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  The friends talked for another hour and then Terry left.

  CHAPTER 3

  George and Monica had just arrived at Mickey’s, greeting the triplets with a hug as they ran to meet them at the door. “Where are the twins?” asked Monica. “Where do you think? Mickey has taken them over to the stables to saddle up the ponies ready for when the boys arrived,” replied Maria. Harry interrupted and said, “Mum, can we go over there now?” Monica smiled and said, “Of course you can sweetie. Daddy will take you while mummy has a cuppa with Aunty Maria.” The two women laughed as George said, “Wonderful! I thought I was going to have a rest this afternoon as I’m working tonight.” Laughing Monica replied, “You haven’t got to go for another five hours and you didn’t get up till half one.” “Ah yes I know, but that was just my beauty sleep darling!” They all laughed as Georgie said, “Come on dad!”

  A few minutes later George was making his way over to the stables with his sons, while Maria and Monica headed for the kitchen followed by the triplets.

  Melissa got up onto Monica’s lap. Looking at the little girl she said, “God I swear you get more beautiful every time I see you. She’s a miniature version of you Maria, just like the twins.” “Yes I know and the boys are just like Mickey.” “So is there any news on Jess and the baby yet?” “No not yet, I dare say I’ll get a frantic call from Billy when it happens like last time.” “She’s opted for a home birth hasn’t she?” “Yes, probably just as well after the way she had Billy Junior. Poor Jess, she always seems to be pregnant!” They both laughed.

  At the stables George and Mickey were talking while the four kids rode their ponies. Now all reasonably accomplished riders they could be left to ride without supervision, although both dads were keeping a watchful eye on them.

  “Was it busy at the club last night George?” asked Mickey “Yeah the place was packed by midnight. The new dancers are really bringing in the cash.” Grinning Mickey replied, “Why do you think I suggested it?” “Well you were right. I’m enjoying having a bit of time off with the family now we’ve taken on the new doormen.” “I know just what you mean, when me and Jimmy were first in the game we spent all our time working at the club. Probably why we both had failed marriages. I know Maria is happy I don’t have to go in very often.” “Is she ok about you covering for Billy when the baby’s born?” “Yeah she knows Jess will need him at home.” “Have they said anymore about moving? Only with three little kids the cottage will be a bit small.” “I think Billy’s hoping to buy the cottage next to theirs. If he can get it for a good price he could afford to knock the two into one, with the subsequent planning permission of course.” George laughed and replied, “With your contacts in the council I doubt that would be a problem.” “I know it won’t, I’ve already made enquiries. No point Billy trying to buy it if they couldn’t extend. Mind you I have wondered if I did the right thing selling the cottage to them. The asking price for the other one is two hundred and seventy five grand and it’s in a state, theirs has got to be worth a lot more.” “Ah fair play to the lad, he works hard and he’s good with his ever-growing family.” “That he is George, they make a good couple. Jess has got him right where she wants him.” “Yeah and he loves it. He was telling me he wants loads of kids, poor Jess.” “I think you’ll find she’s of the same thinking. One thing is for certain she’s not the shy, quiet timid little thing we once knew.” The two friends were interrupted by Madeline shouting, “Dad did you see me take that jump?” Despite not having seen it he replied, “I did sweetheart it was really good!” George muttered under his breath, “Pinocchio!” They both laughed.

  They had been at the stables for over an hour when Den and Mary appeared. “Hello George,” said Mary as they approached, “The girls said you were here. Me and dad thought you might like a break so we’ve come over to watch the kids while you go in for a cuppa.” “Sounds good to me George,” beamed Mickey.

  Thanking them they headed back to the house.

