know how good it feels to have you both here? You've made this lonely big place feel warm and happy."
"I'm glad, we're happy to be here. Now go and get your little playmate and I'll serve breakfast."
"Okay." Dylan's faced seemed to beam with happiness. She leaned over and kissed Emily's nose, then went to get Molly.
When they returned, Emily had piled the kitchen table with delicious smelling food.
"Wow, this is great." Dylan looked and saw a huge pile of pancakes, plates of bacon, eggs and lots of toast.
"Dig in, Dyl. Would you like some of everything, Molls?"
"Yes pease, Mama."
Dylan looked on at the quiet domesticity around her kitchen table and it made her heart swell with happiness.
This is what I've been looking for. Family.
I want this. Don't fuck it up, Morgan!
Emily looked up from her own plate and saw Dylan just looking at them strangely. Not unhappily but something she couldn't put her finger on.
"Are you okay? What are you thinking, Dyl?"
Dylan was broken from her contemplation. "I'm fine. Just thinking how happy I am, Emmie." She smiled warmly at the blonde.
"I'm glad. Eat up or it'll get cold."
Dylan wolfed down the food on her plate and Emily was sure she didn't stop for breath for a full five minutes.
"Oh! Emmie, this is just delicious. Your pancakes are something else."
"Mama is good at cooking," Molly said proudly.
"She sure is, Smurf. Emmie, can I tell her about today?"
Emily smiled and nodded.
"Guess where we're going today, Smurf?"
"Where?! Where Dien?"
"Well. You know the movie you like? Night at the Museum?"
"Yeah? Dum dum! Rexie!"
"Well were gonna take you there today, to visit Dum dum and Rexie and Dextor. Would you like that?"
Molly jumped as quick as a flash from her seat and into Dylan's arms.
"Yeah Dien! Thank ou! Love ou."
"Love you too, Smurf."
As Dylan cuddled the little girl she looked up to Emily who mouthed, "Thank you."
"Come and finish your breakfast, sweetie, or we'll never get there."
"Yes Mama."
"I was looking on the net this morning and they've got a cool restaurant suited for kids called the Starlight Cafe, we could get some lunch there. What do you think?"
"Sounds great. Let's eat up and get ready."
***************************************************************************
"You girls ready?" Dylan shouted into the bedroom.
"Just about. Give us five minutes, Dyl."
"Come on sweetie, we need to hurry." Emily had struggled to get the excited little girl ready.
"Which bottoms, Molls? Jeans with sparkles or purple pants?"
"Sparkly jeans." As Emily got her ready Molly said, "Mama?"
"What sweetie?"
"Love Dien. She's funny."
"She is. I'm glad you like her. I hope we'll spend lots of time with her."
"Ou love her, Mama?"
What do I tell her? She's so innocent. I don't want her to get her hopes up and then it doesn't work out between us. I can't lie to her.
"Well that's complicated grown-up stuff sweetie, but can you keep a secret?" The little girl nodded.
"I think I do love her, Molls, but I'm just not ready to tell her yet. If things work out I'll tell her soon, okay?"
"Otay." Molly smiled.
"Right, shoes on and let's go."
Mother and daughter came into the living room to find Dylan, as usual, playing with her phone.
"Do you ever put that thing down, Dyl?" Emily smirked.
"Emmie, this thing organizes my entire life. I love it!" she said giving her phone a big kiss.
"You're such a goof!"
"That's what they tell me. So are Mama Smurf and Baby Smurf ready?"
"We are. I like the hat." Emily smiled. Dylan had her collar length dark hair hidden underneath a black oversized G-Star beanie hat.
"Thanks, this is my incognito look. I don't want to be recognized and bother you two. I can't really get away with the sunglasses in winter though."
Emily walked over and looked Dylan up and down. She was dressed in designer slouchy jeans and hooded sweatshirt.
"That's one of the things I really like about you, honey. You dress really nice and take care of your appearance."
Dylan moved her lips to within inches of Emily's. "I've gotta look good for my girl, haven't I?" Then their lips met in a gentle kiss.
"Mama! Dien! No kwisses! Dum dum and saurs!"
Emily smiled at Dylan's look of frustration. "Come on then, TV star. Let's move it."
"Alright Smurf, just for that here comes the tickle monster!" The big woman chased the happy girl around the room for a few minutes before saying, "Okay, Smurf, I give in. Jump up and let's go. We got suars to see!"
The three made their way down to Dylan's car and set off for the day.
***************************************************************************
They had a great day at the museum. Dylan carried Molly everywhere on her shoulders and Emily wished her little girl could have had a second parent like the TV star from the time she was born. Even with the hat on, Dylan was still recognized wherever they went but everyone was respectful of Emily and Molly's privacy when asking for pictures.
They had said a reluctant farewell that evening, promising to phone each other the next day. Emily was working the day shift and Dylan had training with the guys.
Dylan sat down at the kitchen table about to drink her protein shake and check the papers before heading out to the gym.
She switched the TV on the wall to the morning news show.
She noticed right away that her Twitter messages had gone mad overnight for some reason. Just as she opened the app to check, she heard from the TV ...
"
And joining us is our showbiz correspondent Sarah Jones. Well Sarah, there's only one story on everyone lips this morning."
"You're right, Brad. It seems that one of America's most eligible women is off the market. The story broke this morning in the newspapers and on the internet that famous lesbian TV star Dylan Morgan has been snapped up."
Dylan dropped her protein shake on the floor.
"Shit!"
"Dylan has always been very open about being gay and has attended many events with actresses and singers, but none have captured Ms. Morgan's eye. But this morning we've read reports and seen pictures of Dylan spending family days out at the zoo and the Natural History Museum with her new girlfriend, Emily Taylor, and her young daughter. They were also been spotted on the set of The Dylan Morgan Show, where we understand from insiders that Emily was introduced to the staff as Dylan's partner."
The TV screen showed Dylan carrying a sleeping Molly from the studio and holding Emily's hand.
