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F/M
Real Person Fiction, Benedict Cumberbatch - Fandom, British Actor
RPF, British Comedy RPF, Cumbercollective
Benedict Cumberbatch/Original Female Character
Benedict Cumberbatch, Original Female Character(s), JJ Feild, Chris
Pine, Tom Hiddleston, Original Male Character(s)
Fluff and Angst, Fluff, Angst, Car Accidents, Eventual Smut, ToothRotting Fluff, Apologies, Curiosity, Coffee, Set!lock, Romance,
Romantic Comedy, Drama, First Dates, Romantic Fluff, Celebrities,
Star Trek: Into Darkness, Slow Burn, Slow Build, First Kiss,
Paparazzi
Published: 2015-01-01 Updated: 2015-04-07 Chapters: 21/? Words:
21718

Crash Into You

by GranolaSuite
Summary

Inspired by various quotes from BC about people taking 'sneaky photos' on their phones,
and him challenging them about it... as you do.
If you have enjoyed this, please feel free to share on Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, etc.
Thanks for reading, everyone! Please, if you like it, hit the kudos button down the bottom
and let me know with a comment. Us writers live on them! Like oxygen, water and food.
xoxo

Accidents Happen
The crunch of metal on metal, accompanied by a soft jolt on the car was all Sarah needed. Not
only could she not afford to fix her car, she was already running late. She had her boss on the
phone, explaining traffic was at a standstill.
Oh great. She grumbled.
Whats wrong? That wasnt what I thought it was?
Been in an accident, so now Ill be even later.
Sounds like you need to go home, get back out of bed again and start the day again.
Can I just do that? Please? Can I just go home and work from home today?
Look, its 10 a.m. already, so why not.
I have to go, the other driver is out of his car.
Bye.
Seatbelt unclasped, and door handle clicked open, Sarah slid out of the car quickly, taking her
phone with her as she went. The other driver walked around the front of his car, a much later
model compared to hers, and inspected the damage. He looked at his car, at her car, back at Sarah,
then back to his car again, shaking his head.
Yeah, look, if it makes you feel any better, Im none too happy about this either. Sarah snapped.
Im late for work, and now this.
You didnt see me?
Yeah, I did, and because youre turning into the street Im currently in, you need to give way to
me, not the other way around. She argued.
Not only had he run into her, he was now trying to argue that it was her fault. The nerve of some
people!
You didnt think it might be, perhaps, polite to give way to me? he shrieked.
No, not particularly, seeing as Im running late.
Well, he huffed, that makes two of us, then.
Sarah stalked over to the street corner and pointed to the Give Way sign bolted into the
concrete, not that he was paying any attention, taking photos with his phone when he could
eventually work out what was going on. She watched his frustration grow at trying to operate the
camera on his phone; the sunlight wreaking havoc with the light being thrown in the pictures.
Shortly after, she took photos of her vehicle as well. It would need to be towed, too much damage
to the front passenger wheel for her to be able to drive it anywhere except off to the side of the
road. The one thing that the two of them could agree on was that they didnt need to call the
police, hell that was the last thing he wanted them to do. Sarah couldnt be bothered anyway; no
one was hurt, just something for insurance agencies to sort out amongst themselves.

I really didnt need this, not this morning.

Sarah pulled a face at him, a look of bemusement. And you think I did?
You were the one taking photos on your phone instead of watching where you were going, he
retorted, watching Sarah write her details out on a pad of paper she found in her glove-box.
I was what?
Tell me, did you get a good photo?
Of what?
Oh dont play dumb. I suppose you expect me to believe you were on the phone talking?
Uh, I do, because I was, her answer was slow and confused all at once. Listen, what are you
talking about?
Oh dont give me that. I see you people, all the time. Oh, dont mind me, just on the phone,
making a phone call! His hands were waving around in the air as he spoke, getting more worked
up about the situation the more he spoke. All the same.
Are you okay? Do you need an ambulance? Sarah couldnt help but laugh in his face. Have
you hit your head, perhaps?
Was it a good photo, would you like to take it again? Ill even smile if you ask nicely.
Sarah rubbed her face. Look, I have no idea who you are, just give me your details so I can call
my insurance agency and get this sorted out. I dont have time for your meltdown this morning as
well as mine.
What?
You heard me, just give me your details so I can get this thing here towed. Sarah thumbed at her
car. Come on, havent got all day.
So ... you werent taking photos?
Why the hell would I want a photo of you? Sarah kept laughing at the absurdity of the situation,
fishing her phone back out of her pocket to show him her call log. Look, phone call to my boss,
and look, no photos of you, whoever you are.
Sarah watched on as he finished scribbling his details on her note pad and handed it back to her.
Affording the paper a quick glance, she folded it up and put it in her pocket. He looked at her for a
response, but got nothing. Nothing had registered with Sarah and, really, she didnt have the time
to fuss over it.
Do you need a lift somewhere?
No thank you, Ill be fine. Ill just get the car towed and get the bus or a taxi home. Sarah
answered. Thank you, anyway.
A tow truck arrived shortly after, Sarahs car strapped down to the tray and driven off into the
early morning London traffic which still crawled through town at a snails pace. She looked across
at the man who had hit her, still standing by his car, on the phone, off the phone, back on the
phone again. When hed done, he tossed his phone into the passengers seat and walked across to

Sarah. There was something oddly familiar about him, though she couldnt put her finger on it; the
eyes, the face, the mouth, the height. She was sure shed seen him somewhere, but couldnt make
heads or tails of it.
Look, Im sorry I was a bit of a jerk earlier. Can I drive you where you need to go?
No thank you, thats really quite alright.
Are you sure? I mean were both late now, so it doesnt matter, does it?
Really its okay. Thank you. Sarah shook her head as she pulled the piece of paper out of her
pocket, looking over his details. Thank you, Benedict.
Okay, well, if you have any trouble with the insurance people, youve got my details.
She smiled curtly, and disinterestedly. Will do. Thank you again.
Sorry again about before. Hed slipped into damage control.
Good bye.
Right. Okay. Benedict turned and walked back to his car, starting the engine up and driving off
into the traffic.
Waiting for a taxi, Sarah pulled her phone out of her pocket and typed his details into Google.
Benedict Cumberbatch, London.

An Education
Sarahs day went from bad to worse. That afternoon brought news that her car was a right-off. It
was as old as the hills and the front end damage to the wheel and axle subsequently meant the car
wasnt worth fixing. She hung up the phone and kicked the desk in her front room.
Cant afford a new car right now! She reasoned with the Gods, or whoever might be out there
listening.
Her friend Erin, however, found it infinitely amusing. She held her sides as she laughed in Sarahs
face. Loudly. Sarah looked at her, embarrassed and frustrated as they split a bottle of wine and
Chinese takeaway.
How can you not know who he is? Erin asked.
How is it you know so much about him?
Erin didnt respond, but just gave Sarah the look.
What?! Sarah finally laughed. I dont watch a lot of television.
You mean to tell me you have that mans name and address in your coat pocket?
Maybe, yeah.
Perfection on so many levels. Absolutely perfect. Erin was slouched back into the couch, feet
on the coffee table.
Him or the situation?
Both. Both is good. She stood up. Whatd he look like?
Uh, like that Sherlock guy we just watched.
Erin rolled her eyes and mimicked her. Coffee? Another episode of Sherlock shall we? she
teased as she walked through to Sarahs kitchen.
In her attempt to help educate Sarah, there had been a forced viewing of Sherlock. There were
also internet boards, discussions, memes, and YouTube to contend with. Sarah had conceded that,
while the show was quite good, it hadnt changed her opinion of the man shed met that morning.
Still a complete jerk, she reasoned.
You know, maybe he was just running late.
So was I! Sarah argued, But I still managed to be polite.
Whatre you going to do if he calls?
Ahhhh, Sarah started. I guess Ill have to break the good news to him.
Oooo. Thats gonna look great for him. Im surprised he hasnt got people to handle this for
him.
Maybe he doesnt want his people to deal with it. Sarah got up and walked towards her kitchen.

Ill be back in a second. Want another drink?

Please.
Rifling around in the kitchen, her makeshift filing cupboard accounted for nothing as she looked
for the last insurance bill shed paid. With her paperwork nowhere to be found, she moved onto
the fridge and refilled their drinks. The sound of feet running from the lounge could be heard, the
front door swung open before the unannounced guest had a chance to press the doorbell.
Sarah? Erin called. Theres a gentleman at the door for you. She fanned her face with a DVD
cover before realising what it was, and hiding it behind her back; her face gave away her
embarrassment.
Its okay, I wont tell anyone. He smiled at her.
Promise?
He winked in response. If someone had tapped Erin with a feather, shed have fallen over
backwards.
Sarah came back through from the kitchen, expecting to see a door to door salesman on her
doorstep. No such luck. It was the same guy from the morning. Benedict Cumberbatch. The only
difference was this time she knew exactly who he was. He was dressed casually, the same clothes
as he'd had that morning; jeans, converse sneakers and a purple business shirt.
Sarah.
Hey. She tried to hand Erin both glasses of wine, resulting in her throwing the DVD case across
the lounge, knocking over a picture frame in the process.
The sound of breaking glass tinkled through to the front entry.
Im just going to crawl into a hole and die right now. Erin took both the glasses. Lovely to
meet you, Sir, please call again.
Sarah snorted, half laughing, half embarrassed by her friend.
Funny. Benedict smiled.
She is. Sarah agreed. What can I do for you? Id have thought you were done causing me grief
today.
I just called past to see if everything had been sorted today? Ive been on set all day. He pointed
to his hair. So I havent had a chance to call you, Im sorry.
Well, you dont really need to call me. Sarah pulled the front door shut as she stepped out onto
the front patio. Insurance normally sorts itself out.
Either way, you were pretty upset this morning -.
I was? She laughed. Good job, Mister Dont You Know Who I Am.
Hmmm, though I can see you know now. He teased as the opening bars of the Sherlock theme
permeated through the lounge room windows.
Shit! Sorry! Erin called.

Sarah buried her face in her hands. Apparently I needed an education. She realised the
discussion was completely off topic, and somewhat strange, so changed it back to what he was
here about. So my cars a write-off.
Hey?
My car. Too expensive to fix, so its being written off.
Fuck. He breathed out. Do you need a hire car or something to get around with? Im sure I can
get something organised.
Again, insurance will sort all that stuff out.
Okay, right, well if youre sure theres nothing I can -,
Pretty positive. Sarah smiled politely.
And I know youve got my address and phone number. I dont think I should have to ask, but.
He stopped speaking when Sarah rolled her eyes.
Im not going to hand it out. Im not stupid, and Im certainly not like that. Your secret is safe
with me. She teased. Gosh, you really do have tickets on yourself.
No, just... his voice drifted off. Look, what Im saying is, if I can help, please give me a call,
but please dont hand out my personal details.
I wont. Mr Whatever Your Name Is. A smirk crept across her face. Never seen you before in
my life.
Thank you. Benedict walked backwards down the steps, hands shoved in his pockets.
You owe me.
Tell me about it. He chuckled. Thank you, Sarah.
Thank me for what? She thought, walking inside and locking the door behind her.

The Drink Made from Beans

There were no more odd visits, and no phone calls the remainder of the week. Sarah was thankful,
at least. Sitting back and thinking about it, it was probably a mite strange that he turned up on her
doorstep to begin with. Erin asked her for an update on the situation daily. Did she have any
news? Had she seen him again? What was happening?
So far as I know, Im just waiting for my money to come through from the insurance. However
long that takes. She sighed down the phone line. I need to get out and buy a new car.
Or just stick to the Oyster card. Erin suggested.
Yeah maybe. She fiddled with her lunch on the bench. Hows work?
Meh. Not as exciting as your life.
Trust me, nothing exciting happens to me.
Yeah except for He Who Shant Be Named.
Has nothing to do with me, will never be seen or heard from again.
He turned up on your doorstep. Erin chimed.
Sure. Okay. Whatever. Sarah laughed.
The bus was crammed full of people. Sarah rued her choice and reminded herself to grab the Tube
next time. Much quicker, less cramming in of people; yes, definitely the Tube next time. The
coffee van was the first stop as she stepped from the bus and into the street. It was different today,
witches hats blocked streets off, and people crowded around, jostling for a place at the front of the
crowd and a peek at whatever was going on.
Vans, satellite dishes, cameras, trailers; a television shoot.
Sarah scooted around them and waited patiently in the queue for coffee. Just dont stop me getting
coffee, and youll all be fine, she thought, sliding closer to her destination. There we go, come to
mumma. She took the coffee, handed over her coins, and turned to walk away. The cup had
barely touched her lips when her body was jolted, the lid popped off, and warm liquid spilled
straight down the front of her outfit.
Oh you have got to be kidding me! She cursed, grabbing napkins and patting herself down.
I am so sorry -. The voice stopped as the body attached to it turned around.
Oh come on! Are you blind? Do you need a cane?! Sarah almost shouted.
Sarah?
Yes, its Sarah. She agreed angrily, before she realised she was looking at Benedict again, this
time in full costume. Are you shitting me? Have you been sent to make my life hell? Sarah
continued to pat herself down with paper towel.
Benedict grabbed a handful of paper towel and tried to help, Sarah brushing his hand away.

