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Photographer in the Park	By : NutsAboutHarry Category: Singers/Bands/Musicians > Joshua Bell Views: 1770 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not know Joshua Bell (Do you think I'd be writing fan fic about him if I did?) the following story is TOTAL FICTION the prouct of my extraordinarily overactive imagination. No profit of any kind is made from the writing and publishing of this story!

Chapter List
- 43
- 44
- 45
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Louisa stayed with Josh in the loft til the day before the next custody hearing. She helped him pack up all his possessions and with his car and her car filled to the brim they returned home to Long Island.
‘I feel like I’m walking funny you bugger’ Louisa said as they entered the house.
‘Excuse me how is that my fault?’ Josh joked ‘you’re the one riding me like a racehorse’
‘This morning you were like a construction worker with a jackhammer’ Louisa said with a giggle ‘and the two times before we fell asleep last night and yesterday at lunch when you did me over the edge of the ping pong table on the balcony. You have a thing for doing it doggy’
Josh laughed heartily.
‘I can see your back arch better that way’ he said in amusement carrying a box into the lounge room.
‘Hmm maybe tonight when we go to bed I’ll let you see it arch again’ Louisa whispered in his ear as she set down the box she was carrying ‘there’s not enough time to do it now BJ and Charlie will be here soon’
‘And that is the only thing stopping me from bending you over the back of the sofa and taking you right now’ Josh said with a grin playfully spanking her backside ‘those two will get here before I’d want to finish. You know me I like to take my time’
Louisa dropped a lingering kiss on his lips.
‘The one in the shower this morning was a quickie’ she murmured running her hands down his back and letting them come to rest on his backside.
‘It was’ Josh conceded ‘but after we got out went for a whole hour before I let you come’
Louisa creased her nose.
‘Yeah you prick you make me wait an hour again and you can go back to the loft’
Josh let out a great snort of laughter.
‘Oh come on sweetheart you can’t fool me I know you enjoyed it’ he said with a grin ‘it was your turn to do the fire hose act when you did eventually come and for once I had to change the sheets because of you’
Louisa giggled.
‘You know I thought whenever it happened in porn it was fake but after this morning I have no doubt that penomenon is not simply urban legend’ she said with a grin ‘you’re good Bell I gotta give you credit’
Josh just grinned cockily.
*****************************************************************************************************************************
An hour later Josh finally finished unpacking all his belongings.
‘Mmm this place looks like a home now’ Louisa said coming up behind Josh and resting her chin on his right shoulder as he stood back to inspect his autograph and photo wall behind the sofa.
‘Yeah now we just have to get the boys back here regularly and it’ll be perfect’ Josh said with a heavy sigh.
‘We will soon enough babe you’ll see’ Louisa said softly wrapping her arms around his waist ‘I have a really good feeling about this one’
‘Hmm forgive me if I don’t share your optimism’ Josh said reaching out to touch the picture of Josef, Ben and Sam that hung next to his prized Paganini signature.
‘You should you’ve got two of the best attorneys in California doing it for you and they have more contacts than the Calabrian Mafia, those will get you a good result’ Louisa said ‘and speaking of those said lawyers I have to go to La Guardia and pick them up. Do you think you could be trusted to be alone in the house for an hour or so?’
Josh laughed.
‘Yes dear’ he said dryly ‘I am forty three years old I am a mature grown man that won’t leave the stove on hold a rave party that causes the entire N.Y.P.D to turn up or go out in the front yard naked to water the roses’
Louisa snorted.
‘I’d like you to go outside naked and water the roses’ she whispered in his ear ‘but we’ll have to leave that for another time. Maybe we can go out in the backyard and do it sometime no one can see in there’
Josh turned around and wrapped his arms around her waist.
‘Maybe after all the shit with the custody hearing is over’ he said resting his forehead against hers ‘though even then I want to put it off as soon as I can I want to have the boys here if things go in our favour tomorrow I want the boys here til I have to leave for Jacob’s’
‘If things go your way let’s really celebrate’ Louisa said dropping a kiss on the bridge of his nose ‘we could take the boys to Disneyland for the weekend when was the last time you really lived it up with Mickey and Minnie?’
Josh let out a snort of laughter.
‘Last week when I was in an alcoholic stupor I reckon I saw them’ he said with a chuckle ‘but then I may have been hallucinating. I did drink rather a lot’
Louisa rolled her eyes.
‘I reckon you were hallucinating’ she said picking up her handbag ‘I’ll be back soon alright? Keep your hands to yourself your Strad is my Strad tonight got it?’
‘Got it’
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Half an hour later Louisa arrived at La Guardia airport to pick up Charlotte and BJ. She parked in the short term car parking tower and quickly made her way into the arrivals lounge and to the gate where their flight would arrive. Shortly after midday the sleek grey jet landed and pulled into the gate. Being in first class Charlotte and BJ were the first to disembark and Louisa ran over to her friend wiggling the finger with her engagement ring on it.
‘Oh great you and Josh made up then?’ Charlotte asked happily after embracing her friend.
‘Oh yeah well and truly’ Louisa said with a giggle ‘we spent two whole days making up if you get my drift’
‘No wonder you’re walking funny’ Charlotte said with a shrill giggle.
‘Oh I am not walking funny don’t talk crap’ Louisa said dryly ‘he BJ how’s things?’
‘Good good Char and I have a bit of news’ BJ said brightly.
‘Oooh really? What is it?’
‘Not here’ Charlotte said pushing her friend toward the flow of people heading toward the luggage carousels ‘our news doesn’t need to be discussed in public’
‘How’s Josh’s tour going?’ Louisa asked.
‘Oh brilliantly getting an encore every night’ Charlotte said happily ‘I’m with him til the end of the North American tour in mid November now then if your Josh’s case if wrapped up today we’re going to Acapulco for a week to recharge the batteries and have some R and R’
‘Josh and I have decided if things get wrapped up today we’re taking the boys to Disneyland for the weekend’ Louisa said with a grin ‘they deserve it and Josh needs to let his hair down’
‘I was going to suggest to you two to go somewhere like that’ Charlotte said ‘you both need to get out of New York for a while even if it’s for just a weekend. Hell even upstate would be better than nothing’
‘Nah we’ve decided on Disneyland’ Louisa said ‘I haven’t been there for years and years and years mind it’ll be nice to go there and see it from a kids perspective again’
‘And I think as soon as you can you and Josh ought to take some time alone too’ BJ said sagely.