"But more than that Brad, it's a bit of a Cinderella story. Miss Taylor works as a waitress for a local restaurant called 'Jimmy's Diner.' According to the newspapers, they met after Dylan stopped by the diner for a late night snack and fell in love. Miss Taylor is a single mother who has struggled for years on a low income to bring up her daughter on her own. Sources close to Miss Morgan tell me they are worried Emily Taylor is fortune hunter and have warned the TV star about the young waitress. Brad, I prefer to think that true love has struck the couple, and who knows? Maybe we'll have the next big gay wedding right here in New York."
"Who knows, Sarah. We wish them well. Now let's go over to the weather."
"Shit! Fuck! What's Emmie gonna say!" Dylan grabbed her phone to call her when an incoming call came from Lynn.
"Did you just see that, Lynn?" Dylan shouted.
"See it? It's all over the papers; the phones at the studio are going crazy. I got a call telling me that the press are laying in wait outside the diner, waiting for her to appear. It seems to have caught everyone's imagination. The rags to riches story. The ordinary woman who snagged a worldwide TV star."
"Shit. I'll call her right now. Who the fuck are these sources close to me warning about me about her intentions?" Dylan ranted.
"Calm down, Dylan. It may take time but we'll sort it out. I have no idea who the sources could be but I can't imagine it being any of your studio staff. I had a call from the network; they want a sit down with you in the next few days. They've set up focus groups to find out the public reaction to you being in gay relationship."
"What the hell for? I never hid the fact that I'm gay, they've always been fine with it."
"You were always a single gay woman before, and it suited them for publicity's sake that your were seen out and about at premieres and parties with actresses and models. This is a relationship, a serious relationship, with a poor single mother."
"What?"
"That's not what I think Dylan, you know me. That's what they'll be thinking. Don't worry about that just now. Your popularity is sky high and worldwide at the moment, and your contract is watertight. Just meet with them calmly and see what they have to say."
Dylan took a deep calming breath.
"Okay. You're right, as usual. I'll call Emmie now and get back to you. Speak to you soon."
Dylan ended the call and dialed Emily's apartment.
"No answer, shit!"
She quickly redialed her PA. "Lynn? I can't get an answer. I'm going to drive over there. Can you phone Mark and Patrick for me and tell them I won't be training today?"
"No problem. Anything else?"
"Yeah I want you to organize a delivery for me ..."
***************************************************************************
Meanwhile, Emily had just dropped Molly off with Mrs. Hill who lived one floor up in her apartment block. Emily was running late this morning, after their full day yesterday she found it hard to get Molly up and ready. Emily hadn't had much time to chat but she was sure Mrs. Hill was acting a little funny this morning. Smiling a lot and telling her they would need to have a gossip when she picked up the little girl.
The blonde rushed down to the front of the building, hoping she wouldn't be late for work. When she opened the door, she was greeted by a barrage of cameras, flashes and voices shouting questions.
What the hell is going on?
She tried to cover her eyes from the flashes and push her way through.
"Miss Taylor, is it true your broke up Dylan Morgan and Katie Phillips' relationship?" one shouted. Another said, "Emily, when will you be moving in with Dylan?"
"What does Molly's father think about his daughter being brought up in a lesbian relationship?"
The questions were like machine gun fire as Emily tried to push her way through the crowd. When she made it out to the sidewalk, she felt her hand being grabbed.
"Let go!" she shouted and struggled as the press pack followed.
"Emmie, it's me, jump in the car now!"
"Dylan? Thank God you're here."
The TV star had parked on the side of the street and they both raced to get into the large jeep.
Once they were safely in, Dylan said, "Buckle up. I'll get us out of here."
As Dylan drove, Emily was silent with shock.
She looks terrified. Shit! I need to sort this out.
Dylan drove right across town and pulled into the parking lot under her condo.
"What are you doing, Dylan? I need to get to work."
Dylan turned around in her seat and took her hand. "Listen Emmie, the diner is packed with press waiting for you. There's no way you could go in today."
Emily looked angry and panicky as she replied, "If I don't go to work, I don't get paid and Molly and I don't eat!" Emily put her head in her hands.
"Please calm down. I got Lynn to call your boss, he's quite happy for you to take a week's paid vacation to get things sorted out. As I said, the diner's packed with press guys and customers hoping to get a glimpse of you. So he's happily making money."
"What are we going to do, Dylan? This is my life here?"
"Let me go back and pick up Molly, and you can stay here until things die down a bit. It won't last forever, we're just a novelty. To put it in perspective, it's only ten reporters at your house and work. I've had to put up with a lot worse."
"Maybe you have, but this is all new to me and this feels like a huge deal. Molly and I have gone from having no one but each other, to having you and a city full of reporters. I can't just uproot my daughter's life because the press won't leave me alone. I don't know how I can live my life like this, go to work like this." Emily's tears fell down her cheeks.
How am I going to live without you?
Dylan stared straight ahead, suddenly feeling sick as she said, "If it's what you want, I'll ask Lynn to issue a statement saying we are no longer together. The press should lose interest in a few weeks."
Emily looked at her in shock. "Is that what you want, Dylan? I thought ..."
"No! It's not what I want," Dylan said a bit too forcefully. "I want you. You and Molly. I thought you said you couldn't live with this?"
"I was just scared, Dylan, I don't want to lose you. I've never felt like this before about anyone, but we haven't known each other that long and I guess I'm afraid I could end up facing this alone. It's a lot to gamble."
Dylan stroked her cheek. "I want you, both of you, for as long as you want me. You should see from my track record that I don't go into things lightly. It's true that we haven't known each other long but my heart knows you. My heart knows I love you, it has from the moment I met you but I was afraid of scaring you. I love you Emily Taylor, and I love your little girl. Please let us make this work?"
She loves me? Do I make that leap? It's now or never, Emily.
"I love you, Dylan Morgan. I want to make this work."
Dylan pressed her lips against Emily's, sheer relief coursing through her body.
"Thank you, baby girl. I won't ever make you regret it. I promise."
"I think you're a safe bet, Goofy," Emily said pulling the big woman into a hug.
"Will you come and stay with me then?"
"No."
"No? But I thought ..."
"I need to be able to handle this to be in your life, Dyl. I just got scared this morning. I mean, what's the worst that can happen? They ask me questions and take my picture? I think I'm made of sterner stuff than that."