Seriously, just dont. She looked at him. Just, bloody look where youre going.
Hey, maybe this time you were too invested in your coffee instead of watching where you were
going. He argued back at her, waiting for a reaction.
Oh, okay, so like the whole driving thing, too, right? All my fault.
He could see Sarah was getting worked up. Im sorry, I was only playing. Completely my fault
this time. In fact, Ill get you another coffee.
Dont worry about it, I have to get straight back on the bus, go home and change.
Its actually not that bad. Benedict offered. Just button your jacket up and youll be fine.
Ive got an 11 a.m. with a client. I cant look like this.
Could be worse, could look like me.
Thats true. She agreed all too quickly, as she held her shirt out in front of her and inspected it.
Not too bad, she mumbled. Could be worse.
A crowd had gathered, waiting for photo and autograph opportunities. Sarah looked around at
them slowly, hating the idea that she was the centre of some sort of attention.
Do you want me to buy you -.
No, no, youve done enough today. Sarah huffed. If my luck is anything to go by at the
moment, Ill see you later.
Well, so far, I owe you a car and a shirt.
Lets not go adding to the list, shall we? She offered a smile and threw a napkin in the bin. I
can see youre busy, so Ill leave you to it.
Without waiting for a response, Sarah had turned and started walking away. Benedict watched as
she disappeared through the crowd of people, dark pony tail swaying behind her.
By the time Sarah turned to look behind her, he was buried in camera phones, photos, and black
marker pens, smiling and playing for the crowd around him.
Why you? Sarah thought, continuing on her way.
Benedict looked up again, and she was gone.

Making The Move

Her kitchen was warm, inviting and full of the smell of the dinner she had cooked earlier. Erin had
shown up, in the middle of her own personal crisis. The only problem being, Sarah wasn't
listening to her, her attention was drawn to her phone that had blinked at her only moment earlier.
She stared at the screen of her phone. It was still there. Maybe if she looked away again, it would
go away.
"So, I'm in a bit of a spot at the moment." Erin's voice broke up the background noise, the
chattering of the television in the next room.
She kept talking, but Sarah was on another planet as far as their conversation was concerned.
It was still there. In fact, it had blinked at her to let her know she hadn't paid attention to it the first
time.
"So, can you help me?"
"Sar?"
"Sarah!" Erin called. "What is going on?"
Erin looked down at Sarah's phone, then back at Sarah, and then back at the phone again. Her
face dropped, before a wide eyed grin took over. It was still there. A text message.
From Benedict.
"Get ooouuuutttt!" Erin laughed. "Walk out that door, down the street, get on that bus and get the
hell out of here!"
Sarah looked at her. "What do you reckon he wants?"
"I reckon he wants you to open the message and look at it, numpty!"
"Why has he got my number saved?"
"Well, probably the same reason you clearly have HIS number saved." Erin laughed. "Answer it."
Sarah hesitated a bit, picked the phone up and unlocked it.
"So, it looks like I owe you a coffee and a new shirt..."
Sarah screwed her nose up. "What the hell do I say to that?"
"You say yes please, get dressed and go where he says right now!" Erin laughed.
"Sorry, what was the issue you were having before?" Sarah wanted to change the topic, but Erin
wasn't having a bar of it.
"No, no, not important right now. What is important is youuuu just got asked out for coffee."
"Hardly."
"No, you really did." She grabbed the phone and repeated the message again.

"What am I supposed to say to that?"

"You're supposed to say yes thank you that would be amazing!"
"Yeah because that's not overly enthusiastic at all," Sarah chuckled. "Plus, he was a complete dick
both times I've run into him."
"So you're admitting fault now?" Erin giggled.
"Great, now even you're taking his side." Sarah rolled her eyes.
"Im joking!" Erin found the fridge and refilled her drink. "So what're you gonna do?"
Sarah picked up her phone and typed a reply.
"You forgot the part about owing me a car as well..."
"You did not just send that?"
"I might've," Sarah laughed.
"That's a bit cheeky."
She didn't have to wait long for an answer.
"Technically, I don't. I paid my excess today, so you should have money through your insurance
shortly. So, can we work on the coffee next?"
She didn't respond immediately, instead she insisted Erin talk her through the issue that had
brought her around to begin with. She was being evicted from her apartment. Not because of
anything she'd done wrong, but because her landlord's son had decided he wanted to move into
the place.
"But you love that place! That's so unfair!"
"I know, I know. Do you think I'd be able to stay here for a while, just until I could sort something
out?" Erins eyes were big and round, and hard to say no to.
"I don't see why not, sure. Just don't be breaking anything, will you?"
"I said I was sorry about the picture frame!"
"Yeah, yeah. So when are you moving in?"
"How does tomorrow work for you?"
@@@
Benedict sat on his terrace, looking at his phone, waiting for a response. His car was already at the
panel beaters getting fixed, a new headlight, and a respray and the car would be as good as new.
The fact that he'd run into Sarah twice in the space of a couple of days was weighing on his mind.
Not in a bad way, of course.
He chuckled to himself about how horrified she had been about the coffee. He hadn't yet told her
how unimpressed they were that he had gotten coffee on his costume. That involved a complete
outfit change, and touch ups from the hair and makeup department, precious time indeed when

trying to stick to a schedule.

Still, his phone remained silent. There was no response, and there wouldn't be that night.
@@@
Sarah struggled up the steps, another heavy box in tow. For a single girl renting, Erin had
managed to accumulate enough trinkets, books, and art supplies to last a lifetime. The sun shone
down on them, the bed and bedroom furniture next on the list.
"Have you responded to him yet?" Erin asked as they struggled, and dragged a mattress through
the front door and up a flight of stairs.
"Who?" Sarah played.
"He who shan't be named!" She played.
"No, not yet."
Sarah helped as the heavy mattress dropped on her foot. "Hey!"
"Give me your phone!"
"Why?"
"Don't argue, just give it to me." Erin demanded. "Hell, if I can't have him, I'm at least going to
help you!"
"You're not sending a text on my behalf."
"Then answer him already."
"I will."
"When?"
"When we break for coffee."
"Well, then, Erin walked away. I'm putting the kettle on. Right now."
After much debate, Sarah decided she would go with a basic, simple approach.
"Yes, we can work on the coffee next."
"It's a bit sterile, but... It'll do." She offered as Erin watched over her shoulder.
"We'll find out when you get a response."
"Why am I so nervous?" Sarah looked at her friend.
Erin smiled in response. "Why do you think?"

Rain, Bus Rides and Cafes

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

She wasnt sure how she got through her job interview, but she did. Smiling, nodding, and giving
the correct answers when needed. Close enough to home that she wouldnt need to worry about
another car any time soon, Sarah was hopeful she got the positive outcome she needed. At least
something had to go right this week.
Until that happened, though, was the Laurel and Hardy show as she travelled to and from work
each day with Erin. The added bonus of her moving in was that she had a functional car. It also
meant late nights, early mornings, a mad rush to get to work on time each day and fights with the
chip and PIN machine at the supermarket on a bi-weekly basis.
You are shitting me. Sarah grumbled. Theres nothing extra in the bagging area.
Erin grabbed at the contents, took them out, and put them back in again. I hate these things. Can
we just go through a regular checkout next time?
The queue was ten people deep. Sarah looked over her shoulder, and back at Erin again,
eyebrows raised.
Yeah okay. Whatever. Erin conceded. Organised a date yet?
Sarah smiled, and blushed wildly. Shhhh.
Oh come on. No one knows who were talking about.
Just waiting to sort out his next few days.
So youve heard from him?
Maybe.
And you said nothing?
Maybe.
Sarah Ellen. Erin hissed.
Erin Jane. Sarah mocked. When I know something, Ill tell you.
@@@
Benedict sat at his desk; chin buried in his fist and went through his diary for the next week.
Interview here, awards ceremony there, photo shoot somewhere in the middle. Oh, and Sherlock
filming. That was happening in amongst everything. Or, was everything happening in amongst
that? Either way, he was time poor.
He flipped the next page over. Saturday morning, a few hours spare, in the early morning. A
double-check with Karon, and he was a free agent, for a few hours at least.
He picked up his phone and dialled the number; his hard thrumming in his chest.

@@@
Sarahs heart stopped as she looked down at the phone in her hand. The bus rocked and rolled,
swung into corners, and too wide around roundabouts. After shed had the afternoon off for her
interview, shed been into town to find herself some new clothes, perhaps some more befitting her
new job. Not that she had it yet, of course, but any excuse to buy new clothes was a good one.
The phone kept ringing.
She took a deep breath and answered. Hello...
Uhhhhh. His voice drawled on the other end. Sarah?
Hello. She started again. How are you?
Im good thank you. Its Ben, Benedict.
Hello Ben Benedict. She copied.
He cleared this throat. So, how are you?
Im well thank you. Hows your week been?
Good, busy, flat out really. How about yours?
Oh, you know, trying to survive the nightmare that is public transport. Particularly bus drivers.
Yeah, I stick to the Tube, personally. Ben offered.
You know, I had that idea, but it hasnt quite worked for me today.
Next time then.
Absolutely. She smiled. So, you rang?
I did. I did. Benedict stopped for a moment. So, I have a few hours free Saturday morning.
Sarah smiled. Continue...
And I do still owe you a coffee.
Yes, I think you do actually. Do you know any good places where one might stumble across the
drink made of beans?
Benedict chuckled down the line. I might do, yes.
Sarah laughed in relief. Lame coffee joke for the win, she thought. Hell, Im glad you laughed at
that one.
Ben was laughing with her. No, no. Ill pay that one.
Venue details were exchanged and a time agreed upon. Just after eight oclock on Saturday
morning. Sarah hung up the phone and chuckled to herself before she realised shed missed her
stop. She was too busy with her head floating around in the clouds. The bus clattered to a halt at
the curb, she got out and walked home quickly.
@@@

Rain pelted down as Erin ran up the front steps and into their apartment, her head covered with a
magazine. Sarah laughed as she did a shake down in the entry.
Hey, dont you laugh at me! Erin smiled. I picked up something for you today on the way
home, but unfortunately hes a bit wet.
Erin held out a magazine, drenched from the rain. On the cover, one Benedict Cumberbatch.
Oh no, I dont need that. Sarah laughed as Erin traipsed upstairs for a shower and some warm
clothes.
Freshly washed, Erin returned to the kitchen to help with dinner, and couldnt help but notice a
small smirk forming in the corner of Sarahs mouth. Erin looked at Sarah, Sarah looked at Erin.
Erin couldnt help but laugh at her friend. What?
Nothing. Sarah tried to feign her innocence.
Not nothing. Whats going on?
Nothing is going on. I promise.
Erin stopped and looked at her. Youve got a date, havent you?
No, I have a coffee. She corrected her friend. A coffee.
When? When?
Saturday morning.
This Saturday coming?
Yep. Sarah confirmed.
Got clothes?
Yep.
Got shoes?
Yep.
Got condoms?
What? Sarah laughed. Youre an idiot. Its coffee, not Perfect Match.
Well, best you read this article and get educated.
I dont want to be one of them. Sarah complained as Erin guided her over to the dining room
table, sat her down and opened up the magazine. Read.
No.
Read.
Later.

Sarah. Erin put on a voice. Please, darling, wont you read about me. Id love for you to be
infomarmated before our first date.
Informated? Sarah was almost crying with laughter. Did you stop at the pub on the way
home?
Erin was still laughed as she served up dinner and brought it over to the dining room table.
You better read that, I had to fight off a teenager for the last copy. She was still crying when I left
the store.
@@@
Nerves wracked Sarah, a sleepless night and a mad rush of a morning and she was already over it
by the time she left the house.
Who gets up this early on a Saturday morning? Seriously? She trudged along to the bus stop
and caught the next one that approached.
She hadnt dressed up. The last thing she wanted was to be two types of uncomfortable;
unfamiliar with the person she was sitting across from, and in new clothes she hadnt worn in yet.
Jeans, a shirt, long coat and comfortable shoes it was.
It was just on 8a.m. when Sarah arrived at the cafe. A quick check inside the door revealed
nothing, he hadnt arrived yet. Relief flooded her, being late was not her idea of fun, for anything.
Sarah left the cafe, her coat lapels flapping about wildly in the wind. It was still cold, left over
from the rain the night before.
So she took a seat at one of the outside tables and waited.
And waited.

Chapter End Notes

So, is he going to show up??

Lazy Breakfast
Chapter Notes

After organising a breakfast date, Sarah is worried she's been stood up.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Sarah waited until 8.45a.m. before she decided shed probably been stood up. She gathered
herself up from the table and walked into the cafe to order a take away coffee. Disappointed, she
pulled her phone from her jacket pocket.
A message.
Where are you? Im starting to think Ive been stood up?
She looked up to find Benedict standing in front of her. Sarah sighed and looked at him; she
wouldnt have recognised him in a fit. Black pants, a black knit jumper, grey jacket, scarf and flat
cap. He couldve been anyone she walked past in the street. Except he wasnt.
Where have you been? She couldnt help but smile.
Me? Ive been here for half an hour, at least.
Ive been sitting outside. Sarah gestured to the table shed occupied only seconds ago.
Benedict rolled his eyes and gestured to a table at the back of the cafe. Eaten yet?
Ahhh, no. Not yet. You?
No. Keen? He shoved a menu in her hand and walked towards the table.
Sure, why not. Sarah followed, coffee in one hand, menu in the other.
An awkward silence fell. Sarah had no idea what to say. How do you open conversation with
someone in the public eye? She decided to go with the obvious, the same line shed use on anyone
else.
So. Hows work?
A smile crept slowly across his face. Not so bad, thank you. Bit of an incident with wardrobe the
other day, but otherwise okay. How about yourself?
Yeah. Work is work. Waiting to hear back about a job interview sometime soon, so fingers
crossed that comes through. She stopped. What incident with wardrobe?
Coffee stains arent a good look on camera, or so Im told. He teased.
Oh God. Sarah groaned. Really?
Its okay. They make sure I have a few changes of clothes. I mean, I dont mind, but I guess
everyone else gets annoyed.