‘Oh trust me we’re going to’ Louisa said ‘Josh said this morning if things go in our favour he’s going to bring the kids to the house straight away and have them stay with us still he has to go to Indiana for his two week stint at the Jacob’s school. Then once that’s over he’s got a week of rehearsals before he goes on that three wee recital tour with Steven and Sam then its Christmas and both of us are going to be far too busy to go anywhere in the three weeks leading up to Christmas’
‘You decided what you’re doing for the festive season this year?’ Charlotte asked in interest ‘are you going home or staying in the States with Josh?’
‘Don’t know yet I’m leaning toward staying here with Josh’ Louisa said ‘it’s Lisa’s turn to have the boys for Christmas this year and I don’t want him to be alone so I’m probably going to stay back and go to Indiana and spend Christmas with him, he wants me to. Everyone back home can live without me for one Christmas I think’
‘Well it’d be special your first Christmas together as a couple’ Charlotte said ‘I’m spending this Christmas in the States with J’s family. Dad joked that he and Mum should come over here for Christmas considering all of us but Victoria lives and works here now’
‘That’s not entirely a stupid idea’ Louisa said ‘you could do lunch at the farm and dinner at Jack and Lindy’s their Christmas thing is dinner isn’t it?’
‘Yeah it is’ Charlotte said thoughtfully ‘I might actually put that to Mum and Dad I’m sure they wouldn’t think it a totally stupid idea’
Forty five minutes after their plane landed in New York Lisa brought Charlotte and BJ back to her and Josh’s house in East Hills. As soon as they entered the house Mocha raced down the hallway slipping on the tiles in the front foyer and slamming head first into BJ’s suitcase.
This caused Charlotte to burst out laughing.
‘You’d think by now she’d learn not to do that wouldn’t you?’ she said crouching down and greeting the mix bred mutt ‘I thought red heeler crosses were smart?’
‘Nope she’s more Labrador than Blue Heeler’ Louisa said dryly scratching her dog’s ears ‘well guys same room as last time, need any help?’
‘Nah we’ll be fine’ BJ said heading toward the stairs ‘we’ll be down in a minute’
‘No worries’
BJ and Charlotte disappeared up the stairs and Louisa made her way down to the back of the house to the kitchen where Josh was crouched down in front of the oven watching a dish of something cheesy bubbling away,
‘Oooh crouched bum yummy’ Louisa said with a grin reaching down and pinching his backside ‘lunch?’
‘Yeah cottage pie nothing too complicated’ Josh said standing up ‘oh Mel rang while you were out on her way upstate to Saratoga and dropped Mocha and Cookie off’
‘So I saw’ Louisa said dropping a light kiss on his lips ‘mmm minty breath’
Josh wrapped his arms around Louisa’s waist and pulled her close he then lowered his head and passionately captured her lips with his. Louisa sank into his embrace and responded enthusiastically. Josh pressed the tip of his tongue against her lips and instantly their kiss deepened when she parted her lips and returned the gesture hungrily.
It could’ve been seconds or minutes, hours or even several sunlit days Josh wasn’t counting, he was enjoying herself far too much. He pressed his hips into Louisa’s and kneaded her backside with his hands until there was the sound of clumping footsteps and Charlotte entered the room.
‘Oh for fucks sakes guys get a room!’ she exclaimed loudly ‘bloody hell! Josh and I aren’t that bad’
‘That’s open to healthy debate’ Josh mumbled as he turned bright red ‘every time I see you and Groban together it’s a battle to see who gets who’s tongue down the other’s throat further’
‘Oh and what you and Louie were doing then wasn’t the same?’ Charlotte said with a grin as she set up her laptop and briefcase on the dining table.
Louisa laughed loudly and Josh grumbled with a ‘touché’
‘We’ve got some news for you’ Charlotte said thirty minutes later as the group of four sat around the dinner table to steaming bowls of cottage pie ‘and I think this might help your case’
Josh raised an eyebrow.
‘Anything that might is a bonus’ he said stabbing his meal with a fork ‘go ahead’
‘I received two calls during the week from people who are willing to help us put the finishing touches on out case’ Charlotte said ‘Maria said Lisa told her about selling the pictures to the tabloids and she wants to help Josh out because and I quote ‘What my daughter did isn’t right and you don’t deserve to be away from the boys because of her stupidity’
‘Well no shit!’ Louisa said sarcastically.
‘And the other contributor to our case if Lisa’s partner James Masterson’
‘Sorry?’ Josh yelped in surprise ‘how the hell does he know?’
‘He told me she told him two days before the pictures appeared on TMZ she sold the pictures for fifty thousand dollars’
‘WHAT?’ Josh bellowed.
‘He’s known this for six weeks and not come forward til now?’ Louisa yelped as Josh swore vehemently ‘why? Does he know how much heartache he could’ve saved Josh if he’d come forward as soon as you and BJ petitioned for a hearing?’
‘I asked him the same thing and he said he didn't think it was his place to interfere but after being around Lisa in the time since the pictures appeared in the media has made him realise the boys are suffering from being away from you and Josh he’s witnessed first hand their behaviour. He said to me ‘my ex sister in law took my brothers kids away from him and it kills him and he doesn’t want Josh to feel like that’
‘Oh how magnanimous’ Louisa muttered sarcastically ‘took him long enough’
‘But at least he’s doing the right thing’ Charlotte said ‘better late than never and legally his statement is going to have more impact than Maria’s because he was the first person Lisa told and the only person up until Maria confronted her after the first hearing. He’s also willing to go to trial as a witness if you decide Louie to sue Lisa for defamation’
‘Oh and you bet I’ll be doing that’ Louisa said.
‘But with Maria and James on out side I can guarantee you J you’ll have access to the boys tomorrow’ Charlotte said.
‘You sure?’