Dylan smiled. "You are amazing. Just remember to keep the Smurf's face covered okay? Will you consider living with me when you're ready?"
"Of course I will, honey. We just need a little more time. I'm very independent and people might think I'm after your money."
"I don't care what people think."
"I know. We'll get there. Just a little more time."
Dylan kissed her on the lips.
"Okay. That's all I ask. I love you guys."
"So I'll take today off and go back in tomorrow."
Dylan took Emily's hand. "I'll agree on one condition."
"What's that?"
Dylan turned and grabbed a package from the backseat.
"This is the condition. Open it."
Emily pulled a box from the bag and found an iPhone."
"Dylan no ..."
"No, I won't hear any argument. It's on my account so you don't have to worry about bills, and you can get any games the Smurf wants to play. It's for your safety. This morning I couldn't get hold of you, and I need to know you can call me if you're being hassled or don't feel safe. Okay?"
Emily guessed she was going to have to give in on this.
"Alright!" she sighed.
"Good, now that you have the day off, why don't we go upstairs, order in lunch, I'll show how to use that thing and we can snuggle?"
"Excellent. I told you, you're not just a handsome face."
Dylan flashed her best grin. "I'll take you to pick up Molls later."
***************************************************************************
"How did they even know, Dyl?" asked Emily as they ate their lunch.
Dylan had ordered lunch from the kitchen in the apartment building.
"Most of the other reporters and paparazzi don't bother unless I'm out at an event because, basically, nothing was going on in my life, but when my brother Joey was having his problems, he was all over the press. Parties, guys, alcohol and, in the end, drugs. When he died, a reporter named Jimmy Daniels wrote a really cruel piece about him. He bribed one of the crime scene guys to get pictures of ..."
Dylan gulped and ran a hand through her dark hair.
"Take your time, honey. I'm listening."
""Uh ... pictures of how he was found. Dead. He published them."
"That low down bastard!" Emily fumed.
"Yeah, I know. When I saw it, I went straight to the newspaper office to kill him. If I had found him, I think I really would have. He wasn't there, but a very heated conversation with the editor later, he was fired. I threatened to throw every lawyer under the sun at them unless Jimmy took the fall. He's freelance now, sells his gutter stories and pictures to the highest bidder. Every since I got him fired he's followed me around, waiting for me to make one wrong move. It has to have been him."
"I'm so sorry you had to go through that, Dyl. We won't let him win, what's he got on us anyway? We're just a new happy, loving couple. I'll get used to the attention and I won't let it stop my life." Emily said defiantly.
"Thank you baby. You're amazing."
***************************************************************************
"Sam, I need you to keep digging on the kid's father."
"But we got the story, Jimmy? We broke it and made a ton of cash, why not just leave it?"
"It's not enough. I need Dylan Morgan hurt, embarrassed, all of the above. I know there's a story there, so keep digging. My contact came up with nothing."
"Okay! Okay, I will. I'll get back to you."
Click
***************************************************************************
The next morning arrived and Emily was preparing to face the press and the public at work.
Dylan insisted on taking her to work and Emily reluctantly agreed, as she realized there would be nowhere to hide from the cameras on public transportation, and Dylan assured her the press interest would calm down.
Her new partner arrived early and played with Molly while Emily got ready.
"Okay, it's now or never. Let's drop Molly off and get going," said Emily nervously.
Dylan stood and gently caressed the side of her girlfriend's face.
"Okay. Now remember what I said, just keep walking straight ahead and don't reply to any questions no matter how much they annoy you. I'll keep them back. Remember, if this is too much for you, going to work with this entire circus, we'll work something out okay?"
"I'll be fine honey, this is my life, and they're not going to stop me. Let's go."
They dropped Molly off and made their way to the front door. Dylan looked at Emily and said, "You ready?"
The young woman took a deep breath.
Come on Emily. She's worth it. You can do this.
"As I'll ever be!"
Dylan opened the door and they were immediately bombarded with a barrage of flashes and questions.
Emily felt herself be bodily maneuvered by Dylan and virtually thrown into the car.
"We made it! You okay, Emmie?" asked Dylan.
Emily tried to catch her breath. "Well you certainly got me through that crowd!"
"Sorry if I was a bit rough, baby. I just wanted to get you through quickly."
"Its fine, it's fine. Let's get going before I'm late."
As they drove over Emily asked, "What time is your meeting with the network?"
"10 o'clock."
"Will you be okay? Could they fire you or anything?" Emily worried.
"Well, they could simply not offer me a new contract when it comes up, but I own the production company and the rights to the show, so they couldn't actually fire me."
Dylan rested her hand on Emily's leg. "Don't worry, everything will be fine. If worst comes to worst, I'll survive. I've made enough money through my salary, rights to the show in other countries and advertisements that I don't need to ever work again."
Whoa! thought Emily. "Really?"
"Yeah but don't worry. It won't come to that."
"Will you call me when you get out of the meeting so I won't worry?"
"Of course. Look, were nearly there. Are you sure you want to go in by yourself?"
"Yes, I'll be fine. You'll just cause more attention."
"Maybe." Dylan pulled over at the sidewalk.
"Quick! Give me a kiss before the photographers notice?" asked Dylan.
Emily leaned over and kissed the big woman's lips.
"Mmm. I'll never get enough of that."
"I hope not, TV star! I better go. I'll miss you."
"You too, Mama Smurf. Be careful, any problems, you just call me. I'll be here in a flash. I love you."
Emily smiled. "I love you too, honey. Well, here I go. Wish me luck!"
Dylan watched as Emily jumped out of the Jeep and made her way through the cameras.
"To put up with that, you're definitely a keeper, baby."
***************************************************************************
Emily made her way into the diner in one piece and Maggie helped her through to the back room.
"Well Miss Taylor, you've been busy! This place has never seen so many customers."
Emily cringed. "I'm sorry about all this, Maggie. It wasn't planned you know. We just met and connected and ..."
"Don't you worry, young lady. This place could do with a little livening up, and you've certainly done that. Tom is over the moon."
"Oh ... okay."