Of all the people. She laughed with a shake of the head.

Its alright, though. He assured her. Howd you go with your shirt? Was it okay?
Sarah nodded. Yep. Kept the jacket buttoned. All. Damn. Day. Unable to keep a straight face,
she started laughing, which started Benedict.
Well, I mean at least we didnt have to exchange details this time.
Speaking of which. Sarah tapped the table. Hows your poor car looking?
Itll be fine. Itll clean up no problem. He looked around awkwardly, scratching the area just
above his top lip. You sorted yourself with a car yet?
No. If I get this job, I wont need to worry about it. Plus Erin moved in during the week and she
has a car, so thats useful.
They were interrupted momentarily to order breakfast. Sarah could see a few heads turn as other
customers walked past their table but didnt think too much of it. She looked around nervously,
while Benedict sat and watched her take in her surroundings. He figured maybe she wasnt
entirely comfortable about the situation. He leant forward on the table, hands wrapped around
each elbow.
So, Sarah.
Yes, Ben Benedict. She teased.
Tell me about you.
Me?
Yeah. You.
What do you want to know about me for?
Benedict rolled his eye. Because were sitting here in a lovely cafe, about to eat a fine breakfast,
Ive stuffed you around this week more than once, which tells me maybe we should have met to
begin with. So, please tell me about this woman I keep running into.
Sarah scrunched her nose up, smiling. Yeah, we do have this weird thing happening, dont we?
We do. So lets go. Talk to me.
And so it began. Conversation ebbed and flowed, back and forth, up and down, with a few more
drinks for good measure after breakfast had been well and truly finished. A few more interruptions
came in the shape of autograph and photo hunters, but most people were happy to leave them be.
Is this normal? Sarah thumbed back towards the cafe door, two people walking out happily.
Theyre the good ones, trust me.
What, as opposed to those of us who want to take sneaky photos of you?
Benedict blushed, pulled a nervous looking face, and fiddled with a napkin. Im really sorry
about that.
Sarah leant forward over the table, chuckling quietly. We dont all know who you are, Ben

Benedict.
Just plain old Ben is fine.
Ok, Plain Old Ben. She teased. Have it your way.
My way? He leant forward into his side of the table.
Sarah sat back, the focus and intensity of his eyes something she hadnt seen before, or in a very
long time. Or not, you know. Just saying...
So, this job interview. He sensed her unease and changed the subject all together.
Yes.
Whats it for?
School teacher.
You teach now?
Sarah nodded. I do. I teach adults, post secondary, but Ive interviewed for a secondary teacher
role.
Beautiful. What subjects?
English and History.
Ooooh. He smiled, Sarah noting his mouth formed a beautiful O shape as he spoke.
Good? She cocked an eyebrow.
Insanely good. It was at this point that Ben registered that she really didnt have a clue who he
was, and he liked that. Immensely. So, you like kids, then?
Kids are cool, yeah. I have a little nephew at the moment who is an absolute corker. Sarahs
face lit up as she started giving Ben a rundown of her family and, in particular, her nephew.
Again, the discussion bounced back and forth. Friendly banter bounced about until Ben looked at
his watch, and brought an end to the breakfast date.
So, I really would like to stay, but I have to go now. He looked up at Sarah from his watch.
Oh, okay, sure. Sarah stood slowly, matching Bens pace. Where are you off to?
Off to mum and dads for the weekend actually. Afternoon tea and all that.
Sounds lovely. Sarah took her purse from her coat.
No, no, put that away. Ben pushed her hand away. My treat. I owe you a coffee, and probably
a shirt, too. Do I owe you a shirt? Did that clean up okay? His speech sped up, a marker of
nervousness.
Are you sure? There was more than one coffee there. Sarah held out some money for him.
Absolutely sure, put it away.

With the bill settled, and Bens flat cap and sunglasses replaced on his head, they stood out the
front of the cafe quietly for a moment. Sarah watched the traffic pass by, and Ben watched
pedestrians, neither of them sure of what to say next.
Well, thank you for breakfast. Sarah thought she may as well break the ice. Two hours of
constant chatter and theyd both suddenly fallen silent.
My pleasure. His eyes crinkled into his smile. So, do you think perhaps, if your phone rang
again, and you saw my number, again -.
Sarah was chuckling at his nervousness. That pesky number that keeps popping up, yes.
Oh! That pesky number. He played. Do you reckon you might answer it though?
I might just answer it.
So I can call you again, then?
Of course you can. She stopped. Plain Old Ben.
Plain Old Sarah.
Old. She rolled her eyes. Thank you for breakfast. I appreciate the gesture, it was lovely.
No, thank you, its been great.
Goodbye, Plain Old Ben. Sarah started a slow walk backwards away from him.
Watch where youre going! Ben called after her. Coffee, and all that.

Chapter End Notes

The universe is rarely so lazy, so how long until these two run into each other again?

Baby Steps
Chapter Notes

Sick of waiting to hear from Ben, Sarah takes the initiative and gives him a call
herself.
Will it pay off?

The lock clunked as the key turned. Sarah pushed the door open and walked into her apartment,
music floating through from the kitchen, and Erin dancing while mopping the floorboards. It
wasnt until Sarah started laughing that Erin realised shed gotten home.
Oh! Oh! Oh! Erin threw the mop on the floor, grabbed her friend and dragged her into the
lounge. Tell me!
Sarah smiled.
Dont just smile at me! How was it?
Lovely. Really lovely.
Aaaaaand?
And it was really lovely.
Still think hes a jerk?
Sarah blushed.
Oh, youre gone already.
No, no Im not. Sarah argued against the butterflies that were fighting for room in her belly.
Yes you are.
I promise you, Im not. It was just breakfast. He wanted to smooth things over.
You gonna see him again?
Dont know. Sarah shrugged with a smile. Maybe.
@@@
The following Friday
Benedict sat in his trailer, staring at his phone. He felt the entire day had been a write off, unable
to concentrate, his brain floating back to the previous Saturday morning. To breakfast. To Sarah.
He hadnt heard from her since, but wasnt overly concerned. Hed been busy, she was probably
also busy, and that was the reasoning he was going to stick to.

Freshly showered, he stared at his phone, the screen silently blank. He shoved his phone in his
pocket, grabbed his belongings and went home for the night.
@@@
Celebratory champagne was order of the night at Sarahs apartment. A stop at the bottle shop on
the way home had procured them a few bottles, the first of which they popped shortly after
walking in the door.
So, heard from Ben Benedict? Erin asked, using the nickname hed come to be known as in
their home.
No, oddly enough. I am sure he is busy with plenty of work and fine ladies.
Erin gave her The Look. The one that said, You have got to be kidding me. She handed Sarah a
full glass and leant against the kitchen bench. It was a small kitchen, but very suitable. Modern
appliances, a fresh white and natural wood theme ensured the room was always nice and bright,
excepting for the days the benches were piled high with dishes, Lights hung low over both the
island bench and dining table giving the room a cosy vibe.
Ask him around for dinner.
Sarah scoffed. Yeah, sure.
Im serious. Erin reasoned. Tell him youre celebrating your new job, ask if he wants to come
over and well get Chinese take away for dinner.
Sarah looked at her.
I can go away for the night if you want? Erin hinted.
They looked at each other before Erins smirk got the better of Sarah and they laughed like
teenagers.
Alright, you know what. Ill do that. Sarah pointed at her. Hes only going to say no anyway.
Sarah picked up her phone. Hows this? She started. Congratulations to me, I have a new job.
Celebrating tonight, keen to join us?
Yeah, thats good. Add a smiley face.
Smiley face? Im not sixteen.
Smiley face. Erin teased. Go on. That way he knows youre happy.
I think congratulations to me was a fair enough give away that I was happy, but whatever.
Sarah added the smiley face and hit the send button. Now, we wait.
The wait wasnt long. Sarah had hardly sat on the couch before her phone was ringing. Erin
climbed on the couch with her.
Hello. Sarah answered, pushing Erin and her long black hair out of her face as she tried
desperately to listen in.
A voice rumbled through the phone. I hear congratulations are in order.
Yes! Yes they are!

Well done. When do you start?

Well, start of school term, so about 4 weeks away. Ill finish up at my job in two and -.
Hang on, Ill tell you what. Im just leaving set now. I dont feel like sitting at home on my own
tonight, is that invite still open?
Sarahs eyes flashed over at Erin, nodding at her frantically. Of course, come over. We havent
ordered yet soooo.... Her voice trailed off.
Okay, Ill just hop on my bike and be over shortly.
Just like that?
Just like that. See you shortly. He hung up before Sarah had a chance to answer him.
More cleaning happened in the following twenty minutes than had happened in the entire week
before that. Clothes thrown in the wash basket, benches wiped down, magazines and DVDs
hidden in a bedroom (they would never be found, according to Erin), an even quicker vacuum,
dishwasher emptied and loaded, which left them just enough time to rifle through the kitchen
drawer to find the Chinese menu before there was a knock on the front door.
Be cool, yeah? Sarah whispered to Erin as she stopped her running at full pelt to the front door.
If I was any cooler, Id be in Frozen. Erin smiled.
Instead, Sarah walked to the front door, took a look through the peep hole. Nerves kicked in as
she watched him peel off one glove, then a second before he unbuckled his helmet and pushed it
from his head. Freshly washed brunette curls fell about his forehead as he bent over to tuck some
belongings into the storage box of his bike.
Once hed finished sorting himself out, and with bike locked, he stepped up to the front door
again, gave it another quick tap. His stomach was doing somersaults; he clicked his fingers a few
times and waited for the door as it opened slowly, Sarahs head emerging from behind the door.
Hey. She smiled warmly.
Sarah. He liked how her name sounded rolling from his tongue.
Come in. We have Erin with us tonight, too.
Thats not a problem. He stepped in through the front door, took his boots and jacket off and
looked around. This is nice, very homely.
Thank you. Sarah smiled, pushing the door shut slowly.
Now, I dont know about you, but Im starving. Erin emerged from the kitchen, menu in hand.
Yeah I am actually. Erin, thank you, its lovely to meet you officially. Ben offered his hand
while Erin fumbled about with the menu.
And you. She gushed. Really lovely.
Ben turned to Sarah behind him and raised his eyebrows.
Sarah smiled. Shall we order, then?

Friday Night Usual

Chapter Summary

I've changed the title of this hot mess to Crash Into You, thought it was more
appropriate.
This chapter sees Ben & Sarah ... getting to know each other.... baby steps!

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Erin knew it wasnt appropriate for her to be there, so she hatched her escape plan quickly. Dinner
was ordered, and she volunteered to go pick it up. Sarah reasoned they could just get dinner
delivered, so her plan changed somewhat; she went upstairs, leaving Sarah and Ben alone to chat
in the lounge.
Sit, sit, make yourself at home. Ill just be back. Sarah started up the stairs after her friend. In a
moment-o.
Erin was in the bedroom getting changed into some nicer clothes, like she was getting ready to go
out and party.
What are you doing? Sarah walked into her room.
I cant be here. Erin reasoned.
Why not?
Are you kidding me? Hes not here to talk to two girlfriends. Hes here for you. Im going out.
You cant just... go out. We ordered dinner.
So well have leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Erin shrugged. Plus, Im worried.
Sarah looked at her in the mirror, confused. About what?
Erin leant in close and whispered. Im scared Ill hit on him.
What? I know you better than that, I know you wont.
Well, look at him! She hissed. God, look at him. Those eyes. Hes probably worked all day
today and look at him. Hes stunning.
Oh hell. Just dont do it.
No, Im going out. I dont want to get in the way. Erin threw her coat on and stomped down the
stairs. So, Ill probably be home really late tonight or tomorrow morning. Ill text you if Im not
coming home. She wrapped a scarf around her neck as Sarah joined her at the base of the
staircase. Benedict, it was lovely to see you again, but Ive just been invited out to a party, so I
will likely see you next time youre around.

Oh, sure. Okay. He nodded, not the least bit offended. In fact, he was somewhat relieved.
As Erin walked out the door, a delivery driver arrived with dinner; perfect timing.
Friday night usual, but with one extra? The driver smiled at her.
Yes, thank you Jimmy. Sarah pulled some notes from pocket. Keep the change, yeah? Petrol
money.
Thank you lovely, you have a good night. Jimmy bounced back down the steps and was on his
way.
Finally, they settled on opposite ends of the couch, food spread out across the table, and a fresh
bottle of champagne.
This is all very posh. Sarah interjected. Chinese takeaway, MSG, champagne.
Well, thats my night made, then. Ben smiled at her, sucking some lemon sauce from his finger.
You know, particularly the MSG component.
Sarah laughed. Good, glad to be of service. She relaxed back into the couch, crossed her legs
over and dug into her food. So. Tell me about you. Last time it was mostly me. Tell me about
you.
What would you like to know? Ben mirrored her position on the couch, sock covered feet
tucked in under crossed legs.
Tell me about your work. Youre filming Sherlock at the moment I take it?
He nodded, and started prattling on about filming, the length of days, being completely stuffed by
the time he made it home at night, but how nice it is to be able to come home at night instead of
being holed up in a hotel or a rental house.
Do you have much travel coming up? Sarah stopped. And before you ask, I did Google you,
but it scared me, so I shut it down again.
Ben laughed, loudly. Yeah, dont do that. Hell, even I dont do that.
Youve not done it?
Not for a very long time. Its not good for the brain otherwise.
What is good for the brain, then?
Ben smiled at the cheekiness of her question and kept rambling on. The more they drank, the more
they relaxed, particularly Sarah.
Hey, you know what.
What? Sarah looked at him, the television completely ignored.
Show me your bookcase.
My bookcase?
Yeah. You own books, right? English and History teacher is bound to have great books.

