 
Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2012 Dee Brown

All Rights Reserved

ISBN 978-0-9563190-2-9

A Tempting Taboo

By

Charley Dee

After three attempts Rosie Budd has decided she is totally unsuited to a life of wedded bliss and decides to 'give up the guys' and go it alone!

She has one daughter from her first marriage, who is now twenty six, they are complete opposites.

Desperate to find somewhere to rent in London so she can continue working as an Agony Aunt with 'Chic' magazine, she accepts her old friend Jack's offer to rent a room in his pub 'The Kasbah,' which to coin a phrase exasperates her daughter!

Join Rosie as she starts her life all over again in this back street pub, fun and antics, twists and turns, coping with her pretentious daughter, plus all the misdemeanours of Jack's life, will she ever trust a guy again, or will they always be Taboo?

Chapter 1

Why has it taken me three attempts to realise I'm totally unsuited to a life of wedded bliss......that old adage if at first and all that comes to mind! Trouble is it was never bliss, number one Nick Ryder was a definite Mr Player....do as I say not as I do, smart but showy! We met when I was seventeen, I must have been infatuated with his looks and the very fact he looked my way, how shallow was I! Then I met husband number two Rory Simms, who worked away through the weeks, I thought this would keep our relationship 'alive'...however he turned out to be Mr Monotonous control freak! How do I pick them? You'd have thought by now I'd have learnt my lesson, but no I met number three Paul Bassett (and no liquorice allsorts in sight)! Instead of improving this one had to be the worse, A real classic, known to his mates as a loveable rogue, I'd forget the loveable he was a rogue! To express all his qualities in one phrase Mr Bullshit!

I hear you saying why did it take you three times??? I wish I had a plausible answer, but alas no such luck apart from maybe, 'a glutton for punishment'? Or bamboozled by phoney promises...possibly made between the sheets! So no Rosie Budd, I chastise myself, from now on marriage is taboo!

My only offspring is my daughter Penny Lee Ryder who made her appearance at my tender age of eighteen; her father of course was husband number one. Penny Lee is now twenty six and I continuously find myself wondering who the parent is.

Fortunately this final divorce did not involve the sale of a property, we were living in a rented flat, and apart from an old acoustic guitar and a pile of CD's there was really nothing worth fighting over, as our venturesome cat had decided to go walk about a few weeks earlier (probably deafened by the rows)! Although I mustn't forget to mention the pile of 'Williams' he had accrued, yes one of his finest attributes was being a good for nothing lazy shirker!

So I've just moved into a solitary room in my old mates pub, where I'll do a few shifts behind the bar when I'm not working, to compensate for rent, I also intend to keep his books, or being honest 'cook' the books, as Jacks pub can only be described as a 'Den of Iniquity'.... The Kasbah! Opening hours fluctuate daily according to how many shots of Sambuca Jack shot down his neck the previous night, as well as other possible 'stimulants' (you know what I mean). Don't you?

'Can you open up for me today girlfriend?' Jack shouts.

'Yeah no probs I'm not working today, what time?'

'When your ready babe I'm gonna hit the sack, call me later.'

I work on a girlie magazine in the city called 'Chic' I do four days a week. I write a column called Rosie's Remedies so I'm the proverbial agony aunt! Readers write in with their problems and worries, I offer options...I can here you saying 'with your past record,' thing is I'm actually good at helping others, just hopeless at helping myself, or you may think practicing what I preach! I also manage to fit in a little mystery shopping, mostly testing out meals in local bars, which is pretty cool when you think about it, free meal different venues, can't be bad!

'Shit that hurt!' I curse as I struggle to pull the bolt on the front door of the pub, more skin off my knuckles.

As the door opens Penny Lee flits passed me with that usual truculent look on her face, another ear bashing is nigh!

'Are you actually going to live in this dump? It's hideous mother'!

'It's not the Ritz Pen I'll give you that, sociable though.'

'What's happened to your standards?'

'You know I'm not like you Pen, I can make my home anywhere, and I'm not materialistic.'

'Home, how can you call this a home? It stands for everything that's immoral, indecent and illicit, including Jack!'

'That's unfair, so he's had a couple of hols at her Majesty's pleasure doesn't make him a bad person.'

'Bad! Mother he's totally lawless, loud and vulgar!'

'Well Pen I'm not asking you to live here lets remember beggars can't be choosers.'

'If you hadn't been married so many times maybe you'd have a stable home.'

'Give over love, you've got your own classy little flat and a dependable job....we're different people honey with different values, I'm not asking you to move in!'

'I sometimes wonder if you'll ever grow up mother, or how long before you meet husband number four.'

'No! That is never gonna happen darling, this is a new start for me, and guys are taboo! By the way are you still seeing the same guy, what's his name?'

'His name Mother is Bertram.'

'Surely you call him Bert Pen don't you? Bit posh else.'

'No his parents insist on Bertram.'

'Best not bring him in here then love.'

'No mother it would be too much of an embarrassment, you have to move out of here!'

'Sorry Pen that's not gonna happen in the foreseeable future, it suits me, my work, my social life and most of all my finances.'

'Then we won't be seeing much of each other then.'

'That's down to you love, it's about time you accepted me for who I am and not what you want me to be.'

'I'm going now in the hope you'll soon come to your senses! Goodbye mother.'

How come we're so different, apart from the fact we're both tall Penny isn't at all like me, she's as dark as I'm blonde, she must take after her father he's tall and dark, Mm... plus bossy and pretentious, me what you see is what you get. On reflection Penny's like my older sister as she's that way inclined is our Clara, tends to look down on me, I mean she married her first boyfriend and they're still together after thirty three years....(I'm thinking habit or happy). So her opinion of me is questionable...our parents moved to Spain for their retirement, although they did make an appearance at all my weddings; however it has been made abundantly clear that a fourth is definitely out of the question....my take on this is that my Dad is utterly fed up with trying to give me away!

'C'mon Jack it's four o'clock.' I shout through his bedroom door, followed by a series of knocks.

'OK Clipper I'm on it.' He mumbles in return.

Just one of Jack's sobriquets he uses for me.

I'd had the bar open since two o'clock and not seen a customer, so I'd spent time on my agony aunt page; this was the norm during the week so Jack tells me, probably because he doesn't open until around four o'clock, no ones used to the Kasbah being open. I've known Jack for around ten years, during that time I've learnt a great deal about his life style, he's been married several times, although not sure anyone knows exactly how many, apart from maybe the ex-spouses. He was a dancer in his heyday but now at the grand old age of fifty five he is single and tends to follow the lifestyle of 'shaggam and leggit'! Seeing himself as a babe magnet.....and not too fussed at the age of the babes either! He has a terrific sense of humour and his personality puts him 'right out there'! I feel the need to assure at this stage that I am not one of his bed buddies; we're just great mates that trust and respect each other. I close my eyes to most of his habits and let the language fly over my head. Jack's philosophy in life is to burn the candle at both ends, live each day as if it were your last, and in his own words you won't find him hanging around any post office waiting for his pension, pretty sure that puts it in perspective!

In daylight this pub is the pits, the décor (if you can call it that) is minimal, a mish mash of photos adorn the dark gloomy walls, mostly of people in various states of undress....inebriated (to be truthful rat arsed)! Or doing there own impression of a Muppet on acid! There are generous gaps between the floor boards, 'so the mice can scuttle up for a nightly disco'! You think I jest Mm....there must be at least a century of unmentionable fluids that have enhanced the floor colour and texture (if you get my drift) as you walk there's a tacky feel which often detaches your feet from your shoes! (Your plates of meat from your rhythm and blues) as they say here! The juke box on the wall no longer requires coins to select the discs, as Jack has executed his own 'regime'! So when he is in the bar the pub resounds with continual dance music at ear splitting level which reverberates throughout the bar. The bar counter is probably the most solid part of the whole building.....when the nights in full flow it's not advisable to rest your elbows as you could find yourself attached! Behind the bar or 'jump' as it's commonly known it's a real eye opener. There's a glass washer balanced precariously on a few house bricks, a minor detail it doesn't work! A cooling cabinet has the same problem, although, the light works! Underneath the front of the bar there are a variety of glasses and bottles....some empty some full. Nuts and some rather strange flavoured crisps are stored in nooks and crannies where ever there's room....plus unmentionable junk! The top shelf consists of Vodka, Gin, Brandy, whiskey, Sambuca and Baileys, as these are the best sellers, another lower shelf holds wines plus a medley of bottles all different shapes sizes and colours. The Alco pops and bottled beers are in the 'cooling' cabinet (you know the one that doesn't work)! Please keep up! On tap there's Guinness, two lagers and cider...no real ale...Jack would never cope with that...Or...he can't get his hands on any! Unmentionable signs hang from the shelves, along with some fluffy hand cuffs (please don't ask). A pool table and dart board are located in a large alcove at the far end of the bar, though darts are not allowed on weekend nights, unless of course you want your ears pierced! The ice bucket that sits on the bar is half a wooden barrel that's definitely seen better days. Chairs and tables are a jumble of odds and sods, plus half a dozen moth eaten stalls that stand by the front of the bar. Oh I must tell of the toilets... you have to walk down a tiled passageway that appears to be taking you underground and is always flooded (not too sure what with but we won't go there)! Maybe enough said on that area at the moment.

I hope you can now visualise the Kasbah, surprisingly it does look better in the dark...or maybe I mean after a few sherbets!

'OK girl I'll take over now.' Jack declares. 'Get yourself settled in.'

'Cheers Jack I think I'll do just that.'

So a new era of my life begins........

Chapter Two

My room is 'run of the mill' in fact could be better, but hey ho I can make it cosy....wherever I lay my hat and all that. So I'm thinking a coat of white emulsion will work wonders plus a few posters of drop dead gorgeous guys with rippling thighs...purely to remind me they do exist even if it is now in dreams! There's just a double bed and a dressing table, so I'll search eBay for a strong clothes rail....sorted! I'm a minimalist anyway, and unlike Penny Lee not at all materialistic. I'll go and drag a couple of chairs in from the rather dilapidated function room across the hall; they'll do nicely to store my clothes for the time being.

While sorting these issues I hit on the idea of a few changes for me....Mm having had long hair with blonde highlights for maybe too many years, the theory hits me, new start new style, give the Barnet a trendy shorter cut...red? I am definitely ready to make a statement, I could always apply to Gok Wan...No...it's the naked bit that clinches that idea. I don't think so! A few hours trailing around Oxford Street has to be on the agenda for some trendy new gear.

I'll try to enlighten you about Jack and the limited info I have on his family, his Dad Tom lives close to the pub and calls in for a pint of Guinness two or three times a week. I've heard Jack mention it's Toms eightieth birthday coming up soon and I think he's planning a knees up for the ol' boy, I'm pretty sure this will be a daytime affair....you'll understand why I'm sure.

Due to Jacks couple of holidays at her Majesty's pleasure he cannot hold a licence for the pub, so his older brother Bill holds the licence in his name, Bill and his wife Lena live in Spain, they make an appearance when necessary so I'm lead to believe, as Bills philosophy is 'if it aint broke don't mend it!' As far as Jack's offspring are concerned it's rather like his wives, how many? Where, when and how? He plays these cards very close to his chest.

Now when he handed the books over to me to 'cook' I can only describe them as a parody, they were in a very battered crisp box (Welsh Rarebit flavour I hasten to add) the box contained a stack of unopened mail plus a medley of screwed up receipts....as for a book I'm still looking! I intend to do my utmost to sort out this scam! As for VAT Jack thinks it's a container to hold alcohol! The unopened mail dates back to when God was in short trousers, with nearly all demanding money. However he does manage to pay the electricity bills. He buys his draft beers from a local supplier who delivers on demand for cash only, breweries no longer deliver as it seems he owes them all money. Top shelf wines and spirits come from cash and carry or the local off licence, as do the large bags of ice which he stores in the cellar in an old chest freezer, as he doesn't own an ice making machine...now there's a surprise! Should my daughter discover all of these little misdemeanours I truly believe she'd attempt to drag me out of here kicking and screaming...ha-ha, what the eye doesn't see and all that! Did I mention most of the time the Kasbah doors are kept locked, though there is a squawk box...I wonder why?

OK! That's me organised, well in theory. So now to eat and then continue to work on my column, as tomorrow lunch time is my deadline for this week. Majority of letters I receive at 'Rosie's Remedies' are from females, although recently there's been an increase from the guys, I always find these intriguing as I feel they find it more difficult to write. There is a particular one that I received this week that I'm finding a tad unusual. The letter is from a thirty year old male who has signed with the letter 'O'....contents as follows, seems he's been living with his girl friend for a couple of years and up until three months ago they were very close, social time spent together and brilliant sex (Mm good to see some peeps get to hide the sausage) now she's started going out with her mates at weekends, and the evenings she stays home she spends most of her time on face book and the like. Having tried to confront her, but to no avail, just negative answers. My problem is that she also recently lost her job and doesn't seem to have made any effort to get a new one, so is she taking me for a mug as I'm paying all the bills. I put a lot into the relationship; although we rent the flat I've made it look really cool. Your thoughts would be appreciated Rosie.

Now I do receive far more intricate and much deeper problems as you can imagine, most young guys would just split and run, so my curiosity has got the better of me this time and I'm going to include his letter on my published page, possible it will encourage more guys to write in (that's my theory). Principally I find his letter inspiring that a young guy is concerned enough to want to know why his relationship seems to have gone awry, or basically come to nothing.

I'm chewing my pen as I ponder a reply, my first thoughts immediately lie with social networking sites, and face book has a lot to answer for as far as relationships go, well truthfully the internet entirely. Seems this girl is on a good thing (taking the proverbial piss for a start) so I'll suggest a meal out, or if she refuses perhaps cook a meal at home (takeaway if your no Jamie Oliver) my philosophy in life is say what's on your mind, ask a direct question, no point in beating around the bush unless you want this fiasco to continue. If its curtains stay calm maybe she'll tell you where it went wrong.

I'm thinking another guy or girl.... (it happens), either way I don't hold out much hope for this pair, unless of course she's dumped, and thinks better the devil I know, some people think that way, now me I've got rid of all the devils I know and extremely thrilled about it to! Obviously I have to have my diplomatic hat on when helping others!

I can hear my mobile ringing, must be in my jacket pocket, Oh no I'll ignore that one it's the last ex Paul Bassett, he rings often, best ignored, what is he trying to achieve? He's probably skint again, one day that guy may realise he could work for a living; the gravy train he was riding on is no longer running!

Think I'll nip down to the bar and see when Jack wants me to work at the weekend.

'Hi girlfriend how's it going?'

'OK I've sorted out what I need to buy, and what do you reckon to me having a make over?'

'What bits you gonna change?' Jack laughs.

'Just the Barnet, shorter, maybe red?'

'Go for it!'

'Yeah why not new start, new looks eh! By the way Jack when do you want me to work at the weekend?'

'Friday night you me and Sam we've got karaoke on, Saturday night you and Sam if that's OK?'

'No probs, what about Sunday lunch?'

'I'll bargain with you Clipper I'll do the bar if you knock us up some lunch, you up for that?'

'I reckon you've got yourself a deal!'

We high five.

'Fancy a drink babe?'

'Why not, I'll just have half a cider please Jack, pretty quiet tonight eh?'

'Yeah the ol' codger's be in shortly to play darts, that's about as good as it gets tonight girl, what you up to?'

'Typing up my column have to be in the office early tomorrow, its deadline day, I won't wake you.'

'No fear of that babe, you'll never wake me up, anyway I might get lucky later, and I could still be up when you leave!'

'Jack you're a classic, loving It.!

Chapter 3

The sun was bursting through the window as I slowly opened one eye to check the time, six forty five, Mm I recollect an early start for me today, so with an effortless stretch I emerge from my very cosy bed. Quick shower should do the trick then a coffee and toast...if there's any bread. As the warm water refreshes me I recall that I completed my column last night ready for deadline, so with that in mind if I finish early enough I may be able to hit the shops in Oxford Street, I don't have much in the way of savings, however I think I deserve my new mini makeover! Wrapped in a huge bath towel I head for the kitchen to make the coffee...and there is bread...great I don't have to suffer the tummy growls until lunch time.

I managed to find a suitable clothes rail on eBay last night which should be with me in a few days; the seller is going to ring my mobile before delivery, as entrance to this pub is rather like attempting to get into Fort Knox! So I need to pick up a large white matt emulsion and a couple of brushes and I'm on my way! Did I mention I'm an annoyingly organised person! Just the Barnet to arrange now, if I'm extremely lucky my salon will fit me in tomorrow, as they fix most of the girls and guys hair from our office they're very obliging!

While dressing I consider how lucky I am to have a little shower room just for me, Jack has a bathroom on the next floor up which is next to his bedroom, there are a further two floors above that level which are virtually uninhabitable, how wonderful if someone would invest in this property and restore...could be past redemption though! Come on Rosie stop musing and get yourself out of here!

There are two doors to exit the pub and they are both in the bar, so I head for the side door, as I reach the bar I can hear voices seems Jacks had an all nighter, so I nip out quietly and head down the street towards the bus stop.

The Bus was packed though I must say I prefer it to the tube, suffering a tad from claustrophobia, you even get to see the same faces at times, which is quiet unique for London.

'Chic' offices are opened early by security, so heading through the main swing doors; I find there are already a couple of juniors in sorting out the mail, eager beavers! I have a small office of my own as do all the columnists, then there's a large 'pool' office where the rest of the staff work. The editor Harry James has the biggest office, he's a great guy I've known Harry for years even before he became editor, he lets me have last decisions on my page although we do discuss the issues, I love my job and take it seriously. 'Chic' magazine has been running for ten years and I was lucky enough to join at the beginning, in general the staff are good, however you always get one who's a pain, that lady is Diane Jacobs she writes a column on cookery, recipes and stuff and seems to have a problem with females of a certain age, that's basically anyone younger than herself, she is I'd guess mid fifties, she continuously runs to Harry with pathetic tales, fortunately for the rest of us he copes with her well. I seem to be in her line of fire most days; she does get under my skin, however up until now I've let it go over my head. Now apart from one other person I haven't advertised the fact I'm living at the Kasbah, mainly as I feel it's my business and secondly because I do have a plan in mind. My last ex Paul Bassett left me virtually penniless, I blame myself for allowing it to happen, but no point in dwelling on the past, I aim while living at the pub to save as hard as possible to get a deposit together for a small flat, this is going to take time but not having to pay rent is helping me enormously, although I'm working for Jack to cover the rent. Now Ms Jacobs would love this bit of info as yes you've guessed the Kasbah does have a bit of a reputation......

I mentioned one other person is aware of me living at the pub, and that's Samantha Shaw, Sam works here in the main office, she's also the other barmaid at the pub, there's rather a long story of how I met Sam, she's just twenty one now a bubbly girl with a great personality, natural blue eyed blonde and lots of fun. When married to husband number two Rory Simms (you remember the boring control freak) he worked away during the week so I worked a few evenings a week in a pub called the Castle, Sam's parents were regulars there and I got to know them well, best add here that's where I first met Jack, obviously Sam was just a school kid at the time. When she reached twenty one her parents Tony and Sue decided to move to Kent, due to Tony's work, Sam didn't want to go so she moved in with her Nan, Ann Shaw, and I promised I'd be around for her. Sam works for 'Chic' magazine and also works for Jack at the weekends, so that is how we all became connected. Jack treats us with the utmost respect....Ok the pubs dicey and Jacks a chancer, but whatever goes on in the Kasbah with recreational habits, it's kept apart from me and Sam, we don't care what they swallow, snort or smoke, the customers treat us with respect...call it honour among wide boys! But it works for us. Me and Sam are great people watchers and we find the whole situation hilarious, weekends is like watching the Muppets on acid!

'Hi Rosie you're an early bird.' Sam declares as she bursts into my office.

'Hi honey how you doing? I'm trying to get finished early so I can hit the shops for a while this afternoon.'

'Which shops, don't tell me Oxford Street?'

'How did you guess, need a couple of outfits for the bar, you can come if you want.'

'You know me and Oxford Street don't blend Rosie, once a year maybe.'

'Ok I'll let you off, I'm going to get white emulsion for the room as well, two paint brushes in case you fancy helping.'

'What shifts are we doing at the weekend?' Sam enquires.

'Both of us Friday and Saturday night.'

'Great I'll help you in the day times, be a laugh if nothing else and you can tell me all the gossip with Jack.'

'You're on.'

'Better go now as Lady Jacobs wants me to do some work for her.'

'Best go then Hun don't forget to salute her.'

Why couldn't Penny Lee be like Sam, I'm sure if she was our relationship would be heaps better, when the two of them meet I can always see the smile on Sam's face, she finds her amusing, not surprising really?

'Hi Harry can you spare me five?'

'Yeah come in Rosie, all done?'

'I just want to run the page past you and explain about using the letter from the young guy.'

'Ok if you think it's fitting, let's take a look.'

While Harry reads through my page I make a quick call to the hairdressers to make an appointment for tomorrow.

'Looks good Rosie, what made you select that letter?'

'He's a young guy and seems concerned enough about the relationship, my thoughts are we could attract more guys to write in therefore could increase male readers.'

'Good thinking, it's always encouraging for us to be more diverse, by the way how are things going for you, what's it like being single again?'

'I love it Harry, you know me have to move on.'

'Best way, you know I'm always here if you need a chat, how about we do lunch one day next week, you pick?'

'Sounds cool Monday or Tuesday's good for me.'

'Tuesday it is then.' Harry scribbles in his diary.

'Ok catch you later.'

Back in the office I make sure all my works in order for publishing, Sam's left a pile of letters on my desk to be considered for next week, she's probably put the more sensitive stories at the top. I'll spend from now until lunch scanning through; I also get many emails which again one of the girls scans for me.

As I leave the office I wave to Sam, at the same time I notice Diane Jacobs glares my way and looks at her watch. Get a life lady! Oxford Street here I come, I'm just in time for the bus to Marble Arch, that's good I can work my way down to Oxford Circus by that time I'll have had enough, can't resist a few minutes in the big Primark Store....cheap and cheerful although I still wish it was C & A's. I grabbed some colourful leggings. Next stop H & M fabulous store so I found a couple of pairs of skinny jeans they seem to be all the rage. It's very warm and every shop is packed, the media keep going on about on line shopping, but it doesn't seem to affect this famous street. With shoulder bag slung across my body (safest place around here) I hurry down to Jane Normans another one of my favourites...Wow they have a sale on so I snap up three tops, just need a couple of pairs of ballerina shoes and I'm done. I make my way back up towards Marble Arch have to go into M&S for food that's a must. Then a bus back to the pub as I can walk up to the local builders merchant and get them to drop the emulsion off at the pub when I'm home, it's always handy to know the local stores.

I've bought a very yummy looking pie in Marks, so I'll see if Jacks hungry when he gets up, I'm going to be a very good Samaritan now and give the pub a once over, the smell of polish always works wonders, and I'll wash all the glasses so when he comes down it's ready to go! (Truth, he probably won't even notice) ha-ha.

Chapter 4

That was quick, I've had a phone call to say they can deliver my clothes rail today, and then I'm off to the hairdressers for my restyle. The emulsions here as well so by next week my room should be looking good! Hopefully they're may be an improvement in me as well....Tonight Jack, Sam and me are running the bar...karaoke night it'll be fun...trouble is the nights here have a habit of running into morning at the Kasbah!

Now this is a different look Mm, how can I describe it a shorter, stylish tatty bob with various shades of reds...no not the pillar box colour...I like it, wonder what the others will think?

So tonight I'm wearing a pair of deep pink skinny jeans and a purple top colourful yes, can't wait for Sam's reaction.., after a quick snack I head down to the bar to get things ready.

'Wow girlfriend that's certainly 'out there.' Jack laughs.

'Does that mean an OK out there or put a bag on your head out there?'

'OK babe that hair colour matches my new glasses bitch!'

Jack wears glasses all the time, he coordinates the frame colours with his outfits I must have mentioned he's a touch flamboyant, plus he must spend a small fortune on the frames, must admit they do look pretty cool!

'What times Karaoke start?'

'Chris will be here shortly to set up; we'll start when all the Muppets turn up.'

'Oh My God, look at you, its cool Rosie!' laughs Sam.

'Is it, so why you laughing then honey?' I say with an equally big grin.

'Just imagining what Penny Lee would say if she could see you now, classic!'

'Never thought of that, still she's hardly likely to show her face tonight, didn't you know she thinks this is a den of iniquity.' We both laugh.

'What you two up to? Sam duck round the offie and get another large bottle of vodka babe, Oh and a Sambuca, your OK it aint raining.'

'I'm on it Jack d'you need anything Rosie?'

'No thanks honey I'm fine.'

Karaoke is setting up so we'll be ready to go in about half an hour, Jack keeps the side door open until about 9 o'clock then the squawk box takes over. The customers at the Kasbah are a diverse bunch, contrasting, the age range starts at eighteen and goes up to eighty, karaoke nights we get a big crowd, although the youngsters move on at midnight to local night clubs as there on the 'pull' (you know what I mean)! Now Jack may be a chancer and live life on the edge, but he also has nerves of steel as this dicey establishment keeps him in designer gear and a lifestyle he desires, he is quite unique I guess you could say! It's certainly not everyone's way of life.

The place is filling up and the song books are being leafed through at a rate of knots, and me and Sam are busy, to say most of the singing attempts are pretty crap would be an understatement, however there are a handful who can belt out a decent number! Jacks doing a bit of wheeling and dealing, with whatever he wheels and deals with, which we ignore.

'I think me and you should have a go one night Rosie, think of something you can sing.' Sam laughs.

'You want to clear the pub then honey? I'm up for it if you are, not tonight though let me get this one under my belt eh!'

We chatter when we meet at the till, did I say till it's like that one in the old Ronnie Barker comedy, (you know the one 'Open all Hours), well surely you didn't expect a techno! We add up in our heads as the till doesn't add for you (now there's a surprise) Jack's policy round everything off to the nearest quid girls! He's happy so are the customers so why should we complain. By ten o'clock the pub is buzzing and Jack starts to dance as he serves, be churlish not to follow suit, so between fits of the giggles we throw a few moves. I think I mentioned Jack was a dancer in another life and Sam calls his dancing 'cockaleptic'...heard of it? Me neither, she dances behind him mimicking his steps, being a good mover she does it brilliantly and has the bar in hysterics! By this time on karaoke nights the patrons are all usually in, so it's a surprise when the squawk box kicks into action, Sam's collecting glasses by the door so she opens to see who it is (impossible to hear with this racket going on) as always Jack is alert to who it is....Oh My god it's Penny Lee what the hell is she doing here, I hope she's not going to cause a scene as I may just have to gag her. Jack looks over at me to allay my fears and handles the situation brilliantly! As coming in behind Pen is a tall lanky guy who can only be Bertram.

'Hi Pen how you doing babe fancy a drink?' Jack shouts over to her.

As there's no reply and she's busily scanning the bar to take in what's going on, Jack pours a glass of wine and offers it to her. Then with a Sambuca in his hand he shouts to Bertram (I assume that's who it is)....

'Here you are mate get that down you, straight down the hatch mind.'

What transformed in the next few minutes was rather like a slow motion movie clip, Bertram has downed the drink followed very quickly by a second (Jack knows what he's doing) within seconds Bert's punching the air to the music, some of the young girls come and join him and his gyrating like a pro! Penny Lee is gobsmacked and looking daggers at me, I'm far to busy to stop and talk thank goodness!

'What's his name girl?' Jack whispers in my ear.

'Bertram I think Jack.'

He's obviously not used to booze as two large Sambucas have gone straight to his head and he's now singing on the Mic along with the girls to ' I'm to sexy for my shirt.' Not sure he's a dancer either but he's giving it large!

'Go for it Bertie you fit in 'ere a treat!' Jack shouts.

I'm waiting for Penny Lee to spontaneously combust at any moment now! Jacks plying Bertie with more Sambuca and he's loving it...bouncing around like a frog on acid, and without his shirt! I actually feel a little bit sorry for Pen as she's always in control and certainly never lost for words, Sam's giggling, and Bertie has an audience. Maybe it'll teach her a lesson, although I know I'm going to suffer with the ear bashing from hell!

Penny at last picks her wine glass up she's so out of her comfort zone, can't help wondering why they came in anyway, I'm sure I'll find out before too long. Think I may need a glass of wine before that time comes around, actually both me and Sam haven't had time for a drink, we've been serving flat out. Bertie's having the time of his life and the girls have had him singing again the latest being 'your sex is on fire' I have a sneaky feeling the guy is going to suffer in the morning, with a hangover...... and Penny!

