Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *1* Warsop Revisited
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *1*
 

“Number 2 full lap next time”

Geez, that bloke's a sadist! They'd been circling the track doing mixed intervals for nearly thirty minutes and this was the third time that he'd been called to take a lap. The others wouldn't give him any quarter and he wouldn't expect any — welcome to British Cycling's junior elite squad!

He stayed high on the second banking before launching himself down the home straight at pretty much full tilt.

With a fifteenth birthday only a couple of weeks away 2004 was looking like it would be a busy one. There'd already been the school trip to Berlin, there was this trip ‘home' for the annual squad progress ‘school' and Dad already had the first half of the season planned out for me and the girls. Then there's the Weinkönigin stuff, sheesh — yup this year looks like its gonna be a full one.

It really was eyeballs out but after five laps the back of the bunch was almost in touching distance. A last effort and he ‘tagged' Stuart's arm making him a lap gained.

“Okay, 2 laps warm down.”

 

“Bleh!”

“Something like that.” Josh agreed as we caught up.

“Three flippin' laps I got called on.”

“Well Mr Champion, you don't expect us lesser mortals to do all the work.” Stuart opined with a grin.

Drew blew a raspberry by way of reply.

“Nice session everyone, get some lunch, Mark wants everyone in room 6 at two please. Drew, can I have a word before you disappear.” Richard, call me Dick, Haslam ended the morning session.

“See you in the canteen Drew.” Josh grinned.

“Yeah.”

Dick waited until the others were headed down to the garage before saying more.

“Good session Drew, how do you feel its going?”

“Not bad I guess, I was a bit rusty with the fixed, it's difficult to get track time at home.”

“Well if that's rusty, I can't wait to see the polished article. I really wanted to check how you were getting on with the rest of the squad, I know it can be difficult when you're not here all the time.”

“I guess some of them are a bit offish but I guess you'd expect that, I mean they hardly see me and whenever they do its like the Nationals or something. I guess I'd be a bit pissed if I happened to me.”

“That's honest at least. I know you're as committed as the rest and last season more than confirmed your right to be on the programme. What I do want is a team, not lots of individuals, I'm sure you know what I mean.”

Drew nodded, just where was this going?

“You remember last year when we started this development squad what the objectives were?”

“To get us in medal winning form for like the Olympics an' that.”

“Well that's the gist I guess but more than that we are determined to bring back Gold medals across the disciplines. We expect to start the collection in Athens later in the year but by 2008 in China we hope to get medals in every event, that includes the road race and time trial. This goes no further okay,”

“Er yeah” Drew agreed.

“I'll be frank with you Drew, the powers that be see you as a wild card, one or two have questioned your place on the squad, your supporters, and that includes me, still hold the high ground! The truth of the matter is that some of us have higher ambitions for British Cycling than a few gongs every four years, nice as that is. When your mother won the Tour Feminin it opened our eyes and sowed a seed, a seed that is due to germinate in maybe five years time.”

“What's this got to do with me?”

“Well young man, we want you to be the first British winner of the biggest prize of all, the Grand Boucle itself.”

“You've got to be kidding, I'm not even fifteen yet!”

“Yep, a few of us are sticking our necks out on this one and it relies on getting the right funding but we want to build a team that can at least give it a go. At the moment there are only a couple of others who we think are up to the job, there are a few talented juniors out there, Millar is doing okay and we have young Mark Cavendish a couple of years away from starting a pro career. I've rattled on long enough, I just wanted you to know that we're not picking on you rather we're trying to push you to greater things.”

“Er thanks I think.”

“Get yourself on, and remember, this stays between us ok?”

“Okay.”

“What'd Dick want James?” Stuart enquired.

“Nothing much, just telling me how crap I am on the track.”

“We've all had that one” Kristen mentioned.

“I guess practice makes perfect.”

“So what's Germany like?” Kris asked as I stuffed another meatball down the hatch.

“Ish orwight I geth.” I got out around the food.

“All sausages an' them levver shorts” Josh suggested.

“The racings a bit different, hardly any testing but they do these audaxy things a lot but like everyone rides, we all ride to the Gymnasium nearly every day.”

“‘Ark at her, going to the Gym on ‘er bike.”

“Don't be such a berk Simon!”

“Well it gets on my tit, it wafts in here, pisses all over us and buggers orf to sossidge land again.”

I guess Simon has issues!

I stared out of the window into the black Peak District evening as the train shook and rattled its way towards Sheffield where Uncle John is due to pick me up. The weekend seems to have flown by and it was a bit weird not having Mum or Dad around. At least I get to see the gang for a couple of days! Sometimes airline schedules are great!

“Miss, miss? We're at Sheffield.”

“Hmm? Wie spät ist es?" I groggily requested.

“Sorry, I don't understand, you know English?”

“Er my bad, what time is it?” I glanced about me; apart from the conductor the carriage was empty.

“Five to eight or thereabouts.”

“Shitza! Uncle John'll be going bonkers!”

It's difficult to travel light when you have a bike with you as well as normal luggage. And Sheffield station has loads of steps. I was huffing a bit by the time I got to the entrance.

“Drewbie!” one of them banshee dervish things launched itself at me, I was hard pressed not to drop my bike, my kit bag however landed on the floor.

“Let him breath Mad.”

“Um glad (huh) to see you too.” I managed as my cousin relaxed her grip some.

“Whoa girlfriend, your getting a bit er, you know.” Mad made a rather crude hand gesture.

“Gee I hadn't noticed thanks for reminding me.”

Uncle John stepped in to forestall the impending storm of words.

“Come on you two, let's get back home, you can talk in the car.”

In truth my ‘appendages' were starting to be more than a bit of a distraction, the last thing I needed was Mad making it an issue. The fact that I, a fifteen (well nearly) year-old boy, sport a generous 34B chest is something I don't exactly advertise. I thought my sports bra's hid them pretty well but who am I kidding, even the train conductor called me miss!

“Jump in Drew, I'll sort your bike.”

“Thanks Unc.”

The drive across to Warsop seemed quicker than ever, Mad was full of questions; I guess my own could wait a while as I would be in town till Wednesday.

“Hi Auntie.”

“Drew! Lets have a look at you.” She held me at arms length and looked me over. “Well you've certainly grown.”

Not her too!

“A full centimetre since October, I'm still the shortest in my class though.” Yeah I know a couple of my mates are shorter but I did say my class.

“I hope you're hungry, I've done a roast.”

“Hmm I wondered what the pong was.”

“Get on with you!” she gave me a friendly push towards the dining room.

I hadn't realised how much I missed Aunt C's cooking. Don't get me wrong, we hardly starve at home but Mad's Mum somehow manages to make things just that little bit yummier. Not only that but we don't often get a roast at home — the last time was when Gran was over at Christmas. I guess you get used to the local cuisine but a proper roast with Brussels, peas and carrots, roast and mashed tatties and proper thick gravy — hmmmm! And getting lamb in Germany is like finding a vineyard in Yorkshire!

“Pudding?”

“Mum, this is Drew!”

“Hey! Er please.”

“Spotted dick or ice cream?”

Not exactly a choice is it?

“Spotty dick please.”

“Mad?”

“Ice cream.”

“John?”

“Think I'll join Drew.”

I found myself yawning and not paying attention to Mad's latest tale of shopping.

“Think I'll hit the sack.”

“Aw, I was gonna show you the con pics.”

“I'm asleep sat here, it's been a long day.”

“But…”

“Mad, let the boy go to bed, you can bore him tomorrow.” Uncle John put in.

“I suppose.”

I got an escort up to the guest room.

“Um Mad?”

“What?”

She had plonked herself on the bed.

“I wanna change.”

“And?”

“You know, get naked? Me Tarzan, you Jane?”

“It never bothered you before.”

Maybe not but for some reason I felt shy in front of this young woman and I didn't feel so comfortable with the idea now.

“Oh alright, see you in the morning.”

“Yeah, nite Mad.”

After a few nights in the Belle Vue Travelodge, the bed in the Peters spare room was bliss. However a little after two I still found myself staring at the ceiling. It was weird being back in Warsop, my home for fourteen years, and not feel at home! Although we've been in Germany less than a year, Dernau really feels like home, this weekend I've had to concentrate on using English — I spent ten minutes telling the guys about the boar incident on Friday before Josh interrupted to ask for the English version! How weird is that?

How many times have I slept in this room? Twenty, thirty times maybe, it never felt strange, well okay it was a bit weird being Gaby overnight a couple of times but now it sort of feels like I'm a visitor.

The moon was bright enough to illuminate the room quite well through the curtains.

Even this room seemed alien, there's different stuff in here, and even the wallpaper has been changed. It's familiar but not entirely. I lay staring into nothing for goodness knows how long before the z's finally got the better of me.

---

 
Maddy Bell 20.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *2* The Name's Bond
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *2*
 

BRRRRNNNGGG! BRRRRNNNGGG! BRRRRNNNGGG! BRRRRNNNGGG!

“Wha?” Drew woke with a start; the alarm didn't get a chance to start a second round as his hand slapped it off.

‘Geez, morning already.' A quick look at the clock confirmed it was seven thirty; in fact he'd be at the bakery if he'd been at home! There it was again, home, home in Germany that is. Despite everything Apollinaris had offered his Mum a new contract for 2004, which she had signed just after New Year. So Dernau was going to be home for at least another year maybe longer.

“Drew love, you getting up?”

“I guess.”

“Well don't be too long, Maddy'll be off to school just after eight.”

“Right”

Huh? Since when did Mad leave home more than ten minutes before first bell?

“So what're you doing today Drew?” Mad enquired between mouthfuls of toast.

“Dunno, hang here till you get home I guess.”

“Boring! Hey why don't you come into school?”

“Yeah like I wanna do that!”

“Well I didn't mean go to classes dumbo, you could walk round with me then meet me later.”

“Sounds like a good idea Drew.” Aunt C put in.

“Why not.” I agreed, its not like I have a full appointment book. And I'd get to see the rest of the gang.

“This weather's shite!” Mad noted pulling her collar up.

I could only agree, it was a typical February morning, cold, grey and a biting wind.

“Since when can you wear trousers to school?”

“Beginning of the year, something to do with equality.”

“So girls get a choice but boys don't, doesn't sound very equal to me.”

“Hey don't take it out on me. I'm sure boys could wear skirts if they wanted to.”

“Yeah” I replied in a sarcastic tone.

“You've changed Drew, you're a right misery now.”

“Am not.”

She rolled her eyes, “my Drewbie would be pratting about but you're all ‘girls get a choice but boys don't', you're like a stranger.

“Soz, I don't mean to be.”

By now we were nearly at the gates.

“Ma-aad!”

“Hi Al, look who I've brought.”

“Drewbie!”

Ally soon crossed the road and grabbed me in a tight hug.

“Hel'll be made up.” She noted.

“She still riding that old bike to school?”

“Yeah,” Mad replied, “here's Miss Marple now.”

Ding ding ding!

“Morning guys!”

Screeeeeeech!

“Bloody hell Helen, get those brakes sorted.” Ally suggested.

“Sorry.”

“Look who…” Mad started.

“Drew!”

She let go of the bike, which landed with a clang and gripped Drew in the second hug of the morning.

“Mad said you were coming but I didn't expect to see you, when do you go home?”

“Trying to get rid of me already?”

“Not likely!”

“My flight's Wednesday tea time.”

“Brill, how about everyone come for tea tomorrow?”

“Good for me.” Ally enthused.

“I'll check with Mum later.” Mad advised.

I couldn't tell if there really could be some other plans or whether there was still some lingering hostility between the pair.

“Where's Bernie?”

“She didn't tell you?” Ally queried.

“Tell me what?”

“You don't know?”

“Know what? Come on guys, spill.”

“She, you tell him Mad.” Helen suggested.

“She's been excluded Drew.”

“How? Why?”

“Tell you later, or I guess you could go see her, she'll be at home most likely.” Mad proposed.

Drew was stumped for words. What on earth could Bernie have done to get chucked out of school? The others didn't seem entirely behind their friend either so it must be something pretty bad.

“We'd best get going.” Ally noted, “don't wanna be late!”

“Yeah, see ya later Drew.” Helen added.

“Ring if you're not coming this afternoon.” Mad instructed before giving him a peck on the cheek.

“Yeah sure.”

He stood in the swirl of teens starting another day at Warsop College. Warsop, Silverberg — its all the same really.

“Drew Bond! Here boy!”

“Huh?” Drew looked for the source of the gruff command. “Mr Pilling.”

“Ah so you haven't forgotten me.”

“No sir, neither time nor distance.”

“Back for a visit?”

“A training camp really but my flight back's not till Wednesday.”

“Ah, still racing those bikes then?”

“Uh huh.”

“You busy?”

“Not really.”

“There's someone who'll kill me if I let you get away without saying hi.”

“Er okay.”

“Come on, she'll be in the staff room.”

Mr Pilling led his former pupil into the school and towards the office area. It hadn't really changed that much — other than most of the girls wearing trousers. It looked scruffy to Drew; his mates in Germany rarely wore trousers even out of school! He got a few strange looks; his own jeans and ski jacket were hardly uniform either.

“Here we go, take a pew and I'll find her.”

They weren't in the actual staff room but in the reception room used for visitors. Drew nervously perched on one of the rather institutional chairs; at least it was warm in here.

“Gaby Bond! Let me see you!”

“Miss Cowlishaw.” He stood with a start.

“I told you before, its Fran. Its good to see you young lady, we really miss you on the squad. Sit down; I've got a free period first so we can have a chat. You want a coffee?”

Miss C, Fran, wanted to know everything that had happened since his departure and he tried to give a truthful if abridged account of events.

“I thought when Mr Wood said he met Gaby in Cologne you had decided to become her.”

“That was…”

“…An accident! How did I guess.”

“Well I got glühwein spilt all down me so I had to borrow stuff from Anna.”

“You don't have to explain to me.”

“Well ok erm Fran.”

“You know about Bernie?”

“Sorta I'm gonna go see her in a bit.”

“Silly girl and at the start of her GCSE's too. Well tell her hi from me.”

“I will.”

“Bugger, is that the time, look it's been great seeing you, don't be such a stranger in future, you've got my email?”

“Er somewhere.”

“Here,” she scribbled the address onto a slip of paper and handed it to me, “you know you can talk to me about things.”

“Thanks Miss er Fran.”

“Take care Drew.”

With that she gave him a peck on the top of his head and with a cheery wave left him in the lounge. He slipped his jacket back on and headed out, the bell for the end of first period sounded as he made his escape from his former school.

He walked the short distance into the town centre; at least some things don't really change. The paper shop supplied a Mars bar and a box of Dairy Milk then he started out for the Rose house. A watery sun cheered the day a little but Drew's mood remained grey, what had Bernie done? On one hand he needed to know, on the other he didn't and the third was miffed she hadn't told him before.

It wasn't far, well nowhere in Warsop is really, and he soon found himself stood on the step of Chez Rose. The bell sounded shrilly and it was a few moments before there was any indication of life beyond the door.

‘I'll get it then.' The door opened slightly. “Hello?”

“Hi Mrs Rose.”

“Drew? Drew Bond?”

“That's me, is Bern in?”

“Oh sorry, yes, yes she is, come on in.”

“Thanks.”

“Bernie, visitor for you!”

“Who is it mum?” Bernie came out into the hall. “DREW!”

For the third time this morning Drew found himself enveloped in female flesh.

“I'll leave you two to it, you want some tea Drew?”

“Um thanks.”

Bernie led him into the front room where the telly was playing to itself.

“No one said you were coming back to Warsop?”

There was that tone of distance that Mad and the others had shown earlier.

“Well it wasn't really planned, I couldn't get a return flight until Wednesday, I was at a training thing at Manchester.

“Oh” she sounded genuinely sad.

“Oh yeah, these are for you.” I passed the chocs over.

“Here we go Drew, white no sugar.”

Mrs Rose put the mug of tea on a side table.

“Look, Drew got me some chocs!” Bern enthused.

Her mother gave a weak smile, “I'll just be in the kitchen.”

“So like what's been happening?” Drew started.

“Look I'm sorry Drew, I wanted to tell you but… look I've let everyone down.” She started to get a bit teary.

“Oh while I remember Fran sends her best.”

“Fran? Oh Miss C. thanks.”

“So erm how come you're excluded?”

“I thought you knew, I was sure Mad would've told you even after I said I would.”

“Come on spill.”

“I'm pregnant.” She sniffed a bit more and Drew shuffled along the sofa and put an arm around his friend.

“How? No I know how, there‘s more isn't there, you don't get expelled for being daft.”

“I, I tried to burn the school down, oh Drew everything's going wrong, I might go to prison, I don't know what I'll do!”

That was it, the floodgates opened and for fully ten minutes Bernie sobbed into Drew's by now soggy shoulder. There were questions Drew wanted answering but he didn't know how. Why would she do such a thing? Who did she do it with? Was she keeping the baby? He could see why the others would be a bit offish but now was the time Bernie really needed them. He'd have it out with Mad later, just you see!

---

 
Maddy Bell 20.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *3* In Harm's Way
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *3*
 

This certainly wasn't the Bernie I'd last seen in October and even exchanged emails with at Chrimbo. So this had all gone off in the last few weeks.

“So like what happened?”

“Well I know I never said anything but I met this lad last summer, he lives, lived in Edwinstowe and he had a car and stuff. Its not like we were boyfriend / girlfriend or anything but him and his mates were a good laugh and I'd go out with them maybe once a week. They do some weed and stuff, I wasn't keen myself but I started to do a bit too.”

“After what you used to say about drugs?”

“I know, look I'm not making excuses Drew.”

“Sorry, go on.”

“Okay. Well after we went to see you in Germany, maybe a week later we did some real heavy pot and I ended up doing it with about five or six of Sean's mates in the back of his car.”

“Gross!”

“I guess it was technically rape, I didn't want to but Sean kept egging them on. After that I'd get smashed more and more often, I'd end up having sex with pretty much anyone when I was stoned. Mum confronted me just after Christmas so I took off and ended at Sean's place. His parents weren't bothered and I just moved in to his room.”

“So why did you…?”

“Want to burn the school down? Sean hit some really mean shit and like after one spliff we were soo out of it. All I can remember is chucking a bottle then taking off in Sean's car. The CCTV was clear enough to identify us — the police arrested us two days later. I got bail and a 24hour curfew, I can't leave the house without mum or dad.”

“You don't do things by half do you?”

“Sorry Drew.” She started to sniff again.

“What's that on your arm?”

“What?” she made to hide her arm from me.

“You've been cutting too.” I accused. Hey I know it's a bit insensitive but I was in shock.

“Oh Drew! I dunno what to do!” this time the tears came in buckets.

I didn't either; one of my best friends has just told me she was a druggie, free with her charms and wannabe arsonist. Oh and somewhere along the line gotten pregnant too. By comparison my problems were nothing.

I tried to work out what my feelings towards her were, one things for sure I would never have dreamt that I would know anyone in Bern's position. She was always the mature one of the gang, the responsible one; it just didn't compute that the broken individual crying over me could be the same person. I couldn't hate her, and I found I couldn't judge her either — ok so I don't exactly condone or even understand what she's done but to me she's still Bernie.

What could I do? I couldn't say that it'll be alright; it clearly won't be, not for Bern or anyone who knows her.