Sarah snorted. Bound.

Huh?
Bound, like a book.
A laugh caught in his through. Got me there.
Alright, come on upstairs.
Sarah jumped from the couch and took off upstairs, Benedict hot on her heels. A quick detour to
show him around the house and they were stood in the upstairs landing looking at some very
large, and very overflowing book shelves.
Do you read a lot? Sarah asked, watching Ben scour her bookshelves, his face changing just
minutely enough for her to notice.
I do, I do. A lot of research, but a lot of fun reading as well.
What are you researching at the moment?
Oh, a bit of this, a bit of that. He smirked at her.
Mister secret agent man. Sarah teased. Promise I wont tell?
I know that. He assured her.
So, what are you reading?
He watched her from the corner of his eye, smiling.
Ben Benedict, you are not giving me side-eye are you?
Me? He smiled, pointing back at himself.
Yeah you. She moved in close and gave him a playful tap.
Come here. He wiggled a finger at her.
What?
Come closer. He kept teasing.
Sarah moved in closer to him, careful not to stand on his toes as she went. Her heart sputtered for
dear life as he leant into her ear. Her senses flooded with too many messages all at once. The
freshly showered smell still lingering close to him, despite the food and drink consumed. Before
she knew what was happening, Sarah felt her fingers clutch tightly on the bright blue t-shirt hed
been wearing, right near his hip, as she waited for something, anything to happen.
Youre a tease. She smiled, trying to remain as calm as possible. What are you reading?
Ready?
I think? Maybe? Okay, yes. She nodded, feeling her own hair pushed aside by curls.
Alan Turing and Richard the Third.

No. She gasped.

Yes. He pulled away from her and watched her reaction; genuine excitement.
War of the Roses Richard the Third?
One and the same.
Oh God. Thats me done for the night. She laughed. Thatll be excellent.
Martin will be playing that role soon on stage.
Martin?
Freeman? Hes in Sherlock with me.
Oh right, well Ill be keen to get tickets either way.
You are such a history teacher. He teased.
Thats not a bad thing. Sarah over animated.
No, its a very good thing, if I may say so.
You may say so, yes. Sarah laughed again, shaking her head.
Ben watched as her face changed, her eyes lit up and her nose crinkled into the laughter; she even
did a cute lip biting thing as she tried to stop laughing enough to form sentences.
The familiar clunk of the front door lock interrupted them. Erin was home, and it was close to
midnight.
Only me. She announced, throwing her coat and scarf on the stand behind the door. You crazy
kids still around?
Yeah, were just up here. Sarah poked her head around the book shelf, leant over the banister of
the stairs and winked at her.
Still here. Ben called from behind Sarah. But, I might head home now, though. Got a few
things to do tomorrow.
Oh yeah, like what?
Running errands, picking up some parcels from the post office, domestic chores, washing
clothes.
No! she gasped. You dont do your own .... washing?
Hell I do. He affirmed. Self sufficient male, Ill have you know.
Ill mark that down in the notebook. Sarah started down the stairs.
Ben gave Erin a quick wave goodnight as he passed her in the lounge, appreciating the gesture of
her going out for the night. Sarah stood on her doorstep and watched as Ben got himself ready for
the ride home.
So, Ill see you soon then? Sarah tried her luck.

You mean I havent completely scared you off, then? Ben smiled.
I would like to do this again, if thats okay. She repeated.
Of course it is. He stepped forward. Here, give me a hug.
Sarah threw an arm up around his shoulder, and the other around his waist, his riding jacket
crinkling and ruffling between them. Not wanting to appear too needy, she pulled back from the
hug first, only to be surprised by a kiss on the cheek. A soft breath could be heard in her ear as his
lips lingered gently, but not for too long a time.
Good night Sarah.
Good night Ben.
Ill call you this time. He grinned, pushing his helmet down on his head.
Sounds good. Look forward to it.
Sarah stood in the chilly air, under the glow of the orange street lights and watched as the
motorbike turned over. With a quick wave and a turn of the corner, Ben disappeared out of her
street, and out of her life.
Until next time.

Chapter End Notes

And exactly what will these crazy kids get up to next time? Stay tuned!

A Premiere of Sorts
Chapter Summary

With Ben and Sarah falling into a pattern of not seeing each other for a fortnight at a
time, Ben decides to take charge and fix that.

Chapter Notes

Thanks for reading, everyone! Please, if you like it, hit the kudos button down the
bottom and let me know with a comment. Us writers live on them! Like oxygen,
water and food.
xoxo

See the end of the chapter for more notes

The next week brought an unexpected surprise for Sarah. An invite. Not to a party, but to a film
premiere. She was sat at her desk, second last day of work before she had two weeks off and her
cell phone rang.
Well, fancy that. I think were going for a pattern, she teased at the amount of time it had been
since speaking to him.
Hey, come on, I have texted you, Bens voice laughed down the line. You cant say complete
radio silence. He was right, of course, and their comfort levels had increased as the fortnight had
progressed.
No, thats true. Sarah agreed. How have you been? She smiled into the receiver and hid her
face.
Very well, but incredibly busy.
Still filming? She kept packing things up at her desk while talking.
Yeah, will be until September-ish I think.
Wow. At least youre in town.
And thus brings my phone call.
Is that so?
Hmmm. How do you feel about getting dressed up?
I feel very good about it.
Film premiere next Thursday night, would you like to accompany me? And by accompany me I
mean I can get you tickets, a couple if you want to bring someone with you, or a few people.

For what film?

Uhhhh Star Trek? She could picture his nose crinkling up nervously, like he was expecting her
to knock him back.
Another one?
Another one, yes.
Im only joking. Ive been Google-ing again you know.
Oh dear.
Oh, not so bad. I figure if I know you, I should know some of the stuff you do, shouldnt I?
If you feel that way inclined.
Id love to come along. Im told you have a good part.
Ben sighed with relief. I think its a great part.
So, Im guessing Ill need instructions about getting there and who to see and whatever?
Yep. All sorted. Karon will be in touch with you and you ladies can work it out.
Excellent. Sarah smiled. Wow. Im a little bit excited.
What followed was a rather lengthy catch up while Ben had some free time at lunch. They
discussed what Sarah had been up to, Ben unable to make it to her farewell drinks the next time;
press engagements.
We will celebrate though, I think its worthy of a celebration.
Oh, definitely.
So youre on two weeks leave after tomorrow?
I am a completely free agent for two weeks after that.
Good to know.
What are you planning?
Never you mind.
@@@
A limousine had picked up Sarah, her father, and Erin. A Star Trek fan since he was a child, her
father was elated to have been asked along; his best suit pressed and ready to go. Both Sarah and
Erin had purchased new shoes and dresses for the night, Erins set a dark maroon and Sarahs a
metallic beige to offset her dark hair nicely.
Sarah stepped nervously out of the limousine. Nobody would notice them; they werent famous
for anything at all, so were able to walk the red carpet with ease. They arrived much earlier than
the cast; Ben had kept her up to date with text messages throughout the afternoon.

It didnt take much to work out when hed arrived though. A pre-premiere cocktail party in a
function room at the theatre provided a great relaxant, though the three of them knew nobody so
kept to their own company.
Posters for the film littered the function room, so you knew exactly where you were, and a riotous
cheer erupted outside as the main cast arrived to walk the red carpet. Ben had already explained
they probably wouldnt see each other until the after party, and Sarah was okay with that. The last
thing she wanted to do was to have to walk the red carpet anywhere near him. While she didnt
know his work well, shed certainly become acquainted with his level of stardom in the past few
weeks since meeting.
Their seats were at the rear of the theatre and, once formalities were out of the way, the lights
dimmed and the film started. Sarah could see Benedict, half a dozen rows ahead of her with the
rest of the cast.
They snuck looks at each other throughout the film, until Ben got a ribbing from Chris Pine about
turning around all the time. It didnt happen again after that. However, watching him in the film
Sarah wondered how shed ever missed him to begin with.
@@@
Whatd you think? Benedict had finally worked his way around the room at the after party and
landed himself with Sarah, Erin, and her dad.
Dads the Star Trek fan, Ill let him answer.
You didnt like it? Ben looked at her.
Sarah touched him on the shoulder. Of course I did, but hes the fanboy.
I loved it. Dad nodded.
Oh! Sarah remembered. Ben, this is Arthur, my dad. Sorry, I should have introduced you. You
know Erin.
Lovely to meet you. Benedict shook hands with Sarahs dad before leaving again quickly to
network with a lot of the other big names that were at the party.
@@@
Later that night, and with drink in hand, Sarah walked across the room towards Benedict. Shed
spotted him chatting to J.J. Field and was keen to meet him. A few glasses of wine helped with the
courage as she approached.
Hey Ben. She smiled, walked up behind him and placed a hand on his elbow gently.
It wasnt the first time theyd had physical contact, but the reciprocated hand on the small of her
back sent a shiver through her, in the best possible way. A shared smile spoke silent volumes and
she was instantly at ease.
Sarah, J.J., J.J., my friend Sarah.
Lovely to meet you. Sarah smiled. She was definitely familiar with JJs work.
Likewise. He gave her a rather gentlemanly kiss on the back of her hand. I, however, will
continue to make the rounds and leave you two to it. Ill probably see you at Bens on the

weekend?
You will, Ben answered for her.
Goodbye. Sarah smiled warmly.
She turned back to see Benedict smirking at her.
What? She laughed, her hand now around his back.
You dont know me but you know him.
Thats correct. Sarah tipped her glass in his direction. However, my Google-Fu is strong, and I
have been doing my research.
Is that so?
This is correct. Sarah was aware she was sitting in a very comfortable spot thanks to alcohol,
and she didnt particularly care. I have learnt lots about you.
Oh okay. Good things?
Lots of good things. She nodded. I also binge watched Sherlock.
Oh no. He laughed. You didnt have to.
Oh but I did.
Good?
Sarah leant into his ear. How did he survive? She pulled back to look at him.
They were now standing with their bodies crushed against each other, unaware of 99% of the
other people in the room, and smiling stupidly at each other. Ben leant back into her ear.
I cant very well tell you that.
Just a little bit?
Nope. He shook his head. Youre a shocker. So are you coming on the weekend?
Are you inviting me?
I am.
Then Im there.
Good. He smiled. Im looking forward to it already.
Me too. Sarah nodded. But were going to head off for the night. It has been a wonderful
experience. Text me or call me, or something?
I will. Ben agreed. And, for the record, Id kiss you if it werent for the sneaky cameras.
Sarah rolled her eyes. Damn sneaky cameras, youd think theyd have a bit more respect.
I know. He leant in. But I can kiss you on the cheek.

Well, thatll have to do. She agreed. Good night Plain Old Ben, who clearly is neither Plain
nor Old tonight.
Good night Plain Old Sarah, who is neither Plain nor Old tonight, but incredibly beautiful.

Chapter End Notes

J.J. Field? A party at Ben's house? *drumroll please....*

A Good Enough Reason

Chapter Summary

So, we have a party at Ben's house with a closer group of friends. I wonder what that
could me.

*Please note, I know absolutely nothing about where any of these crazy cats live, so
i'm just making this up as I go along.*
Again, if you like it, feel free to share on Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter etc, let me know
with some lovely comments and that magic kudos button!

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

An inky black sky interspersed with the orange glow of street lamps, and trees that reflected a
luminescent green with fairy lights perched in amongst the foliage. Sarah did her best not to fall
over while she was busy marvelling at it all.
She was thankful Ben had told her it was a completely casual affair, and that jeans and a t-shirt
were completely acceptable party wear, because the divots and loose rocks on the road would
have sent her scuttling in heels. Either way, shortly before 8:00 p.m. the following night, Sarah
found herself standing at Benedicts front door.
A house like any other on a suburban street, completely against what she imagined, she stood and
pressed the buzzer down gently. The sounds of laughter and chatter floated through the front
window which was open ajar.
The door swung open quickly. Sarah! It was J.J.
J.J.! She repeated his enthusiasm back to him. How are you?! She wished she had Erin with
her to pinch her; surely this wasnt real.
Im great, come on in. He grabbed her hand and pulled her in the door. Ben! Sarahs here!
Excitedly, he took her through the house and into the kitchen. First stop: drinks. Gin & Tonic
before she was escorted to patio in the backyard, which was decorated with paper lanterns. The
yard also featured a lovely green lawn and simple garden beds that contained soft lights. Plenty of
eyes she didnt know, or had never seen in the media were peeping at her, wondering who the
new girl was.
Hows your day been? J.J. engaged her in conversation as they moved around to a table.
Good, really good, just catching up on household chores. In between jobs at the moment -.
Shed started explaining her situation when Ben arrived from downstairs.
Fancy seeing you here! He smiled widely, his face lighting up at the sight of her.

