Part One     "Matinée"

 
Please note that this is the second book in the Tommy & Tamara Series.

If you have not already done so, please read The Ceilidh, Toms Fireworks and Tamara's Début. A Character Index is available.

 

And now the story continues

 
 
Saturday 13th December
 

Tammy woke early on the Saturday morning, confused how she’d ended up in bed as she couldn't recall much of the previous late evening. Several bunches of flowers adorned her room, presented to her at the opening night of West Side Story at Thurso's Mill Theatre. Looking at the clock it was just before seven but knew she wouldn’t now get back to sleep.

After a trip to the bathroom she dug out some documents her father had requested, leaving them on her desk to be picked up later. Tammy then booted the laptop and checked her emails, nothing there apart from some spam, next she accessed Amazon and ordered a few things for herself and as presents. With that done, she was having a wander around the BBC’s site, trying to keep up with current affairs. There was a knock at the door, it was still only seven fifteen.

“Come in.”

“Good morning, Miss Smart, I thought you’d like a coffee?”

“Thank you, Leanne.”

“Not at all, Mrs McPherson suggests joining her for breakfast at half-past seven.”

“Thank you.”

What Tammy thought, but didn't say, was that a suggestion from Elsie would be regarded as a command if it had come from anyone else. Tammy washed hurriedly, her face still bore small traces of the theatre warpaint from the previous evening. She managed a few sips of her coffee but headed downstairs to find Elsie with the coffee mug in her hand, some habits die hard.

“Good morning, Tammy.”

“Mornin’ Elsie.”

“My my, do you need elocution lessons young lady?”

“No, maybe just a back massage.”

“Pardon? Never mind, please try to use the Queen’s English.”

Tammy thought of several retorts but kept them to herself. “Naturellement.”

That was the end of that conversation. Their breakfast was being taken in the side room adjacent to the kitchen. Their toast arrived, as well as a fresh pot of coffee, and a jug of orange juice.

“Tammy, I thought we could have a girls' day out.”

“Who? Me, Angela, ....?”

“No, Angela’s needed elsewhere, you, me, Cathy, Andrea and Alison?”

“Where to?”

“Just into town, I’ve booked a table for lunch so we can catch up. If we get any shopping done it’ll be a bonus. Sarah's aware that you're busy today.”

"Please remember that I must be down at the theatre by two for the matinée performance."

"Don't worry, that's been considered. Now, finish your breakfast then get upstairs, I want you ready by nine."

Tammy took a refreshing shower and started to dress. If she was expected to try clothes on, then a skirt would be useful, then again it was probably sub-zero so jeans were de rigueur.

Choosing the correct jeans and top took time, the correct lingerie more time, the appropriate coat, scarf and boots even longer. Then she had to decide which bag to use.

She sent her co-star, Tanya, a text to ask if she was okay. Tanya had been hurt when pulled from the stage during the opening performance by George Small, estranged father of Angela Small. George was, hopefully, still in a cell awaiting an appointment with a magistrate. His original target had been Tammy but George had misidentified her as both of the lead actresses were in character, speaking in a Puerto Rican accent.

A reply came quickly,

Not too bad, just a few bruises, see you at the theatre later

Tammy arrived in the entrance hall to find Elsie tapping her foot. Tammy knew it was alright to be late for a man, but did the same rule apply to another woman?

"If you think you will be accompanying me in jeans, young lady, then you are mistaken. Go back to your room and put on a skirt, now!"

Tammy was back a few minutes later. She'd seen an appropriate mid-calf length woollen skirt during her first search through the wardrobe but had dismissed the idea; clearly that was the wrong decision. She changed her footwear for knee high boots.

Not a word was said as Elsie made for the Range Rover that was out front, with Tammy scurrying behind, the estate's gamekeeper was behind the wheel. The wind was blowing hard, making driving conditions less than ideal, but Tammy felt safe all the way into town. Their driver was to be trusted, she decided.

They pulled up directly outside the Castletown Hotel.

"Thank you, Jonathan, I'll call when I need you."

"Yes Ma'am."

Elsie had reserved a booth at the rear of the lounge and led her charge directly there, was clearly not just a lunchtime meet-up. They were giving their drink orders to a waitress when Cathy and the sisters arrived. Alison and Andrea had stayed the night with Cathy and David, having planned to surprise Tammy with their visit.

The five kissed before sitting down. The waitress stood there as the gossiping started.

"Ladies!"

Elsie certainly had a way of silencing them.

"Please tell the poor girl what you would like to drink, then perhaps she can go?"

Multiple orders for latte and mocha followed. Tammy had noticed that each of them was in a skirt and boots, as she was. This was, it seemed, normal for a Saturday's shopping and gossip. For the past few months Tammy would have been on her way to work at Sarah's Boutique, travelling as Tom.

"So Tammy, how was it?" Cathy had the first question.

"It was fun last night, you know, frightening at first but I was into it quite quickly."

"You do know we were there last night, Tammy?" Alison spoke for both of them.

"You were? I know you promised but .... it wasn't the best opening night ever."

"Maybe not but there was tons of emotion on that stage, you did brilliantly. Have you heard from your co-star?"

"Yes, Tanya seems okay and will be there for today's performances."

"So, would you do it again?" Cathy took over.

Tammy paused before answering, "I think so, but it would depend on too many things."

"Like?"

"Like school and which play it was?"

The subject matter switched.

"You're back at school on Tuesday aren't you?"

"Yes, Andrea, assuming everything goes well on Monday?"

"It will, Tammy," Elsie stated.

“I know you've said that before, but I won't know for certain until I step into my first class.”

"Are you looking forward to it?" Back to Andrea.

"I think so, but it'll be a new experience - that much is unavoidable. Of course, I'm not the only change; Angela is back the same day, and her mum is due to start work as well."

They continued to chat for a few minutes, switching to Cathy's recent honeymoon exploits, when the coffees arrived.

***

Back at the house, Richard was getting organised.

“Angela, we have an appointment in the town.”

“Why?”

“If you're certain about being Angela then we need to make a legal adjustment, otherwise Tim will be going back to school.”

“Oh.”

“Richard, I didn't think you could get a solicitor appointment at the weekend?” Joan was curious.

“Joan, they don't advertise weekend facilities but anything can be achieved if you have a great enough need.”

“Richard, I hope you're not showing off?”

“No, I can see a requirement and I know that right now you can't afford this yourself. If you feel you need to pay me back then wait until you've had every penny from George. I won't be sending you an invoice though.”

“That's far too generous, but thank you. Do you know what's happening with the police?”

“No. Obviously the assault was on Tanya not Angela or Tammy so that restricts what we can find out.”

“Even though he is my husband?”

“Especially as you were separated when he assaulted you.”

“I suppose so, it's just frustrating.”

“Hang in there. By the way, I had a message last night from Sandy, she'll do you at nine on Monday. Apparently the governors want to see you at ten thirty.”

“How does she know? Who arranged it? Never mind.”

“Just assume that everyone knows everything, it's easier on the brain that way. Oh, you could try to blame Elsie but she'll always deny everything. Right, our appointment is in half an hour so we need to get moving. Do you have those papers I asked for?”

“Yes.”

Angela looked confused, she didn't know her Mum had been back to the cottage, or what papers they were talking about. She shrugged and went upstairs for her coat. Richard went to Tammy's room and found the documents he'd need later. Satisfied he returned to the hall and waited there for the ladies.

A few minutes later the three of them headed into town, parking close to the town centre. Their first stop was the offices of Doherty & Hughes. Angela stopped outside and asked her mother what was going on.

“Sorry dear, you need to change your legal name unless you want everyone to refer to you as Tim.”

“Like Tammy did?”

“Exactly,” answered Richard.

Mr Hughes was a small man who plainly didn't like being in the office at the weekend, although it was clear that Richard had persuaded him otherwise. Their business was brief, the document was sworn then signed and counter-signed. Finally copies were made, authenticated by the solicitor, who was additionally irate as his staff normally did the copying.

“Congratulations, as of today, the 13th of December 2014, you are to be known as Angela Theresa Small.” The addition of Theresa, suggested by Angela, was news to Joan and Richard. Under the circumstances they just nodded. Given Angela's age, no parental authority was required.

With that, Mr Hughes ushered them out into the street, locking the door behind him. As they walked towards the Post Office they spied Mr Hughes running for his car, no doubt an important client was waiting, failing that an early lunch at his golf club, after a round maybe?

Angela was given a quick hair and make-up check-over by her mother before being directed to a photo booth in the Post Office. Whilst that was being organised, Richard obtained a copy of the Passport Application form and, with Joan's help, started to complete it. Richard acted as counter-signatory for Angela. He also had a copy of the form that he'd collected for Tammy and had already completed, with Elsie counter-signing as having known her for ages. He had spare photos from her driving licence application so didn't need to take any more today.

Angela had joined the long queue as soon as her photos had been printed, all she held right now was £40 for as many first class stamps as possible. As she neared the front of the queue Richard passed over the two completed and checked forms plus cheques, photos and the other required documents; there was a noticeable groan from further back in the line.

Richard had also paid for express processing for both applications hoping that the passports would be back in one week. Of course, anything could happen now they were in the mail to the Glasgow Passport Office.

With that done, Angela Theresa Small was sent to the hotel for lunch with Tamara Smart and the other girls. Richard and Joan returned to the cottage together; their own lives were increasingly complicated.

***

Meanwhile Cathy, Andrea, Alison and Tammy had been out to look around the shops whilst Elsie did something for herself. They reconvened at midday at their reserved table just before Angela arrived.

"Right," said Elsie, "let's order lunch."

That took most of the next two hours with the gossip shop in full swing. Tammy wouldn't have previously have joined in on a Saturday as she was working but by two in the afternoon she and Angela had another place to be, a taxi took them but it was still two fifteen when they walked in through the stage door.

Iain Brown, the director, was on the warpath, Tammy simply said shrugged then added, "Elsie McPherson!" With that Iain knew he couldn't win but he could still shoo Tammy into the dressing room with little time to chat. Angela escaped up to the gallery and set the lights for the matinée performance. Even though it didn't now seem necessary, there were two police officers on duty at the theatre; one was in the carpark and the other in the foyer. It helped that Iain Brown was the local Chief Inspector.

The show went well, with only one mishap when one of the gang members slipped up during a dance, although most of the audience thought it was a part of the act and the cast didn't let on. Once again there was incredible applause and even more flowers. Tammy and Tanya, her co-star, shared the flowers amongst the supporting cast as soon as they were off the stage.

"Right all of you, very good but watch where your feet go on that ice outside. I need you back at six so you have an hour to spare, but feel free to stay. If anyone wants a sandwich then let me know and I'll do my best to arrange it."

Most of the cast stayed and many had brought a snack with themselves, although one consideration was getting greasy fingers on the costumes. As Tammy and Tanya started the show in a different costume they simply put on a wrap over their underwear.

"How did you feel this morning?"

"I was a little sore where I fell but it doesn't hurt now."

"I'm assuming the police wanted to talk to you, how long did they take?"

"They let mum take me home first so we could have a late snack but I was warned not to shower until the police doctor had taken a look."

"I've met him."

"The officer who turned up said he'd be in the theatre tonight, he only needed fifteen minutes to take my statement."

"Okay, at least we know George Small won't be here tonight."

"Mum seems to know alot more than she's told me, but was there some trouble in England too?"

"Yes, Joan Small was hurt by him and ended up in hospital."

Some of the other female cast were now sat too close to have a private chat so they turned the conversation to matters concerning Christmas and the New Year.

"What's your plans, Tammy?"

"I don't know, I've never been up here once the school closes and don't normally get back until after Hogmanay."

"You'll have to join us on New Year's Eve."

"I'll have to check what Elsie's planning, it's bound to be complex!"

It didn't seem that long before Sarah was helping the girls into their costumes and Joanne was sorting out the stage paint.

Maybe it was that news of the performance was getting around, or that more alcohol was being consumed by the audience, the applause was the loudest yet. Tanya had an extra loud roar from the audience tonight, no doubt the gossip system was talking about the previous evening, not least in her mum's hairdressing salon.

Almost everyone made it home without incident that evening, except for two drivers who hadn't reckoned on police being around the theatre. "Just blow into this, Sir."

Part Two     "Ups & Downs"

 
 
Sunday 14th December
 

Richard decided that Sunday would be spent catching up with paperwork, given that very few people would be phoning or emailing himself and Tammy. One task was, however, outstanding and urgent.

"Tammy, you need to write out your Christmas cards."

"I don't have any cards."

"Elsie has some McPherson cards you can use, forty should be enough."

"What about my name change?"

"Write a small summary, no bigger than A5, then print a copy for each card."

"What about a card for mum?"

"I don't know which hotel she's in and she's not emailed me."

"Okay, I'll write one but I won't put a summary in it, no point!"

"Fair enough."

"I'll be in my room."

Tammy sat at her laptop and just stared at the screen for a while. How could she explain all that had happened to her, and why, in just a few words. This was more difficult as some of the contacts were distant family, some were family friends and others were corporate friends that Tom had met whilst working with his father.

She also knew that many would not accept her, but she was unlikely to encounter them in the near future so their acceptance, or otherwise, didn't matter. Of course, she knew that didn't sound right either.

In the end she decided the idea of a letter was too fraught with issues, if she could ever write it. She'd noticed that there were two packs of cards already on her desk. She therefore simply signed one pack in a flowery style for those that were to be posted.

Then the laborious task of finding addresses for people she'd probably only met once or twice.

Next she compiled a list of those friends locally to whom she should send a card. Signing simply as 'Tammy' she went through a long list of everyone who befriended Tammy, given advice or provided support then discovered she'd run out of cards, something to be corrected later.

One task was to order a box of business cards for herself, she could hardly use Tom's any more. The details needed were simple so didn't take long online, she also opted for express delivery. Finally she pulled out her coursework but noted very little needed to be done.

Dinner was held at midday so Tammy could be at the theatre at two for the matinee show, remaining for the evening and final performance. As with the previous evening the applause was raucous but it appeared alcohol sales were down given the two foolhardy drivers the night before.

There were even more flowers this time but Tammy and Tanya kept a bunch or two for their homes as well as distributing them amongst the cast and supporting crew; that way even Angela had gone home, to the cottage, with a bunch. There were also presentations to the lead actors by the Mayor of Thurso of book tokens, of course the girls accepted them thankfully although Tammy passed hers to Tanya soon after.

"You shouldn't."

"I don't need them, you and Debbie can use them as a thank you for helping me and staying a friend."

"Don't be silly!"

"Girls, come on! You need to be cleaned up and changed in fifteen minutes!"

"Yes Mistress Joanne!" In stereo of course - they'd practiced!

Back at home, the McPherson home, Tammy relaxed and took a shower before putting on a new onesie. Elsie was not impressed.

"What are you wearing one of those babygrows for?"

"It's comfortable and I'm turning in very soon, just as soon as my hair's dry."

"I suggest you go straight back to your room and change if you want to come back down."

Why was Elsie grumpy? Tammy decided to head for the kitchen to make a coffee but Leanne was just coming out. Tammy mouthed the necessary words then headed for the stairs.

"Good night Elsie."

"Good night, Tammy."

 
 
Monday 15th December
 

Angela caught up with Tammy in the sixth form common room just before lunch. It had been a few weeks since Tammy had stood here, as well as the first time since Tom had become Tamara.

The room itself was equally different this Monday morning. In the corner was a small Christmas tree, barely as tall as Tammy, covered in baubles. There were no lights, this was considered to be a fire risk by an overzealous Health & Safety brigade. Streamers and other decorations were allowed, however, giving the room a lukewarm seasonal feeling.

Angela walked in the room and stood as she admired the scene.

“Any problems?”

“Not really, Tammy, I had a few strange looks as I walked through the school, it took some of the neanderthals a few seconds to cotton on to who I was, or used to be.”

Tammy giggled. “Many of those neanderthals paid good money for their grades!”

“Miss Smart, Miss Small, the Headmaster is ready to see you now. Given that you’re a prefect now, I’d expect more respect for your fellow students, Miss Smart.” Mr Thompson actually agreed with Tammy, but couldn’t tell her. He'd also confirmed that she was remaining at the school without realising the error.

“Of course, Sir, sorry.”

“Accepted, now scoot!”

The girls made their way to the Head’s office on the ground floor in as lady-like a manner as they could manage, trying to hide their anticipation. They’d not attended any classes as yet today as officially they were not yet back at school. Rules are rules.

“Miss Small, Miss Smart, the Head is expecting you, go straight in.” Often it appeared as though the Head’s secretary, Mrs Adams, actually ran the school. She certainly knew everything the staff did, usually before they knew themselves.

The Headmaster, Mr McIntosh, had his office on the ground floor, in keeping with the rest of the 100 year old building it was oak panelled with a distinct odour of seasoned wood. Tammy had met him several times informally at the McPhersons's house but this felt very different.

The Head was sitting behind his solid oak desk, Harry Davison, Chairman of the Governing Body, sat to one side, a cup of coffee balancing precariously on one corner of the desk. Tammy and Angela were directed to two seats in front of the desk; there was no coffee table and easy chair cosiness about this meeting, indeed there was no coffee offered. The grandfather clock in the corner was striking eleven.

“Miss Smart, Miss Small, thank you for being so prompt. As you will know the Governors met this morning to discuss your circumstances — amongst other school business.” He paused.

Tammy and Angela weren’t entirely certain what to expect at this juncture. It was well known that several of the governors did not approve of Tamara Smart nor of Elsie McPherson’s campaign on her behalf. They actually had disgust for Angela. However, it went deeper than that. It was known before the meeting that Angela’s father, George Small, had been in recent contact with several of the governors and had spread his personal venom around, including an allegation of a vendetta against him.

The Head continued, “I’d like to officially reassure you both that you are able to remain at St Andrew’s in order to complete your exams next year. I’ll be honest with you, however, several of the parent governors demanded your expulsions for bringing this institution and its staff into disrepute.”

Harry Davison raised his hand before Tammy or Angela could respond.

“I can’t go into specifics but I have accepted the resignations of two governors while a third is considering his future with the school. Mr Small was a teacher governor and has already been replaced. Plainly I don’t like losing governors so the vacancies must be filled quickly, I would certainly appreciate names before Christmas.”

He looked directly at Tammy as he said the last sentence. The meaning was not lost on her.

The Headmaster agreed, “Quite. I’ll make certain the boys, and girls—erm female students—know that two parent governor vacancies have arisen. It will also go out in the Christmas Newsletter. Now, on to logistics.”

He spent another ten minutes explaining what facilities would be available to Tammy and Angela as well as any minor changes to their class schedule or tutors. Finally he mentioned Yvonne Stewart.

“As you may know we have employed Miss Stewart as a Deputy Head and she will take her post in January. I have also asked Miss Stewart to look after the academic interests of the female students, I’ll schedule a meeting for you with her after Christmas. Any questions?”

“No, Sir,” in stereo of course.

“You have no classes scheduled for today so I’d suggest you re-acquaint yourselves with the rest of the sixth form. Miss Smart you should arrange to meet the rest of the prefects as soon as possible.”

“Yes, Sir.”

They two girls were dismissed and headed past Mrs Adams who was waiting expectantly for them.

“Miss Smart, Miss Small, your transport is here.”

“Thank you Mrs Adams, but I’m not sure what you mean?” Angela was confused.

“That your transport is outside, you are excused school for the rest of the day.”

“How did you know?”

“Know that you didn’t have lessons this afternoon? Or that you wouldn’t need lunch in the refectory?”

“Either? We need to get our coats and bags from the common room.”

“I’ve dealt with that, they’re already in the car. It’s cold out there so hurry.”

Tammy was smiling, she knew what was happening but didn't want to frighten Angela.

Tammy’s father, Richard, was waiting for her in the warm Land Rover. “Come on girls, we have appointments in town.” Angela’s mum, Joan, occupied the front passenger seat, so Tammy and Angela slid on to the rear seat, gathering their skirts as they did.

It had been Tammy’s suggestion that they should wear full length skirts for their first few days back at school to emphasis their femininity, it would also make skirt-flipping by sexually-frustrated schoolboys difficult. Coupled with a blouse and short cardigan they had achieved the right effect. Of course car seats were not ideal for two cold skirted girls in a hurry.

“Mum,” Angela said, “I thought you had business at the school this morning?”

“I did, the Governors agreed to create the post of female welfare officer for me. I start tomorrow. Just don't expect any special treatment. They've also told me they will make some improvements at the cottage over the next few weeks, quite what those are I don't know yet.”

First stop was Sandy's hairdressing salon. Sandy noticed as soon as they came through the door, Cathy was in the chair.

"Hi girls."

"Hi Sandy, Cathy."

"Go straight through, Joanne's waiting for you."

"Good morning, ready for the torture chamber?"

Tammy played along. "Sure Joanne, do your worst!"

"What do you mean, 'torture chamber'? What's that table for?"

"Your first waxing. Can you strip down to your knickers and bra please then lay down on the table."

"No!"

"Keep your voice down unless you fancy a load of attention? This is nothing different to what Tammy had done a few weeks ago. Look, if you are going to wear a sleeveless frock then you at least need your arms done but I need to check your legs too, oh and your pits and maybe we'll go for the Brazilian."

"What's a Brazilian? A drink?"

"No, don't worry about it."

Tammy had explained that little waxing scheme previously but it had plainly not registered. Somehow Joanne made Angela relax and was able to start on her arms without too much trouble.

"Now get that skirt and those tights off."

"But ...."

"Angela, as I said to Tammy the first time, you've got nothing I haven't seen before plus I don't gossip, unlike one or two out there." She thumbed towards the main salon.

Angela decided that a half leg would be sufficient once Joanne offered the compromise so was finished relatively quickly. It was now midday so Angela was asked to join her mum in the Castletown Hotel but was not up for walking on her own yet, so waited instead. Tammy in the meantime had ditched most of her clothes and was up on the table before Angela had her tights back on.

"This won't take long, Tammy."

It didn't but Tammy was now fifteen minutes late for her hair appointment. Cathy had already left the premises and Sandy was tapping her feet.

"Sorry Sandy."

"It's not you're fault, it's the midday appointment I arranged as I knew you'd be late. No sign of her, so no special treatment next time, I think her name is Eve."

Tammy had hopped into the chair, her hair was growing nicely and Sandy was able to do a little more with it, aside from a general tidy-up. Angela sat and waited, this must have been one of her first experiences in a women's salon.

It was almost quarter to one when they escaped, Angela not even noticing that Tammy had paid for her waxing. There was also the small matter of repeat appointments, for Tammy these would have to be mainly early Saturdays mornings given that she was back at school and still wanted to work with Sarah. Angela had more flexibility but still had to get into town on a Saturday, something her father had previously forbidden without he or her mother present. Apart from that she did not, at present, fancy travelling down on the school minibus as the only girl.

They walked round to the small hotel where they met with Richard and Joan; lunch was simple and healthy.

At two o’clock they entered the Small’s bank branch. Richard and Tammy had no sway in the operations of this financial institution, one based almost entirely in Scotland. He had already tried to persuade Joan to move their accounts but she had stood firm.

“Richard, thank you for everything you’ve done but Angela and I have to be able to cope on our own, we don’t know what’s around the corner and where we’ll all be next year, or even next week.”

Having said that Joan introduced herself and Angela to the assistant at the enquiry point podium. They went into a side room a minute later.

Whilst Tammy and Richard were waiting they were approached by a twenty something girl wearing the bank’s navy blue uniform.

“Good morning Miss, are you at college locally?”

“No, I finish school next June.”

“Then perhaps I could interest you in one of our student accounts?”

“No that’s alright, I have an account elsewhere.”

“I’m sure we can offer a better deal? Here’s the leaflet, the benefits include a free railcard and very reasonable overdraft rates.”

“Really, I don’t need one.”

“Sir, I think your daughter should at least consider our great product.”

“Tammy, do you have your ID there?”

“Yes, Dad.”

Tammy reached into her bag and took out the card describing her as an employee of another bank, then put it away.

“Oh, I see. Have a good day.” Deflated, she moved onto the next customer who looked lost.

Richard and Tammy just smiled, there had been no point in creating a scene. They had to wait another ten minutes before Joan and her daughter emerged from the office, judging by her face Joan had not had an easy time.

“You’d have thought they would have dealt with something like this before?”

“What happened, Joan?” Richard was concerned.

“The assistant manager was trying to find the correct option in the computer for Angela’s change of name. He kept saying ‘it would have been easier if you had got married, but I don’t suppose you could do that?’."

As the four walked out of the bank Joan was becoming more animated. “I almost lost my temper with him at that point, the ignoramus. In the end he said he had put Angela down as having a Gender Recognisance Certificate, even though she doesn’t — I'm not even sure what that is. 'It was the easiest option' he said, frankly I think he just wanted us out of the door in case the manager asked what he was doing!”

“Angela, did they issue anything?”

“No Tammy, they promised my new debit card would be posted to me, within ten days, but I think that really means two weeks in bank days. It’s already the fifteenth, Christmas is only ten real days away.”

“Do you need to come back here?”

“I hope not, he got me to sign one of those electronic pads and showed me my signature on the screen. I’ve been practising. He also told me to apply for a credit card, now I’m eighteen. As if?”

“Angela, I think you’re very sensible, you don’t need a credit card.”

They made it back to Richard’s car, grateful for the warmth and protection. Angela’s next appointment was with Doctor Hoskins, but that was simply for a blood test and to check her bruises from a few days before. She then had a later appointment at four with Dr Jill Davison, the local shrink. It had only been the previous week that Angela had pushed herself out of a bedroom window.

Neither Joan nor Angela were happy about continuing to see Jill but they hadn't contacted anyone else yet. As there was over an hour before Angela's appointment they all drove back to the Small’s cottage. As they pulled through the school's gates a police car was coming out, it slowed and the officer lowered his window. Richard pulled up alongside.

"Can I help you?"

“Hello Sir, I’m looking for Mrs Small.”

“She’s sat right here, what does this concern?”

“I’d rather discuss that directly with Mrs Small.”

“We’re going to be at the cottage for an hour or so, why don’t you follow us back there?” Richard suggested to the Police Officer.

A minute later they were all piling through the doorway as it started snowing. Angela and Tammy went to the kitchen while their parents sat in the living room with the officer.

Joan grasped Richard’s hand as they stared at the Constable, “what’s happened?”

Part Three     "Legacy"

 
 

*** There are references to suicide throughout the chapter ***
 
 
 
Monday 15th December Continued
 

The police officer spoke slowly and quietly, “Your husband was found in his cell this morning with severe injuries to his wrists. He was taken to the Thurso Infirmary where he was declared deceased. I’m very sorry.”

“How, why?” Despite the divorce and the assaults Joan still felt something for her daughter’s father.

“We don’t know; there will be an inquest, of course. I have been told that you will need to collect the death certificate from the hospital, I'm also informed that a PM has already carried out, unfortunately we've been trying to contact you for several hours, including several visits to your home.”

“Wasn't my authority needed to proceed with the post mortem?”

Richard answered, “possibly not, probably because of the divorce proceedings.”

The officer’s radio beeped, he obviously heard something in his earpiece as he stood up after uttering “Tango Victor received, ETA ten minutes.”

“Madam, Sir, if you’ll excuse me.”

Angela and Tammy returned from the kitchen with a pot of coffee as the front door closed, a blast of cold air entering the room.

Angela put the tray down before she saw her mother’s face.

“Mum, what is it? Oh no!”

“Angela, sit down, you too, Tammy.” That was Richard as Joan was now in floods of tears, having broken with very mixed emotions. Richard took over the proceedings as he gently hugged Joan, still holding her hand.

“Angela, you father died earlier today, we don’t know the circumstances but it looks like he took his own life.”

Angela just stared at him, her face was firstly one of anger then of distress. Tammy put her arm around Angela and pulled her tight, words didn’t seem to matter at that juncture.

Joan continued to hold on to Richard’s hand, as tightly as she could manage. Angela straightened her back, Tammy releasing her from the bear hug. Both Tammy and Richard pulled tissues from a box on the coffee table and passed them to both the widow and her daughter.

It was minutes before another word was spoken.

“Why, why, why—?”

Richard spoke softly, “Joan, we don’t know and we might never know the real answer. Let’s just take this one step at a time. First, we need that certificate, next we phone your solicitor, then we go over to the house and I’ll fax it.”

“Don’t leave me.”

“I won’t, if you don’t want me to. Tammy, can you call Elsie and let her know?”

“Yes, Dad. Angela, could you come into the kitchen with me?”

Tammy picked up the tray with the cold coffee pot and carried it out, Angela in tow. Angela was still visibly shaken, as was to be expected, but was handling it better than her mother. Tammy asked Angela to boil the kettle again, partly because caffeine was needed by everyone and partly because Angela needed a distraction.

“Elsie?”

Tammy explained what she knew, Elsie immediately became business like and tried to take over but Tammy warned her off.

“My Dad’s handling this right now, I don’t think Joan would accept anyone else.”

“Okay. I’ll send one of the groundsman over, he’s in the kitchen having a mug of tea right now. I’ll also ring the school and Dr Hoskins.”

“Right, thanks.”

Tammy took two fresh mugs of coffee into the living room but left hers and Angela’s in the kitchen. Right now their parents needed each-other. Ten minutes later the sound of a diesel Land Rover was heard outside, followed by the horn. Tammy grabbed her coat, then grabbed Angela, before heading out of the door.

Behind them, Joan was still gripping Richard, but she’d stopped crying.

It was snowing harder but not settling so Tammy could worry about Angela and not the road. Their driver—Ben he’d called himself—was obviously an experienced driver, that helped Tammy too, sat in the back of the 4x4.

Angela was quiet—too quiet. Tammy gripped her hand and tried to encourage her to say something, anything.

“Angela, I know you didn’t get on with your Dad but he was your father and I know deep down he cared for you.”

“How could you know that?” Angela spat the words out. At least she was now talking, thought Tammy.

“All fathers care for their children, they just can’t always show it. Mothers can be just the same.”

“So?”

“Look, forget what I just said, if that’s easier. I know you’re bottling it all up and when it comes out it will hurt, real bad. So let it all out now.”

“I don’t have anything to say, and I don’t know why you dragged me out. I want to go home.”

“We have to do this, and I think you need to be there.”

“Why?”

“Trust me, I think they will need a family member.”

“Who will, to do what?”

“To collect the death certificate.”

“No! No! No!”

Their driver looked back at Tammy briefly, as they paused at a junction but Tammy waved him on.

“Angela, we have to do this because of the law, nothing else can happen until we have done it.”

“I won’t.”

“We will.”

“What’s it got to do with you, who put you in charge?”

“No-one, I’m just the one who’s trying to help you.”

“I don’t need any help.”

“I’d like a second opinion on that.”

“You’d what?”

“Never mind. I care about you, I really do, but there are some practicalities here. We need that piece of paper, at least three copies if I remember right.”

Angela released herself from Tammy and folded her arms. She remained like that as Ben drove into the hospital car park and stopped outside the main entrance.

Tammy pulled a reluctant Angela from the back of the vehicle and almost dragged her through the automatic doors, into the warm reception area.

After asking a few questions they were directed to the nurse’s station at the A&E entrance where they were asked to wait for a doctor. They were still waiting fifteen minutes later.

“Hello Tammy, Angela. I was expecting you in Out Patients and just saw you disappear in this direction. what are you doing here?”

“Oh, hi Jill,” Tammy was not enthusiastic. Dr Jill Davison did not need to be a psychologist to sense trouble. She sat next to Tammy. “What’s wrong?”

Angela did not appreciate that question so broke down again. Tammy did what she could to help her kindred spirit but couldn’t stop Angela from crying, her face buried in her hands. Neither of the girls saw a white-coated doctor arrive with the black bordered certificates.

Jill quickly stood to speak to the doctor before taking the death certificates from him. She sat and waited for Angela to wipe her eyes.