Midnight and Chris is packing up the karaoke gear and the youngsters are on the move, Jack has his usual entourage plus a few of his 'groupies' that hang around, they sometimes stay all night, I like to think of them as Jack's henchmen as most of them have the IQ of a kipper but they support Jack whatever! Me and Sam clear up as much as possible then we can have a drink, Sam has a taxi home and then I'll go up to bed, Jack sorts his own drinks and recreational stuff out through the night, that's the part I want nothing to do with. Bertie's looking a tad worse for wear and struggling to button his shirt up, maybe time I intervened and gave him a hand as Pen certainly has no intentions.

'Hi Honey how you doing then seems you've had fun?' I enquire.

'Yes very good are you Penny Lee's mother?'

'Yeah that's me love.' I attempt to shake his hand with little success.

'Do you think I could have a glass of water please?'

'No probs love I'll get you one.'

Gosh he is a bit posh poor little sod he's really been thrown in at the deep end here and Penny is staring but not attempting to come over.....yet!

'There you go love that'll help, are you not used to drinking?'

'Not really, my stomach feels a bit wobbly.'

'Why don't you go down to the gents love in case you're sick?'

With that Bertie makes a bee line for the Loos, I have a feeling we won't be seeing him for a while...Oops and here comes trouble..... Sam must have foreseen this and hands me a large glass of wine.

'I don't know where to start with you Mother.' Penny fires at me.

'Don't know what you mean love I didn't know you were coming.'

'What on earth have you done to your hair and what exactly are you wearing?'

'I think you'll find Pen that I'm the parent here and I wear what I choose and also wear my hair the same way, so what's your problem.'

'You've managed to get my boyfriend drunk and allowed him to make a complete idiot of himself, his father will be furious!'

'Now you stop right there young lady, you didn't have to come here tonight, and as far as I can see Bertie had a great time, maybe you should re think your attitude, and as I've been working a long time today I just want to relax with a glass of wine before I turn in!'

'How many times his names Bertram! I only called in to see if you'd come to your senses and was going to move out of this disgusting place! It was like walking into a live Muppet show how could you?'

'Stop being so disrespectful, Jack's always treated you well just because it's not your cup of tea it is mine.....enough said so lets put an end to it! So why don't you go and sit down and wait for Bertie, while I get on with my clearing up.'

I had to walk away as I could actually feel myself loosing it, she would try the patience of a saint that girl, coming in here on a Friday night, whatever made her think of that. Poor old Bertie was making his way back from the gents, he's looking a bit green around the gills, hope the lad goes straight to bed so he doesn't get an ear bashing tonight.

'How are you feeling love?' I ask as he makes his way over to Penny Lee.

'Not so good I think I might be in trouble.'

'Don't worry you enjoyed yourself good to let your hair down once in a while, come in and see me again eh?'

'Yes thank you I will.'

I gave him a kiss on the cheek don't fancy his chances tonight. Penny Lee virtually pushed him out the door without a word to any of us.....

Jack booked Sam a taxi so while we waited we chatted about the night; of course there was only one topic.

'That guys hilarious Rosie had you met him before, didn't seem like Pens type?'

'No poor bugger probably the first time he's ever had fun, think his parents are strict, as for Pen she really needs to sort herself out she's becoming a terrible control freak, he was funny though!'

'You're talking about Bertie?'

'Yeah thanks for that Jack, if you hadn't stepped in she would have caused a scene.'

'What's her real problem babe?' Jack adds.

'I'm just not mumsy enough she wants someone like Dot out of East Enders if you ask me, so I'll never fit that bill.'

'Don't understand her she should be so lucky to have a mum like you.' Sam assures.

'Oh well guess it takes all kinds, there's your cab Sam, what time you in tomorrow Hun?'

'I'll text you in the morning when I'm up then I'll come and help you paint.'

'Great love thank you.'

'Cheers Rosie, night Jack.'

'Night girl.'

I give Sam a hug as she leaves, if only Pen were more like her, would make my life so much easier.

'Do you need me any more tonight Jack?'

'No thanks Clipper, want a glass to take up with you?'

'No thanks Jack think I'll hit the sack, night all.'

I get a chorus of 'see you girl' from his crowd and I make my way up the stairs, tonight has certainly been an eye opener, but I enjoyed it.......

Chapter 5

Sam was round at mid day so we decided to have pizza and mushy peas before we started painting, it should only need one coat as it's been painted white previously so this is just to brighten it up. I put the rail up this morning so I now have my clothes on hangers aren't I the lucky one. There was no sign of Jack when I let Sam in, he could be anywhere, the bars a bit of a mess but we'll tackle that before we open. I ordered the pizza as a take away so best wait in the bar until it arrives.

'Have you heard from Pen, Rosie?' Sam inquires.

'No Hun very quiet, she'll probably wait and call in through the week.'

No one could possibly know how much I wish I had a close relationship with my daughter, be able to give her hugs and go shopping together and all the things mums and daughters do. But Penny Lee is building a wall between us and how ever hard I try I don't seem to be able to knock it down, she wants to change me, however I believe if you love someone you love them as they are and unconditionally.

'Pizza's here Rosie, where we eating?'

'Oh lets sit in the kitchen babe, better than the grotty bar.'

'I've got a mystery shopping evening in the week, fancy joining me, free meal?'

'Why not, do you know which pubs yet?' Sam asks.

'There's three Hun do you reckon we can do all of them in a night, two in Kensington area and one at Victoria?'

'Piece a cake Rosie, by the way there's a couple of fit guys come in the pub tonight, ones called Carl he's yummy, haven't managed to suss the other one yet.'

'About time you got that love life of yours, off the ground, you get enough offers; point this guy out to me tonight.'

'What about you though Rosie, seen anyone you fancy?'

'My so called love life has been a catalogue of disasters so no babe, I'm finished with guys.'

'You won't stay on your own Rosie; you'll get loads of attention.'

'I've made too many bad choices Sam, so think I'll be better off alone.'

'Anyway Hun how's your Nan? Shall I call round for you when we do the mystery shopping, then I can have a chat with Ann.'

'Yeah, great idea she'll like that she's always asking after you.'

'Sorted, now lets get this painting started, which wall d'you fancy?'

We spent the next three hours painting and it certainly brightened the room up, we're both running the bar tonight, so time for a shower and Sam's bought her gear to change into, so by six o'clock we're ready to go, so we head down to the bar. Wow surprise Jack's beaten us to it.

'What you two bitches been up to (it's OK that's an endearment coming from Jack)?'

'We've just finished painting my room, looking good.'

'Bet the walls are covered in naked guys, you pair of trollops!'

'No, but she's working on it Jack.' Sam adds.

'Good night last night?' I enquire.

'Mm might have been.' He taps his nose.

That means he got lucky, what is he like, the local babe magnet scores again, I wonder if he carves notches on his bedpost? Doubtful, it would have collapsed by now!

'What d'you need from the offie Jack?' Sam asks.

'Think you both better go girls we need cola and lemonade as well, check the top shelf and I'll get the cash.'

You've guessed the Kasbah does not have the luxury of soft drinks on tap! Think a visit to cash and carry is required.

'Any chance you can both work next Sunday lunch? I'm gonna do the ol' man's eightieth party and his sister's coming down to stay so he tells me, that's gonna fuck my weekend up!'

'Sorry Jack I've promised to take Nan down to Kent to see Mum and Dad, don't like to let her down she'll be disappointed.' Sam declares.

'I'm OK Jack we'll manage; you'll just have to have an early night Saturday.'

'Yeah right I will, you aint met Aunt Lil yet.'

'I can't wait.'

'Be like the flaming Mad Hatters Tea Party!' Jack laughs.

Still no word from Penny Lee, can't help thinking about her, still tonight should be busy so that'll take my mind off things.

'Point Carl out honey when he comes in can't wait to give him the once over.' I remind Sam.

'You'll know I'll probably start acting like a Ming Mong, you know me, and probably best I don't have a drink, 'cos if I do I won't stop talking!'

'You do surprise me!' We both laugh, as Sam's renowned for her chatter when she's had a couple, wines in wits out, all good fun though.

Bar starts filling up and there are a few different faces tonight, Jack's not working he's sitting with a few of his cronies and there's a brunette who seems to be paying him a lot of attention (don't get excited lady he only does one night stands).

'Is she a regular Sam, the one draping herself around Jack.' I ask.

'No another flash in the pan, don't think anyone will get him down the isle again.'

'Yeah right he could still be married.' I suggest as we both laugh.

'Rosie look he's just come in.'

'Which one babe they all look pretty fit?'

'The tallest one with the fair hair, he's so fit Rosie.'

'Oh My God he looks like a younger version of Freddie Flintoff, go for it Sam he's hot.'

If Penny Lee had heard me say that she'd say I was a very bad influence. Now I don't think so just giving her a bit of encouragement, and why not. She's doing OK on her own from what I can see, there standing at the bar chatting, he's with a few mates so there probably going to one of the clubs later. I daresay Jack knows all about him, not much passes him by and if he thought he was a bit dicey he'd put her straight.

'Jack we're out of Stella.' I shout.

'OK I'm on it; let me borrow your mobile girlfriend.'

'You lost yours again Jack, or did it land up in your lager?'

'Lager last night 'bout time they made 'em waterproof!'

While Jacks ringing for a barrel of Stella, I'll attempt to explain, when he's had a few (quote a good few) Sambucas he 'performs' a bit and on too many occasions his mobile ends up in someone's pint! Another one of his expensive hobbies!

The squawk box blasts and Sam gets it, the guy wants to come in with cockles and whelks, Jack gives her the nod, he does well in here they seem to love 'em... to me it would feel like 'chewing a bogey' yuk! No thanks.

Jacks on the Sambuca, he throws it into his mouth, head back, no doesn't swallow until he lights it, one of his party pieces, he's got it off to a fine art, now I quiet like the taste of the stuff but sod setting it alight!

'There going to that 511 club in Chelsea tonight Rosie and he's only asked me what I'm doing, shit, what do I do now?'

'Well Hun if you fancy him go for it, have a quick word in Jacks shell like first, he'll know if he's kosher.'

'Yeah good idea, you have a chat with them, see what you think Rosie you're a good judge of character.'

Bless, she's right I am a good judge of character for others, pity I'm no good for myself...but that's all changed now and I'm enjoying this....so far so good. I make my way over near the guys and start hand washing the glasses.

'Can I get five bottles of Becks please babe?' requests one of Carl's mates.

'Sure Hun, anything else?'

'No that's it for now thanks.'

'You guys all local?'

'Most of us live in Carnival, except Carl he lives in Denbigh.'

'Didn't see you in last night for the karaoke, not your scene?'

'We do come in some weeks but last night we were on me brothers stag night, so we went up Leicester square.'

'Good night?' I enquire.

'Ok, but bit pricey for us lot.'

'I guess it is, what do you all do for work then lads?'

'Scaffolding gang, except Carl he's a plumber.'

'By the way I'm Rosie, and you are?'

'I'm Toby, that's John, Carl, Pete and Harry.'

'Well good to meet you all guys, you'll see me around more now.'

I go back to the till to have a word with Sam

'They seem a good bunch Sam and hey Carls a plumber, what did Jack say.'

'Same as you Rosie, he says there OK and often hang out in here.'

'Well there you go babe, looks like you could be going clubbing!'

Chapter 6

Last night went smoothly and Sam left with Carl and his friends (after Jack had a word in his shell like) it's great that he's so protective of us both, she sent me a text this morning to say she'd had a great time and would fill me in with all the gossip at work on Monday. As I've promised to cook dinner for me and Jack today I've decided to go to Sainsbury's for a decent size shop, I'm thinking roast lamb and mint sauce sounds tempting, roast potatoes and veggies and maybe Yorkshire puddings to. Then this afternoon I can scan my next week's emails, work issues are never far away.

Jack enjoyed his roast dinner, must admit so did I, the pub was not that busy, anyway I made myself scarce as I've decided to have a go at the 'books' this afternoon I haven't had chance before, one things for certain the powers who be will eventually catch up with Jack, although I know he's hoping he can get another couple of years out of the place, even though it's all dicey, chancy call it what you will, there will come a day when it'll end......let's face it nothing lasts forever. I start by opening all the letters and putting them in some kind of order of priority, next thing is to collate all the receipts and clip them together, I must remember to pick up a book while I'm near the shops, it will never be right but at least I can make an attempt to keep them more in order now, obviously that depends on how much information Jack is willing to supply, that I'm thinking will be the stumbling block. Does he actually count the takings, there's no till roll, receipts are minimal, he deals only in cash, he doesn't possess a bank account or credit card (that's probably a blessing in disguise) although I doubt there's a bank in the land that would issue him one. How much does brother Bill know, maybe one day I'll find out, I'll have to ask if they are coming to Tom's party next week, I have met Bill and Lena a couple of times in the past, although this will be in slightly different circumstances. My mobile signals a call and its Penny Lee asking if I would like to meet Bertram's parents, so long as I don't wear the ridiculous gaudy skinny jeans I was wearing last night and will I dress properly; she's going to text me the address, I asked why she'd had a change of heart, she said she hadn't but Bertram appears to have taken to me.

Well shit aren't I the lucky one Bertie likes me and I must wear me Alan Whickers! Ha-ha, no I didn't say that bit to her; it's just my warped sense of humour...building bridges and all that! I'm supposed to be going at 9'oclock after the evening service? Bit late I'm thinking maybe they go to church?

So I set out to make sure I get there on time, it's a local enough address right next to the Methodist church...here goes....in for a 'penny' and all that! By the way I'm wearing a trouser suit and feeling blooming uncomfortable, the things I do for a peaceful life.

'Hello Penny, am I too early?'

'No mother Bertram's father will be here any minute, come in.'

'Where is he then love?'

'He's just finished the evening service; he is The Reverend of the Church.'

'Shit you could have warned me Pen, what do I call him, do I have to curtsey or something?'

'Don't be ridiculous Mother his name is Percival, just mind your language!'

'Look Pen I am who I am...Oh hello Bertie how are you?'

'Hello Mrs Budd I'm fine thank you, can I take your jacket?'

'No I think I'll keep it on love thanks, but please call me Rosie.'

'Let's go through and meet my parents.'

Shit I am so not looking forward to this I know me I'll get a fit of hysterical giggles, he's Bertram the ol' mans Percival what the hells mummy's name?'

'Come in Rosie and meet my parents, Mother Father this is Penny Lees Mother Rosie Budd.'

'Pleased to meet you I'm sure.' I extend my hand to him then her.

'Please sit down Mrs Budd would you care for a glass of sherry?'

'That would be nice, please call me Rosie.'

Pen's got her steely blues fixed on me and I couldn't feel more uncomfortable if I tried, I still don't know their fucking names, or even the surname....just sit quiet Rosie.

'So Mrs Bu....er Rosie what do you do for employment?'

'I write a column in a ladies magazine, I suppose you'd call me an Agony Aunt.'

'That must be interesting Dear, Mother chimes in.'

'Yes I've been working there for many years now and I do enjoy it, and yourself?'

'Oh I don't work dear there's plenty for me to do in the vicarage and of course looking after Bertram.'

Bertie hands me a glass of sherry, why the hell won't someone tell me their names, as I can see this becoming very embarrassing.

'Thanks Bertie and what do you do love?' I ask.

I now have three pairs of eyes fixed on me Oops maybe it's the Bertie bit, shit I can't do this I need to put them straight. We sure as hell aint singing from the same hymn sheet here! So here goes!

'I'm sorry I really don't mean to offend but I have a habit of shortening names, by the way I don't know either of yours.'

'Fathers name is Percival and Mothers is Florence and by the way I don't mind at all that you call me Bertie it's endearing and rather splendid, thank you Rosie. You enquired about my work I'm a graphic designer I'm sure you come across many in your line of work.'

More looks being exchanged, Pen aint helping a bit, she hasn't once opened her mouth...I'm pretty sure I know why, she doesn't want them to observe the way she usually speaks to me.

'As I'm sure your aware Mrs...Er...Rosie our son has asked your daughter to become his wife, so naturally we are interested in her background.' Percival declares.

Now it's my turn to be speechless, they'll be telling me next she's up the duff! Prepare your self for anything girl and please shut your gob!

'We had the pleasure of meeting Penny Lee's father during the week he was extremely affable and supportive.' Percival adds.

I bet he was the pretentious bastard! Smile Rosie Smile I urge myself.

'I believe you and Mr Ryder are unfortunately divorced would it therefore be problematic for the two of you to spend the matrimonial ceremony together?'

Unfortunately divorced there's nothing unfortunate about it darling! Now I realise I should have come tonight in me bright pink skinny jeans and my dictionary of slang stuffed in me handbag! Is this when I announce that I live in a room in a mate's skanky pub and I'm hot footing behind Joan Collins in the wedding stakes! Now can you see Oh daughter of mine that you have to take me as I am! As this is the time when your Mothers lurid past is about to jump up and bite you on the bum!

'Well actually I haven't spoken to Penny Lee's father for a number of years; we have been divorced for over sixteen, so yes it could be a problem.' I add.

'Surely this doesn't need to be an issue on such an important day in your daughter's life.' Florence asks.

'Well I don't think it's just down to me, I believe Nick...Mr Ryder has remarried so I'm sure he would want his wife by his side, as for me I'm a great believer of living life as it is and not giving false representations.'

'Are you married again yourself may I ask?' Percival enquires.

Here goes, time I set this lot straight, sorry Pen but there going to find out anyway, as I glance towards her I'm sure I detect smoke billowing from her ears. Best told from the horse's mouth so to speak!

'In answer to your question Percy, no I'm not married now, however during the sixteen years since Mr Ryder and I were divorced I have been married on two other occasions, which have both ended in divorce, so in true honesty when my daughter marries I would prefer to attend alone, I do realise this is not what you anticipated.'

Silence all around, is this the best time for me to leave?

'Well this certainly puts another light on the situation.' Percy declares.

'May I just add here in my daughters defence, she takes after her father if this is any consolation to you, me I've just made bad choices...it happens, and further more in my defence it doesn't make me a bad person, I've been honest with you and with me 'what you see is what you get, perhaps it would be better if I left now to give you time to ponder.'

'No Rosie please stay, it will be fine, I'm sure.' Bertie adds hesitantly.

Who's he trying to kid bless, he's such a lovely guy, but with parents who's morals come out of the ark, so last century he's no chance! The house its self is like being in a time warp, leave now Rosie 'cos they don't have a clue what to say next!

'It was nice to meet you both, I'll speak to you soon Pen, would you be kind enough to see me out Bertie?'

'Yes of course.'

With that I hot foot it to the door behind dear Bertie.

'I won't apologise for who I am Bertie, your welcome to come and see me anytime you like.'

With that I give him a hug, a rather awkward one, not to sure he's used to this, and I kiss him on the cheek.....I think he looks sad.....poor Bertie!

'Goodbye Rosie.'

Hope Jacks still about 'cos I need a drink after that!

I burst into the Kasbah so pleased to see Jack is still around.

'What's up Clipper someone chasing you?'

'You have no idea what I've just endured Jack, you got time to have your ear bashed?'

'Drink....wine?'

'Yes large one please.'

'So come on lets have it!'

'Pen rang me earlier and asked me to go and meet Bertie's parents, it was like going back to Dickens days, a total time warp, for a start he's Percival and she's Florence and he's the vicar at the Methodist in Turnpike Street, Bertie by all accounts has proposed to Pen, they've met her Dad and to quote Percy's phrase 'he was most affable,' the sanctimonious bastard! Wait for it! He only wants me to go to the wedding with him.....by this time Jack my halo has slipped down to my knees and I just let 'em have it...the marriages and all that stuff, well lets face it there gonna find out one day!'

'Take a breath girlfriend and drink!'

'I had to go, they were all sitting there gobsmacked and if looks could kill and all that from Pen, so I thought scarper!'

'So what the hell's Penny been telling them?'

'No idea, maybe she thought I'd prevaricate.'

'Speak English girl, you mean she thought you'd lie.'

'You've got it Jack, no point it's sure to come out, so better now, the one I felt sorry for was Bertie, he's great I like that guy, does he deserve Pen, no way, she needs someone who can stand up to her, love her as I do she's a total control freak!'

'So what happens now babe?'

'I'm expecting the biggest ear bashing yet from Pen, should be used to it by now, anyway Jack how's your day been?'

'Run of the mill girl, by the way any of that lamb left?'

'Why d'you fancy a sarnie?'

'I thought you'd never ask.'

Chapter 7

After a restless night I make my way to the office, start of a fresh week, can't change what's happened time to face the here and now, and that means a new column to produce!

'Hi Rosie been looking out for you lots to tell.' Sam's grinning like the proverbial cat that's had the cream!

'C'mon then spill honey before you bust a gut!' I laugh.

We make our way into my office at least the Jacobs dragon hasn't arrived yet to time check us.

'He is so cool Rosie, we had a cab to the club, then his mates sort of went off (on the pull) no doubt, he got us drinks and we sat and chatted for a while, not that you could hear much, then we had a boogie...music slowed down.....it was great, we stayed until about two, then he walked me home. A yummy pash goodnight but he didn't try it on, met him yesterday afternoon a we walked along the embankment and through Battersea Park then went for a coffee, we've exchanged numbers and we're going out one night in the week, he is so cool'.....

'I'm so pleased for you babe he seemed like a really nice guy, good luck to you, remember my old saying 'softly softly catchy monkey' and all that!'

'I love your sayings, your right though, by the way can we do the mystery meals tomorrow as I'd rather see Carl Wednesday sort of break the week up.'

'Of course, anyway I must put you in the picture with what happened last night, tell me what you think of this!'

After relaying my visit to Percy Flo and Bertie, Sam was in hysterics, she couldn't believe that Pen let me walk into that lot totally unprepared, Diane Jacobs was hovering outside my office so Sam made a quick escape to the main office, what is this woman's problem?

When I got back to the pub after work I cooked pasta for my tea and then had a chill out evening, doing my nails washing, ironing and all those little mundane jobs, that have to be done, Jack had given me a TV so I decided to watch a movie, sprawled out on the bed lovely and comfy with piles of cushions and pillows this is the life....and then my mobile burst into action...Penny Lee, well it was going to happen!

'You know you've totally ruined my life!' She screamed. 'How could you say all those things, you made yourself look such a loose woman I couldn't believe what I was hearing, when Dad came he was so agreeable, why do you always act like this.....

'Hey stop right there, for a start young lady you did not tell me about Berties family, or that he's proposed, or that his Dad was a vica,r or that they lived in the dark ages...and all I said was the truth I wasn't going to lie for you or anyone!'

'You didn't have to say how many marriages you'd had, and as for calling him Percy....you make my blood run cold...well I'd rather you didn't come to my wedding, so there!'

'Your choice Penny but remember one thing I'm the only mother you'll ever have, like I keep telling you take me for who I am, your fault most of last night as you didn't tell me anything about them, or the proposal, so if you've finished insulting me for tonight I'll say goodbye.'

With that I ended the call, we are never going to sing from the same hymn sheet I can see that, I'm not going to lie, it hurts like hell but I can see exactly what she's trying to do, control my life in so much as what I do what I say and where I live, it's not going to happen. Why hadn't she prepared me for last night? That's what hurt the most, she'd told her Father, so why not me it's almost as though she wants these things to happen....looks like now I may miss my daughters wedding...I could so do without this, I know I'm tough on the outside...though I'm really a soft centre....I can feel the tears stinging my eyes, even if I apologise for telling the truth it won't make any difference I'll never be the Mother she wants.....I switch the TV off and allow the tears to flow...no one will ever know......

~

'How does Chinese grab you Rosie?'

'Yeah sounds good to me which one?' I ask'

'China Town Leicester Square?'

'Fab, what time?'

'Is one o'clock Ok?' Harry asks.

'Great.'

I like going to the Square to eat it's a busy bubbly place and I get to do one of my favourite hobbies, people watching, one of Sam's favourite pastimes to. I've decided to put Harry in the picture of where I'm staying, he's been a good friend for years, I have the feeling that Diane Jacobs is on my case for reasons best known to her. Now I truly have enough problems with my own offspring to want any further issues with a deluded female of a certain age!

'Any preference for wine Rosie?' Harry asks as we scan the menu.

'Surprise me; they have a few set menus for two what do you fancy?'

'You pick I'm sure there all good.' Harry assures.

While we're enjoying our meal I explain to Harry where I'm living, the plan I have and touch on the problems with Penny Lee, he's such an understanding guy and I trust him, so I'd far rather he'd heard it from me. Harry knows a little about Jack and the Kasbah but he doesn't point fingers, he also knows my head is screwed on the right way, well most of the time anyway. Meal over we head back to the office, who greets him as soon as we enter, the one and only, wish I knew what she was trying to achieve.

As I leave the office I call out to Sam that I'll meet her at six O'clock, home for a shower and change for me first.

'Where shall we start Sam Kensington or Victoria?' I ask

'Lets do Kensington first, I'm starving.' Sam replies.

'That's good news I'm not that hungry. I went to lunch with Harry, we had Chinese and desert!'

'Get you! I've had a few texts from Carl, liking the eager bit, he's calling for me on Wednesday asked if I fancy a movie, so I agreed! Fancy him more but I didn't say it.' More giggles.

'What are you like? This menu looks good what d'you fancy?' I ask.

We only have one meal in each pub and I have to take note of cleanliness, staff, and attitude towards customers, note who the licence holders are and give a short summary. We share the meals always grab a couple of forks and attack from both sides of the plate, we always end up laughing, good job the staff aren't aware what we're doing.

'Shall we go for the chilli to start?' Sam suggests.

'Whatever you like love you're the one who's starving.'

So already tucking into a roll and butter while we wait for the chilli, Sam receives yet another text from Carl, think these two have really got the hots for each other!

'Mm that looks good dig in Hun, what do you want to drink, I've already had half a bottle of wine at lunch with Harry, so think I'll have a lemonade?'

'A spritzer please Rosie, this is yummy?'

'You keep eating while I get the drinks, I'll eat at the next one.'

When I order the drinks I check the place out, need to make a quick visit to the loo to make sure that's all clean and well supplied with paper. When I get back to the table Sam's demolished the chilli and has a big grin on her chops!

'Ready for the next one love, just need to clock the Licensee's names as we leave, will you write them down Sam, your writings much neater than mine?'

The next pub is only a couple of streets away so maybe the short walk will give us an appetite for our next munch, to be honest I'm not in the least bit hungry, I'm relying on Sam....again!

'What delights are we going to order here then honey, you choose again?'

'Lets have the roast I don't fancy anymore spicy stuff and you love a roast Rosie don't you?'

'Mm on a Sunday.' I laugh.

I did manage a tiny Yorkshire pudding and Sam is now struggling bless, we are now pushing veggies around the plate, then I decided to screw my napkin up and cover some of it up, I know what your thinking how wasteful when there are starving people out there, next time we'll have to do one pub at a time....poor excuse I know. Our next stop is Victoria so it's a bus ride and a walk....That's not going to make much difference I'm sure.

The pub at Victoria is huge and on two levels, simple order cod, chips and peas.

'If I eat one more chip Rosie I swear I'll explode!' Sam declares.

'A doggy bag... perhaps?'

'No! That's so embarrassing, if you ask I'm going to the loo.'

Bless, Sam hates things like that it's rather like shopping, if we go in a cheap High Street store I have to carry the bags (don't tell everyone but we're talking Primark here), why did they ever bring out designer?

'Lets have another drink then and maybe you'll fancy a cold chip later.'

We laugh a lot, we always do, but she's done her best to polish off three meals in the last hour and thirty, I'd say that's not bad going, I'll have her in the Guinness book of Records before long!

'Fancy a walk back to the Kasbah for one, or have you had enough?'

'On one condition Rosie Budd, so long as you don't buy me crisps.' She laughs.

'Come on then lets round the night off with a bit of Jack's humour!'

As I let us into the pub it sounds quiet.... no loud thumping music, Jack's on his own reading the Standard, and he looks pretty sober...different.

'What you two bitches up to, no good I bet....fancy a drink?'

'Thought you'd never ask small wine for me Jack.' I offer.

'Small we don't do small girlfriend, you're in the Kasbah now!'

'Honest Jack a small one, Rosie's just made me eat three dinners and I'm stuffed.'

As Jack's pouring our wine his 'yet another new mobile kicks in.'

'Hi who is this speak up?'

'Yes of course I can hear you now Aunt Lil, yes keep the phone up the right way, what? You are 'aving a laugh Lil this is the Kasbah not the fucking Ritz! Double glazing you must be joking the top two floors aint got single and half the roofs missing...No Lilly you don't need central heating it's the middle of summer, two nights! I thought you were only staying one.....you know you can't stay at the ol' man's, Bill and Lena are there...I've only got a single bed up for grabs 'ere....No! There aint a daily here we all 'elp ourselves....right yeah bye bye!