“You know I'm here for you.”

“Th-th-thanks Drew, y-you don't know how mu-much that means to me.”

“Hey no probs.” I squeezed her shoulder.

“You want to stay for lunch Drew?” Mrs R enquired.

“Sure why not, I'd better let Aunt Carol know where I am though.”

“You can use the phone in the kitchen.”

“Thanks.”

I extricated myself from the still sobbing Bernadette and went through to the kitchen.

“Hi its Drew…yeah I know, I'm gonna have lunch at Bernie's…yeah I'll tell her…ok see you later, byeee!”

“Okay?”

“Yeah, Aunt Carol said to give her a call later.”

“I will. Look thanks Drew.”

“What for?”

“Well for coming over — and for staying. The last few weeks have been — difficult to say the least. Bernie isn't stupid, she knows everything has consequences but I must admit I was surprised how her ‘friends' have treated her. None of them have been to visit, just a couple of short phone calls, it's really broken the girl. You know she's self harming too?”

“Yeah I saw her arm. We had a girl at my school last year.”

“I don't know what's gonna happen to my girl — or the baby.”

“She's keeping it?”

“She says so but I really fear for the poor mite. What happens if she ends up in prison? And this self harming business….” Mrs R was nearly as bad as Bernie; it must've been hard for both her parents.

I was bewildered, what do you say?

“I'll er just go back through.”

“…So you had to wear it all week?”

“Yeah, talk about a nightmare!”

Bernie giggled, “I hope you've got pictures?”

“Unfortunately.” I sighed. “Did I send you the pics from Christmas?”

“You might have, I wasn't exactly with it thereabouts.”

“Well I'll send you a link when I get to Aunt C's.”

“Thanks Drew.”

She clearly meant more by that than what she said.

“Speak to ya soon!”

“Bye Drew.”

“Byeee!” I waved then set off to meet Mad at school chucking out time. Somehow I'd ended up staying not just for lunch but for most of the afternoon too.

The walk back through Warsop to the school was very contemplative. I really was struggling to see how my sensible friend had spiralled so out of control. In just a few weeks she'd pretty much lost everything — friends, self esteem, her reputation and even her school prospects. Nothing will be the same for her again, I vowed to do what I could to help, not that I knew what that would be.

I took station on the wall opposite the back gate and waited for the kicking out bell. There was five minutes yet; I scanned the buildings trying to recall the various rooms within. And there was the shuffling, brown-coated figure of Willis, the caretaker. My mind went back to that stupid escapade with Mad to rescue my phone, what if we'd been caught, would we have ended up like Bernie?

“Penny for ‘em?”

In my day dreaming I'd missed the bell and the first surge of glad to escape inmates, Mad had managed a stealth approach!

“Nothing much really.”

“Come on then dozy, I wanna get out of this uniform.”

“Yeah whatever.”

We set off along the lane, Mad threading her arm through mine, which was rather nice.

“Mad?”

“What?”

“About Bernie.”

“What about her?”

“I went to see her, I've been there nearly all day.”

“Whoopee for you.”

“Why are you guys being so mean to her? We've all been friends for like ever. You know she's cutting herself too.”

“Going for the full set then.”

“Mad!”

“As if getting up the duff wasn't enough, the slag!”

I stopped and looked at Mad aghast.

“I can't believe you just said that! I never thought you'd be like that Madeline Peters. What has she ever done to you?”

“You don't know what its like.” She spat.

“What what's like? Its Bernie who's in trouble not you.”

“People talk you know.”

“And Bernie needs friends, I guess you guys are just as shallow as the gossipers.”

“That's not fair!”

“I'll tell you what's not fair. Its not fair that you dumped your friend, its not fair that Bernie is having to cope alone, its not fair that you didn't even bother to tell me!”

“We thought Bern would tell you herself.”

“Reality check! She was raped for heavens sake and you guys just turn your backs on her. So okay she was doing drugs but just maybe if you guys had been there she wouldn't've run off, wouldn't've started cutting, wouldn't be expelled. So what if some ignoramus's pointed fingers she was, is still your mate.”

Mad was quiet the rest of the way back to Schloss Peters.

“Hi kids” Aunt C greeted us as we made our entrance.

“Hi Mom.”

“Heya.”

“I'm going to change.” Mad advised.

“You two fallen out?” Aunt Carol asked as her daughter disappeared from view.

“Sort of.”

“Bernie?”

“Yeah.” I replied sadly.

“You know they don't mean to be mean.”

“Well that's not how it seems, especially not to Bern.”

“I know Drew. I've tried talking to Mad about it but its like she's pretending its not happening.”

“But it is!”

“Well I think Bernie's really lucky to have a friend like you, I'm sure the girls will come round.”

“I hope so, I hate to think she'll be on her own after I go home. Oh yeah, Helen's invited us over for tea tomorrow, is that alright?”

“Yeah sure.”

“Can I borrow your computer for a few minutes, I need to mail a link to Bernie.”

“Go ahead, you know where it is.”

“Thanks Tante.”

The atmosphere over tea was strained to say the least. My cousin quickly excused herself afterwards leaving me to spend the evening with her olds. I'd forgotten what British telly was like, at home in Germany telly is pretty dire, weird documentaries and what Mum calls ‘eighties soaps'. Not that I watch much — except Tatort round at Connie's every Sunday!

I went up to ‘my' room still quite upset with Mad and the girls and of course concerned for Bernie. The day had turned into quite a roller coaster, it was fun chatting with Fran and seeing Ally and Hel but finding out what was happening with Bernie was a real downer. I couldn't even try to imagine what it was like for her, I dropped off and dreamt some horrible stuff during a fitful night.

---

 
Maddy Bell 21.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *4* Home Shopping
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *4*
 

“And I'm sending you to prison for twenty years!”

Aaargh!

He woke with a start, confused and disorientated, a glance at the clock revealed it was still twenty minutes the wrong side of seven. The only bit of the dream that he now remembered was something about being guilty — of what he couldn't remember. There was some movement elsewhere in the house, no doubt Uncle John getting ready for work.

Sleep wasn't likely to return now and he gave in to the inevitable a few minutes after he heard Uncle J drive off. A nights sleep didn't seem to have mellowed how he felt about the girls treatment of Bernie, how could they be so, so mean?

“Ah Drew, I was just gonna call you.”

“Morning.”

“You fancy coming to Nottingham with me today?” Aunt Carol offered.

“I was thinking of going to see Bernie again.”

“We can call in on the way back, I want to see Cheryl anyway.”

“Er okay I guess.”

Maddy was clearly trying to avoid me, I got a terse ‘Morning' during her brief visit to the kitchen to raid the larder, Aunt C and I exchanged looks as the front door slammed behind my departing cousin. We both had a shrewd idea what the problem was but by mutual consent we didn't say anything.

There was no point in leaving for Nottingham until the rush hour traffic was well on its way so helped Aunt Carol with a few chores until it was time to leave. There's really only one road from Warsop to Nottingham, the A60 and we joined the southbound traffic a little before nine. We caught a little late commuter traffic going into Mansfield but by the time we passed Newstead Abbey the road was pretty clear. It's only just a bit over 35km in total but it was still nearly quarter to ten by the time we got parked at the Vic Centre.

“Anywhere you want to go?” Aunt C enquired as we made our way down to the shops from the car park.

“Not particularly, a bookshop maybe.”

“I've got a few places to go, you want to tag along or meet me later, we can get some lunch before we head back.”

“Okay I guess.”

“Well lets say what? Half twelve outside the tourist office?”

“Fine, see you later, tschuss!”

“Er choos.”

It was sort of exciting getting some ‘shop' time in the county town, I've become used to not just the German shops but you've got to go all the way to Köln to find as many shops as Nottingham and even then they are pretty much the same as Bonn or even Koblenz. They are however quite different to Nottingham.

I wasn't fantastically flush after an expensive Christmas season, I don't make that much at Thesing's but I wasn't skint either. It was one of those really cold, slightly damp mornings that seem to typify the time of year so I turned up my collar, pulled my hat down and stuffed my hands in my pockets as I perused the shop windows.

It was easy to get sucked into the warm stores and I soon had a couple of bags of assorted goodies! The time seemed to fly past and Aunt C beat me to our rendezvous point.

“Looks like someone's been busy.”

“Just a few prezzies and stuff.”

“Well come on then, lets get some lunch, I need something to warm me up.”

It was only a five-minute walk up to the castle and we were soon ensconced in the bust tearoom opposite the lace museum. It was a bit twee, all lace doilies and stuff but the menu was surprisingly cosmopolitan. Despite the temptations of assorted Panini, jacket spuds and stuff on toast we both settled on the thick farmhouse soup with a pot of tea and toasted teacakes to follow.

“So what did you buy then?” Aunt C enquired as we waited for our soup.

“Erm,” I dug into my bags, “the new Pratchett,” I placed it on the table then stacked the others on top, “a couple of manga books, its difficult to get them in English back home.”

“You know you can ask us to get you stuff?”

“Thanks but it's nice to buy it yourself.”

“Well the offer's there. What else have you got?”

“Let's see, toffee for the girls, some Thornton's for Mum, I couldn't resist this,” I flourished a cute miniskirt, “and there was a nice dress I saw in Primark, I might get it on the way back.”

“Here we are ladies, two soups.” I was interrupted by the waitress's arrival with our food.

“Hmm, smells good.” Aunt Carol noted.

Indeed it did look and smell good, and the accompanying bread was freshly baked too. Well you know me, the soup didn't last long and our teacakes arrived in short order. Back home you don't get anything quite like them, maybe I should get Frau Thesing to try them out! And getting proper tea without mashing it at home — well it doesn't happen.

“Well if we're going to pop in to the Rose's we should get a move on.”

“Right.”

Bernie. I'd got her a present, a nice blue cashmere sweater that was on offer for just twenty quid in Next but presents wouldn't solve her problems.

We made our way back across town and after a quick visit to the cake shop in the Vic Centre were back at the car for two. The traffic was fairly light and we cleared Nottingham without a major delay.

“Do you dress often Drew?”

“Dress?”

“As Gaby, you bought quite a bit of stuff for her today didn't you.”

I was stunned to silence, had I really bought Gaby stuff?

“You don't have to tell me, I didn't say anything before as you looked pretty happy about it.”

“I hadn't realised, I was sort of on automatic. Back home when we go shopping — well they treat me like one of the girls, I guess I can give this stuff away.”

“Come on Drew, it's me your talking to. You end up as Gaby a lot don't you?”

“I guess.” I allowed.

“And you enjoy it?”

“I wouldn't go that far. It's just easier to go with it sometimes, I have to be the Wine Queen and like most people have put one and one together and made three.”

“Wine Queen?”

“Mum must've told you?”

“No?”

“Well its sort of like a local festival thing and all the people in the village vote for the wine queen, they um voted for me for some reason, I coulda got out of it but that woulda been more embarrassing than just doing it.”

“How so?”

“Well um they pretty much all think I'm a girl for some reason and I um have been seen in a dress once or twice so just putting on a fancy frock a few times didn't seem too much like a problem.”

“You certainly have an interesting life Drew!”

“Tell me about it!”

“So why did you buy the skirt and dress?”

“Habit I guess.”

“So I don't need to buy you a dress for your birthday then?”

“No way!”

“Just checking, here we are.”

We pulled up outside number 24, I found Bernie's present and joined Aunt C at the door.

“Ah Carol, Drew, come on in it's a bit parkie out there today.”

“Hi Cheryl, we bought some cake.” Aunt Carol advised.

“I'll put the kettle on, go on through — Bernie? Come and give me a hand, Drew's here.”

Ten minutes later our tea level was being topped up supplemented with some gateaux to help soak it up! The conversation was a bit stilted, you could tell the olds wanted to talk but it was difficult with me and Bern in the room.

“Can we go to my room mum? There's some stuff I want to show Drew on my computer.”

“Okay, but you know the rules.”

“Yes mum.” Bern sighed, “Come on before she changes her mind.”

We might have been friends for half our lives but I reckon if I've been in Bernie's bedroom more than three times it would be surprising. It just didn't happen.

“Rules?” I whispered as she led the way upstairs and round the landing to her room.

“No loud music and the door has to stay open.”

“That sorta rule.” I nodded.

“Sorry about the mess.”

I must admit I wasn't expecting the bombsite that greeted us, girls are generally pretty tidy but even my room was neater than Bern's. It wasn't like it was dirty, on a closer look it was mostly piles of stuff, washing, books, well you get the idea but some had collapsed giving the appearance of being just chucked on the floor.

“You can sit on the bed if you like.”

“Thanks, oh I erm bought you this in Nottingham this morning, I hope it fits.”

I was sure it would, being around girls so much gives you a pretty good idea on sizes.

“Oh Drew, its gorgeous! You shouldn't have bought me anything.”

“Think of it as an early birthday present.”

“In that case thanks.” She leant over and gave me a hug.

“So how are you today?”

“Depressed.” She admitted.

“I talked to Mad yesterday.”

“Oh?”

“I had a bit of a go really and she's not spoken to me since.”

“Oh Drew, you didn't have to do that.”

“Yes I did, so okay you've got in some trouble but friends, real friends don't act like Ally and Mad have, even Helen who I thought was more independent has been influenced by them.”

“Its not their fault, I've overstepped the mark quite a bit.”

“Does that make you any less in need?” our voices were going up in volume.

“You two okay up there?” Mrs R enquired from below.

“Yes Mum.” Bern replied through the open door. “Look Drew, I appreciate your concern but you shouldn't fall out with the others over me, it's not fair on you.”

“Its them not being fair, I've got other friends but you guys were always so tight, I bet no one else has been to see you?”

“Well, only Miss Cowlishaw.” She admitted.

“So if I don't do anything they'll leave you on your own with all this.”

“I've got mum an' dad!”

“Its not the same and you know it.”

Our conversation was interrupted by the doorbell.

“I'll get it!” Mrs R called out.

We could hear some muffled conversation before the door was closed, I thought I recognised the voices but I couldn't be sure.

Mrs Rose appeared at the bedroom door.

“More visitors if you're up to it?”

“Who is it?” Bern enquired.

“Ally and Maddy, they're in with Carol. I can send them away?”

“No we'll come down in a minute.”

“Okay luv.”

She left us alone and headed back downstairs.

“Thanks Drew.” I was hugged again, this time with a few tears.

“Hey what are friends for?”

---

 
Maddy Bell 24.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *5* Flying Jo Whylie
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *5*
 

“Um hi Bern.” Ally offered.

“Sorry we've not been before.” Mad added.

“And?” Aunt C prompted.

“Muum! We shouldn't've listened to the gossip an' that, Drew made me feel like an inch tall yesterday.”

“What she's trying to say Bern,” Ally interrupted, “is that we're here for you, if you want us that is.”

“Hel as well, she had to go home straight from school otherwise she woulda come too.” Mad advised the assembled masses.

“Tea Carol?” Mrs R offered.

“Oh er yes please, I'll come help you.”

“Of course I want you guys.” Bern sniffled, “I've been so stupid.”

“No the stupid ones were us.” Ally stated, “we turned our backs on you when you needed us most, I wouldn't forgive us.”

“I never said I forgave you.” Bern got out between sniffles.

“Well you can just blame miss clever knickers there for getting landed back with us.”

I got another damp hug, “thanks Drewbie.”

“Well I had to leave someone to look after you when I go home.”

“Yeah right!” Mad grinned.

“Um you fancy coming to Hel's tonight, we're having a bit of a do for Drew.” Ally offered.

“Er guys.” I tried to deflect things.

“Yeah please come Bern.” Mad went on oblivious.

Bern, by now sat next to me on the sofa erupted into tears.

“Guys!”

“What'd we do?” Mad asked.

“She can't go out without her rents, its part of not being in prison.”

“Oh Bern, I'm sorry, I didn't know.” Ally was now herself nearly in tears.

“Maybe we should cancel?” I suggested.

“No Drew, its not you that mucked up, just tell me what goes on after ok?”

“If you're sure?”

By reply she snuggled into my shoulder, “so what's happening at school?”

Before we knew it, it was just like old times and an hour had passed.

“Come on you lot, let's leave Cheryl in peace for today.”

“You know you can come any time girls.” Mrs R added.

“You want a lift home Ally?” Aunt Carol offered.

“Yes please, otherwise I'll never get to Helen's for six.”

We made our farewells and trooped out to Aunt C's car.

“Just stick those bags on the floor girls.”

I commandeered the front passenger seat.

“Someone's been on the shop!” Ally mentioned.

“Drew.” Aunt Carol supplied.

“Hmm, nice dress, you gonna wear it tonight?” Mad suggested.

“As if!” I nearly exploded.

“Keep your hair on, I was only saying, Hel's really going to town on tonight so I hope you've got something decent to wear.”

“Yeah, tatty jeans are definitely out!” Ally agreed.

I looked down at my leg wear, “they're fashionably distressed.”

“And I'm the Pope.” Mad suggested.

We dropped Ally off and a few minutes later we were back at Chez Peters.

Once in ‘my' room I checked out my kit bag, already knowing what the result would be. Shorts, skinsuit, socks, cycling shoes, trackies, a couple of t-shirts, one clean bra and two pairs of knickers. On top of that was the stuff I was wearing and some dirty underwear, not exactly a great choice of stuff. Sugar! Mad was right; I could hardly go to a party in any of this stuff, especially as I'm like guest of honour.

“Erm Mad.” I gently called across the hall.

“Wassup Drew, why aren't you getting ready?”

“Well I um don't really have anything decent to wear, you got some jeans I can borrow?”

“You have got to be kidding! Drew Bond you really are the limit! Everyone else is dressing up but you wanna wear jeans.”

“I wasn't exactly planning on partying on this trip. Jeans?” I put in in my defence.

“My best ones are in the wash and you could hardly wear my Capri's, looks like that dress is getting an airing Gaby !” she emphasised the name.

“For crying out loud Mad, how do you work that one out?”

“Lets see, party for Drew, no Drew clothes, Gaby clothes available, ergo, Gaby Bond goes to party.”

“But everyone's expecting Drew.”

“Easily sorted.” Mad picked up her phone meaningfully.

“But Ma-ad!”

“And anyway I've not seen Gaby for a while.”

I wasn't gonna win this one, she knows too much for me to make a convincing counter argument. I inwardly sighed, at least my dress is something I've picked out! Mind you I have got a trump card.

“I might have the dress but I haven't got anything else to go with it.” Ha! Get out of that Madeline Peters!

“No problemo Mademoiselle, Madame Peters has just the things pour you.”

I'm in trouble now.

“Go get showered while I get ready then we'll sort you out.”

“Joy” I mumbled to myself.

“What was that?”

“Nothing.” Talk about radar ears.

I tottered along the pavement next to Mad cursing anything and everything! My cousin certainly pulled a number on me; whilst hosiery, shoes and underwear were essential for Gaby her choice was a little, erm, over the top. I mean I haven't ended up looking slutty or anything but the push up bra and three-inch heels made me look a right little Lolita! Lets be straight about this, I don't go out of my way to dress up as Gaby and I try to keep things as gender neutral as I can but I reckon I look quite hot tonight (if a little uncomfortable).

“Come on Gab's, we're late.”

In other words ‘you've made us late'.

“Its these shoes, I don't know how you walk in them, I'm surprised you're mum lets you.”

