Chapter 43

    Everyone had settled down on the plane and was just relaxing as it made its way back to London. Chrissy could see that Callum was still thinking about something. Becky had fallen asleep so she made her way over to where he was sat cuddled up to Jayden.

     “What’s wrong Callum? And don’t tell me nothing, I can see that you’re worried about something.” Chrissy said, as she sat down next to him.

    Callum looked at Jayden, but still wouldn’t say anything to Chrissy. “If you don’t tell her, I will.” Jayden said, as she sat up and looked at Callum.

     “Have I done something to upset you Callum?” Chrissy asked looking worried.

     “No Chrissy. You’ve done nothing wrong; I just don’t know what to do about something.” Callum said, as he pulled Chrissy into a hug with him.

     “So tell me what’s bugging you, and let me see if I can help you sort it out.” Chrissy asked as she looked up at him from where her head was resting on his chest next to Jayden’s.

     “Okay here goes.” Callum said, as he took a deep breath. “My mum told me yesterday that she knows about Kara, or more she knows about my dressing up.” Callum blurted out before taking another deep breath.

     “Really? How was she about it all?” Chrissy asked, as she sat up to look Callum in the eyes.

     “She was fine with it, and she even wants to come down to London and meet Kara and also meet you.” Callum said.

     “She wants to meet me? What ever for?” Chrissy asked looking worried again. “Does she blame me for your dressing up?” Chrissy asked.

     “No silly. She wants to meet the person that got me to go home and see her again.” Callum said with a chuckle. “How could anyone hate you Chrissy?” Callum asked.

     “There’s a first time for everything.” Chrissy said with a shrug. “I still don’t see what the problem is Callum. I thought you’d be happy that your mum was okay with you being Kara some of the time.” Chrissy said with a puzzled look.

     “I am fine with that Chrissy, but she also told me that my Dad was a cross dresser, but we didn’t have time to talk about it anymore than that. So I guess I’ve got a head full of questions and no way to get any answers for the time being.” Callum said with a sigh.

     “You said she wanted to come and meet Kara, so just sort out a date for her to come down and then you can spend some time talking to her about your dad.” Chrissy said in a matter of fact way. “Will your stepdad be coming down with her when she comes?” Chrissy asked.

     “No! I don’t care if I ever see that man again for as long as I live.” Callum said through gritted teeth.

     “I’ve never met such a horrid man in my whole life.” Jayden said as she pulled a funny face. “I wanted to smash his face in when he started talking about you like he did.” Jayden added as she looked at Chrissy.

     “Why was he talking about me?” Chrissy asked.

     “Trust me Chrissy, you don’t want to know.” Jayden said, as she realised she’d just said too much already. “Let’s just say he’s not very friendly towards anyone that’s different.” Jayden added with a sigh.

     “Be very careful then around him Callum. I’ve seen what people like that can do when they feel threatened.” Chrissy said, as she thought back to what Amy’s dad tried to do to them all when he blamed Amy for his marriage failing.

     “Don’t look so worried Chrissy. I’ve got no plans to provoke him in any way.”Callum smiled as he took hold of Chrissy’s hand to calm her down, as he could see her shaking. “My mum said she’d be coming to visit on her own when she came.” Callum added.

     “I’m glad about that Callum. I don’t want to see any more of my friends get hurt.” Chrissy said, as she gave Callum a hug.

    Callum still found it strange that Chrissy felt so strongly about his well being. He thought she’d get some small amount of pleasure out of seeing him get hurt for what he did to her all those years ago, but here she was shaking as she hugged him.

     “Are you okay Chrissy?” Jayden asked, as she wrapped her arms around Chrissy and hugged her, as she hugged Callum.

     “Not really sis. I’m scared that someone will get hurt if Callum’s stepdad gets angry.” Chrissy said with a shaky voice.

     “Callum will be fine Chrissy. His stepdad is nothing but talk.” Jayden said in a dismissive way. “I’ve seen his type before. They talk big, but are very short on action.” Jayden added with a smile.

     “Do you really think so sis?” Chrissy asked, as she lifted her head to look Jayden in the eyes.

     “Yes I do Chrissy. Callum stood up to him when he started calling you names, and he soon backed down, and left the room.” Jayden said with a grin.

     “Did you really do that for me Callum?” Chrissy asked looking proud of him.

     “Yes I did Chrissy. I wasn’t going to let him get off with calling my friend names.” Callum said.

     “Thank you for doing that for me Callum.” Chrissy smiled.

     “There’s no need to thank me Chrissy. You spent too many years not having anyone to stand up for you while I picked on you, so I plan to make up for it by defending your name whenever I can.” Callum clenched his fists as he said it.

     “I don’t want to see you get in trouble, or hurt because of me Callum. I couldn’t live with that.” Chrissy said, as she put her hand on top of Callum’s, to calm him down.

     “I think someone needs to channel their inner Kara.” Jayden smiled as she looked Callum in the eyes just before she started kissing him.

    I’ll leave you two to relax then.” Chrissy said with a grin, as she watched Jayden helping Callum to calm down.

    Chrissy went back to where Becky was sleeping, and she sat back down next to her, and was soon nodding off herself. Becky must have woken up while Chrissy was sleeping, because when she woke up, she was cuddled up to Becky while Becky was sat chatting with their mum.

     “Feeling any better now baby?” Becky asked, as she helped Chrissy to sit up.

     “Not really. I ache all over.” Chrissy said with a pout, as she cuddled up to Becky again.

     “Don’t worry baby we’ll be home soon, then you can curl up in bed and get some proper sleep.” Becky said, as she wrapped an arm around Chrissy and pulled her even closer to herself.

    Becky was right about being close to home because Paul was soon asking everyone to take their seats and buckle up ready for landing. They were all soon in their seats and the plane was touching down at the airport.

    Once the plane had stopped and Mark had opened the door and helped everyone off the plane, they all went and got on the minibus while Brad and Vic loaded what bags they had into the back of the minibus. Vic got behind the wheel and they were soon heading home. It was late when they got dropped off at home so Carl and Brad were going to stop the night at Mandy’s so they dropped All them off first, then Vic took the minibus back to Mable’s with him and Holly.

     “I’ll pop round tomorrow and see how dad’s doing.” Chrissy said, as she got out the minibus when they got home.

     “Okay dear. I know your dad will like that.” Holly smiled as she gave Chrissy a hug. She got hugs off all the others as they all got out the minibus.

    Amy and Amber decided to sleep at home as well. They really didn’t like the house sitting thing after all, and it was getting late for going to Sara and Cathy’s.

    Once they had waved to Vic and Holly as they drove out of the drive at Mandy’s, they all entered the house and made their way to the kitchen, so Chrissy and Becky could make them all a drinking chocolate before they turned in for the night.

    Callum was stopping the night with Jayden, and Brad was stopping with Ann, so Ann was going to use the spare room so she could cuddle up to Brad. They all made their way up to bed and had a round of hugs with each other outside Mandy’s room and Chrissy’s room before they all went to their own room to get some sleep.

    Chrissy was glad to be crawling into her own bed when she’d finished in the bathroom. She was soon joined by Becky, and they cuddled up together and were soon fast asleep.

    Becky woke first the next morning, and she just lay in bed watching Chrissy sleep for a bit until she saw Chrissy start to wake up, then she leaned in and kissed her. Chrissy was soon wrapping her arms around Becky and prolonging the kiss for as long as she could.

     “Morning lover.” Chrissy said as she had a stretch after they stopped kissing.

     “Good morning to you my little sleeping beauty.” Becky said in return, just before she leaned in and kissed her again. “Do you feel like taking a long soak in a nice hot bubble bath this morning?” Becky asked.

     “That sound like a great idea baby.” Chrissy purred.

    Becky was soon sliding out of bed and heading to the bathroom to start filling the bath with water. Chrissy followed her into the bathroom looking half asleep still. She walked over to Becky and wrapped her arms around her and stood hugging her while the bath filled up.

     “You feeling okay baby?” Becky asked, as she made the most of the hug.

     “I’m fine, just a little sad that I have to get back to work today.” Chrissy said with a pout. “I’d really like to go and spend some time with mum and dad instead.” She added with a big sigh.

     “I’m sure that Mandy and Amy would be fine with you taking an extra day off to go and spend it with you mum and dad if you asked them.” Becky said, as she turned around to look Chrissy in the eyes as she hugged her.

     “I’m sure they would, but I’m also not sure that I can cope with seeing my dad just fade away from me.” Chrissy got out, just before she burst into tears.

    Becky knew that it was hard on Chrissy knowing that her dad was dying, but she didn’t know how to fix it, because there was no fix for it. Becky knew that this is something that Chrissy was going to have to face head on. “I know its hard baby, but you need to spend as much time with him while you can.”