'Did you get the fuckin gist of that? Jack implores. 'Double glazing and central 'eating what planets she on....silly ol' bat!'

The three of us are laughing like drains, this weekend is gonna be fun!

'You wait 'til you meet Aunt Lil girlfriends, there's only one thing for it she'll have to 'ave the Bertie treatment, few Sambucas down her neck!'

'I'm out of here see you tomorrow Rosie, and you Friday Jack, I'll see if Nan's got any pills for over eating.' Sam laughs.

'I'm going up too Jack see you tomorrow.'

'Me to babe I'm gonna hit the sack.'

'Wow easy tiger that's a first!' more laughter as the Kasbah shuts for the night.

Chapter 8

I think it's time I explained about Jack's language, believe me I'm really toning it down, as most sentences include the 'f' word, as I've mentioned previously I let this go over my head, it's all caused by lack of vocabulary....it fills the gaps when they can't think of another word. My last dreaded wedded was the same; he found it impossible to string a sentence together without at least one 'f' word and the old filler of 'you know what I mean'.....do we know what they mean or do we just go along with it.....in my case I now believe I married beneath me...no I'm no snob but this guy turned out to be the pits, I ended up penniless and homeless because the lazy sod thought he was on a winner with a soft cow like me...and lets face it he was.... he was married to a woman with a good job who paid the bills put food in the cupboard and supplied him with grog for four years! All without working...what did I ever see in him...Oh! He made me laugh in the beginning, don't fall for that one girls...like the honeymoon period it doesn't last! This type of guy they're clever, not educated, however it's an easy ride on the Gravy Train and being a proverbial sleazebag! The difference with Jack is he works and that's why he gets my respect! Time I stopped musing and went to sleep it'll all still be here in the morning.

The office is buzzing when I arrive and being Wednesday I need to prepare for my deadline tomorrow, as I head into my office I notice Diane Jacobs is in Harry's office, guess he's getting the lowdown on someone.

'Morning Rosie there's some paperwork for you to look through, phew, last night I had to take rennies I thought I was going to burst, made Nan laugh though especially when I told her about Jack and his Aunt Lil, what is he like sounds as though she's gonna be a nightmare, don't fancy your chances she'll probably think you're the maid!' Sam laughs.

'I daresay I'll end up taking her tea a biscuits in bed, she's not on my floor though she's on Jack's.....she could have a few surprises in store if she gets up in the night, never know who she'll bump into with her nephew being a 'babe magnet' and all that!

We laugh again.

'Rosie can you spare me a minute?' Harry asks from the doorway.

'Yeah I'll be right there Harry, see you later Sam.'

'Diane's been in dishing the dirt, I didn't let on that I knew all about it, for now anyway, seems her sister goes to the Methodist Church in Turnpike and is friendly with the ministers wife Florence, she couldn't wait to give me the low down on your visit there on Sunday evening and how you bragged that you'd been married three times and you were living in a shameful pub as a lodger. The reason I'm telling you is she's a gossip so be prepared for some backlash, I'm glad you'd already told me, did you envisage this may happen?'

'Exactly, she's been trying to get something on me for ages, thanks for preparing me Harry, I'll make sure Sam's aware as she's the only other person who knows.'

'At the end of the day Rosie it's down to you where you live, but she's spiteful, at least you know now where she's getting her information, perhaps a good idea to tell Penny Lee or she'll be airing all you're washing!'

'Cheers Harry I'll try to nip it in the bud''

As I leave Harrys office my first stop is to enlighten Sam, so she knows the latest that the Jacob (would be diva's) been up to, well who'd have thought that ol' Flo was a gossip, Mrs Holier than though who still lives in the dark ages is actually no better than a fish wife! I wonder if the Rev alias ol' Percy is aware, tonight I'll have to ring Pen and put her in the picture, hopefully she'll have come down of her high horse by now! Meanwhile I can see I'll get some strange looks and the odd whispers, most of the staff know me well enough anyway, so like a copy of The Sun, it'll be chip paper tomorrow! There has to be a way of getting even....what goes around comes around and all that!

On my way home I stop off and buy a couple of posters for my room, both fit sportsmen, well a girl needs some thing to dream about and wet the appetite even though I've thrown in the towel.......lets face it I'm still curious about this 'earth moving' theory....think I've only reached number one on the Richter scale up until now and I can assure you that wasn't in marriage, but a few dalliances I had when I was on my own with Pen...the first marriage lasted ten years then I spent four just me and Pen, that's before my parents retired to Spain so they helped with the baby sitting stuff. Then second marriage lasted six years, by which time Pen was twenty and lived with her Dad for a while as it was near her work, I had two years of freedom on my own before making possibly one of the biggest mistakes of my life to get hitched for a third time, which as you now know has proved to be a huge downfall in my life! Oh well we live and learn so hence the Taboo!

Hope Sam has a great time tonight with Carl; be so good to see her in a happy relationship, it does happen, just not to me. Best ring Pen before it's too late and see how she responds.

After half an hour of attempting to explain what's happening with the Jacobs woman and the gossip she's gleaned from Flo, I actually believe she is listening to me at last, for her own sake I feel she should air on the side of caution as to what she tells this blabbermouth! She's promised to speak to Bertie to see his response and is going to ring me tomorrow evening if she knows any more. Guess that's a bonus, at least she didn't bawl me out this time.

Time for bed and a Will Smith DVD how much better does it get!

Chapter 9

Just as I'm leaving the pub Jack shouts out to me, he's sitting at the bar with a couple of his cronies.

'What's up Jack?'

'Some guy came in the bar last night asking for you, never seen him before girl, so I said he may catch you Friday night, don't worry if he's a problem he'll be out on 'is ear.'

'What sort of age Jack, description?'

'Youngish thirty, tall dark.'

'And handsome?' I laugh.

'Get out a here!'

'By the way do you want me to get shopping for the party, if so I can do it tonight on my way home?'

'No your OK girlfriend I've got a couple of the ol' mans friends who are doing all the grub.'

'Cool, see you later Jack.'

'Wake me up when you get home girl.'

'I will do cheers.'

Now my minds working overtime wondering who the guy is that came in the pub last night looking for me, strange, especially as Jack didn't know him I can't wait to find out.

'Had a fab time last night Rosie, we went to the movies in Chelsea, then when he walked me home I asked him in to meet Nan, she thinks he's lovely, and guess what she thinks he's a dead ringer for Freddie Flintoff, younger though.' Sam says.

'That's brilliant Hun, what film did you see?'

'Not a blooming clue.' She laughs.

'Mm back row job.' I tap my nose.

'He's coming in on Friday night, how was your night?'

'Yeah I went to bed with Will Smith.' I laugh.

'Yeah, in your dreams Rosie.'

'Good movie though and I know the title.'

'Course you do, no one to pash!'

I bring Sam up to date with my bits of Goss and head to the office to sign off my page ready for print.

Back at the pub I give Jacks door a good thump to make sure he wakes.

'OK Clipper cheers.'

I make my way to the kitchen I've decided to make a shepherds pie, Jack probably hasn't eaten so I'll take some down to him later. While I'm cooking my mobile kicks in with a call from Penny Lee, seems she's spoken to Bertie and he knows Diane Jacobs sister, evidentially she's a spinster (does that surprise me) she takes flowers into the Church and is very friendly with Flo, seems they belong to the Women's Institute, I've suddenly got an image of Flo in Calendar girls ha-ha! Mm perhaps I should join, that'd put the cat amongst the pigeons! Bertie is going to speak to his mother, personally I don't hold out much hope of that making a difference as he seems a tad scared of her, I voiced as much to Pen, surprisingly she seems annoyed about the whole thing and for once not with me, they say it comes to those who wait! Trouble is she can't back track on things she's already told them, however she's said she won't tell her anything else, she also doesn't think Percy will know anything about it, I'd second those thoughts. She's assured me she'll let me know of anything else that she finds out....she really seems concerned.

Jack was pleased with his dinner and asked me if I'd throw some sheets on the little bed for Aunt Lil, when that's done I'm going to try and start this new book going for the pub, do some ironing and chill.

Friday morning and I'm not in the office today, so a trip to Sainsbury's is in order and Jack's asked me to go to Cash and Carry with him to stock up for the weekend, looks like a busy one, no karaoke tonight although Friday nights are always mega busy, can't wait to see if this strange guy shows up, I've racked my brain as to who it can be and drawn a blank.

Seven o'clock Friday night and the Kasbah is already alive and kicking, Sam's like a bottle of pop waiting for Carl to show and I'm just a tad perturbed as to who this mystery guy is. Music's booming and everyone's in the mood for the weekend, Wow and here is Carl and the boys, Sam's face is a picture absolute 'hotness hypnosis' flows between them....how cute is that! I remember it well to blooming well; I now find it best not to think too deeply, just live for the moment let's face it none of us know what's round the corner.

'Clubbing tonight babe?' I ask Sam.

'Not sure yet Rosie maybe he'll want tonight with the boys.'

'I doubt it the way he's steely blues are fixed on you Hun.'

It was around nine thirty and Jack had started throwing some moves so the bar was buzzing, I saw Sam go over to open the door, squawk box must have been in action, that girl's got incredibly astute hearing! Me I didn't hear a thing above the sounds of 'You got to move like Jagger,' (you know it....course you do)! As I go back to serve my next customer I notice a guy looking my way and he has the bluest eyes I've ever seen in my life....alluring captivating.....interesting!

'Excuse me, but are you Rosie Budd?'

'That depends whose asking.' I smile.

God! This guy is something else, is this the one who asked after me the other night.

'I'm Ollie Burns.' He proffers his hand.

As I shake his hand I'm still enthralled by his eyes, they are magnetic!

'Your wondering how I know of you, I wrote a letter into Rosie's Remedies the other week and you published a reply, maybe you recall I signed myself 'O'?'

'Yes of course I remember, I'd like to chat but we're so busy as you can see.'

'I'd really like to chat to you, does it quieten down later?' Ollie asks.

'Not until around eleven thirty, rather late I guess.'

'I'll have a lager now, and then go for a bite to eat; will it be OK if I call back?'

'No problem, is it Stella or Heineken?'

'Heineken thanks a pint; I look forward to chatting later then Rosie.'

'Likewise.' I add.

What the hell am I thinking? But I just have to speak to him I'm so curious, apart from the fact he's DDG (you know drop dead gorgeous)....don't forget Rosie Budd Taboo!

'Who is he Rosie, you dark horse you?' Sam laughs.

'Do you remember last week I published that letter from a guy who signed himself just 'O'? It's him, he wants to come back later and chat to me..... what to do... what to do?'

We both laugh as we get our change from the till. I glance over to where he's standing I can't help myself, he's about six foot tall, dark hair and those incredible blue eyes, he's also very stylishly dressed, he certainly doesn't hang out in Primark! He smiles as he catches my eye, that's not difficult as he's literally been in my sight since he came in, Rosie Budd behave!

'Carls just asked me if I want to go to the club, or would I rather we had a drink together here and then he'll walk me home.' Sam whispers.

'And you said?' I probe.

'Stay here, I'd rather have him all to myself.' She laughs. 'And Rosie Budd I can keep my eye on you.' We laugh again.

Jacks giving it large, that brunettes back in again, he never clings to any women in public, guess he doesn't want to screw up future chances, he truly is the oldest swinger in town!

'I look forward to seeing you later Rosie.' Ollie says.

'Sure just ask for me through the squawk box enjoy your meal.'

The smile he gives me truly does reach his eyes; I can't believe how much this guy is fascinating me after only just meeting him for the first time. I want to hear his response to the letter, more than that I want to know more about him and what would bring him to the Kasbah, plus how did he know where to find me?

I'm glad we were busy as it stopped me 'clock watching' if there's no karaoke on a Friday the kids seem to leave a bit earlier, so by twenty past eleven most of the youngsters had moved on to the clubs. Carl has managed to get a table in the corner ready for Sam to join him, young love eh!

'Jack I've asked that guy back for a drink, you OK with that?'

'What you asking me for girlfriend you live here don't you; you only ask me when you want help!' Jack gives me a gentle shove, one of his signs of affection.

'You girls go and have a drink now I can see to these dropouts!'

Sam lets Ollie in, I'm slipping again I didn't hear that box sound off, there's just a bunch of Jack's cronies in now and they'll probably be here for the night, or until their cash runs dry! Sam's happily ensconced at the table for two with Carl, so time to pour a couple of drinks and make my way round the bar for my chat with Ollie. Jack has turned the juke box down as the dancing's stopped and the serious drinking is in place, so at least we'll be able to hear!

'So Ollie Burns tell me all about your reason for seeking me out?' I offer.

'Rosie, I was so taken with the fact that you took the trouble to include my letter for publishing, when I'm sure you receive heaps of far more important issues.'

'I find almost every letter is important in its own way, therefore I attempt to vary my selections, plus with your letter I felt it would encourage other guys to face up to similar issues, or maybe far deeper problems.'

'To be very honest I wanted to meet you in the flesh, by the way the new hairstyle suite you.'

'Thank you, as I've just embarked on a new phase in my life I thought new start new style!'

'That sounds interesting I'm curious, any chance you'll enlighten me?'

'Why not, although this may surprise you because of the line of work I'm in, let me put it this way....I've just divorced for the final time, and that as they say is that!'

'There's so much I'd like to ask you however I'll settle for that tonight.' Ollie adds.

'So Ollie tell me how things are working out in your relationship, did you manage the meal and the confrontation?'

'In the end I didn't have to, she wrote me the proverbial Dear John, and while I was at work one day she had moved out locks stock and laptop!'

'Did she give you the reason? I always think it's infuriating if you're unsure where it all went wrong.' I ask.

'I'll be blunt as I think that's the only way, she's evidently 'batting for the other side' I believe that's the correct terminology.'

'Mm I did wonder, it seems to happen a lot now, how are you coping anyway?'

'Fine now I know where I stand, I was concerned at the time I wrote to you, about whether to go ahead with buying the flat, as I think I mentioned I'd put rather a lot of effort into the decor and spent a lot of cash.'

'So will you go ahead now with the purchase?' I enquire.

'Definitely it's close to my work, small but adequate.'

'I'm pleased you've made that decision, times a great healer as they say.'

'Oh! I'm good now honestly, can I get you a drink Rosie or is the bar closed now?'

'The Kasbah never closes until Jack calls time, he's an old friend of mine, in life we need our friends, as at this time in my life I needed to call in a favour....now what would you like to drink?'

'I'd like a Bacardi and coke if that's OK and whatever you want Rosie.' Ollie handed me a twenty pound note.

As I pass Sam and Carl they are in deep conversation, I've just remembered she's taking her Nan down to Kent on Sunday so she's going to miss Carl...or maybe he'll go along, who knows things move quickly!

As we're enjoying are drinks I find myself having extremely 'naughty' thoughts about this very desirable young man, what a good job he can't read my mind, I feel this tremendous connection with him... chemistry, bond even, he's much younger than me, so I'm having thoughts of what it would be like to become a 'cougar!' Please ignore me I'm getting carried away....starved of affection and all that....but I'm being honest I have never met a guy who has made me feel like this ever! I can't tell you how I feel they would have to X rate it...(I know you've guessed really) why, because it may well have happened to you, I promise I won't lean across and pash him, as it's just a tempting taboo!

'Penny for your thoughts Rosie you seem to be miles away, though you have an entrancing smile on your face?'

'Sorry I have a tendency to go into my little world of dreams at times, would you mind if I asked how old you are Ollie?'

'Not at all I'll be thirty two next birthday.'

'Young though mature great combination.' I laugh.

'Does age bother you Rosie?'

'No it's a number we're given, I believe as a race we all age at different rates if you understand my meaning?'

'That seems a good theory I'm sure you notice it more than most.'

'Mm you could be right.'

'Rosie would you mind if I called in to see you again, or do you think I'm crossing your professional line by asking.'

'Of course you can call in I've enjoyed our chat.'

'Well I'll say goodnight for now then.' With that Ollie kisses my cheek.....

I wave to Jack and Sam and literally float up to bed........

Chapter 10

A night full of beautiful forbidden dreams, restless and scintillating, I feel as though I'm on cloud nine please humour me I am aloud to dream I did say THAT wasn't taboo!

I best come back down to earth as Jack's Aunt Lil arrives today and I'm hoping Penny may have some more news for me, as an after thought it's a good job she didn't call in last night and see me chatting to Ollie, can you imagine the response! As I'm taking my shower I can hear my mobile has kicked into action, wrapping myself in a towel I hurry into the bedroom to see who was on the phone, Penny Lee no less so I dial her number.

'Pen sorry I missed your call I was in the shower.' I offer.

'I just wanted to let you know that when I was walking along Turnpike last night I noticed a girl disappearing into a house a few doors up from the Vicarage that I used to be at school with, I could hardly knock on the door, but if I see her again I'll try and get into a conversation she may know the sisters.'

'Oh well I guess its possible love any more from Bertie?'

'No, but his mother asked me last night what your ex husbands names were, I said I couldn't remember and I thought it was irrelevant she gave me a strange look.'

'Nosy ol' bat how dare she, does her husband say anything?'

'No he wasn't there and Bertram was in the kitchen, it's all becoming rather awkward not sure what to do next.'

'Only you can decide that love maybe stay away a bit.'

'What are you doing this weekend Mother?'

'Working tonight, Jacks Aunt is coming to stay as he's throwing a party tomorrow for his Dad's eightieth birthday, so pretty busy why do you ask?'

'Doesn't matter if I get any information I'll let you know bye for now.'

'Bye love.'

Now that's strange it's a long time since Pen has sounded like that and also not had a go at me, maybe this Flo is giving her second thoughts, I won't hold my breath though Pen's a very changeable girl. After breakfast I'll go down and give the bar a once over, if Jack was 'on it' all night I daresay there's glasses to wash, plus a squirt of polish wouldn't go amiss!

'Blooming heck Jack haven't you been to bed?'

'Nope Clipper had one of them nights and Aunt fucking Lils gonna be here shortly.'

'Right you go up for a kip, I'll clear up down here and see to Lil I'll tell her you got called out unexpectedly, now scarper I'll give her a snack and ply her with tea call you later.'

Cheers babe I owe you.'

I get stuck into the tidying up, Jacks even left the cash in the till which I hasten to add was open, what is he like, so I dig in the drawer of unmentionables and find a couple of cash bags leave a float in the till and put the rest in my pocket to give to Jack later....too many Sambucas last night I'm thinking. If I settle Lil into her room and sort out a snack she's sure to want to head round to Tom's for a chat, let's face it that's who she's come to see.....fingers crossed.

I took the mop and bucket down to the loos, not my job but whatever, made sure there was paper in all the cubicles. As I got back to the bar the dreaded squawk box screech into action!

'Jack Reed please.'

'Hello you must be Jack's Aunt Lil?'

'Who are you then, aint e' ere?'

'I'm Rosie, Jacks been called out for a while come in I'm sure you could do with a cuppa?'

'Cuppa! A Gin un Tonic after that journey.'

'So Gin and Tonic it is, let's take your case love.'

As I pour her drink I notice she's scrutinising the bar and her nose is twitching this is gonna be fun...I have a desire to giggle, she's areal old East Ender this one!

'Would you like a sandwich before you go and see Tom?' I enquire.

'Where am I sleepin first, hope there aint too many stairs bet he aint got a lift, this place is a bleedin shambles.'

'It's up two flights of stairs; I'll carry your case for you.'

'What are you then 'is skivvy?'

'No I'm a lodger and I help in the bar at weekends.'

'Oh yeah is that what they call it these days 'is lodger.'

'Yes just the lodger.'

I let her finish her drink and carry on tidying up, I won't let this ol' girl spoil my day, and I'll let Jack put her straight. I take her up to her room and show her where the bathroom is, just hope she doesn't start opening doors or she may well find her nephew pouring the Zzzz's! She's muttered and moaned all the way up here; imagine what a weekend with her will be like!

'What would you like in a sandwich then Lil, cheese or ham?

'Bit a bofe girl, you better wait or I won't know where I'm going.' She adds.

Just as well being as Jack's doors right opposite hers, she throws her bag on the bed and unzips out comes the party frock, which I offer to put on a hanger for her, long live crimplene is what I say!

'I'll need a towel and a glass fa me teef.'

'Yes I'll bring them up for you later shall we go and get that sandwich now.' I urge.

She follows me down to the kitchen and I offer her to sit down while I make the sandwich, what happens next is not pleasant out come the 'teef' which she puts on the side of her plate while she demolishes her food..... Jack's gonna love this!

'Are you ready to go and see your brother now then Lil?' I ask.

'What times his nibs coming back then?'

'Oh he'll probably be gone until early evening.'

'Best I get orf then, you gonna let me out.' Lil asks.

'Of course I've still got jobs to do in the bar.'

'Yer a bit posh fer Jack aint ya?'

'I'm a Londoner Lil I'm not posh.'

'Sounds it ta me girl thanks fer the grub.'

'My pleasure, see you later on.'

Round one over I think Jack's gonna have his hands full with her tonight, maybe I should make a pan of spag bol, Jack'll be starving and it'll be easy for aunty to wolf down....wait until Sam meets her! Speaking of which, I wonder if she's invited Carl to go to Kent tomorrow.

As I'm on my way back upstairs I receive a text from Sam to see if she can come in early for a chat, so I reply straight away be good to see her.

Carl's going to drive us to Kent tomorrow in his works van, how cool is that?' Sam declares.

'Mm and how are the three of you going to fit into a van honey?' I reply.

'Oh there's a seat behind the drivers where Nan can sit, my only worry is Dad, you know what he's like Rosie he still thinks I'm twelve!' Sam giggles.

'Tell Carl to take your Dad for a pint, but to make sure he drinks orange juice as he's driving, that'll convince him!' I suggest.

'I thought we might all go to the pub for lunch, only thing is you can't shut my Dad up once he's had a beer.'

'It'll be fine, is Ann looking forward to it?' I ask

'You know Nan she's already in love with Carl bless!'

'You wait until you meet Aunt Lil, not sure how long it is since Jack last saw her she's a real character.'

I then explain to Sam all about Jack going to bed and the antics of Lil, which amuses her immensely.

'By the way Rosie Budd the gorgeous guy on Friday night, come on spill.'

'I think I told you he was the one who wrote in and we published his letter, I'm still not sure how he found me, I'll have to ask him.'

'Wow you're seeing him again!' Sam blurts.

'Oh he just asked if he could call in for a chat sometime.....on reflection I wonder how he did find me....although according to the Jacobs woman it aint that difficult!' I smirk.

'You liked him Rosie I could tell you were grinning like a Cheshire cat, he was fit though so come on spill, do you fancy him?'

'What's not to fancy.....but you know I've finished with guys!'

'That Rosie Budd is so last month, get in there do you good!'

'Sam he's thirty one and I'm forty four that would make me a cougar!'

'Don't knock it til you've tried It.!' Sam urges.

'He has the most alluring blue eyes I've ever seen and he's mature for his age, I must admit 'only to you though' he did make me go week at the knees!'

'So what's the problem you go girl?' she laughs.

'Can you imagine Pens face if she saw me talking to him, she'd wipe the floor with me.' I add.

'No comparison Rosie...Bertie, and by the way what's his name?'

'Ollie Burns, anyway I made a pledge guys are Taboo!'

'Claptrap Rosie, pure baloney!' Sam declares laughing.

'You gonna have some spag bol before we start work, then you can meet Aunt Lil's 'teef.'

'Yes to the spag bol no to the 'teef'!'

I let Jack sleep until five, even made him coffee to try and wake him up, me and Sam had made a big pan of spaghetti bolognaise between many bouts of laughter. Aunt Lil hasn't re appeared yet but at least this time I can hand her over to Jack. So after our meal we went down to the bar to get ready for the evening session, within minutes the squawk box warned us Lil was back, so I let Sam have the pleasure.

'Anuvver one, who are ya?'

'I'm Sam one of the barmaids, you must be Aunt Lil?'

'Is jack 'ere now?' Lil asks.

'He'll be down in a minute he's just having his dinner,' I shout over, 'Would you like some?'

'I'll 'ave a gin first, can I 'ave me grub dann 'ere?'

I nod at Sam and she pours Lil a gin and tonic and I run upstairs to get her a plate of food.

'Good bit a nosh that girl, Jack declares, who's that lot for?'

'Lil wants it downstairs she's on the Gin thought I'd better warn you, she seems to think I'm your daily help and wait for it, your bird.'

'Let me at 'er Jack jumps up she does think it's the fuckin Ritz!' he says smiling.

Jack takes the food down for Lil, this should be fun and I'm right behind him.

'O yer 'ere then at last not afor time.' Lil chides.

'I am runnin a business 'ere Aunt Lil, looks like you've made yourself at 'ome anyway.'

As Jack put the plate in front of her without hesitation out came the 'teef' what happened next I'll never forget and Sam ran out the bar in hysterics!

Jack's face was a picture of disgust and I may have mentioned he doesn't mince his words, he was over to Lil in a second and with a beer towel he scooped up the teeth and threw them in the bin.....

'Wot u do that fer I want them!' She hollered!

'Well if you want 'em keep em in your gob, I won't have your disgusting 'abits in here, this is my pub so do as yer told, I remember you of old Lil!' Jack shouts.

'Ere you girl, get 'em out the bin.' She hollers again.

'My girls are not 'ere to wait on you, you're lucky they cooked you a meal get 'em out yourself then keep 'em right out my way!

'This is a bleedin dive anyway, look at the gaff.' She mumbles.

'Well you know what to do then don't ya!'

With that she pulls her 'teef' out the bin and puts them straight back where they belong!

'You wait 'til I tell yur 'ol man about you, you always was a bolshy little shit!'

'And you was always a cantankerous old bugger so nothings changed, you wanna stay here Lil you toe the bleedin line got it, stay out my face!' Jack declares.

Well how the other half live and all that, Sam's keeping out the way, Lil goes upstairs and Jacks got a face like thunder, I gather these two have had plenty of rucks before, I'd say she's as tuff as old boots. Strange because Jacks Dad's like a gentle giant, if Pen had seen that she'd have been mortified!

During the evening I keep looking towards the door when the squawk box chimes in, I'm being stupid he's not going to come in here again, why is it bothering me? I've finished with all that anyway.....however I still keep looking. Lil went out again which was a relief all round maybe she'll only stay one night, I hope she doesn't wind Jack up again tonight. Carls in again without his mates he is an eager beaver, but it's great to see Sam happy. Jack's a bit subdued which is totally out of character, I think he'll be glad when the parties over tomorrow not sure who else has been invited, maybe that's on his mind bit of a mixed bag his family by all accounts.

Wow I don't believe it Sam has just let Ollie in...Oh My God! My cheeks are burning and never in my life before has the sight of a guy turned me on so much....this is so not right pull yourself together Rosie Budd!

'Hi Rosie, I thought I'd call in for a pint while I was in the area, is that OK?' Ollie asks.

'Of course, what will you have a lager?'

'Sounds good to me, I've just been to see the latest James Bond movie have you seen it?' Ollie enquires.

'No things have been a bit hectic over the last few weeks; I haven't had much time for outings.'

'That's a shame; do you work every weekend here?' he asks.

'At the moment it's rather complicated, if you can hang on for a while I'll be finished then maybe we can chat, only if you have time though.'

'I'm a free agent Rosie I'd love to chat.'

I meet Sam at the till and that very smug little grin is written all over her face!

'He's got the hots for you Rosie.' She laughs.

'No don't be daft he's too young anyway and I'm off men!' I laugh back.

'Yeah right! You can't kid a kidder Ms Budd.' She adds.

I go round and join Ollie about half past eleven, Sam and Carl have left as they want to get away early in the morning for their trip to Kent, then I realise Lil hasn't arrived back, Oh well not really my worry I'll let Jack sort that out. He's drinking with a couple of mates; apart from them the pub is empty.

'So tell me about your complicated life Rosie.' Ollie urges.

'After my divorce I needed to find somewhere to live close to my work, you see we had been in a rented flat, so Jack who is an old friend offered me to stay here rent free, although I work weekends and also keep his books in lieu so to speak, it suits me for now although I do have a plan.' I disclose.

'Am I allowed to know your plan?' Ollie asks.

'Why not it's pretty simple really, I intend to save for a deposit and find myself a small one bedroom flat that I can actually make into a home.'

'That sounds like a good plan have you given yourself a time limit?'