“What the eye doesn't see.”

As if it wasn't already weird coming to ‘my' party as Gaby but it was also at my old house, the house I lived in nearly all my life.

“Hi guys, come on in, like your hair Gab.” Helen greeted us and once inside took our coats.

I didn't mention my crowning glory did I, the real reason we were late. Mad insisted on putting my hair up in a rather ornate pile of curls and hanging bits — at least it wasn't braids for a change!

“Sorry we're late, someone couldn't decide what to wear.” Mad supplied.

“Ooo nice dress Gabs,” Ally started, “thought you weren't wearing it tonight.”

“I wasn't.”

“Hi Maddy and you must be Gaby right?” Mrs Joyce smiled.

“Um hello Mrs Joyce.”

“You do look like your cousin.”

I blushed a bit.

“Well now you're here we can eat.”

The house looked totally different, well of course it would, different furniture, different positions for things. Sort of like déjà vu with a twist. The five of us had a nice dinner, it was a bit odd being all dressed up like this but the others were gussied up too and I started to get a bit suspicious when Mrs Joyce left soon after we'd eaten.

“So what now, we watching a film or something?”

“Didn't they tell you Gabs? We're having a Valentines party, half the year are coming.” Hel informed me.

“What?” I exclaimed.

The doorbell ringing halted any further discussion as the first partygoers arrived.

“When Helen said an old friend was coming we thought it might be Drew but you're much better.” Paul enthused after cornering Gaby in the kitchen.

“Er thanks, I think Drew was supposed to be coming.”

“I guess it woulda been a long way to come just for a party.” He mused.

You don't know the half of it!

Despite my reservations I actually found myself having a good time. I even managed to have a bit of a boogie after I ditched Mad's towering heels. It was good to see my old school friends again but a bit odd too. After all I could hardly admit to being Drew dressed up like a prom princess but I'd known a lot of these people since infant school. There was a bit of snogging going on, I'm sure Clive was trying to get the courage up to make a move but I managed to avoid him.

Things started to wind down when Mrs J returned just after ten and by eleven there were just a handful of us waiting for our rides home.

“Thanks Hel.”

“I was a bit surprised when Mad rang and said Gaby was coming.”

“Not as surprised as me, I'll tell you!”

“Sorry I didn't go to Bernie's earlier, I'll go see her tomorrow, I promise.”

“You haven't known her that long but Ally and Mad have known her for like years. She's not really bad, she just got in with a bad crowd.”

“Ally said she was pregnant, is she keeping it?”

“I think so, we didn't really talk about that much.”

Helen looked thoughtful.

“I guess we'll have to share the babysitting!”

I rolled my eyes in disbelief.

“Come on Gabs, mums here.” Mad called from the front hall.

“Have to go I guess,” I struggled to get my shoes back on my stockinged feet, “thanks again for tonight, I'll mail you when I get home.”

We hugged, I was nearly as tall as Hel with the heels, and we were soon making the short trip back to the Peters.

“You all packed Drew?” Aunt C enquired.

“Just about.”

“I wish I was coming.” Mad pouted.

“We've discussed this once already.” Her mum pointed out.

“I know!”

I was thankful really that Mad wasn't coming to the airport, when the guys came to Germany last year it was a right cry fest when they left to come back to England.

We gave Mad a ride to school where we met Hel and Ally too. We had a bit of a hug session before they had to go inside. My flight wasn't until four so we drove round to the Rose's to see Bernie for a bit. All too soon it was time to leave and after another tearful farewell we headed out to the A1 to make our way to Leeds Bradford.

It was a good job Aunt C was with me; I would've struggled with all my stuff on my own. The check in was pretty quick and after depositing my bike bag at the oversize check in we went to get something to eat.

“Well kiddo, its time.”

“Thanks for having me.”

“You're welcome, we'll see you again at Easter remember, now chop chop or you'll be late!”

We had a last hug before I joined the queue for security and passports.

I found a seat in departures and watched the coming and going while I waited for my flight to be called. Eventually we were called to the gate and I joined my fellow travellers. It was a bit odd to hear German being spoken around me after five days of almost exclusively English. Where is home? It seemed like Warsop should be but as I waited amongst the mixed collection of Europeans I realised that home is where you make it and that's where my family is, in other words, Dernau not Warsop.

We had to walk out to the plane, it was damn chilly and I felt my nipples crinkle as I shivered. No fancy loading walkway here just a set of steps leading up to our aerial bus. I noted wryly that I would be flying on Jo Whylie, the plane named after a DJ I used to listen to back in Warsop.

---

 
Maddy Bell 25.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *6* Back Home
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *6*
 

“Come on Gab, we'll be late!”

“It wasn't me who had too much coffee.”

“Bleh!”

I was knackered to tell you the truth; it was nearly ten o'clock by the time I got home last night. Dad met me at Düsseldorf International just after seven but then we got caught up in a load of traffic at Köln that cost us nearly an hour.

“Connie!” I moaned as I tried to power the old Schauff up to cruising speed.

“So Bernie, she is the dark haired girl yes?”

“No that's Helen, the tall one with sort of reddy brown hair.”

“Its not so much of a surprise to me, it is always in the Zeitung how there are so many Jung mutter in England.”

It was said without rancour, more a statement of fact. It didn't make things any different, she was my friend whether she was a statistic or not.

“Yeah well, I don't think she exactly planned it.”

Connie just shrugged and kept pedalling.

 

“Ah so you grace us with your presence Fräulein Bond!”

How many times have I told Herr Viessner I'm not a girl? But it's useless to argue with him.

“Yes sir.” I sighed as Steffi sniggered beside me.

“So as you are our resident expert can you please give me a sentence that includes the past participle of eating.”

I had to think about it for a moment, “after we had eaten, my friends went home.”

“Thank you Drew, now class can you see the sentence structure she used?”

The rest of the lesson went on in a similar vein; at least I didn't get picked on again.

 

“So your friend, she will have the child?” Pia enquired at lunchtime.

“I dunno, I guess so.”

“In the circumstances I think I would not.” Anna offered.

“But if it is her religion, I think she hasn't the choice.” Steffi noted.

“What's religion got to do with getting preggers?” I enquired.

“Sometimes you are so naive Gaby!” Connie sighed.

“What?”

“Religion has a lot to do with things, for example Catholics will not use die Verhütungsmittel and abortion also is against their beliefs.” Nena told us.

“I think it is less so now.” Bridg put in.

“Is Bernadette a Catholic Drew?” Connie asked.

“Dunno, never really asked about stuff like that.

“Her name is typical for a Catholic.” Steffi pointed out.

Maybe I should ask her when I mail her tonight or would that be like intrusive? I must admit that religion wasn't something that really came up in our lives. I guess a few kids went to church but to be honest I was still a bit hazy about the differences between C of E, Methodists and Catholics, don't they all sing the same hymns and stuff? I think some of my relations are a bit more into the whole church thing but our family would I guess be called non-practising C of E. By that I mean we rarely go to a church service but both Jules and me have been baptised. It hadn't really occurred to me that which church you went to could affect stuff like having kids.

 

“Hi Drew.”

“Hi Mum, where are you? It's a really crackly line.”

“At the top of the Kitzbüheler Horn, we've come up to the restaurant tonight, its damn cold up here.”

“I never could understand the training camp thing.”

“Its for team building kiddo.”

“Sounds more like a party with a bit of skiing thrown in.”

“We were out on the bikes today. Anyway, how was Manchester?”

“Okay I guess, we did a lot of track work.”

“Well that was the point of the weekend.”

“I guess, I just prefer the road.”

“So it was just okay?”

“Well…”

“Well what? Spit it out.”

“You know Dick?”

“Haslam? The track coach?”

“Yeah, well anyway we had a bit of a chat.”

“I'm on with Drew Tina, medium please , sorry luv they're just ordering dinner, go on what did Dick have to say?”

“Well it seemed all a bit politicky, he said that some people didn't like that I am on the squad, I know Simon Armitage doesn't. Well anyway he said that there's like this secret plan to put BC on a standing with like Australia and France and that.”

“Caro mentioned something like that when we had a chat the other week.” Mum noted.

“Well anyway, I think Dick has lost it coz he reckons they want me to win the Tour — as if!”

“Why not kiddo? Your old Ma managed it and I'm gonna give it another shot this year.”

“Yeah but…”

“But what? Drew you really are a chip off the old block, you certainly have all the makings of a first class rider, I know I don't really say much but I'm really proud of what you've achieved. Now if Dick says they're grooming you for bigger things I know its not just motherly pride.”

“Yeah but the Tour, you have to be like mega good.”

“And you aren't? Don't put yourself down so. Go with the flow, if you're not happy we can talk things through, it sounds like it's not just me that'll be earning a living racing bikes! Coming Maria! Look Drew, I have to go, we can talk more when I get back next week ok, tschuss!”

“Bye Mum.”

How comes I get to go to Manchester and Mum gets to go to Kitzbühel skiing?

“Your Mum okay?” Dad enquired.

“I guess, they're eating dinner at the top of some mountain.”

“Sounds like one of Maria's ideas.”

“What're we eating?”

“Chops okay with you?”

“I guess.”

“I'll do it in a minute, oh you haven't forgotten it's the track league at Radstadion Köln tomorrow night, i'll pick you up from school or we'll never get there on time.“

 

I got an email from Bernie, apparently she has to go to court next week to do with the arson stuff. Apparently her social worker wants to prosecute her boyfriend, something about sex with a miner which is like pretty weird, especially as Meden pit closed yonks ago! I sent a reply but i chickened out of mentioning religion, i mean what do you say, 'i hear that if you're a Catholic you have to have the baby', maybe she'll just tell me?

 

”žCRACK“ the starters pistol sounded loudly in the evening air.

I pushed down hard on the pedals and started my first event of the night, one that i already have some form with, the pursuit. the Albert-Richter-Bahn is a wooden track like Manchester although its not fully enclosed and at 250m meant my 3000m pursuit would be over 12 laps. I was soon into my stride and settled into my tuck position, i actually felt like i was riding fast, no doubt as a result of some position tweaking at the weekend.

There was no fancy screen here instead Dad walked backwards and forwards from my station to denote if I was up or down. The pursuit is hard, ride flat out for five minutes against your opponent on the opposite side of the track. British cyclists have a good record in the event down the years including several Olympic gold's and world championship wins. I suppose it could be something to do with our tradition of time trialling but although the distance is short, the effort is out of proportion to riding say a ten.

After five laps Dad indicated I was up on my rival and from there onward I turned up the power gaining time each lap. With two laps to go I started to tire but was chivvied into a final effort by the sight of a bike at the other end of the back straight. I'd never catch him but the little crowd cheered me home to a victory on the line of nearly ten seconds.

Unlike road riding, at the track, whilst some people specialise most have a go at everything, my next event was the junior Devil. It's like only ten laps but after lap three the last rider, the devil, gets pulled out each lap then there's a big sprint from the survivors for the line. It can be a bit cut and thrust but if you get your tactics right it can be fun.

I stayed near the back out of trouble and just made sure I got in front of at least one rider each lap. Simple to say but no one wants to be last in line so I had a series of mini sprints to stay in contention. The final sprint didn't go my way, a big lad in ESV Köln colours got over the line first but I was only a half wheel down.

My last event of the evening was the points race. Rather than separate events for each category everyone was on the track together, Elites, Seniors all the way down to Juniors. It was all really exciting mixing it with the older riders, I even managed to gain a lap on the back of a ‘train', Dick's picking on me at the weekend really got some results! I managed to get back towards the front for the final sprint and was dead chuffed to score fourth place. Well cool!

“Well kiddo,” Dad started as we negotiated our way out of Köln, “I reckon you could win the series if you score well on the last night.”

“If.” I emphasised.

“You picked up a lot of points tonight, the points race was very impressive.”

“I have just come back from a weekend of training at Manchester.” I pointed out.

“And you can build on that.”

“Yeah.” I wasn't so convinced.

 

“So run this by me again Connie.”

“There's a Goth party at Martin's tonight so we're meeting at Anna's to get ready.”

“Following you so far.” I took another sip of coffee.

“You need to bring black tights and a dark skirt.”

“I'm hearing you, why?”

“Well duh! I just said, Anna's gonna lend us some stuff but we need to take some ourselves.”

“And just why would I be wearing a Rock and Strumpfhose?”

“Drew-www please?”

“No.”

“But ‘everyone' knows you're the Königin you have to wear a skirt.”

The logic was definitely flawed but much as I hate to admit it I could sorta see her point. All the girls would be wearing dresses or skirts an all that, I was known to be a girl, ergo I would be expected to be dressed as a girl. It was kinda logical, stupid but logical.

I sighed deeply, “Do I have to go?”

“Don't you dare wimp out on us Mr Bond!”

“What time?” I slumped back in my seat, defeated by logic.

It had been billed as an anti Valentines party and I had agreed to join the others when we got back from Berlin. To be honest I'd forgotten about it until Con mentioned it was today, ten minutes ago. And there was me thinking we would be going to the cinema this afternoon, nope its dress up time at Anna's up the hill in Esch!

---

 
Maddy Bell 28.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *7* Gothic Sisters
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *7*
 

February the fourteenth, just over a week until my fifteenth birthday. So what am I doing? Oh yes, I've got a party to attend.

“Anna!” I moaned as she nearly poked my eye out with an eyeliner pencil.

“Well sit still then.”

“I'm trying but this jumper itches.”

“Stop moaning, you coulda worn the Korsett, I did offer to swap.” Anna pointed out as I tried my best to ignore the effect her jumper was having on my body.

I was well kippered today, any lingering doubts anyone might have had over my gender would be blown away for sure. After I left Connie earlier I went home to find the ordered clothing, I don't have a lot of girl stuff and a black skirt was not in my repertoire. Not that I would ever get away with that as an excuse so with cap in hand I interrupted Jules' German revision.

“Erm Jules?”

“What do you want to borrow, I haven't got any money.”

“I don't want money, I was er wondering if you had like a black skirt I could borrow? We're going to a Goth party tonight and I um don't have anything.”

She sniggered, “I guess you must be a girl, I'm sure my brother wouldn't be asking to borrow my clothes.”

“Jules!”

“Sorry I couldn't resist, what's it worth?”

“Ten Euros?”

“Ten and you help me with this German before Monday.”

Well it was cheaper than buying something I guess.

“Deal.”

So that's how I ended up wearing this ridiculously short net and satin creation complete with Jules' fence net stay ups which just failed to reach the ‘hem' of the skirt. I know she has more sensible stuff but she claimed this was all she could find — like I say kippered!

Goth Girl had offered a corset too, but my brief acquaintance at New Year and last year in Virginia did not encourage me to repeat the experience! So somehow I'd been talked into what can best be described as an amazing architectural achievement, one of Anna's Wonderbra's! That was effectively the problem with the jumper, it was Angora wool and the bra offered little in the way of protection from its soft but itchy fibres! Oh and did I mention it's neckline revealed way too much of my currently enhanced décolletage!

“Is this really necessary Anna?” I whined as she added more makeup to my already heavily laden face.

“Duh! If its worth doing…”

“…It's worth doing well, I know.” I sighed as she started on my lips.

“Ta da! What do you think?” Anna enquired of the assembled horde in her living room.

“Gabs? That you?” Steffi asked.

“I wish.” I mumbled.

I think my tormentor got just a bit carried away, apart from my revealing outfit, as if that wasn't bad enough, I now sported black nail polish, some multicoloured wool dreadlocks and a really scary looking face. Oh and her skull earrings a nose ring and a lip ring — no don't think I've flipped, they only clip on and my Goth guide was adamant they were required to finish things off.

The others of course had not been idle while Anna worked on me, I have to say no one had stinted on their efforts. Maybe between us there wasn't quite enough black hair but otherwise we'd fit into any group of Goths I've ever seen. Of course Anna had supplied a lot of stuff like the BIG boots Pia had on and the black wig that Steffi sported. We were gonna be a hit one way or another.

“Come on guys,“ Steff cajoled, “Dad'll be here with the bus in a minute.”

“Stop panicking, its too cold to wait outside, we'll hear when he arrives.” Brid pointed out.

Oh yeah, it would be too simple for Martin to live nearby, nope he lives about ten kilometres away as the crow flies in Staffel, by road its closer to twenty from Anna's place. A few kids back in Warsop used to travel a bit to get to school but some kids at Silverberg live over twenty kilometres away in Adenau! By comparison I'm a local living only about five kilometres away. Yep once we got to the party, there will be no escape until our ride home arrives about midnight.

BEEP! BEEP!

All seven of us were quickly in Herr Oldberg's Vito; it really was too cold to hang about, especially if you are wearing little more than your underwear!

“You all look nice this evening.” Steff's dad lied.

“Pappa!” Steffi groaned.

“I was only saying.” He backtracked.

To be honest I was starting to get a bit antsy by the time we started the climb up to Staffel. Now I'm sure you know by now that I like to get jiggy from time to time, and doing stuff in sometimes revealing outfits never usually deters me from having a good time. But tonight He will be there. Maximillian von bloody Strechau — talk about a pain in the bum. He must've asked me to go out with him at least twenty times since we moved here; honest I've done nothing to encourage him!

“What's up Gabs?” Pia enquired.

“Max.”

“He's harmless.” Nena suggested.

“That's alright for you to say, he doesn't follow you round like a lost puppy.”

“I think it's cute!” Connie put in.

“You would!” I huffed.

“Hmm Gabriella von Strechau, it has a certain ring to it.” Steffi called from the front seat.

Geez, and this lot are supposed to be my mates!

“We'll protect you from the nasty duke Gab.” Bridget offered.

“Duke? He's a Duke?”

“Ooh, she's interested now,” Nena giggled.

“Am not!”

“Well he's not the Duke yet but he's next in line to the title.” Pia informed me.

That's all I need, a lovesick aristo! Maybe the whole Goth thing'll put him off? What am I saying, I'm a boy for heavens sake, not of the female gender, I like girls!

We got to Martin's place, he lives on a farm and the party was already in action in one of the barns.

“Right girls, half eleven or your parents will skin me.”

“Yes Papa.”

“Yes Herr Oldberg.” We all chorused.

Martin and his mates really had gone to town on decorating and stuff, the whole anti Valentines / Goth theme came through rather well. We joined the crowd of other kids, it was fun trying to work out who some of them were, for some reason everyone recognised me straight away.

Perhaps it was something to do with all the ‘no kissing' signs or maybe he doesn't like Goths but Max behaved himself all night. In fact the party was a blast, I soon forgot how I was dressed, after all I wasn't the only one a little under dressed and not even the only boy in a skirt! So okay the one Rolf (one of the Strechs, Max's hanger-on's) had on was floor length and teamed with a ripped t-shirt — not exactly comparable to my brief ensemble!

It did, like a lot of teen parties, end up with the boys watching the girls, I of course had the advantage there that I was actually with the girls. On the downside, I was included in the girls being watched, which is a bit weird and creepy. Especially with how much flesh I had on display. Compared to the party at Hel's on Tuesday this really was on a different level. That's not to say Helen's offering was bad or anything but Martin had got the services of a proper Goth style band, and of course the old stone barn and real brands for lighting gave it something my old sitting room would never have!