‘I’m sure I’m sure two eyewitnesses saying what we know is true makes the case watertight’ Charlotte said ‘having Maria and James willing to testify saves me from subpoenaing TMZ and OK! Magazine though I’ll do that too if either you or Louie want to sue them too’
‘Oh I’ll be suing TMZ and OK you can be your ass on that’ Josh said ‘there’s no point in me suing Lisa seeing I’d only end up suing myself’
‘Well we’ll get to that later it’s a whole different case’ Charlotte said ‘that’s criminal law, we’ve got to deal with the subject at hand and that’s getting the boys back’
‘If what you say is right I am going to buy you a case of your favourite liquor I promise’ Josh said ‘twelve bottles of whatever. I owe you big time’
‘Ah we’re just doing out job don’t go to any special effort’ BJ said ‘my reward is knowing we’re going to win this case and knowing that when you’re reunited with the boys it’s going to be the best thing in the world’
‘Thanks BJ you’ve been great’ Josh said gratefully ‘seriously you have. Thanks for all your help’
‘Anytime’
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Early the following morning Louisa and Josh rose and began getting ready for the second hearing in the Manhattan Family Court. Despite Charlotte and BJ’s assurances that the case was watertight Josh couldn’t help but get nervous and he dressed for the day.
‘You’ll be fine’ Louis assured him prising his tie from his trembling fingers and swiftly tying it herself ‘and when you win we’re going to go and pick the boys up from school and come home for a celebratory dinner. The boys like chicken nuggets we can have a plateful each’
Josh smiled.
‘We’ll do that’ he said pulling on his smart jacket ‘how do I look?’
Louisa stood on her toes and kissed him softly on the lips.
‘Very handsome’ she said combing his hair with her fingers ‘if we had more time I would snog you stupid’
‘TIME TO GO GUYS!’ Charlotte called from downstairs ‘we’ve gotta go now or we’ll be late!’
‘Maybe save the snogging for later tonight when we go to bed’ Josh said lacing his fingers through Louisa’s and squeezing her hand ‘c’mon let’s go’
An hour later the group arrived in Manhattan and made their way to the Family Court building.
‘Alright we’re in court nine on level three this time’ Charlotte said as they read the court listings on the ground floor.
‘Do you need to meet with that Garlett woman again?’ Josh asked suddenly looking stricken.
‘No not this time’ Charlotte said ‘and BJ and I have already done a conference with James and Maria so all we have to do is go upstairs and wait at the courtroom for the sheriff to summon us in'
‘Does Lisa know her Mum and partner are witnessing against her?’ Louisa asked slipping an arm around Josh’s waist and giving him a squeeze.
‘I don’t know about James but Maria said to me she told Lisa she wasn’t going to stand by and watch her hurt Josh again’
‘Oooh burn I bet she didn’t like that’
‘I bet she didn’t either’ Charlotte said ‘but I didn’t ask that’s not my problem or concern. My task all along has been to get Josh access to his boys and Maria can do that for us’
‘If things go my way today can you organise for my visitation rights to start straight away?’ Josh asked ‘I want to have the boys at the house til I have to go away to Jacob’s’
‘Sure I can facilitate that’ Charlotte said cheerfully ‘I think after all that you’ve been through you ought to be able to have them every day til Christmas’
‘Nah I just want to stick to the original plan’ Josh said with a sigh as they started toward the lift bay ‘I’m away at Jacobs for two week then there’s another two weeks before I go on the west coast tour with Sam and Steven. That will do me’
‘Well you’re a better person than me J seriously you are’ Charlotte said ‘I know it’s highly unprofessional but all I want to do is belt the shit out of her. No one fucks with my friends’
‘I don’t consider it unprofessional’ Louisa said with a grin ‘J’s sisters and I want to do the same thing. Just don’t let the judge hear you’
‘I won’t I’ll just think what I’d like to do’ Charlotte said with a grin ‘I can’t get disbarred for thinking about grievous bodily harm’
‘Ha!’
Moments later the lift reached the third floor and Charlotte and BJ led the group over to the waiting area outside courtroom nine. They were the first to arrive neither Lisa and her attorney or James or Maria were visible.
‘I sort of expected Lisa to be here first’ Josh said as they sat down ‘there’s only fifteen minutes to go’
‘She’ll turn up’ BJ said confidently ‘in the whole time I’ve been practicing family law not one has the defendant failed to show up’
‘What about Maria and James?’ Louisa asked.
‘I asked them to turn up at the last minute as to avoid any confrontation’ Charlotte said ‘they’d be around’
‘So Lisa doesn’t know they’re witnessing’ Louisa said
‘I don’t know who they’ve told but Lisa’s not stupid she would’ve gathered after telling Maria what she did with the photos she wouldn’t just stand idly by’ Charlotte said ‘I’m sure if Maria had known about it earlier she would’ve come to BJ and I right away’
‘Hmm’
Several minutes later Lisa and her attorney arrived. Once again Louisa avoided eye contact with the older woman but just to annoy her further she reached over the armrest of her chair and rested a hand on Josh’s inner thigh rubbing it almost imperceptively. After that Alessia Garlett arrived and shortly afterwards Maria and James. Lisa’s face clouded with outrage when she saw the extra two arrivals and opened her mouth to say something but she was interrupted by the sherriff emerging from the courtroom.
‘Matricardi versus Bell you can come in now. Remember to turn off or put on silent all cell phones’
Slowly everyone filed into the courtroom. BJ led the way followed by Josh and Louisa and bringing up the rear was Charlotte, James and Maria who she pulled aside just inside the door to have a short conference with.
‘Good luck’ Louisa whispered dropping a chaste kiss on Josh’s lips just before the double hinged wooden gates separating the public gallery from the judges rostrum.
Josh winked.
‘Thanks’ he returned flashing her a wink and squeezing her hands ‘I better go sit down je t’aime’
Louisa lit up.
‘Je t'aime trop’
After everyone had taken their seats the sherriff disappeared into the judges chambers. Louisa slid into the seat directly behind Josh in the public gallery and nervously tapped her heeled foot til he re-emerged.
‘All rise for Justice Clementine Prescott-Cosworth!’ he said smartly.
Louisa rose to her feet and exhaled nervously. Justice Prescott-Cosworth entered the court room and swiftly ascended to her rostrum.
‘Good morning good morning’ she said briskly dropping down into her seat ‘let’s get things underway shall we ? Miss Preston, Ms James maybe you’d like to start things this time ? I nunderstand you have new material to submit to the court?’