'As soon as is humanly possible, I have a decent job so now I do not have to provide for any one else hopefully it won't take me too long.'

'Can I ask who you were providing for, a child maybe?'

'No my daughter has her own flat, it was my ex, to coin a phrase he was work shy and enjoyed riding on the gravy train if you get my meaning.'

'Absolutely seems life has dealt you a few rum cards Rosie.'

'I'm a survivor Ollie I try not to let too much get me down!'

Wow! Who's that the squawk box kicks in....

'I'll get it girl.' Jack shouts.

'Cheers Jack.'

As he opens the door his brother staggers in struggling to keep Aunt Lil on her feet.

'I fucking well new she'd be trouble!' Jack shouts.

'She's been at the gin bottle bruv, give us 'and and we'll chuck her on the bed.' Bill suggests.

'She's out of 'ere tomorro I've had a gut full of 'er already!' Jack states.

Between them they man handle her towards the stairs she's oblivious, and I'm so grateful she's not able to speak as I hate to think what Ollie would make of her.

'I'm so sorry about this Ollie, it's their Aunt and she's only here for the weekend as it's her brothers eightieth birthday tomorrow and Jacks throwing a party for him, it's Jacks Dad, it's been a bit of an eye opener today believe me and I'm working the party as well.'

'I best let you get some rest then Rosie, don't work too hard though.'

Ollie leaned over and kissed me on the cheek, I doubt if he'll ever come back in here again, and who would blame him, so I make my way up the stairs, feeling just a little dejected, Oh well what ever will be and all that..........

Chapter 11

What a night whatever was going on upstairs I dread to think, shouting, banging and at one time I thought someone was about to come through my ceiling! I'll be so glad when today's over, with that in mind I nip into the shower before making a pot of tea, all for me I hasten to add! So with my pot of tea and a plate of toast I go back to my room and lock the door just in case the old bat tries to get in. On my third cup of tea I decide to give Pen a ring hoping she's still in a reasonable mood.....

'Morning Love how are you?' I ask.

'You're early Mother it is Sunday morning and we....I'm still in bed.'

'Oops! Sorry love thought I'd mention I'm working today as Tom's party is on just in case you thought of popping in.'

'Hardly mother, I've got better things to do; I'll speak to you another time.'

That told me, she's back to her usual moody self, why have I got the feeling that it's gonna be one of those days! Best get myself dressed and go downstairs and tidy up....Oh well as my Dad would say if he was here, tomorrow's another day girl!

~

'Are you comfy there Ann?' Carl asks.

'Yes I'm fine Carl that extra cushions lovely on me back.' Ann replies.

'Did you ring Mum to say we were leaving Nan?' Sam checks.

'Yes girl you know how your Mum worries.'

'It shouldn't take us long, so let's get this show on the road ladies.' Carl jokes.

'It's kind of you to take us Carl saves that train journey love.' Ann adds.

'No problems Ann, how lucky am I having the company of two pretty ladies!'

'What a charmer!' Ann replies.

'I do feel sorry for Rosie having to work today Nan, that Aunt of Jack's is a blooming nightmare.'

'Yes shame love, but fancy Jack throwing her teeth in the bin!' Ann adds.

'That was the funniest thing ever, don't mess with Jack 'cos Jack don't mess!' Sam states.

When they arrived in Maidstone it was just ten o'clock, the journey had been uneventful and not too much traffic for a Sunday morning. Carls take on that is most people have a lie in, seems he could be right. Sue comes rushing down the path to greet them.

'Hi it's lovely to see you all!' Hugs all round from Sue.

'Mum this is Carl.'

'Hi Carl it's good to meet you, come on in guys, kettles on.'

The next few minutes are spent with introductions and the usual banter, and then everyone's seated at the kitchen table with tea, coffee and biscuits. Why are kitchen tables the most popular places to sit?

'So Carl what do you do for work?' Sam's Dad Tony enquires.

'I'm a plumber, we work all over London; we do a lot of contract work.'

'Good line to be in, always plenty of work around, d'you live at home or got your own place?' Tony adds.

'I still live at home with my Dad, we lost my Mum a couple of years ago, so it works out well for us both, my older sister is married.'

'Sorry to hear about your Mum love.' Sue adds.

Sam goes into a lengthy description of the Aunt Lil incident and has them all laughing, Sam's parents know Jack well so appreciate the tale.

'I was saying to Nan I feel sorry for Rosie working today, but more than that there's a woman in our office who's giving her a bad time, she found out about Rosie living at the Kasbah and her marriages, luckily Rosie had told Harry our editor anyway, just goes to show how some people love to gossip.'

'Who is the gossip then love, is she new, I though most of you all rubbed along well together? 'Sue asks.

'Oh we do but you always seem to get one bad egg, her names Diane Jacobs.'

'Does she live in Turnpike girl?' Ann asks.

'Yes Nan, near the Church, why d'you know her?'

'I know of her, but I know her older sister Carole I was at school with 'er, and I can tell you something for nothing those two aint got nothing to be proud of, there Mother Dolly was very free with 'er favours as they say, and both them girls were born out of wedlock, Dolly Jacobs never married!

'Wow! Thanks Nan, wish I'd mentioned her before, wait 'til I tell Rosie this bit of info! I won't send her a text, I'll save it for work tomorrow can't wait to see the look on her face, she could do with a bit of good news Penny Lee gives her such a bad time.'

'She always has girl, takes after her old man, shame but that's how it is.' Tony adds.

'Make sure you give Rosie our love Sam, she's a great girl and I know how she looks out for you babe.' Sue adds.

'How d'you all fancy lunch at the local, they have a carvery, or there's a separate menu, my treat?' Tony suggests.

'Let's go guys my sons giving his wallet an airing.' Ann says. 'Can we walk or do we need the cars?'

'We can walk Mum it's only down the road.'

They get to the Dolphin before it's too busy and manage to get a table; they all decide to have the carvery.

'So what's everyone drinking?' Tony asks.

'I'll get the drinks Tony.' Carl offers.

'No my treat today lad what you having?'

'Orange juice and lemonade please.' Carl adds.

'I'll have a white wine spritzer please Dad.' Sam says.

'Drinking at lunch time Sam?'

'Yes Dad I'm nearly twenty two not twelve!' they all laugh at this.

'Take no notice of him Carl, he still thinks she's his little girl, we humour him.' Sue adds.

After a fun lunch time they make their way back to the house, as now it's time for Carl to see the baby photos, it has to be done!

~

I meet up with Jack in the bar, the food has all been laid out ready for the buffet, the two women have done a good job, and thank goodness I'd had time to have a tidy up before they arrived. We placed a board over the pool table and a large table cloth so that all the food fits there a treat.

'Looking Ok Jack, what do you think?' I ask.

'Yeah its good girlfriend, did that ol' bat keep you awake all night, I'll tell you something she's out of 'ere today?'

'At one point I thought she was gonna join me through the ceiling, what was she doing?'

'You don't wanna know babe, she's always been a handful, but she's worse than ever now, I'll stick with it through the party 'cos I don't wanna upset the ol' man, if she's asks for gin cock a deafen!'

'How many are coming Jack?'

'About thirty I reckon girl, he'll have had enough by about five, so it won't be too late, then tonight we can get back to normal, Bill and Lena can't stay, but there coming over again in a couple of weeks, there's something to sort out with the rent and licence babe.'

'OK Jack, shall we open the door and get this party started!' I laugh.

'Yeah why not, bet that ol' bats gone back to bed, good, maybe she'll sleep right through it!'

Jack spoke to soon Lil suddenly appears in the bar with her bag.

'I aint staying 'ere anuvver night, after me grub I'm orf.'

'Keep your fucking teeth in an' all don't be showing me up!' Jack shouts.

'Hello Tom Happy Birthday love, come on in and get a seat.' I say'

'Thanks Rosie don't mind if I do, grub looks good girl.'

'You tuck in Tom it's your party.'

'Alright Dad Happy Birthday what you 'aving to drink?'

'Usual boy thanks.'

'I'll bring it over, get stuck into the grub.'

Within minutes the pub had filled up, Jack had toned the music down and was playing older stuff which was easier on the ear, or all the deaf aids would have malfunctioned. The party seemed to be going well until Lil started getting arsy with Jack because he wouldn't serve her with gin, in the end she picked her bag up and headed out the door without a bye or leave. Luckily Tom didn't notice so the moment passed, I'm sure Jack will give Tom a good reason as to why she left early.

'Result.' Jack whispered to me at the till.

'How will she get home?' I ask.

'Sherbert girl the ol' bats loaded, not that she ever stands a round of drinks and that's probably why she's loaded!'

By six O'clock they'd all gone, phew, can't say I was sorry.

'Get your glad rags on girlfriend I'm taking you for a beer.' Jack declares.

Chapter 12

Monday morning soon comes around, bit of a busy weekend, Jack took me for a Chinese and a bottle of plonk, so it was a relaxing end to the day, and we laughed a lot over Aunt Lil as he told me lots of stories about her from the past. I was back in the Kasbah by nine thirty and glad of the early night. Then Jack went off on his travels so he didn't re-open the pub again and I doubt if he came back last night. So the start to a new week, I have been wondering if Ollie came to the pub last night, then I berate myself, he won't return after the performance he observed on Saturday night, get real Rosie he's not coming back!

As I leave the Kasbah there's no sign of Jack, so I head towards the bus stop, I should make it into the office early, I like to start on time Monday morning, I'm always being told I'm far too methodical, however I think it works, well it does for me anyway.

'Rosie Budd have I got news for you!' Sam bursts into my office grinning from ear to ear.

'Come on then babe lets have it!'

'Nan knows something that'll really cheer you up!'

'She's invited me round for one of her yummy roasts?' I hint.

'No you nutter!' Sam laughs. 'She only went to school with Diane Jacobs's sister!'

'Oh My God are you for real Hun?'

'Completely,' Sam declares.

'Well come on babe dish the dirt!' I urge.

'The sisters name is Carole and as I say she was at school with Nan, evidently their Mother Dolly Jacobs, who was never married I hasten to add was very free with her favours, if you get my gist, so both the girls were born out of wedlock, so the bottom line is Dolly was a trollop and the sisters were a couple of bath...buns!'

'Wow! And she has the audacity to slag me off, I may have been married three times, but my daughters legitimate....how could she!'

'I was going to text you yesterday, but I wanted to see your face when I told you Rosie.' With that Sam gives me the biggest hug and I can feel the tears spring to my eyes.

'Thanks babe you're the best!'

'How you gonna handle it Rosie?'

'Luckily for her I'm not vindictive so I'm thinking a word in her shell like, of course if that doesn't do the trick then I'll resort to plan B, I actually can't wait to see her reaction!'

'Tell me when you're gonna speak to her, so I can clock 'er dial, as Jack would say.'

'Your on, and please thank Ann, I'll have to call in and see her later this week, she's an angel!'

'Mum, Dad and Nan all send their love, Dad's got himself ensconced into the local pub 'The Dolphin, you know what he's like, they seem happy enough though, you'll have to come down with me one Sunday.'

'Sure thing babe I'd love to.' I add.

'I best scarper, by the way did you look on the notice board Harry's holding a general meeting tomorrow around eleven.'

'Didn't see it Hun, I expect he'll send us all an email as well, catch you later babe.'

I sat and digested the information Sam had just shared with me, I can only imagine that Diane Jacobs had no idea that her skeletons would come out of the cupboard, why did she feel the need to want to hurt me, I've never done anything to her....or.....is there a touch of the green eyed monster rearing it's ugly head, because I've had three weddings (disastrous as they where) and she hasn't managed one, she obviously doesn't realise that she is possibly the lucky one here....is she....who knows...life is a learning curve and I just like learning! So without another thought I head over to the lady in questions office, giving Sam a nod as I go.

'Can I have a word Diane?' I ask.

'I'm busy.' She snaps.

'Oddly enough so am I, however this is important.' I assure.

'You better spit it out then'. She snaps again.

'It's recently been brought to my attention that you have been gossiping about me, I believe you gleaned some information from a certain person and felt the need to make sure everyone in our offices got to know about it, please correct me if I'm wrong.' I urge.'

She now looks as though she's sucking a lemon.

'Well no more than you deserve Rosie Budd you're so full of yourself, married three times now shacking up in that dive, what d'you expect?' she growls.

Funnily enough I'm quite enjoying this, and from the corner of my eye I can see Sam is to....so now for my punch line.

'All I can say to that Diane is, it's a pity your Mother didn't make it down the isle once!

Now I'm sure she's swallowed the lemon, whole I think!

'Yes Diane in future I'd be extremely careful what you say about me, because I've recently gleaned a lot of information too, and I'm sure everyone in the office would love to know!

'No! No! You mustn't do that no one knows about my past, how the hell did you find out?'

'Now that would be telling, and that's something I aint gonna do, anymore than I'm going to justify my life to the likes of you, your very fortunate that unlike yourself I'm not a vindictive bitch....although having said that, should I discover there's been any more gossip spread by you, you'll leave me no choice but to put plan B in action!

With that I make a hasty exit from her office, feeling just a little bit smug...Mm I think you handled that well Rosie Budd! By the look on Sam's face I think she agrees, I'll fill her in later.

'Rosie these have just arrived for you Hun.' Gerry our security guy hands me a bouquet of red roses.

'Mm aren't I the lucky bunny.' I laugh. 'Cheers Gerry.'

No card, I have received flowers on a few occasions, mostly from people who have written in and felt my remedy has helped their situation, but these are the first red roses now that's giving room for thought! My initial thought (or wishful naughty thought turns to Ollie) No don't even go there I berate myself. There probably from someone I've published on my page, lets be honest here, sending red roses has several meanings, I quickly google it and it says, love and affection, job well done, respect and all that so it could be anybody, they are lovely though so I'll keep them in my office. My mobile springs into life, a text from Sam asking who the flowers are from and do I fancy a pizza at lunch time as she's bursting to know what happened, So I send a quick reply saying 'Don't know, Yes and OK.......(hope you're keeping up). What a start to the week, and I'm now wondering what the meetings about tomorrow.

Chapter 13

When I got home last night there was no sign of Jack, so I didn't knock to see if he was around, best to leave him to his own devices if he'd wanted a call he would have scribbled a note. I had my tea and spent some time with the dreaded books, and to my surprise Penny Lee rang, she seemed in a better mood so I told her the news in detail about Diane Jacobs and what had taken place at work in the morning, she was astonished by what I relayed to her and has asked to meet me for a coffee during the week. That sounds encouraging although Pen does blow hot and cold so best to wait and see. After an hour of cooking Jacks books I decided to watch a DVD and chill, I think I must have fallen asleep before the credits.

~

The office was fairly busy when I arrived, appears everyone is a tad uneasy about this mornings meeting, probably because Harry's called it at short notice, generally we know at least a week in advance. I doubt there's going to be cutbacks as we're doing very well according to reviews and quantity of sales. Oh well we'll soon find out.

I spend the next couple of hours reading through emails and letters, still indecisive as to which ones I'll publish, I'm pleasantly surprised that the male enquiries are on the up, so I feel it's a good time to select another one for this week. Just before eleven I notice Harry heading into the main office, so time for the essence of the meeting to be revealed!

'Ok guys first let me apologise for such short notice unfortunately it couldn't be helped in this instance. So let's get underway, I've called you all here as the company are making changes and they want them to start as from next Monday, our sales are up and we need to take advantage of this and give the customers 'more for their money' so to speak. I want some of our single pages to become double spreads, to enable this to happen, the said columnists will be given a personal assistant from the main office, to replace the PA's I'll be taking on more juniors; some of them will be on work experience, which will benefit us financially. The pages to be made into double spreads are as follows...The Fashion page, Celebrity, Interior Design, Makeover Moments and Rosie's Remedies. The Recipe/ Cookery will become a double, however your page will be staying the same Diane, and we have a male chef who is going to write the second page. Now the way this is going to work, the assistants will be selected from our most advanced juniors, so the five I've chosen are as follows, Clare, Helen, Kylie, Alice and Sam, you will be matched with a columnist and then become there permanent assistant. If any of you do not wish to accept this role you can tell me afterwards, now are there any questions?'

After a considerable amount of muttering Diane Jacobs put her hand up.

'Why can't I do the double page Harry?'

'Because the company have decided they want a male chefs input, anyone else have any queries, if not I want to speak to the five girls and allocate them to a columnist, so we can all get back to work, Ok thank you all lets make this work as its for all our benefits, I'll speak to you all in turn throughout the week, so we are all conscious of where we're heading.'

I looked over at Sam and crossed my fingers she nodded back; I hope I get her she'll be a great asset to the page and I know we can work well together.

Harry must have read my mind, as within half an hour Sam comes in my office with a huge grin.

'Where's my chair then boss?' she laughs.

'Oh! Thank goodness Sam, mind you I thought he'd send you to me, he aint silly eh! We'll make a great team, time to celebrate this weekend then babe!'

'Shall we start now with a coffee and a chocolate digestive?' says Sam.

'Sounds good, by the way that put Ms Jacobs's nose out of joint, what goes around and all that!' more laughter.

'So we're having a male chef, Jamie Oliver, maybe?' Sam suggests.

'Mm you'll be lucky!'

'The roses look gorgeous I think I know who sent them.' Sam laughs as she goes for the coffee.

While Sam's out of the office I move my paperwork around and swivel the desk round so she has her own end and a couple of empty drawers I want her to feel comfy. A satisfying day I'm thinking, it will be beneficial having two pages, and we'll be able to publish more letters reaching a far wider audience.

'Is that my end?' She laughs.

'Why not we're in this together now Hun, you've been selecting the priorities for me for ages now, so you'll get much more input.'

On my way home on the bus as we pass the old pub I used to work in I'm surprised to see Ollie coming out of the bar with a brief case, then I realise I have no idea what he does for a living, maybe he's in sales, I'm straining my neck round to see which way he's going, but the traffic blocked my view, now I'm all hot and bothered if you know what I mean, part of me wants to jump off the bus and run back, then my sensible head tells me to behave and remember my decision!

Jack's in the bar when I get back and looking rather grim.

'Hi Jack what's happening?' I ask.

'There's been some geezer hanging around today girl, not sure where from, he tried the box but I ignored it, 'cos I'd been watching through the function room window, brief case and all that, gotta be debt collector.'

'OK what if I send a letter to the important ones asking for time to pay, at least it should stall them for a while, if you keep ignoring them and they know you're here it's just antagonising the situation, what d'you think?'

'I'll leave it to you Clipper you know what you're doing.'

'As there's no bank account I'll ask for a payment book, so we can make some kind of payment each month at the post office.'

'Give 'em a quid a month girl at least they're getting something.'

'I'm pretty sure they'll want more than that, but let me have a look at it, plus there's a leccy bill due to pay like now.'

'How much babe?'

'Two hundred and fifty quid or there abouts.'

'Shit! We'll have to start using candles.' Jack laughs.

'If you give me a bit each day, you won't miss it so much, they'll catch up in the end Jack.'

'Yeah I know your right; I'll shove a cash bag outside your door later.'

'Are you opening tonight?'

'Yeah I'll leave it another hour make sure that snoops buggered orf.'

'Ok I'm gonna make an omelette, fancy one?'

'When do I ever say no too food Clipper?'

'Yeah guess it was a silly question, I'll shout you when it's ready.'

After we'd eaten I knew I had to sort out the most urgent outstanding debts, draught a letter that I could use for them all, and I can print them out at work tomorrow in my lunch break. Jack's left me four hundred pound, so at least I can settle the leccy bill and make a slight indent into some of his debts, so my evening was spent doing just this. Later I made a hot chocolate which I took back to my room, and then my mind wandered back to Ollie coming out of The Castle, maybe it's his local, or as I first thought he could be a rep...Mm I wonder what he sells? Maybe I'll have a snoop and call in when I'm passing; well I used to work there, so I'm no stranger.

Sam was in the office before me busily sorting through our selected letters that were going out to print this week.

'Morning love you're an eager beaver.'

'Morning Rosie, I thought I'd get all this in order for you, then as you draft your replies I can start to set them all out, by the way Harry wants a word with all columnists at eleven, must have forgotten something yesterday.' Sam advises.

'Well, he is a man babe.'

'Anyway while we're working you can give me all the goss on you and Carl, how's it going, time you filled me in?'

'This may sound a bit mad but it's like I've known him for years, and he was great when we went to Mum and Dads, Nan absolutely loves him, he's so easy going Rosie.'

'I couldn't be more pleased for you love, I'll try and chat with him a bit more at the weekend, not Friday though it's karaoke this week, Jack had some guy snooping around the pub yesterday, we think a debt collector, so I spent last night drafting out a letter, which I intend to send to everyone he owes (that means half the City) I'll photo copy them in my lunch break and get them in the post, I sometimes wonder how he's managed to stay open this long.'

'He's such a chancer; he works though no head for money.' Sam adds.

'Mm that's debatable love; he's got a head for money so long as he pockets it.'

'I've put him in the picture though; if he doesn't attempt to pay up they'll find a way of evicting him.'

'Shame, keep nagging him Rosie, he listens to you, so many people would miss The Kasbah.' Sam urges.

'I'll do me best babe, the Kasbah is a listed building, so part of out heritage, and they only pay a peppercorn rent, what they intend to do with it long term I've got no idea, structurally it's in Dior need of repair, as you know.'

'I better nip out and see what Harry wants, fancy a coffee on my way back?' I ask.

'Never say no to a caffeine fix.' Sam laughs.

'Hi guys sorry to drag you out again today, my fault entirely, as I should have mentioned yesterday about photographs, I want new photos on all of your pages, so it shows the public we're up dating you as looks change, I'll use Rosie as a prime example with her new style and colour. As from next week on the inside back page we're going to have pictures that will be randomly taken throughout the Company, no writing, no names, this is to show the public the way we work, nothing posed we want to make it as natural as possible, I will be the only person who decides what goes to print, I'm sure we'll get reviews and feedback pretty quickly, so that's our new 'facelift' underway and for the first two weeks we go out at a reduced price. Any questions hit me with them now, so we can get this new look underway!'

No hands up so apparently no queries, it all sounds quite exciting, I'll go and fill Sam in, then I'd better do that bit of photo copying to help get Jack out the mire!

Chapter 14

On my way home I get off the bus near The Castle, think I'll call in for a drink and a catch up with the regulars, the landlord has changed since I worked there, so why not introduce myself, am I just being a tad inquisitive.....or some may say blooming nosy! Trouble is I can't get Ollie out of my mind.......

As soon as I arrived at the Castle I met up with some of the old regulars, so that put me at ease and it wasn't long before I was introduced to the new landlord a Mike Wright, he seemed like a down to earth type of guy and after a brief chat, mainly about my time working behind the bar, he was offering me a job, very kind, however there simply are not enough hours in the day! I considered asking about Ollie, then thought better of it as it would look as though that was the only reason I called in (which it was), so better to shelf it for a while and maybe I'll drag Sam in another day. So after my lager shandy I head back to the Kasbah to see how Jack's days been. Like yesterday I find him in the bar, door once again locked.

'How's it going boyfriend?' I jest.

'That geezers been hangin around again girl, so I haven't answered the door.'

'I sent all the letters off today first class, so they'll hit the mats in the morning, and the leccy bills paid, we should get a bit of breathing space hopefully, so when the mail comes please leave it in my room Jack, no shoving it in empty crisp boxes!' I chide.

'You've got it girl!'

'Being as my days been OK I'll cook us a meal, you look like you need a mate at the moment, anything else bothering you?'

'You seen that dark haired bint that's been hanging around in 'ere the past couple of weeks?' Jack asks.

'Yeah I thought she was a friend of yours.'

'Don't go there girlfriend, she's been coming in with a few of our regulars, I've been told she's after me, but she wants more than a 'jiffy stiffy' if you see what I mean, and Jack don't want none a that babe, she aint getting 'er hands on my empire!'

With that I make my way up to the kitchen, what is he like, his empire the house that Jack built, that about sums it up! His comments are classic and always good for a laugh, suits my sense of humour, well if it didn't I wouldn't be here would I? Now to find something to eat, think I need a trip to Sainsbury's, I find a pack of fish fingers in the freezer, they'll do for tonight, good enough for kids good enough for us, with a pile of chips of course.

After our meal Jack opens up as the 'snoopers' no longer around, I decide to go to Sainsbury's and Jack throws in forty quid towards the shopping, looks like a cab ride back for me, with a heavy load. I'm wandering up and down the isles with my trolley, happily selecting bits and pieces and also trying to remember essentials (should have made a list, but forgot) when I looked up and I noticed a guy standing at one of the checkouts, straight away even from the back I knew it was him, my legs went wobbly and my tummy was doing flips, my first instinct was to run up the isle towards him, something was stopping me as my wobbly legs didn't want to move, so I stood and gazed in a dream like fashion, probably resembling a star struck teen! I think the reason I didn't move (apart from the fact my body didn't want to) was I hadn't heard from him, and he may have been embarrassed by a silly women pursuing him at the check out! He'd now disappeared from sight, time to pull myself together and get the hell out of here, I was acting as if I was at a pop concert and I'd just caught sight of my idol!

'D'you want a hand with that lot Clipper?' Jack offers as I struggle through the doorway with half a dozen bulging carriers!

'Mm why not, I think my arms have already grown a couple of inches.' I laugh.

Shopping stacked away, hot chocolate made and time to catch up on a few Skype calls, Mum and Dad first, then our Clara (that'll be fun she's as pompous as Penny Lee) truth is I like winding her up it's fun! After that bed, I know for sure I'll be mulling over what happened in the supermarket!

'How D'you fancy coming to a show with me and Carl Rosie, be a change for you?' Sam asks as I walk in the office.

'Do I look round green and hairy?' (Think about it)!

'Don't be daft it'll be fun, maybe, The Body Guard or Wicked, or you pick one.' Sam insists.

'I'm sure you two would far rather be on your own Hun.'

'No we want you to come it'll be fun we could do it on a weekday, go straight from work.'

'Let me sleep on it love, thanks for thinking of me though.'

'We all set for deadline babe?' I ask.

'Yeah just need you to lay it out Rosie.'

'Shall I tell you where we went last night?' Sam giggles.

'C'mon you've got a certain look on your face, what have you been up to?'

'We went for a ride in the van....parked up for a while.' She goads.

'And?'

'Say you'll come to a show with us and I'll give you all the gory details.' She giggles again.

'You drive a hard bargain, OK one night next week it is then, I've decided to give up the mystery shopping, I'm sure you'll be thrilled no more excessive eating Hun, I just haven't got time as Harry wants me to do five days now, plus the Kasbah, and by the way I didn't tell you about last night did I?'

As we had so many stories to swop we went to Starbucks for lunch and I relayed my trip to Sainsbury's and the Castle, then I got the low down on Sam and Carl in Battersea Park no less........

'So you've actually done the deed and in the back of his van, hope he had a mattress.' I joke.

'No, it just sort of happened.' Sam laughs.

'Yes Hun it usually does!'

'It's the first time he's even tried anything; I was beginning to think I'd have to make the first move, if you know what I mean.'

'Your funny his first try, hope he wasn't wearing 'nut huggers' (tight jeans just in case you didn't know) or that would have slowed you down!'

'There was no stopping me I may be bad Rosie Budd but I'm blooming good at it!'

'What are you like? And next you'll be telling me the earth moved! I joke.

'No but the van was rocking!' 'I'm gonna have to sneak him in when Nan's in bed, bit chancy in the van!' She laughs.

'Are you seeing him tonight babe?'

'Yeah, he's coming round and Nan's at bingo!

'Say no more!' I add.

There was no sign of Jack when I got back to the pub, or his snooper, although once again I noticed the till draw was open and he'd left money there, so I stuffed the money into a cash bag, just left him a float and made my way upstairs. Which got me thinking about the so called snooper, this guy could be trying to serve Jack with a writ, I doubt he's even considered that, he may think he's elusive, however these guys are experienced and they'll nab him in the end. Hopefully we'll get some response from the letters I sent out, wonder where he is tonight or if he'll open. Not my worry so it's food and chores......

This will be my first full time Friday, we're all busy prepping for next weeks new look, I'm not complaining about the extra work as Harry's increased my salary, which means I can save more towards my deposit. As my life now seems to be work driven I've not had the temptation to spend, the show next week will be a treat, guess we all need a little something in our lives. Every now and then I find myself thinking of Ollie, he's rather an enigma......also the roses which are displayed beautifully on a shelf in the office.....who did send them? Will I ever find out...only time will tell?