  When the men entered the kitchen Maria poured them a cup of tea, “There you go, I expect you could do with that,” she said as they sat down. “Great babe, what time’s dinner?” asked Mickey. “About six.” Monica interrupted them and said, “George did you tell Mickey who came into the club last night?” Shaking his head he jokingly replied, “Darling we haven’t had time to chat like you girls. We’ve been looking after all the kids!” “Oh you poor things I feel so sorry for you,” she replied sarcastically. They all laughed. After the joking stopped Mickey said, “So who was at the club then George?” “Roger Burke, do you remember he wanted to buy the club from Woody before us?” “Yeah I remember. What was he like then?” “Well I can understand why Woody didn’t want to sell to him; in my opinion he was a bit smarmy.” “So what did he say then?” “He was very complimentary over the refurbishments; he said he would have done the same if he’d bought it.” “Anything else, why was he there?” “I think he’s still looking to buy it, he was asking lots of questions about it. Cheeky bugger even asked me if we wanted to sell.” “I hope you told him to piss off.” Laughing he replied, “Well I didn’t put it quite like that, but I think he got the message.” “Do you think he was serious about wanting to buy it?” “Oh yes. Maybe my years as a copper have made me suspicious, but truth is I didn’t like him there was something about him.” “Might be an idea to check him out, it does seem a bit funny him coming to the club like that after all this time.” “I agree and I didn’t like the three blokes he brought with him either, nasty looking bastards. I was talking to Jamie about them. He knew a couple of them and according to him they’re bad news. They tried to intimidate Woody to make him sell. Jamie reckons the pool hall next door is coming up for sale; maybe that Roger is interested in it? If that’s the case it would make sense he’d want the club as well.” Mickey could see the worried look on Maria’s face. Knowing she had been reluctant to buy the club originally, he looked at George and said, “Probably just a coincidence. Let’s just keep our ears and eyes open. Regarding the pool hall next door, chances are this Roger’s simply trying his luck.”

  It wasn’t until Den and Mary returned with the kids that Maria and Monica left the room. It was then Mickey said, “I think we should check this Roger out George. I’ve dealt with this sort of thing before. It just don’t feel right him turning up now after we’ve had the place done up. Ask Jamie to talk to the old boy who owns the pool hall; find out if he is selling up. Might be a nice little investment for us if he is. ” “Sounds great Mickey but I’ve virtually borrowed to my limit as it is, and I think Billy’s in the same boat.” “Lets just find out if it’s up for grabs before we start worrying about money. There’s always a way round these things George. Just do me a favour, don’t mention it to Maria.” “Don’t worry I cottoned on earlier, she looked concerned when I said about it. Understandable when you think about it.” “Precisely George, now shall we go and find them, or she’s going to think we’re talking about that Roger.” “And she’d be right!” said George with a chuckle.

  During dinner Harry said, “Mum can we stay here tonight?” “Not tonight sweetheart, I think Aunty Maria’s got enough kids to look after without you.” “Oh go on mum, please.” George could see that he didn’t want to take no for an answer, so tactfully he said, “What about poor mum. If you stay here she’ll have no one to look after her while I’m at work?” Instantly his son replied, “She can stay too dad.” “And what about poor Scooby, he’s at home on his own?” Maria interrupted, “Yes why didn’t you bring him with you today?” “He’s had a bit of an upset stomach and we didn’t want your dogs to catch it. I think it’s probably down to something he’s eaten, he’s always picking up things when we walk him.”

  Harry was still determined to stay over so looking at his dad, he said, “Mum can go home. Scooby can look after her.” Monica told him off for keeping asking. Then she looked at Maria and said, “Sorry.” “Don’t be daft. I didn’t want to go against you two but the boys woul
d be welcome to stay.” It was at that moment all of the kids started saying, “Please!” George started laughing as he said, “Sounds like they’ll be staying darling. Why don’t I leave a bit earlier and nip home to walk Scooby then you can stay for the evening. When you do get home just let him out in the garden for a pee, I don’t want you walking him late at night.” Now it was Maria’s turn to say, “Yes go on Monica. When the kids go to bed I’m going to talk to Buzz and his family on the web cam.” “Ok then, if you’re sure. I’ll push off by midnight though because of the drive home.” Surprisingly Mickey said, “As you’ve got company babe would you mind if I popped down to the club? I’ll be back by one.” “Do you have to go Mickey?” “No babe I just thought I could check out the new doormen we’ve hired. Tonight would be a good chance to see how they’re doing, but if you don’t want me to I won’t.” Having no good reason not to let him go, she replied, “Of course you can go. I’m sorry darling it’s just that I’m used to having you here with me.” “Thanks babe, I’m sure I can think of a way to make it up to you.” “A week in the Bahamas would be nice,” she giggled. Choosing his words carefully in front of the kids he replied, “Actually I was thinking more along the lines of something later tonight? Lets just say your wish would be my command oh goddess of the house!” Maria laughed and said, “Sounds too good to be true.” “Oh believe me it would be!” “Ok you can go, but just remember I’ve got witnesses so if you don’t follow through on that promise there’ll be a forfeit.” Suggestively he replied, “Darling you know I always follow through.” Maria blushed as Monica said, “Let’s keep it clean, there are children present!” They all laughed.