I don't know how it happened, I don't remember anyone asking me, but I got voted ‘Goth Queen' to the hosts Goth King title (I'm sure it was because it was his party!). How do I keep getting in these situations? So of course we had to dance together, at least I've had some practice as Wein Königin. Mind you it was more folk style than waltz, back home everyone could just about manage a ‘jig on the spot' or ‘slow dance', here even my peers can manage a passable formal dance.

By the time Herr Oldberg arrived with his taxi to take us home my feet were aching and I was starting to fade.

“See you tomorrow Gabs.” Connie told me as she shut the door behind me outside Schloss Bond. Yeah, work at the bakery after my training ride.

I let myself in the house, someone was still up and I could hear the telly in the lounge.

“I'm home.”

“Hi kiddo,” Dad greeted me from his chair before looking from the telly. “What on earth are you dressed as?”

“A um Goth?”

“Not you as well, what is it with you kids?”

“No it was for the party, everyone went as Goths.” I tried to explain.

“It's a good job your mother can't see you young lady!”

“Dad?”

“Oh sorry Drew, well the same thing, were all your friends wearing so little tonight?”

“Pretty much.”

Dad sighed, “Go on, and make sure you take that make up off!”

“Yes Dad.”

I headed towards my eyrie only to be stopped on the way by Jules.

“Wow! Hot chica!”

“Give over Jules.”

“I bet the boys were all over you tonight.”

“Not really.”

“What's that on your head?”

I felt my head and found my ‘crown'.

“I got voted Königin.”

“I should be jealous.”

I set off on my regular Sunday morning loop; a couple of hours ride up into the hills and back. The sky was full of bruised clouds and the temperature in the valley was on the cool side of comfortable with a slight headwind.

One thing never changes and that's the chance to think about stuff while I'm riding, it might be what we're having for tea, reliving a race or like this morning, going over the previous day.

I've had the discussion with myself many times over the last couple of years, am I Drew or this other Gaby person? A wobble from my chest reminded me that it wasn't necessarily as clear cut as that, maybe my trip to the clinic in a couple of weeks will help with that?

On one hand I wanted to be rid of Gaby from my life, if I'm to follow my desired route in the world of cycling, maybe even reach the heights Dick was proposing I have to be all man don't I? There again I guess its not so bad being Gaby, I wouldn't have chosen the way things are but events and my body seem to have a way of pushing me ever onward. I don't want to be a girl; honestly I don't but its like good fun sometimes.

Take last night, so okay my outfit was a bit extreme and my main concern wasn't how I looked but rather how to avoid Max. I really enjoyed myself, geez I even joined in when Bridg started waggling her bits, we all ended up in a right state! Does that mean I'm really a girl, one of those trans thingies that Mum was on about?

I made the right turn onto the Effelsburg road and clicked my lights on, as it was a bit foggy up here.

Hmm where was I? Oh yeah Gaby. Well I guess I'm sorta stuck with her for now at least, its not like I usually dress up in girls stuff, well apart from my undies but like that's a practicality. WHOA! What the hell.

I got the bike back under control after its little dance on what I guess was some black ice. Hmm, if I can get to the top I can get onto some better roads or get Dad to fetch me. I selected low gear and sat as still on the bike as possible, there were a couple more wheel spin moments before I got to the top but it must be my imagination but it seemed to be a trifle warmer higher up.

I shoulda known there would be more fun coming, as I reached the Scheuren turn the first flakes of snow started to blow my way — just what I need! At least I was on the homeward leg. Whilst it didn't start to blizzard it was soon starting to settle on the tarmac, the little motorised traffic about did little to clear it.

Riding in the snow can be quite fun as long as you keep your attention focused. All thoughts of keeping to my training schedule went out the window, hey shouldn't it be Mum riding in snow? Maybe she is. The snow blew about a little but by Todenfeld, I decided to cut my ride a bit short, there was about four centimetres on the road and half that on me and my bike! For some reason I started singing Christmas carols to myself and found myself repeating Jingle Bells several times!

As I rode down through Esch I checked the time on the church clock, shitza! I'm late for work. Well going faster wasn't an option so the alternative was to go straight to the Bäckerei.

---

 
Maddy Bell 30.11.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *8* Baked
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *8*
 

“Drew?” Frau Thesing enquired as the snow encrusted figure dripped into the bakery.

“Morning Con, Mrs T, sorry I'm late I got caught out when the snow came.” I managed between trembling and shaking.

“Mom, I'm taking Gabs up to change.”

“Okay dear, I'm not going out today anyway. Get her warmed up too.”

“We'll be as quick as.”

I found myself herded up to the apartment above and into the bathroom.

“Get a shower, I'll find you some stuff to wear, leave your wet stuff outside the door.”

“Th-thanks Con.”

I stripped out of my cycling kit, it wasn't that I was soaked, I wasn't really that wet thanks to my Gore-Tex© jacket and bibs, rather I was cold, from my finger ends to the pit of my stomach, my legs were blue and I couldn't really feel my feet.

The shower was painful at first, I had to turn the temperature right down until I started thawing out then gradually put it back up. The action of soaping up helped getting the circulation going again.

“Drew? I've put you some stuff outside the door for you to wear.” Con called round the door edge.

“Cheers Con.”

“I'll see you downstairs.”

“Ok.” I agreed.

I turned the shower off and wrapped a towel around me then recovered the clothes before getting dried off. Well of course, Con being Con had found me some warm stuff to wear, the fact it was based around a needle cord skirt and a distinctly girly jumper wasn't the point! Mind you I could see why she chose this stuff, she is like inches taller than me and bigger everywhere else too but the skirt had a sort of corset panel at the waist, which allowed it to snug up for a reasonable fit, at least it came to my knees! She'd found a bra that wasn't too big and although the shoes were a size too big by doing up the straps a bit tight kept them on reasonably well.

“Better?” Con enquired passing me a cup of coffee.

“Much.” I agreed.

“You're bike's around back in the shed.”

“Thanks Frau Thesing.”

“Can I leave you two to it? I have some stuff I need to do upstairs.”

“Sure mom, we usually cope.”

My employer left leaving just the two of us in the shop.

“Sorry for this.”

“No worry, it's been quiet anyway, no one wants to come out in the snow.”

I stood warming my hands on my cup watching the snow falling outside.

“I like snow, Mum reckons its because it was snowing when I was born.”

“Its your birthday soon?”

“Next week, Wednesday the 25th.”

“We should have a party.” She enthused.

The arrival of a customer disrupted the conversation and heralded a not busy but continuous stream of visitors to the haven of Thesing's Bäckerei .

White stuff continued to fall all afternoon not hard but enough to build up nearly thirty centimetres by the time we closed up.

“I ought to get home.”

“No Tatort ? And its roasted lamb for dinner.”

It was tempting, really tempting.

“Oh go on then.”

I'm glad I did, the lamb was excellent even if there wasn't any mint sauce or Yorkshire pud! And Tatort! Well what an episode, there was some sort of mad assassin on the loose in Berlin while the Love Parade was on. I'm not sure quite why he was shooting people but the good guys eventually tracked him down and after a chase through the crowds finally got their man.

“You are not going out there in this.” Frau Thesing stated.

Outside the weather had taken a turn for the worst, the gently swirling snowflakes had at some time evolved into a full-blown blizzard! Whilst I quite like snow even I know when fun becomes stupid, I might be many things but that's not one of them.

“Looks like you're staying the night.” Connie needlessly pointed out.

“I'd best ring Dad”

“Go ahead Drew, you know where the phone is.”

I awoke with a start, where was I?

“Hmmm.”

“Aaargh!” there was someone else in the bed, someone very close indeed with their arm over my chest.”

“Hmmm Gaby.”

Closer inspection revealed the body to be Connie. I'm in bed with Connie? Shitza! “Aaargh!”

“Whe? What?” Con managed, “oh its you, mornin' Drew.”

“Morning, er how come we, er you and me, together?” I managed to string together.

“It was cold, I thought we could keep each other warm, I think it worked.”

Frau Thesing pushing the door broke this line of thought open.

“Time to get up girls.”

“Okay mama.”

I was caught in a right situation now, one that I was not really prepared for.

“Come on Gabs, shake a leg.”

Not having a great deal of choice in the matter I reluctantly donned the stuff I borrowed the day before, well Con did supply fresh knickers so it wasn't too gross.

Outside it was, as the carol would have it, ‘deep and crisp and even'. No bike ride to school today, that's if we go of course. Mind you it was still early, barely seven o'clock but of course it was still pretty much dark.

“I'll have to go home for my school stuff.” And to get changed!

“Breakfast first, then you can borrow my winter boots.”

“Thanks.”

It's not really that far from the bakery to my house, two minutes by bike but wearing too big boots and pushing my road bike through almost knee high snow took considerably longer!

“Ah the proverbial um daughter returns.” Dad mentioned as I arrived in the kitchen.

“Morning Dad”

“Morning kiddo, you're going to be late for school.”

“I'll be lucky to get there at all, have you seen it out there?”

“I took a walk out to the station with Jules, the main road's open. Tell you what, get your stuff and I'll drop you off, I've got to go down to the office anyhow.”

“Thanks, I'd best let Connie know.” Damn I was hoping to skive today.

“If she gets herself to the petrol station she come catch a lift too, I'll go start the car.

That meant I'd have about five minutes, bum!

I pulled Con's boots off and thumbed my phone into action as I headed for my room.

“Con? Drew. Yeah I only just got here, you want a lift, Dad's gonna take us…yeah at the Tankstelle in ten minutes. See you then, Tschuss!”

I searched through my schoolbag, evicted several tomes and found some more.

BEEP! BEEP!

Bugger! I grabbed my bag and charged downstairs grabbing a coat as I passed. Shoes, shoes, where are they, ah, they'll do. I rammed my feet into what I thought were my spare school shoes and slamming the door behind me left the house.

Dad just rolled his eyes as I slid in next to him.

“What took you? No don't answer.”

“Sorry, I couldn't find my German lit essay.”

Dad eased the Saab away from the house, already I could feel my seat warming up — every car should have heated seats! Yes we still have the Saab, it's a reminder of home but it's also a very nice car. The lane out to the main road was passable with care but once there our way was clear if busy. Connie was stood stamping her feet by the garage and was at the kerb by the time we stopped.

“Danke Herr Bond.”

“No problem Connie, I was going into town anyway.”

I was still thawing out from my extended walk in the snow, but I was getting some feeling back in my feet at least, the heater was belting out warm air. All too soon Dad was pulling up outside of school, it seems like everyone was caught out by the weather, we were far from the last students heading in.

“See you at lunch Drew.”

“Bum I forgot about lunch.”

“We can get something in the refectory, bye-ee”

“Bye.”

I headed towards my own homeroom and made it just as the second bell sounded. I shuffled across to my desk and with a sigh sank into my seat.

“Thought you weren't gonna make it.” Steff stated.

“It's a long story, Dad dropped me an' Con off.”

“Okay people, Anderson?” Fr. Dürst started the attendance roll.

I was sure I was getting some funny looks during homeroom but goodness knows why.

“Come on you're always Wollversammlung! “ Steff chuckled, “Chemistry sucks.”

“Yeah.”

“So like how come on the worst day of winter you decide to wear a skirt to school?” Steff enquired as we started the walk to the chemistry lab.

“Huh? I didn't…oh shitza!”

“What?”

“Dad was rushing me and I forgot to change.”

Bum, bum, bum!

“Well you look nice, it suits you.”

“I thought I was getting some strange looks.”

“I guess people were surprised, after all you normally wear jeans or cargo's.”

“But everyone will think I'm a girl!”

“Well duh! No more than before.”

“Which means?”

“Which means mein Liebchen, they always did.”

“But?”

“But nothing, most people have seen you gussied up out of school, they are just a little surprised to see you looking so girly in school, like the shoes by the way.”

I looked at my feet, nooo! Not my shoes at all but Goth Girls Skechers . I wanted to scream, I hate snow! Why didn't Dad say anything? Now I'm gonna have to spend the day dressed like this.

As I was apparently the only student in school not wearing trousers today I stood out like a sore thumb and I'm sure quite a lot were giving me the once over, not a nice thought. I did catch Max staring at my legs during German, he really is a letch. Which reminded me of Saturday night, oh bum! Am I doomed to be Gab not Drew, not me?

---

 
Maddy Bell 02.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *9* Court in the Act
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *9*
 

To say Bernie was scared would not be correct on any level, she was petrified!

Mrs. Rose squeezed her daughter's hand and gave her a reassuring smile; at least she hoped it was reassuring. This was a whole new experience for the whole Rose family whose previous involvement with officialdom ran to a parking ticket in 1993!

The waiting was the worst bit, they'd been sat waiting for over an hour, it seems that youth court was busy today.

"Bernadette Rose!"

"It'll be alright love." they hugged before Bernie followed the usher into the courtroom, her mum going into the public gallery where their legal team was waiting.

 

"Well that went well." Mr. Smyth 'with a y' stated as they convened in a side room ten minutes later.

"So what happens now?"

"Well Mrs. Rose, social services will send you an appointment for an assessment, then at the hearing next month, if all goes well, the judge will make a temporary supervision order. Usually in these cases that means you have to report to your probation officer each week or fortnight. Its a first offence so we are probably looking at six to twelve months."

"Thanks Mr. Smyth" Bern mentioned.

"What about this other case Mr. Smyth?"

"Ah yes, the under age sex business. Well certainly nothing for you to worry about, its the Crown who are bringing the case, they might want a witness statement but its unlikely you'll be called to court."

"I find all this bewildering." Mrs. Rose admitted, "I wish my Ian was home."

"Mr. Rose?"

"Yes, he's in Iran working."

"Well like I said there's nothing to worry about, if anything comes up you have my number. I have to dash I'm afraid; I'm due in court again. I'll see you at the hearing next month."

It was bitterly cold outside the magistrates court, Bernie let out a sigh.

"You okay love? Fancy a cuppa?"

"Okay."

Mother and daughter walked along to the 'Toad in the hole' café and found a table inside.

"Mr. Smyth seemed very upbeat."

"I guess"

Mrs. R was half minded to launch into the 'hope you've learnt your lesson' monologue but it had been overplayed in the last few weeks and it didn't solve anything.

"We'll have to see about getting you back into school."

"Warsop?"

"Well Carol, Mad's mum is sure we can get you back in, she's on the School board so has had some experience.

"I dunno whether I could, everyone'll know."

"Where else do yo propose? You'd have to go to Worksop or Ollerton."

"I guess"

"At least they lifted your curfew so you can get out during the day."

Being housebound really was a bummer and the relaxation really would make life more bearable.

"Have you thought any more about the baby?"

"Of course I have."

"And?"

"I dunno."

"Look love, we'll support you whichever way you decide. Too many girls have their lives ruined by feeling pressured into having the child, I don't want you to be one of them."

"But abortion Mum?"

"Ok so in theory I'm against it too, but I'm practical, no one would blame you and even Father Ignacious agrees with me. It's not the only option you know? You could have it and offer it for adoption?"

"I don't know whether I could."

Being basically under house arrest there wasn't much else to do other than think. And whilst Drew's visit had returned her friends to her life she didn't really feel comfortable talking about this sort of stuff with them yet. Oddly she probably would‘ve talked to Drew; maybe she could call him up for a chat? It was a big decision, potentially life changing, well that goes without saying.

Of the three options the easiest of course would be an abortion, she'd always been against it in the past but that was before it affected her and also because the church was very much against it, but they were against contraception too which she always found rather hypocritical.

Option two would be to have the child and have it adopted, but of course that comes with its own baggage. Could she really give up a child that she'd carried for 9 months and given birth to? And what of the child? Would she get a knock on the door in twenty years time to find the ‘abandoned' child on the doorstep? There was so much of that in the papers and magazines these days, mothers looking for adopted children and visa versa, yep, even adoption could be messy.

Which left keeping the child. Was she ready for motherhood — on any level? It would totally change her life of course, not just the pregnancy but her whole life. Of course these days there is lots of support, childcare, education, money but she'd always be the single mum, the one who had to get home for the sitter. She really wished she could rewind the last few months and have things like they were before she met Sean.

“Mum? I'm going to meet the guys.”

“Okay, you know the rules.”

“Yes mum.”

Mrs. Rose had put her own conditions on Bern's freedom; hourly check ins and no leaving Warsop ‘unsupervised'. Well it was better than being stuck in doors and she could at least go to see her friends that meant she was less isolated.

She pulled her coat around her and hurried towards the College. It was strange going there not just out of uniform but no longer, at least for now, even a student. It felt like everyone she saw was looking at her in judgement but in truth hardly anyone knew what had gone on, it was doubtful that many people read the court notices in Chad and even if they did they were unlikely to know her.

“Mum reckons you'll be back in school in a couple of weeks.” Mad advised as they headed for Villa Peters.

“Maybe.” Bernie agreed. “I might go to Worksop High instead, start fresh you know?”

“Oh don't Bern, we'd never see you.” Ally mentioned.

“Why'd you want to do that?” Helen enquired.

“I don't know if I can take all the pointing, I mean everyone must know what I've done.”

“You're old news Bern, a few might remember but most people have probably forgotten you exist.” Mad pointed out.

“Except us of course!” Helen put in.

“So what are we doing after tea?” Ally enquired.

“English revision.” Mad sighed.

“Oh yeah, I forgot about the mock tomorrow.”

Those few words isolated Bernie from her friends as effectively as if she was locked away. She had been out of school since before Christmas, nearly two months in all. The home schooling she had was really just a couple of hours of pointless exercises with the wet behind the ears ‘facilitator' the council supplied. It was strange really, most kids would say they hate school, but if its taken away from you you find yourself wanting to be there.

“Tubby or not tubby, fat is the question!” Helen trilled.

“Helen, that is so bad! Right Bern?”

“Eh? Sorry I wasn't listening.”

“You okay Bern?” Ally asked.

“Yeah sure, look on second thoughts I think I'll just go home, I don't feel so good.”

“You want us to come with?” Helen offered.

“No, its okay, just a bit of a headache, I'll be alright.”

“If you say so, I'll call a bit later okay?” Mad offered.

“Yeah sure, bye then.”

The three of them watched as Bern retraced their walk along the lane.

“What do you think that was about?”

“No idea Mad.” Ally responded.

“She went a bit quiet when we started talking about school.” Helen observed.

It wasn't the girl's fault, not really. Things had changed, before she'd always shared so many experiences with her friends, they did everything together, her, Ally, Drew, Mad and Rhod. First Drew moved away, then Rhod, well Em by then, went to Wales then of course she'd gone daft. She didn't dare look back although she was certain they were watching her, no she wouldn't let them see the hot tears slipping down her face.

She'd meant to tell them about the baby tonight, they still didn't know about her pregnancy, it just hadn't come up in the couple of chats they'd had. She was on autopilot, walking home on the streets she knew so well.

“Mum? I'm back.”

“I thought you were going to the Peters for tea?” her mum enquired.

“I decided not to bother, I didn't fancy it really.”

It was clear by what her daughter didn't say that there was more to it than that but she knew by now that Bern would tell her when she was good and ready.

“I've been thinking, you know about the baby, I'm gonna keep it.”

So that's what it was about.

“You know it won't be easy?”

“I'll survive, it's not like its Aids or something.”

Mrs. Rose held her tongue in regard to the glib reply.

“Well I guess if that's decided we'd best let your father know.”