“Angela, I’m sorry, I just didn’t know.”

“Jill, it’s okay,” Tammy answered for the girl.

“Tammy, do you need a hand with anything?”

“No, we have it organised, for now.”

“Can I come and see you both a bit later?”

“Sure, we’re at Angela and Joan’s cottage, probably for a few hours more. I just need to get back to the house to fax one of those.” She pointed at the sheets in Jill’s hand.

“Oh, sorry. Hang on, I’ll be back in a mo.”

Dr Davison headed behind the nurses’ station and returned with a large envelope, inserting the certificates for protection.

She handed the envelope to Tammy and shooed her and Angela towards the main entrance. Ben had moved the Land Rover from the ‘Drop Off’ area but had kept the engine running, the lights and sound of the diesel engine made it easy to find. Emotionally drained, they boarded their transport .

Angela was silent all the way back to the cottage. It was gone five when they arrived back, Tammy thanked her driver as she got out of the car, Angela reluctantly followed.

Angela used her key to open the front door, having been prodded by Tammy. Inside, in the living room, they found their parents fast sleep on one of the couches, wrapped around each-other.

Tammy pushed Angela into the kitchen and sat her at the table. She put the kettle on to boil and joined Angela at the table.

“Tammy, tell me this is a dream, right?”

“Angela, I would love to tell you that, but this is real. Nothing is going to change that.”

“I know, but I don’t want to know.”

“Right now you have to believe what is happening, fantasy doesn’t work here.”

“What?”

“I’ll make some coffee.”

“Yes, please.”

A few minutes later they had steaming mugs of coffee. Tammy made a note to buy the Smalls a decent coffee maker, and show them how to use it. She sat back down with Angela and started working through a mental check-list..

First, she checked the fridge, there was enough odds-and-ends to make a stew or something close. She put a pot on the stove and cut up what looked like lamb, before browning it in the pot. Angela was handed a knife, a chopping board and a selection of vegetables.

The remains of the boiled water went into the pot with a stock cube. The veggies followed soon afterwards.

Angela was left peeling some neeps while the pot bubbled gently. Tammy washed her hands thoroughly then picked up the phone.

“Elsie?”

“Yes, Tammy, what have you decided to do?”

Elsie McPherson seemed to know what everyone was going to do, but asked anyway.

“I think we’ll be staying here tonight, but we might need some more bedding.”

“See what’s there and let me know what you need. What else?”

“Dinner’s organised but we’ll need some more milk and a loaf. And a fax machine.”

“Consider that done.”

“You didn’t query the fax.”

“If your father is going to be comforting Joan then he’ll need to handle the solicitor and coroner paperwork, won’t he?”

“That’s what I thought.”

“Angela is excused school for a few days on compassionate grounds but you must attend tomorrow. Your first class is at ten, I have the revised schedule here. Michael will collect you at nine. Have you told your father about the governor vacancy?”

“Not yet.”

“He just needs to apply.”

“Oh.”

“Tell him to call Harry.”

“Will do, we bumped into Jill Davison at the hospital.”

“I know, Harry called to check on you.”

“I can’t do anything in this town——”

“Of course you can, Tammy, just remember that people here care about you.”

“Is that the polite way of saying ‘spying’?”

“Now, now young lady.”

“Sorry, Elsie. It’s been a mad day.”

“I know, you’ll see Michael in about fifteen minutes, I’ve sent Leanne to find you some clothes, she’ll be with Michael when he comes.”

“Thank you.”

“That’s alright, dear.”

Tammy only now turned to see Angela hunched over the table, sobbing quietly. The stew pot was about to boil over so Tammy turned the heat down and gave the pot a stir before putting the cut potatoes in. One-pot cookery was her speciality, whenever her mother had been absent.

She left Angela to her sorrows and checked on Joan and her father. They were still asleep and plainly locked together. Tammy wondered for a second but dismissed the thought.

She was back in the kitchen, finding crockery and cutlery in preparation for the meal when the phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Hi Tammy, it’s Jill. How is everyone?”

Tammy gave her a run down on the sleeping/sobbing situation and said they would all stay at the cottage that night.

“That sounds like a good idea, I’ll pop round in the morning.”

Tammy had just put the phone down when the doorbell rang. She reached the door just ahead of her father, both he and Joan had woken when the phone rang. Leanne carried Tammy’s overnight case into the cottage, handing her a small package.

Michael struggled in with a couple of duvets and pillows, it was plainly very white outside and getting worse by the minute. Leanne wanted to check on everyone but Michael insisted they had to leave.

“Come on, everyone, let’s get through the next few days together,’ Richard said, ‘but, Joan, if you want me and Tammy out of your hair just tell us.”

“No, Richard, please stay.” Joan stood and threw her arms around Richard. “Thank you for being here.” She kissed him on the cheek but kept hold of him, long enough for a second kiss. Their eyes met briefly then they separated.

Joan took control now, feeling more confident. The two bed cottage would be cramped tonight but for one night it didn’t matter.

“Tammy, you use the guest bed in Angela’s room. Richard, your choice the sofa in here or the sofa-bed in my room. I’d have to say it does get cold down here at night.”

“If you don’t mind I’ll accept the second option.”

“I don’t. Girls, can I smell dinner?”

The rest of the evening, post-meal, was spent watching the telly. Tammy didn’t have her laptop and Angela hadn’t received hers from Amazon yet. Tammy would have to chase that, seeing as she’d placed the order. Not that it would have made a great deal of difference, there was no broadband in the cottage—a legacy of George Small.

Part Four     "Probate"

 
 
 
Tuesday 16th December
 
The morning arrived with a variety of mobile phone alarms, all set at different times, followed by the house phone at seven thirty. Joan picked up the handset in the master bedroom.

“Hello?”

“Good morning, Mrs Small, this is Steven McIntosh.”

“Good morning, but you can call me Joan.”

“Right, good morning Joan, this is Steven, is that better?”

“Much better,” she chuckled, “what can I do for you?”

“I’m placing you on compassionate leave until after Hogmanay.”

“What about my contract, my pay?”

“Don’t worry about that, your job is quite safe. You shouldn’t worry about money either, I’ll have the office deal with the lump sum compensation today. You will need to sort out your bank before we can pay it, though.”

“Why?”

“I think Richard can help you there, I think he's the banking expert”

“If you say so.”

“I do. Now, we’re not expecting your daughter today but Miss Smart is due here at nine, I’d be grateful if you could remind her as I'm told she is currently with you.”

“Certainly.”

Joan put the phone down and turned to find Richard just coming back into the room with a cup of tea.

“Steve McIntosh says I should talk to you about the bank, but I don’t know why. He also says the school office is paying compensation, but I don’t understand what he meant.”

“Joan, George would have been a member of the school’s pension scheme. If I remember right they administer it directly from the school. ”

“But what’s this about the bank?”

“We have to tell the bank about George and show them a copy of the Death Certificate, they will automatically freeze the bank account until after the estate is settled.”

“Oh. What am I to do?”

“Write me out a letter of authority and phone that solicitor in town.”

“Then what?”

“Leave that to me, please trust me.”

“I do.”

“Didn’t you mean ‘I will.’?”

“I know what I meant.”

“Okay, I have to run Tammy over to the school then I'll go the the house and freshen up. Promise me you and Angela won’t do anything silly while I’m gone?”

“Don’t worry, that sleep has helped me organise my thoughts.”

Tammy was just swallowing her daily birth control pill with OJ whilst trying to eat a few slices of toast, using bread from the freezer, before getting into her father’s car. Too many things at the same time.

So far as Tammy was concerned the rest of the morning was business as usual, albeit in a skirt and low heels. She had a few inquisitive looks from her fellow sixth formers and one enquiry if she was dressed as a girl for a laugh. Unfortunately, the Deputy Head Mr Thomas was directly behind the wit-full oaf and had a quiet word with him. An apology was issued an hour later at morning break.

Richard on the other hand was now shaved, showered and dressed for business. Michael was coming back into the house as Richard was preparing to return to Joan and Angela.

“I’ve just taken Tammy's all-in-one printer and fax over to the cottage. There was also a package for Angela yesterday, but I guess it wasn’t important then. Is there anything else you need before I head over to the college?”

“No, I think that’s all. Thanks, Michael.”

Richard ensured he had his and his daughter's laptop as well as a collection of the relevant leads; he couldn’t be certain the USB lead came with the printer. He's also made certain he remembered a UK mobile internet dongle for portable access. Although the printer would accept wireless printing this was no good without a wireless network.

When Richard pulled up outside the cottage there was another car parked there. Inside he found Jill Davison talking to Joan and Angela, both had clearly been crying and there was a somewhat depleted box of tissues on the table. Jill mouthed “coffee” to Richard who nodded and went into the kitchen to put the kettle on. A few minutes later Jill came in to join him.

“Richard, obviously what I was discussing in there was confidential so I hope you didn’t mind?”

“Not at all, I needed a drink anyway to warm me up.”

“I think everyone does. Joan thinks a lot of you, by the way.”

“So I gathered, but I’m just trying to help her.”

“If you say, you know she’s going to need plenty of support. I was going to suggest she went over to the house with you but that way she might feel crowded so I’ll recommend that Joan and Angela stay here for at least the next few days.”

“I’d go along with that. Elsie can be somewhat overbearing at times, but we'll have a few folk come over each day with supplies.”

Jill nodded agreement. “My Dad thinks that about Elsie, but he'll always deny it, by the way have you spoken to him yet?”

“No, what about?”

“There’s a parent governor vacancy.” Jill was sounding surprised.

“And?” Richard was pouring the boiling water into the cafétière he’d found.

“My father, Elsie and the Head want you to apply for it. Didn’t Tammy tell you?”

“No, we’ve been a bit busy. Anyway, I’m not sure if I want it.”

“Talk with my dad and see what he says.” She wrote Harry Davison's number down on the back of one of her business cards.

“Okay. Can you carry those biscuits into the living room? I’ll bring the coffee.” Richard was not thinking this was a sensible idea.

Joan patted the seat next to her on the sofa when Richard had finished pouring the coffee. He took the hint and sat, only to find his hand being squeezed, both Jill and Angela noticed that.

“Joan, Angela, I’m glad you have Richard and Tammy’s support. If either of you feel you need to speak to me, give me a call on my mobile.”

“Jill, we will.” Joan squeezed Richard’s hand again.

They sipped their coffee in silence, lost in their own thoughts. Joan had released Richard’s hand so he could pick up the cup and a biscuit at the same time, otherwise she was very reluctant to let him go. At eleven Jill departed, giving Richard a chance to unpack the boxes Michael had delivered, apparently just before Jill had arrived.

Richard handed a box to Angela, guessing what it was then unpacked the HP All-in-one. Using his own laptop he created a fax cover sheet and used this to test the printer. Fortunately Michael had thought to include a full pack of paper.

Next he found the phone socket and ran the lead so he could use the fax. He checked that Jill had written a letter of authority and scanned this, along with the death certificate. Richard faxed this bundle of pages to Joan’s Thurso solicitor, then to the English solicitor who had been handling her divorce and assault.

Faxes and emails also went to the school office and Joan’s bank. Using the phone, for a change, he called Thurso’s main funeral directors and asked them to start making arrangements. Shortly afterwards, the coroner’s office called Joan. She was too distressed to deal with anyone but close friends so handed the call to Richard.

“Mr Smart, are you a relation?”

“No, a close friend of the family.”

“Then I’m afraid I have to speak to Mrs Small.”

“What’s your fax number?”

“Why?”

“I am going to fax something over to you, what’s your fax number please?”

The number was read out then Richard rang off. Using the laptop he then sent the authorisation letter to the Coroner’s Office. They called back a few minutes later.

“Mr Smart, I now see that you have Mrs Small’s permission.”

“Yes, but perhaps you could have asked that first?”

“I’m afraid we have enough problems with unauthorised calls, including until recently a local journalist.”

“I can imagine.” Richard could indeed guess, having arranged for the editor and chief reporter of the local paper to be relocated.

Richard was told that the inquest had been opened and postponed. It probably wouldn’t now be heard until January. In the meantime the body of George Small had been released so funeral arrangements could be made. Richard made notes of what he was being told and recorded the name of the Coroner’s office staff member. He’d not long put the phone down when it rang again, this time solicitor Kelly Masters was calling.

“Mr Smart, many thanks for the fax. Does Mrs Small want me to handle the probate?”

“I think so, she has a solicitor in Milton Keynes but we’re talking Scottish law so I suggested we engage yourself.”

“That’s very sensible. If you could email or fax me the details of her English solicitor that would be useful. Do you know where the will might happen to be, just now?”

“No, hold on.”

Richard asked Joan who just shrugged. George had handled every aspect of the family’s life which meant that Joan had long stopped paying attention to anything that looked official. Richard promised to get back to her.

“Would you happen to know who the executor might be?”

“No, sorry.”

“Nae problem. We'll deal with that later.”

Richard then rang Joan’s bank. They insisted on talking to her before Richard was accepted.

“Of course, we’ve frozen the accounts.”

“Does Mrs Small have any accounts in sole name?”

“No, all joint.”

“What about Miss Small?”

“There’s a Tim listed, but no girl, unless he’s a Timmy or a Tammy?” The guy laughed at his own poor joke.

Richard had sensibly taken the employee’s name before this outburst. Instead of arguing he slammed the phone down and resolved to handle this another way. Firstly, however, he dropped Kelly Masters an email and let her know about his conversation with the bank.

“Joan, do you trust me?”

“Of course.” Joan was just walking back into the living room, Richard’s temporary office, and hadn’t heard the previous phone conversation. Angela, in the meantime was upstairs having a shower.

“The Highland Bank have frozen your accounts until after probate has been dealt with, whilst that probably won’t happen until the inquest is concluded.”

“So what do I do about money?”

“We need to open a new account for you, quickly.”

“Can’t we just talk to the bank?”

“I tried, let me just say that I’ve asked your solicitor to handle them for me.”

“Oh, was it bad?”

“No, just distasteful.”

“Oh?” Joan was confused now but decided not to pursue the issue.

“What I suggest we do is get an account opened at my bank, by pulling a few strings we can have your new debit card here by Thursday although if you want a cheque book that will take longer. The school can then pay your salary into that account, there may even be some of George’s last wages to be paid.”

“The Head mentioned a pension lump sum.”

“Good, that will help but we need to get it invested properly.”

“If you say so.”

“I do, now — d’you trust me?”

“Yes, I do. Absolutely.”

Richard called one of his fellow directors at the bank and explained what was needed. As ever, it’s who you know not what you know — Richard, did prefer the RHIP approach — 'Rank Has Its Privileges' — whenever delicate or difficult issues were being dealt with. These privileges would be almost certainly be lost, or at least diminished, when Richard formally retired a few weeks later.

By the time Angela returned to the living room Richard had finished most of his work. Whilst Tammy’s hair hadn’t been short when she was still Tom, Angela’s father had insisted that Tim always had very short hair when he left the barbers. That meant that Angela's wig would probably be needed for a while yet. Right now it was drying in the bathroom after being washed. Angela was therefore quite self-conscious at that time.

What took Angela’s interest however, was the box that remained unopened. Inside was a shiny pink netbook, and very little else. She plugged it into the wall although she did find that the battery had held some charge, after she'd slotted it on to the underside of the laptop. Booting it up she had to go through the registration procedure, which initially failed when there was no internet connection. Angela hit the ‘remind me later’ button and managed to get the desktop up, then wondered what to do next.

“Mum, can we get broadband now?”

Richard added to the question, “Joan, I know George didn’t approve but Angela does need access to the ’net for her coursework, as indeed you will if you want to get back to your studies.”

“But we can’t afford it, George said it would cost hundreds of pounds, even if it was available all the way up here.”

“It is available, Elsie, the school and Sarah's shop in the town all have access to the internet. So far as the cost is concerned, it isn’t expensive, not now.” Richard could have called George a liar at that point, but what would he have achieved?

“Now, what about lunch?” He changed the subject.

“We don’t have much here, I should have gone shopping yesterday.”

“How about I put an online food order together with Tesco for later today then we get into town for a few bits and pieces?”

“I think so.”

“Mum, may I stay here?”

Richard answered, “Angela, I think it would be best if you came with us, to support your mum.” He really didn’t want to leave Angela on her own right now.

“I s’pose so, hang on — my wig!”

The wig was still damp so the trip into town was delayed whilst the wig was dried, slowly, with a hairdryer, Angela brushed continuously as it dried and was pleased with the look but neither her mother nor Richard had noticed the extra effort.

While Angela was busy Richard got on with some tasks. Firstly the two adults were hunched over Richard’s laptop, in the British Telecom website.

“Joan, I’ve put my personal email address down as a contact for now, we can change it when you get your own email address. Has the school allocated one yet?”

“No, will they?”

“Yes, that reminds me.”

Richard picked up the house phone. “Hello Harry, it’s Richard Smart. I understand you want me to call.”

“Yes Richard, who got to you first, Elsie, my daughter or your daughter?”

“Your daughter, but it looks like it could have been any of the females around here!”

“Yes; is your daughter always that slack at passing on messages?”

“Not normally. What’s this about the governor’s job?”

“You’ll do it then?”

“Do what?”

“Take the position.”

“Do I have any choice?”

“Not in my book.

“What’s involved?”

“A meeting once a month at the school and the odd subcommittee. You’ll be ideal for the finance group, we’ve already sent you the papers for Wednesday’s meeting.”

“I’m being rail-roaded.”

“Yes.”

“Okay, this is probably a big mistake though.”

“That’s the spirit. See you Wednesday, ten sharp.”

Harry rang off before Richard could argue. With nothing else to do, he shepherded the others into his car. As he started the car Richard received a text on his mobile and smiled. Down town he first went to Joan’s and Angela’s bank. There was very little that could be done with Joan and George’s joint account, that was now in the hands of the solicitor. However, Angela’s account was a different matter.

“Angela, I think you should know that your account had not been changed, they still have you recorded as Tim, regardless of yesterday’s business.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know. But I suggest closing the account.”

“Do you think so?”

“Yes, and that’s not just because I’m a bank director. In fact I won’t even be one of those for much longer.”

“Oh. Mum, what do you think?”

“I trust Richard, but you have to do what you think best.”

“Right.”

Angela walked up to the counter and put her old bank card on the counter.

“I’d like to close this account.”

“Can I ask why?”

“It seems a simple request yesterday couldn’t be dealt with properly, is that enough?”

Angela was trying to be very confident. She had seen a TV documentary a year earlier, where the lead character had marched into a bank demanding their account be closed, so she thought she knew the procedure.

In practice, this bank did not allow the counter staff to close accounts without a manager’s authority. The duty manager that day was the same upstart who’d seen Angela the day before.

“Hello, what’s the problem?”

“You didn’t change the name on my account.”

“There was an issue.”

Part Five     "Going On The Piste"

 
 
 
Tuesday 16th December Continued
 

Angela stood firm. “There isn’t an issue now. You can close the account.”

“I’m sure we can fix this.”

“I doubt it, I’m going along the road to another bank so if you don’t mind I’ll have my £50.03 in cash.”

“I’m afraid we’ll need proof of identity with a recent photo, such as a passport or driving licence. Do you have either of those?”

“No, unfortunately. So, what I'd like to do is to make a withdrawal of £50.02.”

"You can take fifty pounds out using a cashpoint."

"But I can't get the tuppence from an ATM, can I? Please deal with it."

“Certainly.”

Bank clerk nil, Angela Small 1.

Angela signed the slip as Tim Small and handed it to the teller. He processed the request, handing the money and card to Angela; he clearly hadn’t looked at the card.

Angela took the money but left the card. She turned on her heels and walked away, her head held high.

“Miss, you've left your card?”

“Keep it, you’re welcome to the penny too.”

She turned, joined the other two at the entrance and stepped into the street. Following Richard, Joan and Angela walked the few steps along the street and stepped into Richard’s own bank. Mr Doherty was waiting for them, a look of disgust on his face. He’d plainly been told to make himself available.

“Good morning Mr Smart, Mrs Small, Miss Small.” He didn’t mean it.

“Good morning Mr Doherty, I see that you received a call.”

“Yes, and I’m still not sure what it going on.”

“May we use your office?”

Without a further word he turned and opened the security door, plainly unused to being ordered around in his own branch. Once inside the branch manager’s office Richard outlined the problem. He explained that the accounts should already be ‘live’ on the system.

“So what is there for me to do?”

“I would like you to input Mrs Small and Miss Small’s signatures onto their relevant accounts then enable online banking for both.”

“Is that all?”

“No, I’d like you to transfer £1000 from my personal account to Mrs Small to tide her over. I believe Miss Small would like to make a deposit.”

“Cash and cheques can only be handled at the counter, but I’ll process the transfer now.”

“Thank you, could you print off a statement for both accounts so they have a record of the account numbers?”

“Is that all?”

“Yes, many thanks Mr Doherty.”

“That’s alright but I wonder why you requested me and not one of the staff.” He handed over the printouts.

“I didn’t, it was the head of personal banking who made the request.”

“I see, Good day.” He clearly had more important work to do, including buying a Christmas present for his wife.

Richard escorted the small group to the little hotel at the back of the town centre, near the harbour.

“Welcome, welcome. Would you like a table out of the way?”

Frances, the bar manager, always seemed to be able to judge his customers’ needs. Drink orders were taken, Frances leaving the three with a menu each, plus a spare. No-one questioned the extra. Five minutes later Elsie walked in, handing her coat to Frances and giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you Frances, my usual please.”

“Certainly, Madame McPherson.”

Elsie sat down in a flourish and picked up the menu, putting it back down swiftly.

“Good afternoon Richard, Joan, Angela. How are you all today? Terrible business isn’t it.”

Before they could answer Frances returned to take the food orders. Seemingly forgetting Elsie’s questions, or maybe ignoring it deliberately, they made small talk. Joan was becoming more relaxed, perhaps because Richard and, eventually, Elsie were doing their best to stop her dwelling on the previous day’s event.

Lunch over, Elsie took over and suggested to Joan she could do with a bit of pampering.

“But I haven’t got the time.”

“Don’t be silly, Sandy’s expecting us in ten minutes.”

“Richard?”

“Go along, Angela and I will get some bits done. We’ll see you back at the cottage.”

Joan gave him a kiss, holding his hand as she did. Reluctantly she left the hotel, forgetting for a moment to button her coat or put on her gloves. The cold air reminded her quickly.

Richard settled the bill and took Angela back to the High Street, Where he guided her to a sports store and suggested she equip herself.

“But I don’t know what I need, or why. I also can’t afford it.”

“In reverse; don’t worry about the cost, you’re going on holiday and this girl will help you choose.”

“Hello, where is it that you will be going?”

“Salzburg.” Richard answered.

“Skiing?”

“Yes.”

“Come this way, please.”

Angela cringed when she saw the bill, but Richard just entered his PIN without worrying. The girl smiled, her commission from this sale would be very useful. Back in the street Richard carried the kit to his car. He had added a few bits for himself but otherwise this was all Angela’s. The young lady made to get into the car but Richard stopped her.

“We’re not done here, Angela.”

This time they went to the mobile phone shop and organised mobiles for Angela and Joan. Richard made a mental note to pass the numbers onto Tammy later.

“Richard, why are you doing all this?”

“Because you can’t afford it yourself yet.”

“What about the holiday? Mum and I always stay at home at Christmas.” She paused, wondering if she should add ‘and Dad’.

“Angela, you and your mum need a break — a real break. I promise when we get back things will return to normal-ish.”

They walked round to Sandy’s salon as Joan was coming out of the waxing room, her nails already gleaming from earlier treatment Sandy took Angela and put her in the chair.

“What’s going on?”

“Settle down dear, you’ll have permanent worry lines if you’re not careful.” Sandy had a way with words.

“What are you going to do?”

“The works. Elsie, can you arrange a pick-up in a couple of hours?”

“Certainly.”

“Right, here we go. Mr Smart, we don’t need you here, please take Joan home.”

Richard knew not to argue, the women were in command right now. Of course it didn’t matter to him, he had other things to do. Next stop was the sports shop, this time Joan was kitted out. She didn’t argue once.

An hour later they were back at the cottage. Joan was clearing the coffee cups away when the bell rang; looking outside she saw a delivery van. Five minutes later they were loading the fridge, freezer and cupboards.

“Richard, how can I ever repay you, after all I don’t even have any money of my own yet right now and I couldn't spend it anyway.”

“Joan, think of this as a gift. If you prefer then wait until you receive your pay, but I’m not worried. Please don’t think I’m flaunting my money, it’s just that you’ve had a rough time of late and deserve some TLC.”

Joan sat down and pulled Richard with her. She hugged Richard but started crying. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, it’s just that no-one has ever done anything just for me before. Thank you. Thank you.” She released him, but only far enough so she could give Richard a long kiss.

After a few minutes Richard had detached himself and stood, still holding Joan’s hand. “Joan, I’m sorry but I have to get back to the house. Why don’t you come over later for dinner?”

“What about all this food?”

“You can treat me and Tammy tomorrow, if you want.”

“Okay, I’ll drive over at six, oh!.”

“What?”

“There’s the insurances, electric, phone, water and probably loads more to deal with.”

“We’ll sort those out tomorrow, Joan, I’m sure that’ll be soon enough.”

Richard drove to the McPherson house, offloading the winter sports gear. Leanne came out to help, then found somewhere to store them, but Richard had no idea where.

The school minibus brought Tammy home, that had never happened before. She went straight to her room for a shower and fresh clothes. Angela was dropped at the cottage a little later by Elsie who then drove home, satisfied with her and the salon's efforts. Joan hugged Angela as she came through the door then just stared.

“Wow.”

At six, the McPherson, Smart and Small clans, or at least those available, gathered in Elsie’s sitting room. Joan and Angela looked fantastic, they’d both had ‘the works’. Angela, hadn't told her mum until that point that she'd been in with Joanne on Monday lunchtime.

Sandy had targeted Angela’s hair, cutting it into a more feminine style, adding extensions and some blond highlights. Her eyebrows had been thinned and her ears were newly pierced.

Angela now had the option of not wearing the wig but still appearing female. Elsie urged her to leave the wig off, just to try it for now. Sandy also gave Angela a facial then made her face up, while a girl worked on her nails. All told, the effect was amazing. Joan, was still Joan but with a new fresh look, definitely better than before. Angela was a new girl all together.

As a group they headed for dinner, each chatting about their day. Tammy had expected to tell all about her first day at school as a girl, but stayed quiet as Angela gushed. Tammy finally talked to her Dad after the Smalls had gone home and Elsie slipped upstairs.

“What’s going on, Dad?”

“In what way?”

“You know.”

“No I don’t. Now, stop talking in riddles.”

“Are you in love with Joan?”

“That’s a very personal question.”

“So, no denial then?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Dad, answer the question?”

“Look, I like her a lot but it doesn’t go any further than that. She needs support right now and both Elsie and myself are giving her that. Any more questions?”

“No.”

Tammy walked to her room with wonder. A few minutes later she was in bed, fast asleep.
 
 
Wednesday 17th December
 

The following morning Tammy went off to school on the school minibus whilst Richard went into the study. Richard needed to catch up with paperwork that had been left since the previous week. Some of this related to his retirement and some to his divorce. Gerald, his solicitor, had sent a large bundle several days earlier, only now did he feel up to dealing with it.

It seemed that Tara, Richard’s wife, was not contesting the divorce but was prepared to do a deal. She was not, however, happy when she found out about the recent transfer of much of Richard’s shares, stocks and properties into Tammy’s name. Ironically, Tara couldn’t actually do anything since the original transfer, to Tom Smart, predated the divorce by several months, but this didn’t stop her trying to use the issue as a bargaining chip - despite her infidelity.

Neither could Tara understand how her son, Tom, had become her daughter, Tamara. She still blamed Richard and the McPherson household, Elsie in particular. Tara’s unsaid allegation was that Elsie and Richard were in a relationship, an understandable — if very wrong — guess given Richard’s close working relationship with Elsie’s late husband. His solicitor, Gerald, called whilst Richard was considering this.

"Good morning Richard."

"Morning, Gerald. I take it you have some news?"

"Yes, Tara and Alban Berisha were in court yesterday. He was remanded in custody while Tara was bailed until the end of Feb, that's likely to be the committal hearing."

"What date?"

"Monday twenty third of February next year. The charges have been revised too. Tara is now charged with conspiracy to money laundering, conspiracy to the importation and supply of a Class-A substance."

"So there is a drugs charge, after all?"

"Yes, it appears that the police consider the two months they spent together in the apartment sufficient that she must have known."

"That's a strong argument, it also adds weight to the infidelity issue."

"I'd agree. Terry, her solicitor, is quite worried; it's possible that any conviction could result in a heavy fine."

"The divorce settlement?"

"Yes, she could lose everything."

"But keeps her freedom?"

"Quite."

"You know, I'm not vindictive although I have a perfect opportunity to 'put the boot in', as they say. Is there anything we can do?"

"You could modify the divorce settlement so it helps her?"

"Could you talk to Terry about that, I'm open to reasonable suggestion?"

"Will do."

Richard had now received the paperwork from his employer that would end his thirty year banking career at the end of January if he returned the forms within the next week. The terms were generous and included share options, which he couldn’t exercise just yet.

The impact of the recession on the financial sector was huge, banks were being forced to make severe cutbacks. Richard’s retirement would generate a paper saving but in reality would cost a small fortune in pension payments, a reduced lump sum as well as the share options

At first sight the lump sum was less than generous but the bank was mindful of the divorce, Tara might make a claim on as much as 50% of the lump sum, so Richard's employers had made certain they would look after one of their own. The remainder of the actual sum due would be paid into a managed trust fund to cover Tammy's university years plus a provision for her GRS. There was separate provision for sponsorship of one transgendered sixth form student per year at St Andrews for the next 10 years, paid annually from gains on investments.

There was also a sweetener: Richard would be kept on as a consultant in the foreign markets, this would generate a retainer. More usefully, Tammy would remain on the payroll as Richard’s part-time assistant, ensuring her school fees were paid. The final element was Tanya, his PA in London, her employment at the bank would be reduced to two days a week but Richard would employ her for three more. All told, this was a very good deal for everyone except Tara.

Tammy would have to agree her part of this but Richard didn’t foresee any problems. He duly signed everywhere he needed to and put the paperwork aside. Returning to the divorce papers, he re-read his solicitor’s covering letter then signed the forms. At some point he would need to swear the financial statement but that could wait a little longer.

Finally, he rang his PA, and gave her an update, she seemed happy with the arrangement.

“It looks like I’ll be in Scotland for the foreseeable future.”

“What would you like me to do?”

“I think we can dispose of some of the London properties, but best keep the apartment in Docklands so we have somewhere to stay, we'll need parking for the car too. I’ll get Tammy to sign the release papers if you can get started on that.”

“Okay.”

“Can you talk to Gerald about forming a company in the name of Joan Small, oh, and one for Angela Small while you’re about it? I’ll fax you an authorisation for the costs. Tammy needs a company bank account, could you kick off the process?”

“Right.”

“Finally, we’re off to Austria in a few days, so I don’t expect to hear from you before January.”

“Enjoy your trip, I’ll email or fax anything important otherwise I’ll call in the New Year. Bye.”

“Merry Christmas.”

He next phoned Sarah's shop and checked that she wasn't busy. They talked business but this chat was more about promotions and bargains designed to get customers in the door. They spoke for fifteen minutes before she had a customer, her third of the morning.

Richard made it to the sitting room in time for coffee, brought by Thomas, Elsie’s butler. There was a copy of The Telegraph for him, plus a plate of ginger biscuits. The crossword took ten minutes, slightly longer than normal.

Elsie found Richard just after an early lunch.

“I’ve had a call from the Police about John.”

John McPherson was Elsie’s errant son, who most recently had assaulted Tammy in the town centre, followed by an attempt at the theatre.