‘Yes Ma’am we do’ Charlotte said getting to her feed and picking up a dark green maila folder ‘in the week since our last appearance before you Ms James and I have uncovered evidence that Ms Matricardi sold the two pictures of our client and his fiancee that appeared in OK ! Magazine and TMZ.com for the sum of fifty thousand dollars. It is our beleif that she did this because of jealous motivation and it was her intent to cause our client to beleive his fiance deliberately released the photos in an attempt to break them up....’
‘Excuse me but just what is your evidence?’ Abo asked imperiously ‘hard evidence instead of scuttlebutt would be appreciated’
‘So would some silence while I finish my submission!’ Charlotte snapped giving her opposing councillor the deepest of death glares.
‘Councillors’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said warningly ‘Miss Preston please continue’
‘As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted’ Charlotte continued ‘I have two signed affadavits here by a Mrs Maria Barbara Matricardi the mother of my learned colleague's client and a Mr James Masterson stating that Ms Matricardi confided in them that she released the photos to OK ! and TMZ.com and gained financially from it. I can submit the paperwork to the court for evaluation but we’re here for the good of the Bell children and I think to speed up proceedings it would be best to hear from the witnesses themselves’
‘Alright Miss Preson I’m all ears’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said in an interested tone ‘you may call your first witness’
‘Thankyou your honour, I would then like to call Mrs Maria Matricardi to the stand’
‘Mrs Matricardi if would please’ Justice Presscott-Cosworth said indicating to the witness chair.
Mary rose to her feet and walked down the aisle to the front of the court where the sherrif approached her holding a bible.
‘Lay your right hand on the bible’ he said holding out the bible.
Maria lay her hand upon the bible.
Do you swear to tell the truth the whole truth and nothing bt the truth so help you God?’
‘I do’
'Take a seat’
‘Mrs Matricardi thankyou for coming intoday’ Charlotte began ‘could you tell the court how you came to discover your daughter sold the pictures of my client and his fiancee to TMZ and OK!?’
Maria took a deep breath.
‘Last week after the first hearing I went to make use of the ladies bathroom and Louisa told me Lisa sold those two photos to the media for fifty thousand dollars. At first I didn’t beleive her so I confronted my daughter about it and she told me everything. She told me she’s jealous that Josh and Louisa have gone further in thier relationship than she and Josh ever did and she’s just as jealous that Josef asked Louisa to teach him the violin instead of her or Josh. She’s tried giving him lessons since all this business began but he refuses to let anyone but Louisa teach him’
Louisa felt her heart swell at Maria’s words.
‘Mrs Marticardi did Lisa say anything else to you during the course of your conversation aside from the jealously?’ BJ asked.
‘She did say ‘if I can’t have him no one can’ Maria said with a pained expression ‘I think she sees Josh as a posession not a person hence the ‘if I can’t have him neither can she’ I don’t know why she has this opinion Louisa is the loveliest most well mannered person and a tremendously good influence on the boys. They’re forever going on about her when they return home wether it’s where she’s taken them or what she’s taught them’
The look Lisa gave her mother was murderous.
‘Did Lisa say what she did with the proceeds of selling the pictures?’ Charlotte asked.
‘No I didn’t ask’ Maria said ‘it’s not like she needs the money she’s quite savvy with investing in real estate and she dabbles in violin, viola and cello collecting which seems to be a fairly reliable way of getting a supplimentary income’
‘Okay I have no other questions for the witness your honour’
‘Mr Abo do you wish to question Ms Matricardi?’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth asked.
Abo had a quick furiously whispered discussion with Lisa.
‘No your honour’ came his quick and peeved reply.
‘Alright Mrs Matricardi you can step down from the stand’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said ‘thankyou for your contribution to the hearing today’
Maria got up and left the stand catching Louisa’s line of vision as she went to return to her seat.
‘Thankyou’ Louisa whispered as the older woman walked by.
Maria squeezed Louisa’s shoulder wordlessly before returning her seat.
‘Do you have anything more to contribute to your opening argument Mr Preston?’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth asked ‘I understand in your and Ms James submissions to the court you have two witnesses to testify for your client ?’
‘Yes your honour and saying that I wold like to next call a Mr James Masterson to the stand’ Charlotte said getting into full swing.
‘Mr Masterson please approach the bench’
Louisa looked out of the corner of her eye and saw Lisa’s partner a tall good looking brown haired green eyed man leave his seat and approach the stand where he was swiftly sworn in.
‘Mr Masterson could you tell us how you met Lisa Matricardi?’ Charlotte began.
‘We’re violinists in the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’ James said ‘I met her when I joined the orchestra in late two thousand nine’
‘And how would you describe the nature of your relationship?’
‘Then or now ?’
‘Both’
‘Back then we were nothign more than good work colleagues. We both posessed a Guagadinni violin and that’s what got us talking but ater a couple of months erm....things got a bit more intimate’
‘Did you know she was with my client at the time?’
‘No she told me they weren’t together any longer’
‘Did you beleive her?’
‘At the time I did yeah’
‘And when did you discover she and Mr Bell were still together?’
‘Fairly soon after that when he went on tour at the beginning of last year’
‘And did this not bother you?’
‘At first it did but she apologised and we went back to our usual routine’
‘Which was?’
‘Just meeting up outside work....’
‘To be intimate?’ Charlotte suggested.
‘Yes’
‘So would you describe your relationshiop with my learned colleage’s client to be totally physical nothing else?’
‘Oh yeah it’s only ever been physical’ James said avoiding Lisa’s gaze who by now was steaming at the ears her forehead creased in anger.
‘And how did you find out Miss Matricardi sold the photos of my client and his fiancee to the gossip media?’
‘She told me’
‘When?’
‘Two days before they appeared I’d remember that as clear is if it happened five minutes ago’ James said.
‘And what exactly did Miss Matricardi say to you?’