  CHAPTER 4

  Belle was enjoying dinner out with Tony that evening, although she did say several times, “Are you sure the kids didn’t mind having Antonia tonight?” “Stop worrying babe. I’ve told you they don’t mind. Anyway its not as though she’s any trouble is it?” “No she’s very good, she really is adorable.” Holding her hand across the table he looked lovingly at her and said, “Just like her mum then.” Noticing she looked sad, reassuringly he said, “I mean it Belle. All our kids adore you and so they should, you’re a wonderful wife and mother.” “I know they love me Tony it’s just.” She hesitated then said, “Oh nothing, it doesn’t matter.” Squeezing her hand he said, “It does matter, what were you going to say babe?” “When she grows up and finds out I’m not her real mum do you think she’ll still love me?” “I’ve never been surer of anything, but I’ve thought the same thing about me; I expect she’ll hate me.” “Of course she won’t, she’s already a daddy’s girl. I do love her Tony as though she were my own.” “Everyone knows that babe, especially her. I know what I put you through.” Seeing the need to reassure him now she replied, “It’s all in the past Tony, none of it matters now.” “Yes it does Belle. I know what I did to you and of all people you didn’t deserve it. I just want you to know babe I really am sorry.” Looking tearful she replied, “It’s ok.” Changing the subject she said, “So, two weeks time and you’ll be the birthday boy.” “Don’t remind me babe, sixty is a pretty daunting figure.” “Rubbish, you look amazing.” “Really babe, you honestly think so?” “Yes I really think so, but you’ll always be handsome to me Tony. So have you decided what you’d like to do? Only it’s getting a bit close now.” “What could I possibly want I haven’t already got? You and the kids being with me is the best present I could have. Maybe we should all go away somewhere; Shane can look after the clubs. Maybe Carlo and Kelsey could come with us?” “That would be lovely Tony, but there must be something you’d really like for yourself? Everyone keeps asking me what they can get you.” “Honestly babe there’s nothing.” “Well Antonia has already made you something.” Looking curious he said “What?” “I’m not telling you, it’s a surprise; she’s made it at Sunday school. I’m sure you’ll love it.” “I’m sure I will.” Before she could continue her mobile rang. Tony listened as she said, “Oh hi.” He couldn’t hear who was on the phone only her side of the conversation, but it was obvious whoever had called thought he would be at the club when Belle said, “No you didn’t wake the baby, I’m not at home I’m out with Tony. No he’s not working tonight; I know I was surprised myself. So can we talk in the week? Ok thanks, speak to you soon.” When she turned off the phone she could see him staring at her. Feeling the colour rising in her cheeks she said, “Sorry that was a friend from church.” With a serious look on his face he asked, “What friend?” “Julie, I don’t think you know her.” “Does this Julie normally ring you at nine o’clock at night then?” Trying to act normal she replied, “No I don’t hear from her very often, but I’ve told her it’s best to call later because I’m usually seeing to Antonia. She knows you work Saturday night, that’s probably why she phoned tonight.” The look on his face told her he wasn’t convinced with what she’d just said. She felt relieved when the waitress came over to ask if they were ready to order dessert.

  Throughout the rest of their time at the restaurant Belle noticed Tony seemed quieter. She also thought he was looking at her differently since she’d taken the call. The last thing she wanted was an argument.