“What’s the latest?”

“He’s been bailed but is under a curfew, he’s only allowed out between eleven and three and has to sign at Wick Police Station every day at two thirty. He’s lost his flat so is now in a bail hostel in Wick.”

“What a waste.”

“Quite. The magistrates were concerned about his mental health so have asked for reports, in the meantime he has been warned to keep away from all of us.”

"Do we know why he was at the theatre when he was supposed to be remanded?"

"Apparently the magistrates made a procedural error, he had to be released after one night."

"Great. Do you think he can rebuild his life?”

“I don’t know, I really don’t.”

That was the end of that conversation. There had been enough tragedy in such a short period, this was the one issue closest to Elsie.

***

Richard’s meeting at the school was at one, presumably lunch was provided? He still wasn’t convinced this was a good idea but thought it might be a useful distraction.

“Richard, so good of you to accept the position.”

“Harry, I didn’t think I had.”

The Chair of the Governing Body ignored that remark and proceeded to introduce Tammy’s father to the other members of the Finance Sub-Committee. Fortunately the meeting was over in just over two hours, including time for a few sandwiches. One thing was clear, several members of the sub-committee had little grasp of budget control and planning.

Richard decided wait around so he could collect Tammy at three thirty after her last class of the day. He had just managed to find his way back to the office when Tammy appeared, early, heading for the minibus pick-up point.

“How was your day?”

“Pretty quiet, seeing as tomorrow’s the end of year party.”

“Any problems?”

“No, I’ve met with all the prefects. My coursework was surprisingly up to date so it’s been relatively easy.”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Well, there was just one wag, again, but I don’t think there was any malice, just a tongue before brain issue. By the way, did I tell you about the Governor vacancy?”

“No, but I’ve dealt with it anyway.”

Tammy wasn’t sure if her father had accepted or dismissed the offer but did get the impression that she should have said something on Monday, or even Tuesday. It didn't cross her mind to ask why he was in the school, such things just had a habit of happening.

At six they were at the cottage with Joan and Angela. Dinner was simple but well cooked. It also looked as if the cottage had been cleaned, Tammy asked Angela about this.

“Mum was a bit bored so we decided to go through the place. We’ve also bagged up Dad’s clothes to take to one of the charity stores. Mum said it was therapeutic.”

“I haven’t had to do it myself but I can guess it could be.”

“Jill came to see us, just long enough for a coffee. She said we were seeing closure, Mum seemed to understand what she was saying but had a cry anyway.”

“Did you work it out?”

“Yeah, but Jill says I still have some anger towards Dad. I don’t know. I really don’t.”

“Are you coming to the party tomorrow?” Tammy changed the subject.

Angela considered the question before answering. “I’m not sure, how’s the school?”

“Fine, I think they’re over the shock, although some of the lower school stare; most of them never met me as Tom anyway. Any girl would get the same response in an a previously all-male bastion.”

“It doesn’t sound so bad.”

“It isn’t. I hope you’ll be there tomorrow for the party. Remember Angela, it’s just the sixth form not the entire school.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Okay.”

Joan had begun to receive letters from the various people she’d told about George’s death, and some she hadn’t. She’d also had a phone call from the school asking for her new bank account number, they were promising to process salary and pension payments quickly.

Richard told her to leave everything else for the following day.

Part Six     "Schoolgirl Angela"

 
 
 
Thursday 18th December
 

Tammy woke at seven and showered quickly, picking up the phone almost as soon as she was back in her bedroom.

“Good morning, Joan, is Angela there?”

“Hold on.”

“Hi, Tammy.”

“Hi, do you fancy breakfast in school?”

“Why?”

“You have fifteen minutes to wash and dress!”

“You!”

Tammy allowed Angela a few minutes more but had her father drive first to the cottage then onward to the school, arriving just after 7.50. “I'll collect you after the party,” were his words as he left.

Tammy knew that Angela had to get back into school before the end of the year, that way the first day back in the new year would simply seem like a normal day, with no fuss. Angela, however, couldn’t quite see it that way.

“Why am I here? Really?”

“Because you need to be.”

“But Jill said I wasn’t to be back before the new year?”

"If you want to change your mind I'll ask someone to collect you, but Jill doesn’t know you as well as I do."

“That’s true enough, but I’m not completely convinced.”

They walked into the refectory to find the room mostly filled and breakfast well under way, although many of the sixth form students had already finished having been served first. The two girls headed first for the sixth form tables and reserved two seats with their bags. Most of the boys didn’t notice them until the girls went to pick up a tray. The room started to go quiet and then there was a cacophony of whispers.

Angela wanted to crawl into a small hole, but couldn’t see one nearby. Tammy had a better idea, indeed a plan, and spun round to where the staff would be sitting. She caught the eye of the Deputy Head Mr Thompson who just nodded.

“Silence.”

Every eye in the room was now on Tammy, although Angela was convinced she was the target of their interest. From the sixth form table the other prefects now stood and moved towards each of the tables, able to watch every boy in the lower years.

“I feel I need to remind you that this is a refectory, not a talking shop. I and the other prefects will be ensuring that you remember that fact.”

Tammy indicated to Angela to turn and continue collecting their breakfast as if nothing had happened. They made it back to the table a minute later. As they sat there was another minor outburst of whispering from small pockets across the room. The prefects, still observing the urchins moved swiftly for a few choice words with the offenders. The whole process had taken under two minutes yet Tammy's authority had been made clear to the whole school.

In their meeting the previous lunchtime, convened in the common room, Tammy had discussed how to handle this kind of issue with the prefects. The easiest way was to make it a non-issue. Mr Thompson had been briefed on their plan so had not intervened himself.

The prefects were also present in the corridors for the start of lessons today as well as during the break after the first two periods. This was not a new way of keeping discipline but was rarely needed. The staff were grateful for the help they received, as it kept actual discipline issues to a minimum. There was however an air of excitement particularly in the lower years, as the school's Christmas meal for the pupils was that evening. The sixth formers were allowed their own function as many would be supervising the meal and any exuberance later.

None of the sixth formers had classes today but their party still didn’t start until two. This meant there was plenty of time for a coffee and a chat in the common room, at least that’s what Angela was told. In practice, however, many sixth-formers would be using the time to pack their cases once the meeting was concluded.

“Hi, Tammy.”

“Hi John, thanks for your help this morning.”

“It was fun, especially putting those eleven-year-old brats down in front of their mates.”

“What did you say to them?”

“That they would be in the new yellow gingham dress uniform by the end of the day, running around the track. That is if they can find the track under the snow!”

“John, is there really going to be a girl's dress uniform?”

“No Angela, I was making it up,” he smiled, “in case you’d forgotten the school isn’t taking girls below the sixth form yet.”

Tammy laughed at John’s reply but Angela still felt uncomfortable.

“Angela, it really was just a joke. Go and sit down, I’ll get a coffee for us.”

John Hibbert had been Tammy’s main contact at the school after she moved out of the boarding house, when she became Tammy. He had worked since Monday to ensure that the two girls had a respectable reception from the rest of the sixth form. The odd boy who’d questioned the new arrangements had found life uncomfortable for a few days. Tammy didn’t need to know the methods used, just that no-one had been harmed.

In turn, John had been grateful to Tammy — she’d introduced him to Tanya Smith. Their relationship had blossomed during the run up to West Side Story at the town’s theatre where they’d both been in the cast, as had Tammy.

The other sixth formers began to gather in the common room within a few minutes, whilst all had met Tammy the previous day, most hadn’t come across Angela before. Tim Small — Angela’s previous identity — had been a quiet student who rarely used the common room — his father hadn't wanted him to mix with the other boys. So, although Tim — now Angela — had been a sixth former for well over a year, she had probably not been in the room more than ten times previously: understandably, she felt somewhat uncomfortable.

Tammy had stood to greet the new arrivals and remained as such as most took their seats. The last one, James Hunter, closed the heavy wooden door. Their privacy was now assured.

“Thank you, everyone. As you should all know by now Angela Small has returned to the school but won't start lessons until January. Given that the end of year party is this afternoon, I can't see that having a huge impact on her education.”

That comment generated a laugh from the venerable sixth formers.

“Plainly, the news about her father has hit Angela hard so please be understanding. I hope we can also set an example to the lower years by not discussing the matter. Thank you.”

The sixth formers started dispersing a few minutes later, with most welcoming Angela. A few, however, had obvious contempt, this included James Hunter.

“Tom, I mean Tammy, I'm sorry but it's best if I don't say anything to her.” He jabbed his finger in Angela's direction even so he didn't need to. Tammy knew exactly who he meant. “You're okay though.”

James walked away without waiting for a response. Tammy had guessed there would be problems but hoped that her new close friend hadn't heard any of the one-sided exchange. Looking across the room she saw Angela talking to a couple of the more sensible boys.

A phone rang in a corner of the room, John Hibbert answered it quietly and took a short message.

“Angela, can you and Tammy go to the Head's office?”

“Any idea why, John?” Angela was a little unsure.

“No, that was all Mrs Adams said.”

Angela was feeling more secure after talking to many of the sixth formers, fortunately she had missed the snide comments by James and one other. A summons to the Head was not welcome, however, and this showed on her face as she relayed the message to Tammy.

“It's probably nothing. Let's get going before they call again.”

It took a few minutes for them to get down to the office. Mrs Adams, the Head's secretary, was waiting for them but shepherded them into her own office before closing the door.

“What's going on?” Now it was Tammy's turn to be anxious.

“Don't worry dear, it's about tomorrow.” The girls were even more confused now.

“Firstly, all the female staff wear a frock at the school staff party and I'd like you two to join in. Feel free to go over the top, if you know what I mean.”

“Like tinsel and glitter.”

“Yes, but try not to wear anything that'll give the older teachers a coronary.”

“Hmm, no stockings then?”

“That's up to you but make sure your suspenders can't be seen!”

Angela was feeling a little left out of this conversation so kept quiet.

“What's up Angela? Cat got your tongue?”

“Nothing, it's just ....”

“You've nothing to wear? Don't worry about that.”

“Angela, we'll find something for you.”

“We will. Go and collect your coats and bags, we've got some retail therapy to occupy us, I'm allowed a few hours off this time of year for emergency shopping.”

She sent them out of her office with instructions to meet her in the rear car park in ten minutes. Angela was dragged along by Tammy, who was wearing 'sensible' heels this morning. When they reached the cloakroom Tammy took her coat, bag and a pair of boots from her locker, placing her low-heeled sandals in the locker in their place.

Behind her she heard a curse then Angela sobbing. “Why, why?”

In her hand was a typed note. Tammy took it.

“You're not welcome here. Give up, go away and never return.”

It was remarkably polite, perhaps because of the high standard of education the school provided. That at least made Tammy sure it was from a pupil and not from outside the school. She'd ruled out that it would have been a member of the teaching staff — they were either in classes or in a senior masters’ meeting in the conference room. What also crossed her mind was that the note hadn't been there an hour earlier when they'd arrived.

“Don't worry about the cretin. He's plainly got nothing else to do, poor fellow.”

Angela didn't hear Tammy's poor attempt at humour, which was just as well. She had sat on a bench so Tammy sat next to her and wrapped her arm around her friend. Nothing was said, but Angela was handed a tissue to dry her eyes.

She looked up to see John Hibbert, who now had the note in his hand. “We'll sort it out, get going, Mrs Adams sent me to chase you along.”

Tammy helped Angela to her feet then picked up both of their shoulder bags. John, meanwhile, held Angela's coat open. Tammy showed her a small mirror she had recently installed on the inside of her locker door, suggesting Angela fix her face before they finally made their way to the rear car-park.

They found Mrs Adams walking back into the main school building.

“Where have you been?” The question was uttered before Janet Adams had seen their faces. She persuaded them into her car with Angela up front before anything else was said.

Very few words were said in the car, Janet concentrated on the worsening road whilst the girls considered the note, which Tammy had retrieved from John. Janet parked in the town centre and walked to Sarah Bonney's boutique, the girls shuffling behind, not paying much attention. Tammy woke from her thoughts as they reached the doorway. “Oh.”

“Don't dawdle! Get in here and close that door!” Sarah was ever mindful of costs, even though business was certainly up right now. Given recent arguments with the bank this was no time for complacency.

“Right, good morning Janet, Tammy and Angela. This is unexpected, I'll put the kettle on.” Sarah disappeared into the back of the shop, Tammy decided to follow..

“Sarah, I'm sorry I haven't been able to work for the past week or two.”

“I quite understand, but I need you this weekend if you're free.”

“I'll check with Dad, but I think it'll be okay.”

“Right, now what's going on? You're supposed to be in school and Angela's face is awful. Is it her father still?”

“No, someone has decided they don't like her and left a note. She'll get over this, I'll make sure of it.”

“Unfortunately we can expect some hassle, look what happened to you?”

“That's how I've taken it, but I don't think Angela's as strong as me, especially considering .....” She left the last few words hanging.

“So, why aren't you in school?” Janet Adams explained their mission while Sarah poured the coffee and found a packet of biscuits.

By now, Tammy had persuaded Angela out of her coat and sent her to a bigger mirror to redo her makeup properly. This time a hairbrush was also employed. “That looks better,” was the verdict by the other three when she'd finished. That put a wry smile back on her face, which vanished almost as fast as it had appeared.

“Why don't they like me? Am I a freak?”

“No, you're not, but we can't please everybody so don't expect to,” Janet told her firmly. Angela nodded, then reached into her bag and pulled out a tissue, blowing her nose noisily.

“Hmm, we'll have to work on that!” Tammy was a little cruel and received a hard stare in response. The shop descended into laughter after that, the mood lifting just enough so they could get on with the main business.

The four girls spent the next hour searching through Sarah's stock, including a rail hidden at the back of the storeroom.

“I remember these!”

“Yes, Tammy, I bought this stock a year ago but no-one wanted it then, not enough teenage girls in the town, at least not enough shopping in here.”

“I want this one, if I remember it's my size.” She reached over and found the tag, exactly where it had been a year earlier when Tom had been so tempted to try it on. Tammy now had no such problem.

“Come on Angela, I think that one will fit you.”

“I'm not sure.”

“Don't be silly, young lady. It's perfect. One thing's certain though, you'll be the belles of the party.

They would miss lunch at school whilst being in town, especially as appropriate lingerie now had to be purchased, perhaps even shoes and a bag too. Tammy was ready for this but Angela wasn't.

"I can't afford the dress."

"Angela, I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll lend you the dress but you need to tell as many as possible where you found it. If at least five come in and ask, there's no charge."

"What if only four turn up?"

"Then I might ask you for the cleaning charge."

"What would that be?"

"About twenty pounds."

"I can afford that."

"Good, just don't ruin it!"

With the frocks sorted they headed to find suitable lingerie. Tammy decided to be a little daring so bought her first suspender belt, to match her bra and knickers set of course. A few pairs of stockings were added. Angela was having trouble, her dress demanded a strapless bra but in a skin-tone rather than the white she already had.

Janet suggested lunch before they continued. Tammy was going to suggest the usual hotel bar but Janet seemed to be heading towards a small place, Le Bistro, on Traill St. As this was another 'new' location for Angela she tensed up again. Tammy was realising that this was not entirely due to her change of identity but more connected with the closeted life her father had forced on her, in both senses. Now was not the time to raise that.

They had arrived at midday when the restaurant opened and, as they were eating light, didn't stay very long, only an hour. This was just a stop-gap before the sixth form party for Tammy and Angela. They still needed to check shoes to match the dress but Angela simply asked if she could wear the black pumps she already had. Tammy had an idea that Joan might be a size six or seven so would ask when she had a chance.

They arrived back at the school at quarter past two. The pair went up to the sixth form common room, which was now the home to a party, although the music was turned down very low and the boys all had limited conversational skills. Heads turned as the two girls entered the room, this being another opportunity for the boys to be re-acquainted with the former male students.

First, however, John Hibbert brought a sallow-looking James Hunter over.

"Yes, James?" Tammy could guess what this was about.

"I'm sorry."

"I don't think it's me you should be saying sorry to, come here Angela."

"What is it Tammy?"

"James would like to say something."

"Oh."

"I'm sorry, I've said some horrible things."

"Including a note?"

"No, but I know who did."

"Are you going to tell me?"

"I've told John, it's one of the lower years."

"Okay, and I accept your apology."

Angela dragged Tammy across the room to a quiet corner.

"What was that about?" She hissed.

"He said some things to me about you not being welcome here, plainly he was overheard."

"Weren't you going to tell me?"

"I wanted to talk to him first, but John got there before me."

"Oh."

"Look, don't let them see you upset, you can use that emotion when it's really needed. I'll show you where the female staff loo is, the one that we've been told to use, you need to tidy up your face."

"Yes ma'am."

Part Seven     "Staff Party"

 
 
Thursday 18th December continued
 

To say that the Sixth Form party was a damp squib would be an understatement. This was the second time Tammy and Angela, previously as Tommy and Timothy, been entitled to attend it but Tom Smart had only spent five minutes there a year earlier, whilst Tim Small hadn't been permitted to attend by his father.

By three thirty the pair had enough, the main reason for their attendance was to avoid any odd questions or uncomfortable situations in January, when they would be back in classes almost immediately. They had managed to speak to almost half of the sixth form but there were still a few that deliberately avoided, as well as others who were always otherwise occupied.

John had done his best to direct fellow students towards the girls but was also being quizzed on his love life by those who had no confidence to even talk to a girl. Perhaps that would slowly change with Tammy & Angela in the school? The question that remained unanswered was how many of the students, particularly the sixth formers, would be removed from the school by aggrieved parents?

The girls headed down to the main entrance just in time to catch the second school bus that ran into town. First it dropped Angela at the cottage then Tammy at the McPhersons, adding five minutes to the journey for the day students who lived in the town or who needed the station. Later buses would run for those sixth former boarders who were leaving that evening, although most would leave in the morning.

When Tammy arrived home the ball gown was hung in her room, plainly Janet Adams had dropped it off, along with her shoes and lingerie. She picked up the phone and called the cottage.

"Hi Joan, did Janet drop off the dress?"

"Yes, can you tell me what it's about as Angela has gone to take a shower without mentioning anything."

Tammy quickly summarised the arrangements, including Angela's loaned frock.

"I see, so is Sarah's arrangement genuine?"

"I'm certain she won't even charge for the cleaning."

"I think I can understand what's going on. Now, was there a strapless bra with it?."

"Yes, but I'm not convinced it's the right size. Angela may also need shoes."

"I'll check if the bra suits her. So far as the shoes are concerned I'm a six and have some low heeled strappy sandals that would stretch a little."

"Sounds good."

"Now, what time does it all start tomorrow?"

"Oops, I don't know. Let me ring the school and I'll get back to you."

A call to the school again reached Janet Adams, she was able to explain that the lower years could all leave after they saw their form tutors first period, after breakfast and assembly naturally. That would be from 0945 onwards with several large coaches running to Thurso railway station or Wick airport.

The staff would conduct a sweep of the school, looking for boys who didn't want to leave, for whatever reason, plus any stashes of inappropriate substances or material in their rooms. It were those checks that has forced Tom to take Tammy's clothes with him before Tammy took over full time.

This timing meant that the staff party would commence at one o'clock, giving everyone a chance to change if necessary. Tammy passed this onto Joan, promising to contact her with transport arrangements. Next she broke the news about the party to her father.

"Okay, but I've also had a call from Sarah, can you go there in the morning for a few hours, before the party?" Given that Tammy was supposed to have been in school all day she obviously hadn't called Tammy direct.

"The timing is going to be a bit awkward."

"It's just to sort out her new stock that arrived this afternoon, as she can't do that and mind the store. She would like you there at eight if you can make it."

"Okay, I'll send her a text. What about transport?"

"I'll run you into town, we'll sort out a ride back at an appropriate time, do you have any idea?."

"Midday please, then we'll need a car at ten to one, or whatever time Angela's finished getting dressed and putting on make-up."

She rang Joan with the update.

"I've just heard that I've been invited as well."

"Good, now you need something to wear."

"I have a dress in my wardrobe that was apparently too risqué before, if you get my drift, I think that'll do!"

After dinner Tammy explained about the note left for Angela but avoided James Hunter's attitude problem as it had hopefully been dealt with. Neither Richard nor Elsie passed comment, that was one of the problems as they were both now Governors.

 
 
Friday 19th December
 

Tammy was not happy about the early rise but she had now promised Sarah that she would help. She dressed not just for the shop, but also for the sub-zero temperature. She was wearing very little makeup but would take enough in her bag in case she had to mind the shop as well.

After a solo breakfast she was in her father's car by seven forty-five; he would eat when he returned. He pulled over on Olrig Street so Tammy could nip along to Sarah Bonney's Boutique on Grove Lane. She had to tap on the window to attract Sarah's attention as she was in the back sorting out the lighting. Using a few hand signals Tammy was sent to Reid's Bakery, although Sarah was asking specifically for three pastries.

On her return she found Sarah's daughter, Emily, who she'd last seen in late September. A hug was offered and received.

"My, haven't you developed well!"

"Thanks Emily, you look a little wiser yourself."

"And older, but thanks for not mentioning it."

"When did you get here?"

"Into Thurso? At eight last night, although that wasn't certain until four in the afternoon. I can now help mum today and tomorrow, maybe a few days more."

"Girls, can you both tackle the storeroom as the sooner that's done the sooner you can help me out front. I'm opening at eight thirty today because of orders for parties later today. I'll make us a drink."

There were boxes upon boxes of new clothing, some was re-stocking existing lines, some was new. Included in this lot were ten gowns that had been ordered a week or so earlier, an order that would help towards clearing Sarah's overdraft.

They were running out of hanging space in the storeroom so some stock had to go in the front of the shop early on in the proceedings, more than Sarah would normally carry out front. By nine thirty they had finished the job, although Tammy was much more familiar with Sarah's current system. After a refresh of coffee and tea mugs they headed into the shop.

They'd heard a few people in the shop, plus the door opening and closing regularly sending cold air through to the storeroom but weren't expecting the sheer numbers that were crowding in. Of course when the two appeared there were many questions, hugs, kisses and plaudits.

With Emily it had simply been, for many, such a long time since she'd been seen in her mum's boutique so they wanted to catch up with her studies and, naturally, find out about any boyfriends. Tammy of course had recently finished a run of five performances of West Side Story at the Mill Theatre in her role as Anita, to great acclaim. Those who hadn't expressed their delight in the theatre now did, halting any commerce in the shop. Sarah gave it a minute then insisted she started processing the customers, suggesting that Tammy and Emily would be back the following day.

Slowly they worked through the morning, although it was clear Sarah could not close for lunch. Fortunately Emily could run out to the bakery for her, but Tammy declined on the grounds of a party. By eleven thirty the hoard had reduced to a steady flow, then the gentleman who'd ordered the ten gowns arrived. Sarah had processed the full payment when he'd placed the order but now gave him five percent off future orders valid until the end of January. It was a little thank you as well as a way of attracting his business again.

Tammy received a text at 1140 to say her transport was around the corner, although she didn't recognise the phone number. Giving her farewells she left before another interrogation could begin and carefully made her way to the carpark. Thankfully, one of the estate's vehicles, a Range Rover, was parked with the gamekeeper in the driver's seat. It looked as if it had been valeted that morning.

***

Tammy was ready, somehow, at a quarter to one so phoned the cottage to check on their preparations. Joan said she was ready but Angela wasn't, could Tammy get over there now?

She again pressed the gamekeeper into use as her chauffeur and drove over to the cottage. Angela wasn't even in her dress and hadn't done her makeup. Tammy felt she only had one option.

"Your mum and I are leaving now, if you don't want to walk to the school, whenever you're ready, then call the house and ask - just remember what Sarah said about the dress."

Once in the car, with both sat in the back, Joan explained that nothing she could say to Angela could have persuaded her daughter to be ready on time, if at all. Joan really had little option not to attend given that she was now a member of staff, despite her being on compassionate leave.

As they arrived, a late group of boys was leaving. Apparently these were the ones who hadn't known where they were spending Christmas, in some cases not even knowing which country. However, every student had to give contact information to cover the Christmas and New Year period plus a very good explanation if they weren't back on Monday fifth of January at the latest, ready for school the following day.

This had taken some of them, particularly the younger ones, considerable time to organise. It didn't help that many of the younger ones hadn't been entrusted with mobile phones which which to contact parents, it was almost like they'd been abandoned between holidays as an inconvenience.

Janet Adams was at the end of her tether as she had been left to deal with this regular recurring issue - it was the same situation six times a year, regardless the number of time parents, and pupils, were reminded. There was a stack of the school newsletter near the door next to the blank pupil contact forms so Tammy and Joan put a copy in their bags after completing a form for themselves - rules are rules. The sixth formers would have received their newsletter the previous day, probably whilst Tammy and Angela were in the town.

The staff party was in the assembly hall which was festively decorated. Joan was known as she had attended this function with George once or twice but Tammy was still an known to many of the staff. They were both circulating well when Steven McIntosh, the Head, caught up with Tammy.

"This is a staff function."

"Yes Sir, that's probably why it's the first time I've been invited."

"What I mean is that pupils, students, aren't invited."

"I was, Sir, by Janet Adams."

"Oh. Was there a reason?"

"I think it was to bolster the female attendance here and to add a little colour." She did a twirl.

Her father had appeared by her side so the Head walked away without a further word, Tammy wondered if that was the last she'd hear about it.

"Hello Dad, I didn't think you were coming, you said you were busy or something."

"Yes, busy helping putting this together as a Governor, some other responsibility I wasn't told about. Come with me, there's someone I want you to meet."

This 'someone' was the school's new Deputy Head Yvonne Stewart, who was deep in conversation with Joan.

"Ah, Miss Smart, I've heard so much about you."

"Then I'm at a disadvantage Miss Stewart."

"Perhaps we'll keep it that way? Will you excuse me, I need to discuss some matters with Mrs Small."

With that her conversation with Tammy was ended. She looked at her father but he just shrugged.

One of the aspects of this function was to reflect on the previous calendar year, For this, both the English Chaplain and the Scottish Minister attended. They had agreed a prayer and blessing, the readings of which were shared. Then there was something that Tammy had not expected; there was a roll call of those staff and pupils, current and past, who had lost their lives during the year. The last of these was George Small, Joan forced herself away from Yvonne Stewart and sought Richard's support. A polite pause was allowed before the next item, the buffet.

Joan excused herself from the crowd and headed for the female staff restroom, Tammy decided to go with her. There was one lady in there, who neither recognised, so they felt safe from prying eyes.

"Joan, I didn't know they would do that, but it seems to be a school tradition."

"I've ignored it before, or George would get us here deliberately late, that was when I wasn't required to babysit Tim, err, Angela."

"Okay, but it's over and I don't expect anyone is going to want to discuss it. Why don't you get yourself straight and join us in a minute?"

As Tammy walked back towards the hall, Angela arrived. She was on unfamiliar heels and not comfortable. Her make-up was also in need of repair.

"Your mum's in there," she pointed, "please go and see her before you join me in the hall."

Tammy went to graze on the buffet, partaking of a glass of wine, although that generated at least one quizzical look. She noted that the quality of the school's food had improved and was considerably more varied since the kitchen incident. In a previous attempt at cost-saving, the kitchen had been contracted to a single supplier, meaning that ingredients or finished meals were limited to those on the supplier's stock list. The whole supply chain had been brought back in-house and now used local stores and wholesalers where possible.

The result was that the buffet looked spectacular and had obviously tried to avoid the formulaic approach; boring food wins no plaudits. All the munching meant that the noise level in the hall went down. Tammy found her father talking to Harry Davison, chairman of the Governing Body who nodded her a greeting, Tammy was expecting to be told this was a private conversation.

"Please don't think you need to leave, Miss Smart, and my how lovely you look this evening."

"Thank you Sir."

"No, no, tonight Tamara it's Harry as you're in amongst staff, but nowhere else, right?" He laughed.

"Yes, err, Harry."

"I hope I didn't spoil your opening night at the theatre with my little incident?"

"Oh? Which incident?"

"My car decided to go sideways in the carpark, damn ice, and took out a wall. The garage has still got it, I might have it back tomorrow. The police didn't believe me at first either."

"No, I hadn't heard about that, but there was just so much happening."

Joan and Angela approached and Harry now made himself scarce, continuing his circulating. Joan was now looking confident again, whilst Angela was clearly out of her depth. Again this may have been a facet of her upbringing, whereas Tammy, as Tom, had attended corporate functions in several countries when travelling with her father.

Tammy wanted to ask Joan about her encounter with Yvonne Stewart but felt she might want to discuss it, she'd try to speak to her father later when they were alone. By four o'clock many had left, although the event didn't wind up for another hour.

Richard decided to do one more tour of the room before calling it a day. Tammy went a different way around and now found Elsie for the first time, something was up. Now was not the right time to ask, not that Elsie always provided answers or explanations.

Angela had tried to follow Tammy but Joan held her back. A few people, predominately female, had politely commented on Angela's dress and after a few false starts she explained it was from Sarah's Boutique. How many of those would find themselves in the shop in the next few days remained to be seen.

It wasn't long before Tammy and Richard appeared by Joan's side. Angela was back in the toilet, although this time it was purely bladder related. It had taken her nearly an hour to work up the courage to re-enter that room, by which time she was ready to burst.

Tammy had seen a glass of wine in her father's hand so wasn't certain of the transport arrangements but Michael was waiting outside with the Range Rover. After stopping at the cottage to drop the Smalls off they headed back to the house, Tammy immediately went to her room to change out of the dress and clean her face; she elected to leave makeup off.

Given that three of them had eaten at the school, dinner was simple although the portion size was up to the diner. Once that was dealt with Tammy went to her room to shower, check emails and, finally, turn in for the day. A box of new business cards was waiting on her desk, having been delivered that afternoon, Tom's cards had already reached the recycling bin.

Part Eight     "Electric Blue"

 
 
Saturday 20th December
 

Tammy was at Reids' Bakery by eight o'clock the following morning and in Sarah's Boutique a few minutes later. Friday afternoon had seen a few more deliveries but Emily, Sarah's daughter, had dealt with everything. The shop was again opened at half-past eight and the customers started to come in a few minutes later, the morning taking a similar pattern to the previous day. The difference this time was that Sarah had two assistants so no customer had to wait long, hence no lost sales.

The was a lull around ten when they took turns to mind the counter so coffee and pastries could be enjoyed. Sarah spoke to both Tammy and Emily separately:

"I'm thinking of opening tomorrow for a few hours if you're free? I know I wouldn't normally but it seems like there's enough business going around."

"I'm not sure about lunchtime or even how to get down here?"

"If I open the shop from ten until four, Emily can collect you in her car at half-past nine, and drop you back when we close? I'd like you here on Monday too if possible."

"Sounds like a plan but I'll have to check with Dad."

Tammy sent her father a text checking that Sunday was not a problem, a reply came a few minutes later.

Passports have arrived, don't forget we're off to Salzburg on Monday evening. Back on NYE

 

Just you & me?

 

Four of us

 

"Sarah, there's a problem."

"What is it?"

"I'm off to Austria for Christmas, leaving Monday."

"Get yourself down to Sandy, if she can't see you now I'm sure she'll see you on Monday. Then do any holiday shopping you need, you might not be able go into all the shops on tomorrow as it's Sunday."

"Thanks."

This being Saturday morning, it was clear very quickly that Sandy couldn't fit Tammy in at short notice, although the hair stylist suggested she could be there at eight o'clock on Monday morning for Joan, Angela and Tammy. Tammy quickly let her dad know by text.

Next was a trawl around the shops for presents. If Tammy was going to be away over Christmas she at least wanted to leave a gift for those closest to her. She also needed a few more Christmas cards for local delivery.

Tammy spent an hour going around the smaller shops but was running out of cash for the smaller items. Again she opted for the bank counter instead of an ATM. Although Robert was again behind the counter, he didn't query the £100 she asked for, this was thankfully considerate, given the incident and argument two weeks earlier.

