by Karen Clow
Fortunately Tony never arrived the following day. Due to business commitments he’d had to postpone his trip to Kent.
Over the next few days everyone noticed that Jess appeared to be quieter than normal, several times Maria had asked her if everything was ok.
Wednesday morning started with a call from Monica, “Hi Maria me and George are driving down today once the boys are at school, the estate agent has arranged for us to view some houses in Maidstone.” “That’s wonderful, why don’t you come here for lunch then you can tell us all about the properties.” “We’d love to, see you later.”
The morning passed quickly. The triplets were now beginning to crawl which meant constant supervision if they weren’t in the playpen. The two puppies which they had kept were growing at the speed of light and getting into mischief, especially their puppy Lola. Work had started on the annex for Den and Mary; it would only be a few weeks before it was completed. Mickey and Billy had taken the girls to school because they wanted to call in at the club to check the stock. Maria had only just finished feeding the triplets when George and Monica turned up just after midday. Mary made them a cup of tea while Maria put the babies down for a nap. When the two men returned from the club, Mickey was keen to know how the house hunting had gone and whether they had any more houses to view that day. Excitedly Monica said, “The third house we looked at was ideal, George has put in an offer for it, the estate agent seemed sure the owners would accept.
“Did I hear you say you’ve found a house,” said Maria as she appeared in the lounge. “Yes it’s really nice, in our price range and ready to move into, although the room which will be Harry’s is decorated pink!” “No doubt he’ll want that changed if we buy it,” said George, jokingly.
Over lunch they talked about the house. George liked the fact that it was only a fifteen minutes drive from the club and there were two good schools in the area. After lunch Maria suggested finding something for Jess to wear on her night out with Billy. Monica was quick to say that she would help as they didn’t have to return to London for another hour. Mary offered to clear the lunch dishes and suggested that the men watch the triplets when they woke up. Mickey was just about to say yes when the house phone rang. It was the workman from the cottage calling to say that the work was completed and did Maria want him to drop the key off. Mickey said, “Great, if you do that I can settle the bill at the same time.”
Upstairs the ladies were selecting several dresses that Jess might like to wear, but both ladies noticed she didn’t seem very enthusiastic. Monica sat next to her on the bed and said, “Come on Jess cheer up, just think in a couple of days you’ll be out enjoying yourself, so you should try a few on.” They noticed Jess looked tearful. Maria smiled at her and said, “What’s wrong, don’t you want to go out with Billy?” In a quiet voice she replied, “It’s not that I don’t want to go its just I’m nervous, I’ve never been out with anyone before.” Typically Monica said, “Take my advice Jess enjoy it while you’re young. It’s really nice to be wined and dined but once you’ve been going out a few months that soon wears off!” Although Jess laughed along with them, Maria could still sense that something wasn’t quite right but she decided to wait until they were alone before she would say anything. Finally they got her to try on a few dresses. There was one in particular that they liked. It was a strapless short black dress, very sexy. Maria had bought it before she had the triplets. Jess looked gorgeous, her slim figure fitting it perfectly. Looking at herself in the mirror she said, “Isn’t it a bit short?” “Absolutely not,” said Monica “for your first date you want to impress him and wearing that you definitely will! Once you’ve added all the finishing touches you’ll be irresistible, Billy won’t be able to take his eyes off you!” Looking a bit confused Jess said, “What finishing touches?” “You know hair, make up, perfume.” “I don’t have any make up and I’ve always had my hair like this.” “Well it’s time for a makeover then don’t you agree Maria?” Smiling Maria nodded at her.
The bell for the outside gate rang. Den answered it and told Mickey it was the builder from the cottage. A few minutes later Den was opening the front door to him and taking him through to the kitchen.
When the ladies came downstairs Mickey presented Maria with the key and explained that he had settled the bill. Kissing him on the cheek she said, “Great now all we have to do is get the furniture delivered. Jess has made all the soft furnishings, so tomorrow we’ll drive over there and hang the curtains.” George looked at his watch and told Monica that they would have to think about driving back to London. Ten minutes later they were getting into their car.