  During the drive home she felt uncomfortable because he barely spoke to her. In an effort to lighten the mood she placed her hand on his knee and said, “Thank you for a lovely evening. I really enjoy it when we go out together. I love you.” Without looking at her he replied, “Do you Belle?” Shocked she said, “You know I do.” Her stomach knotted as he replied, “That’s just it I don’t know Belle, you’ve changed.” Knowing he was picking an argument she said, “Please Tony don’t be like that. I’ve had a lovely evening so please don’t spoil it.” Then she tried to turn things around by laying some guilt on him by saying, “I know you don’t really want to be here with me, I know you like going to the club at the weekend” Angrily he snapped at her and said, “What do you mean by that?” “I didn’t mean anything and I do love it when you take me out, but I’m not stupid I know you’d rather be at the clubs.” “What’s your point Belle?” “There’s no point I’m just saying that’s all. You know I love you with all my heart but.” Without finishing what she was saying, she changed the subject and said, “Just take me home Tony then you can go out.” To her surprise he pulled over and stopped the car. Her stomach was churning as he turned to face her. Nervously she said, “Why have we stopped?” “You said but, but what Belle?” “Nothing Tony, please take me home.” “Tell me what you were going to say.” Knowing he would make an issue of it she looked tearful as she replied, “Since Antonia came into our lives things have changed. I hoped she would bring our family together and she has. The kids love it now you spend time with them. I thought things were really good between us but I know it’s not really what you want and you’re only doing it because of her. I just want you to know I accept the way you really feel. So if you really hate being stuck at home then I understand, as long as you love the kids and give them some time that’s all that matters, especially the baby. As for spending time with me it’s ok Tony, you don’t have to. I know how you feel.” Taking her hand he said, “I love you Belle, I enjoy spending time with you. I should have done it all the time.” This was her chance to dismiss any mistrust he may have of her. Smiling she said, “I hope you mean that. What I’m trying to say is I will always love you Tony, I’ll never want anyone else, but if it’s not what you want I can live with that. I could never go through how it was before we had Antonia. I don’t want you to resent having to stay home with us. I love you whether you’re there or not.”

  Leaning over he kissed her passionately. When they finished he placed his hand on her face and said, “I do want to be at home babe. Just tell me the truth, was that call from Julie?” “God Tony why would you disbelieve me?” Fumbling through her bag she took out her phone and handing it to him said, “Call her Tony.” Feeling like a real bastard he said, “Put your phone away babe. I’m just being a dick head.” Giggling she replied, “I’m used to
it.” “Come on babe let’s get home, I’m feeling horny!” Belle was relieved that he hadn’t made more of it.

  CHAPTER 5

  Mickey arrived at the M4. Brothers Jamie and Justin were on the main door. George and Billy were inside with Warren and Ricky. Standing back from the crowd that were going in, Mickey waited to speak to Jamie.

  Finally, they placed the rope back across the door although there were still several clubbers waiting to enter. “Alright lads,” said Mickey, “business looks good.” “Yeah it is. Just letting them in six at a time at this rate we’ll be full within the hour,” said Justin. “Good, that’s what I like to hear.” “Nice to have an extra pair of hands though Mickey,” said Jamie. Laughing he replied, “Not me mate, that’s why we’ve taken on the extra blokes. How are they getting on?” “Seem to be doing ok. We’ve known Alan a long time, he’s a good bloke. Don’t really know Jez, but Alan’s worked with him for years and knowing Alan he wouldn’t have vouched for him if he wasn’t any good. So is this a social call then Mick, or have you come to check up on us?” “No you’re good blokes Jamie, no need to check up on you, but I did come to talk to you. I heard Roger Burke was nosing around the club last night?” “Can’t stick the bloke personally Mick.” “George tells me he was making inquiries about the club?” “Yeah I expect he’s pissed off with you and the fact we’re taking his business. Since the other bit opened I think he’s feeling it. I have heard on the grapevine his club is not doing too well.” “So do you reckon he’ll be trouble then?” “Don’t know Mick, but to say I don’t trust him would be an understatement.” “Maybe I’ll check him out.” “I can tell you this much, he’s a bastard; everyone knows he’s into some right dodgy stuff.” “Like what?” “Like drugs, gambling, extortion. Before you came down here he was the big fish in the pond. We were all surprised when he didn’t put up more of a fight with you over this place when Woody sold it.” Justin piped in, “Now we know why you’re well above his league Mickey. Locally he’s the man but compared to you lot he’s small time.” Mickey grinned and said, “I don’t know what you mean Justin. I’m just an honest business man trying to earn a crust.” They all laughed as Justin replied, “Yeah we can see that Mickey. Just from your house and the car you drive, you must really be struggling.” They all laughed especially when Mickey replied, “I am mate, with five kids to feed times are tough!” “Oh yeah I forgot about all the kids, which private school is it they go to?” They were still laughing when someone in the queue said, “Come on Jamie hurry up and let us in, I’m meeting someone tonight.”