‘She said she’d stumbled upon a gold mine’ James said ‘she them put a folder of photos on her laptop on a slideshow view and that’s where I saw a whole load of racy pictures of your client and his fiancee. I asked her where she had gotten them and she said that they were on a flash drive your client’s fiancée had given her eldest son that was supposed to have a math and spelling game on it. She then said she could use these. She then called your client’s fiancée a stupid cow and went on a tirade about how the photos were porn and she could get full custody of the boys with ‘this sort of ammunition’ And when I said ‘I doubt they took them in front of the boys’ she said ‘that’s beside the point’ I asked her why she wanted to take the boys away form their father my ex sister in law did that with my three nieces and he hasn’t seem them since they were in elementary school and I know how much that messed him around and no man deserves to be parted from his kids and she said she didn’t care her boys had been exposed to hard porn and that she wasn't going to have it. I don’t think she was expecting me to take Bell’s side’
‘Oh? And why’s that? Charlotte asked in interest as Abo covered his face with his hands and shook his head.
‘Well I said the pictures were actually rather good obviously taken by someone with some well developed skill and then Lisa snapped at me with ‘I didn’t show you these pictures to have you admire them a little support here would be nice!’ Lisa snapped ‘you’re supposed to be on my side’’
‘And what was your reaction to that?’
I said ‘The side of what Li? What war are you fighting? I thought you and Bell got on for the sake of your kids’ It was then she said ‘we have until these pictures made an appearance’ I asked her if Bell knew she had these pics and she said no but he soon would and when I asked her how she said she has sold two of the pictures for fifty thousand dollars to TMZ who I guessed on sold them to OK! Magazine’
‘And why has it taken you so long to come forward and reveal the truth of those photos being released to the public arena?’
‘Well I didn't want to get involved despite my feelings on the matter’ James said ‘it’s not my business really but when she kept going on and on and on about taking the boys away form Bell I thought I couldn’t stand by idly any longer and see another three kids screwed up. I’ve never met him but he seems a nice enough guy and from what I’ve gathered is a good father and his fiancée is a good woman and the boys don’t deserve to be separated from them because of what in my opinion boils down to petty jealously’
‘Hmm quite’ Charlotte said ‘and would you have any idea what Miss Matricardi did with the proceeds from the sale of the pictures?’
‘No I didn’t ask’ James said ‘that I don’t really care about that factor what I care about is a good guy being separated from his kids. I’ve seen Josef, Sam and Ben these past few weeks they’re miserable and forever asking their Mom when they’re going to see Daddy again’
‘Well thankyou for doing the right thing Mr Masterson it’s nice to know someone has the welfare of the children foremost in their mind’ Charlotte said turning around and giving Lisa a meaningful look.
‘Is she insinuating I don’t care about the kids?’ Lisa hissed to Abo in a rather carrying whisper ‘how DARE sh-‘
‘Shut up’ Abo snapped quellingly.
‘Anyway I have finished questioning the witness your honour maybe Mr About would like to have his turn?’ Charlotte said sweetly.
‘Mr Abo would you?’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth asked with a raised eyebrow.
‘No your honour there’s been enough time wasting been done during the course of this case and I do not wish to contribute to that’ Abo said testily ‘I think it’s best for all concerned for the session to go into recess until you make your decision then we can all move on’
‘Alright then let’s look at doing that’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said ‘Mr Masterson thankyou for your contribution to this case I’m sure is has been appreciated you may leave the witness stand unless you have anything more to contribute’
‘No your honour that’s all’
‘Then you may leave’
James returned to his seat and Justice Prescott-Cosworth leaned back in her chair with a long drawn out sigh.
‘I think it is the best thing for a short recess’ she said taking off her glasses and rubbing her eyes ‘I cannot in all good consciousness make a decision now especially given the new evidence. I am going to call for a break of ninety minutes and call all participants back here at eleven thirty AM. Take this opportunity to have a morning tea break alright? Dismissed!’
She banged her gavel.
Louisa exhaled and slumped forward cradling her face in her hands. She heard people walking past quickly before a warm arm slipped around her waist and a soft pair of lips pressed themselves to her temple. Without opening her eyes she leaned into Josh’s warm embrace relaxing totally when he pulled her close.
‘We’ll be out in a minute’ she heard him tell Charlotte and BJ.
Louisa only opened her eyes when total silence filled the court room.
‘Hey don’t look so miserable’ Josh said in amusement brushing a strand of hair from her face and kissing her softly on the lips ‘it’s not sexy’
Louisa chuckled half heartedly.
‘You’ve changed your tune’ she said leaning into him and nestling her head in the nape of his neck.
‘My legal team have instilled a feeling of confidence in me’ Josh said with a chuckle ‘hearing Maria and James’s testimonies from the horses mouth boosted my confidence and BJ said it went better than planned and I have a feeling those girls wouldn’t lie to me’
‘They wouldn’t’ Louisa said ‘Charlie’s never lied to be in the eighteen years I’ve known her and BJ hasn’t lied to me in the short time I’ve known her. They’re the best. I’m going to hire Charlie when I go Lisa for defamation. That’s her thing criminal and civil law you think she’s been bad now she’d be lethal with a criminal case in front of her’
‘Well you two girls can discuss that when we’re all done here’ Josh said ‘how about we go and grab a coffee at Pieces and relax for a bit? I want to sit beside you and touch you without having to think about it’
Louisa blushed.
‘Sounds good’ she said ‘c’mon handsome’
*****************************************************************************************************************************
A little under an hour and a half later Louisa returned to the courthouse hand in hand with Josh to await the Justice Prescott-Cosworth’s decision.
‘You go sit down’ Louis whispered kissing him languidly on the lips ‘don’t worry this is going your way I have a feeling in my waters’
Josh returned the kiss.
‘I love you’ he whispered.
‘Love you too darling man’
Josh let go of Louisa’s hand at the last possible minute and returned to his seat the sheriff went to get Justice Prescott-Cosworth and after all the all rise procedure sat down.
‘Alright ladies and gentlemen thankyou all for being so prompt with your return’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said shuffling some papers on the desk in front of her ‘I shan’t hold you back from your day any further as I’m sure you’re all keen to get back to your usual routine’
‘Josh hasn’t had one for six weeks lady’ Louisa thought.