Chapter 15

Karaoke tonight so quick shower, change and bite to eat, in that order, as the mob start coming in early, it's Friday night, time to get high, the philosophy of the average bunch of Ming Mongs that hang out in the Kasbah is, nothings illegal until you get caught! This 'dive' (did I say that?) is a real eye opener, however there are a handful of good humoured courteous peeps who also frequent this rather peculiar establishment, why? I'm not sure, perhaps they find it entertaining after a hard week's work or maybe the pubs in walking distance, what ever the reason it makes for a mixed bunch and for me personally it appeals to my ridiculous sense of humour, and I can confidently say Sam would endorse that!

'I think we should sing tonight Rosie?' Sam declares. 'You can pick the song,'

'You want to clear the pub early then?' I jest.

'We can ask Chris to put us on last, Jack'll be up for it, and come on it'll be a laugh!'

'The last time we attempted to sing neither of us could hit the high notes and all we did was giggle.'

'Leave it to me then I'll find one!' Sam assures.

'What will Carl think?' I say hoping to change her mind.

'Oh maybe he'll join in, I think he's worked out I'm a bit 'out there.' She laughs.

'Speaking of which here's the very man.' Carl and his mates pile in all looking ready for a beer and a good night out, you can always tell when it's Friday.

I notice the brunette's in again and Jack's not looking too happy about it, I'm thinking she's blown her chance even for a one nighter. There's a couple of 'heavy's just walked in, haven't noticed them before, and Jack's clocked them straight away, in fact Jack isn't looking very easy at all tonight. Now since I've been working here there's never been any trouble as such, when I worked at the Castle we did encounter a couple of skirmishes which were soon sorted out. I believe it's always wise to be observant, just in case of misdemeanours. Fortunately for Jack there are several heavy's that use the Kasbah and they're all Jacks mates, as I've mentioned previously there's a lot of recreational substances flying around this place, this is something that myself and Sam know nothing about and have no desire to, in fact if I was asked by authorities I could honestly say I had never seen anything change hands, as I've said Jack plays all his cards close to his chest and that's the way I like it! Karaoke's in full flow and the bar is exceptionally busy, as I meet Sam at the till; we get chance for a quick word.

'Jack looks uneasy tonight what do you think and have you seen those guys before?' I whisper.

'No to the guys and yes to Jack.' She replies.

As I serve I feel myself becoming slightly uneasy, as another couple of strangers have found there way in. I'm getting the feeling that something's brewing here. No dancing from Jack either now that's a bad sign as he loves a bit of bopping.

'If the squawk box goes don't let anyone else in the gaff!' Jack comes round to tell me.

'What's up then Jack?' I ask as he's walking away, Mm did that fall on deaf ears?

'Don't let anyone else in babe, something's not right here tonight, I'd tell Carl and the lads to stay round the other side of the bar.' I advise Sam.

'Ok Rosie.'

Then like a bolt from the blue it all kicks off, me and Sam are bodily lifted out the bar and bundled down to the toilets, more than a little stunned, the guys who brought us here where Jacks mates and all they said was to stay put. All the other women in the bar have come running down to join us....we can hear a lot of racket going on, glass smashing and what sounds like wood breaking, some of the girls are in tears, so I feel obliged to try and calm the situation, not that I feel in the least bit calm. Sam's fine but a couple of the girls are getting hysterical.

'Ok now we all need to keep calm and shut up as we're not helping by screaming, a fights kicked off and we have to cool it! That way none of you will be hurt, there's no other way out of this place only through the bar so we have to hang out in here until it's over.' I urge.

'My ol' mans up there I wanna know what's going on an you aint' gonna stop me!' comes from a mouthy redhead.

'Go up there then suit your self lady, but you'll only be shoved back down, no skin off my nose.'

'Who d'you think you are telling me what ta do?' she replies.

'Not telling, advising, Jack's got you out of the line of fire so to speak, be grateful.'

'Fuck off why don't ya, I'm going.'

'Your prerogative.' I add.

'You smarmy fuckin posh bitch!'

With that she goes back towards the bar, all the others have pretty much calmed down, and probably realise there in the best place, then there's a piercing scream and the next thing she's been bundled back to the loo's sporting a very bloody face!

'I did ask you to stay put, let's have a look.' I ask.

'Get ur ands off me!'

'Serves you right you can't help some people.' Sam shouts and squares up to her.

But the stupid bitch backs down, it seems to have quietened down a bit, but best to wait until we're told to move, I have a dread of what we're about to find when we do go back. I hope Jack's OK and I hope no ones been seriously injured I hate fighting, never think it solves anything.....and could this all be over drugs?

At last one of the guys comes down. 'You can come back up, but mind where you walk there's a load a glass everywhere, Jack wants you all to get out as quick as you can!'

What a mess! It looked like a bomb had dropped; I mean the décor in this pub was iffy to start with for want of a better word, but this is the pits! Everyone's being urged to leave, Chris is packing up his karaoke equipment, which at a glance seems in tact, it seems that behind the bar, the bar itself and the area in front of the bar has got the bulk of the damage, it's where Jack and his cronies hang out, speaking of which I can't see Jack. Sam catches up with Carl round the other side by the pool table and while round there she shuts and locks the door as nearly everyone's out now.

'Where's Jack?' I ask nobody in particular.

'He's copped a blinder he'll be down in a minute.' Comes form one of his cronies.

I'm trying to take in the damage, so much glass, looks like a couple of chairs and at least one of the bar stools are smashed, can't see any bottles on optics and the mirror behind the top shelf has copped it, I make my way round to Sam and Carl.

'What the hell happened Carl?' I ask.

'There were about four guys, none of us recognised them, it just kicked off, they were out for Jack, but they ended up worse off in the end as the lads let 'em have it, looks worse than it is Rosie.

'Hey it might even improve the place!'Is my pathetic attempt at humour.

'Best start to clear up then Hun, what d'you think?'

'Yeah couple of brooms and mops we'll have it ship shape in no time.' Sam adds.

'Come on guys I'll give you a hand.' Carl offers.

As I go to fetch the cleaning gear, I meet Jack coming down the stairs; he really has 'copped a blinder.'

'Blooming heck Jack, lets have a butchers?'

'Yeah the wanker caught me with a right hook, but girl they looked a fuckin sight worse than me when they left!'

'I'm not gonna ask any questions. None of my business, as long as you're OK, we'll get the place cleaned up!' I offer. 'All I ask is if there's any wine I wouldn't mind a glass for me and Sam, and thanks for getting us out of the line of fire.'

'Always look after the ladies, I'll check the wine.'

So for the next hour me, Sam, Carl and a couple of the guys cleared up the mess, Jack sent one of his henchmen round for a fresh supply of booze, just for the night, think we'll have to do a cash and carry run tomorrow. So by eleven O'clock we were all sitting around chatting, me with Sam and Carl and Jack with his cronies and Chris the karaoke guy.

'Have you ever been in before when it's kicked off Carl?' I ask.

'A couple of times, but luckily it doesn't happen often, that's why Jack's careful who he lets in, not sure how those bods got in tonight.'

'I thought Jack looked uneasy, bet he'll keep the doors shut all the time now, thank goodness he's got mates.' I say.

'Those guys probably come from another manor, could be to do with gear, or they could have been trying their luck, doubt they'll be back as they did get a hiding, that's the thing in this pub Rosie we all look after each other.'

'Except that mouthy woman who walked into someone's fist, she was a right bitch!' Sam assured.

'Lippy women!' Carl laughed.

I decided I'd had enough excitement for the day, another occurrence to put down to experience, thank my lucky stars Penny Lee didn't observe that disturbance!

Chapter 16

My alarm has a terrible habit of urging me out of this comfy bed, so unreasonable!

As I stretch, my thoughts go to Jack and his black eye, I wonder what state he's in as we have to go to cash and carry this morning, being as there's hardly any stock, so I'd better make a move. Tea, toast and a quick shower, perhaps I should give him a knock to make sure he's awake.

'You up Jack?'

'Clipper, I can't go out like this, look at that state of me! Jack moans as he opens the door.'

'Blimey mate that is one hell of a shiner! What d'you want to do get some stock from the offie?'

'No girlfriend, will you take the car get all the gear and I'll unload when you get back, it's too pricey round there, and he robs me?'

'Ok no probs, but I'll get going now as it's busy down there on a Saturday, there only open half day, you made a list?'

'No you know what we need, better than me.' Jack hands me the car keys.

'OK I'll have a quick check before I leave, text you on my way back.'

The local cash and carry isn't far, but like I said it's Saturday morning and it fills up with all the small shopkeepers, so I'm expecting a queue, I do most of the shop by memory, throwing on some nibbles as well, at the last, moment I remember the coke and lemonade. Anything else I'll have to nip round the corner, when I reach the checkout, as expected there's about six people in front of me, with well laden trolleys, so I decide to give Penny Lee a ring, she didn't pick up, maybe she'll ring me back. I'm glad I don't have to do this every weekend, when the cars loaded I send Jack a text so he's in the bar waiting to unload, no reply but that's normal, as I arrive back at the pub and press the squawk, no answer, so I let myself in and start unloading, for quickness I shove all the bottles just inside the door, still no sign of Jack, no point in leaving stuff in the car or it'll be nicked round here, so I get it all inside, lock the door and park the car. Where is Jack, it's not like him to let me down, so once back inside I nip upstairs to see where he is, as I go in the kitchen shock horror there's Jack sprawled out on the floor face down. Do I try and turn him or should I call an ambulance, now I'm no nurse, but they do warn you not to move people, has he fallen, did someone get at him or what? So quick decision I call an ambulance, by the time they arrive Jack is muttering, but I tell him to lie still until the paramedics arrive. I can hear the box screaming in the bar so I run down and let the guys in, two of them follow me up the stairs and within minutes they've turned Jack around and one of them is holding his head the other taking pressures and all that stuff, Jack seems a tad disorientated.

'That's a shiner you've got there mate, how did you end up on the floor.' He asks.

'He seemed OK when I went out a couple of hours ago.' I add.

'I just came in to make coffee, think I must have bumped into something, I can't see that well, not sure.'

'I think you've got a bit of concussion, but we can take you in and check you out, to be sure.'

'No I'll be alright I'm staying 'ere.' Jack insists.

'Well we can't make you come in, but make sure you get plenty of rest and no alcohol, any dizziness and if you're not feeling any better by this evening, come to A and E'.' He aims this at me.

'Ok I'll keep an eye, thanks for coming out so quickly.' I assure.

I show them out, and then go back to Jack who is now sitting on a chair.

'Ok mister back to bed I'll make you coffee and breakfast, stay put Jack.' I say in my bossiest voice!

'What about the bar and all that shit.' Jack moans.

'I'll see to it and I'll get Sam to come in early, so for once in your life do as you're told you tramp!'

I ring Sam to bring her up to date with the latest news from the Kasbah, she's going to come in early, I've told her not to rush as I can sort the bar out, I put all the stock away and have a general tidy up, the broken mirror at the back of the bar needs covering it looks so crap......there's a pile of old curtains in the airing cupboard upstairs so I'll see if there's something plain that I can pin up for now until Jack decides what he's going to do (I'm thinking probably nothing). So after a quick search I find a dark red velvet curtain that should fit, (I know I said velvet...well it was once... you know what I mean)! By the time I've hammered a few nails in its looking better already, what's the betting it'll still be there next year. Next job is to check on the barrels, in case I need to order more in, so down to the cellar, which is murky and dark, with oodles of critters, maybe some form the ark! (humour me please) the mice scuttle around as I enter, there is a dim light, I daren't touch anything as I suffer from arachnophobia and every other blooming phobia to date! Pity I don't suffer from the phobia of men, would have saved me a lot of trouble....I check the freezer for ice...then the barrels....Shit! Something ran over my foot, stupid wearing flip flops down here Rosie! I notice on my left hand side there are boxes of glasses, well that's what they look like, who knows what else is living in there, I'll tell Sam she's not such a wus as me! Back upstairs my mobile's flashing, must be a missed call, then the squawk box jumps into action.....

'Rosie it's me!' Sam shouts.

'Pleased to see you babe I've just been in that blooming cellar to check the barrels and ice, looks like there's boxes of glasses down there but I'm terrified of touching them, help!' I whinge

'What are you like Rosie Budd; I'll come down with you, after a coffee and a chat.'

'You're on Hun.'

Over a coffee and must have toast, I fill Sam in with all the details of the morning, and then we set about ordering barrels and once again hit the cellar! Now wearing trainers and a pair of rubber gloves, which Sam is finding very amusing, down we go. There is so much clutter; it really must date back to the ark! We find lots of glasses, that we need after last nights smashing time, ice buckets, t-shirts full of mildew, Christmas décor, Halloween, you name it it's all here as well as every possible living bug on the planet. You've heard of the Gangsters Paradise....well that's upstairs...down here is the Paradise for mice! (I did say humour me)!

'These glasses are better than the ones we're using Sam.'

'They will be once they've all been washed; I hate to think what's been crawling around inside them.' She laughs.

'I'll fill the sink up with really hot water and put them in soak for a while.' I add.

'Jack wants the door kept locked all night and the chain on, only let people in we know.' I mention.

'That's OK Carl said he'll look after the door, he's bringing his Dad out for a pint tonight, so we won't have to bother.'

'I don't think Jack wants us to tell anyone what's happened apart from big Jimmy, he's the one who bundled us down to the toilets last night, so maybe when they ask where Jack is, as they will, maybe best to say he's around somewhere and he'll be down later, what d'you think Hun?'

'Spot on, if they keep asking where he is just ignore them.' Sam adds.

We ordered in our favourite pizza before we opened the bar, and went up to see Jack, he was awake but still looked groggy, so we propped him up with pillows and gave him a tray with pizza and a cold drink.

'What d'you think I'm a fuckin pensioner, get me a beer girl?' Jack moans.

'No alcohol Jack, remember what they said, we're in charge now!' We both laugh.

'Want a straw with your orange juice Jack?' Sam goads and then promptly takes her mobile out and takes his photo...then we leg it to the sound of Jack shouting, 'I'll get you bitch!'

The evening got into full swing Carl was great on the door as he knows all the regulars anyway, 'when in doubt keep 'em out' was the policy of the night, I had a word with big Jim to put him in the picture, so he would keep his eye on the youngsters as well, I'm sure it made him feel important, still he may have the IQ of a pork pie but he's got the muscles of a man and that's exactly what we need.

'Someone to see you Rosie,' Carl calls out.

'Who is it love?'

'Penny Lee.'

'It's my daughter Carl let her in.' Shit I could do without this tonight, please don't cause a scene I silently pray, or I may have to bar you.

'Alright Pen, Bertie how are you two?'

'How are you Rosie?' Bertie asks.

'Fine thanks love, what brings you two in tonight, no karaoke tonight Bertie.' I jest.

'We haven't come for that I hoped we might be able to have a chat Mother.' Penny Lee growls.

'Not tonight love, sorry we're too busy.'

'Where's Jack then can't he do some work for a change.' She insists.

'No he's busy doing other things and I won't be finished until at least midnight. Sorry Pen but I must get on; I'll get you a drink in a minute.'

'I told you it would be a waste of time Bertram; she'd rather be serving drinks in this dive.'

'You're Mothers working Penny why don't you call in during the week.' Bertie suggests.

As I come back to the bar I see the tail end of them leaving, I'm in the mire again, give me a break someone I'm doing my best! Why have I got a daughter who is impossible? I notice a couple of the lads having a barnie....no I'm gonna nip this in the bud! I shoot round the other side of the bar.

'Don't even think about kicking off in here, or I'll bar you, Got it!' I shout.

Suddenly I have an audience....powers gone to my head....but it worked they cut it out straight away!

'Wow Rosie Budd you should have your own pub you'd be brilliant!' Sam laughs as I meet her at the till.

'I don't think so Hun I'm trembling inside.'

'Get away you'd soon master that.' She adds.

'Think I'd far rather write my column Sam, and then I only have to handle the Diane Jacobs of this world!'

'Rosie there's someone else asking for you.' Carl shouts. Ollie Burns.

'OK Carl.'

Oh My God it's all going on tonight.....now I've completely lost the plot, my stomachs doing somersaults and my knees are all wobbly. Walking over to serve him I see he's not on his own, there's an attractive woman with him.......what to do what to do?

'Hello Rosie, how are you?'

'Mm I'm fine, and you?' I say in the squeakiest voice imaginable.

'Yes I'm good; let me introduce you to Zara.'

I nod my head and with every conceivable effort try to shut my gob and turn the corners of my mouth upwards.

'Can I get you a drink?' I squeak again.

'I'll have a lager please Rosie and a white wine spritzer for Zara.'

Fancy bringing her in here she's young, smart attractive and here's me in my skinny jeans and trainers, he obviously likes a trophy on his arm.....what an idiot I was to even imagine he'd look my way, grow up Rosie, I silently berate myself!

'I hope you manage to find a seat Ollie, rather busy tonight.' I offer as I give him his change.

'I'm sure we will, I daresay a chats out of the question?' he asks.

'I'm sorry but we are busy.'

I move to the next customer with haste, there's always a next customer in this gaff, and tonight for that I'm grateful. Sam gives me a strange little grin as I catch her eye; have to chat to her later. Then the Heineken barrel needs changing and the ice bucket is empty, so I'm rather pleased to escape to the dark dingy cellar! An encounter with the mice has to be better than watching Ollie slobbering over Zara! I mean why he had to bring her in here....shut up Rosie he has every right to bring her in, he's a young fit guy, and anyway men are all Taboo to you!

I can't resist but to look over as I'm pouring drinks to see where Ollie is, they did find a table, and just seem to be chatting, doubt they can hear much with this racket going on, one thing's for sure she won't be impressed with the Kasbah, she certainly doesn't look like a local girl. The youngsters are on the move, and I for one am not sorry, hopefully I'll have them all out before midnight, and big Jim needn't think he's staying after time, I'll make sure Sam and Carl stay until they've all gone.

About eleven thirty Ollie and Zara got up and he waved to me on his way out. I have a word with Jim to say no stop on, don't think they like it but they didn't argue, so at last there all out and just me Sam and Carl remain, we have a night cap, and when they've gone I empty the till and wend my weary way up to bed, secretly hoping Jack's back on his feet tomorrow!

Chapter 17

Tired as I was I had a restless night, and it would be so easy to turn over and go back to sleep, I have to make the effort as I need to see Jack's OK, so I go through the normal routine, make tea and toast then it's time to visit the invalid....he's awake so I kick the door open and struggle in with a tray....

'How you feeling today Jack, bet you haven't had this much sleep for years!'

'I've had enough Clipper I'm out of here today.' He moans.

'Have your breakfast and maybe a soak'll do you good.'

'How did it go last night?' he asks.

'Busy, nothing for you to worry about we coped, no afters though all out by midnight.'

'Never been known in my gaff.' He laughs.

'First time for everything, I'll sort the takings out with you later.'

'Keep half of whatever we took for bills.' He adds.

'Blimey you better have another bang on the head!' I joke as I make my way back down to the kitchen, I feel really hungry so decide to scramble some eggs with yet more toast, I need sustenance when working the hours I have been lately. Still I should get the rest of today off, if Jack's up to it.

Washing and ironing up to date I think I may go for a walk along the embankment, stretch my legs and all that, may even stop for a hot chocolate and a muffin, now there's a thought. I'm just about to open the bar door when I can hear old Tom's voice coming through the box.

'Hello Tom are you early, or is Jack late opening?'

'He's late Rosie, its half past twelve love.'

'Come on in then Tom and I'll pour you a Guinness before I go out, better check where Jack is as well.'

I pour Toms drink and then run back upstairs to make sure Jacks Ok, there's no sign of him anywhere, I don't remember hearing him go out, but then again I wasn't really listening, guess I'll have to stay with Tom until he gets back......in the bar Tom's let a few more punters in so I'm once again back behind the jump serving, I'm beginning to feel as though I do this in my sleep.

'Where is he the girl, there all saying he wasn't about last night either?' Tom asks.

'He was here a while ago Tom, maybe he's popped out to the shop.'

So while I wait, I serve and listen to the ol' boys chewing the fat, more people come in and the times flying by, it's now one thirty, still no sign of Jack.

'I reckon he's done a runner girl, your too handy being here love.' Tom offers.

I'm starting to feel a tiny bit pissed off, I had been looking forward to my walk and a relaxing evening, as I'm back in the office first thing in the morning, think I'll give Sam a bell.

'Rosie you should close, he should have told you he was going out, and he's taking the piss Hun.' Sam exclaims.

'I'll have to wait until Toms had enough then I'll close, the only thing that worries me, has he gone out and gone dizzy or bumped into something, not sure what to think, it's out of character even for Jack.'

'Could be, but even so you can't run the pub single handed, we've got a big week at work starting tomorrow.'

'If he's not back by tonight I'll ring Bill in Spain, it's his name on the licence after all.'

'Good idea Rosie, don't you open tonight anyway, you need a break, Nan's just yelled out telling you to come round for your dinner, please Rosie we'd love you to.' Sam urges.

'I'll ring you back when I've spoken to Bill, tell Ann for me, thank you babe.'

I manage to close the pub doors at two thirty, much to the annoyance of some of the regulars, still no sign of Jack, so time to ring Bill to see what his take is on the situation.

After a long chat with Bill, he's promised to ring me back tonight to see if Jack has returned. We've both tried his mobile several times but it just goes over to answer phone, Bill told me not to open tonight, I wasn't going to anyway, I have a busy day at work tomorrow and I need my sleep. I rang Sam back and decided to go to Ann's for a lovely roast dinner, I don't think me sitting around the pub is going to make Jack return any faster. Of course if he doesn't show tonight then I'll have to do all the normal checks with the hospitals, the police won't do anything until he's been missing for twenty four hours, and knowing Jack as I do he wouldn't thank me for calling them. So without further musing on the subject I start my short walk round to Ann's.

'Hello Ann it's so nice to see you, been far too long.' I say as I give her a warm hug.

'Lovely to see you too Rosie, I hope your hungry girl.'

'Always hungry when I come for one of your roast dinners Ann.'

'Hi Rosie, any more news?' Sam asks.

'No nothing Hun can't think where he is.' I reply as I go through into the dinning room. 'Hi Carl how are you? By the way thanks for all your help last night.'

'No probs Rosie I enjoyed it.'

'Glass of wine Rosie? Sam offers.

'Mm yes please, looking forward to this.' I hold my glass out for Sam to fill.

Ann's bringing lots of steaming dishes in and the aroma is so yummy, it's been so long since I've enjoyed one of Ann's meals, she really is a fabulous cook, her gravy is second to none!

'Dig in everyone, there's more in the kitchen, I don't want any left over's!'

'Do you know this is the first time I've been able to relax for ages.' I add.

'You're doing far too much Rosie, and now Jack's gone walkabouts, it's put even more pressure on you love.' Ann suggests.

'I've phoned Bill and he's going to ring me tonight to see if Jack's returned.

'He needs to get himself over here girl, at the end of the day the pubs in his name.'

'I'll help you Rosie if he's not back by tomorrow.' Sam chips in.

'I'm hoping he will be back love, as we've got enough on our plate in the office.'

'Too right you girls have your new look starting this week, I'll be so glad to see you in your own place Rosie, because your staying in the pub it's making you too bloomin handy.' Ann says.

'Are you looking for somewhere to rent then Rosie?' Carl inquires.

'No Carl I'm saving for a deposit, I'd like to buy a tiny flat, I say tiny as that's about all I'll be able to afford.'

'Yeah you're right the property prices have rocketed.' He replies.

The company and the meal were so enjoyable, I feel so lucky to have such brilliant friends, I made my way back to the pub about nine thirty, hoping for an early night. There was still no sign of Jack, now this is worrying, Bill rang at ten o'clock, I felt it best to be honest about my situation with work, I had to put him in the picture, I couldn't have him thinking I was free to run the pub and take full responsibility. Although he's not happy about it, if Jack doesn't appear by the time I leave for work, he wants me to send him a text and then he'll arrange a flight over. So with that organised I make my way up to bed....I'm now feeling more than a little worried about Jack's where abouts!

Chapter 18

Monday morning and a mish mash of issues are buzzing through my head, so with out any further deliberation I make a conscious effort to face the day ahead, first to check and see if Jack has returned, as I'd left his bedroom door open last night I had my answer straight away, so now to send Bill a text, breakfast and the office, as a busy day looms.

'Morning Rosie long time no see, your looking gorgeous as usual.' Mike our second security guy greats me. 'These were delivered for you earlier.' He hands me a rather large oblong box.

'Hi Mike I thought you always worked nights.'

'We've swopped over for a while, the nights get a bit gruelling after a time, and Gerry fancied a change as well.' He adds.

'Did you see who left the parcel Mike?'

'No sorry girl I found them on the side.'

'Ok cheers catch you later.'

Looks like I'm first in this morning, I tear the paper from the box and find a large box of Thornton's chocolates, no card, so once again it leaves me guessing as to who's sent them, Oh well me and Sam will enjoy them that's for sure. I start to undo my mail, when my mobile signals a text from Bill saying he can't get a flight until early tomorrow morning. That's not good I was hoping he'd arrive today, now I feel obliged to make all the normal checks about Jack and I guess I'll have to open the bar tonight. On second thoughts I'm going to ask Bill to do the local hospital checks, he doesn't have to work, so immediately I reply to his text mentioning that, my work has to take priority always.

'You've beat me to it Rosie, wow who bought you those yummy chocs?'

'No idea Hun, Mike gave them to me when I arrived, I'm sure we'll make light work of them though, as with the flowers there was no card.'

'I'm beginning to think you may have a stalker Rosie,' Sam laughs 'by the way any news on Jack?'

'Not a thing, plus Bill just sent me a text saying he can't get here until tomorrow, so looks like I'll have to open the bar tonight, truthfully babe I could do without this.'

'I'll come down and help, no way am I leaving you on your own, Carl won't mind he'll come down as well, better to have a guy around.'

'Thanks love much appreciated, lets hope we get this all sorted out by tomorrow, maybe we should put the show off for a week though, just in case, what d'you think?'

'You're probably right, lets make it next Thursday, have you decided which one you want to see?' Sam asks.

'Promise I'll check later Hun.'

The day passed smoothly, which I was very grateful for, the new chef appeared, he was young and fit, which pleased all the youngsters in the main office, apart from Ms Jacob's, who isn't one of the youngsters I hasten to add. There were flashes from cameras every where you looked, Harry trying to get his 'natural' look for the inside back page, in fact everyone was giving the impression they were enjoying the new start!

Me and Sam went out at lunch time, we just grabbed a sandwich and coffee at our local café, then the afternoon was spent sorting through emails and letters as this week we have a double spread to cover. Bill sent me another text to say he'd tried all the local hospitals to no avail, and did I know any of Jacks' friends who may have a clue to where he may be. I replied that if big Jim came in the pub tonight I'd have a word with him, I also explained that I was only going to open between seven and ten pm, as I have preparations for my work in the morning.

When I got back to the Kasbah I had a quick bite to eat, showered and change ready to open up at seven, and as promised Sam and Carl where there on the dot, I'm so grateful for there help. Big Jim came in so I had a quiet word with him, he said he'd make a couple of calls, personally I'm wondering if Jack could have gone out in search of one of his substances, being as he'd had a day in bed, who knows. The regulars have started asking questions about Jack and we're trying to play it down as much as we can, mainly by ignoring the questions. While Sam and Carl where in the bar I went down to the cellar to check stock for barrels, then made a list of what we needed for top shelf, I won't have much time to do all this, Bill can take over tomorrow. There's a pile of mail I need to look through when I get time, hopefully some response from my letters I mailed to creditors last week. Depending on what happens tomorrow I'm going to keep chipping away at the debts, Bill has nothing to do with this side of the business, however I'll explain what I'm trying to do to sort things out. Sam and Carl left just after ten, making sure I was safely locked in and promising I would contact them if I needed anything, what would I do without Sam!

As I was making my way up to bed I heard the squawk box kick into action, no way did I intend to open the door, however as all the bar lights were out I listened to the person speaking, a woman's voice asking for Jack, she sounded stressed and was using expletives, maybe someone after a fix....none of my business so I carried on up the stairs.

Lying in bed, hoping that sleep would overtake me, I re-collect my thoughts of the past year, how my life has changed, I began the year as a very unhappily married woman (not for the first time as you know), now at this very moment in time I'm sleeping in this back street pub, alone and wondering what tomorrow is going to bring, I start considering the 'what if's,' for instance, what if something unthinkable has happened to Jack, what if (after Saturday nights fiasco) there are people out to get Jack, I have no idea how deep Jack's problems go, am I really safe living here? They say your worst thoughts come at night, and for some reason, easy going ol' Rosie Budd is just a wee bit afraid.......Not that I'm in the least bit cold, I pull the duvet over my head to block out the world....just for tonight anyway!