Ben! Her equal excitement was not lost on those around them, nor was it lost on Ben, and they
were goaded for introductions.
Dressed rather handsomely, in very plain jeans, t-shirt, and an olive green knit cardigan, Ben made
his way around the yard and introduced Sarah to his friends, making sure to keep a close eye on
her. It was only a quiet gathering, with a few select close friends.
Listen, Ben spoke quietly as they stood in a quiet corner of the backyard.
Listening.
Im going to be busy the next week or so, but Id really like to see you again soon.
Sarah could feel her insides bouncing around like a kid on a trampoline. Little did she know, Ben
wasnt feeling any differently.
Okay. She nodded. What do you suggest? I can turn Erin out for the night again.
Oh no, dont do that. He thought for a moment, giving his chin a scratch. I have a magazine
interview next Saturday afternoon at a cafe restaurant type place. Do you want to maybe meet me
there once its finished and we can get dinner and maybe catch a theatre show?
Let me think. She played with him, watching as his face reacted from confident to very unsure.
Sounds really good actually.
It does?
Of course. Itll be good to spend some quiet time together. You know, away from prying eyes.
She turned back to see a bunch of eyes watching on.
It will. Ben agreed.
It didnt take anyone long to pick up on the closeness of the pair. If they werent huddled in a
corner discussing history or English literature, they were following each other around as if no one
else mattered anyway. At one point during the night they disappeared completely. Ben decided it
would be a good idea to give Sarah a tour of his abode.
Up through the levels of the house, through living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms until
they reached the most important room; the library.
So many books. Sarah couldnt work out where to look first.
Ben adored her reaction. In fact, everything that night had gone perfectly. She had gotten along
well with everyone in attendance, even if some of them were celebrities themselves.
Have you had a good night?
Ive had a wonderful night. Sarah didnt look at him; instead she was too busy perusing the
books on his shelves.
You have?
Absolutely. She finally turned to him. Even though it was a complete litmus test.
Litmus test? Ben chuckled. In what way?
Dip the toes in the friendship pool. Its okay. Id do the same thing. In fact I will do the same

thing to you, Sarah threatened, a glint in her eye.

Of course you will. He knew she was completely right, and loved that she picked up on it.
The Sunne In Splendour. Ive heard about this book, but I havent read it. Its supposed to be the
go to book on Richard III.
Borrow it if you like. At least then Ill know someone else whos read it and will know what Im
talking about.
Are you sure?
Absolutely Im sure. Take it.
Thank you.
So. Change of topic. Ben started, somewhat nervously.
Okay. Sarah looked up from the book.
The boys quite like you.
She smiled. Which ones?
Well, J.J. appears quite taken, as does Tom.
Hiddles? She scrunched her nose up. Gosh, really?
Hey, Im not telling you this so I can lose you to the dark side. Ben raised his eyebrows, lips
pressed together in a straight line.
Give me a reason not to jump to the dark side, then. She tried her luck.
Ben started mumbling to himself, his feet moving nervously. A reason, he mused. She wants a
reason. Hmmm. He pointed as if he had an idea. I have chocolate?
Nope. Try again.
Coffee?
Closer.
More gin?
Hmmm. Could work.
Oh! He played. Got it.
Without warning he leant in and kissed her. His hand moved slowly, from her shoulder around the
back of her arm, his fingers gliding across the soft fabric of her jacket. Sarah felt his fingers
entwine with hers as his other hand moved to rest gently on her cheek. His fingers slipped through
the hair behind her ears, tangling and tugging on strands gently. Sarahs arm moved up around
Bens shoulder as she concentrated on his mouth, the feeling of lips locked together, tongues
searching and finding acceptance easily.
It felt like an eternity for Sarah, but was realistically only a few minutes.

Ben pulled back, his forehead resting against Sarahs. Good enough reason for you?

Chapter End Notes

Hmmmm. A kiss you say? Surely things can't all be smooth sailing.... or can they?

Scrutiny
Chapter Summary

Sarah finds out what it's like to be under the ever loving eye of the internet public.
Thank you so much for popping by to read. If you love it, leave kudos, or comments!
Or both, both is good!

Oh you have got to be kidding me? Sarah was getting more frustrated the more she read.
Whats wrong? Erin came into the kitchen and sat across the table from her.
The internet was what was wrong. Since attending the Star Trek premiere, photos had begun to
circulate from the after party, particularly social media shots from Instagram accounts of other
people there.
Sarah was looking at a series of photos of herself, from that night, posted on a Facebook group.
Everyone was clambering to find out as much information as they could about the mystery
brunette with Benedict Cumberbatch, especially considering they looked so cosy and loved up.
Hell. Erin sat her chin in the palm of her hand. What are you going to do?
I dont know. I cant walk around with this level of scrutiny. Look! She shoved the iPad under
Erins face. Cant dress to save herself. Horrible hair. He deserves better. Gold digger. PR stunt.
Thats just some of the stuff being said.
So dont read it. Dont join the groups, dont read them. I sure as shit wouldnt. I mean you have
the horses mouth right there to tell you anything you want to know. Shit, you probably have him
on speed dial. She reasons. So, just dont.
Sarah breathed out heavily. Erin was right, of course, but it was like a train wreck; how are you
supposed to walk away when you can so easily see whats being said.
Have they found out anything yet? Erin asked, scrolling down the page.
Not that Im aware of. Im still mystery brunette. She rolled her eyes.
Mystery brunette is good. Its way up the ladder from mystery bag.
Sarah rubbed her face. What am I supposed to do? I dont want this level of attention. I start a
new job in a few days.
So long as no one knows your name, youll be apples. I wouldnt worry too much, theyre all
just jealous. Erin paused for thought. As they should be, too.
Hey?
Well, hes a good looking rooster, they should be jealous. You got to kiss him, and not for film
either.

Sarah smiled. Last week you said he was a weird looking unit.
I didnt mean weird in a bad way.
Right, in an overly nice, sweetheart kind of way.
Hey, just supporting a sister. Erin moved over to the sink. Think Hiddles is free though?
He looked pretty bloody decent in Star Trek. Sarah offered.
That one I will pay, with big gold coins. Hell, Id let him crush my skull, if you know what I
mean.
Sarah laughed hysterically. Dont say that! Youre giving me mental images that are not helping
me at the moment. Im very delicate, its been a while. I might pay off like Mt. Etna if he touches
me again.
Good kisser then? Erin offered her some chocolate. Come on, well go out with the girls. Ill
call Hannah and Celeste. The awesome foursome.
Fuck it. Lets do it.
Dont look at those bloody blog things.
You know what? Just get the girls over, well watch some telly and order pizza, drink cheap
wine and dance in pyjamas.
@@@
Benedict sat in the lounge of his parents house, staring off into space. Wanda looked at Tim, and
they both looked at their son, lost in thought.
Darling, whats wrong? Wanda set a cup of tea on the table.
Just thinking about something, sorry mum.
Something or someone? Tim pried.
Ben sighed. Sarah.
The girl from premiere the other night?
Ben nodded.
So give her a call, then, invite her over. She seemed like a nice enough girl. Tim encouraged.
I might, if thats okay?
Of course it is. Wanda was keen as mustard to meet the girl whod taken up her sons attention.
@@@
Sarah, Erin, Hannah and Celeste sat around the television in the lounge, the four of them busy on
iPads or iPhones, conversation swinging and swaying excitedly back and forth. Theyd eaten
dinner, cracked a few bottles of wine, and were enjoying sitting around doing absolutely nothing
together.

So, Sarah, been up to anything interesting lately? Hannah pried suddenly.

Not really, she answered slowly. Whys that?
Seen any good movies recently?
Erin and Sarah exchanged a look. What have you been telling them? Sarah asked.
I havent said shit.
Hannah spun her iPad around. Is this you?
Sarah rolled her eyes. How long have you been waiting to ask that for?
Oh, since I saw it the other day, you sneaky sneak, you. She stopped realising what shed just
said. Hang on. Did you just say that was you?
Depends on how much I can trust you?
Trust me with what?
To keep your mouth shut. Sarah smiled.
Scouts honour. Hannah chuckled.
You were never a scout! Celeste chimed in. But please, we wont say anything.
Then, yes, that is me.
Hannah looked at Celeste, both emitting a high pitched squeal; a thousand questions flying off at
once before it was demanded that they re-watch a recent episode of Graham Norton that Ben had
featured in.
No, really, I dont need to watch everything hes been in.
Yes you do. Hes hot in this interview. He dances and... are you serious? Are you seeing him?
Im.... friendly with him. Lets go with that?
What does friendly mean? Celeste piped up.
It means were friends and were going to see how it goes. Sarah figured that was technically
correct, and as good an explanation as any.
@@@
Ben picked up his phone and dialled. Hed moved out into the backyard to get some privacy,
though Wanda watched like a hawk from the kitchen. The phone rang, and rang and rang.
Finally, an answer; the sound of girls laughing in the background.
Hello? It wasnt Sarahs voice.
Errrrrrr... Ben pulled the phone away from his ear. Hed definitely dialled the right number.
Sarah?
Shes just in the girls room. Whos this?

A friend. Ben smiled.

Which one?
Ben frowned. What do you mean which one?
Well, Sarah has lots of friends... urgh-.
Sorry. Im sorry. Sarah had snatched her phone back.
Hey. Ben walked across the patio, kicking at loose stones as he went. How are you?
Good. She smiled. You? How are you doing? Are you busy?
Not tonight, as it turns out.
Oh. She was surprised to hear that.
Sounds like you are though?
Sarah walked into the kitchen to try and get some privacy, but was followed. I just have a few
friends over, thats all. Some girls I havent seen in a while.
Oh, okay. I was going to see if you maybe wanted me to come pick you up and we could have
supper but thats okay.
Im sorry, Ben.
No, no, dont apologise. Please dont. My schedules just all over the shop.
I would like to see you though.
Ben smiled widely. It as a lovely thing to hear after such a long time.
You there?
Yep. Im here, just, Im here. He chuckled. So, maybe tomorrow? Ill see what time I can get
away from here.
Wheres here? Sarah shooed Hannah from her face, the three girls crowded around her trying to
listen in on their conversation.
Just at mum and dads for the night. Nice to get away a bit.
Of course.
Alright, well Im guessing your guests are keen for your company.
I guess so, yeah.
Ill let you go.
You sure? You dont have to. Sarah blushed at the knowledge she was smiling like a complete
idiot, the girls around her gushing over her facial expressions.
Yeah, of course. Dont want to crowd you. He joked.

Please. I wouldnt mind.

Good to know. Good to know. He stopped. But seriously, if I get away from here early, Ill
give you a call, well get a bite for lunch.
Sounds great.
Bye, Sar.
Bye Ben.
Sarah closed the phone and her kitchen erupted with laughter.
My name, is Khan. Erin mimicked, clutching herself around the middle.

Fight or Flight
Chapter Summary

It was inevitable. Your picture is out there, eventually people are going to find out
who you are or, in this case, who Sarah is.

Chapter Notes

Thank you so much to everyone who has read or commented so far. I think these two
are in for the long haul, so strap yourself in and enjoy the next chapter.
As always, I love to read comments and suggestions, and watch the kudos ticking
over. Please feel free to share this with others through FaceBook, Tumblr, Twitter,
etc.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Benedict didn't get the chance to sleep in that he was hoping for. Thursday morning and he'd been
on the phone to Karon early. Hanging up, his next call was made with trepidation. Nimble fingers
danced over the screen of the phone, scrolled through the contacts and landed on the name he
wanted. He listened to the dial tone. The only thing louder, the sound of his nervous heart.
It kept ringing.
"Hello." Her voice was tired, groggy, and a little bit annoyed. It wasn't Sarah's idea of a good time
being woken up on one of the last days of her holiday.
"Errrr Sarah?"
"Hey Ben." She sounded happy to hear from him. Good.
"So, the thing is. I've been speaking to Karon, and everything's under control, there's no need for
you to worry, we're going to take care of this. The photos are out now, and there's probably not a
lot we can do to get rid of them all..."
Sarah sat up, rubbing her eyes. The rambling wasn't good, that meant nerves. "Ben, what are you
talking about?"
"Hey?"
"What's with the rambling?"
"You haven't seen yet?"
"Seen what?"
"Ummm. You're in the newspaper this morning."

"I'm what?"
Ben began slowly. "There's an article about you in the newspaper."
Sarah stood up and walked over to her computer. "Why am I in the paper?"
"Well, I was going to ask you if perhaps one of your friends might have said something to
someone. I mean, I certainly haven't."
Only within the past week had they both decided that their relationship wasn't going to be for
public consumption. Sarah was about to start working in a school and Ben, well, he just didn't
want to be fodder for gossips either way.
"Ben, I thought we'd agreed about this? The only people that know are Erin, Celeste and Hannah.
I mean, my parents don't even know you exist yet. Though my fourteen year old cousin... She's
convinced she needs to have your kids but, you know, she doesn't know that I know you. No one
does."
"You don't think they would have said anything?" He asked warily.
"I'm fairly sure they wouldn't have said anything. Not that I mentioned implicitly not to say
anything."
"Hmmmm.
"What about your friends, Ben?"
"No, they're fairly watertight." He dismissed, certain it wouldn't have come from anyone at the
party."
"So now what?"
"Leave it with me," he spoke calmly. "I'll be in touch with Karon during the day and we'll do
what we can. Why don't we catch up for dinner tonight, you can come out to my place, and we
can talk about where to go from here. What do you say?"
"All I heard then was you've offered to cook me dinner." Sarah tried to keep the conversation
light, even though she was having a minor freak out over the latest revelation.
Ben chuckled down the line. "I will cook you dinner, yes."
Sarah opened up Facebook, a local news service online and Tumblr to see what she could find
out, and if there was an origin to the information. Her name had now spread so quickly that it was
hard to work out exactly where the fire started. Though, she gave them credit, they were a decent
set of sleuths, as creepy as that was.
Her occupation was a source of joy for the fandom. A teacher: must be great with kids, and
apparently Ben had made no secret in the past of wanting a family. So, in some corners of the
world she was considered the ultimate catch for Ben. Great for confidence, even if some of them
already appeared to be knitting baby clothes. Sarah couldn't even think about her next week with a
clear head, let alone worrying about looking after children with a man she barely knew.
In contrast, there was a whole different side to the fandom, which she knew she shouldn't have
been looking at. Her hair, her clothes, her face, criticised, analysed and picked apart. Her own
stupidity and lack of privacy settings on her Instagram account meant that her personal pictures
had been pilfered and distributed. She was smart enough to know that complaining to anyone that
posted them would out her. Another side effect was the four thousand one hundred and seventy
two friend request on Facebook and an astronomical number of new messages.