‘I have thought long and hard about this particular case and at no point was that process easy’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth ‘first and foremost in my mind has been the welfare of Josef, Benjamin and Samuel. I have decided that....further separation from their father and future stepmother is pointless. As it has been up to this point. My order is for father and sons to be re-united immediately as to the previously adhered to visitation schedule. Miss Matricardi you will continue to be the boys’ primary custodian. During the school term the boys will live with you but when Mr Bell is in town they will visit him for seven days every fourteen days. In school holidays they will spend half with you and half with Mr Bell except for the Summer Holidays in which they will spend fourteen days with him every fourteen days except when he’s out of town working in which case the school term arrangement shall stand. If any arrangement needs to be made contrary to this court order due to illness or travel you and Mr Bell must work this out between yourself in a civil manner. If you must use your mother and father as intermediaries as they don’t seem to have as a deteriorated relationship with Mr Bell as you do. When the handover time between visits comes they will take place it Mr and Mrs Matricardi’s house. To lessen any likelihood of confrontation between yourself and Mr Bell neither of you must be in the presence of the other when it comes time to pick up or drop off the children. I am immediately rescinding the restraining order against Mr Bell and Miss Riminton and both are to be allowed visitation to the boys from today. This new order will be enforced from today. Mister Bell am I correct in understanding in twelve days time you begin a two week teaching block at the Jacob’s School of Music in Indiana?’
‘You are Ma’am’ Josh said.
‘Alright until then the boys can visit with yourself and your fiancée after that they will be returned to their mother via their grandparents. Is this alright with you?’
Josh burst into the biggest grin Louisa had ever seen.
‘It is your honour’ he said pure joy radiating in his tone ‘more than alright in fact’
‘And you Miss Matricardi?’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said with a raised eyebrow.
‘Yes fine’ Lisa said testily.
‘Alright that is my final decision’ Justice Prescott-Cosworth said ‘but one final word Miss Matricardi’
A tense silence hung in the air.
‘You behaviour in relation to this case has been despicable. To deprive three young boys of contact with their father and future stepmother because you wish you were the chosen one is disgusting. And even more so is the sale of those pictures to the media to further your cause. I would not be surprised of Mr Bell and Miss Riminton was to bring defamation charges against you. If I were in their position I most certainly would. You wasted my time, your attorney’s time and caused hurt to many people without good cause. Should you ever appear in front of me again I would hope you bring a stronger case. I’m not saying this officially but I would like you to return the flash drive with the pictures on it to Miss Riminton and Mister Bell within twenty four hours preferably by registered post that must be signed for upon delivery. Also the deletion of said pictures from all means of storable technology you possess would be appreciated by the court and Mr Bell and Miss Riminton. Will you do this is good nature?’
There was silence during which time Abo elbowed Lisa and gave her a death glare.
‘Yes ma’am’ Lisa returned stiffly.
‘Alright then that is all then you may all go home court dismissed!’
She banged her gavel.
At the sound Josh let out a loud groan and fell forward in his chair cradling his head in his hands. Charlotte slapped him on the back and hit BJ and high five before both women turned around and flashed Louisa a double thumbs up.
Lisa on her part looked furious and stalked out of the courtroom shooting her attorney, mother and James the deepest of death glares. Of everyone in the courtroom Maria was the last to leave and she approached Louisa on her way out.
‘Don’t worry about Lisa she won’t go against a court order’ the older woman said ‘I’ll go and pick the boys up from school and Kindergarten and make sure they’re ready to spend their visit with you and Josh. Tell Josh I’ll ring him when they’re ready to be picked up alright?’
Louisa smiled.
‘I’ll do that’ she said ‘thanks for everything Maria I’m grateful to you’
‘Oh it’s nothing darling I did it for the boys’ she said ‘but I must get home and tell Angelo everything. I’m so sorry it had to get to this I really am I hope Josh realises that’
‘Yeah he does’ Louisa said ‘I’ll pass on your message and we’ll see you later alright? Don’t tell the boys we’re coming make it a surprise will you?’
Maria smiled.
‘I’ll do that’ she said ‘see you soon sweetheart’
As soon as Maria left the courtroom Louisa got up and went to Charlotte engulfing her friend in a crushing hug.
‘Thankyouthankyouthankyou’ she chanted over and over her voice muffled by her friends hair ‘thankyou so much Charlie you have no idea how much this means to me’
Charlotte returned the hug.
‘Aw it was nuthin’ she mumbled her face going a shade that matched her hair ‘anything for friends’
‘Well it means a lot to me’ Louisa said ‘thankyou I owe you big time seriously’
Once Josh had finished speaking with BJ Louisa went to him and the pair hugged.
‘See didn’t I tell you things would go your way?’ Louisa whispered as he broke down ‘you have the boys back and we can celebrate’
It took a long time but once Josh had cried himself out and composed himself he took in several deep calming breaths and wiped his eyes.
‘I must look like hell’ he said thickly.
‘No more than usual’ Louisa said with a grin ‘how about we head home huh?’
‘Yeah let’s go’
‘So what were you and Maria talking about back there?’ Josh asked Louisa minutes later as they left the courthouse and made their way to the car park where Josh had parked his Porsche.
‘She was telling me she’s going to pick the boys up from School and Kindergarten and get them ready for their visit to us’ Louisa said squeezing his hand ‘she said she would ring through when they’re ready to go. She’s not going to tell them we’re coming so it’ll be a nice surprise for them’
Josh smiled.
‘I can’t wait to pick them up’ he said ‘I might cry like a baby though’
‘I wouldn’t blame you’
*****************************************************************************************************************************
As soon as the group arrived back at Louisa and Josh’s house Charlotte and BJ immediately began packing.
‘What are you leaving for?’ Louisa asked in surprise as Charlotte brought one of her suitcases downstairs ‘you don’t have to go we’ve got to celebrate!’
‘Nah this is personal and my work is done’ Charlotte said ‘the celebration should be for you and Josh alone. Plus I told J I would meet him at the apartment if the case wrapped up today. I’ll still be in town though you’re coming to my birthday lunch at the Spice Market tomorrow? And J's concert at night?’
‘Wouldn’t miss either’ Louisa said ‘do you want a ride across the river?’
‘Nah I’ll take a taxi’ Charlotte said ‘you and Josh need to spend as much time together as possible and with me and BJ here you won’t be able to concentrate on each other’
‘We don’t mind you staying you know’ Josh said as BJ came downstairs with her own suitcase ‘you’re not just my legal council you’re friends’
‘Yeah and friends know when it’s time to go home’ BJ said ‘don’t worry we can catch up another time when you two are down in L.A or either me or Char are in Manhattan. I need to get going anyway I have a flight to L.A in two hours’
‘Would you like a lift?’ Josh asked ‘I don’t mind giving you a ride over’
‘No I’ll be okay, Char’s right you two need time together’ BJ said ‘but I expect a visit next time either or both of you are in L.A got it?’