"Listen, it'll be fine but you should probably stay in the kitchen for a bit, just until things die down or you'll just get bothered all the time. We'll manage and look at it this way, you've probably saved our jobs. The diner couldn't have gone on much longer without an upturn in business. So you just enjoy yourself, okay? Are you happy?"
Emily beamed. "I've never been happier, Maggie, she's wonderful, kind and Molly loves her."
"Good. You deserve it. Now let me go and see to that rabble out there. I'll say one thing for reporters, they're great tippers!"
The two women laughed.
***************************************************************************
Lynn met Dylan at the door to the studios. "Morning. How was everything today?"
"Still crazy. So, do you think I still have a TV show?" Dylan asked, only half serious.
"Of course you do. You're the biggest draw this network has, if they didn't have the advertising your show generates they'd be up shit creek!"
Dylan laughed; it was so unusual to hear the older woman swear.
"I guess so."
"Oh, Mike said there's no need to head over to the network office, a video conference will be fine."
"Hmm. Okay." S
trange. I thought they wanted to bust my balls?
They made their way to Dylan's office. "How's Emily coping with it?" Lynn asked.
Dylan sat at her desk and said, "She was kinda freaked out at the start. It's a big spotlight to throw yourself and your child into, you know. I tried to get her to take time away from work and stay with me so I could protect her a bit, but she's so independent, she insists it's too soon."
"Well that's a good thing, Dylan; at least you know she's not with you for the fame and money."
"I already knew that!" the big woman said a little too sharply.
Dylan, you're like a daughter to me, and because of that it's my job to point these things out, no matter how much you don't want to hear it."
Dylan looked up at her and smirked. "You're right. Do I have your approval then?"
"You do. She seems like a good young girl and that daughter of hers is a poppet."
"She is. I can't believe how much I love them both so much, so quickly. It was meant to be, I guess."
"Your heart was just waiting on the right one. She'll be good for you, Dylan. You've been alone too long. You need looking after, maybe now I won't have to chase you to eat meals and get some sleep!"
"Okay! Okay! I know I've got a good thing going and I'll make sure I don't mess it up. Let's head out and see the big bosses."
***************************************************************************
Dylan answered the conference on her MacBook. "Morgan! How you doing, buddy?"
Mike Taylor, the network's head of entertainment, appeared on the screen.
Well. This is different!
"I'm fine, Mike. How are you?"
"Just fine, just fine. Listen, I just wanted a quick word after this week's events."
"Let me just stop you before you go any further, Mike. Emily is my partner and is not negotiable. I will not stand for any pressure on my relationship from the network."
"Whoa! Calm down there, Morgan! It's nothing like that. Your private life is your business. The network would just like me to talk it over with you. We ran some polls with the viewers and your numbers are even higher than they were before. The audience loves the rags to riches story of the poor single mother swept off her feet by the knight in shining armor TV star. They're lapping it up!"
"Okay? So what are you asking me to do?" Dylan knew there was something coming.
"Nothing! Why would you think that?" the TV exec blustered.
"Because you always have an angle, Mike."
"There's no angle. We just wanted you to know we're fine with this relationship and you should feel free to mention your girlfriend during the show if you want."
There it is.
"You want me to use my relationship for publicity?"
"No! How could you think that? We're just saying feel free to talk about her if you're so inclined. The public loves it!! We just didn't want you worried that you had to hide it."
"I wasn't worried, Mike. It's my life and I know how important this show is to the network."
Mike cleared his throat nervously. "Yeah we know that, Morgan, but it reflects well on the network, in this day and age ... well you know."
"Know what?" Dylan knew exactly what Mike meant. The network now had their very own lesbian poster couple.
"Oh hell Morgan! You know what I mean. Your kind of couple makes us look modern, in touch with things."
"I do know what you mean. You've got your own lesbian couple just like all the other shows. I don't know, but I think I should be insulted."
"Morgan, give me a break okay?"
"Okay. If it seems natural and right I will, but Emily is a very private person so I have to respect her wishes."
"Alright. We can live with that. I'll let you get back to business then. Bye Morgan."
"See ya, Mike."
Well that was different!
***************************************************************************
As it turned out, Dylan only made a mild reference to Emily in the Friday show. Starting her show with the line,
"Well. I don't know about you guys but I've had a quite week! I've recently developed a craving for diner food."
The audience whooped and laughed at being let in on the joke.
The next few weeks went by quickly. The publicity didn't die down completely, as Dylan had tried to reassure her girlfriend it would, but the number of photographers did lessen and Emily was becoming much better at handling them, getting on a first name basis with some and learning the lesson that if you gave them a shot they'd be more inclined to respect your privacy.
Dylan and Emily's relationship went from strength to strength, each spending as much time as possible with the other. They had yet to become intimate, Emily wanting to wait for the right time, but shared some very heated kisses and touches that were becoming increasingly difficult not to take any further. To Dylan's delight Emily and Molly spent every weekend with her. She had never been happier than when coming home from the studio to her two favorite girls. It felt like family.
Emily's work was becoming increasingly difficult. Tom had agreed to give her only day shifts, as Dylan insisted it wouldn't be safe to be alone at the diner at night now that she was so well known. Tom had eagerly agreed to any changes, as the customers Dylan and Emily's notoriety was bringing in was saving the business.
Dylan felt it couldn't go on forever though. Emily had been relegated to working the kitchen after a few unsavory incidents with Dylan's more enthusiastic fans. A couple in particular had been quite unpleasant. They felt jealous at the young woman stealing Dylan away, as one put it.
They still hadn't had a date night on their own, both being reluctant to leave Molly for the night, but they decided to take the opportunity of going to a film premiere that Dylan had been invited to on the coming Tuesday. Lynn was having her grandchildren to stay and suggested that Molly could stay over with them. Emily felt comfortable leaving her with Lynn, after getting to know the woman over the past month and a half.
The Saturday morning before the premiere, Dylan and Molly were sitting on the couch playing with Dylan's iPad, while waiting for Emily as she got ready to go shopping.
After initial reluctance, Emily agreed to allow Dylan to buy her an outfit for the premiere. The young blonde realized she would never be able to afford something suitable and she didn't want to risk embarrassing Dylan.
"Dien?" Molly looked up at her favorite playmate.