Regardless, she knew it best to switch off and ignore the talk. Instead, she opted to head out and
do the grocery shopping, which she promised Erin she'd do, given she had the time on her hands
that week.
"What are you going to do?" Erin called her the minute she saw something pop up on her news
service.
Sarah was walking through the grocers, picking up some fresh fruit. "I don't know. What can I
do?"
"I thought this was hush hush, for exactly this reason?"
"So did I."
"How much do they know?"
"Basically everything there is to know about me, probably except my cycle, though they've
already pegged me as great mother material."
"Look, that is actually a very true point, but not what we should be worried about. You'd be a
beautiful mum." Erin tried to lighten the mood. "And practicing, especially with him will be half
the fun."
"Erin," she hissed. "Not helping."
"I know, I know. Sorry. This is serious. Who do you think told?"
"Well, you Celeste and Hannah are the only one that know."
"Leave it with me, I will find this out."
"Did you delete them or leave them as is?" Ben placed a bowl of pasta in front of her and topped
up her wine.
"I left them as is. I didn't have time to go through them all."
"Have you changed your..."
"Yes, Ben." Sarah rolled her eyes. "All my privacy settings have been changed."
Dinner was quiet, Ben worried about Sarah, and Sarah tried to work out how to vocalise exactly
what she was feeling about all of this. The constant spotlight was something she would either need
to accept, and put up with as part of the package deal that was Benedict Cumberbatch, or she was
going to have to end things now before they got too serious. Ending it now would allow Ben to
issue one of those "just good friends" statements and leave it at that.
Her decision was becoming clearer later that night. They'd spent what felt like hours making out
on the couch like teenagers, Sarah relishing the feel of him on top of her. He was warm, and solid
and, while a little on the thin side, she was at least able to write that off to his role as Sherlock.
Ben had left the room to make coffee, and she checked her phone.
The harassment had moved into her email account, and she panicked. These people knew she was
a teacher, they knew her name, and there was even a mention of Erin in one of the press articles
that afternoon. In addition, there were new articles, fresh from that afternoon. She'd been spotted
by an eagle eyed fan out in her shopping trip; fresh photos from that trip accompanied the
headline.
She felt trapped, her eyes prickled with tears. Fight or flight had started, with flight winning out at
that very moment. Coming back into the lounge with a little smile on his face, Ben stopped when
he saw Sarah.

"Sarah? What's wrong?"

"I don't think I can do this, Ben." She tried to smile.
"Do what?" The smile faded; he already knew what was coming.
"Us. I don't think this is going to work."

Chapter End Notes

It looks like Sarah's made her decision, but has she actually made a mistake?

Radio Silence
Chapter Summary

All the angst.

Sarah's broken it off, the media are still swarming, and then an unexpected call.

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Ben's shoulders dropped, and he placed the coffee cups down before continuing. Wracked with
nerves, Sarah was close to tears.
"What do you mean it can't work?" Ben frowned.
Sarah said nothing.
"Sarah?"
"I think...," she spoke slowly, in an effort to calm herself, that I'm not comfortable with the
attention, particularly with the comments I've read in the past few days. I'm about to start a new
job and I can't have that kind of attention following me around."
"But, that's okay. We can issue a denial, it'll blow over in a few weeks and everything will go
back to normal. It'll be alright, Sarah."
"I don't think it will be, Ben. There's blood in the water and now the sharks are circling. I'm sorry,
but I think I'll go home now."
"No, Sarah, hang on. I want to talk about what you're worried about."
"I just told you, Ben."
"Well, can we maybe keep in touch while Im in America next week and, when I get back, sit
down and come up with perhaps a... say... strategy on how to deal with this and keep it on the low
down going forward?"
"I can't Ben, I'm sorry."
He nodded. "Me too."
There was no convincing her to stay, Ben watching as she walked off into the night, arms crossed
in front of her, the lapels of her jacket flapping about in the night air. Disappointed, two coffees
were poured down the sink, the house was locked up, and a small bag packed for his flight to
America the next morning.
@@@
"Please tell me you didn't end it just because of that?" Erin handed Sarah a cup of tea, the both of
them sat at their kitchen table, a box of chocolate biscuits between them.

Sarah went through and explained everything in detail, not surprised to find out that Erin had been
contacted by the media for comment. She hadn't heard from Hannah or Celeste, but was certain
that neither of them would have mentioned anything. As a follow on effect, Erin had also received
friend requests.
Sarah ignored her phone, which rang unceasingly, soaked in a hot bath and bunked down in bed.
To say she was disappointed was an understatement. Benedict had been nothing short of
charming; sweet, intelligible, a calm in the storm that was his life and a complete dork all at once.
If there was a way they could have kept things quiet before now, perhaps they wouldn't have
ended up there.
Benedict slept terribly. Unable to get comfortable he tossed and turned until the early hours. He
had meant to discuss the situation with Karon on the flight but exhaustion won over and he
dropped off to sleep, earbuds in his ears and music dancing away in his ears. Not a usual feature
on his trips, paparazzi were waiting for him on arrival at LAX, a multitude of questions about
Sarah. Who she was, where she was, was he happy, are her family happy? Needless to say he was
in a funk by the time he got into the car awaiting him at the airport.
@@@
Life hadnt given Sarah much of an opportunity to think about anything other than Ben. She
started her new teaching role and her entire first week consisted of answering questions. Her
students were all teenagers, they were on social media, they were into celebrities, turning Sarah
into a minor one by the end of her first day. She sent him a text late on the Thursday night:
Hi Ben, sorry to bother you, but Im getting hammered at work here about you. Any chance
youve had time to organise your denial statement?
His response was swift, and not quite what she expected;
Not yet. Out of country. Talk soon.
She knew he was out of the country; shed broken things off with him just before hed travelled.
His response left her slightly miffed though, by the next morning, an official statement had been
released stating that Benedict and Sarah are nothing more than friends, who move in the same
circles and their privacy should be respected as such. That was as straight of a denial as she was
going to get, but it was something.
If she rolled her eyes one more time at a ridiculous Sherlock and Watson joke at work, she was
sure her eyes would slip out of their sockets and fly off into the ether, never to be seen again. Her
parents were worried; theyd also been approached by the media for comment but had refused to
say anything on the basis that they knew of nothing to say.
Who called you, Dad?
The Daily Mail. She could hear him stifle a laugh on the other end of the line.
Oh, Dad, dont even go there, she implored.
So, theres nothing to tell?
Not a thing to tell. I am a single lady.
@@@
A fortnight after starting her new job, and a week after Benedict had touched back down in the

UK, and Sarah still had not seen or heard from him. Shed sent a text message, asking if he got
home okay, and it remained unanswered. What was worse than knowing shed upset him, was
knowing shed upset him so much that he was no longer returning messages.
It was another week still before she heard from anyone in Bens circle of friends. A few missed
calls from a number she didnt know came through on her lunch break at work. Having waited
until she got home that night, she dialled the number.
Sarah waited, listening to the dial tone.
Hello? Sarah recognised the voice, but couldnt quite pin it.
Hello. My names Sarah, I missed -.
Sarah! an excited voice answered. Its me!
Whos me?
Its J.J. he stopped. J.J. Field.

Chapter End Notes

I wonder what JJ could possibly want?

Cloak And Dagger

Chapter Summary

In an attempt to help bring them back together, J.J. organises a party at his place.
Sarah agrees, so long as she can bring Erin with her.

Chapter Notes

Sorry this has taken a few days to get up. My IRL novel has been throwing me
around with editing!

See the end of the chapter for more notes

Sarah was dubious as to the reasons behind J.J.'s call, so she let on nothing more than what she
had already explained to Ben. J.J. listened, understanding of her reasons but still, he offered advice
as to how things could possibly work with a little bit of careful planning.
"No, I don't want cloak and dagger type relationships," Sarah explained.
"No, it's not so much cloak and dagger. It's more knowing where you can and can't do things."
Sarah listened to him roll through stories from his love life and how quiet he had managed to keep
some of his flings. Eventually, J.J. managed to talk Sarah into coming to a party at his house the
following weekend. Sarah only had one condition, and that was that she was allowed to bring
Erin with her.
There had been plenty of discussion at home in the days following the revelation of Sarah's
identity. Erin had tried, and failed, to find out who had 'outed' her friend to the prying eyes of the
media. The more they thought about it, the more it could have been anyone that Sarah worked
with, even if the original pictures had been somewhat grainy.
@@@
Ben arrived before Sarah, hoping that he could catch her before the night got underway.
However, it was Erin that he saw first, J.J. had already absconded with Sarah, extolling the virtues
of his Third Star co-star. Ben could see them in the kitchen, their discussion looking somewhat
animated, while he tried to pay attention to Erin.
"She's been very quiet," Erin whispered, the discussion meant to be for their ears only.
"Is she okay?" Ben looked concerned.
"Disappointed, I think, annoyed."
"Well, that makes two of us then, doesn't it?" Ben gave her a courteous smile. "Any idea who
outed her to the media?" It was well known that Ben had a very tight circle of friends, news like
this being leaked getting frowned upon.

"She really does like you, though." Erin pushed. "You should keep trying."
"Got any hints?" Ben asked.
@@@
Sarah avoided him as long as she could with desperate glances exchanged over the course of the
night. A bubble of angst hung above the party, waiting to burst like an overstretched balloon. The
subject of 'them' avoided at all costs by those around them, but finally brought to a head by Tom.
"Hiddleston." Sarah smiled as he sat down next to her.
"Miss. Sarah," he answered. "Are you going to ignore him all night or are you going to go talk to
him?"
"And say what? There's nothing to add."
"There's always something to add. I'm going to take Miss. Erin away with me, and you're going to
go pull his bottom lip out of the gutter." He nodded in Ben's direction.
Slowly, she rose from her place and walked across the yard to Ben, his eyes rising to meet her as
she got closer.
Can I sit with you?
Of course you can. Ben tapped the spot next to him.
Speech evaded them for a few minutes, both of them working up the courage to say anything,
until Sarah looked over to the corner of the yard to find Erin very happy in the corner with Tom.
Her hand reached up to touch his arm as he spoke, her laughing at his jokes, and Tom genuinely
keen to be the one making her laugh.
Look at these two, huh? Sarah nudged Ben and pointed in their direction.
Ben smiled. They look pretty happy about their lot in life. He sucked a deep breath in. Look,
Sarah...
Its okay. She cut him off, sure of what he was going to say.
No, its not okay, he disagreed. I should have been more careful. Im sorry your privacy was
compromised, it mustve been a horrible thing for you to go through.
All she could do was nod in agreement.
I have to do a bit of promotional work around the place, a bit of Japan and the like. Ill be away
for a little while. Do you think we could perhaps see each other when I get back?
See, the thing is now...
Well do everything completely different, one hundred percent under the radar. He cut Sarah off
before she could knock him back.
Sarah shook her head. I dont know that you can guarantee that.
We can try, though? Dont you think?
Ben, Ive had people follow me around the supermarket this week. Theyve sat across from my

house, theyve followed me. Ive seen my picture -.

I saw them too, and Im sorry. I cant control everything, though. Im not that good.
Finally, Sarah looked at Ben, his eyes full of hurt. There are articles about me on the internet. I
dont know where theyre getting this information from.
Can I make a suggestion? Ben asked.
Of course.
Lets wait until I get back from my promo work. Well give it some time to die down. It always
dies down. Lets keep in touch, on the phone, well get to know each other a bit better, and then
what well do is go from there. Once everything has died down, we should be okay.
Do you think it will though? Sarah was doubtful, just that morning shed seen something on
Facebook about her regular cafe, and how she always gets a cappuccino and blueberry muffin.
We wont know unless we give it a try. What do you say?
Sarah sat and thought a moment, chewing her finger nervously as she looked around the yard.
Everyone seemed to have paired off, Erin and Tom were all over each other. J.J. was busy being
the host and making sure everyone was okay, and a number of other friends shed not met before
were all comfortable in each others company. Then there was her and Ben, at an awkward
crossroads, the both of them knowing what they wanted, but life seemingly getting in the way.
She looked back at Ben again.
I guess youre right. We wont know unless we try. But I really dont want to be in the media.
Ive gotten enough grief from co-workers and students this week. It cant happen.
You and I, together, well do our best, and I know you dont want cloak and dagger type stuff -.
Well he clearly kept his mouth shut. Sarah looked over to J.J.
Hey. Ben scratched her leg. I know you dont want that, but if its for the best, and it helps us,
then we should at least give it a crack. Im not prepared to give up yet, are you?
He was right, she didnt want to either, and she shook her head. No, she didnt want to give up
either. An agreement reached, Ben leaned forward and kissed her, slowly, and gently, a silent
confirmation between the two of them that all was right in the world again.

Chapter End Notes

So, everything seems to be right in the world again, but that's just the tip of the
iceberg, I'm sure of it!

Brighton Beach
Chapter Summary

Sarah gets invited out to Brighton with Tom & Erin. Seems harmless enough...

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

How have you been? Ben asked.