     “I wish he’d never patched things up with me now.” Chrissy said in an angry tone of voice, as she pulled away from Becky.

     “You don’t really mean that Chrissy, and you know it.” Becky said, as she pulled Chrissy back into the hug they were having.

     “Why don’t I?” Chrissy asked as she buried her head in Becky’s shoulder again.

     “Because I know you and this is your way of dealing with it.” Becky said in a softer tone as she stroked Chrissy’s hair. “I know you feel bad now, but just think how you’d feel if you just got a call from your mum one day saying that he’d died and you never got the chance to make peace with him.” Becky added.

    Chrissy let Becky hug her as she thought about what Becky had just said, and she was right, the thought of not making things right with her dad would have been worse. “Trust you to use logic when all I want to do is live in my happy place.” Chrissy said with a pout as they broke the hug.

     “We will all miss your dad when he dies baby, but we will move on and lean on each other, and also be there to help your mum get through it.” Becky said with a sad look as she stroked the side of Chrissy’s face where a tear was just rolling down. “So are you going to ask Mandy for the day off then?”

     “No, but I will ask if we can call in on the way to work and see how they are doing. Then I can ask Mandy to drop me off on the way home from work, so I can spend a little more time with them then. I hope you don’t mind?” Chrissy asked, as she looked deep into Becky’s eyes.

     “I don’t mind at all baby. I’ll miss spending so much time with you, but I have you for a long time to come, where as your dad doesn’t.” Becky smiled, just before pulling Chrissy into another hug.

    The bath was soon full, so they both stripped off their night clothes and slid into the water. Chrissy got in first and then helped Becky to relax in the water with her head resting between Chrissy’s breasts. Chrissy couldn’t stop running her hands over Becky’s little bump of a belly.

     “Will you still love me when I look as big as Debbie does?” Becky asked as she lay with her eyes shut enjoying Chrissy’s soft touch on her belly.

    Chrissy never gave an answer, she just twisted round so she could give Becky a long deep kiss. “Does that answer your question my love.” Chrissy said as they broke the kiss.

    Becky just looked into Chrissy’s eyes and smiled as she said, “Yes.”

    Mandy and Carl were both sat in the kitchen looking at different parts of the paper when they saw Amy and Amber enter the kitchen.

    “Good morning Amy, Amber.” Carl said with a smile, as he watched the two of them walk over to the kitchen table where they were sat.

    “Morning Carl, Mandy.” Both girls said as they walked over and gave them both a hug before going to make a start on some breakfast for them all.

     “Morning Amy, Amber. I’m sorry that your house sitting got side tracked.” Mandy said as she put the paper down, so she could chat with them while they made breakfast.

     “Don’t worry about it sis. Amber and I weren’t having much fun anyway.” Amy said with a sad look as she turned to look at Mandy.

     “Why not? I thought you would enjoy getting some time with just the two of you.” Mandy asked with a puzzled look.

     “Amber and I have both spent so much time alone, that we missed being able to do this for you all, and just being part of a large group of people.” Amy waved her hands around the kitchen as she said it.

     “I know what you mean Amy. I shudder when I think back to how I use to live in this house all on my own. I’m not sure how I stayed sane.” Mandy said with a giggle.

     “I’m not too sure you did princess.” Carl said with a chuckle from the side of her.

     “Hey!” Mandy said, as she spun in her chair and tried to give Carl a slap, but he was ready for it, and pinned her arms at her side, as he started kissing her.

     “Sane girls are boring; I love the really crazy ones myself.” Carl said between kisses.

    Amy and Amber just stood over near the fridge giggling as they watched Mandy go from struggling to get away from Carl so she could hit him, to wrapping her arms around him and enjoying the kiss and cuddle he was giving her.

    Callum and Jayden walked into the room at that moment and they stopped and watched the free floor show for a couple of seconds before they walked over to the table and took their seats. They both waited for Carl and Mandy to finish kissing before they said anything.

     “Morning everyone.” Jayden said with a smile, as she first looked at Carl and Mandy, then she turned to look at Amy and Amber.

     “Yes, morning everyone.” Callum added as he also looked at everyone as he helped Jayden take her seat at the kitchen table.

     “Morning Jayden, Callum. I trust you both had a good night’s sleep?” Mandy asked with a grin.

     “Yes we both had a really great night.” Jayden said with a red face.

     “I’m sure you did Jayden, but did you get any sleep?” Carl asked with a knowing look at Callum, and then Jayden again.

     “We got some sleep.” Jayden said in a whisper as she sorted out a cup of tea for her and Callum.

    Carl just let out a chuckle as he wrapped his arms around Mandy again, just before he pulled her closer for another kiss.

    Ann and Brad were the next to turn up. Brad helped Ann take her seat before he sat down next to her and then made her a cup of tea.

     “Morning Brad, Ann.” Mandy said, as she watched Ann put the cup to her lips, and then take a long slow drink from the cup.

     “Morning everyone.” Ann said, as she let out a sigh to let them all know how much she needed that first drink of tea.

     “Feel ready to talk to us now Ann?” Mandy asked with a grin.

     “Yes, good morning everyone. Yes I really needed that this morning.” Ann said with a smile. “Thank you babe.” Ann added as she leaned over and gave Brad a quick kiss for pouring her a drink out.

     “Morning Everyone.” Brad said, as he looked around the room at them all. “You know I’d do anything for my little princess.” Brad added just before kissing Ann back.

     “Morning sis!” Amy said, as she ran over and wrapped her arms around Ann from behind. Amy knew better that to try and get between Ann and her first cup of tea in the morning, so she always waits until she speaks to run over and give her a hug.

     “Morning Baby sister. How are you feeling today?” Ann asked, as she looked up and then kissed Amy on the cheek.

     “Amber and I are both doing fine sis. How about you and Brad? Not too tired to eat breakfast I hope?” Amy asked with a grin, as she looked at each of them.

     “I could never be too tired for one of your breakfasts Amy.” Brad said with a grin.

     “I’m glad to hear that Brad because you’ll be having one soon enough.” Amy smiled back at him. “Full English okay for all of you?” Amy asked as she looked around the table at them all.

    Amy got nods and yes’s from everyone, so she ran off to carry on helping Amber sort it out. They were soon joined by Chrissy and Becky. Chrissy was already dressed for work, which earned her a funny look for Mandy and Amy.

     “Morning Everyone.” Chrissy said, as she walked over and hugged Mandy, just before she gave everyone else a hug at the table. Then she walked over and hugged Amy and Amber.

     “Morning sis. Why are you already dressed for work?” Mandy asked as she watched her finish hugging Amy.

     “I’m going to head round and see how mum and dad are doing before I come in to work, so I was hoping you didn’t mind picking me up on the way later?” Chrissy asked looking hopeful.

     “No I won’t pick you up Chrissy, but I will come with you and see how they are doing myself.” Mandy said with a smile.

    Chrissy looked upset for a second until Mandy said the last bit, and then she started smiling as well. “So you don’t mind taking the little side trip then sis?” Chrissy asked.

     “Not at all. I want to make sure that mum and dad are okay, and Carl is getting a lift from Vic, so I was always planning to let you spend a little time with your mum and dad this morning anyway.” Mandy said with a grin.

    Chrissy let a grin spread across her face as she ran around the table and jumped on Mandy’s knee just before she started hugging her like mad. “Thank you sis, thank you sis.” Chrissy kept saying as she hugged her.

     “You’re welcome baby sister.” Mandy said, as she hugged Chrissy back. “I was thinking of calling in on the way home as well, just so you can spend a little time with your mum and dad then as well. That is if Becky doesn’t mind?” Mandy asked, as she looked over to where Becky was now giving Amy and Amber a hug good morning.

     “I don’t mind at all Mandy. I want Chrissy to spend as much time with her parents as she can get.” Becky said as she now made her way over to help Chrissy get back off Mandy’s knee, so she could help her take a proper seat at the table.

     “What you doing baby? I want to help sort out breakfast.” Chrissy said, as she saw where Becky was leading her.

     “Not dressed like that my love. You can sit and chat with the others while Amy, Amber and I get breakfast ready this morning.” Becky said, just before leaning down and kissing Chrissy. “You can help tomorrow when you don’t come down for breakfast dressed for work in one of your best business suits.” Becky added with a grin when she stopped kissing her.

     “Okay, point taken.” Chrissy said with a pout, as she watched Becky turn and walk over to help Amy and Amber with breakfast.

     “So you won’t be needing a lift to the hotel then today Carl?” Ann asked just after taking another sip from her cup.

     “No, I want to see what Mable got sorted out for Greg at her place, and then I can get a lift in with Vic after.”

     “I can come and give you a hand Carl, if you think there might be some heavy lifting involved.” Brad said wanting to be helpful.

