Newyear's resolution.

'Happy New Year!' rang joyously through the bar as Barbara offered her farewells to everybody at the party. It was 4a.m. And she was beginning to feel tired. Now in her seventies and deemed to be a long established patron of the bar where everybody knew her name, she had no need to give explanations for her seemingly early departure. They all bid her 'good luck' and 'happy new year' as she paused at the door and waved a brief goodbye. The party was still in full swing and music thumped from within as she stepped outside into the bitter cold. The sudden silence seemed strange as the heavy door swung shut behind her, then the fearfull moan of the wind replaced the party sounds as the bitter blast of cold air cut through her flimsy topcoat and the sleat chilled her face. She shivered as she dug out her keys and stepped cautiously towards her car.

“Jeeze it was cold!” She stuttered as she studied the icy pavement. It behoved her to take care. Now slightly unsteady on her partying heels because of her age, she took her time as she picked her way along the pavement towards her car. It was a good job she had turned up early at the bar to help prepare the food for this had ensured her a parking slot close to the bar-room door.

Finally, she made it along the treacherous icy pavement and fiddled with the key in the frozen lock until the door released and she gratefully settled into the driver's seat before starting the engine. It was several minutes before the car began to warm up and that gave her time to reflect on the past year as the demisters cleared the windows and the warm air slowly brought feeling to her feet. Finally it was safe enough to leave and she cautiously pulled out into the late-night / early-morning traffic bent on getting home.

To her annoyance the sleat now turned to snow and a light dusting was beginning to stick.. It did nothing to hamper her on the main tarmaced roads but she knew the journey would become tricky as she got closer to home. She lived in a remote canal-side cottageand negotiating the narrow lane down to the isolated canal basin would require great care especially where the winding lane was crossed by a couple of streams as it 'hair-pinned' down the side of the valley.

As she entered the lane she got her first warning as her car slid brifly sideways on an icy patch. Knowing that it would get worse further down the lane, she realised it was going to be too dangerous to try and negotiate in the dark especially as the patchy snow hid several worse spots further down the lane where the flooding streams sometimes froze all the way across the hairpins. At the bottom, the lane got steeper with progressively sharper hairpins and she knew the lane well enough not to risk going much further with an ordinary two-wheeled-drive city car.

“I should have used the landrover,” she told herself as she pulled over into the only suitable 'passing place' and dug out some suitable footwear, an extra coat and her re-chargeable flashlight.
Thus equipped she set off cautiously down the lane.

Living as she did in the only remaining lock-keeper's cottage beyond the canal basin, she was fully cognocent of the dangers associated with the slippery lane and living in isolation. She now faced a half-mile trudge in the freezing dark.but she felt confident for she knew the lane well. With the flashlight beam illuminating her way, she picked her way carefully then, after a few steps she noticed, in a slightly deeper patch of snow, that a car had recently gone down the lane earlier that evening.
It would have been quite recent because it had only started snowing in the last hour or so. This meant that somebody was visiting the canal basin, possibly one of the boat-owners. She half expected to find some sort of party on one of the boats and sighed to herself.

'It looks as though it was going to be a noisy night.' she told herself as she trudged along the lane while the snow now blew in thicker flurries around her.

“Ah well, at least I can close my cottage door and ignore it.” She mused, for the cottage was beside the lock that was several hundred yards from the canal basin.

She continued picking her way down the lane taking note of the icy patches until she came to the canal tow path and she studied the moored boats in the basin. There seemed to be no sign of life and certainly no sign of the car that had obviously passed down the lane earlier. She shrugged for it was possible that the car had gone past the basin towards some boats moored further around the bend. She did not bother to go looking for the car because the cold was beginning to bite now and she was keen to reach the warmth of her cottage. She had left the heating on and the the prospect of her warm kitchen was inviting.