Okay, how about you?
Not so bad. Exhausted. Want to be home.
What are you up to now?
About to go into another screening. Hows everything going for you? Are you being left alone?
Sort of, sort of, Sarah voice wavered.
Sarah...
Its just hard, once people have a sniff they look for anything, dont they?
They do, but I can assure you they will get sick and tired and leave you alone. Ben stopped,
hoping to change the subject. Hows Erin?
Hey?
Your housemate. How is she?
Oh, yeah shes good. I dont think shes going anywhere any time soon. I think shes at Toms
house now, though, doing God knows what.
Im sure God doesnt want to know whatll be going on there. He chuckled. So what happens
when you have the house to yourself?
Im reading a lot. The Sunne In Splendour, actually, some weird guy leant it to me, so Im giving
that a go.
Still? That was weeks ago. Its only a quick read.
Maybe if you have hours between engagements, which I dont. Im a school teacher, remember. I
dont have hours to waste on set.
Oh harsh! He laughed. I shouldve brought you with me to America, you can see what its
really like to work.
Okay, sure, superstar, whatever you reckon.
It had been a fortnight since Sarah had seen Ben. In America for a press junket, he did his best to

call as often as he could. It was important to Sarah that he did, and she had explained she didnt
want to interrupt him when he was working. She had called once, and Bens phone could be
heard ringing in the background of the interview.
Sarah still was asked at work almost every day if shed heard from or spoken to Ben. For the sake
of her own sanity, the answer was always No, which went for Ben in interviews as well. Theyd
made an agreement the night before he left that they were going to do things properly, quietly, and
away from the cameras for as long as possible at least.
Ben kept talking, as he was known to do, waffling from one topic to the next, when he noted he
wasnt getting a response.
Sarah?.... Sarah?
She was asleep.
He hung up the phone and headed into the darkened theatre.
@@@
Erin came bounding through the front door the next morning, clutching Toms hand for dear life.
Shed been out all night and now, it appeared, she was spending the entire weekend away as well,
stopping off initially only to collect clothes.
Sarah walked downstairs at the sound of cupboards rattling and cups clanging on the bench top.
Erin wouldnt know quiet it if ran up and bit her on the arse, add that to the fact she was more than
a little bit excited about Tom, and you had an unstoppable combination.
Sarah! Late start today!
What time is it? she grumbled, clutching her robe closed.
Ten.
Is that all? Hey Tom.
Hey Sarah. Heard from Ben?
Yeah, we spoke last night. Hes good.
Do you want to come to lunch with us? Were going somewhere quiet, out of town a bit? Tom
offered. Bit of fresh air.
Come on, were going out of town, itll be fine. Erin pouted at her. We havent caught up in
such a long time, itll be fun. Ive got a new jacket you can wear.
Well now, how am I supposed to say no to a new jacket? Sarah smiled. Ill just go and get
dressed. Give me a few minutes.
Were going to go out to Brighton! Tom called after Sarah as she walked upstairs. Nice little
cafe down there, no one will bother us.
Sounds good.
@@@
The three of them sat overlooking the ocean at Brighton, a place Sarah had been hundreds of

times as a child, some of her family still living there. A light lunch followed by cakes and a pot of
tea, and Sarah felt better than she had in a while.
How long until the boy gets back? Tom asked while Erin disappeared to order food.
Should be another fortnight, I think, Sarah answered. Looking forward to getting him back
here, so we can sit down in the same room together.
Itll be good to see you two get your business together. Youre both a lot of fun.
Thank you. Sarah smiled.
The subject wasnt revisited again for the rest of the afternoon, Erin keen to show off what Tom
was getting himself up to work wise, and Sarah listening intently while her mind wandered
elsewhere. Tom and Erin left shortly after lunch to walk around on their own, while Sarah did the
same thing. She thought about getting the bus out to see her family in the area, they werent far
from the beach, and it would be a nice thing to catch up with them.
Waiting at the bus stop, she looked around at how much the area had changed since being a kid.
Memories flooded back and played around in her head, bus trips to the beach, chips, sweets, and
summer afternoons in hideously frilly bathers.
Sarah thought shed heard a noise, but couldnt place it, though it snapped her out of her
daydream. Pulling her phone from her pocket, she checked to make sure that wasnt unlocked. No
definitely wasnt that.
Click.
This time, shed caught sight in the corner of her eye. A man standing a few meters from her, his
back now turned. A strap around his neck with the word Canon stitched into it. The bus
approached from the opposite end of the street, and pulled up in the curb at the stop. Sarah
boarded, and looked for a seat near the back but was left with only two options, the very front, or
the middle of the bus.
She took the front.
Click. Click. Click.
She knew now that she was being photographed, and the rage bubbled inside of her, and not even
slowly. She stood her ground, refusing to turn around and look at the photographer. It would only
give him more grounds to take ever more photos. However, the bus trip was short and she was
soon getting off at her stop.
Sarah stood, collected her bag and left the bus from the rear exit, being sure to pass the
photographer on her way, a sneer on her face. What happened next surprised her, the
photographer got off the bus at the same stop. He couldnt have made it more obvious if he tried.
At that, Sarah lost her temper. It was obvious what was happening. Turning on her heel, she
walked back towards the photographer and yanked the camera from his hand.
Are you done? she asked.
Done what?
I know what youre doing. She tore at the body of the camera, pulling out the memory card,
while the photographer struggled to regain his equipment.

Well, thats what you get when you cheat on your boyfriend.
Im not cheating on anyone. Sarah threw the camera to the ground, the lens cracking as it hit the
concrete.
Really? Dating Cumberbatch, lunching with Hiddleston? Its going to be a great headline.
Except I have the memory card and you dont. Sarah ran for the next corner, the photographer
hot on her heels.

Chapter End Notes

Well, well, well. I wonder how this will go down. How will Sarah get out of this?
And will Ben respond well?

Take Responsibility
Chapter Summary

These two! I don't even know what they're doing to ME anymore.

Am loving the feedback, comments, and kudos, so please keep them coming.

Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

No, you know what, this isnt good enough. Ben paced back and forth across Sarahs living
room, hands on his hips.
Ben, Im sorry, she repeated constantly.
Sarah, its just not good enough, he implored. You cant do this sort of thing. They waited until
I was back on home soil to print this shit. This is not fair on me, Im trying to build my profile, not
have it tarnished.
He was following me through Brighton!
I dont care! Ben shouted back at her. Sarah, I do not care! You ignore people like that!
Well, why would you care? It wasnt you it was happening to. She spat. Dont worry that
people are following me, taking my photo while Im trying to spend time with family. But the
minute it tarnishes your reputation, then its an issue.
They take my photo all the time! I cant walk outside for a coffee without being hounded, but do
you see me doing that? No. Because Im an adult, Sarah, I smile and nod and get along with my
life, doing whats important.
Sarah sat back in her couch, her face crumpling. Theyd been arguing for over an hour, going
around and around in circles. Bens face wore a permanent scowl as he was left to clean up after
headlines that his girlfriend had attacked a cameraman, broken his equipment and then ran after
him down the street. There were press releases, new equipment purchased and apologies flying
left right and centre as he tried to calm the storm that had erupted shortly after he arrived home.
You know, Sarah, I think this is it. I mean, you want me, then you dont want me, but youll
hang out with all my friends out in public when Im not around. I feel like Im beating my head
against the wall. Leave the cameraman with me, Ill sort him out, but dont contact me again.
Ben, thats not fair. Sarah rose to watch as he collected his jacket and walked towards the front
door.
No, whats not fair is me having to clean this up. Im too busy to be doing this type of crap.
The door slammed, a motorbike kicked over and he rode off into the night. Not wanting to leave
things like this between them, Sarah left after him, a taxi affording her a quick ride across town to
Bens house. She gave the door a thunderous rap and waited for a response.

The door swung open. What?

You dont get to just walk out on me. Sarah pushed past and into the entry foyer.
Really? You didnt give me a lot of choice. Ben slammed the door shut. You dont want to be
seen in public with me, but youll go out with Tom for lunch?
I went with Erin and Tom, not just Tom.
Thats not my point, he hissed. You cant be seen with me -.
Oh for pitys sake, Cumberbatch, Sarah spat. You cant keep yourself in one place for long
enough to warrant a relationship. Im not going to have a part time boyfriend.
I do my best when Im here, though. I do my best.
Really? Once fortnight is the best you can offer?
Im not going around in circles, Sarah. Leave. He pulled the front door open.
No.
Go on. He gestured to the front landing. I have to be up early for work in the morning, I dont
need this.
Thats right. Sorry, I forgot, I get in the way of work.
Sarah stormed out and spent the next hour walking home. It was a Saturday night, so she didnt
care for being home at any decent hour. Erin was out, and would be all weekend. Theyd hardly
seen each other since shed taken up with Tom. She missed the laughs, and could have done with
an ear that night. Instead, she went home, showered and climbed into bed.
Ben tossed and turned that night, unable to work through the situation in his head. Normally, once
his thinking cap was on, he could sort through logical steps. Hed been through worse than this
before, much worse, but he couldnt shake Sarah, or the look of desperation on her face as shed
apologised over and over again.
He climbed out of bed early the next morning, shaved and dressed, ready to be picked up for a trip
to set. His fingers danced across the screen of his phone as he contemplated an early morning text
message.
Come to set. Have coffee. Dont want things to end like this.
@@@
A week on from his text message and hed heard nothing. Instead Sarah chose to ignore him and
bury herself in work, as she did when things upset her. Shed had meetings with her employer,
who hoped she wasnt bringing any pent up aggression to work. It took a bit to explain the
situation, as insane as it sounded, but she did her best either way to keep her head about water and
her mind on an even keel.
Ben had tried to give her some space, ploughing through his own schedule of filming, interviews
and the like. It didnt stop. Erin had taken some time away from Tom, at his insistence, so that she
could spend some time with Sarah and make sure she was okay.
Yeah, you know. Shit happens, doesnt it? Sarah huffed, wrapped up on the couch in blankets,

pyjamas and socks.

It does, Erin agreed. But we werent doing anything wrong by having lunch.
He does have a point though. I wont be seen in public with him, but Ill lunch with his friends.
Thats a bit of a kick in the guts.
You gonna see him again?
I dont think so. Sarah shook her head.
I worked out who it was that spilled your details to the media. It had been weighing on her mind
to mention it, but she decided she should.
Who?
It was a mistake, though, so you know, go easy on her.
Who was it?
I think it was Hannah. She mightve gotten over excited and tagged you in one of those photos of
you and Ben at the Star Trek premiere. She told me once everything started going down. I didnt
know how to tell you.
I guess its a bit redundant now, anyway. Ive brought enough shit on myself to warrant
deserving that.
Thats not true. You didnt deserve that. Erin shook her head. I dont agree with that.
Erins phone beeped at her. A text message from J.J. Field.
Are you at home? Is Sar with you?
She looked at Sarah, confused, before tapping out a reply.
Yeah. Im home, Sar is here, too.
Less than a minute later, Sarahs phone beeped.
Coffee tomorrow night. My shout. Pick you up at 6.
Sarah looked at Erin. Why does J.J. want to have coffee with me?

Chapter End Notes

*drumroll* things are about to get very... interesting.... stay tuned! The next chapter
will be much, much sooner than they have been lately. xo

Apologies!
I'm so sorry for being a hot mess! I've been completely snowed in working on my novel, but these
two are still kicking around waiting to talk. I'm going to try and give them some time tomorrow!
Thank you so much for waiting around.
In the mean time, if you want to have a look see what my novel is about:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24931878-red
Thanks! xo

Ulterior Motives?
Chapter Summary

Okay, we're back! The next chapter is currently just about finished, so watch out for
that one soon!
Where were we???
Right, so ... it looks like things have hit the skids with Ben and Sarah, again, and
suddenly J.J. wants to catch up for a coffee. He was a good help last time, so what
harm could it do this time?

The doorbell rang, and Sarah scuttled down the stairs to answer it. Shed spent the day chewing
over what it could possibly mean, or not mean.
Hes helped out before, with Ben, surely thats it, isnt it? she whispered to Erin, who had come
through from the kitchen.
Or not.
Thanks for that. Sarah rolled her eyes and opened the front door.
J.J. wrapped her up in a hug, a quick peck on the cheek as a greeting, before he let himself in the
house and through to the kitchen to find Erin working on dinner.
Hi, J.J, Sarah mused as he walked away.
Sorry, hello, he answered, kissing the other cheek as she joined them in the kitchen.
Inane chatter kept the room abuzz for the next thirty minutes until Sarah reminded him they were
going out for coffee. Erin was entertaining as always with stories about work, J.J. offering up his
own quips about a film he was currently working on, and Sarah joining in where she could,
though work had been flat for her lately.
You ready to go? J.J. looked at her.
Only waiting for you, she answered sarcastically.
Dont wait up, Ez. He smiled, guiding Sarah to the front door.
Oh, Im not known for doing that.
They ended up in a restaurant, as opposed to a late night coffee shop, Sarah ordering a cocktail to
try and relax.
So, how are you? J.J. leaned across the table and into the conversation.
Ive been better, but things will settle down.
You seen Ben lately?

No, she replied, her answer snipped.