As she walked out of the bank she found Sandy Franklin, the theatre's musical director, and her husband the detective, who'd recently taken her statement.

"Hi Tammy."

"Hi Sandy, I'm sorry but your husband never told me his name."

"I get told that alot, it's Benjamin, or just Ben."

"Okay, good morning Ben!"

"Hi Miss Smart, Tammy."

"We are off duty aren't we?"

That generated a laugh.

"Hopefully, but I'm still on call. Seriously, Tammy, keep hold of your bag as there's one or two unwelcome visitors in town this morning."

"Thanks, Ben, that's probably one reason why I didn't use the hole in the wall for my cash."

"And I can guess the other."

"Yes, exactly; I'm going to find a coffee and somewhere to warm up, will you join me?"

They hurried around to the Castletown Hotel where Frances found a table for them, he clearly knew the Franklins as well. Coffee orders were taken.

"Sandy, I'm not interested in numbers but how well did the show do?"

"It was our best ever, apart from the pantomimes in January each year. We haven't pushed the musicals very much but it defintely worked and we want to try again."

"I enjoyed it, what do you think Ben?"

"I only caught half of Sunday evening's show because of overtime at work, but enjoyed what I saw."

"That's a shame."

"I'm used to that happening, unfortunately."

"As you missed most of the show, is there anything you can do?"

"I'll make sure I get a copy of the video when it's finished being edited."

"Video?"

Sandy Franklin answered. "Yes, there were two cameras for most of the performances, didn't you see them?"

"No, but I hope Friday night's attack won't be included."

"Jill suggested we didn't use any of Friday's show in the finished video."

"Good, does Tanya know about the video?"

"Yes, as do all the cast. I thought you'd been told."

Frances delivered three coffees then retreated.

"I didn't know, when was I supposed to have been told?" asked Tammy.

"Iain told everyone before one of the dress rehearsals."

"I was in London for several of those."

"Oh, we had to get consent from everyone - and their parents where necessary."

"I'm eighteen so don't need my father's agreement but I'd like to see the consent form and run it past my solicitor."

"Would you refuse to sign?"

"Did I say that? However, without my consent it can't be put out."

"I'll get back to Iain and ask him to be in touch ASAP."

"I'm out of the country all next week."

"Somewhere nice?"

"Salzburg."

"Skiing?"

"Maybe, but now I'm eighteen I can try the aprés-ski for the first time." She giggled and that set off Sandy Franklin, her husband Ben hadn't caught the reference.

"Here's my card, but you know I'm staying at the McPherson's house?"

"Yes, are you going to be back in time for the Hogmanay party?"

"Party? First I've heard of it."

"Elsie has one every year, I've been ther a few times; Ben usually has to work, unfortunately."

"We fly back on New Year's Eve but I don't know what time we're back in Thurso."

"I might see you there then."

Ben had almost finished his coffee but Sandy and Tammy's were almost untouched due to the constant chatter. They paused long enough to sip at their drinks and nibble at the little biscuits. Ben's mobile chose that moment to ring.

"Oh, is he heading towards Thurso?" "I'm on my way."

"Sorry Sandy, Tammy, I have to go as someone has broken bail conditions and is known to be violent."

"John McPherson?"

"You know I couldn't confirm that, don't you?" He winked at Tammy and left.

"Oh shit." Tammy was in an instant angry.

"What is it Tammy?"

"He's the one who assaulted me and who was arrested in the foyer of the theatre on the opening night."

"What are you going to do?"

"I have to ring Dad."

"Do you want me to take you home?"

"If you don't mind, I do have a few bags though!"

"Right, finish your coffee first."

"I'll call Sarah as he might assume I'm there, given it's Saturday."

That call included several anglo-saxon terms, and also meant Sarah had to decide whether to close early, after she'd told her daughter Emily about the incident a fortnight earlier.

Next was a text from Dad,

Coming to get you

Her reply,

Have been offered a lift, on way in a minute

Sarah then sent her a text,

That detective is back, apparently you had coffee with him?

So Sarah was being looked after, Tammy started to feel a little better, she questioned Sandy.

"Where are you parked?"

"In the public carpark behind Olrig Street. I'll go get the car, you stay here, you'll be safe."

Sandy left, although half of her coffee was still in the cup. Frances came over.

"Miss Smart, could I suggest you move further back, nearer the bar and out of sight of the windows? I'll have Mrs Franklin bring the car to the side exit."

"Thank you Frances."

He rustled up some help and they took Tammy's shopping - not allowing her to carry any more than her own shoulder bag - moving everything to beside an emergency exit set into the bar's outer wall. A few minutes later a couple of large, well-muscled gentlemen arrived, all shaking Frances' hands. They were each provided with a juice at no charge.

"Who are they?" Tammy whispered to the barman.

"A couple of the Thurso Shinty team, they help us out with heavy lifting and awkward problems, usefully they live next door."

"Shinty?"

"Similar to hockey."

"Okay." That'll be the local hired help then.

She sat there for a few minutes until there was a toot from outside, Frances went out to Tammy's driver and directed her down the side road. The hired help opened the emergency exit, one went out to check the road was clear whilst one picked up all the baggage. Tammy followed, very aware that this was for her protection.

Her phone beeped

John was here, was scared away, be very careful

Tammy climbed in, all her shopping was now in the back. Sandy wanted to ask a question but there was a load of shouting going on nearby so she put the car in gear and set off.

Ten minutes later they were at the McPherson house, Sandy helped Tammy carry her bags into the hallway, where Thomas took over.

"Come in, I disrupted your coffee so at least have one with me."

"Okay, I doubt if Ben will be home soon."

"Leanne, could we have coffee in the drawing room?"

"Certainly, Miss."

That earned Tammy a look from Sandy Franklin of incredulity. It didn't improve when Thomas returned and immediately offered to take Sandy's and Tammy's coat and scarf. Suitably divested they walked through, Tammy leading.

"Hello Elsie, I guess you know what's happening?"

"Yes, hello Sandy, has Tammy involved you in all this?"

"No Elsie, I just happened to be having a coffee with her when my husband had a call to deal with someone, Tammy put two and two together and came up with the name."

"Unfortunately she was correct. The good news is that John was arrested outside the Castletown Hotel, apparently two of the shinty team happened to be in there."

"Fancy that." Tammy blushed.

"Out with it!"

Tammy recounted what had happened after Sandy went for her car.

"Did you know, young lady, that your personal protection squad were also part-time police officers?"

"No."

"Anyway, I must thank Frances for his quick thinking." She picked up a phone, "Thomas, please call Frances and book us all for dinner tomorrow lunchtime, including the Smalls." She returned the handset.

"Sandy, my thanks as well for offering to bring Tammy back, her father was helping with security here. Will you join us tomorrow?"

"I'm visiting my sister in the morning, both of us if Ben's not working."

Leanne carried their coffee in and the conversation shifted to the Hogmanay celebrations. Of course this would be the first time Tammy had spent Hogmanay, or even Christmas, in Scotland. For very personal reasons however she would be leaving the traditional toast of Scotch Whisky well alone.

Richard returned a little while later, he'd been near the gates to the estate, but Sandy and Tammy hadn't seen him when they arrived.

"Mr Smart, we were telling Tammy earlier that there's a video of the production."

"Please call me Richard. Tammy never said anything about a video, has she given her consent?"

"I see where she gets it from as Tammy said exactly the same thing."

"If she's happy then she'll sign, otherwise she'll run it past me and our solicitor."

"Remind me to never enter into a legal argument with you!"

That had them laughing.

When Sandy had finally left, it was almost lunchtime. Tammy had a question that needed to be asked.

"Elsie, Dad, when I met Yvonne Stewart at the party she was very off-ish, I had the distinct impression she doesn't like me."

"Tammy, that may just be because she was getting to know everybody there. She's been a part of my extended family since her brother, David, was engaged to our Cathy. I happen to know she's a very capable teacher and manager."

"Thanks Elsie, no doubt I'll get to see her in January, if not before."

"I'm sure of it."

By the time lunch was out of the way it was approaching two o'clock so Tammy decided against heading back down to Sarah's shop that afternoon. Instead she finished writing out the Christmas cards she needed for those she now knew in the town, plus wrapping a few trinkets for selective friends.

By the time she was done it had been dark for nearly an hour. She fired up her laptop and checked her emails, one was from Sandy Franklin

Dear Tammy,
 
Thank you for the second coffee, it was needed. I hadn't realised what the trouble was behind us when we were at the hotel, when I told Ben what we'd done he was horrified! Anyway, I'll let Iain know about the consent form. Enjoy your holiday
nbsp;
Sandy

Tammy typed a quick reply, making sure that Sandy's email address was saved. The next one was from John Hibbert.

Hi Tammy,
 
We've arrived in Sherwood Forest, it's a bit silly but mum and dad have booked Centerparcs for a few days, we get to go home in St Albans on Christmas Eve.
 
I'm missing Tanya loads!
 
John

Tammy made a point of talking to Tanya on Sunday or Monday.

After dinner Tammy decided to watch some telly but wasn't impressed. Instead she showered and laid on her bed wearing headphones, listening to a selection of albums from her little music player. Although her previous entity, Tom, had bought most of the music her musical taste hadn't changed. She fell asleep on top of the duvet still wearing the headphones.

 
 
Sunday 21st December
 

Tammy woke, laying firmly under the duvet, her MP3 player and headphones were sat neatly on her desk. She hadn't set an alarm and, if the day went as planned, she would be picked up around nine forty-five to work in Sarah's shop. Right now it was approaching eight so she wrapped a gown around herself and padded downstairs in her fluffy slippers.

"Good morning Tammy."

Yawn. "Mornin' everyone." Yawn.

"Now Tammy, I need you dressed and ready to go at twelve thirty. I will veto your dress if it's inappropriate."

"Elsie, I offered yesterday to help Sarah out today, dad knew."

Richard just shrugged, this was not his argument.

"Dad, you're not helping. I made the promise to Sarah well before Elsie decided on lunch. Why can't I do both?"

"Elsie, can she not meet us there?"

"How serious is this promise?"

"Sarah's daughter, Emily, is collecting me at a quarter to ten and was going to drop me back around half four. There's probably very little storeroom work to do today but Sarah is expecting to be busy. I could take a frock with me, or borrow one from the shop?"

"I'll allow it, but you are to be at the table with us, presentable, before one o'clock. If I'm not satisfied on either score then your lunch is cancelled. Understood?"

"Yes Elsie."

Tammy poured a coffee and a glass of orange juice then left the table.

"Where are you going?"

"To my room, I don't have much of an appetite right now."

Once in her room she drank half the coffee and all of the juice before heading into the shower. Tammy had been taking the contraceptive pill for two and a half weeks and, whilst she wasn't expecting quick results, was checking herself every day. She was also keeping a diary of her emotions, this morning would go down as 'ratty' even though she was sure she'd done nothing wrong.

She spent some time in the shower so was pleasantly surprised to find fresh coffee, juice and hot toast waiting for her. That was dealt with before she tackled her hair. To start she would wear it down with a simple pony but for the lunch she would do something different.

She also took time over her makeup, going for a simple look but making certain she had enough with her for something more adventurous. For her clothes, she went for a strapless bra as she knew there was a strapless cocktail dress in the back of the shop, so long as Sarah hadn't sold it, but for now it was the simple look, a skirt and top. She chose a large bag and slipped her makeup kit as well as a pair of heeled sandals. For now, boots would do.

While she was getting ready Leanne knocked to collect the breakfast bits.

"Would you like another coffee, Miss?"

"No thanks Leanne, I don't want to spend the morning running into the loo."

Tammy finished getting ready then made her way down, it was nearly half past nine. It was only a few minutes later that Emily pulled up outside and tooted. Elsie glared as Tammy dashed out of the door into the freezing air. Emily's little car plainly didn't have aircon and the heater wasn't good enough to clear the windscreen. Tammy was more than a little worried on the way into town that Emily couldn't see where she was going.

Somehow they arrived in the little lane that fronted the shop, which normally had no traffic. In fact it was too narrow for much more than a bicycle, but Emily's car squeezed down there. Tammy also had to squeeze when trying to exit the vehicle by Sarah's Boutique before Emily went off to park. A tap on the window was all that was needed to have the door unlocked.

"Thanks for letting me know yesterday."

"I felt you needed to know straight away as this is where he assaulted me. I was with that detective and his wife when he received the call, I just joined the dots."

"Thanks anyway, I told him that you were somewhere in town and he was able to put my mind at ease."

"His wife ran me back home but we only just left the hotel when John Mc turned up outside."

"So I heard, I had a drink in there after we closed yesterday so Emily drove me home."

"Shall I make some coffee?"

"Yes please."

Tammy went to the kettle and refilled it before switching it on. She talked whilst she worked on the drinks.

"Small problem today, Elsie's called a family lunch at the Castleton to say thanks to Frances for the way he looked after me yesterday."

"Oh, just how many?"

"At least nine. She wanted me to start getting ready almost straight away this morning."

"So what are you doing?"

"There's an electric blue cocktail dress that would make an impact."

"I know the one you're talking about, I don't think we sold it although a few have been interested. You'll need suitable undies."

"Already taken into consideration."

"Electric blue, your makeup is going to have to be special to carry that off."

"I figured you and Emily might be able to help."

There was a tap on the window by Sarah's daughter to confirm her return from parking her car. Sarah unlocked the door but latched it after as she wasn't opening for another ten minutes. The main lights were still out but there was a sign in the window.
 

 
"Tammy, take that dress out the back and check that it fits you, Emily you can help."

The girls were still out the back when Sarah put the lights on and unlocked the street door. It was quiet for almost ten minutes then the ladies started to come in. Sarah had marked down a few end of line items where the loss of a few pounds of profit wouldn't matter when it came to clearing out old stock. She wouldn't start the sale yet but a few reductions would increase footfall in the store, perhaps a few first timers would venture in. Opening on the Sunday was also an innovation.

There was a polite buzz, particularly when Tammy came into the shop wearing the dress.

"Wow!" was one comment, another was "I want one for New Years Eve!".

A check of the lady's size confirmed that the only spare one in the shop wouldn't fit her but Sarah had her laptop and managed to find one for delivery by the following weekend. That prompted a few requests for the same in plum, peach and raspberry. Sarah insisted on deposits for each one, as she didn't want to carry stock she would only order what was needed.

The one Tammy was wearing had been an order from a year earlier but had never been collected. Sarah hadn't taken a deposit that time, nor proper contact details, but had held onto the dress. She'd not put it up for sale, in case the lady returned.

Emily whispered an idea to Tammy and they scampered back to the storeroom. Sarah was still taking orders from an increasing number of customers. Before Tammy changed out of the dress Emily took a photo and posted it onto her facebook page with the address of Sarah's shop and a list of the colours available.

Next she had Tammy strip to her underwear and did the same. Sarah didn't have room out front for everything and full length gowns were included. They both put on a gown, different colours of course. Tammy had brought 3" mules with her so used them to good effect, although she added a little eye liner and evening style makeup. A few minutes later they made their way back into the shop, which was quieter now. Emily startled her mother but Sarah picked up quickly.

"These gowns are ideal for evening functions, they're fully lined and ....."

Emily and Tammy did some turns, noting that some pictures were being taken by the customers. Back in the storeroom Emily used her own phone again to capture the pair of them then they changed into another outfit.

By midday they had shown six outfits between them and the shop was buzzing. Sarah was selling much of the older stock that was stuck out the back, but only because her customers knew about it. She was also taking more orders for the cocktail dresses that had started this.

Emily in the meantime used Sarah's laptop to create a dedicated facebook page for the shop and uploaded all of the photos onto there. Tammy wasn't on social media as it was blocked on the school networks and her previous phone wasn't anything special. Her new phone, however, could do all of this and more; that was a job for later.

The last outfits they wore were gingham frocks that had arrived as a mistake two years earlier. Sarah hadn't been charged for them but equally hadn't been asked for them to be returned either. This created a different atmosphere in the shop as several of the ladies called their partners. Apparently there was a cross-dressing New Years Eve party somewhere in town and several of the male participants were struggling with outfits. Sarah had two dozen of them in adult sizes and mixed colours so flogged them for twenty pounds apiece. That was nearly five hundred quid in free money.

It was a rush for Tammy to be ready in time for the lunch, but by twelve forty-five she was set. Emily offered to walk Tammy round to the hotel, which Sarah immediately insisted upon - "in case they bailed him again!" - and Tammy gratefully accepted.

When she walked into the hotel heads snapped around. Emily had done a magnificent job on Tammy's face, it turned out she was training to be a beautician. They had gone for a sultry look, not entirely suitable for lunch with Elsie but her face was amazing.

Tammy really did have every pair of eyes follow her. Frances had extra staff today but insisted on taking Tammy's coat personally then escorting her to the area reserved for the McPherson party.

"Wow Tammy!"

"Thanks Cathy. Hello everyone," Tammy did a twirl before she sat down, smiling in Elsie's direction, "I'm not late am I?"

That generated a coughing fit by her father who went slightly red, or was he that colour because his daughter just walked in like she was a model or a star. Tammy looked around, David and Michael were also blushing slightly, then she noticed Yvonne Stewart further down the table, her face appeared to show contempt.

Tammy's drink order was taken, she checked down the table and noted a few glasses of wine so opted for the white. That earned another look from further down the table, what was up with that woman? Not Elsie - Yvonne.

Thankfully Tammy had Cathy on one side and Joan on the other so was not short of conversation whilst waiting for the food. Angela was again out of her depth and was on the far side of her mother, next to Michael.

It seemed that Elsie had already ordered Tammy's food but that didn't disappoint, the meal was fabulous from start to finish. The hotel staff looked after the table throughout, they were certain to receive a sizeable tip.

Once the deserts were cleared away, Tammy said that she had to return to the shop.

"Wait there young lady, you've got something to answer for."

Part Nine     "Airport Blues"

 
 
Sunday 21st December Continued
 

The meal was over, everyone was leaving the restaurant and Tammy needed to get back to Sarah's shop. Trouble was, she wasn't certain why she'd been asked, nay told, to wait - was her frock the problem?

"Yes, Elsie?"

"I've been told you drank a whole bottle of wine."

"No, just one glass and a small top up."

"But you were seen with two bottles, you and my daughter, and I know she would be sensible."

"Was this Yvonne by any chance?"

"So what if it were?"

"Well, Cathy and I had a problem with the original bottle after we'd both poured our first glass; it didn't taste right so we asked for a replacement bottle. Our glasses were changed but the original bottle wasn't cleared away until much later. I had one full glass and a few drops that remained after Cathy's last glass. I believe the replacement bottle was brought whilst Yvonne was in the ladies?"

"Mum, I'd have to agree with everything Tammy said, please check with Frances if you need to." Cathy had just returned.

Elsie seemed satisfied but Yvonne Stewart was plainly not, Joan was saying nothing even though she must have seen what happened. Tammy had been told to contact Emily when she was ready to go back to the shop but her father offered to walk her over instead.

"That was a very effective put-down you did just then."

"It needed to be. I'd seen the way Yvonne was looking at me, monitoring me, and I just knew she'd try something. Cathy told me a few things too, in the loo."

"Oh."

"Dad, I told you after the school staff party that something didn't feel right, then there's this lunchtime and Joan is keeping way too quiet."

"We'll talk later. Nice frock, by the way!"

He left Tammy at the shop door then returned to where the vehicles were parked. There were still a few customers in the shop when Tammy returned at three but it was getting dark in this Northern outpost and didn't look as if many more would appear. The ones there were a different group from the morning so hadn't seen the cocktail dress close up, only the images that Emily could provide. Tammy therefore had to be a model again for a few minutes before hurrying to clean up and get changed. Whilst she was out back, Sarah closed the shop and killed the main lights.

"How was lunch, Tammy?"

"Wicked, Emily! I was in complete control of that hotel when I walked in!"

"So I saw, I didn't come straight back here."

"Wait for the best bit, this new Deputy Head Teacher was at the table and I already knew that she didn't like me. Anyway she tries to show me up for drinking a whole bottle of white."

"Was it a decent white?"

"A Pinot Grigio. What's that got to do with it?"

"Well if it's decent wine then you're justified."

"It wasn't that, we had to replace the first bottle so she assumed we'd finished it."

"It can't be that bad. What's her name?"

"Yvonne Stewart."

"Oh!"

"What?"

"She's awful, she doesn't like anyone. Some of the girls at my college were taught by her."

"If she's that bad, how does she get promoted or hired elsewhere?"

"Her existing school was probably more than happy to see her go and would write excellent references."

"Great, now what do I do about her?"

"I'll see if I can get some real dirt on her, think of it as insurance for you."

"Thanks. I'll give you my email address."

Tammy was digging in her bag for a business card when Sarah appeared.

"What are you two talking about?"

"Just stuff, Sarah. What's the verdict on the day?"

"It seems I took orders for three and a half thousand pounds worth of business and direct sales of two thousand. That would make it my best day ever."

"Well done."

"No, well done to you too. Tammy, would you like to take the dress as payment for your help today?"

"Sure, if that's what you want to do."

"Yes, but promise me you'll wear it at Elsie's Hogmanay party."

"I can't promise that but I'm sure it will be worn at a party over the next two weeks."

"That's close enough, now I want to get moving and I'm carrying too much cash for my safety, can we go to the bank and use the drop chute?"

"Sure."

The three headed towards Sarah's bank, Tammy was carrying the cocktail dress in a garment bag. Once they reached the bank Sarah opened the chute and dropped a sealed bank bag containing her takings whilst the two girls stood guard. Tammy was half expecting an incident but it was cold, very cold, and dark. Nobody should be outside very long under those conditions. Five weeks earlier Tom would have been very worried being stood with a dress in his hand out in the street.

"Get moving, I need to get out of the cold!"

Back at the cars, Sarah suggested Emily went back to her house to start dinner and that she would take Tammy back. Sarah's car did have aircon and the windscreen kept clear on the journey up the hill.

Sarah came in with Tammy and sought Richard, Tammy went to her room to wash.

"Thanks for that call a few days ago, I tried some of it today and it worked."

"Great but it might take time to build up sales."

"Today was actually my best ever day with over five thousand taken in sales and orders."

"That's pretty amazing. That couldn't be down to my advice alone."

"No it was your daughter doing an impromptu fashion show, aided and abetted by my own daughter. I sold every dress they modelled, I mean all the stock of those dresses plus a load more that are now on order. The girls put some photos online, you might want to ask Tammy to show them to you."

"This looks like excellent news, you don't have cash and card receipts in the car, do you?"

"No, we used the night safe."

"Good, I know there's a charge for using it but under the circumstances you took the right option."

"I understand you're back from this holiday on New Years Eve?"

"Yes, probably around four."

"I have a sale starting on the second of Jan but I'd like Tammy to help me on the first with the window displays and the repricing."

"You'll have to ask her, I'm afraid, she's independently minded."

"That's a very charitable way of saying she's a free spirit."

"Perhaps."

"Thanks again, I must get home to check if Emily has burnt the salad."

As Sarah left the house, Richard turned to where Elsie was sat across the room then walked over and took a seat next to her.

"Elsie, you just saw how Sarah gushed over Tammy's help today? Why are you being negative towards her?"

"I didn't think I was."

"At lunch you blindly accepted Yvonne's words and then you were shot down in front of your son and daughter."

"She says she was mistaken."

"We both know that Tammy can't handle much more than one glass of wine, let alone a whole bottle, and you could have pointed that out."

"Perhaps."

"Look, I'm concerned about Tammy's return to school, and Angela's of course, in January. A change in senior management in that school is rare judging by what Harry's said plus there are always bedding-in issues. I just don't want Yvonne to take out her frustrations on Tammy and Angela."

"I'm sure there'll be no such problem."

Tammy had walked back into the lounge as Elsie spoke her last sentence so had no idea about the conversation they'd just had.

"Tammy, can you sort out what you want to take with you? Leanne will help you pack."

"Yes, Dad."

The next hour was spent making tough choices. Tammy had a set of luggage available but wanted to be sensible. One concern was that Angela wouldn't have much; Tammy didn't want to be seen to be showing off. She explained her dilemma to Leanne.

"Miss, why don't we pack mostly separates plus a couple of dresses for evening events. I'll take that cocktail dress to the dry cleaners in the morning so it can be back here by ten. I believe your flight from Wick is at one?"

"Dad hadn't told me, I just know we don't have all day."

"I suggest the cases are left open, if anything needs pressing then that can be done in the morning as well. I can finish this off tomorrow when you're back from the hair salon, Miss."

"Thank you, Leanne."

"I believe tea will be ready soon, Miss."

"Thanks."

Leanne left the room so Tammy took the opportunity to check her emails. There was a reminder from Emily to create a facebook account and to let her know what it was called. Tammy would then be allowed to upload to the shop's page. She had completed the first of these tasks when she was called down for tea. This was a light affair which didn't take long to clear.

Tammy excused herself and returned to her laptop. A few minutes later she emailed her username to Emily. That generated some online exchanges and Tammy found herself an admin of Sarah's Boutique, the social media version anyway.

There were already some comments from customers and requests for orders - she'd have to talk to Sarah about that. No, she didn't have any time so she emailed Emily to let her know. Next was the task of setting up social media on her phone, unfortunately she hadn't been warned that this would mean her phone battery would die much quicker!

There was a new email from Tanya, John Hibbert must have told Tanya her email address.

From: Tanya Smith
To: Tammy Smart
Subject: Party!
 
Hi Tammy
 
As John's away I'm a bit bored. Let me know what you're up to
 
Tanya

Tammy emailed back saying she was on facebook, telling Tanya her online identity. A minute later her laptop pinged and the two were connected. That led to Tanya discovering all the photos taken in the shop. Within half an hour there was a community on there that Tammy had never experienced before, although not everyone was friendly.

She had to call a temporary halt when Richard knocked on the door.

"Hi Dad."

"Tammy, I want to let you know about arrangements for tomorrow."

"Does Joan know?"

"Yes I just called her. I know you have these appointments in the morning but that won't be a problem. Our first flight's at one from Wick so we need to be there about midday."

"That won't be difficult."

"I didn't think so, we're heading first to Edinburgh then onward to Brussels. We arrive there around six and will take a hotel for the night by the airport."

"No chance of sight-seeing is there, although I've been to Brussels before."

"No, the next flight is at nine in the morning into Salzburg, with any luck the transfer should deliver us to our hotel about four in the afternoon."

"Sounds good. How's Joan dealing with it?"

"The idea of travel outside the UK if strange to her, the furthest she'd been was a coach trip to Calais through the Channel Tunnel, apparently George thought that was exotic." He laughed then stopped, realising it was an inappropriate comment.

"Anyway, your bags need to be finished and loaded by eleven. We'll use the Range Rover and head to the cottage to collect the Smalls."

"Has Angela been warned to be ready in time?"

"Yes, the threat against her now includes being tied into a large stroller in a baby-grow- or at least a onesie."

"Now I know you're joking!"

"Oh dear, you caught me out, no it was actually a romper suit!"

Now both of them were laughing. Richard remembered his earlier conversation with Elsie, but first made certain Tammy's bedroom door was closed.

"Okay, this is getting serious, Dad?"

"Yes, I should be telling you off for that outburst at lunchtime."

"But you can't because I was right?"

"Yes, you were right, but perhaps the manner in which you put Elsie down wasn't the best, a quiet word might have worked better."

"Dad, you know that Elsie was only the messenger. Her rebuke was heard by most of the table, and the adjacent tables too. I had to deal with that or else leave a tarnish on my name."

"I understand, dear. Apparently Yvonne says she was 'mistaken'."

"And you don't believe it's genuine either?"

"Did I give you that impression?"

"Dad, I can see through you and right now you're as transparent as is possible."

"Look, try not to let Yvonne, nor Elsie, wind you up and don't bite back. Promise?"

"I'll do my best, did you know I'll get mood swings with these pills?"

"Let me know when to lock the knives away."

"Get out!"

Tammy creased up and rolled onto her bed. Richard also had a laugh, he just prayed that his daughter's 'bad days' weren't as bad as his ex wife's. He quietly left the room.

Now she was alone she elected to take a quick shower. Tammy then retrieved a selection of presents from their hiding place, together with a roll of wrapping paper, spending an hour on that task. The finished packages, and a few bags, were stacked in the corner - they would be distributed once she returned from Austria as she'd now run out of time.

 
 
Monday 22nd December
 
Michael wanted to head out of town early to do some Christmas shopping so offered to run Tammy into town for her eight o'clock appointment with Sandy. Joan was driving herself and Angela down separately and arrived a few minutes after Tammy.

Tammy was sent straight into the torture chamber.

"Up on the table, young lady."

"It's not been that long!"

"I understand you're going away?"

"Yes, later today."

"And you're staying in a hotel?"

"Yes, so?"

"And this hotel will have a pool?"

"Oh."

"Up on the table!"

Joanne did some other tidying up whilst Tammy was there but all-in-all she was only in there for just over ten minutes. Tammy was walking slightly awkwardly when she walked back into the main salon, Joanne stood in the doorway and beckoned Joan.

"Why? You had me last week."

"I didn't know about the holiday and hotel with a swimming pool then."

"Do I have a choice?"

"No."

Angela was having her hair washed at this point so was oblivious to the conversation or the way Tammy, gently, sat down. She wasn't sat for long, as Tanya guided Angela over to Sandy, her sister Debbie took Tammy to the nail station.

"You vixen!"

"Who, me?"

"Yes Tammy. I've seen the pictures. You should have let me and Tanya know, we'd have been there like a shot."

"It wasn't planned like that, but we did get a little carried away."

"A little? There hasn't been a fashion show like that in Thurso for a few years. Seriously, you have potential as a model."

"Some of me is artificial."

"Many girls use a little enhancement at times, anyway it won't be long before you have your own set."

"I've not said anything to you, or Tanya, for that matter."

"No, but you might have mentioned it to my sister's boyfriend at some point?"

"Damn."

"Keep your hands still otherwise this will take too long."

Whilst Debbie worked on Tammy's hands they continued talking, with an idea forming in Tammy's head about a fashion show. One of the problems of talking to Debbie was that she knew so many of the local characters, especially the eighteen to twenty-something girls in Thurso and Tammy knew hardly any of them. Local education would have to wait for another time, however, as Tammy was finally ready for Tanya's hair-washing station.

Joan by now had made it out of the torture chamber and appeared to be a little more relaxed, the only issue being that Angela had now entered the room of doom.

Over the next hour or so all three were finished. By then the regular Monday morning clients had started to arrive, as well as some of Sandy's usual staff.

Tammy was wondering how to get back when a Landrover pulled up outside. In the front was Leanne, alongside Jonathon. Tammy gave her farewells and hopped into the back. Her cocktail dress and a couple of other items were in garment bags hung in the back.

Tammy was told to simply take herself in, Leanne carried the clothes up then went to leave.

"I'll be back shortly, Miss, after you've changed."

"I never said .... thank you Leanne. Give me fifteen please."

"Certainly."

***

Somehow, by eleven, a travel-ready Tammy with all her luggage was outside the front of the house. There was a hug from Elsie and a kiss from Michael, who had returned from his shopping trip. Then Johnaton drove Tammy and Richard to collect the Smalls.

Angela was in a mid-calf length skirt again, both Joan and Tammy had suggested it to re-inforce her persona. Tammy had dressed similarly, but had a greater selection in her wardrobe than Angela, or even Joan.

This time, at Wick Airport, Angela behaved like she travelled frequently. Joan hadn't flown from Wick before so relied on the others to guide her. There were no problems at the check-in for their Edinburgh flight, just a query on Tammy's luggage.

"It's only five kilos over."

"That's a fifty pounds surcharge unfortunately, Miss."

She simply handed over the platinum credit card.

"Charge it, I'll get 'Air Miles' points anyway."