"What is it Smurf?"
"Me go to premer?"
The big woman laughed gently at how the little girl struggled with the word.
"I'm sorry Molls, this is a big person film. But I tell you what, the very next kid film that comes out, I'll get us tickets and take you out for a new outfit just like your Mama. How's that?"
Molly jumped on Dylan's lap and threw her little arms around the big woman's neck.
"Thank ou Dien! I love ou."
Just then Emily came out from the bedroom smiling. "Hey, what are all the loving cuddles about?"
"Me and the Smurf just fixing up a date for the next kid film premiere."
"Yeah, a date Mama."
"Great, will you let me come too?"
"Sure Mama. You come, too." Molly said seriously.
Dylan stood and grabbed Emily around the waist and growled into her neck. "I love you in these jeans, baby!"
"I aim to please, honey. We ready to go?"
"Yeah. I figured we take cabs so we didn't have to worry about parking. If you get the Smurfs coat on, I'll call down and ask Morris to grab us a one."
Emily pulled Dylan back by the arm. "Honey, are you sure you're going to be warm enough in this? I know were only just into October but it's starting to get cold."
Dylan had on a blue ski vest worn over a sweatshirt, with her usual beanie hat and designer jeans.
The TV star felt a warm glow inside at the concern her girlfriend was showing.
"Yes Mother! Hey, I'm naturally warm bloodied. Come on, baby girl."
***************************************************************************
The three had an amusing cab ride. The Indian driver instantly recognized the tall woman and proceeded to list dares he thought she should do.
Emily smiled as she watched her girlfriend banter easily back and forth with the man, making him feel he was listened to and appreciated.
"I'll be sure to mention that to the producers, buddy. Thanks for the ride," Dylan said, shutting the taxi door.
"Boy! He could talk." She held onto Molly tightly as they walked away from the curb.
"You weren't doing too badly yourself, honey. I don't understand how you can be so shy and then as soon as it has to do with work, you're like super confident."
Dylan shrugged. "I don't know. Just happens I guess. So where do we start?"
"I've never shopped on Fifth Avenue, Dyl," Emily said.
"We'll I've never bought a dress here before, but there always seems to be nice ones in Gucci and Prada, oh and there's Saks."
"Dyl ..."
The big woman saw the uncomfortable look on her girlfriend's face and wanted to put a stop to it right away.
"Look, we've discussed this. You're going to a premiere, as my girlfriend, and for that you need the right outfit. I have no one else in this world to spend my money on, just let me treat you and Molls the way I want. Okay?"
Emily looked at the woman holding on to her little girl. She knew instinctively that her kindness was not about showing off or trying to control her, but simply to care for both Molly and herself, and enjoy making them happy.
"Okay. Lead on then."
Dylan beamed and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. Just as she did a flash went off across the street.
"They're never far away are they?" said Emily, pulling away from the kiss.
"I'm afraid not but they won't get into the stores. Come on, Smurf!" Dylan lifted the little girl up onto her shoulders.
"Yeah Dien! I like it up here."
"I know, now you be a good girl while we find Mama a dress and I'll take you into F.A.O Schwartz for a toy."
Molly hugged her arms round Dylan's neck a little too tightly.
"Thank ou Dien."
Turning to Emily, Dylan said. "I'll keep her up here so I know where she is, it gets very busy around here. Now let's start at Saks."
They were casually looking through dresses when one of the sales assistants noticed Dylan. They were then whisked off to a personal shopper's area. Dylan and Molly got to munch on cookies, coffee and juice while dress after dress was brought to Emily. The young woman put on a beautiful black dress and walked out to the couch area.
"What do you think?"
Dylan's heart seemed to pound faster each time Emily walked out in a new dress.
You were just born to wear these things.
"I think it's beautiful but I think all the dresses you've tried are beautiful. What do you think, Smurf?"
"Rweally Pretty!"
You are great for a girl's ego, Dylan Morgan, thought Emily.
"Your daughter has good taste, Ms. Morgan," Lisa, the personal shopper added.
Dylan looked at Emily, a little embarrassed. "Uh ... no, Molly is Miss Taylor's daughter."
"Oh, I'm so sorry. She just looks so much like you."
Emily beamed at Dylan. She was delighted others could see what she had seen from the very start.
"Can I ask what you will be wearing, Ms. Morgan?" asked Lisa.
"Ah. Black three piece suit, white shirt."
"Well may I suggest something other than black? It would be nice to have a contrast. I could put a few more selections together?"
"I tell you what, we wanted to have a look around some other places but why don't we take some of the dresses you liked, 'cause your gonna need them for other things we'll go to."
Emily was hesitant but it did make sense. She wanted to look good on Dylan's arm.
Does she realize these things are a couple of thousand dollars each? thought Emily.
"Okay. Thank you. Um ... I think I'll take the black and the green ones."
"May I suggest some lingerie selections for your choices?" Lisa asked.
Now that's what I'm talking about! thought Dylan. They had yet to become fully intimate and the big woman hoped it was coming soon because just kissing and being close to Emily was driving her crazy. At the same time she knew she had to show patience, Emily was by nature very careful, especially after being burned by her ex, Toni.
What an idiot! Having Emmie, a pregnant Emmie at that, and letting her go. I will never give her any reason to leave me. I'm not that stupid. Nu uh! No way!
Dylan's thoughts were interrupted by Emily saying, "Dyl, is that okay?"
"Oh sure, why don't the Smurf and I go look around the children's department while you get sorted. Just call me when you're ready and I'll meet you at the check out."
"Okay. Molly, you be good for Dylan."
"Yeah Mama."
Emily's heart melted as she watched the two happily trot off together.
***************************************************************************
"Are you sure this is okay? I thought it would be the best place for Molls."
They were sitting in TGI Fridays, just about to order. Dylan had met Emily back at the checkout carrying a couple of bags of things for Molly. A few pairs of designer jeans, tops and some cute little Gucci snow boots. She didn't mention how much they cost. They then made their way to the Gucci store where Emily found the perfect dress, an off-white strapless gown that gathered at the side. Emily had such fun choosing and she had been treated so well, but she had no doubt that probably wouldn't have been the case if she had gone in herself. So now they found themselves in TGI's for lunch.