After a restless night, my thoughts go straight to Jack once again (this has to be worse than being married)! So without a second thought I run up the stairs to check if he's returned, no his room is still the same as the last time I looked. Bill's flight is due in at nine this morning, fortunately he has a set of keys, I'm so grateful for that as I can't afford to be late into work. I decide to leave him a note bringing him up to date with last night and what time I should be back to the pub. He has my number so he can reach me throughout the day if need be.

'Morning Rosie, you're popular there's another parcel for you.' Mick conveys.

'Hi Mick, who left this one?' I ask.

'No idea, it was on the reception desk.' He offers.

'Thanks anyway.' I mutter as I go through the swing doors into the main office, I wonder who is sending these gifts, I mean I've had the odd bunch of flowers in the past, but not a continual supply of goodies, Oh well far more pressing things to think about at the moment.

In my office I put the parcel on the desk and open my mail, we're so lucky in the City we have early deliveries, then computer bursts into life, so it's all systems go.

'Good morning Rosie, Harry pops his head round the door, have a peak at this, tell me what you think.'

'Morning Harry sounds intriguing.' I reply as I take the envelope from him.

'Wow! They look OK, in fact I'll go so far as to say classy, is that really me?' I jest as I scan the pictures.

'Just the job, if you're OK with it I'll get that one onto this week's page.' He offers.

'Fine, how are the 'off the cuff' ones coming along, I'd say you're quite enjoying this photography lark.'

'I think the new pictures will enhance our new look, new hobby for me to, don't you think, another David Bailey in the making?' He laughs.

'I can't wait to see this first copy.'

'I'll show you the proof soon as.' He says as he goes through the door.

'Gosh Rosie your about early again, you OK?' Sam asks.

'I'm alright babe, didn't sleep well though, be glad when this is all sorted out.'

'I take it no further news then Hun?'

'After you and Carl left last night some woman was shouting through the 'box' for Jack, I ignored it; she was probably after a fix or shag!' We both giggle.

'What are you like, hey is this what I think it is, another gift?' Sam picks the small box up.

'Yeah Mick handed it to me this morning, open it if you like babe, no idea what it is or who it's from.'

'Oh My God, It's only a bottle of your favourite Ralph Lauren perfume, someone's got the hots for you Hun!'

'That's a bit spooky; put it in a draw for now love, my brain hasn't got room for any more issues.' I add.

Bill sends me a text to say he's at the Kasbah, and is going to continue ringing round, he's not going to tell Tom, as it would upset him, so any news he'll contact me.

The rest of the day goes through uneventfully, and no further calls from Bill, so I can only assume everything is the same. I feel obliged to ask Bill if he would like me to pick up a pizza on the way back, as we both have to eat. So on the way back I call into Pizza Hut which is just round the corner from the pub....as I walk the short distance to the Kasbah, carrying two pizzas, I wonder what will unfold during the evening.....I guess only time will tell.

Chapter 19

'Hello Rosie thanks for getting us something to eat, how are you love?' Bill greets me with a hug.

'I'll just be so pleased when this mystery with Jack is solved, any more news?' I enquire.

'Nothing so far, although I've left my number and Jacks description with everyone I've spoken to, anyway let me pour you a drink then we can eat, and you can tell me about Saturday nights events girl.'

'I'll grab a couple of plates, we can sit down here, and then I'll put you in the picture.'

We ate our pizzas as I relayed all the events of Friday night to Bill, then continued into Saturday morning after I returned from the cash and carry, it's only fair to say here that Bill and Jack appear to be complete opposites, although both good natured and kind, that's where the similarities end. Bill and Lena have been married for many years, they retired to Spain some time ago, they're life style is 'normal' something you can't acquaint to Jacks. It's my estimation that Bill holds the licence of the Kasbah in his name as he attempts to keep Jack on the straight and narrow, I have an uncanny feeling this episode may change his mind completely. He's asked about the 'book' and the debts; again I believe he has the right to know, as at the end of the day, his name is above the door in black and white.

'I'm doing my best with the books Bill, however until I moved in they were non existent, I'm keeping them on a daily basis now, although without till receipts makes it difficult, plus without a bank account isn't helping, Jack has been giving me cash so as I explained earlier I'm trying to negotiate a way of paying off the important outstanding ones first, it's going to be a long road though.'

'He's lucky he's got you here Rosie, I had no idea it was this bad.'

'I won't always be around Bill, this is temporary, as I have a career that I enjoy, as you know I'm saving for my own place, having said that I'll always help him as much as I can.'

'He's a force to be reckoned with girl, that's for sure!' Bills mobile suddenly bursts into life, and I get to hear one side of the conversation.

'Yes silvery white.....about five ten or eleven....not really....glasses....no idea no one saw him leave....could have been through Saturday night or...yeah through the night, or early Sunday morning if you know what I mean...we're not sure...as I said before he's my younger brother Jack Reed....fifty five...OK I'll come straight away...yes OK, thanks Bye.'

'Oh My God Bill!'

'It's University College Hospital, evidently a guy was found collapsed on the platform at Kings Cross Station earlier today, he's in a bad way, they want me to go and check him out, as he has no ID, only thing in his pockets is a bunch of keys.'

'Bu..but he's alive Bill?'

'That's what they're saying girl.'

'You gonna take Jack's car, I'm sure the keys are still in the kitchen where I left them?'

'No I'll get a sherbert girl, you gonna be OK?'

'Yeah I'll open up for a while to take my mind off things, let me know Bill?'

'Soon as Rosie.' He offers as he rushes out of the side door.

My first instinct is to ring Sam, who immediately says she's on her way over, so I have a quick tidy up, nip upstairs and change out of my work clothes, I'm trying not to think the worse, must think positive!

When Sam arrives I relay the story so far and we chat constantly about all the 'what ifs' as you do, open the bar up and then plump for a game of pool to while the time away, there's a few of the old guys in for a game of darts, luckily no one has asked for Jack. About an hour or more later on my mobile kicks in and it's Bill, I take a deep breath....

'It's him Rosie, he's in a mess, and he's come round although he has no idea where he is, I'll stay and see the doc and head back later, so I'll tell all when I get back.'

'Thanks Bill, just so glad he's alive.'

I think Sam got the gist of that conversation.

'Wonder where he's been Rosie, sounds like someone may have got to him, trouble is with Jack we have no idea what he's involved in....drugs yeah, but to what degree?'

'I'm finding it all a bit scary Sam, I just wish he'd stay on the straight and narrow, I had a chat with Bill earlier, maybe he'll decide to stay for a while and try to sort him out.' I suggest.

'He needs it Rosie or he'll end up inside again, or even worse, then the Kasbah will be no more!'

'Thing is love Bill could make up his mind to relinquish the licence, then he'd be stuffed anyway!'

'I know you'll help Bill until Jack is back and able to work Rosie, I'll tell him I will as well, then what d'you think to us all sitting down having a chat?'

'Of course we'll help love, though our jobs at 'Chic' are our top priority, as an after thought I hope Penny Lee doesn't ever get wind of all this, I mean she has a job to speak to me now, she'd definitely disown me!'

We both attempt a giggle, and look towards the door together as Bill lets himself in. The old guys have left so the pubs empty, best to keep it that way I muse.

'Let's get a drink girls and I'll bring you up to date.' Bill suggests.

'The doctor seems to think Jack's taken some kind of over dose, they are performing multiple tests on him, much to his annoyance, so we could know by tomorrow what the outcome is. At first he hadn't got a clue where he was and whether he remembers or not, he didn't mention where he'd been since leaving here, we assume the early hours of Sunday morning. In fact he didn't even know what day it was, his eye is very swollen and black, he also has cuts and bruises on other parts of his body, apart from complaining, he's not giving anything away as to his whereabouts. He may have said more if I'd been on my own with him, who knows, I'll go over during the daytime tomorrow and try to glean information from him.'

'What if he signs himself out?' I ask.

'Rosie love he's not in a fit state, I doubt he'd be able to walk, if he has any other injuries we won't know until the tests are completed, they've put him in a side ward, and they're keeping there eye on him.'

'So what will you do Bill?' Sam asks.

'I'll stay put for at least a week, I think we should all get our heads together, time to face facts.'

'He does play his cards close to his chest Bill, I mean we have nothing to do with the substances that fly around here, and to be fair Jack never speaks about them, how involved he is with all of this we don't know, all we do is serve behind the bar, as I explained I help out with stock and am trying to do the books, that's in lieu of my rent though.'

'Let's wait for tomorrow's verdict and we'll take it from there.'

'By the way Bill I've made the small bed up for you opposite Jacks room.'

'Cheers Rosie, I'll get you a cab Sam, you two must be nakerd!'

After saying goodnight to Sam and Bill I'm so pleased to go to bed, at least Jacks alive, maybe not kicking, that's a relief though. I set my alarm for seven, I should sleep tonight knowing there's someone else in the building, it'll all be there in the morning I assure myself so time to escape to my land of dreams......

Chapter 20

My alarm brings me back to reality with a bang and I go through the same routine, did I sign up for all of this, no, haven't I just escaped from a nightmare life, I didn't bargain for this, lets hope after today Bill manages to smooth things down and we can have our amusing Jack back on track!

Through the course of the day Bill informs me that Jack had overdosed on an unmentionable substance (I actually don't wish to know what) it was illegal (well there's a surprise)! He believes that in no way was this an attempt for Jack to commit harry carry and all that, something in his semi conscious state that he was sold to give him a fix (probably at a phenomenal cost). I believe that Bill is probably as confused as the rest of us as to how Jack survives! He has been advised to stay in hospital for a few more days, it's my theory he'll stay there, after Bill's finished talking to him, as without Bill where the hell would he be.

In the evening I have a chat to Bill, he discusses his intentions, namely if Jack tows the line he'll keep the pub open, although this is only if Jack keeps trying to get the pub out of debt, of course with my help.....and that there are no further experiences of this week. So for the next couple of days we muddle along to keep things going, at the weekend me and Sam will work as normal, again providing Jack stays put, so really he doesn't have a choice! We've decided to tell the punters that he's gone away for a few days, apart from big Jim who has informed Bill of Jack's goings on! So they'll be no 'cockaleptic' dancing this weekend.

I've been trying to work out how long it will take me to raise a deposit; the thought of my own little place is a dream. Also I'm looking forward to going to the show with Sam and Carl, I think I need to let my hair down and have some fun. I may have binned the guys but hey there's got to be more to life than working.

I left Bill in the bar tonight and blitzed my room, the kitchen and bathroom, no way am I doing upstairs I'm not the resident scrubber! Later as I chilled out, I got to wondering who was sending me gifts, I hadn't had much time to think about it up until now, no way was it Ollie (shame) I did originally think he may have sent the flowers, as a thank you, now I'm totally perplexed! Is Sam right, could I have a stalker? Then the question is who, for the life of me I can't think of anyone who'd stalk me! I mean I only get to see people in the Kasbah, all I do is serve them, as most of them are away with the fairies.....let's see if anything else arrives, only time will tell. Then my thoughts swing to Penny Lee and Bertie, she hasn't been in touch since she stomped out of the pub on Saturday night, I toyed with the idea of giving her a ring.....do I want my head bitten off tonight...No, think I'll ring Mum and Dad instead.

Deadline day for our new double spread at 'Chic'.... so an early start is essential, to make sure I'm happy with all my replies, Sam took the proofs home to read last night, always good to have her opinion and she's not afraid to throw in her ideas...as they say two heads are better than one. I run down the stairs as quietly as possible trying not to disturb Bill, as I open the door I'm virtually pounced on by a man with a briefcase!

'I'm looking for a Mr William Reed the licensee of these premises.' He growls.

'Rather early don't you think he's still asleep?' I reply.

'Well I need to speak to him today.'

'Then may I suggest you call back a little later, as the day has barely begun, I can assure you he will be here.' With that I pull the door shut and make my way down the road, not turning at his mumbling, whether I've done right or wrong I wasn't going to go and wake Bill up at this early hour, let the guy wait!

Walking through the main door of our offices, Mike is leaning against the huge reception desk, as he sees me he walks over.

'Morning Rosie, you're an early bird, couldn't you sleep?' He enquires.

'Hi Mike, just lots to do today.' I reply as go through the swing doors.

At least he didn't push another gift in my hand, once in my office I lay everything out across the desk to get an impression, I know it's all set out on my computer, but I like to see the real thing! As I glance round I notice Harry is in his office, probably for the same reason as me, it's a big issue for him. All of a sudden my mobile starts to ring, private number, odd at this time of day.

'Hello Rosie Budd.'

No answer, although I'm sure I can hear someone breathing.

'Hello Rosie Budd.'

Still nothing, then the line goes dead, what was that all about, so early as well, maybe a wrong number.....

'Hi Rosie, thought you could do with one of these.' Harry comes in with a steaming mug of coffee.

'Cheers Harry, must admit I gave breakfast a miss this morning, is everything ready?' I ask.

'Firing on all cylinders so far, it's looking good.'

'Great stuff, I'm feeling pretty pleased with my page.' I smile.

'So you should good work.' Harry adds.

'Sam took all the proofs home to read last night, so if I need to make any alterations, I'll do that this morning, you'll have it by lunch time.'

'Great stuff Rosie, I always know I can rely on you, enjoy your coffee.'

The main office is filling up now and Sam comes trundling in, large as life, grinning all over her face, bet I know what she was up to last night.....at least one of us is getting some!

'Have you been here all night Rosie Budd?' She declares.

'Feels like it Hun, so what did you think of the proofs?'

'Fantastic! And only one spelling mistake.' She jokes.

'Smart arse!'

With that Mike appears at my office door holding yet another small gift box, what is going on here.

'Who left this one Mike?' I ask perhaps a little more sharply than I should.

'Just found it on the reception desk love.' He adds.

'Looks like you've got a stalker Rosie.' Sam predicts.

'I wouldn't think so, though I wish I knew where they were coming from.'

'I expect you've got a lot of admirers love.' Mike adds on his way out.

'Yeah right.' Is my quick response.

'Lets see what it is then Hun.'

I push the little parcel towards her, Sam loves opening things, she's once again grinning, and as the box is opened a small grey scruffy teddy bear appears wearing a little red sash saying 'please be mine'......now these teddies are very relevant to me and Sam, as they're not only her favourites, but I've been buying them for her over the years on birthdays and Christmas.

'This is starting to freak me out babe, who is sending this stuff?' I ask.

'I'd say you definitely have got yourself a stalker Rosie, but how do we find out who it is?'

'That as they say honey is the million dollar question.'

We don't mention the 'stalker' any more throughout the morning as we're busy preparing for our deadline. At lunchtime we nip out for a sandwich and I receive a call from Bill to say he's seen the man with the briefcase and he'll explain all later. Then I get another call, the second silent one today, this is becoming a worry.

'If it keeps on Rosie, you'll have to tell the police.' Sam suggests.

'I know love, but I'd rather not involve them because of where I'm living, address and all that, Jack likes the old bill as far away from his gaff as possible!'

'Well lets make a note of what's happening Hun, just in case.' With that Sam starts making notes in my diary with a bright pink pen, gifts and now calls.

The phone calls as well as my perfume are very baffling; our mobile numbers are listed at work, no point in trying to work it out, as you know by the Diane Jacobs incident, these days' people can find out anything about you, if they put themselves out.

As I'm leaving the office I'm extremely surprised to see Bertie waiting outside.

'Hello Rosie, I really hope you don't mind me waiting for you. Could you spare a few minutes for a chat?'

'Of course love, why don't we hop on the bus and we can call in the Castle for a drink, it's on our way home.'

The bus was packed so we didn't continue our conversation as we were standing up, it was far more essential to concentrate on holding on, as we approached the stop near the Castle, I nodded to Bertie, as maybe he didn't know where the pub was. As we went into the main bar I said my hellos to some of the locals, Bertie bought us a drink, then we found a table in a remote corner of the bar, fortunately it wasn't busy anyway.

'Rosie I do apologise for encroaching on your privacy, I'm at a lost end, I'm not really sure what to do next.'

'No problem Bertie, any time love, now why don't you tell me what's troubling you?'

'It's Penny Lee, I just don't seem to do anything right, she never appears to be happy, therefore I'm optimistic that you may be able to advise me as to where I'm going wrong, as this issue has now become of great concern to me.'

Poor dear Bertie I could have almost spoken the words for him.

'I'm so sorry this is obviously upsetting you so much, Penny Lee takes after her father, she is a very strong character, assuming and ambitious, you've already had experience of how she is with me Bertie, fortunately I can cope with her attitude, presumably because I don't have to live with her. Bertie I feel I need to be honest with you here, you are a very caring considerate person, with a gentle nature, Penny Lee needs a character that is stronger than her, someone who'll challenge her 'take her on' so to speak, sadly that's not you Bertie, sorry as I am to say it, she would walk all over you. I'm sure she cares about you, regrettably that will never make her happy; because you will give in to her every wish I'm sure. I love Penny Lee to bits, however I stand up to her, as she would love nothing better than to control me as well, I won't allow that to happen, hence I stay in the back ground, you've probably also noticed I don't rise to her, I let most of what she says go over my head so to speak. You'll also have noticed that she doesn't treat her father the same way, as there is no way he would allow it.'

'I do understand what your saying Rosie, and I'm very grateful, I do love Penny Lee, however I realise now, more than ever why I'll never be able to make her happy.'

'Maybe Bertie it's a blessing in disguise that we've had this chat, for both of your sakes and your future happiness.'

'I'm sure your right, now I have to do the decent thing, which I'm truly going to find very difficult.'

'It is OK if you mention we've spoken, I think you realise I don't hide behind Penny Lee, she'll probably rant and rave for a while, but that's far better than a future of misery for you both.'

We both stand up and I give Bertie a hug, I'll probably never see him again, which is a shame, as he'll make someone a lovely husband, just not my daughter.

When I get back to the Kasbah I have a chat with Bill about the debt collector, plus an update on Jack, who needless to say has been moaning non stop, which tells me he's getting better. Bills going to open tonight and I'm attacking the dreaded books once again, he won't be needed to work much tomorrow night as both me and Sam will be on, although it'll be good for him to be around.

'Have you eaten Bill, I can nip round for fish and chips if you fancy?'

'That sounds good girl if you don't mind, then get yourself out of this bar, you're gonna be here all weekend.' He suggests.

With that I nip round to the chippy, we have a drink with our meal and then I make a hasty retreat upstairs, books then bed.

About nine o'clock my mobile bursts into life and as I secretly expected it's my daughter.

'So Mother I see you've been interfering again, filling Bertram's head with rubbish!'

I pressed my phone onto loudspeaker and let her rant, and she did it went on for a while, better out than in I thought, when I felt she'd had her say, I attempted a few lucid words.

'Pen I'm sure you'll thank me for this in the not too distant future.'

No not the right thing to say obviously, as once again she goes off on a tangent, best just leave it as any minute she'll end the call (hopefully, as I could do without this tonight). Mm I know her to well....that's it and once again I'm in the dog house!

Within minutes my phone kicks in once again....please not round blooming two!

No silence...another one of those freaky breathing ones, that's three today, that does it, when I get into bed my phone is going off, don't like doing it, but I don't intend putting up with more of these tonight. I decide to sit at the kitchen table to do the books and leave my mobile in the bedroom, I realise I'm going to have to try and find out who's stalking me. I know who I wish it was, behave woman.......

I finished working on the books just before ten, so I decided to google the theatre shows....three jump out at me Dirty Dancing (how sadly Patrick Swayze is missed) The Body Guard, another favourite of mine, or Wicked which they assure is not only for kids (according to my daughter I've never grown up anyway)! I'll tell Sam and let her choose, for me it'll be a delightful night out even if I do feel a bit (round...green...and hairy)! I knew you'd catch on in the end!

Bed at last and I find myself reflecting on the year so far.....as I muse, I recall escaping my disastrous marriage, which was the prominent and unmistakable turning point in my life....another era began. In June we had the Queens Jubilee celebrations, the day of the amazing Flotilla on the Thames it rained and was extremely chilly, and the crowds still emerged in their thousands, takes more than a cold rainy day to impede Londoners from a day of pomp and circumstance! A few days later I was fortunate enough to be invited to Founders Day at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the morning parade missed the rain, during the afternoon a cloud appeared to burst, however it didn't halt the celebrations as we were all under cover and able to enjoy some fabulous entertainment, especially the Chelsea Pensioners! As a city we were then favoured by holding the Olympics, which proved to be amazing, followed within a couple of weeks by the equally amazing Paralympics, team GB done us all proud as a Nation! So life has been busy, 'Chic' magazine benefited from all of these fabulous events, as did many others. Without warning I'm aroused from my pleasant reverie by the ominous sound of a text message...now what? Just two words and a kiss 'One day x'....I immediately check the number, which to me is unknown....what is going on here! With the phone switched to silent I settle down to sleep, wondering what tomorrow will bring....

Chapter 21

Friday morning, I decide on another early start, I feel a flush of excitement about the new edition of our magazine, marred only by this suspected 'stalker, for the life of me I can't think of anyone who'd want to stalk me, but, there are a lot of weirdo's roaming our streets! I've already met Mr Perfect/Player, Mr Boring/Control Freak/ Mr Bone Idle Bulshitter so why not have a Mr Stalker....come on you wanker show yourself! No hope of a Mr Right is there? No silly me he's just a figment of my imagination....I can't even start ruling people out as my list of numbers is about as full as a fairies phone book! With all this in mind I head for the office, I expect Harry will have beaten me to it again.

'Good morning Rosie.' Mike greets me as usual.

'Hi Mike, please don't tell me there's another gift, or I'm likely to scream!'

'Is it upsetting you girl?' He asks.

'It's a pretty gutless thing to do, how do I know, he could be a blooming axe murderer or worse!'

'You're a pretty lady probably someone who fancies you Rosie.'

'Well what's wrong with the old fashioned way of asking me out for a drink, and then they'd soon know by my reply!' I suggest.

Harry comes out to greet me when I enter the office.

'Take a look at this Rosie, what do you think?'

'Mm looks Good Harry, straight off the press too.'

'I've been here since five o'clock, had to catch the first one.'

'You'll be asleep by lunch time.' I jest.

'No we're having a glass of bubbly and a few nibbles to celebrate.'

'Cool that sounds more like it, coffee now?' I ask.

'Yes please Rosie, take this copy in with you and have a good look through.'

'By the way, when we have our little celebration, there's a photographer coming in from the Metro to take a group pic.'

'Wow! Fame at last. I laugh. I'd better put some more slap on, just in case he doesn't air brush!'

We laugh, then I shoot over to the coffee machine, no one else has appeared yet, well it's only seven forty am that is. The new magazine is impressive, at least one part of my life is on the right track, if I could only sort Penny Lee out, and of course find my self a very reasonable flat to purchase I'd be well away. My mobile kicks in with a call, please not the stalker again, I don't want today ruined. Well shock horror it's my sister Clara....the older version of Penny Lee, I wonder why she's ringing so early?

'Rosie, it's Clara, what have you been doing to upset your daughter so much, I had her crying on the phone last night for ages and it's all your fault, so what's going on?'

'Clara. I'm at work at the moment and I haven't got time to explain the circumstances.'

'No that's your trouble you never have time do you, well I know what it's about, and you had no right.'

'Stop right there Clara, I'll ring you at lunch time, although truly it's none of your business, bye for now.' I end the call.

My sister Clara, who the hell she takes after, as it's not our parents, it must be some old Aunty from way back, to say she's staid would be an understatement, the most exciting thing she's ever done in her life is a coach trip to Cleethorpes, her husband (did I mention of thirty three years) is so henpecked he's ready for the oven! As she didn't have kids of her own she loves to criticise my parenting skills (not that I boast about them myself) you see Penny Lee is more like Clara than me....so now I'm in the dog house with both of them, is there any escape from this collar and lead I ask? Mm I think I know the answer to that....a good shag!

The morning went well and the celebratory glass of bubbly or three lightened everyone's mood, except maybe Diane Jacobs, but there's no pleasing some people. The guy from the Metro took a few shots of us all holding our glasses, full of course, and assures he'll have it published on the front page! Sam was shocked when I showed her my mystery text message, bless she's noting it all down. I've had my phone on silent since Clara's call, interruptions I don't need today, plus so far no more gifts, perhaps he's running out of the readies!

There's no karaoke booked for tonight at the Kasbah, although we're expecting it to be busy, all the Ming Mongs will be missing Jack, mostly for their supply of weed or the likes, no point in tapping Bill up, or they could end up pashing the pavement!

On my way home I give Clara a ring back, purely out of politeness (see I can be nice) she rants some more, which I'm used to and promptly informs me that she's coming to London on Sunday to try and placate my daughter, and wants me to be there....Whoopee! How could I miss that!

When I arrive back at the pub, Bill looks as though he's had a trying day so I offer to rustle up some food, personally I'm sure he's had enough of this pub, it's not his line of business and he's doubtless missing Lena, they're a very close couple, he certainly wouldn't want her to get involved in a place like this, which may seem odd being as his name is above the door. While me and Bill are eating I decide to tell him about my 'stalker'....I' m not sure how to deal with it as I don't want to involve the police, mainly because of where I'm living and Jack always says once the cops have been called to a pub for what ever reason, there never off your back. Bill seems as baffled as me; however he says if it keeps on through next week I should speak to someone, he says I shouldn't neglect my safety for Jack's sake. I make him right actually.

Sam arrived early and came up for a natter while I was getting changed, I made her laugh over Clara, I don't think she's ever met her, possibly because London's further than Cleethorpes! I'm supposed to be meeting them at lunchtime in Penny Lees flat, to ensure I don't let myself down I fully intend to dress accordingly! Ha ha!

The evening was mad busy as expected, with everyone asking about Jack, so we said he was in Spain for a few days, he's due back tomorrow, however Bill intends to stay until Monday as he wants to sort things out before he leaves. Bill won't have the music up as loud as Jack; he thinks the Kasbah on a Friday night is like a scene from Benidorm, without the pool of course! The brunettes been doing her best to come onto Bill, he's not amused, though we are; he's like a fish out of water in this gaff! Even though he's older than Jack he's a smart well turned out guy and he's getting lots of female attention that he doesn't want! I keep looking around to see if there's anyone at all that could possibly be my stalker, I have to be honest as most of these Muppets have the IQ of a pork pie, how the hell would they know how to stalk! I receive another two calls through the course of the evening; Sam grabbed my phone on the second one and hurled a few choice expletives to the silent ear. No sign of Ollie, a girl can dream you know! So by midnight Bill had ushered them all on there way, much to the visible annoyance of Jack's mob of hangers on. So along with Carl, Bill poured us all a drink and at last we could relax. Bill informed us that he was collecting Jack in the morning and I'd promised to do a cash and carry run so we were well stocked.

'Anyone mind if I say goodnight it's been a long day, I've been up since six.' I say

'No girl you get your head down.' Bill adds.

Sam gives me a hug and I ruffle Carl's hair as I head upstairs.

'She's a real trooper is Rosie, Bill declares, Jacks so lucky to have 'er here.'

'She's the same in the office Bill always working, but I know she's worried about this stalker, I'm keeping a note of everything just in case she has to tell the old bill.' Sam explains.

'You got any idea who it could be girl?' Bill asks.

'Not really, see when Rosie last got divorced she changed her mobile number, so her ex couldn't bother her any more, so apart from work, the only people who have her new number is close friends and family, that's what's puzzling me.'

'What about work, anyone there?' Bill suggests.

'Apart from our editor Harry and a couple of security guys, the only other males are young ones in the main office, anyone working in the publishing and printing area don't have access to our numbers.'

'What about this Harry guy is he kosher?'

'Yeah he's great I could never see Harry doing something like that, he's known Rosie for years, there good mates, who ever is stalking her isn't short of a few bob though, as some of the gifts have cost a bit.'

'You never know girl, things change in people's lives and they do the weirdest things.'

'She could do without it all Bill, she's got enough on her plate with her daughter, d'you know if I was Penny Lee I'd think I was the luckiest girl alive to have a mum like Rosie.' Sam admonishes.

'Why what's her problem Sam?'

'How long have you got, in a nut shell she disagrees with everything Rosie says or does.'

'What's your take on it all Carl?' Bill adds.

'I've only met Penny Lee a couple of times Bill and she's got attitude!' He replies.

'You two fancy a top up?' Bill asks.

'No think we'll call it a day thanks Bill I've got a job on in the morning.' Carl adds.

'Ok then both see you tomorrow, thanks' for tonight Sam love.'