     “Thanks for the offer Brad, but I think everything should be okay.” Carl said as he picked up the fresh cup of tea Mandy just poured out for him.

     “Well you have my number if you do need me.” Brad said. “Make sure Holly has it as well just in case she needs me. You better make sure she has Frank’s number too, just in case she can’t get hold of me.” Brad added.

     “I’ll make sure she’s got them both Brad.” Chrissy said with a smile on her face. Chrissy was proud to have friends like Brad who were willing to drop everything to help out her mum and dad. “Thanks Brad for everything you do for me and my family.” Chrissy added as she reached across the table to hold Brad’s hand. Brad just smiled at her, as he put his other hand on top of hers and dwarfed it. Chrissy’s hand looked like that of a child lost in his grip.

     “It’s my family too Chrissy, but I’d do anything for you, and you know it.” Brad said with a grin, as he took a quick look at Ann sat next to him. Brad knew that the main reason that he was now with Ann was down to Chrissy pushing the two of them together, which is something he wasn’t going to forget any time soon.

    Amy, Amber and Becky soon had breakfast ready and on the table, so they all sat eating, as they formed a plan so they could all help Holly look after Greg through the day. Becky was going to pop round and spend a couple of hours with them later in the morning. Then she would return home and go back to bed for a couple of hours before getting up and starting dinner. Amber, Ann and Jayden said they would call in as much as they could to help out.

    Once breakfast was done with, Mandy and Amy ran off to get ready for work, while Becky sat with Chrissy. Becky was going to sort out the breakfast dishes after Chrissy had left to go and see her mum and dad. Ann and Jayden had both come down dressed for work, so they left to head off to work. Jayden said good bye to Callum outside the house, while Ann did the same with Brad. Then Ann and Jayden stood and waved at the guys as they drove off. Brad in his truck and Callum in his car. They both got in Ann’s car and set off themselves then.

    Becky was sat on Chrissy’s knee talking to Carl when Mandy and Amy walked back into the kitchen. Becky got up off of Chrissy’s knee and then helped Chrissy to stand up so they could see about getting off. Mandy and the others went to the car to give Chrissy a couple of minutes to say a private goodbye to Becky. Chrissy didn’t play around with Becky to long, as she wanted to get round to see her mum and dad. Becky waved to them all as Mandy drove out the drive way, then she went in the house and made a start on doing the dishes so she could go and get dressed, so she could go and spend some time with Holly and Greg.

Chapter 44

    Mandy had no sooner pulled up outside Mable’s, and Chrissy was out the car and running up the drive and ringing the doorbell. She smiled and gave Mable a hug when she opened the door to her.

     “Good morning Chrissy, You’re looking very professional this morning.” Mable said, as she stepped back to get a better look at her.

     “Good morning Mable. Thank you. We’re on our way to work, but Mandy said I could spend a little time with my mum and dad before we do.” Chrissy said with a smile. “Are they up and about yet?” Chrissy asked looking hopeful.

     “Yes their both sat in the dining room. We’ve just had breakfast, and I was about to make a fresh pot of tea. Do you want to join us for a cup?” Mable asked.

     “I’d love a cup Mable. Do you want me to go and sort it out for you?” Chrissy asked.

     “No, I can sort it; you go and spend some time with your mum and dad.” Mable stepped aside to let Chrissy go and find her mum and dad, while she greeted Amy, Carl and Mandy.

     “Good morning Mable. I swear you look younger every time I see you.” Carl smiled, as he reached Mable and gave her a hug.

     “Get away with you.” Mable giggled as she hugged him back.

     “I mean every word I just said Mable.” Carl said with his hand on his heart when they broke the hug.

     “Stop trying to chat Mable up, and let me say good morning to her.” Mandy said, as she pushed Carl aside so she could give Mable a hug. “Good morning Mable. How are the new guest’s doing?” Mandy asked.

     “They’re both doing fine. Holly pretty much took over cooking breakfast this morning. It was just like having Chrissy back here.” Mable said with a giggle. “I can sure see where Chrissy get’s her cooking skills from now.” Mable added with a grin.

     “Do you think they’ll have any trouble settling in then Mable?” Mandy asked.

     “If this morning is anything to go by, I don’t think so.” Mable said, as she led them all into the house to find Chrissy and the others. Mable let Carl and Mandy wonder off in front, so she could say good morning to Amy, who had been quiet up to now. “Good morning Amy. You’re looking just as smart as Chrissy does. How are you doing my dear?”

     “Good morning Mable. I’m doing just fine.” Amy said, as she wrapped her arms around Mable and gave her a hug.

     “Did you and Amber enjoy house sitting for Sara and Cathy? It must have been nice to finally get some time for just the two of you?” Mable asked, as they started walking towards the dining room again.

     “Not really Mable. We thought it would, but when we finally got it, we just missed all the others.” Amy said with a pout. “I was telling Mandy earlier that Amber and I have spent that much time alone, we love being around the others to much now.” Amy smiled.

     “I can understand that Amy. So you’re not going to be stopping there tonight then?” Mable asked.

     “Sara and Cathy get back tomorrow, so there’s no point.” Amy said, as they finally made it to the dining room.

    Chrissy had got to the dining room and found her dad chatting to David and Vic about football, while Holly was sat helping Cathleen finish off her homework.

     “Hello dear. I didn’t think we’d be seeing you today.” Holly said, as she held out her arms, so she could give Chrissy a hug.

     “Hi mum. Mandy was dropping Carl off, so we thought we’d come and spend a little time with you and dad.” Chrissy said, as she gave her mum a hug.

     “Aunty Chrissy, Aunty Chrissy! Is Aunty Amy with you?” Cathleen asked, as she held out her arms to get a hug as well.

     “Hello Cathleen. Yes Amy is here as well, she should be coming in any minute.” Chrissy said, as she hugged Cathleen while she looked over towards the door where she’d just seen Mandy and Carl enter.

    Cathleen slid off her seat and ran over to Amy when she saw her enter the room with Mable at her side. “Hello Aunty Amy. Have you both come to play with me?” Cathleen asked with a grin.

     “I’d love to play with you Cathleen, but it looks like you’re ready for school.” Amy said, as she crouched down to look at Cathleen in her school uniform.

     “I’ll take day off and play with you instead.” Cathleen said in a matter of fact way, as she started pulling Amy up to where all her toys were kept.

     “I don’t think your mummy will let you get away with that Cathleen, and I have to go to work.” Amy said with a pout.

     “Cathleen dear, you need to come and finish this homework off. You’re already in trouble with you mummy because you didn’t do it last night.” Holly said from the dining table where Cathleen’s books were still sat.

     “Did you not do your homework last night Cathleen?” Amy asked with a shocked look.

     “No I forget, and mummy tell me off this morning for it.” Cathleen said looking sad as she made her way back over to the table.

     “Do you want me to help you do your homework Cathleen?” Amy asked, as she helped her get back on her seat.

     “Will you do it for me Aunty Amy?” Cathleen asked looking hopeful.

     “No, but I will help you do it, that is if my mummy is okay with me helping you.” Amy said, as she looked at Holly to get her okay to help Cathleen instead of her.

     “I don’t mind at all Amy dear. I was just helping out so Jenna could go and finish getting ready for work.” Holly said, as she got up and gave Amy a quick hug before letting her sit down and carry on helping Cathleen do her homework.

     “Hi Dad, David, Vic.” Chrissy said as she waved at them all.

     “Hello Chrissy. You come to see if your old man is still with the land of the living then?” Greg said with a chuckle.

     “Dad! Don’t speak like that.” Chrissy said in a shocked tone of voice.

     “There’s no point mopping round pretending it’s not going to happen.” Greg said. “Death and taxes are the two guarantees in life.” Greg added with another chuckle.

     “Well let me give you a hug then while I still can, if that’s how you feel about it.” Chrissy said with a smile, as she tried to put a brave face on how she was really feeling about it all.

     “Thanks for coming to see me dear. It means a lot seeing you take the time to come and check up on your old man.” Greg said, as he gave Chrissy a hug.

     “Do you need anything dad?” Chrissy asked, as she sat down next to her dad at the dining table.

     “I could really use a cup a tea. These dam pills they got me taking give me a right woolly mouth.” Greg said, as he slapped his lips together and pulled a funny face.

     “I’m just on my way to make you one now Greg.” Mable said, as she wandered past the table on her way to the kitchen.

     “Do you want any help Mable?” Holly asked, as she went to get up.

     “No, you stop and spend some time with your daughters.” Mable said, as she looked at Chrissy, Amy and Mandy.

     “Yes mum.” Holly said with a grin. Mable just giggled, as she wandered off into the kitchen.

     “How you feeling now mum?” Chrissy asked, as she cuddled up to her mum at the table while they waited for Mable to get back with the tea.