Just as they began to pull away his phone rang. Stopping the car he answered it. Monica listened as he said, “Great yeah, thanks for getting back so quickly, we’ll be in touch once we’ve spoken to the appropriate people.” As soon as the call ended Monica said, “Was that the estate agent?” “Actually it was, our offer has been accepted.” Monica couldn’t contain her excitement as she shouted out the car window to the others, “They’ve accepted our offer! I’ll call you when we know more, now we really have got to go or we’ll catch the heavy traffic!” After they’d disappeared from sight, the others returned to the house. Maria and Jess went straight to the computer room to tell the furniture company that they could now take delivery of the items they had bought for the cottage. Ten minutes after sending the e-mail, they were contacted and told that their goods could be delivered that Friday. Both ladies were very secretive about exactly what they had ordered, despite Billy trying to find out. Even over dinner that evening all they talked about was the cottage. Mickey interrupted their chatter and asked, “How long will you be tomorrow hanging the curtains?” Maria looked curious and replied, “Not long why?” “Well I was going to suggest that you and Jess spent the day there on Friday, we’ll look after all the kids then perhaps on Saturday we could all go and see the finished product.” “Oh Mickey that would be wonderful, in that case we could leave everything till Friday. The furniture is being delivered anytime from midday to five. If you’re sure about having the kids maybe we could pop into town early and pick up the last few bits of décor.” “I’m sure between all of us we could manage to have the kids for the day, I’m sure dad and Billy can sort the twins out for school.” Billy interrupted and said, “No problem, the twins love it when I take them to school, but just remember me and Jess are eating out Friday so no fish and chips on the way home!” Maria replied, “We won’t forget, I’ll get her back in good time.” Everyone noticed that Jess went very quiet, but nobody said anything.
When Jess went to bed later that evening all she could think about was her date with Billy, even thinking that she may have made a mistake saying she’d go because she felt so nervous about it.
Even the next day she didn’t seem her normal self, especially around Billy she seemed very quiet. Maria did try to get time on her own with her so she could try and talk, but with the house having a constant flow of people it was impossible.
Mickey spent most of the day in his study, calling his office. Since employing Woody Bank’s niece Shelly the office had run smoothly. Lucinda had increased her hours since Mickey had decided to work from home most of the time. Having them there gave him peace of mind. Shelly got on well with Lucinda and both women were smart, intelligent and reliable. He had talked to Maria about taking on another solicitor to deal with some of the cases. After putting the word around several people had spoken to him of the possibility. One young man in particular was very keen to join the firm, his name was Aden Pratt, very ambitious with a genuine love of the law and at just twenty nine he had already assisted on several high profile cases. Mickey liked him; there was a strong probability that he would offer him the position with a view to becoming a partner.
CHAPTER 2
Friday morning saw Maria and Jess up first, they were keen to sort the kids out before going into town and then on to the cottage. By the time Billy and Den returned from the school trip,
they were ready to go. After checking the last few details they kissed Becky and the triplets and left, thanking the others as they pulled away.
Thirty minutes later they were parking at the shopping precinct.
In the shopping centre Maria spotted a new hair salon which had just opened that week. “Come on Jess lets take a look,” she said. They both looked at the price list that was in the window, then Maria said, “Maybe you could have your hair done for tonight, they don’t look very busy.” “I wouldn’t even know what style to ask for and I haven’t collected my money yet.” “Don’t worry about that, let’s go in and see what they say.” A young girl asked if she could help them as they entered. Maria smiled and replied, “Actually we were just wondering if you could fit my friend in sometime this morning?” “You’re in luck. Our ten o’clock just rang in and cancelled but what did you have in mind. We wouldn’t be able to do a colour or highlights because you have to take a skin test twenty four hours before.” “No we don’t want anything like that, just a cut and style. We’re not really sure what exactly; maybe we could ask the stylist?” “Take a seat ladies while I go and ask for you.”
A few moments later she returned with a young woman. Taking her over to Jess and Maria, she said, “This is Becky. I’ve explained to her that you’re not really sure what you want, so she’ll have a chat with you ok.” They thanked her as she headed back to her desk. Maria joked with Jess and said, “Ok Jess tell Becky what you’d like.” Within minutes the stylist was touching Jess’s hair and giving her opinion on which style she thought would suit her. Deciding on a layer cut and after Maria talked Jess into having it done, Becky said, “Take a seat at the wash basin.” Whilst having her hair washed Jess said, “I have a daughter called Becky.” “Really, you don’t look old enough to have a child.” “Thank you; I’ll be eighteen in a few weeks.” “Well you don’t look it, I thought you were about sixteen. So why did you want you’re hair done today, is it a special occasion?” Before Jess could reply Maria said, “Yes she’s got a hot date tonight, he’s a real hunk isn’t he Jess?” Then to her surprise Jess said, “Yes he’s really nice, but we’re just friends and it’s not a date; we’re just going out together for the evening.” Becky joked and said, “Well send him my way, the only blokes I seem to meet are either married or got half a dozen kids!” They all laughed.