"Of course it's okay for us honey, but is it for you? I mean you're always taking us to places to suit Molls, maybe you would have liked something better."
"Nah, I'm a burger and fries type of girl like Molly here. Besides there'll be plenty of time for us to go to fancy restaurants."
"Yes, I think we need that. I hope Molls gets on well with Lynn and her grandchildren, if she does maybe we could do that again and have some alone time."
"Yeah, Lynn's great with kids. I'm sure she'll have a great time."
After they placed their order, Emily asked, "What are you doing? You know, I think it's attached to your hand."
Dylan looked up from her phone with a cheesy grin."I'm on Twitter telling everyone what a wonderful day I'm having."
"Oh, what did you say?"
"I said,
Having a wonderful day, shopping with my two girls."
Emily reached over and took Dylan's big hand. "You are just the sweetest person I have ever met. I don't know why you weren't snapped up years ago."
"No one was you." Dylan lifted her hand and kissed it tenderly.
"Is it that simple?"
"Yes, it is to me. No one ever made me feel like you do. As soon as I started talking to you, I knew you were right for me. You don't mind me talking about you on this do you?"
"No, I think it's nice that you want to be open about us."
"Good. Cause I want to shout it from the rooftops!"
They enjoyed a good meal with lots of laughs. Emily was so glad Molly had her; the little girl had never had as much fun in her young life until she met Dylan. The big woman acted like a big kid and Molly loved it.
All through the meal, people kept coming up asking for autographs and pictures. Sometimes Emily forgot just how famous Dylan was, but she was always polite and respectful as long as they didn't take pictures that included Molly and herself. Molly at first thought it was fun but then started to get a little jealous of seeing strangers taking her playmate's attention.
"Dien?" Molly looked up from her ice cream sundae.
"Yeah Smurf?"
"Why those people always want to get a picture?"
Dylan looked a little forlornly at Emily. How do you explain fame to a little girl? "Well, uh..."
Emily jumped in. "You know that Dylan works on the TV, sweetie?"
Molly nodded. "Well everybody watches Dylan's show and they really like it. So when they see her they're really excited, but you're lucky, you get to spend lots of time on your own with Dylan so it's not too bad to let some people talk to her for a few minutes is it?"
Molly thought hard and when she realized she must be special to have so much of Dylan's time, she smiled smugly.
"It's otay, Mama."
"Good girl." Emily patted her daughter's cheek.
"Hey Molls, guess what I'm doing on the show this week?"
"What?! What?!"
"It's an eating challenge. I have to eat yucky stuff like insects and rat's tails and eyeballs."
"Cool!!" she said excitedly.
Emily looked rather pale. "You're kidding me. You'd really do that?"
"Yeah, it's my job."
"Well forget kissing me with those lips after."
"Aww Emmie! No kisses for your honey?" Dylan said in a baby voice.
"No! Not one."
Dylan lifted her hand and gently stroked down Emily's arm, making her shiver, and then looked at her straight in the eyes.
"Baby girl, you won't be able to resist me."
Emily lost herself in Dylan's gaze. Only to be interrupted by the server coming to clear their plates.
"Can I get you anything else?"
"No, thank you, just the bill," Dylan replied.
They made their way back home, Dylan looking a lot like a packhorse under all their bags.
Molly ran off to the bedroom to play with a toy Dylan had got her and Emily took the opportunity of getting the dark haired woman alone.
She pulled Dylan towards her and kissed her passionately. When they parted she said, "I need to thank you for a wonderful day. I've never had the chance to try on beautiful clothes like that, much less buy them. It was magical. And the clothes you bought Molly were so cute. You spoil us too much."
"Emmie. I've worked hard, really hard, to achieve the career that I have but for as much as I enjoy it, I would come back here to loneliness and silence. With you two in my life, everything is now joyful, a trip to the museum, a trip to the shops. I love to spend my money on you both, I now realize why being successful matters because I want to build a life with you two. A family. All that I've achieved was for a reason, so I could have the means to look after what I hope will be my family. I know you want to take things slow, but I know I want us to be together properly, with you both living here with me. And I promise you will never want for anything again."
Emily closed her eyes, taking in this emotional statement. "I want that too, we'll get there. It's just hard for me, I've been so independent for so long. Just give me some time."
Leaning in for a kiss, Dylan said, "I'd wait forever, baby girl. I love you."
***************************************************************************
Tuesday arrived. Emily had gotten two days vacation from the diner so she could enjoy getting ready and not worry about work the next day. Her boss was only too happy to help these days because of the increased business due to her newfound celebrity.
Dylan had picked them up Monday evening to stay over
.
While Emily
was relaxing
in Dylan's big whirlpool tub, her partner was entertaining Molly in the game room. She could hear the squeals and laughter from there, even though Dylan had set some relaxing music to play through the bathroom speakers.
Lynn was coming over in the next hour to pick up Molly. The little girl didn't seem phased by going to stay with Lynn and her grandkids, which surprised Emily as the girl hadn't mixed much with other children, but the prospect of getting to play with other kids had Molly very overexcited.
In the other room, a game on the Xbox had descended into a tickle fight on the floor.
"Dien! Ha! Ha! I beat you again!" Molly giggled uncontrollably.
"You beat me, you little monkey! No one beats Dylan at a dare!"
Emily cleared her throat.
Dylan looked up to see Emily standing in the doorway, arms crossed, only in a robe with her hair tied up in a towel.
Oh my god she looks adorable. What I wouldn't give to slowly open that ... Agh! Don't go there! You'll drive yourself crazy.
"Well, what are you two up to?"
Molly jumped up and pulled her mother by the hand over to the TV.
"Mama! I beat Dien's Dare!"
"Oh? What was the dare?"
"We were playing this soccer game on the Xbox and I told her it was Dylan's Dare and the little Smurf whipped my butt!"
Dylan turned to Emily and winked. "Show your mama how to do it, Molls."
The little girl stood in front of the large screen TV and kicked an invisible ball. On the screen, the soccer ball flew past the goalkeeper into the net.
"Yeah! I score Mama!" Molly squealed.