Shrugging her shoulders, she turned and trudged carefully along the slippery towpath until she reached her cottage.. Grateful to get inside, she removed her heavy coat, tugged off her wellingtons, put her torch on charge then made for the kitchen. As she switched on the kettle a famiiar feline shape stirred from the armchair beside the coal-burning aga stove. She smiled as the shape stretched and sat up.

“Hello Carbon, I knew you'd be in the warm, where's Amber and Crystal?”

Carbon simply stared at the cat-basket as though to say. 'I don't know, they're not in their usual place.' However, Barbara knew where else to look and a bedroom visit soon revealed the pair curled up on the bed having turned her nighty into a nest.

“Get off there you little monsters' she smiled affectionately as she recalled she had not closed the bedroom door.

The feline pair scurried down the steep cottage stairs and took station beside Carbon with all three looking up expectantly. She wagged her head and dug out some catfood as the kettle began to sing. Within minutes she was sat warm and comfortable in her favourite chair beside the Aga while the cats picked delicately at the unexpected early morning feast. Finally, she sighed contentedly, closed the kichen door and made her way to bed.

Her bedroom window faced away from the canal towards the winding lane. She had chosen the back bedroom to avoid all the clamour of canal boaters operating the locks in the boating season and it also meant that nobody could peep into her most private bedroom because the rear of the cottage was walled off from the towpath. In the summer, she could sit out in the little walled garden invisible to hikers, cyclists and boat owners. For a retired lady it was an idyllic location except for the remoteness.

That night, as she closed her curtains, she heard and saw a car, probably the same car, pick it's way up the slippery lane as it returned to the main road.. Her binoculars told her it was a four-by-four and she watched as it slowed down several times as though the driver was contemplating each icy, hairpin bend.

Then, on the fourth hairpin, she saw the driver, stop and and pull out some sort of large package or bundle in a plastic rubbish bag. It was heavy and he was forced to drag it to the steep edge of the hairpin and toss it into the steep sided gully before driving off again.

She cursed the driver for his littering and tried to make out the number plate but it was too far and the vehicled was now blocked out by the trees. She did however recognise the make, it was a short wheelbase Shogun, either Navy Blue or Black.

“Bugger!” She cursed as she looked at the large dirty rubbish bag that had slid down the slope and lodged against one of the trees that had fallen into the gully earlier that winter..

The littering had so incensed her that she stood staring at it for several minutes while she fumed impotently. Then to her astonishment, a tiny light appeared from the side of the bag and flickered feebly between the tree trunks.

Her curiosity turned to a frown as the flickering light started to sway from side to side.

“Bloody hell!” She gasped as she tried to make sense of the situation.

The only sensible and plausible explanation was that the light somehow belonged to somebody who was stuck inside the bag. And that mean't that they must have been dumped there by the Shogun owner. The drop into the gully was a good fifteen feet with a steep slope preceding it. All in all the bundle had rolled about fifty feet down the slope before fetching up against the tree trunks. It was in a precarious position and could fall into the gully.

Adrenaline now took over as the dawning realisation came to her that somebody in that bag was still alive.

Her first thought was to somehow reassure whomsoever it was that help was on the way. She returned to her back porch where she had only recently hung up her divested coat and wellingtons. There she found not only the car flash-light but also the powerful 1000 candla super light that she kept for general household duties. This big light had a pistol grip and could run directly off the re-chargeable batteries or from the mains adapter. She tested it and dazzled herself momentarily before putting on her heavy canvas work trousers, leather work boots and quilted work jacket.

She decided to take both lights in case she needed a 'flood-light'. Thus equipped, she stepped out of the back door and aimed the super-light towards the dark gully where she quickly picked up the black bag in the powerful beam. The flickering light was no longer visible so she grabbed a coil of rope and trotted as fast as her septugenarian legs could carry her.

As she hurried towards the bend in the lane, she flashed her light at every possible source of human existance in the vague hope of disturbing somebody, but all was silent in the canal basin for nobody in there right mind would venture to such a remote spot on a frozen New Years morning. As she panned the powerful light around she noticed that ice had started to form on the water. Nobody was stirring.