That, as it turned out, was the only small matter before they were at the gate ready to walk across to their flight. If Joan was nervous she didn't show it, if Angela was excited then she didn't show that either.

They settled on the flight, which had two by two seating, with the adults one side and the girls on the other. This was a short flight across Scotland which was definitely no-frills. They landed a few minutes behind schedule but this group had two hours to kill, Richard suggested the bar.

"Richard, I don't drink this time of day."

"Joan, it's the only food outlet in the international lounge that I trust."

Their ticketing was end-to-end so they didn't need to go through check-in again, but that didn't stop an over-zealous security guard demanding the group's tickets and passports almost as soon as they'd sat in the bar.

"Why?"

"Because I didn't see you come through security."

"We didn't, we're transfer passengers from Wick."

"I still need to see them."

He did look, but plainly was only doing it because he could, not because he needed to.

"Enjoy your trip, please be aware of an increased security threat level."

He walked off.

Everyone now got down to the serious business of ordering food. Richard warned them that dinner wouldn't happen until around eight that evening and now, around two, was a good time to have something. The drink of choice was coffee, although Joan went for decaff "I've always wanted to try it but ..."

Conversation ground to a halt when their food arrived, all had opted for the extra healthy all-day breakfast so they wouldn't need food again until late, if necessary.

Their flight had appeared on the departures board a few minutes earlier and a gate number was now displayed. They still had half an hour so this was not urgent, and certainly not a good enough reason for indigestion.

With ten minutes to spare they walked to the gate, handing their tickets and passports to the aircrew member. That formality took seconds and they were immediately allowed to walk across the airbridge onto the flight. This time seating was down to prebooking, but Richard had factored it so they were suitably grouped across the central gangway.

In not much more time they had left the terminal and were taxiing across to the runway. Then there was an announcement from the cockpit:

We regret to announce that due to air traffic problems this flight has been cancelled. We will shortly return to the terminal. Please remain seated, the seat-belt sign will remain on until we reach the terminal. Thankyou.

"Dad, I thought air traffic control had backup systems?"

"Yes, primary and secondary backups, plus it's really a national system these days. I wouldn't worry though, I used to get this in the far east regularly."

"Fine."

Tammy relaxed but Angela was getting worried.

"Was that a secret code to say they've found me out?"

"Nice try, Angela, but I've heard better ones than that in B movies."

Angela sat back, she was now genuinely worried. Richard was telling Joan tales of misadventure in international air travel whilst Tammy was playing with facebook on her phone. Suddenly she spotted something.

"Dad, there's a problem."

"What is it?"

"Reports of explosions at two air traffic centres, Fareham, south of London and Maastrict in The Netherlands."

"Those are the two largest in Europe, is the report from a good source?"

"Several, BBC, CNN, and the French press right now."

"Then we'll have to assume it's genuine. We'll find out more back at the terminal."

It took fifteen minutes before they were back in the terminal, confirmation of their flight's cancellation was that their luggage was seen being removed from the hold.

"We're definitely going nowhere fast."

Richard tried at the information desk but this was now swamped and the poor assistant had no further information, as she repeated to every person who reached the front of the queue. Tammy, meantime, had put out a status message that she was stuck at Edinburgh airport and found herself with plenty of 'friend requests' as a result. meanwhile the news stories started to get more detailed.

"Dad, it seems whoever did this took out the power into the centres, including the diesel generators, as well as the fibre comms off the sites."

"So it wasn't random. Any idea of who?"

"Not at the moment. My guess is that a fix isn't going to be quick and definitely not today, maybe not even tomorrow."

"I'd have to agree."

He stepped away to make two calls, one to Elsie and the other to their helicopter firm. If a chopper was to fly as far as Edinburgh it would need full fuel tanks.

Next he headed for the security gate and found the irritating guard from earlier.

"Ah, Mr ..."

"Smart."

"How can I help you?"

"I'd like to speak to the terminal manager. Can you get hold of him for me?"

"Why me?"

"Because all of the other staff are handling the expected passenger queries and none are qualified to answer my question. You however are being left well alone because most travellers wouldn't voluntarily return to a security checkpoint. I guess no-one's being allowed through now either."

"So what is the question, and why should the terminal manager answer it?"

"Very simply, where is the best place for my helicopter to land when it comes to collect my group and our luggage?"

"You are joking?"

"Not one bit, I'm the CEO of RS Helicopters Ltd."

"RS?"

"Richard Smart."

"So when is it due here?"

"I've simply told the pilot to fully fuel for a run here and then back to Thurso. He'll take off as soon as I contact him, I just need to confirm he can have authority to land here." There was a small white lie in Richard's words.

"Can you wait here?"

The guard shuffled off to a telephone and run his finger down a list that was taped to the wall. It was clear the duty manager, whoever that was, didn't initially accept the story but suddenly the guard was walking back over.

"Mr Cooper will be down shortly."

"Thank you."

Richard rejoined the group.

"Okay, you'll have gathered from Tammy and the commotion over by the info desk that something is very wrong. It looks like western Europe has lost most of its air traffic control systems and that problems will last at least until tomorrow, possibly longer, with guaranteed delays when the system is working again. Given that it's the twenty second today, I don't fancy the idea of a flight on Christmas eve."

"Richard, are you suggesting cancelling?"

"Yes, Joan. Unfortunately there's very little we can do right now except go back home."

"How are we getting there?"

"Give me a minute and I'll confirm those arrangements."

Richard stood up and walked towards the man who was heading towards him, smiles on both faces.

"Richard!"

"John!"

"Blimey, my airport and on this ruddy day too!"

"It wasn't my choice either."

"The airport or the day?"

"You choose! Come meet the crowd."

"Guys, this is John Cooper the airport terminal manager. He was my assistant for several years before he got out of being a merchant banker and into airport management. John, this is my daughter Tammy, my good friend Joan and her daughter Angela."

"Pleased to meet you all. Now, Richard, this chopper? Is it the McPherson firm?"

"Yes, Elsie and I own forty percent each and Tammy here owns the remaining twenty percent."

"In trust?"

"No, through a wholly owned company in her name."

"Tammy, do you work with your dad?"

"Only when I'm not at school, I'm waiting to finish my A levels."

"Richard, if it were anyone else I'd say I was being taken for a ride. Now, what do you need?"

"I think we're best off if we stay in the bar. Can the chopper land outside the emergency exit?"

"No, in case we need it for a real emergency in here. There are no planes on the stands so why not in front of the terminal?"

"Okay, can you let the tower know that they'll be here in forty-five?"

"Will do, I take it you had luggage?"

"Yes, it was on the Brussels flight that was scrubbed."

"Right, I'll have that brought round."

"Cheers John. Come up and see us sometime?"

"Sure, now I need to get away before anyone else decides they want to land a private chopper here!"

Part Ten     "A Party invitation"

 
 
Monday 22nd December Continued
 

Richard phoned the pilot, who had actually been airborne as soon as fuelling was completed, to confirm the landing zone had been approved. Somehow all of this had been achieved without attracting much attention from the other travellers.

That changed three quarters of an hour later when the helicopter touched down right in front of the bar. Staff then arrived to escort the 'Smart' group to their aircraft. There were some raised voices in the terminal when a few realised there must have been a 'special arrangement'. Staff simply had one answer, the one given to them by John Cooper, "Mr Smart owns the helicopter, but you can charter it for £3500 for two hours".

Those flying on £50 super-economy tickets sat down and pondered their next move, just a few days before Christmas. There was still no further information for the restoration of anyone's flight.

A few minutes later they were being strapped in. This would have been Joan's second ride but Angela was a helicopter virgin. She was scared and elated in equal quantities, but scared was beginning to be the dominant factor.

Any protest was irrelevant once she was firmly strapped in and the rotor started. Tammy and Richard both donned the headphones that were available in the passenger space so they could hear the pilot's interactions with the Edinburgh Tower. Finally they were airborne and quickly turned to the north, rapidly gaining altitude.

Tammy's last news update before they departed was that the damage to the National Air Traffic Control systems in the UK and Netherlands was being formally treated as a terrorist attack. No group had yet claimed responsibility.

Joan and Angela fell asleep for the flight, despite the background noise. Richard had asked that the pilot exceeded the normal cruising velocity, "just to get us back indoors sooner".

Finally, at six o'clock on Monday night, Richard and Tammy walked back into the house they'd left seven hours earlier. One of the staff offered to run the Smalls back to their cottage, but not before a few issues came up.

"Richard, I appreciate that the holiday is now cancelled, but we hadn't left any fresh food indoors, I even poured the last of the semi-skinned away so I wouldn't return home to find a new lifeform that used to be milk."

"Well, why not have a snack here then take enough milk with you so you can do breakfast in the morning?"

"Thanks. By the way, where's Elsie?"

"I don't know." He called for Thomas, who was moving the returned luggage.

"Sir?"

"Do you know where Mrs McPherson is?"

"I believe you should call her daughter, Sir, she would be the best source. Should I advise the kitchen that you'll be eating?"

"Thank you Thomas, and yes."

Richard went into the study and called Cathy's number. Her husband, David, answered but Cathy was soon on the line.

"Hello Richard, I take it you're calling about mum?"

"Yes, because of the airport problems we've cancelled our trip and returned to the house. I just discovered that she's not here."

"No, she's with me, she had some tests at the hospital and it could turn into bad news so didn't want to be on her own."

Richard wondered silently if it might explain some of her recent grumpiness.

"Well, it looks like we're here for Christmas so can we discuss revising the plans?"

"I was just about to do some tea for mum, David and myself, I can run her back over in an hour if you want to speak to her?"

"Whatever suits you and your mum best? I've just asked the kitchen to rustle up four plates, I could make it seven?"

"I hadn't started preparing anything so give me ten minutes and I'll bring her over."

"Sure." Richard found Thomas again and brought him up-to-date.

He was worried; Richard had lost his business partner, Elsie's husband, some five years earlier. He knew that Elsie had been a bit 'off' for a few days but he was used to that with his, now ex-, wife Tara, he just hadn't guessed there could be a serious medical issue brewing.

Cathy took fifteen minutes to arrive and helped her mum from the car. Again, Richard was concerned, Elsie was usually very fit for a lady in her late sixties and normally very steady on her feet. Fortunately, Tammy and Angela were in Tammy's room unpacking and Joan was reading a newspaper in the lounge so there were no other witnesses.

Richard tried not to say very much to Elsie, she was plainly troubled - physically and mentally - until she was comfortably in her own home. Cathy was still walking with her mother and they suddenly turned to head up the stairs.

"Mum's going to eat in her room, she'll see you in the morning. I'll let the kitchen know."

"Okay Cathy."

There really was no point querying this, he joined Joan in the lounge where they sat quietly until their two daughters returned. The theme of the evening was indeed 'quiet' as they had exhausted most conversational topics during the day's aborted travels.

Cathy came back down as Elsie's meal was delivered and asked Richard to join her in the study.

"As you have guessed, Richard, mum's not well."

"I'd noticed that she's not been herself."

"Yes, she's been waiting for an appointment for tests. She was pleased when you were flying out as her appointment at the hospital was just after lunch."

"What's the tests?"

"This was the third round of blood screening in a week plus today they took several deep biopsies from under her armpits."

"I think I can guess as to what the tests are about. When's the diagnosis due?"

"Not until mid January probably, possibly earlier. She's pretty sore today and may be down for a few more days, it will take her a while to get back to near normal. In the meantime, Christmas will have to be re-arranged."

"What were the existing arrangements?"

"We decided yesterday that mum and Michael would come to us Christmas day so the staff could have the day off. Unfortunately we're not able to accommodate you and Tammy, please don't take that the wrong way."

"Of course not. I agree that the staff should be off on Christmas day, I'll talk to Joan about it."

"Maybe we can all reconvene here on Boxing Day at lunchtime?"

"Sounds like a plan."

Cathy left without seeing the others, who had now started to eat. He decided to leave the Elsie question until the following day, simply telling everyone that she was "tired".

After arranging for a jug of milk, Richard took Joan and Angela home but asked Joan to remain in the car so he could have a few words.

"Elsie's not well."

"I thought something was wrong, is it serious?"

"Potentially, however we need to organise Christmas day as Cathy has told the staff to take the day off."

"That's easy, you and Tammy come to us, bring sleeping bags."

"Are you happy doing that?"

"Of course, considering how much you do to me. How about the two of you come over on Christmas eve and stay until Boxing Day?"

"There will be a party at the house on Boxing Day so you'll have to come over for that. Now, tomorrow is the twenty third and your fridge is empty, we have one heck of a load of shopping to do."

Richard and Joan stepped out of the car and went to the rear to retrieve their airline luggage, noting that Joan's case had a fresh deep scrape right across it, that was something else to deal with tomorrow. Once everything was back in the cottage he asked Joan to come back to him, giving her a kiss.

As the front door was closed, Angela decided to pounce.

"Mum? What is..."

"He's just a friend, right. Anyway he and Tammy are staying over Christmas - starting Christmas Eve. In the morning you are going to clean this cottage from the top down!"

"Oh, mum!"

 
 
Tuesday 23rd December
 

Tanya Smith was on the phone to Tammy not long after eight in the morning.

"I'm so glad you're spending Christmas here."

"My first one, but you realise I should be at Brussels Airport right now?"

"Never mind, Brussels' loss and our gain. I didn't tell you about the party did I?"

"No, but I suppose I wasn't going to be here?"

"Exactly, it's tomorrow evening at Thurso Golf Club."

"Who's invited?"

"It's a ball for under twenty-fives."

"Sounds a bit formal?"

"The dressing up is fun. We do it every year once everyone's back from college, uni or wherever. I organised a ticket for you last night, you owe me fifteen quid."

"Thanks, I think. What about Angela?"

"I get the impression she might not be interested, anyway it was almost sold out and I didn't have her number. She's not on facebook, is she?"

"No, she doesn't have an email address either and isn't used to her mobile yet."

"She needs working on, anyway, I have squeezed you in at four tomorrow for nails and hair."

"How did you know? Oh, never mind."

"Thank me later.

"Will do, bye."

Tammy now looked at the notifications on her phone, which was in desperate need of a recharge. There were several text messages timed the previous night from Tanya along the lines of "call me", "party!" and "Call!! Me!!". She's persistent, that one.

She'd just returned from breakfast when her phone had rung, her father had come from the study and was heading straight back there after his toast. Elsie had appeared briefly but had eaten very little before heading back to her room. Tammy could sense something was very wrong but a glance and a shake of his head from her father warned her off. He was carrying that day's Scotsman newspaper which had a single headline:
 

Flights Hell - Who's Responsible?
 
Tammy decided to extend a party invite to Angela, regardless of the ticket situation, so called her mobile.

"Hello?"

"Good morning, sleepy head."

"Ugh, is it the middle of the night?"

"No, eight-fifteen."

"That almost qualifies."

"I've been invited to a party tomorrow night at the golf club, you want to come?"

"No, the school party was nerve-wrecking enough for me."

"It'll be good experience for you, but this time there'll be no old and stuffy types."

"No, I'm not ready."

So, Tanya had been a good judge after all.

"What are you up to today?"

"Your dad is taking mum shopping a bit later and mum's on the phone to the undertakers right now."

"No, what are you up to, never mind the old ones. We've got to make our own fun. "

"Like what?"

"I have a pile of Christmas cards to deliver that I forgot about, plus I might need a dress for the party."

"I suppose I could do with a few cards, I'd also like to get out of skirts and buy some trousers or jeans."

"That settles it, can you ask your mum to drop you over here so we can head out at ten?"

"I'll try."

"Okay, shower and put something decent on."

"Yes boss."

Tammy was back downstairs after half nine, suitably attired for a cold Highlands day, at least it wasn't snowing. She went for a tartan skirt and really thick tights, plus a woolly sweater; there was no point feeling the cold. Her father was coming out of the study.

"Going somewhere?"

"Into town; you're going shopping with Joan?"

"Yes, we need to stock Joan's fridge and cupboards for a few days. She's heading this way with Angela, I take it you're both going into town."

"Yes, I now have a party invite for tomorrow and need to get organised."

"You know we're not staying here?"

"No."

"We're at the cottage from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, Elsie will be at Cathy and David's. What about this party?"

"It's a ball at the golf club."

"How did you arrange that?"

"I didn't, my friend Tanya did as soon as she knew we weren't going to be out of the country."

"I see, you know you'll have to make your own way back to the cottage? What time does it finish?"

"I don't know. I have a hair and nail appointment tomorrow afternoon too."

"Organised, just how long have you been a girl, young lady?"

"All my life!"

"Somehow I have to agree there. I have news, John McPherson was remanded in custody yesterday afternoon so will be spending Christmas in jail."

"I can't say I'm upset."

"I didn't think so. Also George's funeral is Monday fifth of January."

"That long?"

"It can't be helped. It's at Inverness crematorium, Joan's asked for a simple service."

"What's the legal side?"

"George's sister insisted she was the next of kin because of the divorce but he died in Scotland not England so Scottish law applies. Under those circumstances the undertakers here have kept talking to Joan, it's creating a bit of friction."

"So I can guess, did they want the body shipped south?"

"Yes, Joan's said she'll send them the urn if they want it in Bletchley, where George was born."

"It's a compromise."

"It has to be, anyway many of the teaching staff want to be at the service."

"A sad business."

There was a noise behind them as Angela was delivered by the front door, Joan drove on to park her car by the stables. Angela had managed a better job of her face this time, but she needed to sort out her beard judging by the amount of concealer used - it didn't look like she would receive any female hormones in the near future - she also had her wig on; her self-confidence wouldn't be great today, thought Tammy.

Richard dropped the two girls in town before heading off with Joan. Tammy had requested that they be dropped at the hospital first.

"But Tammy it's a long walk back into town."

"It's not far, and would you rather walk out here, and back, if we started in town?"

"Fair enough, but why come out here?"

"Two things."

They walked into reception, Tammy was here to deliver a card to Jill Davison, her psychologist. Regardless of their recent disagreements Jill had been the one to suggest, or rather insist, on a referral kicking off the process for Tammy. There was a post box in the form of a cardboard box wrapped in themed paper, she put the card in there and turned to leave.

"Miss Smart?"

"Yes?" It seemed that the receptionist recognised Tammy.

"It says here that you missed an appointment last week."

"Oh."

"As it happens, Doctor Yates had to cancel that day but the system's only just been updated, I'm re-arranging for January now."

"I don't know how that happened."

"Never mind, I have rebooked it for Friday ninth of January at half past three, I'll print that off for you."

"Thanks." She turned to her companion, "Angela, do you have a copy of your stat dec?"

Angela dug into her bag and took out a copy, it was becoming a little grubby.

"My friend has changed her name."

"You wait all year ...."

".... then two come along." They laughed, although Angela had clearly never heard the London bus related pun.

The receptionist promised it would be processed then took her own copy of the statutory declaration.

"You have an appointment to see Doctor Yates as well, the same day, as well as Dr Davison."

"Great, what time?"

"There seems to be a little flexibility here, Dr Davison at three thirty and Dr Yates at four?"

"I'll come down with Tammy after school then?"

"Tammy, oh you must mean Miss Smart?"

Finally they went back into the cold air and started walking into town, a coffee beckoned. As they made it onto the main road there was a toot from behind them, waving from behind the windscreen of a little car was Jill. Quick negotiations had them squeezing into the car for a short ride into town.

"Where are you going?"

"I have deliveries, some clothes shopping, but first a coffee and a wee."

"I'm off to the hotel to meet with a few people, I take it you were talking about there?"

"Yes."

"Now, Angela, did Tammy force you into a skirt today?"

"No. Tammy didn't know what I would be wearing until I reached the house, why?"

"Just checking."

"Jill, that's naughty."

"Tammy, why did you say that?" Angela was confused.

"I'll tell you later."

Jill had pulled up outside the Castletown Hotel, it was nearly eleven thirty. The two girls walked into the bar while Jill went off to park.

"Good morning ladies, your friends are waiting." Frances was indicating a corner, near the large bay window. Two girls and a twenty-something boy were sat there.

"Hi Tammy, Angela."

"Hi Tanya, Debbie."

"This is our brother, Peter." He stood.

"Enchanté Mademoiselle." He leant over and kissed Tammy on the cheek. "I've heard so much about you."

Tammy had to sit down quickly, her legs suddenly feeling like jelly. She blushed.

"He's good, isn't he?" Tanya was smiling broadly.

"Hmmmmmmm."

Angela was still stood there, not knowing what to do but finally took a seat next to Tammy. A waitress arrived and took Tammy's and Angela's drinks orders, this time copying the other girls by having fruit juices. David still had his eyes fixed on Tammy.

"Miss Tamara Smart, can I be your escort to the ball? I'll collect you at seven forty-five?"

"I'd be honoured. How come I've not met you before?"

Jill Davison had been stood behind Tammy long enough to catch the last exchange, she quickly moved off to find her own friends, a smile was on her face. A man on an adjacent table was also paying more attention in the proceedings than was polite.

"I'm at Dundee University, I travelled up on Sunday. I understand you're at St Andrews?"

"Yes, Angela and I are the only girls there?"

"All those boys, aren't you tempted?"

"No, the only one who's suitable has ensnared Tanya, or is it the other way around?"

Now it was Tanya's turn to blush, Debbie laughed. "Well done Tammy!"

"Angela, did Tammy tell you about the ball?"

"Yes, Debbie, but I said I wasn't available."

"That's a shame, I think you'd have enjoyed it."

"I need to be with my mum that night."

"I understand."

The waitress was now back with two glasses, she poured Tammy's and Angela's drinks at the table. Tammy decided she needed the toilet, Tanya elected to join her.

"You could have warned me!"

"Ah, but the look on your face."

"I was set up!"

"We didn't know you'd walk in, did we?"

"True."

"Anyway, good timing nonetheless. What do you think of him?"

"Rather nice. Where's his girlfriend?"

"She's gone to Aberdeen for Christmas, he really loves her and won't be anything other than a complete gentleman. Do you have a frock?"

"Yes, a cocktail dress, I wore it in here on Saturday."

"That electric blue one on the shop's facebook page?"

"Yes."

"I have so got to show him."

"Don't you dare, I want it to be a surprise."

Tanya went to leave as Jill walked in, Tammy was trapped.

"Who is he?"

"Sandy Smith's son."

"Oh."

"He's my escort for the ball at the golf club tomorrow night, nothing more."

"Be careful, how much does he know?"

"I'm not sure but this is not a sexual arrangement. I'd just as happily go on my own as my friends will be there."

"Okay, but don't take any chances."

"I am on the pill you know!" She said that as a sixty something lady opened the door from the bar. Tammy went crimson and fled.

Part Eleven     "Taxi?"

 
 
Tuesday 23rd December Continued
 

"Who was that Tammy? Why are you upset?" They were in the Castletown Hotel, Tammy had just fled the loo after speaking to Jill.

"She's a doctor at the hospital, it was suggested I should be careful at the ball." Tammy went on to explain the exchange, most of it anyway. Peter was the one who blushed when reference was made about being on the pill, the girls laughed although Angela wasn't sure at first.

"Don't get any funny ideas, brother," warned Debbie.

That meant the table descending into giggles again, causing some piercing glances from elsewhere in the bar. The occupant of the closest table had left whilst Tammy was in the loo.

Talk turned to everyone's plans for Christmas and New Year, although "don't know" was the most common answer from Tammy and Angela due to their aborted holiday. They'd been in the hotel bar long enough that it was now lunchtime so each ordered a sandwich. Angela didn't seem flustered when it was time to pay, what was going on?

It was around twelve thirty when they all split up, although David now had Tammy's mobile number. Tammy had also managed to remember handing out her Christmas cards whilst in the hotel, catching several of her friends and supporters that lunchtime, including Frances.

Next stop for Tammy and Angela was a discount clothing store. Angela was initially looking for trousers but found printed leggings as well, Tammy just picked up leggings in a variety of single colours plus two pairs of cherry-red jeans. Angela paid for her purchases with a debit card, it was so new that a clear protective strip was still affixed to the front.

"It arrived then?" Obvious question time.

"Yes, on Monday. Mum's had some money from the school, including Dad's last wages, so she's arranged to transfer a few hundred to my account to help me with my wardrobe."

"That's good news. Angela, what have you told your sister?"

"About me?"

"Yes."

"Mum spoke to Suzie first because of dad leaving us and then.... She and he didn't get on, that's why we never saw her up here."

"Is she coming up over Christmas?"

"No, she's spending it at her boyfriend's parents, she hopes to be up in the New Year."

"So she'll be here for the funeral?"

"Yes, maybe a few days either side, she'll hopefully take some time off work."

They next arrived at Sarah's Boutique. Emily was behind the counter and again it was busy.

"Hi Tammy, can you lend us a hand?"

The next customer was Yvonne Stewart. "How can I help you Miss Stewart?"

"I don't want you serving me."

Tammy was dumbfounded, Emily had clearly heard the comment. "Is there a problem?"

"Yes, I don't want this, err, one serving me."

"Then I suggest you leave, and please don't bother to come back unless you have a full and meaningful apology for Miss Smart."

Clearly she was not expecting to be spoken to like that but Yvonne spun on her heels and left the store. For a few seconds there was near silence but the chatter soon started again, with Yvonne Stewart being the main topic. Sarah, who'd been in the storeroom now arrived back, it didn't take long for her to realise something had happened, given the comments being thrown at her,

"That woman was so rude," "How dare she have a go at Tammy," "What's Tammy ever done to deserve that?"

Sarah pulled Tammy out the back to find out for herself, Tammy quickly explained.

"So you don't know what her problem is?"

"No, I tried to speak to her at the school staff party and was cold-shouldered then, not forgetting Sunday lunchtime's false accusation. No doubt I will get a frosty reception from her at school?"

"If she comes back in I'll ask her directly what it's all about, you said Emily handled it?"

"Yes, apparently Yvonne has to come back with a full apology in hand."

"Seems reasonable, now I could do with some help tomorrow afternoon."

"What time?"

"I have an appointment with Sandy at two thirty so could you be here by two at the latest?"

"I can't see a problem, but I'm seeing Sandy at four myself."

"Party?"

"Yes, at the golf club."

"Emily is going, she could pick you up."

"I've had an offer, from a boy."

They had walked sufficiently close to the counter for Emily to hear that.

"Who is he, Tammy?"

"Peter Smith, Debbie's brother."

"Oooh, nice catch."

"Thanks Emily, but it's just for the night."

"I hope so, otherwise his girlfriend will be after you, I know both of them."

"If he doesn't behave then I'll be in touch with his girlfriend myself."

"Come on girls, customers are waiting. Angela, what are you standing there for? Come back here with me."

Tammy and Emily did their best to process the customers but many were after outfits for several parties and were taking ages to reach the point at which they wanted to pay. In the meantime, more customers entered the store.

Out the back, Sarah was explaining to Angela where the stock should be put, several delivery boxes were littering the floor, half-empty. Once that was finished Sarah suggested Angela put on tunic that had just come in.

"That skirt will have to come off, leggings would be best."

"I've just bought some, they're in that bag."

"Good, pop those on and come back out into the shop."

Sarah returned to help Emily, sending Tammy back to help Angela. As soon as she saw what was happening, Tammy grabbed her phone.

"What do you need that for?"

"Advertising!"

It didn't take Angela long to get ready, although Tammy insisted on a tidying her makeup before she was ready to make an appearance.

"I had a delivery today of this tunic, it can be worn over leggings, trousers, or tights if you want to show alot of leg. Give us a twirl, Angela."

Both Tammy and Emily took photos, they chose the best and uploaded a selection to the shop's facebook page, crediting Angela as the model. Of course, quite a few of the tunics were sold on the spot, either for the customer or as presents. Angela went to change back into her skirt and top but Sarah told her she could keep the tunic.

"You might as well wear it from here. By the way, I had six people ask about the dress I lent you for the school party, so there's no charge." Angela looked relieved.

The shop was still busy so Tammy held on until closing time to give Sarah and Emily a hand, once again Sarah opted to go to the bank and deposit her takings into the night vault, down the chute.

Given that there were now three of them guarding Sarah, that reduced the risk, once again Sarah offered to run Tammy back to the house.

"Drop Angela at the house too please, we'll get her to the cottage."

 
 
Wednesday 24th December - Christmas Eve
 
"Good morning Tammy"

"Hi Dad, I forgot to say - I have an escort for the party tonight."

"Who?"

"Tanya and Debbie's brother, Peter."

"What is he, tall, dark and handsome?"

"Yes, yes and yes."

"Whoa, daughter."

"Don't worry, if he's anything other than a perfect gentleman he'll have me, his sisters, mother and girlfriend on his case."

"In that case I'd be worried for his safety! What's your plan for the day then?"

"Sarah wants a hand after lunch in the shop so I want to be down there for that, I might as well get lunch in town too. Then I'm having my hair done before getting back to change, I'm going to be collected from here."

"I've been invited to tea at the cottage and I'll take your overnight case with me, but only if you pack it first!"

"Yes, Dad."

***

"You're early!"

"I figured you might want to get something done before your own hair appointment. Where's Emily?"

"Being pampered."

"Have you had any lunch?"

"Not yet."

Debbie was behind the counter of Reid's Bakery when Tammy arrived but, given that the bakery was busy, they didn't have a chance to talk so it was a simple "later" as Tammy left.

Trade in Sarah's Boutique was steady but it was clear that most customers, or potential customers, already had the outfits they thought they needed from Sarah. During a lull Tammy started walking around the store, taking pictures of the shelves and racks.

"What's that for?"

"This is for the facebook page, to add interest and to show what other stock you keep."

"How much is this costing me?"

"In financial terms, nothing. Of course, models do appreciate something in return for their services."

"Don't over-do it, young lady!"

"No, ma'am."

By two fifteen, Emily had returned from Sandy and Joanne's clutches, with a message that Sarah could be seen immediately, a few seconds later there was a blur as Sarah plus bag and jacket left the store. Between the two of them they managed to photograph almost every item of stock, plus model a few separates. Emily was due to head back to Dundee just a few days after Christmas so wouldn't be able to help during her mother's planned January Sale.

By four Tammy was heading to the salon herself, whilst Sarah was returning to the shop. Fortunately Tammy had been through a waxing a week earlier so was spared that experience for today. Sandy worked wonders restyling Tammy's hair before another girl took care of Tammy's nails, electric blue of course.

Finally, some time after five, she was finished. Unfortunately no-one there offered her a ride home so she called her father.

"Smart taxi services, how can I help you?"

"Ha ha, Dad. Can you pick me up from the hairdressers?"

"I had that enough times from your mother, don't I get a break?"

"Oh, you know I love you, you'll do it for me this time?"

"Tug at the heart strings, will you? Naughty! I'll be with you in ten to fifteen."

"Thanks!"

She turned around to see Sandy looking straight at her.

"Very well done, who taught you?" She spoke softly.

"No-one."

"I can't believe that for a moment, my daughters can't do it that well! Now, please look after my boy tonight, but let me know immediately if he tries anything!"

"Yes, Sandy."

***

At seven thirty that evening Tammy was ready, by quarter to eight she was becoming worried. What didn't help was that the house was very quiet, if it weren't for occasional noises from the kitchen she might have thought she was alone for the first time since arriving at the house the previous month.

Finally a car pulled up outside ten minutes before eight o'clock, she pulled her long coat around, obscuring the dress. Tammy was also in heels, knee high boots. Checking she had her bag, Tammy opened the door to find the driver walking towards her, the passenger side door had been opened.

"Hello, taxi to club?" There was no sign to indicate this was indeed a taxi, she couldn't place his accent either.

"Yes, but I wasn't expecting a taxi."

"Your friend will be at the club."

Tammy was not happy, and reached in her bag for her phone. There was a text message from Tanya:

Mum's on her way to you, prob with Peter's car

"I'm going back in and I suggest you leave."

"You still pay me."