"Well done, sweetie! Can Mama try?"
Molly nodded. "Just kick it hard, Mama."
Emily looked down at the floor in front of her. "Where's the ball though?"
"On the screen, baby. Look." Dylan lined her up with the ball on the screen.
"Now kick." She did and the ball went sailing well over the bar.
"Don't be sad, Mama. You'll do better." Molly patted her Mom, trying to make her better.
"Yeah Mama Smurf. You just need practice," said Dylan smiling.
Emily playfully slapped her on the arm. "Hey goofy! You behave. Technology is amazing these days isn't it? Molly has never played a game consoles like you have and she has just picked it up in no time."
"Kids are like that, it comes natural."
The intercom buzzed. "That'll be Lynn. I'll buzz her up."
"Okay. I'll grab Molly's overnight bag."
Dylan opened the door. "Hey Lynn! Come in. Emily's just getting Molly together."
"No problem. Charlie's got the kids at home. We thought we'd go to a movie, then dinner and tomorrow maybe the aquarium."
"That sounds great. Listen, use the company credit card for everything. Don't want you out of pocket for all that."
Dylan had accounts set up for a few trusted members of the production company for expenses and such. Lynn managed the account for Dylan and used it for sending gifts to guests, getting things for Dylan and any other expenses.
"Dylan, there's no need, we were taking Jamie and Suzy out anyway."
"Please, just use it and enjoy, you work so hard, you deserve it."
"Well if you say so. Everything is set up for tonight. Your car will pick you up around 5:30. I'm glad I don't have to find you a date anymore!" the older woman joked. Dylan smiled warmly and said, "Me too. I'll just go and check on the girls."
Dylan found Emily zipping up Molly's winter coat.
"Now remember sweetie, Mama put some money in your purse in your backpack if you want to buy anything."
"It's okay Emmie; Lynn is going to use the company credit card for everything. She thought they'd do a movie tonight then the aquarium tomorrow."
"Yeah! See the fishes, Mama!" said Molly excitedly.
"Oh. Are you sure?" Emily sounded a little worried.
"Yeah don't worry about anything. I'm sure it's tax deductible somewhere along the way."
"How could a visit to the aquarium be tax deductible for the Dylan Morgan Show?" Emily smirked.
The dark haired woman folded her arms across her chest and raised an eyebrow.
"Research for a dare. "Dylan hand feeds raw meat to sharks?"
"Yes. Whatever you say, honey. Okay. You got everything, Molls?"
Suddenly Emily's heart began to pound. It had always just been Molly and herself. Their lives were changing so fast and it was hard to let her daughter go off on her own.
"Yeah Mama."
"Okay, give me a hug. You do what Lynn tells you, okay?"
Dylan could see Emily had tears welling up in her eyes.
"Uh, why don't I take Molly out, Emmie?"
"Yes. Thanks, I ... think that would be best."
"Have fun at the premere, Mama."
"I will, sweetie."
Molly walked off hand in hand with Dylan, and when they were out of sight, the tears began to fall. Within minutes, Dylan was back. "Well Molly went off as happy as a little piglet in mud ... oh sweetheart. What's wrong?" She went straight over and took the young woman in her arms.
Emily cuddled into her chest. "I've never spent a night apart from her, its hard letting go. I know it's silly."
"It's not silly. Since she was born it's been you and Molly against the world. It's gonna take time before you realize there are people to help you now, and me to love you."
You're right. I'm so lucky to have found you."
"Before you get dressed, I know something that will cheer you up." Dylan took her hand and guided Emily to her own bedroom and got a black velvet rectangular box from a drawer.
"Something to go with your outfit." Dylan looked down at her shoes shyly.
"Dylan, what have you done?"
"Just open it."
Emily opened the box to find a platinum necklace with a solitaire diamond. In the center was a pair of matching earnings. The young woman looked at the gift in silence.
Dylan took the silence as displeasure.
Shit! I knew it was too much.
"Look. I'm sorry ..."
"No." Emily looked up at Dylan with tears in her eyes.
"I'm just overwhelmed. No one has ever cared for me the way you do. In such a short space of time, you have made me feel so loved. Thank you." Emily moved over to her girlfriend and kissed her tenderly. "I'll treasure these forever."
Dylan breathed a sigh of relief and pulled Emily close. "I was afraid you'd think it was too much."
"It's wonderful and I love you." Emily put her hand underneath Dylan's t-shirt and stroked her hard abs. "I think tonight is going to be magical." She pulled back and walked away with a sway to her hips. At the door she stopped and turned to see Dylan say, "Argh! Your gonna kill me baby, I just know you are!"
Emily winked and said, "I'm going to get ready. I suggest you do too, TV star."
I'm doomed! I know I am!
***************************************************************************
Dylan sat in the living room waiting for her girlfriend while nursing a scotch. This had always been her tradition for events she attended in the past. The prospect of spending the evening in the company of some actress or TV personality that Lynn chose never filled her with joy, making small talk was torturous. Tonight though, would be different. Dylan was excited about showing her girlfriend the bright lights and glamour of a showbiz event.
From the hallway, Emily watched Dylan lost in her thoughts.
She looks so good. I hope I'm not a disappointment, Emily thought. Her tall partner was wearing a three piece black suit with a crisp white shirt. Her thick dark hair hung simply just below her collar.
Emily took a deep breath and walked into the room. "Dylan?"
The big woman jumped up and turned. Her mouth hung open and she struggled to find the words to express how her girlfriend looked.
Emily took Dylan's silence as a negative. "If you don't like ..."
Dylan quickly walked over to her and said, "No. You look absolutely stunning. You take my breath away." Dylan peppered Emily's neck with tiny kisses, her libido kicking into overdrive. "Oh you smell so good!"
"Do you really like it?"
Dylan took a step back and looked her up and down. The off-white dress clung to her curves in all the right places.
"Baby girl, I will have the most beautiful woman on my arm tonight and be the envy of everyone one there."
Emily trailed her hand teasingly down the front of Dylan's chest, ending as she gave the big woman's belt a tug. "You look so handsome, honey; I could just eat you all up!"
"Ugh!" Dylan moaned. "Don't say things like that when we have to leave in ten minutes!"