Eventually, she reached the gully and wedged the large lamp in the fork of a tree pointing down into the gully where the bag lay crumpled against the logs. Next she tied the rope to a branch and cautiously abseiled as best she could remember from the long distant memories of her youth. Eventually, she arrived at the plastic bag and realised it was several heavy duty builder's bags taped together to completely enshroud the person inside.

As she approached she called through her clenched teeth for she had the small torch hand-loop in her jaws. There was no response at first until she finally reached the bag and got herself on a firm fooring. With, ice, wet leaves, snow, mud and rushing water, the gully was a treacherous place. She located the hole where the bag's were poorly taped together and the occupant had used to wave her mobile phone. The phone now lay useless in the rushing stream below the bag. She reached in and a cold hand responded weakly. The reaction sent a wave of relief through the older woman as she realised that the victim, whoever it was, seemed to be still alive.

“Just hold on, we'll get you out of here,” she said as she tried to reassure the victim.

“Mmmph, mmmph, mmmph,” came the response.

The old woman groped in the stream for a sharp stone for she had forgotten to bring a knife. Eventually, her numbed fingers located a fairly sharp stone and she despearately commenced slicing and cutting at the tough rubble bags. Soon she had an arm and shoulder free only to discover that the victim had been bound by the same 'gaffer-tape' as that around the bag. Fortunately, the sharp stone made short work of the bindings and soon the victim was free of the bag.

She was flimsily clad in a skimpy cocktail dress and little else so it behoved her rescuer to get her to the cottage as soon as. The victims muffled cries obviated the next task and finally her rescuer cut carefully at the tape covering the mouth .

The girl let out a strangled gasp of relief before sobbing out 'Thank you! Who are you?'

-“That's my prerogative young lady. Who are you?”

“I'm Lola, the bastard tried to kill me, I- I'm freezing.”

“Yes, I understand that Lola. My names Barbara. Now, can you use your legs?”

The girl cautiously reached down and frowned.

“I can hardly feel them, they're so cold.”

“Never mind that, can you move them?”

The girl cautiously tried to move one leg and nodded when it responded. Barbara wasted no more time in chat. She retied herself and the girl to the rope and immediately started the ascent up the slippery slope above the gully. Fortunately the girl was able to help with tugging on the rope.

They evntually reached the top where the girl slumped from emotional stress. Her feet were bleeding badly but Barbara had no time for sympathy. She was beginning to feel the chill herself and needed the warmth of the cottage pronto. She hoisted the reluctant Lola to her feet and part carried, part bullied the girl to the cottage. The effort left her exhausted and she left Lola sitting in the kitchen armchair while she turned up the AGA and dug out some thick blankets from the airing cupboard.

“Get those clothes off and wrap yourself in these. I've got a warm wincyette pair of onesies if you want.”

Lola's eyes widened with concern then she nodded nervously while still shivering.

“Y – yes p- p- please.”

Barbara trudged off to the airing cupboard and returned just as the now naked Lola was stepping out of her pants.

“Here you are love I-.” Barbara froze. . “Oh! Sorry darling.”

She turned away, placed the onesies on the kitchen table and returned to the hall while closed the door before calling out.

“Put them on love, then we'll have a cup of tea.”

She hear the girl whimpering nervously and presuumed the scraped chair was a consequence of her urgent attempts to dress quickly.. Barbara paused for a couple of minutes then knocked gently.

“Are you decent love?”

A short, clipped nervous 'Yes' was the reply followed by silence.

Once again Barbara paused before knocking again and declaring.

“I need to get in the kitchen to make the tea love. If your frightened, wait in the back porch, but I promise you there's no need to be.”

The door to the hall edged open and frightened eyes peered through. Barbara smiled her softest smile and repeated.

“There's absolutely no need to be afraid. I understand your problem.”