     “I’m feeling much better now dear. I know we’ve made the right choice, and David has been a great help with getting your father up and down the stairs.” Holly smiled at David as she said it.

     “I’m glad to help any time Holly. You just need to ask.” David said with a nod from the other side of the table.

     “Oh speaking of help. Brad told me to give you his and Frank’s numbers, so you can give them a call if you ever need anything.” Chrissy said, as she got a piece of paper out her purse and handed it to her mum.

     “That’s nice of them dear, but I don’t want to be a bother to anyone.” Holly said as she looked at the phone numbers on the paper.

     “Trust me holly when I say that it’s no trouble at all. Both Frank and Brad would be angry with you if they ever found out you struggled to do something and never called them, and with this lot keeping an eye on the two of you. I’m sure they would soon find out.” Carl said with a grin as he looked around the room.

     “I better remember to call them then. I’d hate to make either of them angry with me.” Holly said looking a little worried.

     “They can help give you lifts places, and I’ll leave you a number for the car service at the hotel just in case you can’t get hold of them or anyone else.” Carl said, as he pulled a card out his pocket and passed it over to Holly. “Just quote the number on the back of the card when you’ve called the number on the front, and they will send a car to pick you up and take you where ever you need to go, and then wait to bring you back, or take you somewhere else.” Carl added with a smile.

     “Is it a private taxi service then Carl?” Holly asked, as she looked at the posh looking card in her hand.

     “Something like that Holly, but they mainly just drive business people back and forth from the hotel to whatever meeting they need to get to.” Carl said with a wave of his hand.

     “It sounds very expensive Carl.” Holly said looking worried about the cost.

     “It won’t cost you a penny Holly. That’s why I gave you that card, and as soon as you tell them the number on the back, they will send a car to you right away. It’s a VIP card, and you are a very important person indeed.” Carl said with a bow of his head.

     “Thank you Carl, and thank you to everyone else for all the help you’re willing to give me and Greg.” Holly said with a tear in her eye.

    Chrissy pulled her mum into a tighter hug and let her rest her head on her should while she pulled herself back together. Greg just sat next to Chrissy smiling when he saw that Holly would really be okay after he was gone. He was proud of everything Chrissy had managed to achieve since leaving home. Greg could never say he was proud of anything that Chris his son ever did, but he still loved him with all his heart, but he was very proud of his daughter, and all that she had done. Greg was snapped out of his daydreaming when he heard Chrissy speaking to him.

     “Are you okay dad?” Chrissy asked when she saw the faraway look in his eyes, and a tear running down his cheek. Chrissy wiped away the tear and gave him a sad looking smile.

     “As okay as I can be given the circumstances.” Greg said with a grin. “I was just thinking how proud of you I am.” Greg added, as he held out his arms to give Chrissy a hug.

     “I never thought I’d hear you say that to me dad.” Chrissy giggled as she started to cry on her dads shoulder.

     “I should have told you that a long time ago Chrissy, but I am very proud to call you my daughter, and be able to call all your friends my daughters as well.” Greg hugged Chrissy a little harder as he said it.

     “Better late than never dad, better late than never.” Chrissy said with a sigh as she enjoyed the hug with her father.

    Mable came back into the room carrying a tray with a couple of pots of tea on it, so Chrissy got up and then set about making everyone a cup. Greg was happy to be getting his, and he seemed to drink over half of it in his first swallow.

     “Thank you Chrissy that really hit the spot.” Greg said with a sigh, as he put the cup back down on the table.

    Mable took a seat at the table, and then took the cup of tea that Chrissy offered her. Mable always liked the way Chrissy just took over serving people their drinks whenever she comes around to visit. “Thank you Chrissy, you’re a true angel my dear.” Mable smiled at her.

     “Thanks Mable, but I’m far from being an angel.” Chrissy said with a grin.

     “You should let others be the judge of that dear.” Mable said with a raised eyebrow.

     “Did you manage to get everything sorted out for the downstairs bedroom for Greg yesterday Mable?” Carl asked when she and Chrissy had stopped talking to each other.

     “Yes they will be back today to start putting things in place. We were lucky because Prue was here when they came, and she told them what she was looking for.” Mable giggled when she thought about Prue bossing the person around when he came to see what was needed. “The poor man tried to tell us what we needed, but Prue wasn’t having any of it.” Mable added with more giggles.

     “That sounds like mum alright.” Mandy said with a smile. She knew only too well how her mum could be when she knows what she wants.

     “Prue’s coming over later today, so she can sit and have a chat with Holly and sort out what care she needs to help make life a little easier on everyone. She also wants to get Greg booked in for some tests as well to make sure he’s on all the proper medication.” Mable said, as she looked at Holly more than anyone else.

     “I’ve already spoke to Prue about getting Greg the best care we can. She told me that she’d been speaking to some people that were looking at knew drugs just out on the market.” Carl said, as he looked at Holly and then Mable. “Just do whatever Prue tells you to Holly, and don’t worry about the cost of anything, and if you need anything at all, then give me a call, or just let Chrissy know, and I will sort it out.” Carl added in a firm voice to let holly know that he wasn’t even going to let her argue with him about it.

    Holly could tell that by the look in his eyes, so she just smiled and then said, “I will Carl, and thank you again for doing all this.”

     “No need to thank me Holly, you’re family now.” Carl said with a grin as he looked at Chrissy cuddled up to her dad.

    Everyone turned to look at the door to the dining room from the hallway when they heard the clicking of heels on the marble hallway floor. They all smiled when they saw Jenna and Kim walk into the room.

     “Wow, full house.” Jenna said as she looked around the room. “Good morning everyone.” Jenna added with a smile.

     “Morning Jenna, Kim.” Everyone said to them.

     “Morning.” Kim said, as she walked over to where Chrissy was sat with her dad. “How you doing shrimp?” Kim asked, as she gave Chrissy a hug from behind.

     “Hey! We can’t all look like an Amazon princess you know.” Chrissy giggled, as she took the hug from Kim.

     “I think I might have to tickle you for that little comment shrimp.” Kim said, just before attacking Chrissy with her fingers.

    Chrissy tried to stop Kim, but she was giggling too much to stop her, and she was soon sliding off the chair, and would have ended up on the floor, but Kim stopped her and sat her back on the chair again.

     “You don’t fight fair Kim.” Chrissy said, as she got her breath back and playfully slapped Kim on the arm as she hugged her.

     “I’m an Amazon princess, so I do whatever it takes to win shrimp.” Kim said with a grin, as she hugged Chrissy once more before letting her go and then going to sit with David for a little bit before he left to head off to work. Kim was stopping at home until Prue came, and then they would head into the surgery together later. Prue couldn’t see the point of Kim leaving home, just to be taken back again later in the day.

     “How are you doing with your homework Cathleen?” Jenna asked, as she looked over Cathleen and Amy’s shoulders to look at what Cathleen was doing.

     “I’ve nearly finished mummy.” Cathleen said sounding a little worried that her mummy was still mad with her. “Will you let me watch the cartoons now when I get home later?” Cathleen asked.

     “No. I told you that you are being punished for not telling me yesterday that you had some homework to do. So you will just have to find something else to do when you get home from school.” Jenna said. Not happy that she needed to punish her daughter, but Jenna knew that Cathleen would never learn if she didn’t punish her when she did something wrong.

     “Okay mummy, I understand. I am sorry for being bad girl.” Cathleen said, as she looked down at the table in front of her.

    Jenna just wanted to hug her daughter, but knew she had to be strong and let her sulk for the time being. Vic looked at Jenna and smiled to let her know he knew how she was feeling, and he was proud that she wasn’t going to give in and let her off.

     “Thanks for helping Cathleen get her homework done Amy. I never would have been ready in time to get to work if you and Holly hadn’t been around.

     “Holly, I mean mum did most of it with her, I just stepped in at the last minute to help Cathleen finish it off.” Amy said, as she pulled Cathleen into a hug to try and cheer her up a little bit.

    Jenna just smiled even more when she saw Amy hug Cathleen. It was a simple way to make Cathleen feel better without Jenna giving in and hugging her herself. “We really do need to stop you spending so much time with Chrissy. You’re getting more and more like her when someone tries to pay you a complement.” Jenna said with a giggle, as she gave Amy a quick hug, just after she stopped hugging Cathleen.

     “I can live with them sort of bad habits Jenna.” Amy said with a grin as she looked over at Chrissy sat cuddled up between her mum and dad.

     “Just as long as you don’t start running off on holidays without telling any of us first. You’ll be fine Amy.” Jenna said with a grin as she looked at Chrissy.

    Chrissy just looked at Jenna like she was about to say something, but then just looked down at her own lap as she realised that she would never live down her running away. Chrissy was soon looking up again though when she felt someone hug her from behind. She soon found out that it was Jenna hugging her.

     “I’m sorry Chrissy. That was just a bad joke. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.” Jenna said as she hugged her a little tighter.