Chapter 22

The alarm plays its annoying little tune in my ear, telling me there's no chance of a lie in.....again. As I slowly recall what day it is, I remember my trip to cash and carry is on the cards so I need to get a wriggle on as they're only open half day. Shower and coffee, grab the car keys and I'm on my way, they open at eight and with luck I should be one of the first at the door. After discussing it with Bill it was decided I get as much stock as possible so Jack won't have to worry for a few days, as believe me he's on his own through next week.

Back at the Kasbah, Bills kept to his word and helps unload the car and carries all the heavy stuff in, we stack it all away between us, the barrels were delivered while I was out so we're up and running.

'Get your coat on girl I'm taking you out for a late breakfast.' Bill declares.

'Cheers Bill I won't say no to that.'

We walk round onto the main street as there's a decent little café where you get a full English for a fiver and as much tea as you can drink!

'What time you picking Jack up?' I ask.

'Soon as we get back love, you have a break girl you do far too much.'

'I'll catch up with the washing, and a few chores, thanks for this Bill I enjoyed it.'

Later as I was doing my ironing, I heard the door bang downstairs and low and behold Jacks dulcet tones were ringing around the Kasbah once more, so I nip down to see what he has to say for himself.

'Hello girlfriend!' Jack says with a grin.

'Oh the wanderer returns.' I add. 'It's good to see you back in one piece!'

'Thanks Clipper for holding the fort, what would I do without you girl?'

'You'd have been totally fucked!' Bill adds.

As I could feel a slight atmosphere building between the two brothers, I decide to try and placate the situation.

'Who's for a coffee?' I ask hopefully.

'Yeah thanks babe they say in unison.'

After the coffee break I think I should leave the two of them together to clear the air so to speak, as I know Bill is going to set some rules out over the licence, and who can blame him, there's a lot at stake, Jack 'when off his head' is a liability, now he's not going to turn into the Ark Angel over night....but with luck it'll make him realise if he doesn't toe the line so to speak, he could end up 'out on his arse' homeless and jobless!

'Coffees up guys, then I need to get on with my chores.' I jest.

'What you up to tomorrow lunch girlfriend, only I wanted to take Bill out for lunch?'

'You really are a wanker! That girls given up the past week and more for you and the last thing I want is to go out for a meal!' Bill endorses angrily'

'I couldn't do it anyway Jack I've got an appointment with two irate women!'

For once in his life Jack stays muted, probably a good idea, as Bill looks as though he may just blow a gasket.

'Time you had a proper day off any way love.' Bill adds.

'Ok time I got on, see you later guys.' I make a hasty retreat as I feel things could get ugly!

When Sam arrived for work I filled her in with the events of the day so far, the evening came across as question time, all aimed at Jack, who I noticed constantly tapped the side of his nose, had to be one up on saying 'fuck off you nosy bastard!' as the last thing the Kasbah needed tonight was anyone kicking off! Bill had his eagle eye on Jack throughout the evening, the Sambuca bottle stayed on the shelf, unopened, and the only alcohol I noticed pass Jack's lips was a couple of bottles of becks, I can almost hear Jack's liver screaming.....in horror 'what's with the becks you Muppet?'

I can't say I was sorry to see the end of the evening, the atmosphere had been a bit delicate shall we say...too many strange looks going on, that you couldn't relax, the brunette was in again seeking the attention of either of the brothers, why she doesn't wear a t-shirt with 'Leg over Lady' in bold letters I'll never no, OK so that's a bit mild but I'm sure you know what I mean! As mentioned before, we rarely see one of Jack's bed buddies, however tonight I've heard a whisper that he now 'bats for both sides!' I draw the line there; please don't tell me any more, as you know I have a vivid imagination!

Bill has the bar shut by midnight, to an uproar of 'what the fucks going on in this gaff?' I give Sam and Carl a hug, shout my goodbyes to the brothers and make a hasty retreat, straight up the stairs to the solace of my bedroom! As I slip between the sheets I plan on my outfit for my visit tomorrow.......

~

There's no one to be seen as I leave the Kasbah, if anyone's' done a bunk this weekend it's not my problem, I now have to face Penny Lee and Clara......mm scary! I jump on a bus, too far to walk as Pen lives across the water where the property's a tad less expensive.

I brace myself before I ring her door bell, she lives on the third floor in a block of flats, admittedly the flat is small, though adequate, especially in London, this block is well cared for and they do have a caretaker on site.

Penny Lee has a well paid job, which enables her to cover the mortgage, she's a clerical assistant at the Old Bailey, the position suits Penny Lee as she takes her work seriously, as she does everything in her life.

I'm not sure if Clara will have arrived yet, she was travelling by train, and it'll be a cheap day return if I know her....Oh well here goes. As my finger hits the buzzer I can feel my heart thumbing like a bongo drum! Penny Lee on her own is a handful; accompanied by Clara....it'll be the beginning of World War Three! With me as the target!

'Oh you have come then.' My daughter greets me.

'Of course love I never let you down.'

Oops! Not the best thing to say, as according to her that's all I ever do.....foot in gob again Rosie!

I try again. Has Clara arrived?'

'I thought I heard my name mentioned.....what on earth are you wearing!?'

'Oh I thought you said fancy dress Pen.' I jest.

Mm that went down like a lead balloon, I have my bright pink skinny jeans on and a purple top, with a red cardigan (borrowed from Ann) thrown casually round my shoulders...Ok so I did get a few strange looks on the bus, however it was worth it to see the response I'm getting now!

'It's a wonder you still have a job if you dress like that!' Clara affirms.

'This is my chill out gear for the weekend.'

I must add here chill out means when it's cold to Clara.

'You look ridiculous, a woman of your age!'

I look ridiculous? That's good coming from Clara as her fashion guru's range from Hilda Ogden and Nora Batty, with an occasional swing towards a two piece (like she's wearing today) from Mrs T's collection. At my age! How dare she forties are the new thirties don't you know!

'My Mother, Aunt Clara lives and works in a complete low life den of iniquity, with a man who is an ex criminal, in fact everything about him and his business is illegal and immoral.'

'Can I correct one of the points you made Pen, I don't live with him I rent a room in his establishment.'

'And that makes a difference does it, the depths you've sunk to Rosie Budd, or whatever you call yourself these days.' Clara growls.

'Oh let me put you straight there Clara I've always been Rosie Budd, never took any of my husbands names.' I gloat.

'You're a disgrace to the family, and why you've had to interfere in your daughters life beats me, with your morals.'

'Would you like me to explain in a few simple words?' I offer.

'Oh we can't wait for this.' Penny Lee exclaims.

'Firstly Bertie came to me, saying he couldn't seem to do anything right and you were never happy Pen, I spoke truthfully to him, saying you need some one of a stronger character, more challenging, lets face it Pen you'd have made mincemeat of poor Bertie, controlled his life and that girl isn't fair.'

'What would you know about fair!' they say in unison.

'Fair to me is when you don't get on, get out!' I offer.

''I've been wed to Alfred for thirty three years so I know all about a good marriage, we get along fine.' Clara brags.

'Yes of course you do Clara, your happy enough, you tell Alfred to jump and the poor sod says how high!'

'How dare you, Alfred wouldn't let you say a word against me?' She chides.

'No of course he wouldn't, it's not worth the agro, and he's probably down the pub now making hay, or better still hoping your trains late back.' I add.

I actually meant to say hoping you don't come back!

'You are a disgrace, no wonder your daughter turned to me.'

'Well it's a good job we're not all alike, what a boring world that'd be, I still say that you'll thank me in the future Pen, when you meet someone suited to your character.'

'Bertram had a well paid job and favourable prospects; we would have been able to buy a property in an up market area, now those hopes are shattered.'

'That's the crux of it isn't it Pen, the salary the house, not the loss of Bertie, but what came with him.'

'Well the girl's right in thinking of her future, no point in being like you marrying with your eyes, look how they all turned out.'

'I'll give you that Clara my marriages were crap, however I knew when to call it a day, no one had to live through thirty plus years of drudgery and the likes.... time I went, I'm sure you two have lots to talk about.'

'Yes it probably is time you went Rosie, before I say something untoward, you'd try the patience of a saint.'

'Well there are no saints round her eh Clara?'

'I'll speak to you in the week Pen, safe journey home Clara bye for now.' I utter as I head for the front door.

As the door slams behind me without a bye or leave, I have to smile or I'd cry, I can't be like them, I'll always be a misfit, black sheep or whatever they aspire to, Oh well nobody's perfect and all that.....so on reflection I decide to go for a walk and clear my head, and the mobiles staying on silent, reminders of my stalker I don't need right now.....in fact I may call in the Castle for a chat, why not...I'm up for that!

Chapter 23

'Hi babe thought I'd call round to se if you fancied going out for a bit?' Carl asks.

'A bit of what?' Sam laughs.

'Trust you to lower the tone.'

'I don't fancy going out, but you might fancy coming in, Nan's out with her friend, they've gone shopping to Westfield, she won't be back for ages.'

'What we waiting for.' He laughs.

'Now your indoors you've got two choices, Sam suggests, tea and biscuits or you can wash my back in the bath?'

'Mm, that's a tricky one, he grins, how about both?'

With that Sam runs up the stairs with Carl on her heels, she opens her bedroom door....and that's as far as she gets. As they engage in a lingering kiss, he gently pushes her onto the bed, closing the door with his foot. Sam gasps as Carl eases her t-shirt over her head at the same time kissing her breasts, his hand slides up her skirt and he tenderly strokes her inner thighs. She struggles with the zip on his jeans....he swiftly removes them and within seconds they're both naked, caressing each other until they are lost in the passion....as he enters her she pulls him closer with her legs, they move sensually together towards there erotic climax!

As his breath begins to steady Carl whispers, 'that's the first time on your bed with no one else in the house; I wish it could always be like this.'

'Mm me too that was pretty steamy...tea and biscuits now?' She laughs.

'Bath first.' He suggests.

'We both know how that'll end.'

'OK tea and biscuits it is then.' Carl decides.

'Yeah right...shall I turn the taps on or will you?'

~

As it goes I rather enjoyed yesterday, apart from my meeting with the two perilous persons, namely sister and daughter, I had a leisurely walk, ending up at the Castle where I had a catch up with some old friends, change of scenery was what I needed. When I got back to the Kasbah I didn't see either of the men, so I made myself an omelette and relaxed on my bed with a DVD....A new week now, my column is my first concern, followed by the stalker issue, so another early start is in order. Just as I'm about to open the side door, I hear Bill call me.

'Rosie love, I wanted to see you before I go my flights at lunch time.'

'Sorry Bill it slipped my mind, sorry you've had to stay over so long, I expect Lena can't wait to have you back home.'

'You're right there love, strange as it may seem we tend to do most things together.'

'I believe that's great if it suits you both.'

'Now Rosie, any problems at all please contact me, I've read Jack the riot act, but you know what he's like when the booze or other concoctions kick in?'

'While I'm here Bill I promise I'll do my best, but you know as well as me he plays those cards close to his chest.'

'That's as maybe girl, but he can't afford to any more, thanks Rosie for all your help it's been great having you around, take care of yourself.'

'Same to you Bill, safe journey home.'

As I walked to the bus stop I thought about Bills wife Lena, this must have been a worry for her, especially as she knows what Jacks like, they are so different those brothers, rather like me and Clara I guess. The bus was packed and I had to stand up, where I get off there's a big gastro pub called 'The Landmark'....I couldn't believe my eyes as I saw Ollie and his brief case going through the front doors.....what does this guy do? I have to find out, and why couldn't my bus have been just a tad earlier!

So once again I'm left wondering, also I'll be thinking about him being next door virtually while I'm working, sadly my office looks over the back of the building! Give me a break someone please!

'Morning Rosie thought I'd beat you to it today.' Sam greets me with a grin.

'Morning babe, I can see you've been up to no good again.'

'How did yesterday go with Pen?' Sam asks.

'I'll fill you in at lunch time, long story, apart from that I had a great day, called in the Castle for a few drinks with the guys, by the way I've just seen Ollie with his briefcase going in the Landmark, I have to find out what he does.'

'We could go in at lunchtime, he could still be there.'

'I doubt it Hun unless he's a barman.' I offer.

'Worth a try, then you can fill me in with all your goss!'

'You're on, by the way Bill's flying back to Spain at lunchtime, so Jack will be on the rampage!'

The morning passed quickly, lots of new mail and emails to sort through, the reviews on our new look at 'Chic' had been very encouraging, Harry was delighted, sales were up, now we're all waiting to see our picture in the Metro, as that should give us a boost also.

At lunchtime as arranged me and Sam went to the Landmark, it's a while since I'd been there and it appears to have been re-furbished to a definite advantage, I eagerly searched around to see any sign of Ollie, although I'm sure he was long gone. The menu was appetising and reasonable, or though some of the items I tend to class as 'a tad cardboard'.....humour me please it's just one of my weird descriptions! We both settled for a rather exotic sandwich and French fries of course, plus a soft drink, as its lunch time. I shared all my gossip with Sam about my meeting at Pen's, which she found highly amusing, although she's aware that it's hurtful to me as well, even though I manage to cover it up. Then I get to hear of Sam and Carl playing hide the sausage, while Ann was shopping, some people get all the luck....there's more goes on in my head than in MY bed! That's for sure. As we were about to head back to the office, Sam decides she wants to use the loo, and insists she'll see me back at work.

The first thing that catches my eye as I walk through my office door is yet another tiny gift box, what is going on? I push it to one side, I'll let Sam open it, I really have got to sort this problem out, I say problem because that's what it's become, and scary, threatening even!

'Not another one Rosie, this is beyond a blooming joke now!' Sam declares as she opens the gift, inside is a tiny silver box containing a silver chain with a silver heart.

'I don't like this any more Hun, we need to put our thinking caps on as to who is sending all this stuff.'

Sam deposits the box in with the other gifts (minus the flowers and the chocolates) as at the time we thought maybe those two were kosher, also we had made very light work of the chocolates!

'I'm going to give this some serious thought tonight babe, there has to be a clue somewhere along the line, you too, if you get a chance.'

'I will Rosie; in fact I'll talk it over with Nan, as she's a wise old bird.'

'Don't be calling her an old bird!' We both manage a giggle.

~

'Thanks for picking me up love.' Bill says as he gives Lena a hug.

'I've missed you Bill, not the same when you're not around, how was your flight?'

'Not bad girl, but am I glad to be back home.'

'Shall we go and have a meal while we're out and you can tell me all the gossip.' Lena suggests.

'Great idea, there's been a lot going on.'

They make there way through the airport, and settle for a quiet little restaurant that they've been in before.

'At least we'll be able to talk in here, let's order first then we can chat.' Lena adds.

They both order an English meal; old habits die hard, even though there in Spain, plus a bottle of Pinot Grigio, time to relax at last.

'So come on love tell me how you've left it with Jack.'

Bill explains the whole scenario to Lena, not missing a trick, they're a close couple and don't have secrets.

'I've more or less implied to him that if anything like this happens again, I'll relinquish the licence, we don't need this bother at our time of life, trouble is with Jack once he's on the 'gear' he's away with the fairies, he towed the line this weekend, only 'cos I was breathing down his neck!'

'I thought you might have closed him down now Bill, what stopped you?'

'Not what Lena but who, young Rosie, she's been brilliant and she's doing her best to sort out all the debts he's built up, she's also trying to keep the books from when she moved in, she's a blessing in disguise, we've already had one writ served from the council, in my bloody name of course!'

'That's all very well Bill but Rosie's not going to be there for good is she?'

'I've thought about that, and I've put Rosie in the picture, if she can keep sorting out the debts, and putting pressure on Jack while she's staying there it'll be better for us all in the end, if she hadn't been there I would have closed him down now, she desperately wants to buy herself a little flat, as the girls got a really good job love, so the bottom line is, when Rosie goes, Jacks up to his neck in it, unless he has a change of heart.'

'He's lucky to have her there, she won't get in any bother will she Bill?'

'No love she's aware of what he's up to, but if you know what I mean, she knows nothing, bit like them three wise monkeys.'

'Can't see him changing Bill, unless he gives up the 'gear' mind you he's not a young man any more, the body will only take so much abuse.'

'Only time will tell girl, at least now Rosie's gonna keep me in the picture, good bit of grub that Lena even though we've been chatting all the time, shall we finish this wine off and get home then.'

'Sounds good to me love.'

Chapter 24

Jack wasn't in the bar when I got back to the Kasbah, although he'd left a bag of money outside my bedroom door, so after I had something to eat, I set about the dreaded books once again, although this evening for me was to really give a lot of thought to my stalking puzzle. I settled down in bed about ten o'clock and watched the BBC news, turned the light out then immediately started to muse over my problem, I considered every angle, surely there has to be a clue somewhere, but for the life of me nothing came to mind, so once again stalemate, and during my effort sleep over took my thoughts......

Instantaneously I'm awake in fact wide a wake and it's three o'clock in the morning, I've got it, of course why the hell didn't I think of it before....CCTV cameras! I need to go to the office, calm down Rosie, I berate myself, you can't head off in the middle of the night, make a plan of how you're going to manage this without anyone else knowing. The cameras can be viewed in a small room at the back of reception. Fortunately I'm fully aware how the system works, what I need to do is gain access on my own, it's not illegal to go in there, my problem is I don't want anyone else to know what I'm looking for, if lucks on my side I only need to look at yesterdays reel, then I should be able to see the culprit, as the last gift must have come up to my office during the lunch break.....I know I'm never going to get back to sleep, so I'll lay here for a while pondering on my discovery, Oh how I hope it works!

At five thirty I'm up, take a quick shower and down a glass of juice, and make my way to the office, as I arrive I can't see anyone on reception, at this time of day it would only be security anyway, the main office doors are closed until seven am, however I have fob key, so I'll be able to get to my office when the time comes. The camera door is open as always, so I nip in, within minutes I'm scanning through yesterdays reel, I wind up to the time me and Sam left the office, and there's someone at the desk, but it's Mike the security guy, the receptionist must be at lunch and he's covering. No he's bent down behind the main desk.....I roll on a little until he's visible.....No I don't believe this he's actually holding this tiny package...Oh how have I missed who brought it in.....until shit!.....I haven't missed anything...I watch with horror....I haven't missed a thing Mike is wrapping paper around the parcel.....Oh My God! He's the bloody stalker....I'm finding it hard to take this in...the door opens and the night security guard Gerry looks very surprised to see me there!

'Rosie what on earth are you doing in at this hour?'

'Oh ju..just a bit of info I needed for the office.' I stutter.

Actually it's none of his business, however he is security, Mm so is my fucking stalker.

'Anything I can help you with love.' He offers.

'No I'm more or less done now.'

With that he shuts the door; I go back to the reel and see Mike, with the parcel in his hand heading towards the main office door. That's enough for me; I collect my bag and jacket and make my way to my office, to consider how I'm going to tackle this affair. To say I'm stunned to discover who this stalker is, would be an under statement, first of all he's a married man, with a family, so why would he do this, surely he realises the risk of being found out.

Harry came through the main doors just as I was pouring coffee.

'Good Morning Rosie you're an early bird on Monday morning.'

'Yeah guess I am Harry, didn't sleep too well so I thought why not, early start..... shall I pour you a cup?' I offer.

'Why not babe, I had a rough night as well, lucky for 'Chic' I'm thinking!'

We both go into our own offices, I can't wait for Sam to appear so I can share this news with her, two heads are better than one, I need to handle this diplomatically, as I don't want Mike to lose his job, that's why I didn't mention it to Harry, most people would have shouted it from the roof tops straight away, fortunately for Mike, I'm not most people....which means I'll give him a fair crack of the whip to explain himself!

'Sam I'm so pleased to see you babe!'

'Why what's wrong Rosie, you look as though you've seen a ghost!'

'I'd just as well have, pin back you're lugs and get a load of this honey.'

I explain in detail everything that has happened since the early hours, the look on Sam's face tells a story.

'First of all Rosie I have to tell you that Nan had the same thoughts as you with the cameras, what you gonna do love?'

'I can't believe we didn't think of it before, the things right under our nose and all that.'

'Are you going to tell Harry?' Sam asks.

'No babe, I'm going to speak to Mike on his own, tell him what I know and give him the chance to redeem himself, the guys married with a family, he needs his job, he hasn't hurt me, scared me yes, so that's plan A for now, if it doesn't turn out as hoped, then we switch to plan B.'

'You're a lot more generous than most Rosie, still that's you all over, when d'you plan to have this chat?'

'Lunchtime love, I'll nip down and tell him that I'd like a word in private.'

'Sooner better than later, what time you having your lunch then?' Sam asks.

'Mid day I'll be starving by then babe, no breakfast.'

Next thing I know Sam's put a kit kat under my nose, what would I do without her, that'll stop the growlers!

Dead on twelve o'clock I make my way down the stairs to find Mike, he's chatting to a guy near the main reception desk, so I divert into the toilets, to pass the time.

'Hi Mike, any chance we could have a word in private?' I ask.

'Always got time for you Rosie lets go over to the seating area, no one there at the moment.' He replies.

As we sit down I attempt to start the conversation.' Mike this is a delicate subject, so I won't beat around the bush best say what's on my mind.'

'It sounds serious Rosie.'

'Well Mike it is, I have good reason to believe that you've been buying gifts for me and contacting me by phone.'

He looks strained and uncomfortable.

'Don't worry I haven't reported this to Harry, I'm hoping we can sort this out between us, as I know you're married with family, so between me and you Mike what's going on?'

'I'm sorry Rosie, I got a bit carried away, I just think you're such a lovely person, and I know you're on your own.'

'Mike I may well be on my own, that is my preference, also I'd like to add that I'm not looking for a relationship, that's not the point here though, what about your wife?'

'She went off with another guy about three months ago, took the kids so I'm on my own now.'

'I'm sorry to hear that Mike, however stalking me wasn't the way to go, I think I mentioned the other day, if you're interested in someone, the best way is to ask them out, you'll soon learn by their response as to how they feel towards you.'

'I didn't think you'd look my way Rosie.'

'So how did you think the stalking would work?'

He looks so awkward, 'I guess I got caught up with it, I'm so sorry Rosie.'

'Well if I've got your assurance that it won't carry on, let's forget about it and get on with our lives.'

'Can we still be friends?' He asks.

'I can't see why not, we work together and I don't like atmospheres, so long as you know we will only ever be friends.'

'Thanks Rosie, I am truly sorry.'

'By the way I can't accept the gifts, obviously the flowers and chocolates have gone, and simply because I thought they were from a grateful reader.'

'Please keep them Rosie by way of an apology for all the trouble I've caused you.'

'I'll think on it Mike, now I must get on, don't go down that road again.'

'No way love and thank you for being so understanding.'

I nip out for a sandwich, which I take back in the office, where I find Sam has had the same idea, so she fetches me a coffee and I bring her up to date on the stalking scenario.

'I hope he knows how lucky he is it was your head he messed with, imagine what Diane Jacobs would have done with him.' Sam suggests.

'You never know babe maybe she has a penchant for a married man!'

'She probably has a penchant for any man!' We both laugh.

At least this evening I can rest easier in my bed, knowing my stalker is no more, in an odd way I feel a little bit sorry for Mike, call me mad if you will, but loneliness can do awful things to people, so I'm told, and believe me I'm told every week in numerous emails and letters, I know I can't solve everyone's dilemmas, you must be thinking I'm not so hot at solving my own, and I'm not, however the one's that I can help are grateful, also by reading my page it can give them some comfort, mainly that they're not the only people with a troubled life.

I catch up with Jack when I get back to the pub; he's in the bar, on his own.

'Hello girlfriend, come and have a drink?' He urges.

'Don't mind if I do Jack it's been a long day, white wine please.'

'Bill got back OK, he sent me a text.'

'That's good, I expect Lena was glad to have him back.'

'Yeah he's a one woman man is Bill.'

'Not a bad thing if it works for you and it certainly works for those two.'

'How you feeling now Jack, your eyes back to normal size and colour that has to be a good sign.'

'Bit worried about this place, Bill aint happy girl.'

'Well so long as we keep chipping away at the debts, and no more repeats of the fight night, we should be OK, for a while anyway.

'Yeah but that's down to you Clipper, me I'm crap, what's gonna happen when you move on?'

'Let's take it one day at a time Jack, now drink up and I'll make us a bite to eat.'

'Cheers girl, I'll come up to the kitchen in about ten minutes.'

'I'd better get a move on then.'

Now that's a first for Jack to mention the word worried, didn't think that was in his limited vocabulary, in fact he looked a bit down. On reflection that can't be a bad thing, maybe Bill's got through to him at last..... I made ham and cheese omelettes with baked beans, nothing special, I need to do a Sainsbury's shop sooner rather than later, in fact I may call in there on my way home tomorrow.

Me and Sam are working well together in the office, and we're getting into a routine, I'm enjoying having the second page, there's far more choice of selection, and sales have spiralled, so all is looking good!

For the first time in a while I have the chance of a good night's sleep, maybe I'll even try a phone call to Penny Lee....Mm on reflection perhaps that's not such a good idea if I want to sleep tonight. Oh well there always has to be a few unsolved issues, anyway tomorrows another day!

Chapter 25

'Rosie, I forgot to mention Mum and Dad are coming up for a couple of days on Thursday, so I rang Jack last night and he said I can stay at the Kasbah while they're here.'

'Oh that's great news babe, be lovely to see them, you'll be up on Jacks floor ha-ha, I'll sort the bed out for you tonight.'

'Cheers Hun.'

Ann, Sam's Nan only has two bedrooms, so Tony and Sue have Sam's room, can't have them sleeping in a single at the pub, and it saves Sam spending the night on the sofa.

'Hey that means you'll be coming back with me after the show on Thursday, in fact if you bring your bits into work I'll take your stuff to the Kasbah, as the last thing you want is taking an over night bag to the theatre.'

'Good thinking Rosie Budd.' She laughs.

There's an air of excitement around this week, not just because where going to the theatre on Thursday night, plus our 'Chic' photo on the front page of the Metro, something else that until now I can't put my finger on so to speak.....

No word from Penny Lee, so tonight I'm going to ring her, hopefully she's moved on from Bertie now and getting on with her life, if only she'd let her hair down and relax, at twenty six, single, own flat, well paid job, she should be having a ball!

Me and Sam went to the Landmark again at lunch time, becoming a bit of a habit, I must admit I suggested it, ever hopeful I'll bump into the gorgeous Ollie! I've made sure there's no embarrassment with Mike, I put myself out to speak to him each day, he insisted on me keeping the gifts, which up until now are still in the desk drawer, Sam can take the scruffy teddy bear to add to her collection, we can always share the perfume in the office, the silver necklace, not so sure......

As I leave the office it's absolutely teaming down with rain and silly me hasn't got her brolly, with luck there's a doorway where I catch my bus, trouble is I'm going to Sainsbury's, Oh well a plastic bag on the head? It could catch on....I buy enough to fill three carriers and duck and dive in the doorways as I walk back to the pub. I dump the shopping in the kitchen and strip off my wet clothes and have a warm shower, I've bought a chicken to roast for tonight, which gets stuffed into the oven with some roasties, I'll take some down to Jack later, then I'll sort the bed out for Sam, my I'm impressed with myself today, so blooming organised.

After the meal and a quick chat with Jack I decide it's time to phone Penny Lee, she picks up...

'Hi Pen how are you?' I enquire.

'OK.'

'Have you been out anywhere?' I try.

'Only to work.'

'We're going to the Theatre on Thursday night, do you fancy coming.'

'No, I don't like shows.'

This really is like treading through treacle...I try again.

'How about coming out with me on Sunday, we could go to Oxford Street, then lunch?' I ask hopefully.

'Why would I want to shop with you Mother we don't even like the same things.'

'Well you can choose where we go Pen, I'm trying here love.'

'I don't know what I'm doing on Sunday.'

What do I suggest now except why don't you come and pull my teeth out one at a time, it could make you feel better?

'If you fancy going out give me a ring then love, my treat, by the way I always meant to ask you what Berties surname is?'

'It's Pringle, though I can't think why you'd need to know that, you've made sure he's history. She snaps.

'Curiosity, that's all.'

'I have to go now Mother.' With that she ends the call, did she say goodbye, no I don't think so, no improvement there then, I do put my foot in it I know, I guess it wasn't the best time to mention Bertie, but I've always wanted to know his surname, Bertram Pringle poor little sod, but it's his father that's the archetypal Percy Pringle, don't you just love it, he'd be great on the adverts!

Time for bed, who shall I fall asleep with tonight, Will Smith, Brad Pitt or George Clooney? DVD...your minds! I actually ended up with Richard Gere, not a bad choice I think......