"I don't even believe you're a taxi."

She took a quick look at the rear of the vehicle looking for the taxi licence plate, confirming her suspicions, then immediately tried to return indoors. The front door had closed behind her and Tammy didn't have a key, in fact the didn't need one, one of the staff always opened the door for her. Knowing that the kitchen door would most likely be unlocked she started to run along the side of the house, difficult in heels.

The driver suddenly realised what she was doing and came after her.

"Help!"

He'd almost caught her as she turned the corner by the conservatory and ran straight into Jonathon the gamekeeper, carrying a shotgun; the driver turned and fled with the gamekeeper in hot pursuit. As the driver reached the car he pulled a can of spray from the seat and waited for Jonathon to move into range. Sensing what was going on, the gamekeeper fired, the spray was dropped.

Other staff had now arrived and quickly subdued the driver, eventually using cable ties to secure him. The language in use was not very clean and was mostly not intelligible English.

It seemed to take ages for the police to arrive, during which time Sandy had pulled up. She was ushered into the kitchen where Tammy was shaking. Her father wasn't far behind Sandy, pulling in behind two police vehicles.

Richard was full of rage but knew the police had to speak to everyone first. He did stand nearby to observe while a search was made of the car, the spray was CS he recognised, but ropes and an iron bar were also pulled from the car. He glared at the male who was now handcuffed in the rear of a police car.

Richard walked around to the kitchen where Tammy threw herself at her father, sobbing. "Why, why why?"

He hugged her, behind there was a cough and PC Stuart St James was waiting to speak to Tammy, Richard reluctantly gestured for Tammy to sit down and pulled up a chair next to her.

"Miss Smart, we'll need a full statement later but right now just tell me in your own words what happened."

She recounted the events that had taken only one minute, but was clearly still frightened, pausing frequently. Someone had made a cup of tea and handed it to her to sip.

Richard now felt her could intervene.

"Officer, why would someone want to kidnap my daughter?"

"We don't know that for certain, Mr Smart, please let us conduct our investigation."

"Someone is targeting her, but as far as I was concerned her main antagonist is behind bars for Christmas."

"That is one avenue of investigation. Now, if you'll excuse me I need to make my way back to the station. Another officer will be here to take her statement later tonight or first thing tomorrow."

"It's Christmas Eve and we won't be here for the night, do you know the cottage in the grounds of St Andrews?"

"Yes, but I'd remind you that the Police Service of Scotland does not close on Christmas Day."

PC St James left the kitchen, a few minutes later the vehicles left, Jonathon was not happy, he didn't spot Richard or Sandy when he walked through the kitchen door, let alone Tammy.

"Bloody Police, they reckoned I aimed at him!" He turned, spotted the Smarts plus Sandy Smith and issued a swift apology.

"Sorry, ma'am, Miss, Sir, what I meant to say was that they thought I was going to wound him, it was just a dodgy trigger; I've been meaning to get it looked at. They've taken the shotgun to test it!"

Richard shrugged and suggested the three of them relocated to the sitting room before making any other decisions.

"Oh, Tammy, I wish I knew what was going on!" Sandy summed it up, but added nothing.

Elsie suddenly appeared, driven over by Cathy, presumably one of the staff had called her.

"Oh Tammy, if this is connected to my son I will be disinheriting him as soon as the solicitors office opens."

"Elsie, do you have CCTV? I've not spotted any cameras."

"Yes, there's one camera above the front door and monitors in the kitchen plus Thomas's cubby-hole, that's how they know someone's arrived. Oh, didn't the police ask?"

"No."

"Leave that with me, I don't know if the police could use it but it might be enough for us to identify the horrible man."

"Tammy, I take it you don't want to go to the party now?"

"I couldn't face it, Dad, I ought to get out of this dress and clean my face, I must look awful."

Elsie held out her hand and escorted Tammy to her room. As soon as she was out of the frock and cleaned up she pulled on a nightie and settled in her bed, the idea of sleeping at the cottage was forgotten.

Once Elsie confirmed that Tammy was asleep she spoke to Richard, he also opted to stay at the house so Elsie could head back with Cathy to her pre-arranged Christmas. He phoned Joan to let her know.

"We've had someone snooping around outside, they triggered the new security lighting."

"That may be connected, there was a serious attempt at kidnapping Tammy, or worse."

"Oh, no!"

"The police have the man but we don't know anything else, she's asleep upstairs now."

"Why, why?"

"We don't know. Do you suspect if someone's still there?"

"Nothing's happened for the last fifteen minutes."

"Make certain all the doors are locked. I'm staying here because of Tammy but I'll give the police a call to let them know, it may be connected."

"Now you're frightening me."

"I'm sorry Joan but we don't yet know what we're dealing with. If anything happens, call me immediately."

He rang off then called Thurso Police Station.

"Hello, ths is Richard Smart, is PC St James available?"

"Good evening Mr Smart, I'm afraid he is interviewing at the moment, or at least will when the interpreter arrives. Is there a message you would like to to pass on?"

"Yes, do you know the cottage in the grounds of St Andrews?"

"Yes, I understand you're heading there?"

"No, given the events of tonight I'm staying at the McPhersons with my daughter, but Mrs Small has reported a prowler by the cottage who activated the security lights, they were only installed two days ago."

"So you're suggesting the prowler may not have known about the lighting?"

"That's right, but it seems rather strange that this should occur this evening?"

"Quite, what time did this happen?"

"Mrs Small said it was fifteen minutes ago so that would be around eight thirty?"

"I see, when the night shift come in at ten I'll see if we can send a patrol up there to look around."

"Not sooner?"

"I'm afraid not, we're all occupied with an attempted abduction it would seem. Just to let you know, the car will be collected in the morning. Please don't touch it or attempt to open it."

"Of course not."

He hung up before recalling what the officer had said concerning an interpreter. Curious, had Tammy said anything? He sent Joan a quick text message to update her before heading to his room.
 
 
Thursday 25th December - Christmas Day
 
Richard was awake first, just after seven, so padded to the kitchen to make two coffees, in theory the staff were not expected to work. That idea was disregarded when Leanne came out of the kitchen door in her maids uniform carrying a tray.

"Coffee Sir?"

"Thank you, but I would have done it myself."

"Given everything that happened yesterday I'm happy to do this, will you be taking breakfast?"

"No, we'll head over to the cottage and have something there."

"Very good, Sir."

She started heading up to the bedrooms, Richard knew not to argue. He waited until Leanne had left Tammy's room before going in there himself. She was just coming out of her bathroom.

"Oh Dad, what is going on?"

"I don't know. Now, can you remember anything about how the man spoke?"

"It was awful English, with an accent, but I can't place it."

"The police told me they needed an interpreter."

"I didn't think it was that bad!"

"Never mind, can you get yourself ready, we're going to the cottage. Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas! She leant over and kissed her father on the cheek."

***

Tammy's appetite wasn't at its' best that morning as they sat around the table in the cottage for their Christmas Day breakfast. They'd brought a few presents over but Tammy was surprised to see Angela's laptop displaying a webpage.

"You're online?"

"Yes, the router was delivered yesterday and we were online at lunchtime. I now apparently need an email address."

"That's easy, we'll sort it out."

The two girls made themselves busy around the laptop, Richard and Joan slid into the kitchen for a private conversation, but Richard was pleased that his daughter was distracted.

It was ten o'clock when the door bell rang, Richard answered it to one of the police officers who'd been at the house the evening before. This, of course, made Tammy tense.

Using the now-cleared kitchen table the officer started talking about Tammy's statement but before writing anything down posed a question to her.

"Do you know anyone who might wish to cause you harm?"

"There were two recently but one, sorry Joan, is dead and the other is in a cell."

"I see, were either of them from overseas?"

"No, John McPherson is from Thurso and George Small was from Bletchley, down South." She resisted referring to the recent independence referendum that might have made England a foreign country.

"What about anyone from Eastern Europe?"

"Dad?"

"It might be?"

"My mother was involved with an Albanian who was travelling on false Italian papers, I helped the Met Police arrest him. What was his name?"

There was a pause before Richard remembered. "Alban Berisha?"

"Yes, that was him, oh, Dad what about mum?"

"I don't know Tammy."

"Do you speak to your mother?"

"Not often, mostly through solicitors these days. I believe she's out on bail. You should contact the Met for that information."

"We will, now, can we write the statement?"

Richard tried calling his soon-to-be ex-wife Tara but her phone was switched off. He could contact his solicitor, Gerald, but that would have to wait until the following week unless it was urgent.

Finally Tammy was done, then the officer turned to Joan.

"I understand you had a prowler?"

"Yes, someone was walking around the cottage but they triggered the new security lights."

"No-one came to the door?"

"No."

"Were you expecting anyone?"

"Tammy was due over, but given the circumstances stayed at the house."

"I see. I'll have a look around now."

Richard offered to accompany him, but was warned not to touch anything for the second time in twenty four hours.

Around the back of the cottage there were some impressions in the light snow that had frozen over night, there were also two cigarette butts, about twenty feet apart.

"Does anyone here smoke?"

"No, it's also prohibited in the school grounds."

"I see."

He went back to his car, returning with gloves and evidence bags, as well as a camera. A few minutes later he was back inside to take a brief statement from Joan before leaving.

"Joan, there was definitely someone there."

"So I wasn't hearing things?"

"No, there were two cigarette butts on the ground, they were the unfiltered type common in Eastern Europe."

"What's going on?"

"No-one knows, but if there's an Albanian connection then we need to be very careful, no-one goes anywhere on their own, right?"

***

By late morning, Tammy had just about brought Angela into the twenty first century. She had email working, social media and online shopping setup on her laptop and her phone. Tanya and Debbie Smith had 'found' Angela so she was gathering an online circle of friends, but only accepting real ones that she'd met for now.

Of course Tammy's own phone had been beeping incessantly with queries about the night before. Sandy would have explained to her offspring once they returned from the party, but Emily had only found out that morning. That prompted Sarah to text her - she was struggling to keep up.

Richard suggested they played a board game but this wasn't treated seriously. A check of the BBC website revealed that flights had started returning to normal the previous lunchtime, with extra flights running through the night, much to the annoyance of those living under the flight paths.

The turkey had been cooking since before nine that morning so the entire cottage had that smell, Richard and Joan were now sharing responsibility for the vegetables and desserts, including making lemon sorbets for each of them. There was also a mushroom based starter, this was less of a glorified Sunday lunch and more of an feast,

Tammy and Angela had by now decided to leave the technology alone, Tammy was up in her room going through Angela's wardrobe, with Angela of course.

"We need to get one of the other girls here to give you some advice on what eighteen year old girls are wearing."

"Do you think it's necessary? Where did you pick up your ideas?"

"In the shop."

"Oh, I'd forgotten."

"We'll have to talk to Sarah to see if you can help out?"

"Does she pay you?"

"No, I get little presents of bits and pieces, including the cocktail dress, every now and again."

"I think mum wants me to get a real job, so I have my own money."

"Wait until the new year and we'll see what's around."

"Okay."

***

After the meal, and The Queen's Speech, the presents were given out. Tammy had gone for multiple little things rather than the single box approach. Angela gained a pair of realistic breasts, plus some bra and knicker sets.

With that out of the way, Tammy didn't want to join the adults in their post-meal doze so asked Angela what there was to do? The answer was a jigsaw on the kitchen table. The two girls were making good progress, assisted by Richard when he woke. Then the house phone rang, Joan was nearest.

"Joan, it's Elsie, is Richard there?"

She passed the phone over.

"Richard, there's a problem at the house. I can't get an answer. I'm worried Richard, could you meet Michael at the house in ten minutes?"

"Damn, Elsie, I've had a glass of wine, what about the staff mobile numbers?"

"I don't know what they are."

"I'll see what I can do."

"Thank you."

Richard pondered, it would be at least an hour before the wine was out of his system but dare he risk it? The problem was that you needed a car here, public transport was not as widespread in Thurso as in Edgware.

He called the house for himself. It rang, and rang, he was on the point of hanging up when it was answered.

"Hello?" There was loud music in the background.

"This is Richard Smart, who is that?"

"Sorry Sir, this is Leanne, is there a problem?"

"No, Mrs McPherson couldn't get an answer just now."

"Oh dear, we're having a great party - is she going to sack us?"

"I doubt it, just turn the music down a little so you can hear the phone ring next time?"

"Yes, Sir, good idea."

He called Cathy's house and quickly explained that they hadn't heard the phone, it wasn't necessary to expand on that.

The day at the cottage ended quietly with Tammy in Angela's room and Richard in Joan's bed.

Part Twelve     "Scotland Yard"

 
 
Friday 26th December - Boxing Day
 

No-one was in a hurry to be the first downstairs, but they were all due at the McPherson house for lunch. One of the logistical problems at the cottage was the singular bathroom, Tammy decided that she'd shower back at the house so dressed simply, after washing, knowing she would change for dinner later regardless.

Angela made an effort once she was out of the bathroom and decided to use her new breast forms, although had to reluctantly ask Tammy for a hand with adjusting her bra straps; it was very clear that Angela still wan't comfortable being partly clothed around others.

Finally by eleven o'clock they were all ready to drive over. Unfortunately that meant some exercise in digging out Richard's car. Of greater concern, however, were several foot prints that could be seen in the snow near to the cottage. These weren't close enough to trigger the security lights, but Tammy decided to take several photos with her phone, showing Angela how to do the same.

"Why are we taking these?"

"In case we need them later, they might have disappeared by the time you get back, or even more will be here?"

"Oh."

Tammy and Joan checked all the windows and locks before they left the cottage, whilst Richard cleared the car windows. One light and a radio were was left on indoors; these were Tammy's ideas.

It was nearly eleven thirty by the time they arrived at the house, Tammy went straight up to her room to prepare herself, nearly bowling over Leanne.

"Sorry, Miss."

"No, I'm the one who should be sorry."

Tammy escaped from that conversation before it turned silly, as soon as her bedroom door was closed she started shedding clothes on the way to the bathroom.

She'd resisted the idea of glueing her own breast forms in place, so was frequently able to check her own chest for signs of development. Tammy was convinced she'd have her own orbs by Easter and was a little upset that nothing appeared to be happening. She worked out she'd been taking the pills for exactly two weeks now, just how long did it take?

It was half past twelve when she floated down the stairs in a chiffon dress, an internet purchase on the spur of the moment. The comments ranged from "wow" to "" as mouths opened and closed without uttering a word. The entire image screamed 'girl'.

With the shock out of the way she mingled. All bar one of the McPherson clan were there, as he was otherwise detained, plus guests Sarah and Emily - they had kept quiet about their invite - and, of course, the Smarts and the Smalls.

The lunch was delightful, the standard Boxing Day fayre of cold meats, cheeses, salads. Wine was on the table but most partook of the non-alcoholic fruit punch that the kitchen had prepared.

Of course, some conversations turned to the events of the previous night, which made Tammy feel a little insecure, Richard and Elsie did their best to swing the chat to other topics.

Eventually, around four, the group started to dissipate. Sarah wanted a quick word with Tammy.

"Are you available tomorrow?"

"I think so, but I don't know about transport."

"Aren't you due driving lessons?"

"Yes, but I don't know when they're starting, plus there's the small matter of the test and buying a car before I'm fully independently mobile."

"How about I pick you up at eight fifteen?"

"That early?"

"Yes, I want to open at nine. Also, could you help me on Sunday with the sale stock?"

"I thought that could be after the New Year?"

"I've now decided to do it in stages, some stock will be reduced from Monday but other items will wait until the new year."

"Okay, I'll have to talk to Dad but assume I'll be ready in the morning."

Looking around the room, as Sarah left, Tammy still didn't understand what was going on with Elsie. The previous night Elsie had been really concerned about what was going on but today she was quiet and withdrawn, perhaps her dad could help, later, maybe?

As the party split Tammy managed to hand out the little presents she'd bought for many of them, mostly symbolic. She had received a few gifts as well, but most knew that Tammy either had what she wanted or could afford to buy it without hesitation.

The mid and late evening was mostly spent in her room communicating electronically with the other late teenage girls she knew in Thurso, including the newly-online Angela.

 
 
Saturday 27th December
 
Tammy looked around her room as she exited the bathroom, she'd only been living in the McPherson house for little over a month but already her room had changed in look and feel. Some of the gifts she'd received were trinkets or items that a teenage girl should have, mostly items that Tammy had never previously encountered.

She had been given a case for her earrings, for example, useful now that she had also gained a few new sets of studs and loops. There was a book, "The Teenage Girl's Survival Guide", that should be read soon, very soon, then passed to Angela.

Tammy was so engrossed in the bits and pieces that she almost forgot she was supposed to be dressed, breakfasted and ready to leave by eight fifteen. It was now half an hour before then and she was still wearing a towel.

***

"Hey Tammy, I've been waiting for ages."

"It's only been five minutes."

"Maybe, but I have a store to open and the roads are not brilliant this morning. You can finish sorting yourself out when we get down there."

"Okay, but I do need a wee first and might as well sort out my face ......"

***

"Hi Mum, where have you been? It's nearly nine o'clock."

"You'd best ask Tammy that, if I paid her to be here I might be docking her pay today."

"So where is she?"

"At the bakery picking up essential supplies. Oh, Emily, can you get around there and make sure she's safe? I forgot about the other night."

"Yes, Mum."

Tammy had reached the bakery door before she realised she was on her own, contrary to her father's advice. If someone knew where she was living then there was a good chance they'd also know where she schooled, worked, and found those lovely pastries.

The bakery was empty, although the lights were on. As the door closed behind Tammy she started to get worried, it may only have taken Debbie a few seconds to come from the rear of the bakery, but it seemed longer.

Tammy was relieved to see Debbie but visibly jumped when she heard the street door open. Spinning around Tammy found Emily; she started to cry.

"Tammy, it's okay."

Debbie had come from behind the counter and was comforting the distraught girl.

"When mum told us about it on Christmas Eve we were so worried, we'll find out who's responsible and make their life hell, won't we Emily?"

"We'll try, but I won't be here for many more days, I'm heading back to Dundee for Hogmanay. My Mum was concerned so sent me after Tammy."

"Right, find yourself a tissue and let's sort out your order, then Emily will walk you back."

"It's so unfair that I can't do anything on my own."

"It'll only be for a few days, maybe less."

"How do you know? We think they've tracked me from London."

"Not locals, or Scottish villains then?"

"No, from Eastern Europe." They didn't know how to answer that revelation.

Tammy finally gave her order but by now other customers had arrived. Debbie quickly finished off the order so Tammy and Emily could make their way back. By this time Sarah had opened the shop and had her first customers of the weekend. There was also a new poster in the window, as well as several other locations around the store.
 

 

The morning was ticking over in the shop but there wasn't much spending going on. The most common enquiry was "when is the sale starting?" followed closely by "how much will this be reduced by?".

It was just after one when PC St James arrived at the shop, accompanied by a man in a suit.

"Miss Smart, could we have a word, in private?"

"Officer, I may know you but not this gentleman?" She looked around at Sarah.

"I have to agree with Tammy, she goes nowhere. Tammy, call your father."

"Miss Smart, Mrs Bonney, this gentleman is from London. I have seen his credentials."

"And I haven't. I suggest that if you wish to speak to me you do so at my current address with others present, otherwise you've wasted a journey up here. I shall be free from five o'clock."

Stuart St James nodded and walked from the store with the stranger. Tammy felt empowered but, who was that man? She had reason to trust the police officer but why was this suit unprepared to say who he was, or who he worked for? She'd seen enough television drama plus the odd spy film to know that people like that did exist, and often did not tell the truth over their motives.

This put a dampener on the afternoon, what remained of it. Sarah offered to run Tammy back at four thirty but she called her father and asked that he arranged her transport.

When he did turn up at the shop there was a lady with him.

"Tammy, we're parked just around the corner, I'll introduce you to Louise properly in a bit."

"Okay."

"Just stay close."

Tammy took a look at her father's companion, she was older than Tammy, mid twenties probably, about five foot nine tall and a blonde, natural or otherwise.

Louise took position behind Tammy with her father alongside. His Landrover wasn't far away so they reached it within a minute, although both Richard and Louise were constantly looking all around. Once at the car Tammy was asked to hop into the rear whilst Louise took the front passenger seat.

"Now Tammy, I've decided we need to have some protection so Louise will be with us for a few days."

"Hi Tammy, if you leave the house then I'll be with you, even if your father or someone else is with you."

"Hello Louise, but is this necessary?"

"Yes, unfortunately, we'll talk back at the house."

Tammy opted to head for her room to freshen before joining her father and Louise in the study. PC St James and the suit were admitted by Thomas and directed to join them. Richard closed the door after everyone else was seated, then spoke.

"PC St James, could you first please explain why my daughter was accosted in Mrs Bonney's clothes store earlier, and who on earth is our mystery man? I would advise you that the lady with us is a close protection agent, brought on board by myself today."

"Firstly, Mr Smart, my apologies but I was led to believe that the matter was very urgent given that my Chief Inspector contacted me personally. I think it's best if our visitor from England explains himself."

All eyes now turned to the suit.

"Good afternoon everyone, I'm Detective Inspector Kevin Edmunds from the Counter Terrorism Unit at New Scotland Yard."

"Okay DI Edmunds, why the theatrics earlier?"

"Mr Smart, my presence here could cause problems if it were to become known."

Tammy decided to respond. "DI Edmunds I believe you've already blown that argument, acting like a spook in a clothing store surrounded by townswomen is not the best way to keep a low profile."

Richard continued, "The way you tried to face down my daughter means that most of the teenage population will by now be asking about you. Well done, this is not anonymous London."

"Perhaps, but if we can continue this discussion?"

He paused.

"Miss Smart, I believe you became involved in the apprehension of Alban Berisha?"

"Yes, at Brent Cross."

"Can you describe what happened?"

There wasn't much to say, but Tammy attempted to keep Angela's name out of it.

"Had you met him before?"

"No, but we did drive past his car the previous day, even though we didn't know it at the time. I didn't know his name then, his alias was 'Freddy' I was told."

"You also had an altercation with your mother?"

"I wouldn't call it that, she just wasn't expecting anyone to be at the house, especially not me."

"Inspector, I have to agree with Tammy, there was no fight or argument, just a discussion. My solicitor was present throughout."

"He's my solicitor too." Added Tammy.

"Thank you, I'm just trying to establish the basics. Could you tell me, in your own words, what happened here on Christmas Eve?"

Tammy retold her story; Louise was listening intently, she'd only heard Richard's account of the attempted abduction.

"That's all of it, but I guess you've already read my statement? Did you manage to find an Albanian interpreter?"

"How would you know?" Tammy just shrugged and smiled.

"Anyway, what has been established is that he is from the same village, near Tirana, as Berisha, it would appear that one or more of his brothers is also in the UK and possibly in Scotland."

"Those cigarette butts at the cottage?" Richard was becoming concerned.

"They were identified as an Albanian brand. We're now looking at a much bigger picture, we believe Berisha was here to pay for the sabotage."

"The air traffic system?" Asked Tammy.

"What about Tara?" Asked Richard.

"Yes, and Mr Smart, we've been unable to contact your ex-wife. She may be in trouble."

"I tried to call her on Christmas Day."

"We know."

"Great, my mobile's bugged!"

"No, Mr Smart, we simply ran a check against any number that had called her, or been called by her, in the past month. Your daughter's phone also featured in that list. Would you know where your wife may have gone or what funds she has access to?"

"Have you tried her solicitor?"

"He's no longer representing her, apparently."

"She has more friends in Switzerland than here but she may have gone to her sister's near Canterbury?"

"We checked, the place is empty."

"They also have an apartment in Docklands, near Mudchute DLR station." He passed over the address, copied from his notebook.

"Thank you."

"Now, what about our security? Why are they after my daughter?"

"If we can't locate your ex-wife then there's a good chance they can't either. Unfortunately it's likely that she would able to identify some of the gang? Therefore, in her absence, they might try using Miss Smart as a bargaining tool."

"So, Tammy's at risk?"

"Yes, so is everyone else close to you."

"Until when?"

"Until we've found Mrs Smart and detained the gang."

"Will you be offering us any assistance with security?"

"It looks like you have that covered."

"That's not what I meant, as PC St James knows."

"Mr Smart, we'll increase vehicle patrols past here and the school, plus raise our presence in town, Chief Inspector Brown has issued instructions to that effect but we can only do so much."

"Thank you. I also understand you have a shotgun taken from the gamekeeper here on Christmas Eve?"

"It's with our ballistics team, I'll see if it can be returned, because of the stags obviously."

"Indeed."

There was a knock on the door, followed by Elsie walking in.

"There's a problem at the cottage, Joan just called then the phone went dead!"

Almost everyone went for vehicles, but Tammy was warned by Richard, and Louise, to stay where she was.

"Elsie, I can't do anything at the moment!"

"Come into the sitting room dear, it may not be anything." As she spoke those words a siren was heard disappearing down the drive towards the road. Tammy sat with Elsie but was quiet for a minute or two whilst she thought.

"But what's going wrong with everything? Just over a week ago I was happy, most of the horrible things were behind us and I was looking forward to going back to school. Now, someone tries to grab me, it seems to be connected to the airport problems somehow and now mum's involved."

"Tammy, look at it this way, you have made a major change to your life which was accepted by 99% of those you've come across, your legal status caught up remarkably quickly plus the blood tests identified a potential medical problem that's now being addressed. What that means is that you're healthy, sane and as normal as the rest of us."

"I suppose so."

"Now, school awaits you and that's a safe environment. You have plenty of friends who look out for you, not just in this house but in the town too. You're respected, you were a hit on the stage and you're now getting party invites - how much of that was true as recently as November?"

"Very little. So, what's the negatives?"

"Not as much as you might think, judging by what I've heard. But, you tell me."

"Well, it looks like this Albanian in London was mixed up in rather more than money laundering and drug smuggling. His gang are trying to get to mum through me, Dad or whoever. He may have been involved in the air traffic control sabotage too but that wasn't directed at me personally, was it?"

"No it wasn't. It would also seem that the police are actively involved, you did know that the Chief Inspector is Iain Davison?"

"From the theatre? I don't remember being told."

"Well, I'd be surprised if he isn't going to help - especially if he wants you for the next production?"

Tammy was now sounding a bit better, until her phone rang.

"Yes Dad?"

"Please let Elsie know a stag took out the telephone line, that's the noise Joan heard outside before the call ended suddenly. However, there was also someone creeping around here but they went off in a car when the police turned up."

"Okay Dad, how long are you going to be?"

"Long enough to make sure Joan and Angela are safe. I'll call BT to report the fault, I might be able to persuade them to deal with it as a priority."

"That's a good idea."

She repeated the conversation to Elsie who was now smiling.

"You see dear, it's all getting sorted out."

"I suppose so. Now, forgive me for asking, but are you feeling alright at the moment?"

"I have a few issues Tammy, but it's nothing to be concerned about. How about you pop upstairs and be down in twenty for dinner?"

"Yes, Elsie."

***

Richard spoke to Tammy after dinner, he had been called away from the table by a phone call.

"The police caught up with the guy who was near the cottage, he claims to be an Italian tourist who was lost."

"A likely story!"

"Exactly, the Police are hoping they can match his DNA to the cigarettes but that will take some time. For now they'll interview him in the morning, DI Edmunds is hanging around for a few days it seems."

"What about Joan?"

"The BT callcentre was on the other side of the world and working from a script so I escalated it until I had someone in this country. At first he thought the idea of a stag taking down the line as amusing, then I told him Met Police Special Branch were protecting the cottage he sort of changed his tune."

"So that did it?"

"No, he accused me of stretching the truth."

"Well, DI Edmunds is part of anti-terrorism, isn't me?"

"Yes, but that department was merged with Special Branch a few years ago, so both titles apply. Anyway, I told the guy on the phone he could call Thurso's Chief Inspector and confirm the arrangements."

"So?"

"He went off to speak to someone then came back and said a repair team would be there in the morning."

"Poor Angela, she's only just jumped onto the internet and then loses it!"

"I think you may have misplaced your concerns."

Part Thirteen     "Protection"

 
 
Sunday 28th December
 
Elsie had allocated one of the guest rooms to Louise, the one last used by Joan, although Tammy knew such arrangements couldn't last indefinitely. One thing that she and her father needed to do was to find somewhere of their own.

It had been agreed that Tammy could go into town this morning to help Sarah but Louise would accompany her.

Before they left the house Louise explained that she often changed her hair colour between jobs so, no, she wasn't a natural blonde. She had, however, attended stage school in her teens and could change her mannerisms and voice to suit the situation. Right now her persona could switch from serious to stereotypical ditzy blonde instantly. She also wore contacts and was wearing blue ones at the moment, but again could change as necessary.

She had also asked that Tammy wear a broach that contained a tiny video camera and microphone. None of these details would be passed outside of the Smarts.

There had been fresh snowfall overnight but the roads were mostly clear, once you left the driveway of the McPherson estate. Louise had borrowed one of Elsie's Landrovers because the handling was so much better than her own car, a BMW Gran Turismo.

They arrived in town just after nine and walked directly to Sarah's Boutique, being a Sunday the bakery was closed so there were no pastry items to collect today.

Tammy did the introductions and explained to Sarah and Emily that they should treat Louise as a friend of Tammy's, this was the approach she and her father had agreed.

The morning passed quickly with Louise, Tammy and Emily all pitching in with the restocking, relabelling and repricing according to a plan Sarah had devised. Sarah had also printed several signs herself although a local printshop had provided the standard window banners.

By eleven o'clock they had finished the work but had fielded a few queries from those knocking on the door, so Sarah decided to open the store for two hours, until one. She'd also phoned the Castletown Hotel and booked a table for lunch at ten past one - that way she would definitely close!

There wasn't a rush but it appears word was getting around that there were some bargains to be had, in a manner of speaking. Sarah had found a box of gypsy tops that had been fashionable a few years earlier but had hadn't sold well since. They were effectively dead stock, taking up space and generating nothing. Knocking them down from ten pounds to two for fifteen would achieve the kind of necessary eye catcher bargain.

Several people walking down the lane, especially men and children, looked through the windows of the shop but didn't enter. One pair of eyes lingered.

By one o'clock the last customer had been cleared, Sarah was very pleased as she'd taken about five hundred pounds in the two hours, that bode well for the next few days as more sale stock was put out. Normally she would leave that amount of money, mostly cash, in the small safe behind the counter but her and Emily hadn't deposited Saturday's takings either so bundled all of it up to use the bank's night safe.

The security detail for the walk to the bank now consisted of four ladies. One or two pairs of eyes had observed Sarah locking the shop before they set off, and were now following at a careful distance. These eyes were disappointed when the group met with Detective Constable Ben Franklin near the bank.

"Good afternoon Miss Smart."

"Hello Ben. You've met Sarah and Emily before, this is my friend Louise."

"Pleased to meet you. I just want to make sure that you're safe, there have been one or two bag grabs over the past few days and holding a bank bag isn't the cleverest idea.

"I'm sorry officer but I only brought a small bag with me today and it wouldn't fit!" Sarah had by now deposited the bag and could relax, as could the rest of them.

"As bad as my wife!"

"Consider yourself reported for that remark!"

"Sorry Tammy! Where are you going now?"

"We have a table booked for lunch."

"I'll walk with you, a coffee would be a good idea."

They were a couple of minutes late but Frances didn't complain as he took their jackets before showing them to a table. They had placed their drink and sandwich orders when Frances returned and asked Tammy to go with him. Louise looked concerned.

"Louise, I trust him but by all means come with me."

He led them to his office, tucked out of the way, where Ben Franklin was waiting.

"Hello again, I was on my way here anyway as Frances had phoned the station, but I couldn't say anything out in the street."

"What do you have?"

"Before I say that, could you tell me what your connection to Louise is?"

"Well, Detective Constable Franklin, Louise is my bodyguard for the next few days, but out there she's a friend."