Maria never mentioned Billy again at the salon, but she decided to herself that she would have a chat to Jess about him when they were alone at the cottage. Forty minutes later when Becky had finished she smiled and said, “Well what do you think?” Jess just stared at her reflection as Becky held a mirror up so she could see the back. “Oh Jess it looks lovely, you look so different you should keep it like that,” said Maria. “Yes I really like it; I never expected it to look this nice.” “Well I wouldn’t be a very good stylist if you didn’t,” joked Becky.
Outside in the shopping centre Maria said, “We’ll have to hurry and get the bits we need because it’s already eleven o’clock and we’ve got to be at the cottage by midday.” Fortunately everything they needed was available in one large store, their best buy being a half price log holder which would sit on the hearth.
It was almost twelve fifteen when they pulled up outside the cottage. After making tea they busied themselves putting up curtains etc, before the furniture arrived at two. They asked the delivery men to carry it to the appropriate rooms for them; it was almost four by the time the men left.
Back at the house Mickey was on the phone. Tony had called to say that he was on his way down to Kent. They talked freely about the girl he was coming to see when Mickey explained that Maria was out. “What time are you seeing her Tony?” “Not till six, I thought I be a gentleman and take her out for dinner.” “I take it she’s the girl you met at the club, how old is she?” “Didn’t ask, about twenty I think. She’s single, her name is Lydia and she rents a flat on her own, no kids no ties, just how I like them. Tell you the truth Mick; she made me horny just fucking talking to her.” “So is she just a lay then, or are you coming back?” Tony laughed and said, “Well lets just say if she’s as good in bed as I think she’s gonna be, I’ll be coming down your way a bit more often.” Mickey was taking in all that was being said and remembering what had happened to Tony’s young mistress in London, he would have been happier if Lydia didn’t live in Kent because he knew what Maria would think. The life they had there was different to the one he had in London, but Tony was a good friend so he would simply turn a blind eye, although he did say, “Do us a favour Tony, don’t let anything slip in front of Maria, she’s only just got over the kidnapping, plus she really likes your Isabella, so I don’t want her worrying about things; you know how it is mate.” “Course I do Mick, don’t worry, once I’m having this bird I won’t pop in every time I’m down there. If you like I can ask her to bring a friend out one night; we can have a foursome, just like the good old days!” Not wanting to offend him Mickey laughingly replied, “I wouldn’t have the energy for a young bird now, but thanks all the same Tony! What with five kids and a wife who makes constant demands on my body, I’m fucking knackered!” “Yeah and you fucking love it! Well if ever Maria gets too much for you, I’ll always help you out. I could probably fit her in once a week; take a bit of pressure off you mate!” Knowing he was simply messing about Mickey jokingly replied, “All the time I can get Viagra I think I’ll be ok!” “Well if it does get too much just give me a bell!” “I’ll keep that in mind, only one problem with that Tony.” “What’s that then?” “If you touched my wife I’d have no choice but to send you for a midnight dip wearing concrete boots!” They both laughed as Tony replied, “Ok, I promise I’ll leave her to you, although I think deep down you’re worried because after sampling my goods she may not want yours!” “Don’t you believe it Tony she can’t fucking get enough of me. I keep warning her that by the time I’m sixty she’ll have shagged me to fucking death!” “What a way to go though hey Mick, and on that note stick the kettle on, I’ll be there in fifteen minutes!” Mickey closed his phone and left the study to find the others.
His mum was playing with the triplets and Becky in the playroom while Billy and Den were over at the stables with the twins. “Tony’s popping in for a cuppa in a minute mum, he’s down this way on business.” “Ok love, shall I put the kettle on? If you watch the kids I’ll sort out the veggies for tonight while I’m at it, the chicken is already cooked. I did intend doing them this afternoon when the kids had their nap then Ann phoned and well, you know what it’s like, we just got chatting and the time flew by.” Grinning at her he replied, “What you mean is mum, you’re nothing but a pair of old gas bags!” “Cheeky bugger, I’ll make the tea shall I.”