The conversation with her absent father went as well as it could. He was of course somewhat less than impressed with the circumstances and he'd made that quite clear but ever the pragmatist he promised his full support. She neatly sidestepped the school issue, it would have to be faced sooner or later but for now it could be later. She opened up her email folder and started to compose.

‘Hiya Drew, me here!

Well I've finally decided, I'm gonna keep the baby. I bet that surprised you, but I've looked at it from every angle and that's what I want to do.

I've got a favour to ask though. I still haven't told the others I'm pregnant, I know I'm a wimp but do you think you could tell them — pretty please?

Oh yeah my curfew thingy has been lifted so I can go out now which is really cool. Mum says we can go to Meadowhall tomorrow to start looking at baby stuff; I'll get properly registered at the doctors in the morning so I can start antenatal classes and stuff. Hey we'll be able to swap notes on being preggers! (Giggle)

I've decided that if it's a boy I'm going to call it Drew James and if it's a girl Gabrielle Susan, what do you think?

Hugs Bernie'

Before she changed her mind she hit ‘send' and relaxed back into her computer chair.

---

 
Maddy Bell 02.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *10* Miss Bond?
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *10*
 

I was not a happy bunny. Things didn't improve when I remembered that I was supposed to be going straight to the Pinger's from school. Why me? Okay I know what you're gonna say, there are precedents, the whole school brochure thing at Warsop and more recently the Schwangerkostüm episode here in Ahrweiler. It doesn't mean I have to like it. And what's worse is that before it's always been intentional, playing a part but today, well I don't know.

I did my best to ignore how I was dressed but when everyone started talking about Martin's party it was clear that I'd made something more of an impact than I thought. I guess it didn't help that I was made Goth Königin on the night combined with my less than manly outfit!

Well the easiest way to get through the day was to act like there was nothing unusual going on. Of course I'd long suspected that pretty much everyone at school thought I was a girl — with the exception of the Head, Frau Boxberg and possibly one or two other members of staff. Frau Dürst always seems to call me fraulein and has even picked up on Gaby! If I wasn't stuck with the Wein Königin thing I could just get a number one, I'd look like a boy then — wouldn't I?

There was a bit more snow after lunch, not enough to really add any depth but enough to re-cover cleared footpaths and roads. In the end school is just school however you are dressed, some things might be less appropriate — at least it wasn't Saturday's outfit!

“Drew? Why are you in a skirt?” Kat enquired when I joined her at what answers for the Silverberg train stop.

“It's a long story Kat. You remember how the schnee came down yesterday? Well…”

“And no one said anything?”

“Well not to me.”

She shook her head and pressed the button to open the door.

“Well I guess you're stuck with it now, come on, race you to the house.” And she set off up the street.

Somewhere along the line Kat started a snowball fight, which was all very well for her in her ski pants but lets just skip the detail and say that a snowball somehow ended up inside my skirt. And tights however you look at things tend not to give much protection in that situation! We finally made it into the Pinger house where Dad was already nursing a cup of cocoa with Henryck, that's Kat's dad.

“Ach there you are.”

“Drew started a snowball fight.” Kat accused.

“Did not, it was you.” I counter claimed.

“Does it matter?” Dad enquired before things got out of hand.

“Sorry Dad.”

“So what's for dinner papa?” Kat enquired.

“Dave suggested we go to the Shanghai Gärten.”

“I'm not exactly dressed for eating out.” I mentioned.

“I'll lend you something.” Kat offered.

Great.

“So Bernie will have the child?”

“I dunno, I think she might, she was always against terminations.”

“So young to be a mother.” Kat noted.

“Yeah.” I agreed.

We somehow ended up talking about my trip to England and of course I mentioned Bernie's position.

“Here you go, I knew it was here somewhere.”

She emerged from her closet brandishing what she described earlier as a ‘cheongsam' or something like that.

“You sure you don't have any jeans I can borrow?” I had a feeling of déjà vu — again!

“I told you, you'd look like a clown, I'm ten centimetres taller than you for starters and I'm a bit bigger in the hip too.”

“I know, but a dress?”

“You'll look cute!”

Where have I heard that before?

Well I suppose it was kinda fitting given where we ended up eating which, as you might guess by the name was a Chinese restaurant. With Mum and Maria away with Apollinaris in Austria we often seemed to do this sort of thing. Usually though I wasn't wearing a pink Chinese style dress!

Dad had to stifle a chuckle when Kat ushered me into the lounge.

“Ta da! I give you Gaby san!”

You don't get many blonde Chinese but Kat had made my face up so I looked a bit oriental. I already knew what Dad would say if I complained so what was the point? I just spent the whole day at school in a skirt so going to dinner in a dress, well I guess I did sort of land myself in this position.

By the time we headed home a lot of the snow was gone even if it was still damned cold — a fact that I knew only too well as Kat's dress was not exactly warm!

What a day! As I lay in bed I vowed not to have a repeat. What weirded me out though was my reaction to waking up with Connie cuddled up to me, or rather my lack of reaction. Well okay I was more than a bit surprised but I'm a boy and she's a girl right, surely I shoulda felt something more than surprise? On the other hand it did feel kinda nice to have her holding me, confused? I certainly am!

Tuesday was a return to normalcy, the snow was just about gone, I went to school in my own clothes and we were eating at home! When I turned on my computer about nine there was a new mail symbol flashing away in the corner of the screen. I opened the browser and downloaded the mail; ah it's from Bernie.

‘Hiya Drew, me here!

Well I've finally decided, I'm gonna keep the baby. I bet that surprised you, but I've looked at it from every angle and that's what I want to do.

I've got a favour to ask though. I still haven't told the others I'm pregnant, I know I'm a wimp but do you think you could tell them — pretty please?

Oh yeah my curfew thingy has been lifted so I can go out now which is really cool. Mum says we can go to Meadowhall tomorrow to start looking at baby stuff; I'll get properly registered at the doctors in the morning so I can start antenatal classes and stuff. Hey we'll be able to swap notes on being preggers! (Giggle)

I've decided that if it's a boy I'm going to call it Drew James and if it's a girl Gabrielle Susan, what do you think?

Hugs

Bernie'

I read it several times; well it seemed pretty up beat but how come I get to tell the others? But what could I do, I could hardly say no.

‘Hi Bern,

Of course I'll tell the others for you, I guess I'm the only other one who has been pregnant — even if it wasn't for real! I don't envy you that but I'll be here for you. You can't use those names; the kid'll get a complex!

How did court go? You didn't say.

Are you going back to school yet?

Hugs

Drew'

I sat for a while before I started to compose a new mail to Ally, Helen, Mad and Em as well.

‘Hi all,

Re Bernie

I know you guys have been talking again but there's something that Bern has told me but not you. I think she's a bit afraid of what you'll think and say so she asked me to tell you.

Well I'll stop beating about the bush, Bernie's pregnant and she's going to keep it. There I said it! I hope you won't go off on one again, she really needs your support right now so please be nice to her.

Catch ya later

Drew'

I hit send; well I'd done it. I only hope it was okay, well too late now, Gabrielle Susan indeed!

“Drew, you seen my Skechers?”

Oh sugar!

“Er not lately.” I fibbed, I could hardly say I'd left them at Kats could I — not without loading her with ammunition for future teasing. “I'll keep a look out for them, the black ones right?”

“Yeah, I couldn't find them yesterday and I'm sure I put them in the hall cupboard. Well I'd best be off, see ya later.”

“Bye”

I don't see as much of my sister as I used to what with her going to school in Bonn. It takes her about an hour and a half each way on the train, which must be a bit of a drag every day, that's part of the reason she got the Mofa. If you cut across country I can get to Bonn from home in under an hour on my bike but it's not really a good idea this time of year with icy roads and all that.

As soon as she was gone I flicked open my phone.

“Kat? Hi its Drew…. yeah good morning, could you bring my shoes to school…I know, I completely forgot when I picked the other stuff up…. yeah we can swap, er thanks for letting me borrow it…. I won't forget your shoes…. lunch time, okay see you then.”

Well that's that sorted. Ooh that reminds me; I need to take Con's stuff back this morning too.

Ten minutes later I had the borrowed clothes in the bike basket and I was heading towards Bäckerei Thesing. It was another bitterly cold morning but there wasn't any ice or snow even if it was a bit damp in the air.

“Morning Drew!” Anna pulled up as I was unloading my stuff at the bakery.

“Hiya.”

“Ooh that looks interesting.” She peered into my basket.

“Some stuff I borrowed the other day.”

There's one thing about bakeries, they are usually warm and I involuntarily shivered as the warmth hit me. Everyone else was already at ‘our' table so I dumped my bag and went to pour some coffee for Anna and me.

“Morning Gaby.”

“Morning.” I returned to Frau Thesing.

“Cheese or ham today?”

“Cheese please.”

Lunch ordered I returned to my gaggle of friends.

“I've never seen you in this.” Brid mentioned indicating the cheongsam.

“Its not mine, I borrowed it from Kat on Monday.”

“Sexy!” Pia growled.

“She'd look good in a bin liner!” Nena put in.

“Guys!” I moaned, “There's the stuff I borrowed at the weekend Con.”

I presented her with her boots and a bag of freshly laundered clothing.

“You didn't have to polish my boots.”

“Whatever”

“I want one, my shoes are always a mess.” Steff giggled.

“Girls! Your sandwiches are ready.”

“Okay mama.” Con replied.

Frau Thesing charged us each a flat daily rate of €5 for coffee and lunch, extra pastries and crisps we got a discount. Con took our money and fetched the food, overstuffed Brötchen and some sort of cake. We'd probably have much the same if we bought it at school but our €5 wouldn't include morning coffee or a can of pop.

The food signalled it was time to go so we headed out to the bikes.

---

 
Maddy Bell 03.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *11* Friday Night
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *11*
 

I didn't know it yet but last nights exchange of emails had sparked off much more than either myself or Bern could ever imagine! But more of that later.

"So" Bridg started as we settled down for lunch, "what are we doing for Drew's birthday?"

With everything that's been happening I hadn't really given it much thought myself. Back in Warsop it was usually something like a trip to the pics then like a birthday tea. This'll be my first birthday without the 'old' gang in like forever.

"You got any ideas Drew?"

"Not really, we usually go skating or something and probably something to eat."

"I know" Steffi started, "we'll organise a surprise."

"That okay Drew?" Nena enquired.

What do you say? No, I'm washing my hair? Lets face it, there's not that much can go wrong, is there?

"I guess, can we do on the Saturday though?"

"Great!" Anna giggled, "I lurv surprises!"

Oh boy, what am I letting myself in for? At least if it's at the weekend we don't have to worry about school the next day.

I arrived home a tad on the cold side, that's one thing you soon learn living in the valley bottom, it might still be light but you lose the sun quite early and with it any warmth it might give. And in the middle of February that means its darn cold by the time school lets out!

At least tonight I don't have too much homework. It was a rule the rents laid down when I got the broadband in my room, homework first then I could surf'n'stuff. Well excepting if I needed to look stuff up for school.

As soon as I logged on though there was a 'new mail' message, well several actually. My homework wouldn't take long so I hit my mail log in.

Talk about fans, flying and excrement! I won't bore you with all the details but I was in trouble because I hadn't said anything, Bernie was in trouble because she hadn't, why hadn't we told them - and a lot more in the same vein.

I rattled off a quick reply, just one, I'm not writing to each of them, but even so when I looked at the clock I realised that a/ it was nine thirty and b/ I hadn't done my homework! Sugar! Well I guess friendship comes first.

This is one week I just don't want to repeat - and to cap it all I've been coerced into attending another Weinkönigin event on Friday. I'd been trying to forget about it but hidden in my in box was a reminder from the Königin committee. Double shitza!

At least my homework was relatively easy - 1000 words on the causes of the American Civil War. We'd covered that when we were in America last year so the only difficult bit was putting it into German! On the plus side I've nearly got the hang of how it works but don't ask me to explain!

Thursday passed all too quickly, Friday too - all too soon it was time for Gaby to put in another appearance. At least this time it wasn't a dance or visit to the old folks home. Having said that, a formal dinner at the Kursaal in Bad Neunahr was not exactly an easy gig either. The only plus, if you could call it that, is that I get to wear more normal stuff. Yeah normal if your Connie not normal if you're Drew.

"Come on Gabs, we'll be late."

I think Jules enjoyed all this stuff, especially like tonight when she was seconded as my guardian; Dad had been given the task of taxi driver for the returning Apollinaris riders.

I did a last check in the mirror, yep as I feared, no sign of Drew at all.

"Gab!"

"Yeah I'm coming"

Pia's dad was taking us; he's on the organising committee anyhow so Pia and her mom were along for the night too.

"Nice dress Gab."

"Er yeah." I wasn't sure if she was being ironic or not.

My dress was far too girly for my liking, okay any dress is girly but this one was more than most. It's actually quite a nice dark purple with like a sparkle to it; but the flouncy bits all over it offset that. I know, it coulda been worse, it is knee length and it doesn't show too much chest. Of course I have to have my hair up because as Weinkönigin I have to wear my 'crown'. Talk about hassle!

I've gotten quite good at this girl stuff I suppose, not that that is something to put on my CV, 'Good at girl stuff, dab hand at makeup, can braid hair,' yeah that'd look really good - not! The fact of the matter is that I'm not really having to think about it, worse still the other day I even found myself tidying my eyebrows! Roll on September so I can get back to being me full time.

The dinner was a sort of fundraiser thing combined with some presentations for what I couldn't really say; my German isn't up to the machine gun announcements of the MC so I just clapped when everyone else did.

What I had failed to see coming, I guess someone did mention it at some point, was that I had to help with these presentations. Talk about embarrassing, the more so because people applauded me when I walked up to the stage and I hadn't even done anything!

So I stood, smiled and passed the awards out as directed, the worst bit about, and I can barely bring myself to think about it, was that nearly all of the insisted on trying to kiss me! The first one caught me unaware and landed one nearly square on the lips. Gross! After that I was ready to repel boarders, no one got past my cheek after that I can tell you!

Still, the food was pretty good; even I had to leave some. I mean everyone got their own joint of meat and there were enormous platters of taters and veg, I'm getting quite partial to hot red cabbage!

"Gaby"

"Yes Herr Sebenschuh "

" I have something for you, I should have given it to you earlier but..."

Pia's dad patted down his jacket pockets searching for something.

"Ah here we are." he pulled a small box out of a pocket, you know the sort of thing that rings come in, "it is your badge of the Ahrtal Löwen Club, you are an honory member as a Wein konigin ."

"Er thanks Herr Sebenschuh"

"Lets see!" Jules demanded from behind my left ear.

"Okay let me get it open then."

Turns out that the badge was like a silver brooch with 'Ahrtal Löwen Club' running around the edge and 'Weinkönigin 2004' on a banner type thing underneath. In the middle was what I guess is the Löwen's actual badge.

"Kewl" Jools allowed, let me pin it on."

How come my sister was suddenly into all this charity stuff? Lets face it; it hardly goes with her Goth Punk persona does it?

It was pretty late by the time we were dropped at home, my feet were killing me - do not wear strappy sandals to a formal function even if your sister reckons they are perfect. My poor tootsies have been stood on several times and the straps have been cutting in too, was I glad to get them off!

The rents were already in, Mum looked well fit - not like that although I guess she is, no athletic fit. She'd also got quite a tan, she never mentioned going to the beach!

"Hiya kids"

"Hi Mum"

"Ooh Gaby, you stink of cigarettes!"

"It was quite smoky in the Kursaal"

"You'd best both shower before bed and we'll have to get your dresses cleaned."

"Yes Mum." I sighed.

This was embarrassing,

"Jules?" I called around Goth girls door.

"Wassup? Its only seven for chrisakes ."

"I'll come back later."

"You're here now and I'm awake so what is it?"

"Can I like come in?"

"I 'spose"

I let myself into the black hole.

"So what's up?"

"Erm I dunno, I think there's something wrong, my um thingies had some sort of white stuff on them this morning."

Jules started to chuckle from the nest she was curled up in.

"Its not funny, it could be serious!"

"Sorry Drew, but it is sorta funny."

"You know what it is?"

"This white stuff? It was like a bit sticky right?"

"I suppose it was a bit."

"You're lactating"

"Lack whating?"

"Dur! And you did that whole pregnancy thing last year! Lactating, you know, boobs, milk?"

"Aiee!"

"Shush! You'll wake the olds."

"But like I can't be, for one I'm not pregnant and the other, I'm a boy!"

"Keep your hair on. Its nothing to do with being pregnant, mine did the same at your age, its like your body is testing that everything works. I bet you slept on your front."

"Yeah."

"Well when you move about in your sleep it sort of makes your boobs think they're being suckled. If you sleep on your back and maybe wear a sleep bra they'll stop doing it and dry up in a week or so."

Talk about mortified. So now not only do I have boobies, I have milk boobies!

"Its perfectly natural when your body is developing."

"Yeah, if your a girl. Reality check Jules, I'm a boy, I have all the equipment to prove it.'

"Look, why don't you have a chat with Mum."

Well it wasn't news I wanted but at least it wasn't as scary now, yes maybe I should have a chat with Mum, maybe later.

Hi Drew,

Just thought I'd let you know, the girls are coming round later and we're going to Worksop, Mum's taking us. We were in Yim for hours, you should log in, I'm sure you can get Yaboo in Germany.

Speak to you later

Bernie

I read it through again; it looks like my friends are getting to grips with Bernie's situation. I sighed heavily, I really miss those trips, its not the same with Con and Steff an' that, but I guess that's a given. Maybe I could try Yim, not that I get that much time for that sort of stuff what with training and homework and all that. I hadn't intended looking at my email when I switched the comp on this morning but when it flashed up that there was mail from Bernie I had to check it out.

“I was talking to your Aunt Carol this morning.”

“Oh?”

“Yes,” Mum went on, “she was telling me about Bernie, why didn't you tell me?”

“I was going to.” I told her somewhat defensively.

“You're not in trouble kiddo, far from it. Carol was telling me what you did, I'm proud of you.”

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding.

---

 
Maddy Bell 12.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *12* Yubisaki
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *12*
 

“So what do you think?”

“I dunno.”

“Well have a think about it and let me and your Dad know.”

“Er yeah, okay.”

“Well I need to get ready, don't get into mischief.”

Mum left me alone in the kitchen.

We'd been talking about Bernie and the gang for a while but she'd surprised me at the last. Out of nowhere she'd suggested Bernie come to stay with us for a while. I dunno where she got the notion, maybe Auntie C, it sounds great but would it be a good idea?

I needed to get ready myself, a bunch of us are going up to Bonn this afternoon.

NEEEENAAAH, NEEEENAAAH, NEEEENAAAH, NEEEENAAAH!

The police car sped past us.

“Gott! Its so busy here.” Brid exclaimed.

“It's quieter than Köln.” I noted as we made our way over the pedestrian crossing.

“So where are we going?” Nena enquired.

“Schuh Strasse.” Anna suggested.

“As good a starting place as any.” Steffi noted.

“There are some nice boutiques there.” Pia agreed.

Joy.

I followed along in my friends wake, not quite sure why I was here after all I don't want stuff in the boutiques.

“So what do you think Drew, the red or the green?”

How should I know? I looked at the togs Anna was holding up.

“Green?”

“Hmm I think so too.”

Well why ask me then? Girls!