Oh, okay. Going to see him again?
I doubt it, her replies were showing her temper shortening.
Right, sure. He nodded, grabbing the menu and browsing over it.
He was nervous, skittish, and looking to be avoiding a particular element of conversation. Sarah
watched as his eyes travelled around the room, as if waiting for someone else to turn up. His
attention back to the menu, and then back to Sarah as he realised she was watching him.
Whats wrong? he asked.
You.
Me? he chuckled.
Whats going on J.J? Whats the point of tonight?
He reminded her of Tom in so many ways it wasnt funny, particularly in the looks department.
J.J. was wearing his hair blond at the time for a film, and his blue eyes werent too dissimilar to
Toms. It struck her suddenly that she could be looking at a debacle on the spectacle of the
Lunch with Tom incident, until she reminded herself that it didnt matter anymore.
Well, you see his voice trailed off.
No, I dont see, she answered.
The thing is
Sarah cocked an eyebrow at him.
I really like you, Sarah.
What?
And Ive watched you and Cumberbatch try and get your shit together for an age now. He
wouldnt know a gift from the Gods if they came and slapped his arse. I was hoping that you and I
could spend some time together.
Sarah stood up, looking around to see if anyone else she knew was in the restaurant, thinking
what shed just heard was a joke.
Im sorry, no. This is all still very raw for me, Im sorry, I cant J.J. You are lovely, I promise you
that you are, and I dont want to not see you as a friend anymore, because I do like you. I just
need time to distance myself from this mess with Ben.
You cant even just think about maybe going to see a movie with me?
No, matey, Im sorry. I do appreciate your lovely words, though, but no. I just need to step away
from dating for a bit.
She could read him like a book. He was upset, of course he was, it was to be expected, and she
felt terrible, she just wasnt interested in anything at the moment. With that, she took her leave,
walking out to the street and into the night.

It seemed strange, J.J.s sudden profession of interest. Only a short time ago, hed offered advice
on how to fix things with Ben and, next thing, he was trying to take his place. Sarah ran up the
stairs of her flat, unlocked the door and walked inside to find Tom and Erin going for it on the
couch, in all their glory.
The room was deathly quiet, no one saying anything, and neither Tom nor Erin saying anything in
return. Instead of creating a scene, Sarah walked upstairs and went straight to bed, not hungry
enough to warrant interrupting her friends on the couch to try and make a sandwich.
Her phone lit up the quiet room.
Sorry if I overstepped the mark. I do like you very much, might seem strange, I know, but there
you have it.
She felt bad. She couldnt make heads or tails of any of the situations shed found herself in lately,
and decided to just worry about the only relationship she was in on a permanent basis, the one
with herself. Take care of myself, and the rest will follow, she told herself.
No, no harm done. Just cant right now. She replied.
What if we just go to the pictures as friends. Nothing more, no expectations?
Sarah sighed heavily, sure she knew what the old no expectations line meant.
Look sure. What harm can it do?

Round Two
Chapter Summary

So, a second coffee outing with JJ? Wonder what Sarah's getting herself into, here?
Are they both on the same page about what their coffee dates mean?
Also, good to see Ben home from promotional duties.

Sarah met J.J. at the local theatre at the end of her next week of work. Things had calmed down
considerably after the incident with Ben, and her meeting with the principal, so she figured there
was no harm in heading out for dinner and a film.
She stood out front of the cinema, wind blustering and whipping at the lapels of her jacket, wisps
of her hair flying everywhere. J.J. arrived late, and they snuck into the film just as the lights
dimmed. She reached into her pocket to switch off her phone to find it full of messages from Ben.
Sarah?
Im sorry, please call.
I hate not talking to you.
I was an arse.
Can you call me please?
Right. Im going to turn up on your doorstep if you cant answer.
The film finished, and they made their way to a local late night cafe. Sarah looked at her phone
nervously, still distracted by her messages, as she listened to J.J. prattle on about a film he was
currently shooting.
So far, the coffee date had seemed harmless, their second in a fortnight. Hed tried to pry
information out of her again, but she simply smiled and let on nothing other than the fact that
whatever was going on with Ben, wasnt going on anymore and she wasnt looking for anyone to
replace him.
@@@
Ill be home Friday night, a little after 9. Please come over. Need to see you.
He wasnt giving up anytime soon. Ben had just sent Sarah a message from the other side of the
globe. It was some sort of televised red carpet event, and she watching it from the comfort of her
kitchen, all the girls in attendance.
Silence fell across the room as Ben came into camera shot. Sarah felt herself flush shades of
crimson up her neck and through her cheeks. He looked good. In fact, he looked great, and it
made the ache inside her all that more noticeable.

Gah. I fucked it up, she grumbled, watching a reporter shove a microphone under his nose.
The room watched on as Ben answered a few questions about Star Trek and Sherlock, before the
cheeky questions about a girlfriend started.
No, very single at the moment. Wouldnt want to put anyone out with my hectic schedule. He
smiled curtly at the reporter, who went on to ask questions about Sarah.
Oh come on! She shouted at the television.
Ben refused to comment, brushing the reporter off completely before he walked away.
That face, though. Celeste looked at her. If thats not heartbreak, I dont know what is. You
could almost hit the pause button on it like Ralph Wiggum.
@@@
Ben found himself in a taxi on the Friday night. It was warm, in fact, a little bit too warm and it
smelt like beer, cigarettes, and piss. However, it was taking him to his destination, so he couldnt
afford to complain. An early call the next morning meant he couldnt be too late, but he needed to
try anyway.
Fresh from his flight, he stood at Sarahs door and knocked. The glow of the kitchen light seeped
through the stained glass of the front door, so he waited patiently, collar turned up against the cold.
Sarah stood at the kitchen cleaning up from dinner when she heard the knock first, and then the
twist of the doorbell. She knew that silhouette anyway, her stomach twisting and turning in knots
at the thought.
Erin came bounding down the stairs figuring it was Tom for her, the door almost pulled from its
hinges. The change in her facial expression made Ben laugh.
Im very sorry to disappoint, but would Sarah be home?
Yeah, shes just in the kitchen. You seen Tom?
No, sorry, just got off the plane. Ben volunteered. Can I come in?
Sure. Erin moved out of the way. Did you bring me a souvenir?
Im sorry?
Its a joke, dont worry. She waved her hand. Youve been away, you know, souvenirs? You
know, cute actors, and the like?
Not sure I know any, but Ill remember to be on the lookout next time.
Ben walked past her into the foyer, leaving his suitcase and jacket near the coat stand.
Apprehensively, he walked past the lounge and into the kitchen, finding Sarah clutching the sink
for dear life. She turned to look at him slowly.
Hey. He smiled.
Hey.
How are you? he asked quietly, leaning into the hutch against the wall.

Good. You? How was your trip?

Busy. Glad to be home. He shoved his hands in his pockets nervously. Hows work?
Good. Really enjoying it.
Oh, good. Glad to hear.
The silence was thick, neither of them sure of what to say to the other, or where to start saying it.
Ben spied Sunne in Splendour on the counter, dog eared and with a bookmark in it.
I hear thats a good book. He nodded in the direction of the counter.
Sarah smiled. Yeah, its not bad.
Whered you get it from?
Some weird bloke I met. The humour was working for her better than bare honesty.
Yeah, look. Ben scratched the back of his head. I reckon anyone thatd want to read that
would be pretty weird. Probably a complete lout, too.
Sarah smiled, shaking her head. Hes not that bad, actually.
Hes not? Really?
No, hes really not.
Got time for a coffee then? He tried his luck.
Of course. Garden variety or plunger?
Whatevers going.

Chapter 20
Chapter Summary

Ben's back in town, they've both had time to think. Can they come up with a solution
that works for both of them?
Only a short chapter this week! :)

Ben left in the early hours of the morning, pleased with the night hed had. Sarah saw him out the
front door with a kiss goodbye, and a promise that they would catch up properly in the next few
days and have a proper debrief and discussion about everything that had happened in the last few
weeks.
That catch up came the very next morning; a text message followed by an impatient phone call
from Ben saw Sarah in a taxi and heading towards his home. Erin stood in the bathroom next to
her, trying as much as she could to help Sarah get herself ready.
Im okay, really. Hes seen me looking worse, she hushed Erin with a wave of the hand.
Ah yes, but today you go in for the kill. Much beauty, such pretty, much wow from Ben.
Sarah laughed. Im sure Ill be fine with what little makeup I have on.
Got protection?
What? Sarah laughed. That old line again.
Just saying, you know, sex for lunch is a good thing.
Is Tom here? I have a feeling Tom is here somewhere.
Mehhhhhyeah, hes in my room, Erin admitted.
Is this why youre in a hurry to help me and turf me out?
Partly, yeah.
Sarah laughed. Well, cant say youre not honest.
Of all things, Im always honest with you.
How are things going anyway? They okay?
Yeah, we had a bit of time off and now its all good.
Oh, great. Sarah nodded. Good.
@@@
So, what do you want to do? Ben looked at Sarah, sat across from him at his kitchen table.

She scratched her head, thoughts and words not matching up to form anything coherent. You
know, I dont know, Ben.
That makes two of us, I guess.
I mean, I adore spending time with you. I think weve both been dicks about this whole thing,
perhaps myself more than you.
Errr, not entirely true, but I take your sentiment in the spirit of the game.
Well, no, I mean, I cant expect to play hide and seek forever, she offered. On the same token,
I wasnt prepared for what happened, so it became very scary, very quickly.
Okay, so if we were, to say, start over...
See, is that possible? she asked. I mean, Im out there on public record now, so the minute
were seen together again, all hell will break loose. Again.
What do you suggest, then?
I dont know what to suggest. We could play cat and mouse, but Id like to go out occasionally,
and not to your house and not to my house, but to the cinema. I caught up with JJ last week and
we went to the pictures together and no one bothered us. I dont think I could do that if I were
with you, which is disappointing.
Disappointing for me, too, but I get invited to things that are, say, exclusive, and away from
prying eyes, so we could do that. Arrive separate, leave separate, that sort of thing. We could try
that?
Thats a bit poo. Sarah looked at him.
Poo?
Well, the idea of dating is that youre together, correct?
Yes, just trying to circumvent the media, thats all.
I could just put on my big girls blouse and deal with it?
Or that, I dont mind. Ben smiled. Why dont we just see what happens? Maybe shutting down
social media for a while will help?
Oh, theyre all set to secret now, Sarah snorted. After that time, far out.
Good, good.
Both were silent for a moment before a look crossed Bens face. Confusion, perhaps.
Whats wrong? Sarah asked.
Are we actually going to do this? Properly attempt this?
Uh, yeah. She nodded. We are.
Ben smiled. Got a television interview tonight. You coming?
Absolutely.

Flash Photography
Ben clutches Sarahs hand tightly as they sit in the car outside the television studios. A driver is
doing a quick drop and run, and they get themselves ready before a door is opened for them and
they step out. Ben first, and Sarah follows him not a moment later.
Theres a small contingent of fans outside, camera phones and real cameras at the ready.
Excitement reached fever pitch once they realised it was Ben that had gotten out of the car,
whispers becoming words, becoming loud conversations, becoming excited yelps and screams.
You okay? Ben asked, ignoring everyone else around them.
Im okay,
Just follow Karon inside and Ill meet you inside shortly, okay?
Cameras click, flashes going off in a reminder of a past life spent in discos, and Sarah followed
Karon inside and waited in the green room, Ben appearing twenty minutes later. He didnt stay for
long, instead being taken to a makeup suite in preparation for his interview.
She watched proudly from the sidelines as he spoke, humbly, of the last few roles he had been in,
of Star Trek and of Sherlock, and what was coming up in regards to that. He spoke warmly of his
parents, co-stars and friends, and tried not to get dragged into discussions of the girlfriend nature.
So, last we heard, there were rumours of you with a girl named Sarah?
Benedict laughed nervously, scratching the space between his top lip and his nose. What of it?
Well, you tell me.
No, Im not telling you anything, he chuckled.
Sarah cringed, in direct site of the chat show host.
Nothing to tell, perhaps? he tried.
Correct, Benedict agreed, and the topic was changed swiftly.
It felt like it was over before it began, Ben and Sarah making a hasty exit while the show was still
filming. Wrapped in long coats and hats, they found a quiet spot near his home for a late supper
and drinks.
So, was it good for you? Ben cocked his mouth up into a grin.
Sarah laughed, leaned over the table clutching her own elbows. Yes, it was good.
Overwhelming, but good.
What was overwhelming?
The flash photography.
He nodded. Sure. Its definitely something that you need to adjust to. Not saying you personally,
but as a person, like me, for instance. Its something else to get used to.
Conversation ebbed and flowed, rocked back and forth like the midnight sea, and soon they were

walking back to Benedicts house looking through the wine rack.

Laughter gave way to a kiss, then another, and another, before they found themselves a tangled
mess on the sofa. Hands on bare skin, fingers tangled and hastily removed clothes, a struggle with
boxer briefs and then there was skin. Skin on skin. Ben, warm and solid on top of Sarah, lean and
smooth to the touch, no words exchanged but whispered declarations in the dark.
Sarah woke the next morning in Bens bedroom. Crisp, fresh linen, and the warm, fresh smell of a
shower running. She climbed out of the bed, replaced the oversized t-shirt shed been offered as a
sleep slip the night before and padded her way into the ensuite. Her fingers gripped the door frame
tightly as she watched quietly. A complete contradiction, a Khan body that was quickly shrinking
back to Sherlock proportions, though he already had the hair to go with that role.
Morning. Ben smiled.
Good morning to you, she replied. Sleep well?
Amazing. You?
Wonderfully.
What do you want for breakfast? I need to be on set soon, but we can get breakfast.
Youre going to make me breakfast?
If you like. He rinsed shampoo from his hair and stepped out of the shower.
Eggs, Sarah stated.
You want eggs?
Yep. She turned and walked back to the bedroom to dress quickly.
How do you have your eggs? Ben called.
Sarah snorted. Please let me say it.
Go on, he sighed, a joke hed heard a million times before.
Benedict, she snorted, barely able to contain her laughter.
You are so original. Id love to sit in on one of your classes one day.
Youre more than welcome to, you know. You can give talks about the perils of being a
superstar.
The perils of dating one. Ben slapped her with the towel and dressed quietly in front of her.
Jokes like that will not get you invited to Christmas dinner.
Whatever, Sarah disagreed. Theyd better be good.

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