Back at the cottage it was just turned half four when Maria and Jess had everything where they wanted it. “Shall we have a cup of tea before we go home Jess?” “Good idea, but will they mind having the kids, after all we’ve been out all day!” “No of course they won’t, actually it’s been nice to have a day off and let’s be honest it’s not something we do all the time. Although maybe we should go out occasionally, even if we just pop in to Maidstone once every six weeks and get our hair done and go out for lunch.” “That would be lovely, who knows by then the council may give me a flat in Maidstone,” said Jess as she placed two cups of tea down on the table. Maria smiled and said, “Don’t worry about the council; I think Mickey might have a property coming vacant soon that might suit you. I’ll mention it to him tonight then I can tell you tomorrow because I expect we’ll be in bed when you get home.” Immediately she noticed Jess’s expression change from happy to concern. Looking at her Maria said, “Can I ask you something personal?” “Yes.” “You do want to go out with Billy don’t you. I know he’s looking forward to it.” Jess picked up her cup and sipped her tea then nervously replied, “Yes I do want to go but,” she stopped and sipped her tea again. Maria knew that something was obviously bothering her so she said, “You don’t seem to keen on the
idea, I hope you don’t feel we pressured you into going?” “No it’s not that, its just Billy’s quite a lot older than me and he has lots of girlfriends. I’ve never even had a boyfriend!” “Do you think he’s too old then, or is there more to this Jess? I just get the feeling that you’re afraid of something; you know you can talk to me about anything don’t you?” At that moment Maria noticed she looked tearful. Genuinely concerned she reached across the table and touched Jess’s hand as she said, “What’s wrong sweetheart, can I help you?” “Oh Maria you’ve been so kind to me, you must think I’m stupid but I’ve never told anyone about Becky’s dad, not even my mum.” “Well it sounds to me like you need to talk to someone because there’s obviously something very wrong. I’ve got to ask Jess, is Becky your step fathers?” “God no! Although I hate him, it would be easier if she was, at least people would believe me then.” Maria poured them another tea; as she sat down she said, “Do you want to talk about it Jess, maybe I can help.” Jess looked tearful as she nodded her head and said, “Mickey’s so nice, I expect you’ll find it hard to understand how I feel.” “Oh believe me you’d be surprised, we’ve all got things in our past that hurt us Jess, but sometimes you have to simply move on.” She certainly didn’t expect to hear what Jess said next as she blurted out, “I was raped, it was terrible!” Maria’s time at Nicks flashed through her mind as she momentarily relived her first day there when he had so sadistically and brutally raped her. Jess broke down into tears as Maria stood up and walked over to her and put her arm around her. “Please don’t tell anyone Maria, I don’t want him to know that he’s Becky’s dad.” “Of course I won’t, but he should pay for what he did.” “I know but he won’t and he’d have Becky taken away from me because of who he is, everyone would believe him and not me, please don’t tell anyone!” Maria held her as she sobbed. Too distraught to speak Jess just held onto her friend. Maria’s phone rang. At first she ignored it because it was Mickey, then Jess said, “You should answer it, it could be something about the kids. “Hi Mickey what’s up?” “Nothing’s up babe, we’re worried it’s nearly six, mum’s cooked dinner.” “Tell her I’m sorry darling but there’s just a few things we want to finish before we leave, we’ll only be another half an hour or so.” “Ok babe, just make sure Jess is back in time, Billy’s booked a table for half eight.” As the call ended Maria asked Jess if she was ok. “Yes thanks I don’t know why I went to pieces; it’s just that I don’t think I can ever have sex with anyone because of what happened, it was so painful. The only good thing to come from it was Becky.” “What did you mean Jess that people would believe him because of who he is?” “He’s a solicitor Maria, that’s why and he warned me that if I ever told anyone what he’d done he’d tell everyone that we’d been sleeping together for weeks and he would have me brought up on charges for slandering his so called good name.” “What a bastard, people like him hide behind the law, can I ask how you knew him?” “I used to walk his dog for him, my mum knew him because he was our neighbour. I never did like him, but mum said if I wanted pocket money I had to earn it. If my dad had been alive it wouldn’t have happened.” Because Jess was opening up to her Maria suggested making another pot of tea while she text Mickey to say they wouldn’t be back until seven.