With my mind elsewhere — specifically the Bernie question, I didn't take too much notice of who was trying what. When they had exhausted the possibilities in one store we moved to the next.

“Hold this Drew.”

I absentmindedly held the hanger in front of me.

“I think the other Steff.”

“Yeah, we'll go with that.” Pia agreed.

I still hadn't come to a conclusion over Bernie. I mean I think it's a cool idea, but is it a sensible idea? On the one hand I get to hang with Bern, she'd be away from all the nasty stuff in her life and she'd have a chance to get her act together. But on the other hand she might feel a bit isolated and she'd be away from like her rents and the other girls. And of course there was the issue of whether the authorities would allow her to come even. Maybe I need to talk more with Mum and Dad.

“Are you listening Gabs, I asked if you like fried potato cakes?”

“Erm soz Con, they're ok I guess. We getting some?” food was starting to appeal.

“Like where from dumbo? Do you see any vendors?”

“Sorree, I was only saying, my stomachs rumbling.”

“I'm hungry too.” Nena added, “Lets go eat in the Dinea.”

“Sounds good to me.” I agreed.

“Okay then.” Con sighed.

It was only a short walk to the Karstadt then a switchback route through the building to the rooftop restaurant. I'm sure I've mentioned these places before; I really enjoy eating in them, although you can end up spending a fair bit if you aren't careful. I settled on a plate of salad stuff, Zweibelsuppe and a slice of apple torte — maybe my rumbling tum will be sated with that.

The girls seemed to have accumulated a few bags of stuff that unusually didn't get re-examined around the table.

“So what now?”

“More shops!” Pia enthused.

“We do still need some stuff for you know what.” Anna mentioned.

“Not more clothes.”

“Well you don't have to come.” Nena pointed out.

“Maybe I wont.”

“You could meet us later if you wanna go do stuff.” Steffi offered.

Hmm, maybe I could go to König's.

“Okay then, where'd you wanna meet?”

“Say four at the Bahnhof?” Steff suggested.

I checked my watch, two thirty.

“Okay, I'll see you on the platform.”

“Laters!” Pia called as they left me outside the Dinea.

König's is on the way to the station and once inside the toy store I made a beeline for the third floor maze where I could indulge my passion for model cars. These shops still amaze me, back in England there's nothing quite like them. And the stuff. I set to, browsing the cabinets of HO cars and trucks; I could treat myself to a couple but what?

I settled on a couple of models, a new Veedub beetle and a coach in the colours of Graf Reisen from up in Essen. I also picked up the latest edition of MAZ, it's a magazine devoted to collecting the HO's, maybe I can get a subscription?

Anyway, money spent I made my way down through the shop.

“Are you okay Fräulein?” a shop girl enquired.

“Ay um er yes thanks, danke.”

My attention returned to the real world as I realised I was not only surveying the infant toys but also worrying a stuffed toys' ear!

“Um, can I get this please?”

“Sure, you want it gift wrapping?”

Hmm, there's an idea.

“Yes please.”

I waited, still in a world of my own; as the girl boxed and wrapped the piebald bunny I had been annoying.

“Zwolf Euro bitte.”

“Sure.” I passed over the dosh then, transaction completed, left the store.

I hugged the parcel to my chest; yep Bernie's sprog will like that.

I checked the time, bum it's nearly four! At least it's not far to the station.

“There you are, we thought you were lost.” Con greeted me.

“Well I'm here now.”

“Looks like our train now.” Anna hinted as the Rhein Express entered the station.

“So what do you think?”

Bern hesitated a bit before answering.

“Well I wouldn't mind, if I'm allowed.”

“Kewl, it wouldn't be straight away, maybe a fortnight?”

“Thank your rents Drew, I seem to be causing all kinds of problems at the moment.”

“Its usually me, maybe you are over compensating for a boring life.” I snorted.

“You could say that!” at least there was a bit of a smile in her voice.

“Well I'd best get off the phone, I'll email you when I know more about you coming over.”

“Thanks again Drew.”

“No problemo, tschuss!”

“Bye”

I ended the call; Mum insisted I invite Bern myself, in person — well in voice over the phone at least. Of course there's all sorts of stuff to sort out and organise, the ‘rents have got Aunt Carol recruited to the cause too, I'm confident that between them they'll get it organised.

I stood in front of the bathroom mirror and studied the person in the reflection. It's me of course and I guess this is what other people see — of course it is! I'm certain I don't look like a girl, so yeah I should get a hair cut and I don't have to shave yet but does that make me a girl. Bum, my breasts are leaking again, Mum reckons they'll dry up in a couple of days but still… I hope that the Doc can suggest something to kick-start my hormones when I see him next week. Maybe then these chest encumbrances will go into reverse, I certainly hope so.

After last weeks disaster of a training ride I checked the weather forecast before setting off this morning. It looked like it could be wet up in the hills so I settled on a slightly longer but flatter ride — down to the Rhein then up to Bonn, over the river and back down to Linz, across the ferry and back home. It was darn cold when I set off and it hasn't really warmed up as I've come down the Ahrtal.

I turned onto the lane that bikes are supposed to take down to Sinzig, geez that was a bit slippery! The sun tried to push through the clouds that left a rather weird light over everything. I've been this way a few times before — well quite a few really, and I used a short cut to get to the path alongside the Rhein. The muddy waters gurgled and churned northwards, much higher than usual, in fact they weren't far off the height of the path!

Not that that was my main concern, as I passed the ferry slip I found a bit of black ice, well dodgy. Geez if I slip on a patch of ice I could end up in the water, not a nice thought. I took it easy along to the Remagen Bridge then as the path was drying turned up the power a bit. After Remagen the path has a really nice surface and a few other bikes, walkers and skaters joined me. I settled into a nice cadence, eating the kilometres comfortably.

Up through Bansdorf and Rolandseck I joined the road traffic then in Bad Godesberg I picked up the riverside path again to take me up to the Königswinter ferry. I like these little ferries but today it was a bit disconcerting with the rushing river pitching the floating bridge about a bit more than I felt comfortable with. Still the crossing only takes a couple of minutes and I was soon heading down the eastern bank towards Bad Honnef. I decided to stick to the road and was soon cruising along at a steady 40kph (25mph).

At Unkel the road rejoins the riverbank and there was a noticeable drop in temperature. Back past Remagen and soon Linz appeared just a couple of kilometres further along. Luck was with me, the ferry was just about ready to depart when I swung onto the slip but I was waved on so with a carefully executed bunny hop I was on board.

This side of the river was distinctly cooler so I kept an eye out for ice as I retraced my outward route back home to Dernau. Nearly two hours after setting off I parked my bike back in the garage and headed for the shower.

“That you Drew?”

“Yes Dad.”

“Good ride?”

“Apart from the cold. The river's well high.”

“Connie rang for you, can you give her a call before you go to work.”

“Sure.”

I decided to call her before my shower.

“What's up Con?”

“Dad's got some photographer bloke coming today to take some pictures for advertising.”

“Is that all?”

“Well I just thought I'd give you the heads up in case it's a bit weird when you get here.”

“Okay, thanks. I'll get showered and I'll come a bit earlier if you like.”

“Good idea.”

“See you in about half an hour then.”

“Okay, Tschuss!”

“Tschuss.”

---

 
Maddy Bell 16.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *13* Bá¤ckerei Blues
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *13*
 

“You are kidding me?”

“Ut uh, straight up.”

“But, but its not like anyone wears that stuff to work here normally.”

“I'm not exactly loving it myself Drew, it's only for today though, pretty please?”

“Like I've got a choice.” I sighed.

“I'll tell daddy while you get changed.”

“Yeah.”

I didn't see this coming, I'm not sure what Herr Thesing is thinking, I mean does he think it'll encourage more custom? I slipped my keks off and tugged their replacement into place, jeez I'll freeze my bits off, it doesn't even reach my knees! Yeah you've guessed it I get to wear a skirt again. I'll have to borrow some tights off Con and I'm changing back as soon as!

Talk about feeling like a right plonker, by the time I actually got into the shop I was wearing a reprise of the pretzel hairdo I ended up with in Berlin and if Con was anything to go by I looked like something out of an old film. You know the sort of thing, like some sort of idealised waitress cum maid except its blue with lots of frilly bits. As long as he doesn't think I'm gonna wear this for real!

Unlike last week we had some customers today, which was good from the photography aspect but dressed like, like a weirdo, it's embarrassing!

So like Max and his mates had to come in didn't they.

“When we are married you can wear your uniform all the time.”

“In your dreams von Strechau!”

What a jerk! Can you believe his front? To make things worse the photographer insisted on some photos of me serving the Strechs so I had to make like I was happy being leered at by Baron von flippin' Strechau. Urgh, the very thought.

So the photographer chap was done by two but we were too busy for us to get changed so we ended up wearing the kinky outfits all afternoon.

“I hope your dad doesn't get any ideas.” I mentioned as I joined Connie on the sofa.

“He can have ideas all he likes.”

 

“That's great Cheryl, I'll let them know. Bye for now”

“Who was that?”

“Oh hi luv, I didn't realise you were back. That was Cheryl, apparently as long as the judge grants permission, which should be a formality, Bernadette can come over.”

“That's great. I suppose we'd best let the kids know.”

“I think our son is in his room, Jules is doing something at school.”

“Okay Dave, I'll talk to Drew then I'll start dinner.”

“Wow, I didn't think it would be this quick!”

“Well I must admit it's quicker than I thought too.” Mum admitted.

“So when can Bern come over?”

“We'll have to see, we need to organise school and some other stuff, I wouldn't reckon it'll be before the middle of next month.”

“It'll be great having her stay.”

“Just remember why she's coming, she's been a very silly young woman.”

“Yes Mum.”

“So we'll have none of your shenanigans when she's here.”

“No Mum.”

“Well I'd best get dinner started.”

‘Burnt offerings tonight then.'

“What was that?”

Geez she's got ears like a flippin' bat!

“Er nothing, have to do some homework tonight.”

“Hmmm, make sure you do it then.”

“Yes Mum.”

Wow its kewl that Bern can come to stay. It'll be kinda weird though; I never thought of her going to school here, she'll have to learn German for starters.

 

 

“So what did you get?” Anna enquired as I joined the girls in Thesing's Wednesday morning.

“Just a few cards so far.”

“You'd best have these too.” Pia passed me several envelopes.

“Thanks. You guys all on for tonight still?”

“As if we'd miss a free meal!” Steff mentioned.

“You are so mercenary. Oh you'll never guess.”

“Guess what?”

I didn't give any clue did I?

“Oh yeah, Bernie, my mate from England.”

“The one who's schwanger ?” Anna suggested.

“The same.”

“She coming to have the baby?” Con enquired.

“I don't think she'll be here that long.”

How long will she be staying? Mum was on about school last night so does that mean she'll be here for a long time?

Did I mention that it's my birthday today? Yup as of midnight last night Andrew Bond, that's me, is fifteen. Not that I feel any different.

“Come on Gabs, get with the programme!” Pia instructed from the doorway.

“Yeah coming.”

“Take care Gaby.”

“Thanks Frau Thesing.”

I quickly joined the little flotilla of bikes and riders outside of the bakery.

 

 

As birthdays go it was turning into a bit of a non event, yes the birthday cards arrived, I got several more at school, goodness knows how they found out, but like fifteen isn't any kind of ‘special' age is it?

One thing that is a bit off are the cards themselves. Now back in Warsop I'd get the generic boy cards from my mates, you know the sort of thing, cars, football, trains. And the cards from England and even the one from Wales are of that ilk; it's the German ones that are the problem! Now don't get me wrong, it's always nice to get the cards but even my friends, who know I'm a boy, have given me girly cards, all flowery with ‘cute' animals and characters on. If I see another Diddlina I'll, I'll do something!

I meant to tell you that I got a card from Rhod or rather Em. At least that one was of some cycle racers. I miss Rhod and even his mum, its been so long since I've seen either of them and even if he has gone all weird he was still my best mate. I think his Dad keeps a tight leash on him / her so these days we hardly even exchange emails. I guess it doesn't help that we are both away from our common ground so everything we talk about is kinda alien to the other. I told her about Bernie but I've not heard from her since.

 

 

“So what's the programme for Saturday?” I asked as we munched our lunch.

“Saturday?” Steff tried the innocent stance.

“Well if there's nothing happening I'll go out on my bike.” I bluffed.

“You can't, it's all arranged.” Brid advised.

“Brid!” Pia groaned.

“Gotcha! So come on, spill.”

“Sorry guys.” Brid apologised before going on, “it's gonna be so kewl Gabs.” She enthused.

“So? You gonna tell me or do I have to wring it out of you?”

“It's a surprise.” Anna mentioned.

“Well I know it's happening so it's not such a surprise.”

“We're not telling you.” Steff put in.

“All you have to do is bring yourself to the bakery for eight thirty.” Nena supplied.

“Eight thirty!”

“Anything wrong with that?” Nena enquired.

“I guess not but I usually have a lie in on Saturdays.”

“Not this week, you're a big girl now!” Connie informed me.

“Give over! It better not be anything all girly.”

“Of course not.” Nena replied maybe a little too quickly.

Hmmm, there's something strange afoot.

 

School over we each headed for home, my birthday meal isn't until seven thirty up at the Sebenschuh's restaurant but we all need to change and stuff. Its gonna be bigger than usual, there's the gang coming plus the Pinger's and a couple of the other Apollinaris peeps, and Roni and her mum might come too. I think Goth Girl is bringing her current boyfriend so there'll be about twenty of us.

 

 

“Drew Bond, get your bum in gear!” Dad shouted up to my eyrie.

“Yeah.”

“The taxi'll be here in ten minutes.”

“Okay.”

The thing is, like I'm not sure I want to go. No that's not right, I want to go but I don't know how I can. How can I explain this? Well it's a bit complicated and awkward really, I hadn't given it any thought until I put out my cards when I got home. Complicated because there are lots of peeps coming and awkward because half are expecting to see like ‘normal' me and half ‘Gaby' me. So okay, pretty much everyone has seen me as Gaby but it's my party, that's Drew Bond, male child of the family. And if I go as myself, you know as a boy its gonna look weird to quite a few people who think I'm a girl, it could really cause some problems if it comes out that I'm not a girl. Oh why me?

So the thing is, what do I wear?

“Come on Kiddo,” Mum called up, “we'll be late.”

“I'm not going.”

“What do you mean, you're not going? It's your party which is costing me and your Dad a small fortune.”

“I'm not stopping you going, but I'm not.”

There was a tapping of heels on the stairway.

“Why aren't you dressed?”

“I'm not going.”

“What's up kiddo?” Mum joined me on my bed, “why don't you want to go?”

Rather than reply I just started to sniffle.

“Come here, tell your old Mum what's wrong.”

I snuggled up to her and she pulled me into a hug.

“So?”

“Everyone is expecting to see a different person tonight.”

“I don't follow, what do you mean?”

“Well like some people like the Sebenschuh's think I'm a girl so I can hardly wear trousers and a shirt can I?”

“Why not? Girls do wear trousers you know.”

“But not to a party, well not chino's anyhow.”

“Oh Drew, you do get in some pickles.” She hugged me tighter.

“You two coming or what?” Dad called up.

“What. You and Jules and whatsisname go on ahead, we'll see you in a bit.”

“Everything okay?”

“We'll be fine Dave, just ask the taxi to come back for us.”

“Okay, see you shortly.”

“Byeee.”

“So young man, what are we going to do with you?"

---

 
Maddy Bell 19.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *14* Sweet Fifteen
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *14*
 

I still wasn't sure about this but Mum did manage to convince me that as a solution it would work. On one hand I can actually claim to be dressing up and on the other those expecting ‘Gaby' get ‘Gaby'. So okay I've had to compromise a bit I admit it does appeal to my sense of the ridiculous!

“You coming, the taxi's here.”

“Won't be a mo.”

I took one last look in the mirror; yup this should be a gas.

Mind you I nearly changed my mind in the taxi, Mum's world champion skinsuit is not exactly the warmest thing to be wearing on a February night!

“Here's the birthday girl.” Frau Thesing announced which of course directed everyone's eyes to where I stood in the restaurant entrance.

“Hi everyone, I couldn't decide what to wear so I decided on something comfortable.”

That at least raised a few giggles and broke the ice — not that anyone else seemed to notice the frozen H²o. At any rate no one said anything, I guess the Gaby people really do see Gaby however I'm dressed and the Drew crowd see Drew. As for me, well I'm not wearing my chinos but I'm also not wearing a dress, a skinny is pretty comfortable and the skin tone tights are keeping a bit of chill off!

Given that its my birthday meal I got to choose the menu he he he! Herr Sebenschuh was pretty accommodating so we were soon tucking into beetroot soup; don't turn your noses up, its delish, honest. That's one thing I've noticed since coming to Germany, most people will happily eat anything, no one I know here is even vegetarian!

Everyone made short work of the soup which means I get to inflict my main course on the assembled guests. Hmm, my mouth was watering before I even smelt it — Mum had to help Herr Sebenschuh with the recipe, but he'd agreed to give it a go anyhow! Well it looked right, it smelt right and a few moments later I could confirm it tasted right, bacon and onion pudding — yummy. There were a few bemused expressions around the big table we were sat about but there wasn't much left on anyone's plate — well Goth Girl didn't eat all of hers but the latest beau, Boris, made short work of her leftovers.

The Germans aren't big on desserts but it's my birthday so I say what goes right. This time we'd left nothing to chance, Mum and me made the bread pudding ourselves, some good classic English stodge served with real Birds custard specially imported for the occasion! Whether they were being polite or they liked it everyone sampled this delicacy and a good percentage even finished their serving. Me, well I was getting a bit bloated but if there had been more I would have forced it down.

“Speech, speech.”

I glared at Jules.

“Go on kiddo.” Dad prompted.

What do you say?

“I um,”

“Thanks for coming.” Mum whispered.

“Er yeah, thank you all for coming I er hope you enjoyed the food, thank you Herr Sebenschuh, I know it was a bit weird.”

“No problem Gaby.”

I blushed a little, “well thanks anyway. Mostly I'd like to thank everyone for coming, I've really had a good time tonight, “ I have really, “and well just thanks everyone.” Public speaker I'm not!

There was some polite applause and a couple of ribald comments from my ‘friends'.

“Happy Birthday to you,” Mum started and everyone else took up the age-old Geburtstag song.

“…Happy birthday dear G D a r b e y w, Happy Birthday to you! For she's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellow, for she's a jolly good fellow and so say all of us!”

I turned a deep shade of pink.

“Presents!” Steffi announced.

So okay I'm a bit mercenary but lets face it, you do sort of expect a prezzie or two on your birthday. My thoughts strayed back to last year at Aunt Carols.

“Me, me, me!” Bern demanded.

“Oh!” Paul sighed, “I wanted to give him mine next.”

Geez! My friends are fighting over who gives me a present now. So far Clive has presented me with a copy of the ‘ Under Arrest' film on DVD, and Rhod, er Em gave me a German/English dictionary, not one of those little things but a proper big one.