"Right, I did wonder."

"Okay, what do you have?"

"Well, Frances told me that you were in here on Christmas Eve."

"Yes, with Sandy Smith's daughters and son. What have you found?"

"One of the cameras in the bar had a good view of your table and those adjacent. It seems someone was listening to your plans for the evening."

Louise was very interested now. "Can you show us?"

He pointed at a monitor which showed a still from Christmas Eve morning. Two men were sat close by with expresso coffee cups on their table. They could been Italian, Greek or from somewhere else in the Eastern Mediterranean area.

"That was my fake taxi driver!"

"That's what we thought, what about the other one?"

"I've seen him." Louise sounded definite.

"When?"

"Earlier today, around midday. He was in Grove Lane looking through the window into the shop at us."

"So he's still in the area. Thanks for that, I was hoping we might be able to locate him."

There was a knock on the door, Frances walked into his office.

"Excuse me but there is someone asking Mrs Bonney and the bar staff if they have seen Miss Smart."

"Can you show us on the CCTV?"

Frances leant over and tapped a few buttons, the image changed to a live image of the bar area. Ben had his phone out and was asking for backup urgently, but no lights or sirens were to be used. Tammy looked at the others and folded her arms.

"I know, I know, I'm not going out there, Ben."

"We may have a problem, so far he hasn't committed a crime other than be associated with the failed abduction."

"So you want me as bait?"

Louise was plainly not happy.

"I'll be there and the other officers will be close by. If I know Frances, he'll probably call the shinty team too.

"Those nice lads? I've met them."

"Just walk out with Louise, smile and joke. I'll be a few feet behind."

They exited the office, the two girls talking loudly about a party that night, pure fantasy of course.

"I'm so glad you could be here Lou."

"Tammy, I wouldn't miss this."

As they approached the bar the man appeared, just as intended.

"Hello ladeez. Miss Smart?"

"How can I help you?"

"You come with me, quiet okay?" He produced a knife from under his jacket.

"I don't think so."

"Yes, now."

He waved the knife, Louise chopped his arm in one swift movement whilst two large gentlemen in sports style clothing pulled the offending idiot to the floor. DC Franklin moved forward to make the arrest then two uniformed officers finally entered from the street to cart him away.

It all took less than a minute. Louise took Tammy's hand, a visit to the toilet was needed. They just made it through the door when Tammy started to shake.

"Tammy, you did brilliant. Instead of there being no evidence they now have him for real offences that will stick, plus evidence of prior planning." Louise gave her a hug,

"I don't feel brilliant right now."

"Look, you've faced him and he's gone."

Emily came through the door. "There are two rather large gentlemen sat in the bar with orange juice who are saying nothing to anyone but it seems they were involved, unfortunately we couldn't see from where we were sat. That copper had a smile on his face when he went out the door too."

"He's gone?"

"Yes, but a uniformed officer is having a coffee near our table now. I brought your bag as you left it on your seat, get yourself straight then rejoin us."

Tammy had a wee first, then another quiet sob. Finally she washed and re-applied her spoilt face paint. Fixing a smile she walked back out with Emily and Louise. As they passed the bar the two shinty players spoke.

"Good afternoon Miss Smart."

"Thank you gents, again."

"Our pleasure."

A good number of heads turned as the three walked back to their table where their sandwiches awaited, it would seem that Frances had deliberately not served until Tammy was ready to return to Sarah and Emily, fresh drinks were also provided.

"We didn't ask for the refills and the staff haven't given us a bill, yet."

"I'll speak to Frances before we leave."

Before she started her food Tammy acknowledged a uniformed officer who was just leaving, DI Edmunds however, trying to blend in as a member of the public, was now sat nearby with an orange juice; Louise made small talk.

"How are you finding Thurso?"

"There's more going on here than I thought?"

"True enough, fancy coming up to the house later?"

"I might do."

"See you later, then." Louise turned back to the others who were now discussing the more amusing customers of the day.

She suddenly turned back to speak to the DI.

"Oh, I forgot to mention, I have a video you might find useful, it'll be available later."

"Okay, thanks."

"Tammy, we need to speak to your father."

"I know, but not in here."

"Agreed.

They finished their lunch, Tammy tried to persuade Frances to supply a bill but he refused. Not willing to leave it like that she walked to the bar and asked the barman to put a twenty pound note in the staff tips box and supplied ten pounds extra "to keep these fine gentlemen supplied with orange juice."

"Thank you Miss." The barman dealt with the cash.

The two shinty players thanked her but then followed Tammy back to the table where everyone was putting jackets on.

"We understand you're leaving, would you ladies mind if we walked with you?"

"That's a very kind offer, thank you."

"It's no trouble at all. I know we're off duty but we are PCs Andrew & Neale Fraser when in uniform, Andy and Neale otherwise. Okay?"

With a nod of thanks to Frances the four ladies and two part-time shinty-playing police officers walked out into the snow. A few minutes later they were by their vehicles.

"Many thanks, guys, I'm hoping that it's all over?"

"We're on late duty for a couple of night so we'll keep our ears open and call the McPherson house if necessary."

"Thanks."

The pair stood there long enough to see the two pairs of ladies pull out of the carpark.

Tammy pulled her phone out to call her father, putting it on speaker.

"Dad, we're on our way but there was another incident."

"What!"

"Calm down Mr Smart, we were fully in control of the situation."

"I'm glad to hear it Louise."

"It seems Tammy has excellent backup in this town."

"I had noticed."

"ETA ten minutes."

"Okay."

Tammy ended the call as they climbed the hill towards the McPherson estate, it was close to three o'clock when they parked by the stables. Louise told Tammy to wait until she had walked around to the passenger side, before walking with her across to the house.

***

DI Edmunds and DC Ben Franklin arrived an hour later, a small meeting was convened in the study. DI Edmunds took the lead.

"Mr Smart, Miss Smart, we've positively identified today's assailant as Duran Kelmendi, a Kosovan. So far he's refusing to speak but his fingerprints were a match with a set in the Italian police database."

"Do you have enough to charge him?"

"Yes, but the more evidence we have the better."

"We can help," this was Louise, "the broach Tammy is wearing has a camera and a microphone. I've transferred the footage of the hotel incident onto a DVD for you." She handed it over.

"Thank you, Louise, but I'm afraid we'll need your full details for the chain of evidence, as well as a statement for the incident, you as well Tammy."

"I guessed that, Ben."

"We could do with footage from his walk along Grove Lane earlier, does the broach camera cover that?"

"No, but Sarah Bonney has cameras in the store, one is pointing straight out through the window, another monitors the doorway and window."

"I didn't know that and I work there!"

"Tammy, I'm paid to notice such things."

"Thank you, we'll visit her tomorrow morning."

"Now, my question is, am I safe?"

"We located your mother about an hour ago and are talking to her at a safe house; we're hoping she can give us real information this time that will identify the gang. When we have all of them the threat is neutralised."

Richard spoke next. "I tried Tara's phone about then, whilst Tammy and Louise were on their way up here, it's still switched off."

"We've got it at the moment but in any case she would be told not to put it on as it could be tracked."

"Right."

"We'll ask her to contact you when it's safe to do so."

"DI Edmunds, does she get due consideration to the charges she's facing if she co-operates?"

"That's not up to me Mr Smart."

"Oh well."

"Can we get on with the statements, please?"

 
 
Monday 29th December
 

Tammy was in town before eight thirty and went straight to Reids Bakery as usual, although this time Louise accompanied her. Debbie was there again.

"Hi Tammy, Louise."

"How do you know my name?"

"Well, Emily was talking to me last night ....."

As other customers walked in Debbie returned to a business-like approach and quickly served four pastries to Tammy. A minute later they were at the shop.

There had been no further snowfall overnight and the paths were now clear due to salt and grit. The sun was actually trying to brake through in a late dawn, Tammy actually felt it was going to be a good day.

The morning was steady, but at eleven Emily gave her farewells and walked out, heading for her car, almost walking straight into Yvonne Stewart.

"Mind where you're walking, girl!"

"Ms Stewart, you may have got away with that at Dundee Academy for Girls but here in Thurso it doesn't work, you're just rude. Apart from that you were the one looking into the shop window and not looking where you were going. Are you here to apologise?"

"The insolence!" She walked away, rapidly.

Emily put her head back inside the door. "I don't think you'll see her for a while, if ever."

Louise was wondering what it was all about, as it was quiet Tammy took her into the storeroom to talk.

"That woman, Yvonne Stewart, has just been appointed a deputy head at my school. I have tried to approach her but she's plainly rude and obnoxious, the problem is she's also the sister of Elsie's son-in-law.

"I see, what's her history?"

"I'm trying to get some background on her however I don't have a great deal yet. She made a scene in here a few days ago and insisted on not being served by me, Emily told her to leave the shop immediately. Emily will help when she's back in Dundee as she's at college with girls from Yvonne's last school."

"I see, I may be able to find something out myself."

They walked back into the shop and six ladies were picking through the sale stock, some of it landing on the floor. Tammy was out there, amongst them, trying to tidy the clothing in an ever fruitless battle. A few tried to ask Louise questions but her response was that she was Tammy's friend but was early for their lunchtime meet-up so had come to the shop to wait. That seemed to satisfy them.

Finally at twelve Sarah suggested Tammy took Louise off for lunch, with strict instructions to be back before one so Sandy could lunch as well. That way, she explained, the shop could stay open throughout.

The pair were out the door a minute later, choosing to head for Le Bistro instead. Given the events of the previous day they were very likely to be interrogated in the Castletown Hotel. Both ordered a seafood salad. Louise went back over the previous day's incident.

"You handled it very well yesterday."

"No I didn't, I was a wreck."

"Yes you did, what happened in the loo, afterwards, was understandable and a very normal reaction. The point is that whilst everything was going on you appeared to keep a cool head."

"I guess so."

"I say so."

The waitress returned with their drinks, pausing the conversation.

"When are you back at school?"

"Next Tuesday."

"Would you normally be going anywhere alone then?"

"Only into town on a Saturday to work at Sarah's Boutique as well as doing any shopping I need for myself."

"I see."

"What are you thinking?"

"That either in the next few days we'll know that the threat against you has gone otherwise you'll still need company from Friday night through to Sunday."

"Friday?"

"That's a potential girls night out."

"I forgot, that's what happens when you're living in a boarding school when you really can't go out in the evening any day of the week."

"But you're not a boarder any more and opportunities will come up, especially as you're plugged into the local girls' network now."

"So I might still be at risk next week, next month?"

"I didn't say that, but we need to clarify the situation within a few days before I and your dad make a decision about time beyond the fifth of Jan."

"Don't I get a say in the matter?"

"That's a conversation you should have with your father."

Whilst Tammy was pondering her response their food was delivered, meaningful vocal intercourse was suspended.

They were back at the shop in good time so Sarah was off to her own lunch before one o'clock, returning three quarters of an hour later.

"There's plenty of chat in the hotel about you."

"What have I done now?"

"No, it seems that not one of the customers yesterday saw anything before the guy was on the floor and being arrested, the suggestion is that you just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. The staff, of course, are saying nothing. The barman, in particular, will not be quizzed."

"Hmmm, I wonder why that is?"

"Young lady, do I detect that you influenced the barman?"

"Well, he'll be a good friend for a few weeks, and Frances is such a dear."

"And they reckoned you were a boy, bah!"

There was movement in the shop as the next gaggle of bargain hunters arrived, Sarah gave Tammy a sign to bring out the 'newly arrived' stock that had been prepared the previous day for staggered release. This was another range of tops that had actually been lurking, lost, in the back for almost a year.

Sarah again used the "Buy one, get one half-price" method which had the desired effect of that top being bought two at a time. In the space of half an hour she took four hundred pounds and was feeling happy, with the December takings so far she was close to clearing the overdraft that had almost seen her close the shop on the nineteenth of November due to the bank calling in the overdraft. How much more the discounting generated until it ended on the tenth of January was anyone's guess.

The rest of the afternoon saw another six hundred making the whole day close to two thousand pounds in a mix of card and cash transactions.

"Girls, I'll leave this in the safe and go there tomorrow morning instead. Tammy, could you ask Angela to come down tomorrow so perhaps we could train her? With Emily gone we could do a third pair of hands."

"She's been told to get a paid job by her mum."

"Ah, and I don't pay. Okay, leave that with me but can you still ask her to come down for the experience as it'll help her get a cashier job somewhere else."

"Sounds like a plan."

With the takings safely locked away they killed the lights and walked out into the night. Sarah had this time brought a larger bag in case of using the night safe but right now all it contained was an empty fabric cash bag and a roll of the see-through cash pouches. This was in her hand at the moment, her small bag was strung across her, under her jacket for protection.

Suddenly a man came up behind them and grabbed the larger bag, Sarah was irate! He pulled hard enough that he broke her grip but hadn't reckoned on Louise putting him in a hold on the ground.

"Tammy, could you be a dear and phone the police?"

Tammy used her phone to call 999, it didn't take long for officers to turn up.

"Good afternoon, Miss, what do we have here?"

It was Tammy's favourite double-act, the PC Fraser brothers. Now the would-be robber started making accusations of assault.

"He made a grab for Sarah's bag, no doubt thinking she was heading to the bank with the takings."

"It's a stitch up!" Came the voice from the cobbled roadway.

"By the way, that camera up there," she pointed to the semi hidden device, "should have the whole incident recorded."

"Thank you, we've been wondering when James Dougall, here, would try something. Only out of prison on Christmas Eve too. We'll need statements from everyone Miss Smart, Miss Bonney, best if we do that in the morning? We can collect the video as well."

"Sounds good to me." Sarah simply wanted to get home.

"We'll have to take the bag for now, I'm afraid.Could you get off Mr Dougall, please."

Louise stood carefully so the thief could be arrested, cuffed, and led away, still moaning. Sarah didn't know whether to laugh or cry after the attempted street robbery but was certainly grateful she hadn't lost the day's takings.

Of course, when told, Richard was not amused that Tammy had been involved in yet another incident, even if she wasn't the target. It did however, help her realise that females are more likely to be the victims of opportunist street robbery than males. Louise promised to teach her some defensive moves.

Tammy just remembered to send Angela a text about the following day but was asleep before any reply was received.

Part Fourteen     "Tammy's Fireworks"

 
 
Tuesday 30th December 2014
 

Louise drove Tammy round to the Small's cottage to collect a reluctant Angela.

"Why should I do this if I'm not getting paid?"

"Well, when you fill in an application form for any job that deals with the public, what will you write against 'Relevant Experience'? Someone with experience has an advantage over someone without."

"Mum, is this true?"

"Yes dear, and I think it's a great idea - be sure to thank Sarah."

Tammy did wonder if Angela was really planning on spending the day surfing the web but Miss Small was now severely out-numbered. A minute later they were back in Louise's car and on their way into town.

It was mid morning and the shop was strangely quiet when Sarah asked for all her staff's attention.

"I need to do a bank run and I'd like some company."

Tammy analysed the situation. "Sarah, I'm happy to come along with you but Louise would have to be with me as well, that would leave Angela on her own?"

"I can't do that." Ever the positive from Angela.

"You've coped so far today, plus it'll only be for ten minutes."

"Sorry, Sarah, but I can't - I'll get something badly wrong."

"That's absolute rubbish, and you know it."

The door opened and one of the previous evening's officers walked in.

"Oh, have I walked in on a meeting of the women's guild, or is it the Thurso coven?"

If death by handbagging was legal in Scotland I'm sure it would have been used at that point on the Shinty player in a police uniform. Instead, a chorus of giggling had to suffice.

"Sorry officer, but we're working out our security detail for a trip to the bank."

"Well, I need statements and I can't do that if you've gone to the bank, so I'll accompany you there and make certain you come straight back." He pointed at Angela, "you can join us, to make up the numbers."

A minute later Tammy and Louise were on their own.

"Tammy, what do you have planned for New Year's Eve?"

"Nothing at the moment, but Elsie apparently throws a party at the house."

"It's not happening this year."

"Oh, something to do with how Elsie is at the moment?"

"Yes, she doesn't want the stress."

"Well, we need a party invite!"

Within ten minutes the security detail had returned from the bank. PC Neale Fraser started taking the three statements, using the storeroom where he could speak to all of them individually. He then asked for the footage from the shop's security cameras, which showed James Dougal leaping out of the shadows at Sarah.

"That will do nicely."

 
Wednesday 31st December New Years Eve 2014
 

Tammy and Angela were again helping Sarah at her shop but Tammy had nipped along the lane to Sandy's Hair Salon to speak to her ticket agent. Louise had tagged along.

"But Tanya, there must be something you can do?"

"There are no tickets left anywhere, Tammy, we bought ours in September and the party could have been sold out several times over."

"Damn."

"Look, there's another under-25s party at the golf club on Saturday night, I know tickets are still available so come along to that one."

"Okay, Angela might want to come this time plus her sister arrives in town on Saturday."

"Right, that makes four of you including Louise. It'll be sixty pounds, can you pay me today?"

"If I can get along to an ATM, otherwise Friday? We'll need our hair done on Saturday."

"I'll check with mum when she gets back from the bank, but be down here at lunchtime Saturday unless you hear otherwise."

"Okay, bye."

"Bye."

***

Sarah had shut the shop at four as the trade dwindled away to nothing, the girls made a dash to the bank and supervised whilst Tammy took a hundred from the machine, after Sarah dropped two days worth of takings down the chute.

No sooner were they back at their respective homes than Tammy felt it necessary to call her friend.

"Angela, I forgot to ask, what are you doing tonight?"

"Nothing, as usual. We never did anything on New Year's Eve."

"Oh, I didn't realise."

"Why, what's up?"

"Elsie's cancelled her party and I can't get tickets for anywhere else."

"Are there any fireworks in the harbour? We could just see them from the cottage, if Dad hadn't already decided it was bedtime."

"I don't know, but I also have no transport arranged yet."

"It's an idea, I'll try the Thurso echo's website and you can find us a car and driver."

"Thanks, you get the easy job."

"I'm still learning this."

"How did you think of the newspaper so fast then?"

"Mum scribbled it down when she heard me mention fireworks."

"Bah! I'll call you later."

"Bye."

***

There was a definite cloud over the McPherson house at dinnertime, none of the staff were joyful and Elsie was so quiet she might as well not been there. Tammy knew better than to ask openly but exchanged a few glances with her father.

Once they started moving from the table, Richard guided his daughter into the study; Louise was left outside.

"Right, what's worrying you?"

"Elsie for starters but even the staff look dour."

"I've already said, Elsie has some medical issues right now and that's got her down. She couldn't cope with the party so it can't happen this year. Unfortunately the staff actually look forward to this party, despite the extra work, so it's affecting them too."

"I guessed it was something like that, but what is wrong with Elsie?"

"She doesn't want anyone to know right now, so please respect her privacy. She'll tell you and anyone else when she's ready."

"Okay."

"Now, what are you planning for tonight instead?"

"I couldn't get tickets to any parties but I'd like to see the midnight fireworks in the harbour, if there are any?"

"There are, I bet you will want a lift down there?"

"Yes, please."

"Sorry, but I'm keeping Elsie company and Joan is coming over."

"Angela is going to be with me."

"Well, maybe she can stay in your room tonight to keep things simple?"

"I'll ask the staff to sort that out. Is Joan staying?"

"Maybe."

"I'll take that as a yes, then."

"Don't be cheeky, young lady. Now, Angela's sister will be here Saturday lunchtime."

"I know, there's a party on Saturday night, I have tickets for four of us."

"Four?"

"Me, Angela, Suzie and Louise."

"You haven't asked Suzie or Louise yet have you?"

"No, but had to get the tickets now. It's at the golf club."

"Oh, is that going to be a problem?"

"I don't think so; definitely no taxi this time."

Tammy started crying, remembering the events of Christmas Eve.

"Tammy, it's alright. You don't have to go to the party."

"I must, I must do it!"

"Okay, but stay with everyone. You'll have to ask Louise yourself.

"Yes, Dad."

Richard opened the door and called Louise into the study.

"Tammy's just told me she has tickets for a party on Saturday."

"Okay, where is it, Tammy?"

"Thurso Golf Club."

"That's the same place as ..."

"Yes."

"I was leaving on Saturday."

"You were? When were you going to tell me?"

"Tamara Smart, Louise and I only discussed it this afternoon when you returned."

"Sorry, Dad, Louise."

"Anyway, if you can get me a ticket I'll come along to the party and leave on Sunday."

"Great, there's Angela and her sister Suzie too."

"A car-full, then?"

"Erm, yes."

"What else?"

"Are you busy tonight?"

"No, why?"

"I'd like to see the fireworks, Angela too."

"Can't you see them from here?"

"I don't know but we'd like to go down to the harbour."

"What time?"

"Nine or ten?"

"I was hoping for an early night."

"Pleeeze."

"Got you!"

***

Tammy's evening surprise was an email from her mother.

From: Tara Smart
To: Tom Smart
Cc: Richard Smart
Date 31 December 2014 18:50
Subject: Sorry
 
Tammy,
I'm sorry. I've been a fool but I've had time to think. I don't now blame you or your dad for what has happened to you but I should have seen the signs. I did find girl's things in your luggage when you stayed during the summer holidays but I thought it was some girlfriend's things, I had no idea how you felt. I guess it's not a fetish either. Your aunt Wendy, my sister, has helped me see beyond the headlines.
 
It was a shock seeing any of you at the house as I wasn't expecting anyone to be there. I was stressed and wanted to be alone. I had anger towards your father as I believed her was trying to do me out of what was mine. My solicitor tried to explain it to me but I sacked him, stupidly.
 
Please let me know if you have a new email address as you won't be using this one any more.
 
Your loving mother

Tammy read her mother's email, spotting that it had been copied to her father. She quickly sent a reply.

From: Tamara Smart
To: Tara Smart
Bcc: Richard Smart
Date 31 December 2014 19:08
Subject: Re: Sorry
 
Hi Mum,
It's good to hear from you. Maybe we can meet up again once everything is cleared up?
 
Tammy
 
btw this email is from my new address.

She also copied her reply to her father but not so her mother would know. It was a petty issue but her mum had been known to miss little things like that in the past. She'd now admitted to being a fool, a gullible fool at that. What was obvious was the lack of direct reference to the court case, Tammy had been careful in her reply not to mention it either as it was highly likely her mother's email account was being monitored.

A simple reply of "Well written" came from her father a few minutes later. Tammy guessed that she'd also written to him but that would have been about the divorce, Tammy was already too involved in that.

Her phone rang.

"Hello Angela."

"Hi Tammy, guess what?"

"No, I can't."

"Can't what?"

"Guess."

"Oh, anyway I had a letter today from Professor Roberts, mum's just given it to me. He wants to see me in Glasgow on January nineteenth."

"That's a Monday, what time?"

"Ten."

"Best book a hotel then."

"Why?"

"Glasgow from here? It's not 'just down the road'."

"I hadn't thought."

As usual, Tammy thought, cruelly. "Speak to your mother, she'll be seeing my father later."

"She said something about me staying with you tonight?"

"Yes, Louise will take us down to the Harbour, your mum and my dad are staying with Elsie."

"Okay, I think I'll see you in an hour."

 
Thursday 1st January New Years Day 2015
 
"That was a good display Tammy."

"How many have you been to?"

"One or two, but this was the biggest."

"It wasn't too bad, but I've seen much better."

"Where?"

"Oh, London, Paris, Barcelona, New York ......"

"Show-off."

"Come on, Louise is waiting to take us back. Have I told you about Saturday's party?"

"Yes, but I can't, Suzie will be here."

"I have tickets for both of you."

"So do I have a choice?"

"No."

"When and where?"

"The golf club, from eight."

"Who's taking us?"

"I am," Louise was close enough, despite the crowds, to overhear their conversation, "but if you don't get a move on we won't get home before Saturday!"

It was clear to Tammy that Louise was no longer needed to provide close protection and was now being withdrawn just before she returned to St Andrews School, with the new term starting the following Tuesday. The previous day, Monday fifth of January, was when the funeral of George Small would take place. How that would affect Angela was difficult to guess, but right now she was gaining in confidence.

When they arrived back at the house an extra bed had been put in Tammy's room. As there was no sign of her father, nor Angela's mother, the two girls went straight to bed with sleep not far behind.

***

"Come on, Tammy."

"What?" She yawned loudly.

"This is the third time I've told you breakfast was waiting."

"Leave me alone." Tammy rolled over, away from Angela. A second later the duvet had been swept off the bed.

"Come on, get moving." Angela had wrapped a dressing gown around herself and was now padding out of the door in backless fluffy slippers.

It was another five minutes before Tammy arrived at the breakfast table, finding only Angela there.

"Where is everybody?"

"In bed probably."

"Eh? What's the time?"

"Seven thirty."

"Seven thirty on New Years Day?"

"What's wrong with that?"

"It's inhuman! We didn't get back here until nearly one this morning."

"In my day you might have been allowed to listen to Big Ben on the radio at midnight and off to bed a minute later, if you were lucky."

"Good morning Elsie, Happy New Year." Angela repeated Tammy's reply.

"Good morning to you both, I trust you enjoyed last night?"

"Yes, Elsie, but I think I would have preferred to have been here?"

"Ever the diplomat Tammy? No, I couldn't have managed the party so don't feel guilty."

The staff now brought coffee, orange juice and toast whilst checking what each of them wanted for breakfast. Elsie seemed to always have kippers, smoked herring, but Tammy wasn't keen on them as they tended to give her tummy trouble for the rest of the morning.

"I'll try kippers too," stated Angela. Tammy decided not to wind her up, but to keep upwind of her friend.

"I'll have the full English, I mean Scottish please."

That earned Tammy a quick glare from Elsie, who seemed to be a little brighter this morning than of recent weeks. Tammy gave her a little smile back.

They'd almost finished when Richard and Joan arrived at the table.

"Happy New Year to you girls."

"Happy New Year to you too." In stereo of course.

"Tammy, we need to discuss a few things about what we're doing this year. After breakfast please."

"Yes, Dad."

"Angela, we need to discuss Monday."

"Yes, Mum, do we?"

"Yes, I'll need you."

"Okay."

Tammy rose from the table, beckoning Angela to do the same. "We'll get ourselves decent, are there any plans for the day we should be aware of?"

"There will be a buffet reception here starting at two."

"Thank you Elsie, come on Angela we need to plan your outfits for the day."

Angela hadn't brought any frocks with her for this one night stay but Tammy wondered if anything of hers would fit Angela?

"Try this one?"

"No way!"

"It stretches."

"Probably in all the wrong places! This won't do, Mum will have to run me home, she probably needs to choose a dress for herself."

"True. Anyway, do you reckon you'll get away with leggings around Elsie?"

"I have a smock I can wear, it's almost knee length."

"That will probably do." Tammy eased herself into a tartan skirt, almost a kilt, then a white blouse.

"Very smart, Miss Smart."

"Thank you."

There was a knock on the door, "Enter."

"Are you ready?"

"Yes Dad."

"Angela too, your mum's waiting for us downstairs."

They walked into the study, closing the door firmly. Richard was plainly running this meeting.

"Firstly, the funeral. We're leaving here at eight. Angela, you, Suzie and your mum will travel in the limo, Tammy you and I will travel with Elsie in the Range Rover. There will be a coach from St Andrews for any staff or students who want to attend."

"Okay."

Angela looked at the other three and just shook her head."

"I can't do it."

Her mum answered, "Angela, you must, for me. Regardless of anything else he was your father, and my husband. Suzie has already told me that she'll be with me even though she hadn't seen your father for three years."

"If Suzie can do it then I'll do it."

"Thank you."

"Tammy, Angela, the wake will be at the school but you don't have to attend it."

"Dad, we'll decide on the day, won't we Angela?"

"Yes, I suppose so."

Richard gave Tammy a look for that exchange but said nothing. Joan appeared to have missed it.

"School is back on Tuesday so I'd expect you both to be ready." The girls nodded. "Joan is starting work on Tuesday as well and will provide your non-academic support. Remember, she's Mrs Small in the school."

"Yes Dad." "Yes Richard."

"Now, accommodation. Suzie will stay here whilst she's in Thurso but we can't impose on Elsie for much longer."

"Angela, I know I get the cottage as part of the job, as your father did, but it's really too small for us now, especially if your sister was now willing to visit occasionally."

"I know mum, but what can we do?"

"Richard has an idea."

"Yes, but it's too early to say what it is, give me a few days to confirm details."

***

The afternoon reception went well, with many of Elsie's friends dropping in to see her. Cathy and David, were of course present but Tammy started to feel like a spare part when she hardly recognised anyone.

One exception were the Smiths, especially Tanya. "Got the money?"

"Blimey, Happy New Year to you too!"

"Tammy, I'm out of pocket."

"So will I be in a minute, come up to my room as I don't have any money on me right now."

Tammy beckoned Angela to follow, Richard saw the three girls leaving the room and just shrugged.

"Nice room!"

"Thanks, but it sounds like we won't be here for much longer."

"Oh, leaving?"

"No, just relocating in Thurso. I'll still be around."

"Good, unless you're going to moan about paying me?"

"No, here's the sixty you wanted. Angela, you and Suzie both owe me fifteen and I'll get the other fifteen off Louise."

"Here's the tickets, can I use your bathroom?"

"Sure, over there."

"Angela, I'll miss this place. It's only been two months but it really feels like home."

"I can't wait to get out of the cottage, too many dark memories."

Part Fifteen     "I Feel Love"

 
 
Friday 2nd January 2015
 
Unlike the rest of the UK, January the second is a public holiday in Scotland. Unfortunately for Angela and Tammy that still meant being at Sarah's Boutique before nine as this would hopefully be a bumper day for her retail emporium.

Trade was steady but the extra sales items were attracting plenty of interest from customers. Tammy had again put photos of the latest bargains on the shop's facebook page, ensuring that the teens and twenty-somethings of Thurso also had a reason to visit Sarah's Boutique.

Almost every shopper was leaving having paid for several items and Sarah's cash register was singing a happy tune. Sarah's smile was also broadening.

"Tammy this is my best ever fortnight, thank you!"

Sarah's joy was down to her realisation that her overdraft had been cleared and she was now healthily sporting a positive bank balance. Tammy had arranged, demanded, for her overdraft restrictions to be changed after the bank decided to give her an impossibly short period in which to repay it.

"We're all going out for lunch on Sunday, my treat."

"I'll have to clear it with Dad first, Louise will be gone too."

"Angela?"

"I don't know, I'll talk to Mum."

"Okay, but I want to book the table now. I'll be back in a minute."

Sarah took her coat and was out of the door, still smiling. Louise and Alison couldn't understand why Sarah was so happy just because takings were up.

"Let's just say that the bank decided to make it difficult for her, I helped them see sense and now she doesn't need to worry about them at all."

It was near four o'clock when Tammy had a surprise, her phone rang but the number was unknown.

"Hello?"

"Hi Tammy, it's John Hibbert."

"Hi John, new phone?"

"Yes, anyway I'm about an hour out of Thurso and this is the first signal I've had for ages. Can you let Tanya know I'm back tonight but I don't know if I can get into the school before tomorrow. Her phone's off."

"Why are you back then?"

"My folks had to go to my aunt's, she's unwell, so I came North a day early."

"Okay, I'll go to see her now."

"Thanks Tammy."

"Bye."

"I have to go to see Tanya and sort out a bed for John for the night."

"Tammy, I'll be locking up in a minute."

"Okay Sarah."

Tammy and Louise walked down to Sandy's Hair Salon but the lights were all out. "Damn, it's a bank holiday." She tried Tammy's number but again her phone was off. Tammy then tried facebook messenger and found Tanya online, courtesy of some other technology.

"Call me"
"Can't phone's dead, what's up"
"John's an hour out of Thurso and needs a bed for the night. We're full up!"
"David's gone back so his room is free. I'll ask mum."
"Ok. Call John - his new number is 07......."
"Will do, tnx"

Of course Tammy was trying to have this conversation whilst walking along a street still occupied by pedestrians. Louise had to guide her once or twice.