     “Don’t worry about it Jenna. If I’m going to do silly things, then I have to expect people to make fun of me for it.” Chrissy said, as she let Jenna hug her.

     “It was a silly thing you did Chrissy, but no one is making fun of you. We just like to tease you every now and then.” Jenna gave Chrissy another quick squeeze before letting her go again. “Still friends?” Jenna asked with a pout.

     “Always Jenna.” Chrissy said with a smile.

     “That’s okay then.” Jenna said with a smile back at Chrissy, just before she went and sat on Vic’s knee for a couple of minutes before she needed to leave and get Cathleen dropped off at school.

    Mandy looked at her watch and realised that they needed to see about getting to work, or they would never have the orders ready for when they turned up from the changing service at the hotel. “I’m sorry Chrissy, but we really do need to see about making a move and getting to work.” Mandy said with a sad look at Chrissy, as she watched her sat between her mum and dad. “We can call in on the way home and spend a little more time with them tonight if you want?” Mandy asked, as she tried to think of some way to cheer Chrissy up a little bit.

     “I’d like that Sis. Thank you.” Chrissy said, just before giving her mum and dad a hug. “I’ll see you both later then. Just call me if you need anything.” Chrissy added as she broke the hug with her mum.

     “I will dear, but it sounds like we pretty much have it covered though. Holly said with a giggle, as she thought about all the numbers and people she now had willing to help her take care of Greg.

     “Well you can always just call for a natter if you like.” Chrissy said looking hopeful that her mum would feel the need to call and chat to her at some point in the day.

     “Now that I will do. I very often find myself at a loose end when your father has a nap, but Mable and I were talking about doing some baking. I hear that you all like the apple pies that Mable makes, and she said she’d show me her secrets.” Holly said with a grin.

     “You can never have enough apple pies.” Carl said with a grin when he heard the magic words being spoken.

     “Mable was telling me that you can’t get enough of her homemade apple pies Carl.” Holly giggled.

     “Mable’s apple pie is that good, I’ve told her a number of times I’d add it to the menu at the hotel if she could make enough of them for me.” Carl said, as he looked at Mable like he had a number of times in the past.

     “Maybe with Holly here to help me Carl, I might be able to look at doing that now.” Mable said with a grin. Mable’s goal was to get Holly doing something that would help keep her busy when she wasn’t looking after Greg. With all the people willing to help out, Mable knew that Holly would have a little more free time to find other things to do.

     “I will tell you now that I will take as many as you can make.” Carl said looking excited.

     “Well give us a couple of days to get Holly and Greg settled in, then we’ll see what we can do,” Mable said with a smile.

    Chrissy gave her mum and dad a final hug before she left the house and got in Mandy’s car and headed off to the shop, so they could make a start on what was going to be a very busy day for the three of them.

    Becky had gone back into the kitchen and got all the dishes washed and dried after waving Chrissy and the others off at the front door, then she decided to go up and get the bags unpacked that her and Chrissy had used on the trip back up to sort out her mum and dad’s move.

    The bag they’d used was one of the bags that Chrissy had brought while she was away, so Becky wasn’t shocked when she found a small pile of fashion magazines in the bottom of it when she’d taken all the clothes out.

     “No wonder this bag weighed so much.” Becky said to herself as she pulled the magazines out so she could fold the bag up and put it away.

    As Becky was putting the magazines on the bed out the way, she saw an a4 size envelope slide out from between a couple of the magazines. She put the bag back down, and then picked up the envelope and looked to see what was in it. Becky looked a bit puzzled when she saw a set of photos, but she didn’t recognise the woman in them. The woman was dressed in a school girl uniform just like the one Chrissy had worn while working at St.Trinian’s, but Becky didn’t remember seeing her while they were there, and why would Chrissy have a set of photos anyway. Becky thought the girl looked cute, but she was beginning to worry that maybe Chrissy had a little romance while she was away. It had worried Becky all the time Chrissy was missing, that she might have found another woman to fill the hole Becky must have left. Looking at the photos made Becky wonder if this might be the woman that did that.

    The girl had a short pixie style hair cut in a flame red colour, and she had her lip pierced and a lot of piercings in her ears. The girl also had the most amazing bright blue eyes. Becky thought she had a gothic punk look about her. Not the sort of girl Chrissy would be looking to go out with, but then again, Chrissy was in a dark place, so she could have been thinking anything at the time she’d have met this girl.

     “Don’t start thinking like that.” Becky said to herself as she shook her head from side to side. “Chrissy would never do something like that.” Becky added, as she put the photos back in the envelope and then slid them back between the magazines before putting the magazines away.

    Becky got back to sorting out the clothes and put most of them in the wash basket, then she set about getting ready to go and see how Holly and Greg were settling in at Mable’s, but she found herself thinking about the girl in the photos, and she was soon back in their bedroom grabbing the photos and heading back down to see if she could find any shots of her on the St.Trinian’s web site. Becky spent over half an hour looking all through the web site, but she couldn’t find one photo of a cute red head working at the club. Looking at the time, Becky decided to have a word with Jayden later, and see if the girl might have started at the club after the web site was sorted out, and whether or not Chrissy might have shown an interest in another girl.

    Even though Becky had told herself not to let it worry her, and there must be a valid reason for Chrissy having the photos, she was still getting worked up at the thought of Chrissy having a fling with some gothic pixie while she was away.

    Becky got in her car and set off towards Mable’s and decided to spend some time with Holly and Greg in some attempt to take her mind of what Chrissy might have got up to while she was away. She pulled up outside Mable’s and noticed that Prue was here, as her car was parked on the driveway, so Becky got out and took a deep breath before going up the driveway and ringing the bell.

     “Hello Becky. Come in, come in.” Mable said as she stepped aside to let Becky enter the house before she gave her a hug. “How are you feeling dear?” Mable asked, as she put a hand on Becky’s little lump of a belly.

     “Hi Mable. We’re all doing fine.” Becky smiled, as she also put her hands on her belly.

     “It’s really starting to show now isn’t it?” Mable said as she looked up from Becky’s belly to look her in the eyes with a smile on her face. “Are you sure that everything is okay dear? You don’t look very happy about something.” Mable asked looking worried all of a sudden.

     “Yes I’m fine Mable. It’s just been a busy couple of weeks with the wedding and then the sorting out with Chrissy’s mum and dad.” Becky said with a sigh. “It’s nice to just come over and relax with you for an hour or so.” Becky added as she wrapped an arm around Mable’s waist and led her back to the dining room where she knew the others would be.

    Holly was just pouring out a cup of tea for Prue, Kim and Greg when Becky and Mable walked back into the room.

     “Hello Becky. You’re just in time for a cup of tea if you want one?” Holly asked with a smile.

     “Hi everyone. That would be great mum, thanks.” Becky said as she took the seat that Mable offered her.

     “Hello dear. I hope you didn’t over do it while you were helping Holly pack everything away over the past couple of days?” Prue asked, as she patted Becky on the hand.

     “No mum, Brad and the others wouldn’t let me do much at all. I was more of a supervisor than a worker.” Becky said with a grin, as she took the cup of tea off Holly. “Thanks mum.” Becky added as she looked at Holly.

    Becky liked the idea that she got to call two people mum now, whereas at one point she didn’t even have one. Becky also loved how they both wanted to make sure she wasn’t over doing anything while she was pregnant either.

     “Holly was just telling us that Brad was doing most the heavy lifting while you were up there.” Prue said with a grin. “Frank wasn’t very happy that he never got asked to help. He’s wondering if you all think he’s getting to old for helping out now days.” Prue added with even more giggles.

     “I hope he doesn’t believe that mum. I just wanted him to keep an eye on the club while we were away. I’m sure that Brad could have used him a couple of time had he been there.” Becky said, as she tried to explain to Prue why they never asked Frank to go with them.

     “I know that Becky, but you know what men are like when they think they’ve been left out of something on purpose.” Prue said in a dismissive way. “I’m sure that you will sweet talk him into thinking he did an amazing job while you were away.” Prue added with a knowing look.

    Becky knew that Prue was right, and by the end of the night tonight at the club, she would have Frank convinced that he was the best person to leave behind helping Beth run the club for her.

     “Are you sure that everything is okay Becky? You look distracted by something.” Prue asked, as they sat drinking their tea.

    Becky was still worried about the photos of the girl that Chrissy had been hiding in the magazines she found back at home, but she wasn’t about to tell Prue and the others, that she thought Chrissy had an affair while she was away. If for no other reason than she wasn’t sure she actually had. Becky needed to have a word with Jayden, to see if she could find out any more details about the girl in the photos first. Becky knew that would be a tricky subject without putting Jayden in a tough spot.