Bern passed me her offering, which after a scrabble with the wrapping turned out to be one of those sort of head warmer fleece things. Paul gave me a gift voucher for the Space Centre, Ally added one of those sports wallets to the Pile and Helen's addition was a box of posh continental chocolates. Mad's present looked a bit disappointing, sorry but you know what I mean, just an envelope, which means vouchers. However rather than shop gift tokens it turned out to be a pair of tickets for the Chili Peppers concert later in the year — well cool. The family prezzies were last up, Jules gave me a book about the Tdf and the olds supplied a new pair of cycling shoes, real cool ones that I've had my eye on for a while.

Then of course there was the second round from the girls in the Foresters,

I retrieved the carefully wrapped packages and started unwrapping. Well apart from the fact I wasn't expecting anything these were in a different class — girl friends class! I'm sorry but I can't get too excited about nail varnish, cheap scent and skimpy knickers, well not in that way anyhow. Not when they are for me.

 

Pretty much everything I got last year turned out to be useful even the ‘girl friend' stuff from the cheerleaders — Gaby has to wear something after all! The disappointment of course was missing the Peppers concert, the tickets didn't go to waste though, Maddy went with Ally instead.

“Come on daydream, its prezzie time.” Mum brought me back to the present.

Well the setting may have been different, the people largely too but the present giving pecking order was not greatly dissimilar! What was a surprise was that my school chums each gave me something — I thought the Saturday thing would cover their ‘obligation'. So okay there were more tokens than proper prezzies but I got three new cars for my collection, a nice leather wallet thing, a big donger bell for my Schauff and a book of Gothic poetry from Anna. Somehow they managed to avoid any ‘Gaby' stuff.

Roni however broke my string of luck presenting me with a nice, but girly — well okay girls cut, t-shirt from the Neanderthal museum. I even got a prezzie from Boris, a selection box of Lübeck marzipan, hmm well yummy! There was a collective present from Apollinaris, a generous H&M voucher, and the Pinger's gave me some nice winter cycling gloves.

As usual the family offerings were last. Goth Girl had already made some hints towards what she was getting me so I wasn't surprised to get more model cars from her. Usually I end up with bike stuff from my ‘rents, which is always useful if sometimes a little boring. This year I got a surprise though, a new all singing, all dancing digital camera. My old one, the one I took to America, isn't bad but this one is so much better!

It was Thursday before we got home after what turned out to be a fantastic and a very lootishous evening. Boris was staying over, no not in Jules room, he had drawn the sofa bed in the lounge, he lives in Bonn so he'd go into school with Jules in the morning.

Despite the late hour, nearly one o'clock, I didn't go straight to sleep when I hit the sack. My head was still buzzing from the party and my thoughts strayed to my friends back in the UK again. I know I've missed most of their birthdays since we moved here but them missing mine felt different. They'd sent me cards of course but it's just not the same as having them here with me.

“Drew, come on you'll be late.” Dad shouted up to Drew's Nest.

“What time is it?” I mumbled.

“Half seven, your sister's already left.”

Sugar!

“Coming.”

I couldn't really complain, it was my party last night after all. And I only had two glasses of wine. (As Weinkönigin I have to show my support for the industry!)

“You look how I feel.” Anna groaned.

“That was not helpful.”

“Hi guys!”

“Steff!” we both complained as Pia, Steff and Bridget came in to Thesing's.

I wasn't the only one running a bit late; we'd have to get a clog on when we set off.

“Sorry, great party Drew.”

“Er yeah.”

“Did Boris behave himself?” Pia enquired.

“I guess so, they were gone when I got up.”

“Tell Jules I'll take him off her hands.” Brid sighed.

“Brid!” we all exclaimed.

“Well I think he's cute.”

“Like a Veruca!” Connie suggested.

To be fair to Boris — and my sister, he was neither particularly good nor bad looking; just sort of ordinary and he did buy me marzipan.

“He's not that bad.” I offered in his defence.

“See, Gabs fancies him too.” Brid stated.

“I do not! I was just saying.”

I felt myself colour up but was saved further embarrassment by Con's mum.

“Come on girls, time you were off, you don't want to be late.”

Late, oh sugar its Herr Viessner's test in English this morning! I so do not want to be late for that, last time someone was late they had to write an essay on Charles Dickens. I really don't want to pull one of those.

“Come on, last one on their bike is a Max lover!”

Well you've never seen six girls move so fast! I was nearly trampled in the rush.

As a school day Thursday turned out to be uneventful — well apart from the English test and the surprise test in German. Languages, love ‘em or hate ‘em, can't get by without ‘em! Its not really as bad as I paint it, I have like a fourteen year advantage in English and my German is improving all the time, like it has to as the only time I speak English is at home or in Herr Viessner's class.

“I'm home!”

“Hi Drew.”

“Hi Mum.”

“I forgot yesterday kiddo but there're some presents on the side from England.”

“Presents? Who from?”

“The girls and your Gran, your Aunt Carol sent them all together to save on postage.”

“Kewl.” I announced with barely a hint of avarice.

“And remember you have a training session tonight.”

“I know.”

Sometimes being a sports hero has its drawbacks.

This last collection of birthday swag really brought home to me what I lost when we moved out here. These presents were from people who knew me inside and out, well not Helen but the two of us had sort of clicked. Gran cheated of course, I got fifty Euros wrapped around some Thornton's Special toffee. (My other GP's already sent the usual £20 with their card, as did Dad's siblings, its traditional!) Ally got me a DVD of American Flyer which looks pretty cool, it's about a kid who is really into racing in America but thinks all things European are cool.

Helen must've taken advice cos she got me the latest Kashimashi volume. Mad surprised me with a subscription to the Comic, which was something I missed with a vengeance, reading CW each Thursday, seeing my race results in print. I guess it was kinda from her olds too as I know its not cheap. The last of the pile was from Bern, a big pot mug with like my name embossed on one side in big letters — G A, no just kidding, it has DREW on it and it must've been made special cos like I've never seen anything with Drew on before. Geez, talk about made up!

Training tonight wasn't on the bike but at the Apollinaris gym with the team and a bunch of other local riders. We do circuits to improve overall fitness, you know, step ups, a bit of running, a few weights. After we warm up with a short run around the yard we do two laps then we break for the indoor running before another lap of the circuit stations. The team do it twice a week but mere plebs like me only get to join in on Thursdays.

Its amazing how fit Mum looks now, to think how ill she was just a year ago. In fact I think she looks fitter than I've ever seen her, she makes me look like a pie man and I'm quite skinny but you can see she's all muscle — not that the other girls aren't its just I see more of Mum!

My body was there, I wasn't slacking honest, but my mind was away thinking of all sorts of stuff, my latest prezzie haul, my ‘surprise' on Saturday and never far from the front of my mind, Bernie.

“And one last effort!”

---

 
Maddy Bell 22.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *15* Surprise, Surprise!
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *15*
 

“You haven't got training or stuff tomorrow?” Brid enquired as we tucked into lunch.

“First thing, why?”

“Er nothing, so what time can you get to Con's?”

“Nine?”

“No earlier?” Pia interjected.

There goes my long relaxing shower.

“I suppose I could manage half eight.”

“Kewl!” Nena chirped.

“What are you guys up to? Its nothing weird is it?”

“Well-ll.” Stef grinned.

“Oh yeah, don't wash your hair.” Brid interjected.

“Huh?”

“Yeah, I never thought of that.” Con mentioned.

“Whatever.”

Anything for a quiet life.

“So have you heard when your friend will be coming?” Anna deftly changed the subject.

“Not yet, Mum thinks it will be about two weeks.”

“Will she come to school with us?” Pia asked the question I asked Mum last night.

“Maybe, she might go to Bonn with Jules instead as her German isn't very good.”

“We'd help.” Bridget enthused.

“Yeah, like I said it depends.”

That reminds me, I've gotta help Dad clear out the guest room, it's become a bit of a dump it site since Gran was here at Chrimbo! Still it shouldn't take long; we can do it after I've been on the turbo tonight. With any luck I can still catch Hausmeister and the rest of comedy night on RTL. It's not exactly Blackadder or Summer Wine but it's the best available here.

“What do you think Drew?”

“Huh?”

“Pay attention girl, Tom Cruise, is he gay?” Nena supplied.

“How should I know? I thought he was married?”

“And your point?” Brid asked.

I guess that doesn't really mean anything, they're even talking of same sex marriage at home in England.

“Nothing I guess.”

I was saved any further thought on the matter by the afternoon bell.

“See you in the morning!”

“Eight thirty remember.” Con reminded me.

“Eight thirty.” I sighed, “night.”

I left Con and headed back home through the dark streets of Dernau. Sounds dramatic buts its no distance really so I was home in another five minutes even on the lumpy Schauff with my school books.

“I'm home.”

“We were wondering who was parking their bike in the garage.” Dad replied.

“Funny. What's for tea?”

“Thought we might order pizza later.” Mum supplied.

“Okay.”

“Cheryl Rose rang earlier.”

“Huh?” I really will have to stop that; I must sound like a right thicko.

“It's all sorted, Bernie'll come over next week.”

“Next week!”

“Keep your hair on. Yes next week.” Mum confirmed.

“So you and me have our work cut out kiddo.” Dad advised, “as soon as you've finished on the turbo we'll crack on shifting the stuff out of the spare room.”

“I said I would.”

“Best crack on then.” Mum advised.

Its all right for her, she gets to train in the day.

I prefer rollers to the turbo but some stuff you can't really do that easily on them. Like tonight's session, it's only an hour, that includes ten minutes warm up and five minutes cool down. The bit in the middle'll be sheer purgatory though, three sets of Fartlek, each at a higher resistance level than the one before. It's all kinda computerised so all I have to do is ride and do what it says on the screen. Dad'll download the data later to check I haven't been slacking. Bluh!

My bike was already on the torture machine so I set the CD player going, a compilation of tunes mostly with a strong rhythm. Fan on, engage pedals, check everything is running and press ‘GO'. One thing that you get on both rollers and the turbo is the noise — a lot of noise, at least until you get to about 40kph when the volume drops. It's a good effort indicator but it does mean you need to use earphones!

I was soon spinning away comfortably and by the end of the warm up, even with the fan set to ‘gale' I steady trickle of sweat was running into and out of my bra. It used to be worse before I got these with a sort of pocket to slip your HRM into, then the heart rate monitor band was a further discomfort! The bra really is essential these days, not just because it keeps my chest under control but it stops the sweats dripping off my nips!

The first session was really just a continuation of the warm up, increase the effort for a minute, rest for thirty and repeat five times then the level goes up but the rest drops to twenty, then its like all out with ten second recovery. After that it starts all over again at a higher resistance — twice! I watched the readout with eyes popping out and sweat pouring down my near naked torso, forty five, six, seven — keep it going, fifty one, two, three — yes! It's tempting to just stop pedalling but its better to keep the legs rotating.

The high-pitched whine lowered in tone to a steady roar as I gasped lungs full of air before hanging my head in exhaustion. After about a minute I was recovered enough to sit up grab a towel and the drink bottle and start the after ride rehydration routine.

“What peeza you want Drew?” Jules enquired, “I'm gonna fetch them from Adolf's.”

‘Dolf's is our local pizza shop here in Dernau, they are only open three nights a week and if you turn up on spec you can sometimes wait an hour! The thing I hate though is the German's haven't heard of deep pan so it can be a bit like eating cheese on cardboard.

“American please with extra olives.”

“Okay.”

My sister is being unusually pleasant lately.

“Lets crack on then Kiddo.” Dad suggested.

Most of the stuff we had to move could either go straight in the bins or like the Christmas decorations, go via my bedroom into the attic space. The biggest job was to move the table tennis table down to the garage, it was a bit of a pain but we managed it with remarkably little damage to the house, garden and ourselves!

The food arrived on the back of Goth Gurl's Mofa just as we completed that tricky manoeuvre so we took a break.

“Where'll Bern go to school?”

“I spoke to Frau Boxberg earlier, she said she could go with you but she was concerned about Bern's lack of German.”

“We'll help.” I stated.

“I know you will but it might be best if she goes to Bonn with your sister, they teach the same curriculum as in Warsop.” Mum told us.

“Maybe Bernadette should have a say?” Dad suggested.

“Well I've laid the foundations at the Gymnasium and the School.” Mum mentioned. “So what have you two got left to move?”

“Chrimbo stuff to the attic and that's about it, then its all yours my love.”

Get a room Dad!

“When'll she come?” I enquired.

“Cheryl'll ring tomorrow with the travel arrangements.”

“Okay.”

“So what are you up to tomorrow young man?” Dad asked.

“I'm out with the girls.”

“Oh your birthday surprise.” Mum interjected.

“Yeah, no idea what we're doing, I don't suppose?”

“No good asking me, your friends are hardly likely to confide in me are they?”

“Dad?”

“That goes double for me.”

“Well I had to ask.”

“Come on then, let's finish moving stuff then you can get a shower.”

Well I thought it would be better to leave doing that till after all the humping of stuff round the house. The down side to that was that I'm probably a bit whiffy by now!

It was nearly eleven when I turned out the bedside light. I missed Hausmeister , but I did manage to tape it so maybe I'll watch it tomorrow night. I never expected Bern to be coming so quickly — I'll have to mail her tomozz. Wonder what the girls have got planned for tomorrow? I haven't got a clue; it's a bit weird about not washing my hair though. That's well weird. Those olives are repeating a bit!

700km and two hours earlier.

 

“So when do you go?” Helen asked around a particularly large chip.

Mad had fetched the food from the Hygenic Fisheries on her way over to Bern's; they'd needed warming up by the time she arrived.

“Some time this week, Mum's booking it tomorrow.”

“You lucky cow, staying with Drew, wish I was going.” Mad sighed.

“Its not like it's a holiday.” Ally pointed out.

“Hardly, I still have to go to school.”

“School?” Mad queried.

“Like what you do between nine and four?” Ally mentioned.

“Du-uh! I just never thought about Bern going to school in Germany.”

“We went in America.” Bernie added.

“And they do have schools in Germany so I hear.” Helen tittered.

“Alright already!” Mad huffed.

“So how long are you staying for? Don't you have to go to court or something?” Ally asked her mate.

“Yeah but not like for ages, April sometime. So I guess I might be away for a few weeks.”

To tell the truth she wasn't that sure about going at all, the Bond's offer had come out of the blue and after the last few weeks, well months, she grabbed it with both hands. But now, well now she wasn't so sure. Her mum was pretty keen on the idea, probably to get Bern out of her hair for a bit after all having your teenage daughter in the house 24/7 for several weeks is enough to stretch any parents patience. She'd go, at least for a couple of weeks, for her mum's sake. It was sort of like she was running away though and she'd resolved not to run away from things when Drew was in Warsop the other week. Staying wouldn't solve anything either so what did it really matter where she was?

“So you won't be coming back to school then?” Helen queried.

“I doubt it, least not till the autumn.”

“What about your exams?” Ally enquired.

“I suppose I'll get some home schooling or something. Anyway I might be too busy with junior.”

“When's it due?”

“August Mad, around Mums birthday.”

“Anyone want some more chips, I'm stuffed.” Helen stated.

---

 
Maddy Bell 29.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *16* Yes Milady
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *16*
 

“So what're we doing?”

“Oh no you don't Drew Bond!” Stef admonished.

It was worth a try.

“Its all organised.” Anna grinned.

It was a feral grin, I'm not sure I'm gonna like this.

“Pia's here, come on.” Brid enthused.

“Where we going?”

“You'll find out soon enough.” Con stated taking one arm while Anna took the other.

“Morning Drew!” Pia greeted me. “This is gonna be fun!”

“So everyone keeps telling me.”

Now I'm usually pretty easy going but even I was a bit concerned with the number of bags my ‘friends' had with them, something was afoot, something big and I'm not sure I will be enjoying it as much as they insist I will!

We walked over to the station arriving just in time for the Remagen bound train. As usual at stupid o'clock on a Saturday morning it was pretty empty and spotting us Myleen came through for a chat — she already knows we have year tickets.

“So where are you lot off to?”

“We're taking the Königin for a birthday treat.” Steff supplied.

“When's the big day?”

“It was Wednesday.” I got in before someone made a weird comment.

“Our little Prinzessin was fifteen.” Pia mentioned.

“Well congratulations Gaby. So where are you headed?”

Yep, even Myleen has cottoned on to ‘Gaby'!

“Only to Bad, Gabs doesn't know the plans yet.” Anna allowed.

Hmm, Bad Neunahr, now where can we be going there?

It's only a couple of stops from Dernau to Bad so we were getting off just moments later.

“Bye girls, have a good day.”

“Bye Myleen.”

“Tschuss!”

“Bye.”

The Express pulled away leaving us on the excuse for a platform.

“So where now?”

“Bus,” Steff told me, “come on or we'll miss it.”

I followed the others through to the forecourt and over to the Bushaltestelle.

“Five minutes.” Brid informed us after checking the timetable.

There're only a couple of bus routes running from here, I have very rarely caught one but more usually I see them outside of school. It wasn't the warmest day of the year and I resorted to a bit of foot shuffling to keep warm. I don't think I've fully warmed up after training — I really coulda done with a long shower this morning!

“Here it comes.” Pia squealed.

“Calm down P, its only a bus.” Nena chided.

Our next transport was not exactly in the first flush of youth, not for Ahrtal the fancy new buses you see in Koblenz or Bonn, no we get some right old bangers! I thought I might find out our destination but our Regionalkarte's covered the journey and a destination board reading Ahrweiler wasn't much of a clue.

I don't know the town too well so I was a bit thrown when we turned off before the shops towards the river. If memory serves it will come out somewhere near the Kursaal complex.

“Next stop.” Brid announced as we crossed the river.

The bus clattered to a halt, did I mention it was a bit of a banger, and we all piled off. Now I knew where we were exactly, the Spa Centre.

“Now where?”

“Inside dummy!” Con informed me with a gentle shove.

“But I don't have my kit.”

“Taken care of!” Steff advised patting her oversize bag.

I just rolled my eyes and followed the others.

In case you're wondering, the Spa Centre is a public complex with various pools and treatment rooms that take advantage of the warm springs on this side of the river. I caught up with the others at the check-in desk.

“So, who is the lucky girl?”

“Gab's here.” Con pointed me out to the girl on the desk.

“Ah zo, well come on then, your friends have splashed out on the works for you.”

“Guys?”

“Go on, here your stuff is in here.” Steff pushed her bag into my unresisting arms as I limply followed the assistant out of the reception area.

“We gonna have a dip while we wait?” I heard Anna ask as the door swung shut behind me.

“So Gaby, put your costume on and then go through to treatment room three.”

I nodded numbly, what have those girls got me into now?

At least between them they supplied a reasonably sensible swimming cozzie, well if you are a girl and it seems that today I am! The blue one piece was of a modest cut and full enough that my little friend was easily hidden — its not like I've not done that before either. I wrapped a towel around me and with some trepidation headed into treatment room three.

A blow-by-blow account of the next couple of hours would be tedious to say the least and nigh on impossible anyhow as I was asleep for extended periods of the morning. What I can tell you is that I was variously subjected to kneading, steaming, two different mud treatments, a vigorous massage session (I slept through most of it) and a scalp massage. I dread to think how much all this was costing, still not my worry.

I acquired a towelling robe and was pointed towards a ‘Schönheitstudio' at this point, whatever that is (I'm guessing its some sort of beauty parlour). My experience of such places is limited to Sylv Morgan's emporium; this place may as well be on a different planet.

“Ah so, Gaby Bont?” the white coated woman inside enquired.