"Tammy, you don't need me to protect you from others, just yourself!"

"Thanks, Louise, thanks a lot."

"All part of the service."

Sarah decided against going to the bank, leaving that until the following day, Saturday, so her and Tammy were ready to leave as soon as Tammy and Louise returned. Tammy was back at the McPherson home ten minutes later.

It was after dinner that Tammy's phone next rang.

"Hi Tammy."

"Hi Tanya."

"Thanks, John said he had been trying to get hold of me for hours."

"He cares about you, and wanted to let you know he was on his way."

"I know."

"What about tomorrow?"

"Mum's said he can stay tomorrow and return to the school on Sunday, that means he can take me to the party."

"Great, I'll see you tomorrow lunchtime, if you remembered to book it?"

"Oh, sorry, mum says two o'clock for you and Louise, three for Angela if she wants her hair done."

"I'll let her know, what about Suzie?"

"Send her the same time as Angela, we'll squeeze her in, somehow.

"Thanks, you do know that I've never met Suzie?"

"I guessed, otherwise you've have already told me all her likes and hates."

"I'm still learning, remember?"

"Are you sure? I know girls who don't get that, even if they're way older than you."

"More experienced, you mean?"

"No, those with cotton wool for brains. Anyway, John's here and he wants a cuddle - got to go!"

"Okay, bye, love to John!"

"I will, bye."

A text was sent to Angela, warning her of the hair appointments but no reply was forthcoming.

 
Saturday 3rd January
 
Tammy and Angela were dropped into town by Louise, who said she had other things to do.

"Not staying with me, then?"

"No, officially my contract finished last night so I was leaving today, remember?"

"Oh, yeah."

"I'll be back for you at four."

"Right, see you later."

It was already gone eight thirty but Tammy didn't head directly to the shop.

"Where are we going?"

"The bakery."

"Why?"

"Ever wondered where those mid-morning pastries come from?"

"No."

"Never mind, let's go see Debbie."

The bakery was busier than normal this morning so it took them a few minutes to reach the counter. Once the girls had their supplies they were pushed towards the door by those who wanted the counter space.

"I'm not used to that!"

"Neither am I, Angela, let's get to the shop. What time is Suzie arriving?"

"About one."

"Is she driving?"

"No, she's on a train. She stayed at a friend's in Edinburgh last night."

"What's been arranged for when she gets in?"

"I don't know."

"Well, find out. There's a hair appointment for both of you at three, if you want it."

"I might use my wig tonight, so no need to go to the salon."

"Come on, your wig needs some TLC and you don't have it with you right now. Take the appointment, even if you only have a quick tidy-up. Ask Suzie to come directly to the shop."

"I don't have her number."

"Angela! Phone your mum, get your sister's number and sort it out, pleeeeze!"

"Yes, boss."

They'd been stood in the street outside the shop for almost a minute whilst having this conversation and Sarah considered dragging the pair inside, out of the freezing air.

"Come on, I've put the kettle on but we open in ten minutes!"

That was an exaggeration, but not by much. Sarah unlocked the door a minute early, then just had time to turn the sign around before the first bunch of customers stepped into the shop. As they left, ten minutes later, the next few arrived, and so on.

"Tammy, I want to go to the bank, but where's Louise?"

"I don't know, officially she's finished working for me now that the criminals have been locked up, at least we think they have, but she's not leaving until tomorrow."

"I was hoping she'd go with me to deposit the takings, I can do it over the counter if we go before twelve."

"Is it ready?"

"No, give me ten minutes."

"Okay."

Angela was in the thick of it and starting to enjoy the retail experience. She'd now had enough practice with the till and the credit card device so that she didn't need to ask for technical help too often. When Tammy and Sarah were heading for the door, wearing coats, hats and gloves, she felt like complaining loudly but had two customers in front of her and couldn't risk losing the sale.

"We'll be back in ten minutes, Angela."

"Fine."

Sarah did not feel at risk, at least not as much, doing her banking at this time of day given the better light and the number of people out and about. Added to that, they could walk straight into the branch and not muck around with opening the chute to the night safe.

"Good morning Mrs Bonney."

"Hello, I'd like to make a deposit."

"Thank you. Would you like to book an appointment for a financial review?"

"What do you think, Tammy?"

Tammy had been stood out of the way whilst Sarah conducted her business with the bank clerk, although today the clerk was actually the assistant manager. Tammy moved forward and the asst manager showed a glimmer or recognition.

"Well, Sarah, I think you should take it, perhaps there's a better account available?"

"Nothing ventured, eh? Yes, I will have that appointment. I close on a Wednesday during January so that day is best."

"We don't normally do those appointments on a Wednesday."

"Well, I'm not closing the shop any other time to suit you - I'm the customer here, remember?"

"How about the fourteenth at ten?"

"That's fine, shame you can't be there Tammy?"

"I might be able, part of my business studies course, I'm using your shop as part of my coursework."

"I'd forgotten."

The assistant manager was uncomfortable with this development but knew better than to say anything, given Tammy's intervention on Sarah's behalf in mid November.

They'd actually been out of the shop for fifteen minutes by the time they returned and found the store temporarily empty apart from Angela and another girl.

"Tammy, Sarah, this is my sister Suzie."

"Hi Suzie!"

The similarity was striking, Tammy walked over.

"Angela's told me all about you, Tammy, you bully!"

"Me?"

"Don't worry, I never accepted anything my baby brother, I mean sister, ever said unless there were witnesses and signed statements."

"Good, I don't want my reputation going down the drain!"

"No fear, now what's this you've arranged for me?"

"Hair at three, my treat, nails and a visit to the torture chamber too if you're up for it?"

"I might take you up on it, but don't worry about paying for me, I'm not broke!"

"No, just my treat, as I said. Angela owes me for your party ticket though."

"How much?"

"Fifteen."

"I'll give that to you now."

The street door opened and they turned, expecting a customer, only to find Tanya."

"Tammy, mum's free if you want to come now, where's Louise?"

"Thanks, I'll be along in a mo. Louise has gone off so I doubt she'll be back in time."

"Right, are you Suzie? You can come along as well."

"Tammy, lunch?"

"We'll sort it out afterwards, do your own thing."

"Ok."

***

"That was fun, Tammy."

"Glad you enjoyed it, they're a bit of a mad bunch."

"I noticed, I tried to ask Joanne a few things but she wouldn't tell."

"She won't, I didn't even have to threaten her."

They were in the Castletown Hotel for a late lunch, Francis was just delivering their sandwiches. Tammy had figured that so long she was back at the shop by two she wouldn't be in trouble with Sarah and Angela's appointment wasn't until three in any case.

Suzie probed Tammy about herself but Tammy wasn't sure who was listening. The conversation then turned to Suzie's father, George Small.

"When did you move out?"

"Five years ago, when I was sixteen. I got a place at a residential sixth form school so took it. I've basically looked after myself ever since then, only seeing them when they were in Bexley."

"What are you doing now?"

"I'm worked for a firm of accountants for the past year but I've been offered a job somewhere else. I haven't been told exactly where or what I would be doing, however."

"Is it genuine?"

"Yes, I spoke to this lady called Jennifer who said I'd be perfect for her team. It's a specialist civil servant posting with all the training, I could start around Easter."

"Sounds interesting."

"That's what I thought."

"So you wouldn't consider moving back up here?"

"No, no way. What about you?"

"I don't know yet, my investments bring in some money but I still have to finish my A levels so I can look for a decent job."

"What are you doing?"

"Business Studies, Maths and English."

"Plenty of options if you get all three."

"If? If?!"

They talked on a bit more but reluctantly had to leave the warm hotel lounge and walk back to the shop. Sarah wasn't happy.

"Tammy, I could have done with your help and Angela thinks you've kidnapped her sister."

"Oh well!"

"Get behind here, Tanya's just been along too saying Angela can be done now. She had a boy with her."

"That would be John Hibbert, he was Riff in West Side Story at The Mill."

"I thought I recognised him. Anyway, I like your hair."

"I had my nails done too."

"Joanne?"

"No, didn't need anything done but I think Suzie will be walking awkwardly for a while."

***

Louise wasn't back by four and her mobile wasn't responding so Tammy asked her dad to pick them up. As it was, Joan turned up. The three way hug took some time to end, and each Small had a sob at some point.

Finally, close to five, Tammy was dropped off. There was a buffet at the party so she didn't want a meal, so just had a tuna mayo jacket before taking a shower, wearing a shower cap of course.

By seven she was dressed, wearing the same electric blue cocktail dress that she had worn on Christmas Eve. Several times Tammy had second thoughts and went back through her line of dresses to choose an alternative. Each time, however, she returned to the same frock knowing that she had to break out of the fear associated with it.

At seven fifteen she walked downstairs and found her father in the sitting room.

"Dad, have you heard from Louise?"

"Not yet."

"Damn, how are we supposed to get there?"

Richard thought about joking but realised this was ill-advised. "What time do you want to be there?"

"About eight fifteen."

"Right, we'll leave here in half an hour and swing past the cottage to collect the other two."

"Thanks, I'll let Angela and Suzie know."

Of course Joan answered the phone and explained that her youngest daughter was still wondering what to wear. Suzie had tried to help but had been told to go away, but not in those terms.

"Joan, I think we'll leave here at the time I said. If Angela's not ready then so be it."

"I agree."

***

Many groups seemed to be turning up at the same time, Sandy Smith's car was on just ahead of Tammy's ride.

"Hi Tanya, John, Debbie......"

Tammy walked straight over to her school friend John Hibbert and gave him an evocative kiss.

"Put him down Tammy, he's mine!"

"Hmmmmm. Hello to you too." John now had a smile on his face, and a lipstick mark on his cheek.

"Everyone, this is Suzie, Angela's big sister. Suzie, this is Tanya who you saw at the salon, Debbie her sister, John who's at school with me ..."

The introductions seemed to get longer as Tammy met up with more familiar, and many unfamiliar faces. She needed to retouch her lippie regularly given the number of kisses demanded. Suzie seemed to be a natural at this type of event and was regularly seen in distant parts of the room.

The main room had ambient music playing and would host the buffet a little later whereas the disco was pounding in an adjacent room. Tammy put her head into the disco but all she could see, apart from the flashing lights, was the sign over the decks.

Once or twice Tanya or Debbie's friends asked where Tammy had been for the Christmas Eve party, having recognised her from the shop's facebook photos. Rather than bring back those memories the girls spun a tale of a heavy period having caused her absence.

John, however, wouldn't accept the excuse.

"What really happened?"

"I was attacked by terrorists and had two kidnapping attempts against me, how was your Christmas?"

"Quiet, seriously?"

"John, darling, she is being serious. The Met Police even sent one of their senior counter terrorism officers up here to see Tammy."

"I never saw anything in the papers or online news. There was plenty of stuff about the flights though."

"John, please don't say anything to anyone, the police are still involved and I might become a target again, my bodyguard only finished working for me yesterday."

The girls started laughing, John didn't know whether this was truthful or not so let it go.

"Okay, Tammy. What about when we get back to school?"

"It all happened after school broke for the holiday so very few were around. I guess Dr McIntosh will have been informed and will make sure nothing leaks."

"Probably. Anyway, do you want a dance?"

As the pair, with Tanya's agreement, walked into the disco Tammy was grabbed and roughly spun around. Her eyes landed on Jeremy, the bank clerk.

"Leave me alone!" She had to shout over the music.

"You ruined my life!" Tammy guessed why she hadn't seen him since November.

John now intervened. "Leave her alone, I suggest you leave."

"I want my dance!"

"No, come on Tammy."

John took her hand and led Tammy from the disco back to their table in the other room. Jeremy followed and was looking first at the drinks he said anything. He was being observed from a distance.

When he did speak, Jeremy was loud, and drunk. "She ruined me, ruined my life. And now she won't accept a dance."

"Go home Jeremy."

"I want that dance, kiss and make-up?"

The girls around the table and the gathering crowd gave an audible response to that comment, one person pushed through the crowd.

"Sir, you're leaving. Good evening Miss Smart."

"Good evening Andrew, is it your disco?"

"Yes, my brother's looking after it right now. Sir, I understand your name is Jeremy, you have two choices: you can either leave quietly immediately or be removed to Thurso Police Station. Which will it be?"

"I ain't going anywhere."

"I rather hoped you'd say that, transport is already on its' way." Blue lights could be seen pulling up outside and two officers walked into the golf club.

"Good evening Sargent, he's drunk and disorderly, has upset Miss Smart and is refusing to leave."

"Thank you." Acting Sargent Stuart St James turned to Jeremy. "You do not have to say anything ......"

Tanya then realised something. "Did he do anything to our drinks?"

Everyone else shrugged then one of the onlookers said she thought she saw something happening, but was rather vague.

PS (acting) St James wasn't certain how to deal with this. A search of Jeremy's pockets however turned up a small phial of powder.

"Right, I'll assume that's a controlled substance so you are also under arrest for ....."

Andrew Fraser had been joined by his DJing part-time police Shinty-player brother Neale and were now organising moving everyone from the table having identified which drink was whose. Tape was brought from the police car to secure the crime scene. Chairs were then moved so the gang had somewhere to sit, finally fresh drinks were brought.

The crowd that had gathered now dispersed. Tammy had a question for her favourite double act.

"Andrew, Neale, who's looking after the disco?"

"I've put on a twenty minute remix of Donna Summer's I Feel Love. That'll keep them busy."

Suzie saw the way Tammy was handling this and didn't know what to say. She looked at Tanya and John who just shrugged. Tanya tried to summarise.

"In the short time I've known Tammy, that she's known herself even, she's been attacked several times, although I was the one grabbed in the theatre - by your father, Suzie."

"Mum only told me about that this evening."

"He wasn't the only one to try something at the theatre either. Anyway, what with two abduction attempts as well you might say she's a bit blasé about it."

"Tanya dearest, you said you would keep me up to date with everything happening in Thurso while I was down South."

"Darling John, I did, but you wouldn't have believed a word of it."

The music in the disco finally changed to something slower. John and Tanya went off to have a smooch, leaving Suzie and Tammy.

"Angela tried to tell me things but they sounded so ridiculous that I thought she was making it up."

"The thing is, it's other people's problems every time. I just end up as the focus."

Tammy's phone rang.

"Hi Dad."

"Is everything okay?"

"Mostly."

"Come on, tell me."

"Remember Jeremy?"

"The teller?"

"Yes, he was here; apparently he lost his job and blames me."

"What did he do?"

"Arrested for drunk & disorderly, grabbing me on the dance floor, refusing to leave and possibly spiking our drinks."

"I'm coming up there!"

"Not yet, we're having fun."

"Girls!"

Part Sixteen   Final Chapter     "Rest In Peace"

 
 
Sunday 4th January
 

Richard had collected Tammy and Suzie at midnight, taking both of them back to the house. Suzie had a room there for the next few days but was planning to spend as much time with her mother and new sister as was possible.

One concern for Tammy, and her father, were Louise's whereabouts. Tammy had been the last one to see her, at half past eight that morning. However, as the three of them were walking from Richard's car another vehicle swept into the driveway. It parked by the stables and the driver came towards them.

"Louise?"

"Hi Tammy, Richard. Can we go in?"

"Sure."

"Suzie, this is Louise, who was my bodyguard until recently."

"You weren't kidding about that either?"

"No, she was brought in because of one kidnapping attempt," Tammy swept her arm as they approached the front door, "here, then disarmed a Kosovan terrorist in the hotel bar a few days later."

They walked into the warm house, quickly closing the door behind. Louise dashed up the stairs to her room.

"Girls, I suggest you get changed. Tammy, I think you should come back down but Suzie it's up to you."

"Is there any hot chocolate on offer?"

"Would that make a difference?"

"Yes."

Leanne appeared from nowhere.

"Sir, Miss Smart, Miss Small, would you like anything to drink?"

"Thank you Leanne, two hot chocolates and a latte please."

"Certainly Sir, I'll serve in the sitting room."

"Thank you."

Suzie looked dumbfounded. "Is this for real?"

"Yes it is, Suzie, come on up and I'll show you your room. Did you bring a onesie?"

"I didn't have room for one in my bag."

"You can borrow one of mine, come to my room."

It was just gone half-past midnight when they gathered in the sitting room. The fire had been stoked and was pouring heat into the room. Louise was the last one to come back down and she didn't look good.

Tammy went to ask a question but was stopped by her father.

"Let Louise tell us in her own words."

Leanne had actually left three hot chocs for them, Louise was now hugging the third one, sipping occasionally. It was another few minutes before she started.

"I was going to Inverness today, I mean yesterday, my plan was to explore a bit more of the Highlands before I head south but I also figured I might be able to do some digging whilst I was there." She looked at Tammy who nodded understanding.

"Anyway, I hit a patch of ice on the way back, near Invergordon, and buckled one of the wheels. I had no signal for my phone so had to wait for someone to stop so I could get somewhere warm and use my phone."

"What was this digging?" Richard interjected.

"Yvonne Stewart had worked in Inverness and still has a flat there, I wanted to find out what she was like."

"I never authorised that."

"No, which is why I was doing it after my contract finished. I had promised Tammy I would see what I could find out."

"Which was?"

"That she seems to go from school to school with impeccable references but in reality each school just wants rid of her. Her reputation is that of a vindictive woman, she bears grudges for the long term. I was told she was a union representative at each school so had time off to attend meetings, which were often an overnight stay in Glasgow or Edinburgh."

"That sounds fairly normal."

"The rumour was that she was having affairs with union reps from other schools, particularly married ones. It appears that one of her earlier conquests started work at Dundee Academy for Girls in September which prompted her to look for another school. Apparently he had already split from his wife so had no problem threatening to expose her. Just before she worked her last day there she accused him of sexual harassment."

"Nasty."

"Quite, Tammy. Louise, how certain are you of this?"

"I spoke to his ex-wife and to one of the school office staff who's just retired from the school in Inverness."

"Dad, Sarah's daughter Emily, is going to be talking to friends who went to Dundee Academy for Girls next week, and Cathy wasn't too kind when she spoke to me before Christmas."

"Tammy, just because you are having problems with Yvonne doesn't mean you're entitled to dig into her background."

"Dad, she's been positively dismissive of me, despite that I haven't done anything to you. Did I tell you what happened in the shop last week?"

"I don't remember."

Louise intervened. "Richard, I was there. Yvonne said she did not want to be served by 'her'. All Tammy had done was to ask if she could help. That was beyond dismissive, it was plainly abusive and she was told to leave the shop."

"Dad, you really need to ask Joan what Yvonne has said to her."

"Mr Smart?"

"Suzie, I'm Richard."

"Okay Richard, but I remember Dad was a union rep in Bletchley before we moved up here. I don't know if he was involved here however."

"Okay, but please don't say anything to Angela and let me speak to your mum. Tammy, you're to keep quiet too in case there's really nothing here."

"Yes Dad."

"Okay, Louise, how come you're back so late?"

"It took ages for someone to stop and when they did it was the Police. They first took me back to Inverness and wanted to do a drugs test on me."

"Drugs?"

"They said they had information that I had drugs in my system."

"Information? From where?"

"They wouldn't say."

"Anyway that took ages and was, of course, negative. Then I had to call my insurance company as the police wouldn't let me do that first. Finally at ten I was delivered a courtesy car, my car will be collected this morning I think."

"Right, let's all get off to bed."

"Gladly. Good night all."

***

"Good morning Elsie."

"Well, good morning Tammy, did you not sleep well?"

"It was a late night, for several reasons."

"Are you going to introduce me?"

"Sorry Elsie, Suzie this is Elsie McPherson, the owner of this estate. Elsie, this is Suzie Small, Joan's daughter."

Once the greetings were done with they sat for breakfast. Richard and Louise it seemed had already eaten and were in the study.

"Elsie, I have been asked out to lunch by Sarah today."

"Oh, I was going to ask the Smalls here for lunch."

"Angela was invited by Sarah as well."

"But Suzie will have to return on Tuesday, won't you?"

"Yes Elsie."

"So, Tammy, sorry but you'll have to postpone your lunch date."

"I understand."

Tammy's phone pinged.

Tell Suzie she can join us for lunch at the Castletown. I'll pick you up at 1145. Sarah

Almost immediately after that the study door opened and her father walked into the dining room.

"Tammy, I'm taking Louise down to Inverness as there's something wrong with her car."

"Apart from one of the wheels being buckled?"

"Yes, let's just say that it's something suspicious."

"Oh."

"Elsie, we'll probably not be back before four so we'll get lunch out."

"Erm, Elsie, Sarah's just invited Suzie as well." She looked at Suzie who just shrugged, clearly out of her depth in this household.

"Right, my plan is scuppered. I'll have Thomas contact the hotel and book Joan and myself a table."

Tammy nodded, at least she didn't have to tell Sarah she and Angela couldn't make it. Her father and Louise went out the door and set off for Inverness. He had plainly not said much to Elsie and wouldn't unless he had definite, confirmed, information.

Tammy started heading for her room to shower and dress, she signalled to Suzie to follow.

"Let's go to my room, I guess you packed light?"

"Yes, I brought one dress and that was for the funeral but I figure I might need one for lunchtime today?"

"That's the Sunday protocol in the hotel, although no-one would actually say anything to your face."

"What do I do?"

"I reckon we're the same size, pick something off the rail."

"Thanks."

Tammy stripped to her knickers and bra, not worrying that a girl she barely knew was in her room, and walked into her bathroom for her shower. Five minutes later she was back, wearing a towel; Suzie was still there.

"Tammy, what's going on here?"

"What do you mean?"

"Elsie said Thomas would call the hotel?"

"Yes, he's the butler."

"Last night you called that girl Leanne."

"Yes, she's the chambermaid for my and Dad's rooms, plus any guests. Elsie has her own, Anna."

"I guess there's a cook as well?"

"Two, I think, plus a gamekeeper and a team of estate workers."

"She must be worth millions."

"I wouldn't like to hazard a guess. I know what I'm worth and I have a fair idea what dad's worth but I could, even there, be out by a factor of ten."

"So what are you worth, sorry, you don't have to answer that."

"Seeing as it looks like your security clearance is going to pretty good, I'll tell you but again it a guesstimate. I think it's around three to five million."

"Great, I am in make-believe land."

"Look, your mum's worth a bit too."

"But nowhere near that."

"True, anyway I'd like to get dressed and I suggest you hit the shower."

"Good idea, it might wake me up from this dream."

"Meet me in here for coffee when you're ready." Tammy went to her phone and called Thomas' alcove as Suzie left the room, leaving the chosen dress.

Tammy dressed in her undies and wrapped a light gown around herself before sitting on her bed to make a call.

"Angela, what happened to you last night?"
"I don't know, I don't know."
"You must know. Suzie enjoyed herself, despite the incident."
"I saw that."
"Where?"
"Facebook, someone took photos last night."
"Oh."
"Don't worry, you weren't in any of them."
"I don't want my name associated with trouble."
"Bit late for that, Tammy."
"Are you going to let us, I mean Sarah, down today?"
"Are you suggesting I'm unreliable?"
"No, but please don't break promises to be somewhere."
"I wouldn't have liked it."
"Why? Truth please."
"Suzie."
"What about her?"
"She has it all."
"Yes, she's also three years older than you and has seen rather more of the world."
"But she's a girl!"
"You noticed!"
"That's not what I meant."
"Get real, Angela, you've told me that you're a girl too."
"Yeah, but she's a real girl."
"And you're not? You're jealous aren't you?"
"Maybe."
"Don't be, she's lovely and she thinks alot of you, her baby sis."
"I'm not a baby."
"Okay, l'il sis."
"That's still not right."
"What are you expecting? She's older than you, that's all. You can be her equal if you drop this stupid jealousy and learn from her."
"I suppose so."
"That's better. Now find yourself a frock to wear and be ready at eleven thirty. That gives you an hour and a half, is that long enough?"
"Yes."
"Got to go, bye."
"Bye."

 
Tammy sighed, if Angela kept up this self-doubt then Tim could be back by Easter and that would destroy her. At least Angela was due to see Professor Roberts in a few weeks.

She sat at the dressing table and picked up her hairdryer. Her hair was now long enough to try different styles but today she just did a high pony tail. Tanya had offered to show her how to do a French plat but they hadn't had time together, maybe she could come up to the house next weekend?

By the time the coffee was delivered, Tammy was wearing a floral tea dress and sat putting on her make-up. Suzie came in as Leanne was leaving, Suzie had obviously found a gown.

"Shall I pour?" The coffee was in a large cafetière. "Pull up a chair."

They talked about Tammy's adventures, Suzie's work but eventually Tammy told her about the earlier conversation with Angela.

"Mum's told me how insecure Angela is."

"I don't think it's that simple, I mean Tim wasn't a strong character either but Angela does things Tim would never have tried."

"How much of that is down to our dad not being here?" Tammy was aware that Suzie still, rightly, had feelings for her father.

"That's true, but Tim was strong enough to tell your father, to his face, that he was gay - even if that wasn't completely correct."

"Mum told me about that, I must admit I found it funny that he had stood up to dad but when I heard about Angela I worried that he, she, would look like a boy in a frock. Sorry, I'm getting the pronouns mixed."

"Don't worry about that, it's all female now. We did have that perception problem when dad and I took Angela to London at the beginning of December but I took her shopping. That's when she gained the wig."

"And had someone arrested at the same time?"

"That one was fun at the time, but turns out to be serious enough that the counter terrorism squad are involved."

Suzie decided to change the subject.

"Are you looking forward to getting back to school?"

"For a bit of peace and quiet, yes, but I'm still worried about one person."

"I'm sure it'll work itself out. Anyway, I've decided I don't like that dress so I'll have to choose another."

She first went back to her room to collect her makeup, having decided to sit and talk to Tammy whilst she put it on.

They were finally ready by half eleven and met Elsie downstairs.

"Very nice, girls."

"Thank you, Elsie."

"Now, how are you getting down there?"

"Sarah's due here in fifteen minutes, then we'll collect Angela." She left off the 'if' question.

"That's too early for me otherwise I would have taken you there, I'll see you down there at one, Jonathon left five minutes ago to collect Joan and Angela, if she's ready." The two girls looked at each other and giggled.

"Quite." Elsie might have made the comment but wasn't intending a joke. "Anyway, if you'd like a lift back here afterwards then speak to me down there."

Joan and Angela arrived a few minutes later. Angela was in an aqua shift dress and didn't look comfortable.

"The zip is rubbing."

Joan sighed, "I told her to put a cami on."

"Angela, come on up and we'll sort it out."

"Yes, boss."

Elsie tutted, "young lady, Tammy is trying to help. There's no need to be insolent."

Angela put her head down. "Angela, we don't have time to mope, Suzie could you give me a hand?"

The three went back up, Tammy told Angela to drop the dress but she refused.

"Why?"

She looked around at her sister. Tammy laughed.

"Don't be a prude, I bet she's seen you naked loads of time and all we're asking now is to drop the dress so you can put a cami on. Grow up Angela."

"I can't reach the zip."

"Suzie, can you help?" Suzie had been careful not to laugh whilst this was going on otherwise all the effort Tammy was putting in would be lost.

Two minutes later Angela was dressed and checking herself in the full-length mirror.

"Better?"

"Yes, thank you, both of you."

They made it back down just as Sarah tooted outside. Suzie and Tammy were both wearing jackets, Angela had a cardigan and wasn't going to be warm enough. Tammy decided to let that one go, Suzie could offer some sisterly advice later.

***

Lunch passed without incident, for once. When Elsie and Joan arrived they were seated some distance from the Sarah and the three girls.

The talking took up more time than the eating so it was half past two by the time they were done. Sarah had ordered a bottle of wine and now, wisely, decided to leave her car in the carpark and take a taxi home. They were all standing when Elsie approached.

"Good afternoon Sarah."

"Hello Elsie, I wonder if you might be able to run these ladies home?"

"I would think so. Did you enjoy lunch?"

"Yes, but then I always do here."

"I must come to see you later in the week."

"I look forward to it."

Frances informed Sarah that her taxi was waiting so she left and Elsie instructed her brood to wait for Jonathon to pull up.

They arrived back at the house just after Richard and Louise. Richard asked Elsie to join him and Louise in the study as soon as she had her coat off. Suzie had been dropped off along with Joan and Angela at the cottage and would be brought over later.

Richard caught up with Tammy later, after she'd hung up her dress then slid into leggings and a simple top.

"It seems Louise's nearside front tyre was slashed, that's the cause of the accident. The garage spotted it and suggested the police were involved."

Louise continued, "it was the same officers who saw me last night, at least I had a better experience today."

"It seems the Smart name has reached Inverness as their tune changed when I explained who I was and why I was there, I also said I was Louise's employer."

"But, Dad, the contract's finished?"

"It's restarted but this time it's as an investigator not a bodyguard."

"Okay, but why was the tyre cut?"

"To be determined, but the police are going through the CCTV at the Rose Street multi-storey carpark."

"Is it connected to Yvonne?"

"We can't say that, it could be random malicious vandalism."

"That's vandalism that could have killed Louise."

"Yes, but there's nothing to say Louise was targeted. Anyway, be careful. Remember that we're back in Inverness tomorrow."

"I hadn't forgotten."

"Do you have something appropriate to wear?"

"Yes."

 
Monday 5th January
 

The atmosphere in the McPherson household was solemn as each of them prepared for departure. Suzie had been run over to the cottage once she was dressed so she could ride in the Limo. Jonathon, the gamekeeper, was driver for the day and had donned a chauffeur's uniform.

Riding in the Range Rover were Elsie, Richard, Tammy and Harry Davison, Chairman of the school's governing body. Harry's place would have been on the coach that was being run from the school but he complained of travel sickness if travelling by coach. In reality it was difficult to enjoy a tot from his hip-flask on the coach whereas Elsie turned a blind eye.

Tammy rode up front with Jonathon so the three adults, all school governors, could discuss matters. Tammy had brought headphones and her mp3 player so wouldn't have heard much anyway. She was in a black dress with a black jacket, barely black tights and black kitten-heeled court shoes. Elsie had leant her a hat but Tammy was still unsure if she should wear it.

Louise hadn't been seen since breakfast and Tammy thought better than to ask, given the current circumstances.

The Range Rover went first to the school and took its' place behind the hearse and limo, in front of the coach. Any other vehicles would travel independently and none more were known to be joining the convey.

They set off at nine fifteen for the two hour plus run to Inverness, where the Highlands Crematorium could be found, pulling into the carpark off Kilvean Road at eleven fifty. The service was scheduled for midday so the undertakers had everyone moving quickly.

The service was simple and quick with a humanist minister saying a few words. When the minister reached the part where she said "George leaves a loving wife and two daughters," there were shouts of "shame on you" from the back. Heads quickly turned to identify the protagonists but they appeared to have slipped out. The service concluded shortly after and the congregation filed out into the gardens.

Richard put himself next to Joan, to give her support with her daughters supporting each other. One or two tried to give their condolences to Suzie and ignore Angela but Suzie corrected them each time, "this is my sister Angela, I'm sure the condolences were meant for her too?"

There were many flowers and, as the congregation dispersed, were gathered by the undertakers for return to Thurso. Joan had asked that all the flowers went to the school, all bar a simple floral display her daughters had provided.

They left the crematorium at one and drove back to Thurso, to St Andrews School. Once they arrived they went to the hall where the Head, Dr McIntosh, made a speech, his words careful not to glorify the former teacher who had been under suspension when he took his life.

The wake commenced and polite conversation was heard around the room. Once or twice Tammy heard her's and Angela's names being mentioned but dismissed it. By six it was winding down and there were many inquisitive students looking into the hall.

Tammy walked with her father towards the waiting Range Rover for their short ride to the house. Tomorrow morning she'd be back here, with her exams a short five months away.