     “I’m fine, really I am. I guess I’m just missing Chrissy a little bit.” Becky lied, but she knew that they would all buy that as a reason for her seaming a little distracted.

     “I bet it was nice getting to spend the last couple of days together?” Prue asked, as she gave Becky a hug.

     “It was. I think that’s the reason I feel a little lost at the minute.” Becky said, as she hugged Prue back. “But that’s enough about me. I want to know how you’re settling in here at Mable’s?” Becky asked, as she broke the hug with Prue, and looked at Holly and Greg.

    Holly went on to tell Becky about how she helped Mable sort out breakfast, and how they were going to start and do some baking together once they got settled in fully. Holly even told Becky about Carl wanting some of the apple pies to sell in the restaurant at the hotel. Becky was excited for them when they said that. She thought that everyone deserved to taste a piece of Mable’s apple pie, it was that good.

    Becky stopped for just over an hour and then made her excuse to leave. “I’m really sorry, but I better go and get some rest before I have to make a start on dinner, and then get ready to go to work at the club.” Becky said as she got up to leave.

     “I hope you’re not trying to do too much Becky?” Greg asked, as she gave him a hug.

     “Don’t worry dad. They won’t let me do much more than walk around the club keeping an eye on me.” Becky smiled; at the fact Greg was worried about her health.

     “I should hope they are, or I’d be having words with someone about it.” Holly said looking like a protective mother as she walked Becky to the front door.

     “Do you need anything fetching before I leave?” Becky asked, as she stood at the front door having one final hug before Becky left. Prue and Kim had already left to get back to the surgery, so Prue could make some calls and get some tests set up for Greg, so Becky was the only one able to go and fetch anything they might need.

     “I think we’re fine for everything Becky, but Carl left me with a number for the car service at the hotel, and Chrissy gave me a card with Brad and Frank’s numbers on. So I can call one of them if I need anything later.” Holly hugged Becky as she spoke. “I want you to go home and get some sleep; it looks like you could do with it.” Holly added with a smile, as she ran her finger along a little bag that was under one of Becky’s eyes.

    Becky leaned into the touch and smiled as she looked at Holly. “Bye mum. I’ll pop around again tomorrow. That is unless you call and let me know that Prue has some tests planned for dad, then I’ll come with you. That is unless you’ll be getting Brad or Frank to come with you and help get dad in and out of the places.” Becky added.

     “You’re welcome to come and see us here Becky, but I’ll sort out something else when we have to go for the tests. I don’t want you over doing anything.” Holly put her hand on Becky’s belly as she said it. “You have more than just you to take care of now Becky, so you just take it easy and let everyone do stuff for you.”

     “Yes mum.” Becky said with a roll of the eyes, just before she started to giggle.

     “Yes I am, and don’t you forget it young lady.” Holly said with a grin as she had one hand on her hip, and the other one had a finger pointing at Becky as she wagged it around in a bossy manner, but even Holly ended up giggling.

    Holly walked down the drive and then helped Becky to get in her car before she stood and waved Becky off before returning to the house to help Mable clean up the pots and then make a start on sorting out some lunch for them all.

    Becky got home and made herself a sandwich, and then sat at the kitchen table looking at the photos. By the time Becky finished her sandwich and headed up to bed, she was convinced that Chrissy had found some gothic girl to have a fling with as some sort of payback against her. Needless to say Becky didn’t get much sleep that afternoon.

    Chrissy, Amy and Mandy had been at it non stop since they got to the shop, but they got the orders for the changing service done just in time. Linda walking into the shop just as Mandy finished the final check to make sure they had everything that was ordered.

     “Hi Linda, we only just made it in time.” Mandy said with a sigh, as she fell onto the seat behind the counter looking warn out.

     “It’s always tough getting back to work after a couple of days off, I know just how you feel Mandy.” Linda said as she put a basket of food on the counter with their lunch in it. “I’ll get loaded up and let you take a break and have some lunch then.” Linda added, as she made a start on taking all the boxes out to her van. She was soon joined by Chrissy and Amy, as they both helped to get her loaded up and on her way back to the hotel.

    Amy and Chrissy returned to the shop after waving to Linda as she drove away. Amy locked the front door to the shop and then turned the sign to say they were closed for lunch. Mandy had taken the basket through to the back room, so they could set about dishing up some salad and cooked meats for each other.

     “I’m ready for this.” Mandy said, as she took a bite out of a fresh bread roll that Chrissy had just buttered for her.

     “I know what you mean sis; I thought it was never going to end.” Chrissy said just before putting a fork full of salad and meat in her mouth.

    Amy said something, but she already had a mouth full of food, so Mandy and Chrissy just sat looking at her, as they both waited for her to swallow it, so she could then tell them again.

     “Sorry. I said that I can’t see there being much left by the time we’ve done.” Amy giggled, as she put her hand over her mouth so she didn’t spit food all over Mandy and Chrissy.

     “No, not with the way you’re shovelling it in.” Mandy said with a grin.

     “I can’t help it. I’m a growing girl.” Amy said as she stuck her chest out and turned from side to side.

     “You can be such a tart baby sister.” Chrissy giggled, as she poked a fork at one of Amy’s breasts. “Now get your lunch, so we can get stuck in to all those internet orders.” Chrissy added, as she pointed over at the large pile of orders they still needed to get sorted and out in the post.

     “Hey! Watch were you’re pointing that fork big sister. I can’t afford to burst one.” Amy said with fake shock, as she covered up her breasts to protect them from Chrissy and her fork.

     “I wouldn’t worry baby sister, those aren’t filled with water, and I doubt I could burst one with a fork.” Chrissy said with a grin as she thought back to what Amy once told them about her using water filled balloons as breasts.

     “Better safe than sorry big sister.” Amy said with a grin, as she carried on eating her lunch.

     “I can’t believe you used water filled balloons as breasts. Did you ever have one burst on you while you were wearing your sister’s clothes?” Mandy asked.

     “Yes I did. I was so scared that I wouldn’t be able to get her clothes dry before she got home again, but I think I got away with it. Or put it this way, she never said otherwise.” Amy said with a grin. “Maybe I should ask her if she ever noticed some of her things being a little damp once.” Amy had a thoughtful look on her face as she said it.

     “We’ll have to try and remember and ask her when we get home.” Chrissy said with a grin. Amy just nodded her head up and down, due to her having another mouth full of food again.

    Once lunch was out the way, Mandy went and checked up on what stock they would need to order, while Chrissy and Amy started working their way through the internet orders. They made a good team, and they soon had them all done, and then they helped Mandy sort out the stock they needed, and were ready to leave the shop an hour earlier than they normally would be. They got the car loaded up, and then got the shop locked up so they could go and spend a little more time with Holly and Greg.

    Greg was sleeping when they got to Mable’s, so they all sat in the dining room and had a cup of tea with Mable and Holly until Cathleen got home with Jenna, then Chrissy and Amy spent some time playing with her until Greg woke up, then Chrissy sat cuddled up to her dad, as they talked about some of the things Chrissy did as a child, while Amy, Mandy, Jenna and Mable sat and listened to them tell their stories.

    It was soon time to see about getting home and seeing what Becky had cooked for dinner, and Mable was about ready to dish up dinner at her place anyway. She asked if they wanted to stop, but understood why they had to leave when they said that Becky would have cooked back at home.

    Cathleen walked to the door with Holly and waved to Chrissy, Mandy and Amy as they got in Mandy’s car and pulled away. Then Holly went back into the house and helped Cathleen get cleaned up ready for dinner, while Jenna made the most of the break before they ate.

    Becky was just putting a joint of meat back in the oven when she heard the front door close, then she saw Ann and Jayden enter the kitchen and smile at her. “Hi Becky, something smells good.” Ann said, as she walked over and gave Becky a hug. “Do you think I have time to go and take a shower before we eat?” Ann asked.

     “You should have time Ann; I’m waiting for the others to get home. They said they were going to call in and see how Greg and Holly are settling in at Mable’s.” Becky said, as she took the oven gloves off again and hung them back up.

     “Okay then, I’ll be as quick as I can.” Ann said as she kissed Becky on the cheek and gave her a quick hug just before running out the room again.

     “Do you need a hand with anything Becky? I’m not very good in the kitchen, but tell me what you want done and I’ll sort it for you.” Jayden said as she got up to go and help Becky with dinner.

     “Everything is pretty much done now Jayden, but I would like to have a quick chat with you about something.” Becky said, as she led Jayden back over to the kitchen table so they could sit down and have a chat.

     “Okay Becky, what do you want to talk about?” Jayden asked as she helped Becky take a seat just before she sat down again herself.

     “I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind talking about what Chrissy got up to while she was stopping with you.” Becky asked looking nervous.

     “No, I don’t mind, but there’s not much to talk about really.” Jayden said with a shrug. “So what do you want to know?”