Josh grinned.
‘Got it
*****************************************************************************************************************************
Four hours later while dozing after a particularly athletic lovemaking session Josh’s Blackberry started ringing with the Godfather Part One theme.
‘Mmph can you get that? It’s Maria’ Josh murmured ‘I can’t be assed moving’
‘Lazy prick’ Louisa scolded affectionately leaning over him and picking up the device ‘Hello Josh’s phone Louisa speaking’
‘Louie its Maria darling how are you?’ Maria asked.
‘I’m great’ Louisa said ‘how about you and Angelo? What did he think about the result today?’
‘He’s only slightly less relieved than you and Josh are’ Maria said ‘I expect you and Josh are the most relieved of all’
‘We are’ Louisa said with a sigh twitching slightly as Josh began rubbing the small of her back ‘would you like me to go and get Josh? He’s downstairs at the moment being a culinary genius’
‘No love don’t disturb him if he’s in full swing’ Maria said with a chuckle ‘I’m just ringing through to say the boys are ready to go. You two can come and pick them up whenever you’re ready’
‘Oh we’re ready right now Maria we’re ready right now’ Louisa said eagerly ‘we’ll be there as soon as possible okay?’
‘Alright darling see you soon’ Maria said ‘drive safely’
‘We will thanks for the call’
‘Bye’
‘The boys are ready to be picked up?’ Josh asked excitedly seemingly returning to full consciousness immediately.
‘Yep we can go and pick them up’ Louisa said with a grin leaning down and kissing him hungrily ‘let’s have a shower before we go though I’m covered in your man juice and we both reek of sex’
Josh chuckled.
‘You’re not covered in my man juice’ he said sitting up and swinging his legs over the edge of the bed ‘must I constantly remind you that I don’t spill?’
‘Ha ha ha’
*****************************************************************************************************************************
Twenty minutes later Josh and Louisa were on the road and just under an hour after leaving the house they arrived at Maria and Angelo’s mansion on the outer edge of the Upper West Side.
‘Take deep calming breaths J you look like you’re about to barf’ Louisa said as Josh pulled up in front of the house and cut the engine.
‘I feel like I’m about to barf’ Josh said gripping the steering wheel so hard his knuckles turned white ‘I’m about to see my boys for the first time in six weeks and I have no fucking idea what to do’
‘A good to see you I’ve missed you so much and a hug mightn’t go astray’ Louisa said dryly ‘that’s what I’m going to do’
Josh smiled sheepishly and brushed her cheek with the pad of his thumb.
‘Well let’s get on with it’ he said ‘you ready?’
‘As I’ll ever be’
Josh and Louisa got out of the car and ascended the stairs to the front door. Louisa pressed the doorbell button and together she and Josh waited in nervous silence.
‘’You’ll be fine’ Louisa whispered as footsteps approached and the doors locks were unfastened.
Josh just grunted.
Seconds later the door swung open and Maria greeted them by putting a finger to her lips.
‘Come in come in’ she whispered as the sounds of Angelo and the boys filtered through from the lounge room.
‘How are they?’ Josh whispered.
‘Same as they have been for the last few weeks but I suspect that’ll change’ Maria said with a grin ‘ready?’
‘Of course’
‘Boys could you come to the front door?’ Maria called ‘there’s someone here to see you’
‘Who Nonna?’ Josef called his voice getting closer and closer.
‘Come and see’
Moments later Josef wandered into the front foyer and immediately his blue eyes widened when he saw Josh and Louisa.
‘DADDY!’ he bellowed running toward them ‘LOO BOOOOOOOO!’
Josh dropped to his knees and held out his arms. Josef ran toward his father and leapt into his arms wrapping his chubby little arms around his neck and bursting into tears.
‘Hey monster I missed you’ Josh mumbled squeezing his eldest son hard ‘I missed you so so much!’
But further conversation was impossible as Josh broke down pulling Josef as close to him as possible. Sam and Ben raced into the hall and leapt into Louisa’s arms.
‘Oh boys boys boys I missed you!’ she chanted dropping to her knees and engulfing both of them ‘how have you been?’
‘We’ve missed you Loo Boo Mommy said we were never gonna see you an’ Daddy again’ Ben said squeezing her neck almost painfully ‘how come you’re here?’
‘Well you see Daddy and I had a talk to your Mummy and we worked it out so you three can start coming over again’ Louisa said ‘no from now on you guys can come over and visit and play with Mocha and Cookie and go swimming in the pool and maybe even come horse riding with me and Daddy. Would you like that?’
‘Oh wow wreally?’ Ben shrilled ‘wreally truly?’
‘Really truly’ Louisa said nodding emphatically.
‘I’ve missed Mockie’ Ben said.
‘She’s missed you too chook’ Louisa said ‘hey Jo Jo are you going to let go of Dad and say hello to me?’
Josef let go of Josh and rushed over to Louisa almost knocking her over. The twins did actually knock Josh over but he didn’t mind laughing as Maria helped him up.
‘Hey monster I’ve missed you’ Louisa said pulling Josef close to her ‘I missed you’
‘I missed you too Loo Boo’ Josef whispered fat tears leaning down his round cheeks ‘lots and lots and lots and lots’
‘Hey mischief you don’t have to cry I’m not sad’ Louisa said as the twins snuggled into her ‘I just missed you’
‘Mommy said we weren’t gonna-‘Josef began.
‘I know what your Mummy said but trust me monster it’s all been worked out’ Louisa said ‘do you trust me?’
Josef nodded chewing on his bottom lip.
‘Uh huh’ he said earnestly ‘lots’
‘How would you three like to come home for a couple of weeks til I have to go to Indiana?’ Josh asked his sons once the initial wave of emotion had settled down.
‘Wright now?’ Ben asked excitedly ‘wreally?’
‘Yup for twelve whole days and nights. Louie and I will take you to school but at night and on weekends you come to the house’
‘YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!’