Emily giggled at the clearly exasperated woman. "Poor baby! Maybe I can do something about that later."
Dylan growled as she kissed her way down her girlfriends arm. Emily loved the effect she could have on this big powerful woman.
"Honey could you get me a drink? I could use some Dutch courage before facing that red carpet!"
"Sure. What would you like? Whiskey, vodka, wine, champagne?" Dylan asked, walking to the kitchen.
"You have all that?" Emily followed her to the kitchen.
"Yeah. I like making cocktails and stuff. I'm not good at cooking but I am good with drinks."
"Um ... how about vodka, soda and lime?"
"Okay, give me a sec." Dylan got the drink together with a flourish.
Emily took a sip. "Hmm. Nice. I'd love to try some of your cocktails another time."
"Sure thing."
The door buzzer rang. "That'll be the car." Emily looked nervous as she gulped down the last of her drink.
Dylan took Emily's hands in hers. "Listen, you'll be fine. I'll look after you, just stick close and remember to enjoy yourself. I know I go on about not liking the showbiz lifestyle but going with you will be fun. Think of it as our coming out party."
"Okay. I'll try. I just feel like I have a school of fish swimming around in my stomach. Let's go, TV star!"
***************************************************************************
The long black limousine pulled up outside the Ziegfeld Theatre. Emily gripped Dylan's hand tightly as she heard the muted noise of the crowd and cries of the photographers.
While they were still in the quiet bubble of the car, Dylan took the opportunity to prepare her girlfriend for what was to come.
"When the door opens, noise and sound are gonna hit you. Just hold onto me and I'll guide you in. We have to stop for the photographers. Just smile and remember that I love you more than anything." Dylan leaned over and kissed her softly on the lips.
"I won't let you down, honey."
"You never could. Ready to face the masses?"
Emily took a deep breath. "As I'll ever be!"
Dylan knocked on the partition in front of them and within seconds the door was opened.
A wall of noise and flashes hit Emily.
Oh my god! The young blonde's heart pounded in her chest. She felt herself pulled from the car and suddenly they were there, in the thick of it. Shouts and calls seemed to come from everywhere.
"Dylan! Over here! Emily!"
Dylan stood with her arm protectively around Emily's waist.
What was it Dylan said to remember? Oh yeah smile. I can do that. Oh God! Julia Roberts is like ten feet away from me, Emily thought in a panic.
Sensing her girlfriend's tension, Dylan whispered. "Breath baby, breath. You're doing great."
"Dylan! Dylan! Kiss her! Come on!"
The photographers shouted.
"Why do they want you to kiss me?"
"Money, baby. We're in the news everyday of the week, practically. A picture of us at our first event together will be worth big bucks. They're not getting it, though. Come on I need to go over and sign a few autographs."
They walked over to where the fans were waiting behind barricades.
The yells and screaming were unbelievable. Arms with pens were thrust under Dylan's nose, while security guards kept them from grabbing the star too much.
"Dylan I love you!" Lots of voices screamed. "Marry me, Dylan!" Came others.
Men had pictures taken with her in an arm wrestling pose.
One girl grabbed Dylan around the neck and managed to kiss her on the cheek before the security guard pulled her off. In between all this, TV stations stuck microphones out to her, firing off question after question, some aimed at Emily but Dylan took charge and fielded them for her.
Until this moment, Emily had never fully grasped how famous Dylan was. Women seemed to love her and guys thought she was cool. She suddenly felt so inadequate.
Dylan looked around and saw that Emily looked a little unsure.
"Sorry guys, I'll need to go in now. Thanks for coming down."
She is so good with the public. She smiles and chats, no matter what people ask. It was hard for Emily to reconcile this person to the goofy big oaf who was lost for words most of the time.
Dylan steered them into the foyer. "You okay, baby? You did really well."
Emily looked shell-shocked. "I'm fine, I think. It was a bit off a blur. Oh, and come here." She wiped the lipstick off the big woman's cheek.
"Oh yeah. I'm sorry about that." Dylan said sheepishly.
"You're lucky I was in a state of shock or I might have clawed her eyes out."
"Grr! Easy, Mama Smurf." Secretly Dylan's heart swelled at the thought of her girlfriend being a little jealous.
They were shown to their seats and finally Emily could relax a little.
After the film they went to the afterparty. In the past, Dylan usually skipped these events, but tonight she was delighted to show off her new girlfriend.
The champagne was flowing and, as she had eaten very little, the alcohol was making Emily much more relaxed. Lots of people approached Dylan. Producers, directors, other actors, and even the star of the evening, Julia Roberts, came up to say hello. Emily had been very starstruck but was so happy that the film star was everything she hoped, friendly and open. Through it all, Dylan never let go of her and even if she was deep in conversation, she would gently stroke her thumb over Emily's knuckle as they held hands, just to show affection.
While Dylan spoke with a producer about an up and coming project, Emily spoke to his wife. At first she had been a bit intimidated by the glamorous brunette but was delighted to find her a charming and friendly woman.
"How are you coping with your first trial by cameras?"
"It was a little overwhelming but what shocked me the most was just how famous Dylan is. Girls were screaming for her more than some of the hunky actors. Men wanted to shake her hand. It was strange, I mean all those girls couldn't have been gay."
"Well done, you've worked out why every TV company and producer, like my husband, wants to work with her. The TV audience loves her. She holds a unique talent of appealing to both sexes equally. Guys love her stunts and would like to have a beer with her and women, straight or gay, love her. She's every straight woman's girl crush. Dylan's got that butch handsome thing going on, and just seems to exude a kind of raw sexuality women just love. Maybe it's the scary stunts, or the fact that she's quiet and isn't in the papers with a string of girls, I don't know. She's a star and I'd have been fighting you for her if I were ten years younger and not happily married. You're a lucky woman."
At that moment, Dylan turned round and flashed Emily a toothy grin.
"Oh I know. She's perfect to me."
To be continued.........................................
I would be delighted to hear your comments about this story at
jennyframe91@yahoo.com
Also, please take a look at my website where you can listen to the soundtrack to 'The Dylan Morgan Show', and find information on my future stories.
www.jennys-storybook.com