     “Did Chrissy get close to anyone while she was there?” Becky asked, but wasn’t sure she was ready for the answer. Becky’s heart jumped up into her throat when she heard Jayden’s answer.

     “Yes she did.” Jayden said as she looked across the table at Becky. “She worked her way into every body’s heart at the club.” Jayden added with a smile.

     “Do you know if she closer than just friends with any of them?” Becky asked.

     “What, you mean like you and Chrissy close?” Jayden asked with a shocked look when she realised where Becky’s questioning was going.

     “Yes. Did she get close to any of the girls at the club while she worked there?” Becky asked feeling a little braver, but still not knowing if she could cope with the answer she was going to get.

     “Not as far as I know, but I wasn’t at the club every night of the week like she was. I never saw her getting that close with any of the girls, or guys for that matter.” Jayden said, as she looked to be thinking back to all the times she worked in the club with Chrissy. “I know a couple of the girls took an interest in Chrissy, but she always shot them down before they even got off the mark.” Jayden added.

     “So she could have had a fling then, and just kept it hidden from you?” Becky asked with worry in her voice.

     “I can’t see how Becky. She never brought anyone home, or spoke on the phone to anyone while she was with me, and she was always at home when I got back from working at the hotel.” Jayden said in such a way as she thought Becky had gone mad. “She always had a meal waiting for me, and none of them were the type of meal that could be cooked at the last minute, so she’d taken some time to get them ready.”

    Becky was deep in thought for a couple of minutes, and Jayden just sat looking at her, as she waited for the next question. Becky knew how cunning Chrissy could be, but it was looking a little odd that Chrissy and a girl from St.Trinian’s would be able to keep a secret like that from Jayden. “What am I missing?” Becky said to herself under her breath.

     “Becky, I’ve got no idea where this has all come from, but if you’re asking me if Chrissy hooked up with some other girl while she was away. Then I would have to say no.” Jayden said, as she reached across the table and took hold of Becky’s hands and looked her in the eyes.

     “But you’ve already said that you can’t be sure Jayden.” Becky said close to tears.

     “Chrissy was a mess when I found her, and yes most girls that would have felt like Chrissy did back then would have gone and had some revenge sex, or something like that.” Jayden said as she waved her hands in the air. “But Chrissy isn’t just some girl Becky! She was heartbroken, and the last thing she wanted was to get close to anyone. It took me a couple of weeks to get her to even open up to me on anything, and even then she still wouldn’t get close just in case she got hurt again.” Jayden said with some anger in her voice.

     “Why are you worried about what Chrissy might have done while she was away all of a sudden anyway?” Jayden asked with a puzzled look. “Have you found some evidence that she’s been seeing someone behind your back?”

    Becky was tempted to go and get the photos and ask Jayden who the girl was in them, but the last thing she wanted was for Jayden to cover for Chrissy until she could warn her, or worse tell her that Chrissy had got close to the girl in the photos and she’d just forgot all about it. So she decided to lie.

     “No real reason. I was just being silly, and wondered if she might have had some sort of a romance while she was away.” Becky said with a shrug of the shoulders.

    Jayden got up and walked around the table so she could give Becky a hug. “You’re the only romance in Chrissy’s life for the time being Becky.” Jayden said, as she kissed Becky on the forehead. “That is until these little ones show up.” Jayden added with a grin as she put her hand on Becky’s belly.

    Becky didn’t have time to ask Jayden any more details about Chrissy’s little holiday because they heard the front door, and then Amber walked into the Kitchen.

     “Hi Becky, Jayden. Amy not home yet?” Amber asked, as she looked around the kitchen, just in case she’d missed her.

     “No, not yet. They were going to call in and spend some time with Chrissy’s mum and dad on their way home.” Becky said, as she got up from the table to go and make sure dinner was still okay.

    The front door was soon heard to close again, and the next thing Becky heard was Amy scream Amber’s name as they started hugging and kissing each other. Becky looked round just in time to see Chrissy walk over to her, and pull her into a hug and then kissed her on the lips. The kiss and hug was very one sided, which didn’t go unnoticed on Chrissy.

     “What’s wrong baby?” Chrissy asked looking worried as she stopped kissing Becky.

     “Nothing is wrong; I’m just hungry and want to get dinner dished up.” Becky said, as she pushed herself away from Chrissy and started sorting out dinner.

    Chrissy was left feeling a little hurt by the way Becky was treating her, but she just put it down to hormones and let it go. “Do you want some help getting it dished up baby?”

     “Sure, if it’s not too much trouble.” Becky said without even turning to look at Chrissy.

    Chrissy, Amy and Amber all set to work helping Becky get dinner dished up then they all sat down to eat when Ann came back down from taking a shower. Becky’s mood towards Chrissy didn’t go unnoticed by the rest of them, and Jayden was beginning to think that there was more to Becky’s questions than just being curious about what Chrissy got up to while she was away.

    Once dinner was finished, and they had all had a desert of fruit and ice cream that Amy and Chrissy made. They all had a cup of tea before Chrissy looked at the time and realised that she needed to go and help Becky take a shower and get ready for work.

     “We better see about getting up stairs if we’re going to get a shower before you have to get ready for work baby.” Chrissy said, as she got up from the table and went to help Becky get up.

     “I’ve already taken my shower, but don’t let me stop you going for one.” Becky said in a matter of fact way, as she got up from the table and then took her cup over to the sink before leaving the room to go and get ready for work.

    Chrissy was left looking at the kitchen door with tears in her eyes as she tried to work out what she might have done to upset Becky. Chrissy looked at the others, then she let out a sigh just before walking off to go and find out what was wrong with Becky, and try to fix it.

     “That was a bit cold.” Amber said as she looked at the door Chrissy had just left by to go and talk to Becky. “Does anyone know what’s wrong with Becky?” Amber asked the others.

     “I’m not sure, but she was asking me a bunch of really weird questions about what Chrissy got up to while she was stopping with me, and working at St.Trinian’s.” Jayden said with a puzzled look on her face as she looked around the table.

     “Did she give you any reason for why she’d be asking these questions Jayden?” Mandy asked looking worried about what had just happened.

     “No, not really, but I get the feeling that she knows something, or thinks she does.” Jayden said.

     “Did anything happen that you can remember, or you think could have made Becky act like she is doing now?” Mandy asked, as she looked at Jayden.

     “Not that I know of, and all Chrissy did was work at the club, and then clean the flat and cook the meals. If she got up to anything else, she did a very good job of hiding it from me.” Jayden said with a shrug.

     “Did she ever meet up with anyone while you were out?” Mandy asked Jayden.

     “I only managed to get her to come out the once, and she never even went on the dance floor. Like I said, she never did or went any place apart from the supermarket to do food shopping, and the club.” Jayden said in a pleading voice. “That’s the same thing I told Becky when she asked me. I’ve got no idea why she’s treating Chrissy like she is.” Jayden added with a sad look.

     “Okay Jayden, thanks for telling us what you know anyway.” Mandy said with a weak smile. “I’ll try and get Becky away from Chrissy, so I can find out what her problem is.” Mandy added with a sigh.

    Becky was just walking into their wardrobe when Chrissy entered the bedroom, so she walked over to the door to find out what Becky’s problem was with her.

     “Becky. What have I done to upset you?” Chrissy asked in a pleading voice.

     “I don’t want to talk about it. I need to get ready for work.” Becky said, as she never even bothered to turn and look at Chrissy as she spoke.

     “If this is about me going out early and then being late back, we talked about it, and you said it was okay for me to go and spend some time with my mum and dad.” Chrissy said, as she thought that was the only thing she’d done since talking to Becky in the morning before she left the house.

     “It’s got nothing to do with your mum and dad. I’m fine with you spending time with them.” Becky snapped as she got the dress she’d be wearing for work, and she left the closet to put the dress on the bed, so she could sort out underwear and shoes. “For all I care at the minute, you can go and live with them!” Becky snapped.

     “Then please tell me what the problem is, and I will say sorry, so we can move on.” Chrissy said, as she turned to look at Becky as she walked around the room getting what she wanted, Shocked at the sudden outburst.

     “Okay then. Why don’t you tell me about what you got up to while you were on your little holiday?” Becky snapped, as she stopped walking around the room and looked right at Chrissy waiting for an answer.

     “Am I ever going to live that down?” Chrissy said looking shocked at the reason for Becky being mad with her. “I said I was sorry, and I even did your punishment of working at the club to show you all just how sorry I really was, but just remember that it was you going behind my back in the first place that started it all.” Chrissy said with anger in her voice. Chrissy knew that if she didn’t get angry, she was going to start crying, and she wasn’t going to let Becky make her feel small when she thought that they were over the whole running away thing.

     “It’s not the running away that I’m talking about Chrissy.” Becky said through gritted teeth. “It’s what you got up to while you were down there.” Becky added, as she started sorting out her things again.