Wednesday today, rains stopped at last, so I think I'll take an extended lunch break and nip up to Oxford Street I've taken a liking to a purple peplum frock that's on the Jane Norman website, I can't go to the theatre in skinny jeans! Harry's cool with me taking time out as he's fully aware of the many extra hours I do, with my early mornings, I don't ever think he'd worry with me anyway, as I've said before we're good friends that go way back, and I'm a renowned workaholic! While I'm out I also intend to call in a couple of the estate agents and see what's about, I regularly search on the web sites, however this will be my first trip to an agent, I need to make this happen...sooner rather than later.

'D'you fancy Oxford Street at lunch Hun?' I ask Sam, she hates retail therapy.

'What are you going for?'

'A frock for tomorrow night, I've seen one in Jane Normans.'

'Ok then why not, what time?' Shock horror she's agreed!

'Mid day, have a word with Harry; he won't mind you having a bit longer.'

'I might buy one as well Rosie, Carls seen just about everything I own!'

'You always look lovely.' I add.

I'm still a little surprised that Sam's agreed to come shopping, although pleasantly pleased as we always have a laugh when we go out, we can get the bus to Oxford Circus, the stop is almost outside of Jane Norman, so if we both manage to buy a frock in there, we'll have plenty of time for lunch in British Homes Stores, they have some yummy meals on the menu and the service is ace. On our way back a quick look in the estate agents, perhaps they'll have details of flats available, if they do it could well convince me that one day this is really going to happen!

Our lunch break was fun, we had lots of laughs and both bought a dress for tomorrow, now I may have mentioned that Sam is a bit of a Goth, however she surprised herself as much as me and bought a red frock, it looks fabulous and Carl is going to love it......if only Penny Lee would come with us, I'll never give up trying, though I have little hope, possibly if she met the right guy and he did make her happy, she would change a little towards me, the hurt I feel is more for what she's missing out on....I'm dreaming again, dreams do come true sometimes, I'm ever the optimist! With that in mind I make dash for the bus stop, parcels and brochures in tact, to spend an evening performing a beauty regime, ready for the theatre tomorrow! OK the beauty regime consists of a hair wash; nail polish and a mud pack...what more does a girl need!

Chapter 26

When I wake the autumn sunshine is blasting through the window, Thursday at last, I feel that flush of excitement as tonight we're going to the theatre, what to see I haven't a clue as I've left that decision to Sam and Carl, I'm sure it'll be fun anyway.

I hang my outfit for tonight on the back of the door, and get everything ready that's possible, as I won't have much time, it will be a quick shower, dress and out the door. I was pleased with the brochures I picked up from the estate agents yesterday; there are many properties on the market, although sales are still at an all time low, I'm looking for the lower end of the market as far as price is concerned, if I keep my eye on available properties from now on, I'm optimistic that one will come along in the not too distant future, I shouldn't have a problem getting a mortgage as I'm on a decent salary. This will be the first time I'll have actually owned a place of my own and that feels very good.....I'm jumping the gun a bit here as I haven't even looked at one yet! Maybe Penny Lee will see me in a different light if I'm a property owner....... have you seen any pigs flying round here lately?

Sam's brought her over night bag into work, so I can drop that off when I get home, she's going home to change as her mum and dad will have arrived, I'm pleased there coming into the Kasbah tomorrow night, so we can catch up, karaoke's on so fingers crossed we don't have any trouble.

'I'm so excited about tonight Rosie, we're going to the Adelphi, and shall we meet up at the Castle for a drink first?'

'Yeah that sounds good, I've left all my things ready, so it won't take me long to get ready.'

'It starts at seven thirty.'

'That's cool, so if we meet at six fifteen?'

'Yeah, time for a quickie!' She replies.

'So how about we have a decent meal in our lunch break, as there won't be much time to eat before we go?'

'OK Landmark?'

'Why not, we're becoming regulars.' I laugh.

It was deadline day for our pages, by lunch time we were all ready to go to print, we popped into the Landmark and we both ordered those huge Yorkshire puddings filled with sausages and onion gravy plus a few French fries of course.....there wasn't too much to do during the afternoon so we managed to escape by four o'clock, Harry new we were going out, this was good as it gave me a little longer to get ready.

'You look good girlfriend.' Jack exclaims.

'Cheers Jack thought I'd better not wear the jeans.' I laugh.

'What you seeing girl?'

'Not sure it's at the Adelphi; I left it to Sam and Carl.'

'Don't forget Sam's staying here for the next two nights, so don't be running around in your birthday suit.' I tease.

'She might wanna see a real man babe.'

'Yeah shall we leave it there?' I laugh.

'Enjoy girlfriend.'

'Laters.' I wave as I go out the side door.

Sam wouldn't take the money off me for the ticket, as she said Carl had bought the tickets and she wasn't sure of the cost, so I'll settle up with them later. I do feel quiet excited even if I have to observe Sam and Carl chewing the faces off each other! Be fun anyway and a complete change of scenery. As I walked into the Castle, they were already there, and a glass of wine poured with my name on.

'Hi Rosie they say in unison, you look fab!'

'Thanks guys, your both looking pretty hot too.'

'We're sitting in the back row of the stalls.' Sam advises.

'Back row eh, I laugh; it's a long time since I've been any where near a back row.'

'Well Rosie Budd tonight will change that, she laughs, by the way cab, bus or tube?'

'Bus there and a cab back.' Carl suggests.

'That sounds about right, another drink guys before we go?' I offer.

'No we better head off it could be busy.' Sam says.

'OK lets hit the road then.' Carl says as he heads to the door.

We make our way to the bus stop, it's only a short distance to the Strand, as most of the office workers are off the streets by now, and we all manage to get a seat. I'm enjoying watching these two together they really are a match made in heaven, I wouldn't repeat that to Sam as she'd be sure to say 'pass the bucket!'

There was a short queue outside the theatre, however as we had our tickets we were admitted without delay. Sam stopped to buy sweets; I declined when she asked as I'm a noisy cruncher! As we're shown to our seats, Sam insists I go in first as she explains Carl likes to sit by the isle, no problem to me she has chosen excellent seats. I've surpassed myself tonight wearing my new purple frock, with a silver grey jacket, shoes and bag all matching! I like to be smart in the City. So I slip my jacket off and fold it over my knee. I notice Sam is looking around rather a lot, tad fidgety.

'You OK love you seem a bit edgy?' I ask.

'No I'm fine Rosie, you know me nosy as ever.' She replies.

Carl starts to give me the low down on the show, which by the way is The Bodyguard, I so enjoyed this film and must admit I've seen it several times, the music is amazing and I can't wait to see the stage version. For some reason Sam is bobbing around like a frog on acid....could she have picked up a flea?

'Lights are going down now Rosie.' Sam almost squeals like a kid at Christmas, what's with her?

'That's cool I reply.'

Unexpectedly as the lights were going down I hear the seat next to me go down, Mm I'll take a look in a minute to see who's sitting there, I don't want to seem rude, Sam is still acting a little odd which is slightly out of character I must say, she's now staring at me wide eyed, if I didn't no better I'd say Jack had popped her a pill. I turn round slowly in my seat and glance to my left. Oh! My! God! The person sitting next to me is none other than the gorgeous Ollie Burns! Our eyes meet....

'Hi Rosie how are you?'

Now I know if I utter a word it will sound squeaky probably inaudible...am I dreaming? I've come over all hot and peculiar....all of a sudden Sam's odd behaviour falls into place the minx!

I smile and utter, 'Fine thank you Ollie.'

That took enormous courage and came out sounding far better than I expected after all.

'Let me explain Rosie I wanted to do something special to thank you for your help, so I thought what better than a show.' He whispers.

I'm still grinning, my mouth is dry and I feel as though my tongue's been set in concrete.

'Are you OK with this Rosie?' Ollie try's again.

'Perfect.' How did I manage that two syllable job?

Sam and Carl are chuckling away, at my expense no doubt, they'll pay for this I smile inwardly.

'Hey relax, I'm sure you'll enjoy the show, the music is outstanding, and the reviews are brilliant.'

Sitting next to you honey I'd enjoy anything, the shows just about to start, and I can feel the heat from his body emanating towards me...or is it from mine? Ollie slips his jacket off, his bare forearm is right next to me...I have a burning desire to touch him, I haven't even looked at the stage, and I'm focusing solely on this gorgeous man who is so close to me. The music is very emotional and at last I can feel myself relaxing. Sam passes her sweets around, but that's the last thing I need, I'd probably swallow it whole, and Ollie also declines. The main actors staring in the famous roles of Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner are portraying the story so well.

During the interval Ollie asks me if I'd like a drink or ice-cream, actually I'm thinking a double brandy wouldn't go amiss! I didn't say a word just smiled. Sam and Carl had gone in search of sustenance or maybe to give us a few minutes on our own.

'Rosie I hope you didn't mind me setting this up, with Sam's help of course.'

'Not at all it's a wonderful surprise, I'm delighted, I didn't have a clue, thank you Ollie.'

'I expect your wondering how I managed it.'

'Mm I guess, I'm thinking Sam had a lot to do with it.'

'Yeah I mentioned it to her in the Kasbah the last time I was there and then I saw her in the Landmark on Monday, after you left.'

'The crafty minx she told me she was going to the loo, I laugh, I saw you going into the Landmark as I was about to get off the bus that morning, you don't work there do you?'

'No Rosie not as such, I visit many pubs I'm a stock taker.'

'That's answered my next question, as I noticed you leaving the Castle one evening.'

'I work independently; I'm also a plumber by trade.'

'So is Carl, no doubt you already know that.'

'Yes, I've worked with him before.'

'I hope you're girlfriend approves of you being at the theatre tonight Ollie?'

He laughs, 'What girlfriends that Rosie?'

'The one you brought to the Kasbah, Zara I believe.'

'That's my younger sister Rosie, I don't have a girlfriend.'

'Oops sorry, I just assumed.'

With that Sam and Carl reappear and the curtain goes up for the second half, I feel so much more relaxed after our chat, everything has slotted into the right perspective.

Then that magnificent ballad I Who Have Nothing fills the theatre, so moving, passionate....I close my eyes I'm lost in the moment as I listen to the soul searching lyrics....being so close to Ollie is affecting me deeply...no man has ever had this magnetic affect on me ever before....I can almost feel him caressing my breasts, gently rhythmically in time to the music.....I have a sensual ache in my groin...his hands are stroking me.. down...down until his fingers are stimulating this beautiful erotic ache.....suddenly the song is over, as I slowly open my eyes Ollie is watching me....my body is tingling all over...I need this man so much........how is he feeling, does he realise how much his very presence is stirring my emotions...our eyes are locked together....I want to touch him, though for that moment I'm unable to move, I try to drag myself back to reality, this is not the place Rosie, I silently berate myself...not here not now! The music is scintillating I desperately try to concentrate, although everything feels so mythical, fairy tale even....as the curtain goes down for the final time I come back to naturalness with a bang, praying that Ollie hasn't been able to read my mind, the audience's applaud lingers on until the lights go up, then reality hits home.

'Did you enjoy it Rosie, Sam asks; don't you just love the music?'

'It was fantastic honey.'

We all struggle to put our jackets on and Carl leads the way out of the theatre, outside everywhere is milling with people, we turn swiftly onto a side street so we can decide on getting home.

'Shall we get a taxi back?' Carl suggests.

'Me and Rosie are going back to the Kasbah, and we've all got to work in the morning.' Sam adds.

'Are you staying at the pub now Sam?' Ollie enquires.

'Oh only for a couple of nights as my parents are up from Kent, my Nan only has a two bedroom house, so it saves me sleeping on the sofa.'

'Ok shall we see the girls home first then Carl?' Ollie offers.

'Yeah why not, I can walk back from the pub, how about you Ollie?'

'That's fine I can walk back as well, lets go then, ready girls?'

While driving home in the cab we all discuss the show, our favourites songs and the actors, seems we're all of the same mind that it was very well done! I'm so aware of being squashed in next to Ollie, I wish I knew what he was thinking....I want to ask him in for a drink, however I'm not sure if Jack will have his cronies hanging out with him and that could prove embarrassing as well as spoil the evening. Outside of the pub, the guys paid the cab, Sam walked to the door with Carl to say there goodnights...Ollie put his arms around me and held me close, then brushed my lips tenderly with his...I wanted to stay in his arms forever! I thanked him for a lovely evening and wished him goodbye. Me and Sam went into the pub, as it was Jack was on his own looking at the paper, so we had a quick drink and told him about the show, then headed upstairs.

'Rosie Budd you've so got the hots for that guy, what are you like?'

'You honey have no idea how I felt in that theatre, he's on fire he sizzles!'

'He fancies you Rosie it shows.'

'He didn't ask to exchange numbers or ask to see me again, so who am I kidding?'

'I have his number, she grins, give him time love maybe he's afraid of coming on too strong.'

'He needn't be afraid of that; I'd eat him alive given half the chance!'

'I might just send him a text telling him that, he'll be back in a shot!' Sam jokes.

'I'm too old for him babe, so it's crazy even thinking about it, I'm just a lustful lady!'

'That's madness no way are you too old!'

'You're just a tad biased my lovely friend, time we hit the sack as we've got work in the morning and karaoke tomorrow night, sleep well and no slipping into Jack's room by mistake.' We both laugh.

Chapter 27

My dreams were full of Ollie and the events of the evening, I was restless (not surprising) and my first thought when I woke was that special little kiss....so sweet I touched my lips. I feel confused I hope he wasn't disappointed in the way the evening ended, maybe he was, he's an enigma.....So Zara's his sister I wonder what she thought of the Kasbah, probably the same as Penny Lee, a night at the Muppet show, on acid of course!

After a quick shower I put the kettle on, I expect Sam will appreciate coffee, no sounds coming from upstairs yet, so I'll take a mug up to her in bed, as knowing Sam she'll probably have forgotten to set her alarm.

'Good morning sleepy head.' I gesture.

'Thanks Rosie, Mm I slept like a log.' She adds drowsily.

'That's good babe, I've got toast ready to go, d'you fancy scrambled eggs?'

'Yeah, I'm famished.'

'You're better off coming down to use the shower, then you can put your slap on in my room while I sort breakfast out.'

'Cool, I wish I was as organised as you Rosie, Nan has to nag me.'

'That's OK I can do that to.' I laugh.

On the way to work we chatted over the events of last night, although Sam enjoyed the show I feel she chose that venue as she knows The Bodyguard is one of my favourites.

'Do you know where Ollie lives?' I ask.

'Yeah his flats near to where Carl lives in Pimlico.

'Not too far then you're better than a private eye! What size shoes does he take?' We both laugh.

The day went by quickly, and we only popped out for a sandwich, which we ate in the office. On the way home Sam called into her Nan's so she could catch up with her parents, when I got back to the pub I cooked a meal for me and Jack, and then changed for the evening session.

We're expecting a busy night, Chris arrived early to set the karaoke up, I'm sure secretly he's hoping we don't have a repetition of his last gig, and so say all of us! Sam and Carl were the first ones through the door, the bar was all ready , Jack seemed in a normal mood, Mm well as normal as Jack can be if you know what I mean, so it's all systems go.

By eight o'clock the bar was rocking and rolling with a medley of songs blaring out over the microphone by would be singers. Sam's parents Tony and Sue arrived with Ann, there all old mates of Jacks from the days in the Castle, so Tony pushed a couple of tables side by side so they could all sit together as Carl had joined them, so far so good the night was buzzing!

Jack had started throwing a few moves, with Sam right behind him, aping his famous cockaleptic dance, which was amusing her family immensely. The squawk box kicked in about nine o'clock and to my complete and utter joy....it was no other than Ollie! Suddenly the world seemed a much brighter place.

'Hi Rosie how are you?' He asked.

'Fine thanks Ollie, are you having a lager?'

'Yes please babe, packed house tonight.'

Carl came over and paid for Ollie's drink, and then he took him over to join Sam's family, as I served I could see Carl introducing them all, it gave me a warm glow, lets face it just being in the same room as the guy gives me more than a glow!

I meet Sam at the till and she whispers,' I told you he had the hots for you Rosie Budd!'

'Yeah right, I add laughing.

All in all this had the makings of a fabulous night, even with the proverbial Muppet show in full swing. The lager went so I nipped down to the dreaded cellar to change the barrel, as Jack was engrossed in air punching at a rate of knots, on my way back up the stairs I could hear a guy singing, a voice I didn't recognise and to my absolute amazement I see Ollie holding the Mic...Wow! He was singing Make you Feel my Love by Ronan Keating, what a voice, how many more hidden talents has this guy got? And he's looking my way...here I go again trembling like a jelly...knees knocking...what's going on with me, did I imagine he was looking at me, I mean the stage does look straight at the bar...I'm being ridiculous! At the end of the song there's riotous applause, well he's the only one so far who can actually sing!

'I didn't see that coming.' Sam declares as we meet once again at the till.

'What next?' I ask.

'Be patient Rosie as I think you're about to find out.'

'Ouch! Look who Jack's just let in.'

My daughter Penny Lee walks into the bar towards me, I inwardly pray that she won't spoil the evening and embarrass me, I see Tony jumps up and comes over, Pen actually gets on really well with Tony and Sue, as they have known her since she was at school.

'Hello Pen long time no see girl, let me get you a drink.' Tony says as he gives her a hug!

Phew!

That was a close call, Tony takes her over to their table and for the moment I've been rescued....

By eleven thirty most of the youngsters have moved on, Chris is packing up his gear, apart from a couple of his henchmen, Jack seems to be ushering them all out. So me and Sam go and join the rest of them at the table, Jack treats everyone to a drink and Tony is doing what he does best entertaining everyone with his jokes. This went on for a while, then I heard Tony ask Pen what she was doing these days, to my surprise and relief she didn't start to slag me off, perhaps she knew she was in the wrong company.

'You haven't seen our new house have you love?' He asks.

'No I haven't seen you for ages.' Pen replies.

'Well how d'you fancy coming back with us tomorrow, for the weekend like, We'll take you to our local, there's someone I'd like you to meet?' Tony offers.

To my complete surprise Pen agreed, so I didn't utter a word, even though I think the lovely Ann may have had words with them.... about the Bertie syndrome.

'It'll do you good to have a change of scenery love.' Sue adds.

With that they all start to move towards calling it a night, as Tony and Sue are heading back home early in the morning, so with all the hugs and goodbyes out of the way, Ollie calls me over to the other side of the bar.

'Are you working tomorrow Rosie?' He asks.

'Yes, although it won't be as busy as tonight.'

'Is there any chance you could maybe get away early?'

'I'll have a word, won't be a long.'

'Jack, any chance I could finish early tomorrow night please?'

'You on a promise then babe? He laughs, course you can, I owe you big time girlfriend, if you work until eight that'll do me babe.'

'Cheers Jack.'

'I only have to work until eight.' I tell Ollie.

'Magic, only I'd love to cook you a meal, unless of course you'd prefer to go out? Ollie asks.

'I'd rather you cooked me a meal, sounds great, being spoilt again.'

'I haven't had chance to spoil you Rosie, I've never really ever been on my own with you.'

'You took me to the theatre.' I add.

'Well now you can test my culinary skills, I enjoy cooking.'

'You have so many hidden talents.' I laugh.

'Not really babe, so if I collect you at eight then?'

'I'm looking forward to it already.'

'Are you walking back now Carl?' Ollie asks.

'Yeah I'm on my way.'

Ollie gives me another one of those tingling little kisses on the lips, and he's gone.

'Goodnight Jack.' Me and Sam shout in unison.

'Cheers girl friends.'

As we trundle up the stairs, I tell Sam about my date tomorrow, well it is a date I guess.

'I told you Rosie, I knew it wouldn't be long, you go for it babe.'

'D'you fancy a coffee before bed?'

'Mm sounds good, how about Pen going to mum and dads tomorrow?'

'Bless your parents I thought she'd come in tonight to have ago.'

'By all accounts there's a guy working at their local, he's restaurant manager, about thirty, mum thinks he'd suit Pen down to the ground, so watch this space Rosie.' She laughs.

'Not just a private eye then, match maker as well, I laugh, and anyone who can fix Pen up with the right kind of guy is worth their weight in gold as far as I'm concerned.'

'I'll say goodnight honey sleep tight and all that, I'm bushed.'

'Goodnight Rosie sweet dreams.' She laughs.

As I slip into bed my mind is on one thing, tomorrow night with Ollie, he's going to cook me a meal, how sweet is that, although I mustn't take any thing for granted, OK he's asked me to dinner that's all so don't start reading anything into it, and remember Rosie Budd men are Taboo!

Chapter 28

I slept well, now as I lay here once again pondering on the night ahead, what to wear, I think maybe a long skirt with a colourful top, heels and a jacket, that's cool. Perhaps I should take the brochures I picked up at the estate agents, be something to discuss. A few photos, Mm.... no not a good idea, who wants to look at your old snaps, gosh woman you're never short of something to say. So with my mind made up on the outfit I get up and switch the kettle on, I won't wake Sam neither of us need to rush as there's no work until tonight, I'm not going to cash and carry this week, as there's still a fair amount of stock, so I'll leave it until next weekend. As I'm making a coffee, Sam appears in the doorway, looking very sleepy.

'You needn't get up Hun, or are you going to see your mum and dad off?'

'Rosie I have to tell you something.' She whispers.

I make two mugs of coffee and we head back to my room, where Sam closes the door.

'Whatever's wrong babe?'

'It's Jack, I got up in the night to use the loo, and as I was coming out the bathroom, I saw him with a youngish guy and they went into his bedroom, I've hardly slept Rosie, the guy he hasn't left he's still there I swear.'

'Oh so the rumours are right, he's batting for both sides, what is he like?' I grin.

'Gave me the creeps a bit I can tell you.' Sam adds.

'Did you recognise him Hun?'

'Not sure, but I have a horrible feeling he's one of Carls mates.'

'Oh My God, are you going to mention it?' I ask.

'Not until I've seen the guy who I think it is, need to be sure, before I say anything.'

'I doubt Carl will have a clue anyway Hun, maybe they're both bi and whatever, they call it, lets face it, Jack is pretty camp with his designer glass frames that match his tops and stuff, pierced nipples, not run off the mill is it eh? I mean you don't see most guys like that, even the Muppets who co habit the Kasbah!'

'Oh well we live and learn, well we do in Jack's world eh?' Sam adds.

'Have you got time for breakfast before you go babe?'

'Best not Rosie, I think they want to get away early, Dad's got a job on, and they're picking Pen up.'

'Hope that goes well, fingers crossed and all that.'

'You know what my dads like if he can match her up he will.'

'I'll take my hat off to him if he does.' I jest.

'I'll have a quick shower then head home, see you later Rosie.'

'Ok Hun.'

For a change I had a leisurely day, catching up with all my chores, I decided not to ring Penny Lee but I sent her a text saying have great weekend, see you next week. I don't think she realised last night quite who Ollie was, so that's a relief. I went down to the bar and made sure it was all ship shape for tonight, I was going to open up at six, and Sam and Jack will take over at eight, it shouldn't be that busy to start.

By eight o'clock I'm like a bottle of pop, Sam's laughing because I'm wearing a skirt, (use your imagination and you'll know just what she's accusing me of), the very thought never crossed my mind! Ollie came in on the dot, Oh well campers here goes!

'Hi Rosie, you look lovely.'

'Thank you.' I proffer.

I say a quick goodbye to everyone and we leave through the side door, to my surprise there's a cab waiting for us.

'I hope you like Chinese Rosie.' Ollie asks.

'One of my favourites, you're quite the chef.' I add.

'Not really, but I don't mind having a go.'

As we arrive at Ollie's flat, I'm impressed, it's a four story Victorian style house, the outside is painted white and there are two window boxes on the first floor filled with colourful winter flowers, which adds to the presence of the building, as we go inside, the décor is light in colour, which gives the hallway a classy feel. Ollie's flat I discover is on the first floor, as he lets me in I'm suitably stunned at this gorgeous flat, he certainly has worked hard and it's a credit to him, it has to be my favourite look monochrome, the sofa is black with black and white cushions, all though he's placed a couple of red ones to offset the rest, the room is large, there's a table and chairs at the far end, the table is laid beautifully ready for our meal, they're are other items of furniture, all in keeping, though it's minimalistic, which I love, I hate clutter. I didn't want him to feel I was scrutinizing everything.

'Sit down Rosie, relax and I'll pour some drinks.'

'You certainly have worked hard here; it's a credit to you.' I observe.

'That's kind Rosie, now what would you like to drink, white or red wine or champagne?'

'Oh you choose Ollie surprise me.' I laugh.

'Would you like to eat now?'

'Whenever you're ready I'm looking forward to this.'

'Come and sit at the table and I'll dish up, I've got everything keeping warm.' With that Ollie lights the candles on the table and turns down the lights, this is looking like fairy land after the Kasbah.

He brings in about eight different dishes plus sauces including lemon chicken, fried rice with egg and prawns, vegetable dishes, there is so much he must have been preparing this all day.

'Please just tuck in Rosie, try everything but leave anything you don't like, some of the dishes are new ones, so you're testing out my limited skills.'

The meal was delicious, we shared a bottle of white wine and as we ate and chatted we we're both relaxed, we had lots of things in common, we briefly spoke of our families and then work, he was so interested in my career, and how long I've worked at 'Chic' I gathered he split his time between plumbing and stock taking, by the sounds of it he works long hours, obviously to be able to afford this flat.

'Did I mention I got a mortgage on this flat, the best thing I ever did.'

'I brought over some brochures to show you, I called into the estate agents the other day, it feels as though it may really happen now, there's only so long you can stay at the Kasbah.' We both laugh.

'I think you're very brave, it can't be easy and so much extra work for you.'

'Well it helped me out of a sticky situation, Jacks a character I know, but his hearts in the right place.'

'Now you have to try this special desert, it's chocolate and cream and strawberries, I made it up, so let's hope it tastes good.'

'Sounds yummy what's not to like, your spoiling me Ollie.'

'Not before time, I've wanted to do this for a long time Rosie, you're a special lady.'

'You're rather special yourself Ollie Burns and thank you for tonight.'

'The nights only just begun Rosie, shall we take our drinks over to the sofa, I'll put some music on and for once we can relax together with no interruptions.'

The wine is doing its work, I couldn't feel more relaxed if I tried, and I think I've floated up to heaven.....Ollie sat next to me and for a while we just relaxed and listened to the softly playing music.

'Can I help you clear away Ollie?'

'No thanks Rosie, I've stacked the dishes in the kitchen, I treated myself to a dishwasher recently so I'll do it all in the morning, the night now is ours, shall we open the champagne?'

'Mm it's a while since I've tasted champagne, possibly as there's been little to celebrate, Oh! I'm not complaining I'm a very optimistic person, I don't let many things bug me!'

'You always seem cheerful babe, you've a beautiful smile.'

We chink glasses with our champagne, Ollie says, 'To us.'

'To us.' I repeat.

As we sit silently once again, enjoying the music and our drinks, I feel Ollie's arm slip around my shoulders, he leans over and takes the glass from my hand then kisses me tenderly on the lips, the kiss was long and lingering, stirring emotions throughout my body, as we moved closer together....the kisses became more passionate, his tongue was teasing mine, arousing me beyond words, he was gentle, and kissed my neck which sent shudders down my spine, my body was on fire, I ran my fingers through his hair and caressed his shoulders with my fingertips.... We kissed again...deeply....stronger, his embrace was erotic, sensual....without warning Ollie scoops me up in his arms and carries me into the bedroom and softly lays me down....kissing me constantly he tenderly undresses me, then without effort slips out of his clothes, our naked bodies are at last together as though they fit like a puzzle, Ollie gentle holds my arms out at my sides as he showers me once again with kisses, all over my face, then down to my breasts, he releases my arms and as he gently sucks my erect nipples I run my hands over his firm buttocks....with his tongue he licks me seductively down to my navel, I shudder at his touch and thrust my hips towards him, he caresses my inner thighs as his tongue finds the vital erogenous zone the stimulation of his tongue on my clitoris is sensational....and my body throbs into an amazing climax...I'm pulling him towards me, gentle fondling his cock....shuddering as I wait to feel him enter me...slowly at first he thrusts himself into me....gripping my buttocks as he moves within me...then faster and deeper until the passion builds to such a height we both climax together....shuddering with the stimulating release.....I feel as though I'm drifting in a sea of ecstasy....never in my life have I ever felt this way....I never want it to end.....we kiss gently as our breathing slowly returns to normal....spent and tingling.....we lay silently together....stroking each other and sharing tender kisses...as once again the passion builds, 'I love you Rosie....I want you and me to be forever....he whispers'.........