“Bond.”

“Ja, lets see, two, three, seven, hmm full, “ she glanced up from her clipboard to give me the once over, “yes full, shape and nails. The works!”

“Works?”

I didn't like the sound of that.

“Yes, come, in the chair please.”

I could just leg it I guess?

“Make yourself comfortable and we'll get started.”

As I found out over the next hour or so that little lot involved copious amounts of warm wax and some swift arm movements as I was efficiently stripped of body hair. I've done it before and much to my later embarrassment I did again today, I fell asleep.

“Ah so you are awake again, I've never had anyone sleep through a waxing before.” She advised as she finished rubbing moisturiser into my feet.

“Er sorry, I'm a bit tired.”

“It wasn't a complaint Liebchen, anyway you're ready for Anneka now, I'll send her in.”

She departed leaving me in the chair wondering what was coming next. Hmm at least I won't have to worry about my legs for a few weeks; on the other hand I coulda done without the naked arms! I can strip the nail polish off later; I'll let the girls have their fun.

“You must be the sleeping Gaby.”

“Um yeah.”

“I'm Anneka, lets get your hair sorted out.”

Hair! I didn't sign up for this!

I needn't have worried, other than a wash and hot oil treatment Anneka only trimmed a few stray ends and tidied my mop up a bit. I must admit I was well past due for a visit to the hairdressers so that was pretty cool too. However the attentions of the last technician were less welcome.

“Gabeee!” Pia greeted me as I emerged into the coffee lounge.

“Wow!” Con managed.

“Hoowee!” Anna confirmed.

“I'll get you for this!” I threatened from behind my spidery lashes.

“Its Brid's fault.” Nena pointed the finger at her neighbour.

“We all agreed!” Brid whined.

“Did you have to let Picasso loose on me, she even did my boobs!”

‘Just a little accent.'

That broke any tension and we all ended up in a fit of giggles.

“Well we can't let all this work go to waste.” Steff stated.

“Huh?”

“You don't think we got you all gussied up to go shopping do you?”

“Er”

I really need to work on my conversation skills.

“Come on Gabs.” Pia enthused dragging me back towards the changing rooms.

“You've got to be kidding!”

“It's a dance we're going to not a disco.” Brid explained.

“And?”

“And you wear a dress to a dance.” Nena told me for a second time.

“But guys?”

“You don't have to wear it but you'll look a bit daft in jeans.” Con suggested.

Grrr! So okay I'm being conned into a dress again, but pity the boy, this one is just sooo frilly!

“We are all wearing the same.” Anna pointed out.

“I know but…”

“But?” Steff enquired.

I'm not going to win this argument am I? What the heck, its only a dress.

“Okay” I sighed.

“Yes!” Pia punched the air.

“Well let's get on with it then.” Nena encouraged.

So that's how I ended up dressed like Doris Day in some 1950's kitsch movie. The girls had hired the frocks specially; well you didn't think twenty first century teens would own stuff like this did you? The dance was in the Kursaal next door, I guess back home you'd call it a tea dance, did I feel a plonker! Worse, half our year at school were there, well the kids who do the social stuff, you know like the anti Valentines thing the other week. And you can guess who I got landed with to dance, Max von flippin Strechau! I'm sure the girls are setting me up.

I must admit that it did turn out to be a fun afternoon; I mean none of us could do the dances properly; we just sorta aped the oldies gliding around the room. I think they were a bit miffed at first but by the time the band wrapped up everyone was having a laugh.

Of course come time to go home and there's nowhere to get changed.

“Its not my fault!” Brid pouted.

“You said there was a changing room.” Con accused.

“Guys! Guys! There isn't so lets just go huh? If we get a move on we can get the six thirty Express.” I pointed out.

So I wasn't thrilled to have to walk the streets dressed like this either but it was getting chilly and standing around arguing wasn't making that change, well only for the worse!

We made it with barely a minute to spare; we had to walk as we'd already missed the bus. Thankfully it wasn't actually that far but them shoes weren't made for walking — very far!

---

 
Maddy Bell 30.12.08  © 2008
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *17* Fogetit
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *17*
 

So of course I couldn't go straight home could I? Oh no we had to go back to Thesing's where Con's mum plied us with hot chocolate and soup and, after an impromptu photo session, I managed to get out of the frock and back into my jeans. Warmer and less embarrassing even if I did keep the hose on underneath — it's turning damn cold you know. It was turned eight before I got away, nearly half past before I arrived home.

“Good day kiddo?” Mum enquired from the bundle of bodies on the sofa.

“I guess.”

“Well don't sound too enthusiastic then.”

“Soz.”

“So what did you get up to then?”

“We just went into Bad.”

I slumped into a chair and tucked my feet under me; maybe they'll defrost a bit.

“You didn't just go into Neuenahr.” Mum stated.

“Just tell her Drew, it'll be quicker.” Dad suggested.

Well I guess he's right, Mum can be a bit of a terrier, once she has her teeth in she won't let go.

“Went to the Spa and a dance.” I mumbled.

“The Spa? Hmm I must go for a facial sometime, so what did you do, sauna and swim?”

“Erm not exactly.”

“What do you mean ‘not exactly'?”

“Well the girls treated me to the works.”

“The works?”

“Yep you name it, I had it, I mean I didn't know what was going on did I?”

“That must've cost a bob or two.” Dad grunted not moving his attention from the film on the box.

“I hope you thanked them.” Mum noted.

“Yeah.”

“So you went to the Kursaal for the afternoon dance?”

“Um yeah, like Steff got everyone from school to go too.”

“You went like that?”

“Er not exactly.”

Mum just raised her eyebrows.

“The guys hired these like old fashioned dancing togs, it was like quite good fun really.”

“These ‘togs' I presume were dresses?”

“Kinda.” I admitted.

“Well that explains the makeup.”

Sugar I'd forgotten about that!

“Um they did it at the Spa.”

“Very sophisticated.”

My revenge for this one needs to go up a peg.

The kitchen door slammed shut announcing the arrival of Goth Girl.

“Hi guys!”

“Hi love.” Dad managed.

“Ooh nice eyebrows bro.”

Eyebrows?

“Huh?”

“There's something with your hair too, you been to the beauty parlour?” Jules ploughed on.

“The girls took him to the Spa.”

“Huh, well looks good anyhow.”

Praise indeed from my sister. Eyebrows?

“I'm gonna go on the pooter.”

“Oh while I remember, Bernie will be here on Friday, Cheryl's coming with her but only for the weekend.”

“Kewl.”

I stared at the mirror, this was actually the first time I'd had a chance to look at myself and I was not happy about what was reflected. Just wait you guys, I am so gonna get you back for this! You might recall that I get mistaken for a girl from time to time — annoying but not the end of the world. The visage in the mirror on the other hand was a girl, not just me looking a bit girly but there is just no way anyone could imagine the cutie staring back at me was anything but a girl.

I hadn't realised but the ‘trim' has left me with a decidedly girl hairstyle, yeah its about the same length and not much different to before but instead of the usual bit of a mop appearance it looks, erm, looked after. And my eyebrows, now its not like they've not been tidied up a bit before but the delicate things above my eyes should only ever be on a girl! How on earth will anyone take me for a boy looking like this?

Remove the makeup. Good plan. I retrieved my remover and cotton pads, I know but I do have to wear the stuff as Königin, and set about removing the face paint. I hadn't realised I was wearing so much but eventually the cotton pads came up clean so out of habit I whacked on some moisturiser. I looked in the mirror again.

“YAAAGH!”

“Give over up there!” Jules shouted up a moment or two later.

“Er could you come up Jules?” this was sh-scary.

A minute later my sister came into my room.

“What's up?”

“My face.”

“What's wrong with it, bit too cute for a boy…”

“The makeup?” I half whined.

“What about it? Not my style but it suits you.”

“But I've just taken it all off! Look!” I pointed to the pile of soiled Baumwolle in the bin.

“Lets have a look, come into the light.”

She scraped and rubbed for a couple of minutes, all the time making a few ooh's and aah's.

“Well,”

“What?” I asked freeing myself from her grip.

“Well it looks like you'll be wearing it for a while.”

“Come again?”

“When she put the make up on did she do anything different to like usual?”

“I can't remember, I think I fell asleep for a bit. Why?”

“You oh brother of mine have got some very nice semi permanent makeup. Wish I could afford it.”

“What? Permanent? You mean it won't come off? Ever?” I was fast moving into the panic zone.

“Whoa! Back up. I said semi permanent, it'll fade eventually, it usually lasts about six weeks I think.”

“Six weeks!” I screeched. I'm stuck looking like this for six weeks?”

“Well it might be longer.” Jules was not helping here.

“Everything ok up there?” Dad enquired.

“Yeah, Gab was just showing me something.” Jules called back.

“Well keep it down a bit please.”

“Yes Dad.” We both chorused.

“What am I gonna do?”

“Do?”

“Well duh! I am still your brother you know.”

“Not looking like that.”

“Some help you are, just wait till I get hold of my ‘friends'!”

“Look you can always cover it up, pencil your brows in a bit.”

“How will that work?”

“Come here, where's your makeup?”

Well I had to admit, using makeup to cover makeup was a novel idea but by the time Jules was finished I did look a lot more like me. Talk about hassle.

“There you go, not that I'd bother.”

“You're not a boy.”

She didn't answer that.

The problem with the cover up scheme was that I'll have to take it off each night. Why me? I decided not to say anything to the olds — at least for now, maybe if I go back to the Spa they can get it off.

I decided to get an early night so I spent another ten minutes undoing Jules efforts to reveal the made up me again. I suppose it coulda been worse, it was really quite subtle, my upper lids sporting a blend of bluey greens with just a hint of lighter highlight by the brow line. The bit you can't hide is the eyeliner but at least it's not black! Oh and I forgot to mention the lip liner! Not that I'll be able to forget it for a while.

At least I slept through the waxing! I rubbed my naked arms, it does feel kinda nice even if it's not that manly, not that my arms are usually that hairy anyhow. Then an awful thought occurred to me, if I was asleep when that woman was doing it, and even when she did my brows, did she do anywhere else? Please God; don't let her have done there!

In my mind I knew the truth of it but I had to confirm my fears didn't I? I pulled my jeans down to my thighs and followed with my tights and knickers. My few straggly signs of puberty are now definitely fewer; the few that remain just above my thingy are neatly trimmed into a little heart! Urgh! So okay I can finish the job with a razor but if she did that she must've seen Herbert, I am so dead! She never said anything though so hopefully she won't; it's too late to worry about it now anyhow.

I finished undressing and found myself looking in the mirror once again, apart from Herbert I must admit I do look a lot more like a girl than any fifteen year old boy ever should. I pulled Herbert between my legs and from 95% the reflection showed 100% girl, am I doomed to stay like this? Maybe the doctors have come up with something, which they'll tell us on Tuesday. I struck a few ‘manly' poses, it wasn't very convincing so I just pulled on some pants and slipped a nightdress over my head. What? You think I'm gonna waste all that waxing? Hairless legs — and arms are just sooo sexy!

Goodness knows what I dreamt about last night; I woke up all kinda tied up in my duvet with my nightdress scrunched up under my booblets. Weird — and cold! Yup its cold, and dark and I've got to go training — roll on summer!

A watery sun was just making its presence known by the time I slipped out of the garage. It was still damn cold though; there was a fair bit of frost about so I needed to look out for ice on the roads too. I headed up to Altenahr, a steady enough climb until the gorge then up and through the tunnel before it levels out again.

Instead of turning for Effelsberg I followed the river and railway south and headed for Adenau. Now its time for the hard graft, I decided to go over Hohe Acht to Kempenich, the top is over 700m, a 400m climb from Adenau. For the first time this morning my mind wandered from riding the bike and I found myself sort of humming some ancient tune from Fleetwood Mac. Okay, Dad likes them alright?

This time next week Bern'll be here, I wonder how that's gonna go? It'll be different to when the guys visited last year, for one I'm in school and she's staying for more than a week.

I ran through some stuff we could do but it can't all be shopping trips, I still have to fit training in and work.

 

Work, I'll have it out with Con later, hmm maybe if I've got time I can call in at the Spa this morning and get this makeup business sorted.

 

I changed down another sprocket as the hill started to bite and was soon out of the saddle in an effort to keep the speed up. Despite the rising sun it was still flippin' cold, not helped by the increase in altitude.

Wha-a-a break the chain,

Whoo-oo-oo break the chain.

Okay so I don't know the proper words but the tune is good to ride with.

---

 
Maddy Bell 01.01.09  © 2009
 

Gaby Book 6 - Girls, Girls, Girl?
Chapter *18* Accuser
by Maddy Bell

---

 

 

 

---

 
Chapter *18*
 

Over the top of Kempenich and there's over 600m to lose in height so it's a fast leg all the way to Brohl on the Rhein. My finger tips were dropping off, well they felt like it so I hit overdrive and concentrated on going fast. I enjoy riding fast for its own sake, it gets the ole adrenalin pumping and I defy anyone to say they hate that ‘rush'. I had a bit of extra rush when I got a bit sidewise crossing the railway lines above Brohl but I was still upright and travelling.

I stuck to the main road up to Sinzig then it's all up hill, albeit only just, to home. There was only one problem with my plan to stop off at the Spa, I was too early! Ah well, I'll go after school tomorrow.

“You look very nice this morning Gaby,” Frau Thesing mentioned, “we don't usually see you with makeup, what's the occasion?”

Shitza! I knew there was something I had to do before work.

“Erm nothing, just fancied a change.”

“Next you'll be wearing Kleid unt Rock to work!”

Not this side of hell freezing. I just gave her a smile.

“I'll just wash up.”

“Give that daughter of mine a shout while you are there.”

“Sure.”

I want words with her too.

“Gabs, didn't hear you come in.”

“Your Mom wants you.”

“You did your makeup, we'll make a girl of you yet.” She escaped any retaliation with a neat sidestep.

“So how come you're wearing der Lidschatten und der Lippenstift? Nice colour by the way.”

“You know damn well why I'm wearing it!”

“Did I miss something?”

“Yesterday, at the Spa.”

“Yes?”

“You guys got them to put on semi permanent makeup. I'm stuck like this for weeks!” I raved at my friend.

“We wouldn't do that Drew, are you sure?”

“Of course I'm sure, look” I wiped my hand over an eyelid and showed her the result.

“Oh mein Gott! Honest Drew we didn't pay for that, just an ordinary makeover.”

“Well if this is ordinary I'm a Dutchman.”

“I'm so sorry Liebchen, we'll have to get it removed.”

“Not happening, Jules checked on't interweb this morning, it's a sort of surface tattoo, it'll fade in about six weeks.”

“We can get the Spa to do something.”

“Like what?”

“Erm.”

“Exactly!”

“There's one good thing, it suits you, those colours.”

“I guess it coulda been worse, but like it looks like I'm wearing makeup and school?”

“Shitza!”

“I think I can get away with covering it with foundation.”

Any further conversation was halted by the arrival of some customers. I didn't want to believe my friends had set me up and Con's reaction kicked that into touch. So just how did I end up getting the ‘treatment'?

 

 

“We're coming by coach.” Bern answered.

“Coach?”

“It's cheaper and less hassle.”

“It takes days though.”

“Don't be such a drama queen, we get the coach in London in the evening and we're in Germany next morning.”

“You'd be here the same day if you flew.”

“Yeah but its over £100 each way and we'd have to pay extra for my luggage.”

“I guess.” I allowed.

“I can bring more stuff this way coz Mum won't have much.”

“So why's she coming anyway?”

“Bail condition, your ‘rents even have to sign for me, its so embarrassing.”

“Better than being stuck there though.”

“Yeah, sort of.”

“We can go to Phantasialand.”

“If you insist.”

She didn't sound too enthusiastic.

“Second thoughts?”

“Kinda, I don't know anyone there, well except for like you and yours.”

“You met the girls last year.” I pointed out.

“But they're not like Ally an' Mad.”

There was no answer to that, even eight months after coming here I still long for the old days.

“How is it with them?”

“A lot better thanks to you, its still a bit weird though, they've got school in common, I don't anymore, I've just got this tutor woman twice a week, its not the same.”

“Guess not, but you'll be in school here which is cool, I won't be the only one being picked on in Herr Viessner's class.”

“That doesn't sound good.”

“Well its not actually bad, its English so I do sorta have a bit of advantage dun I?”

“I'm worried about that as well, you know the German?”

“Don't sweat it, if I can manage you can, you're much better at languages than me.”

“But it's different when you're in a maths class, or history or something.”

“Don't I know it! I'll be there though.” I chirped.

“I'd best get off the phone, you've got school in like eight hours.”

“Bum! I've got an essay to write too.”

“Okay, see you next weekend what is it? Chooce!”

“Yeah, night Bern, take care — bon voyage!”

“Night Drew.”

I put the phone down, geez we've been on the phone for almost an hour! And I really do have an essay to right.

 

 

“So its like permanent?” Pia asked.

“She just said P.” Anna pointed out.

“What're you gonna do?” Brid enquired.

“I'm going over after school to see if there's anything they can do.”

“We'll come too.” Steff stated.

“You don't have to.”

“Friends stick together.” Anna put in.

“Thanks guys, and thanks again for Samstag.”

“It was fun,” Nena bubbled, “the look on the Barons face when you trod on his foot! Priceless!”

“The guys got two left feet!” I mentioned.

“And you haven't?” Anna grinned.

“Mine are both right.”

“You make a good match then.” Con chortled.

“As if!”

“Come on D, you need to touch up your makeup.”

This is a pain!

 

“This isn't possible.”

“So how do you explain Gabs face then.” Steff was showing her hard side to the receptionist at the Spa.

“It was done somewhere else.”

“That's it, get the manager!”

“Steff, its alright.” I tried to defuse her.

“No its not Gab, they're responsible, you could be stuck like this for like months!”

“I hope not.”

“Well if you are someone's gonna pay!”

I'm glad I'm on her side.

The receptionist type person returned with an older woman in a white coat.

“Hello girls, there is a problem?”

“Yes,” Steff started, “we clubbed together to give Gabs here a birthday treat on Saturday, the full works.”

“Ah the girl who sleeps through a waxing.”

“Um yes.” I confirmed.

“So what is the problem ladies?”

“Well whoever did the makeup made a mistake, she gave Gabs like permanent makeup.”

“She had black hair.” I offered.

“This isn't possible, that treatment is €200.”

“Just look at her face.” Steff was warming up again.

The woman did examine my face then.

“It seems you are correct but I don't see the problem, you got a €200 treatment and only paid €30.”

“But I don't want it.”

“Well I'm sorry young lady but there's nothing we can do.”

“Can't you like remove it somehow?” Steff urged.

“If it were so easy. It is a long lasting treatment, it is why people are willing to pay so much for it, the materials we use generally last up to eight weeks.”

“But?” Steff started.

“Forget it Steff, looks like I got an unwanted gift that I'll have to live with. Mum's gonna kill me.”

“We're not happy!” Brid added.

“Look, I can see you're upset and it was our mistake, how about a free session?”

“For all of us?” Steff pressed.

The woman hesitated slightly, “er yes, all of you.”

“Deal!” Steff agreed.

So it looks like I'm stuck with the makeup but I do get a free spa session, some trade!

---

 
Maddy Bell 01.01.09  © 2009