     “I worked at St.Trinian’s, and then cooked and cleaned the flat I was sharing with Jayden that was it!” Chrissy snapped at Becky. “Tell you what Becky, you think whatever you want. I can’t deal with this right now.” Chrissy added as she walked into the bathroom to take a shower and get out of her work clothes.

    Becky was left with a shocked look on her face as Chrissy slammed the bathroom door behind her. She’d never seen Chrissy stand up for herself like that before, and she kind of liked it.

    Chrissy was about to start the shower, but decided to take a soak in the bath instead. She just wanted to try and calm down before she went face to face with Becky again. Chrissy had got no idea what Becky was trying to get at, and it didn’t look like she would get an answer anytime soon either.

    Becky could hear the bath filling up with water, and knew that she wouldn’t be seeing Chrissy again anytime soon, so she set about getting herself ready for work. Chrissy still hadn’t come out by the time Becky was ready, so she grabbed her purse and coat, then she made her way down to find Vicky stood in the hallway talking to Mandy and the others.

    Mandy and the others all looked shocked to see Becky come down the stairs, but not having Chrissy on her arm. Vicky looked just as shocked as well.

     “No Chrissy tonight Becky?” Vicky asked.

     “No, she decided to take a soak in the bath.” Was all Becky said, as she slipped her coat on and then followed Vicky out the house after giving Mandy, Amy, Amber, Ann and Jayden a quick hug and saying goodbye to them.

    Now Mandy knew that there was something very wrong between Becky and Chrissy, if she never came down to see her off when she left for work. Mandy was going to go up and make sure Chrissy was doing okay.

     “Do you think Chrissy is alright?” Amy asked with worry on her face, as she looked up the stairs to where she knew Chrissy was.

     “I’m not sure baby sister, but I’m going to go and find out.” Mandy said, as she headed over towards the stairs. “I’ll see you all in the living room later.” Mandy said as she looked over her shoulder at them all.

    Ann, Amber and Jayden all started walking off towards the living room, but Amber stopped when she realised that Amy hadn’t moved, she was just looking up the stairs towards Chrissy’s room. “Come on lover. Mandy will make sure Chrissy is okay for you.” Amber said, as she wrapped an arm around Amy’s waist and led her into the living room with the others.

    Mandy got to Chrissy’s bedroom door and knocked before entering the room. She found Chrissy sat on the edge of the bed in her bathrobe, just looking down at the rings on her finger, as she kept spinning them around.

     “Hi sis.” Chrissy said, as she looked up and saw Mandy enter the room.

     “Hello Baby sister.” Mandy said with a frown, as she walked over and sat on the bed next to Chrissy and wrapped an arm around her. “I guess you didn’t get things sorted out with Becky then?” Mandy asked.

     “It’s hard to sort out a problem when the person won’t tell you what you did wrong.” Chrissy said with a sigh, as she went back to playing with the rings on her finger. “Maybe I should have just stayed lost.” Chrissy added as she started sobbing.

     “Hey, don’t speak like that Chrissy. We’re all glad we found you again, even Becky is glad to have you back.” Mandy said, as she pulled Chrissy into her, so she could cry on Mandy’s shoulder.

     “She hates me Mandy. Becky hates me, and I don’t know why.” Chrissy sobbed on Mandy’s shoulder.

     “Did she not say why she feels this way towards you Chrissy?” Mandy asked as she stroked Chrissy’s damp hair.

     “No, she just kept going on about what I did while I was away, but I never did anything while I was sis.” Chrissy said with some pleading in her voice. “I worked at the club, and then cleaned the flat and cooked for Jayden.” Chrissy added with more sobbing.

     “I believe you sis, but something’s got Becky all worked up, but I don’t know what.” Mandy said with a sigh.

    Chrissy finally stopped crying and then dried her eyes. Mandy sat with her while she finished sorting herself out. Then Chrissy shocked her with what she said next.

     “Will you be able to give me a lift round to Mable’s in the morning sis?” Chrissy asked. “I’m going to give her a call now, and see if I can move in to be closer to my mum and dad, and also to give Becky some time to calm down, or at least explain what she’s mad at me for.” Chrissy said, as she got her mobile out her purse.

     “Don’t you think sitting down and talking to Becky before you go making decisions like that would be better baby sister?” Mandy said, as she tried to stop Chrissy making the call she was about to make.

     “I’ve tried talking to her Mandy, but it didn’t do any good.” Chrissy was close to tears again as she said it. “She was so angry at me sis, and I don’t know why?” Chrissy snuffled, as she hit the call button after finding Mable’s number in her mobile.

    Mandy just let out a long sigh as she sat watching Chrissy make the call. Someone must have picked up at the other end because Chrissy started speaking.

     “Hello it’s Chrissy; can I speak to Mable please?” Chrissy asked the person on the other end. “Yes I’m fine, thanks David.” Chrissy added as she took a deep breath to get her nerves under control before she spoke to Mable.

     “Hello Chrissy, is everything alright?” Mable’s voice asked at the other end of the phone.

     “Hello Mable. I’m sorry to bother you so late, but I was wondering if I could ask for your help with something?” Chrissy asked with worry in her voice.

     “You know I’ll do anything I can to help you Chrissy. Now what is it you need my help with?” Mable asked.

     “I was wondering if it would be alright for me to move in with you for a bit? Becky seems to be angry at me for something, and I’m worried that if I stay here, I may upset her even more, and I’m worried about how it may affect the babies.” Chrissy asked in a shaky voice close to tears again.

     “Are you sure that you can’t get this sorted out with Becky without the need for you to move out Chrissy?” Mable asked with a sad tone to her voice.

     “I wish we could Mable, but when I tried to speak to her earlier, she just got really angry with me. So I think it for the best that I move out and hope that Mandy and the others can find out what I’ve done, and the best way to fix it.” Chrissy said with a snuffle. “Please let me come and stop with you Mable, I don’t want to move into Carl’s hotel and be on my own again.” Chrissy added with tears running down her cheeks now.

     “You know I wouldn’t stop you moving in here Chrissy, and I won’t hear of you going to stop in some hotel, even if it is one of Carl’s.” Mable said the last part like Chrissy was just being silly.

     “Thanks Mable. I’ll drop some bits off in the morning when I came round with Mandy and Amy.” Chrissy seemed a little better, now she knew that Mable would let her stop there.

     “Do you not want to come round tonight?” Mable asked.

     “No, I need to get some bits packed, and it will be getting late by the time I’m done, so I’ll just move in tomorrow morning. Thanks for helping me out Mable.” Chrissy smiled down the phone even though Mable couldn’t see it.

     “Okay dear, I’ll see you in the morning, and I’ll have your old room ready for you when you get here in the morning.” Mable said with a sigh.

     “Thank you Mable. I’ll see you in the morning. Send my love to my mum and dad for me.”

     “I’ll do that for you Chrissy. Until tomorrow then. Bye dear.”

     “Okay Mable. Bye.” Chrissy ended the call and then put her phone back in her purse before she went and grabbed a couple of bags to start packing some stuff in.

    Mandy sat on the bed watching Chrissy start to get her things packed in the bags for a couple of minutes before she spoke. “If I can’t change your mind baby sister, then I better go and let the others know what you’re doing.” Mandy said with a sigh as she got up off the bed and pulled Chrissy into a hug. “Do you think you’ll be coming down stairs later?” Mandy asked.

     “I think I’ll just get my stuff packed away and then get an early night.” Chrissy said as she looked up at her sister.

     “I better find you in my bed when I come up to bed later.” Mandy said in a firm voice. “If Becky’s going to have a bag on with you, then she can sleep in this bed while I get to cuddle up to my sister.” Mandy added with a smile.

     “Yes sir!” Chrissy said with a grin as she snapped Mandy a salute.

     “Maybe I should order you to stay here with me then baby sister.” Mandy said as she pulled Chrissy back into a hug with her.

     “Please don’t do that Mandy.” Chrissy said with pleading in her eyes. “You heard what I said to Mable. I’m worried about getting Becky to upset, so I think me moving in with Mable until I can find out what I’ve done to upset her is the best thing for everyone.” Chrissy added hoping that her logic would make Mandy understand why she was doing this in the first place.

     “I know and understand why you’re doing this Chrissy, but I don’t have to like it.” Mandy said as she broke the hug and stepped back to look Chrissy in the eyes again.

     “I better see about getting my things packed then, or I’ll never get to bed tonight.” Chrissy said as she smiled at Mandy. “I’ll see you later when you come to bed then sis.” Chrissy added with a smile, as she started packing again.

    Mandy left the room to go and inform the others that Chrissy was moving out, and Chrissy carried on packing.

To Be Continued Soon  

Story by SaraUK

Edited and Posted by SamanthaK