‘Hey cut the volume it’s not that exciting’ Josh scolded in amusement as he got to his feet ‘you three go and get your school bags and we’ll head home Louie and I have a special dinner planned for you three’
As soon as his sons raced back into the lounge room Josh got to his feet and rubbed his face.
‘That was lovely to watch’ Maria said thickly ‘I’m so sorry it had to happen though Josh I really am’
‘Ah it’s all finished now don’t think on it’ Josh said as Louisa went to him and slipped an arm around his waist ‘I know Lisa she’s not going to dare go against a court order. I honestly think this is the last of it. The judge didn’t leave any loopholes in her order and I doubt she’s going to risk her career at the NJSO and Julliard. If she screws up there she screws up her reputation and she knows in the classical world that’s what gets you through’
‘I can guarantee you there’ll be no more problems with our daughter she’s put you through too much to be decent’ Angelo said stiffly ‘Maria said when she came home from the court hearing the judge said to Maria she acted in a despicable manner and I agree I never thought she’d ever act like this’
‘Yeah well neither did I’ Josh said ‘but we’ve dealt with it now and I honestly believe it’ll be the end of it’
‘I think so too’
Moments later Josef and his brothers raced into the foyer and bounced around Josh and Louisa.
‘Let’sgolet’sgolet’sgolet’sgo!’ Josef chanted giving his father a toothy grin.
‘You sure you really want to go?’ Josh asked in amusement scooping his son up ‘I mean it might be really really boring at home. You know what an old fart your old Dad is. You might have more fun with Nonna and Nonno’
‘You not a fart Daddy farts are stinky!’ Josef said giggling shrilly as Josh tickled him ‘I wanna go with you and Loo Boo!’
‘Alright then come on’
Josh and Louisa made their way outside with the boys with Maria and Angelo close behind. Angelo fetched a suitcase and a child size violin case from his car and brought them over to Josh’s car where he stored them in the trunk.
‘You boys be good for Louie and Dad won’t you?’ he said to his Grandsons as Josh and Louisa strapped them into the backseat ‘Nonna and I will see you soon okay?’
‘Okay Nonno I wuv you’ Josef said letting his grandfather hug him ‘you too Nonna!’
‘Love you too honey you behave for Dad now’
‘I will!’
‘Thanks for doing this Maria you and Angelo shouldn’t have to be the intermediary for all this crap’ Josh said wearily one the boys were secure in the backseat of his car ‘you’re welcome at the house any time’
‘Thank you dear you have a good time with the boys you deserve it’ Maria said embracing Josh tightly ‘have a safe drive home’
‘Will do’
A short time later Josh and Louisa were back on the road with the boys and forty five minutes later arrived back at the house.
‘Okay monsters let’s get you inside’ Josh said as he cut the engine ‘it’s a school night so no funny stuff alright? Bed time is bedtime’
‘But not yet?’ Josef asked hopefully as Louisa helped him out of the car.
‘No not yet pal it’s still daytime. We’ve got dinner and time for a movie or a bit of fun on the Wii does that sound good?’
‘Uh huh!’
*****************************************************************************************************************************
Despite his earlier affirmation that bedtime was not something to be argued with Josh couldn’t help get carried away with having his sons back and it wasn’t until nearly nine PM when all three boys were yawning every thirty seconds that he realised he’d slipped up.
‘Alright guys that’s it bedtime he said firmly turning off the DVD player ‘say goodnight to Louie’
‘Night Louie’ Josef said hugging Louisa around the waist ‘can you come up for tuck in?’
‘Of course mischief wouldn’t want to miss your first tuck in back, come on’ Louisa said scooping Josef up.
Louisa helped take the boys upstairs and within minutes was helping Josh get his sons into their pyjamas.
‘Tomorrow after school we’ll start your lessons again okay Jo?’ Louisa said as she tucked Josef into his bed ‘after snackies I want to see what you remember from our last lesson’
‘Owkay sounds good’ Josef replied sleepily ‘wuv you Loo Boo glad to be back’
‘Glad to have you back mischeif’ Louisa said kissing him on the forehead ‘have a good sleep and see you in the morning’
The boys were sound asleep even before Josh and Louisa had left the room and the sound of his sons breathing deeply and evenly made a wide smile spread across Josh’s face as he walked onto the second landing shutting the door behind him. Louisa gave a little yelp when he picked her up and spun her in a wide circle.
‘Careful you’ll wake them up!’ she hissed giggling as Josh set her down and did a silly little dance.
‘Oh they’re not going to wake up Louie it’d take an atom bomb to wake those three’ Josh said pure unadulterated excitement flooding his features ‘I seriously cannot believe I have my boys back! It’s the best feeling it really is!’
Louisa hugged him fiercely.
‘Isn’t it?’ she said in his ear ‘how about we go downstairs and celebrate by popping open that bottle od Perignon you bought on the way home? It’d be a pity to waste it’
‘It would!’ Josh declared eagerly grabbing her hand and rushing down the stairs.
‘I’ve never seen you this happy J’ Louis said with a grin once they arrived in the kitchen ‘well I’ve seen you happy before but you’re like a new person you really are! You’re happy beyond normality, it’s like your soul is free’
‘It is free’ Josh said taking the bottle of Champagne out of the chiller and swiftly popping the cork ‘I know I’ve been an ass over the past few weeks sweetheart but thanks for being there for me, for sticking close. I really needed that’
Louisa smiled as she watched Josh fill up two crystal champagne flutes.
‘I did it because I love you and I love the boys’ she said ‘love is a very powerful emotion it makes dealing with your loved ones acting like arses quite a bit easier’
‘I doubt dealing with me when I was being a dick was easy’ Josh said dryly handing her a flute ‘no one who has ever dealt with me when I’ve been a dick has said it was easy’
‘Well none of those people were in love with you like I am were they?’ Louisa said getting off the barstool and walking over to him ‘so what are we drinking to?’
‘Happiness’ Josh said ‘and Josef, Sam and Ben, music lots of it you and how all six go hand in hand with the stability of my headspace. I love them and I love you and I am so glad to have all four of my favourite people under one roof’
Louisa clinked her flute against Josh’s and took a sip.
‘To happiness and good mental health’ she said with a grin’
‘To happiness and good mental health!’
*****************************************************************************************************************************
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Photographer in the Park