“Do you?” Lola croaked.

“Yes. You may not realise it love but we're sisters. I'm just a lot further along life's highway.”

“What d'you mean?”

“I'm post-op love.”

Lola almost squealed with uncertain relief.

“What?”

“I'm post op darling. I have been for many years.”

Lola squinted disbelievingly.

“How long?”

“I'm seventy eight now darling. I had the op when I was twenty nine. That's forty nine years ago.”

Lola fell silent and Barbara took the opportunity to finish making the tea. She firstly laid out her tea set on the kitchen table then also produced some fruit cake from her larder and set it out neatly on her pretty matching tea plates with the deep pink rosebuds. The display caught Lola's eye as she hastily devoured the cake..

“These are nice.”

“Thank you darling, I must confess I rather like fuschia. D'you want another piece of cake?”

Lola had already finished the first piece and Barbara had caught her eyeing the delicious cake hungrily.

“Please?”

Barbara cut another extra thick wedge and passed it across as she noticed the gratitude in Lola's eyes. Having earned the girl's gratitude Barbara decided to push her suit slightly.

“I couldn't help noticing just then, would you care to tell me who gave you those bruises?”

“Is that all you noticed?”

“No darling but the other thing is not for me to ask about unless you want to talk. My being transgendered does not give me any sort of special licence to pry.”

Nevertheless, transgenderism had inadvertently become the 'elephant-in-the-room' and Lola was curious to know what it was like all those years ago.

“That bastard who dumped me. When he discovered thi- this,” - she passed her hand vaguly across her tummy, “he went beserk.”

Barbara nodded knowingly but did not comment. It was best to let Lola talk

“I'm sure you can guess the rest.” Lola almost spat the words out.

Barbara nodded again before comfirming, “same old, same old.”

“I suppose it happened to you then.”

“Yes girl, many times, but never my fault. I was very attractive when I was young and they came onto me. I always made it quite clear that I was not interested but they always tried to push their suit. Men were like that back in those days. They presumed that any woman on her own was some sort of public property to be used and abused. They would try to force themselves upon me and then, if they discovered what they weren't expecting, the shit would hit the fan.

Of course, in those days it was always my fault. 'Behaviour likely to cause a breach of the peace!' that was usually the charge.' There was no defence back then. Trangenderism was not 'being', it was 'doing' and my having a cock; well, that was considered a deliberate act of provocation.”

Lola nodded thoughtfully as she noted the world-weary irony.

“There's no way around it is there? It's pretty much the same today.”

Barbara shrugged wryly.

“Well, men's behaviour hasn't changed much but at least the law has changed. It's supposed to protect us and I must confess it's come a long way.”

“Huh not far e-bloody-nough I find,” Lola cursed.”

“From where your standing perhaps not, but from my perspective it's moved light years.”

“Were there many like you? Back then.” Lola wondered.

“Not outwardly. From when I came out until I was fifty or I think I knew about half a dozen. Then things started to get a bit easier. How many trans friends do you have.

“Two, but I'm only fifteen.” Lola confessed.

“Good God, aren't you still in school?”

“No.”

“You should be shouldn't you, school leaving is sixteen now isn't it?”

“Yeah, and -.”

“And what?” Barbara wondered aloud.

“I've only just come out just before Christmas. If I was at school today, I'd be leaving alright, but probably in a coffin.”

“That's a bit strong love, you might not have to go to school. What about home tutoring?”

“Ha. Don' make me laugh! Those two – Dan-and-Doris, couldn't educate a circus puppy. They were a pair of religious wierdo's As far as I'm concerned, home is where the hurt is!” She snapped.

Babara caught the gist and replied.

“As opposed to where the heart is.”

“Exactly.”

“So are you still living at home?”

“Not any more thank God, not since Christmas day.”

“So where have you been living for the past few days?”

“Sofa surfing. I thought I had one good friend until she fixed me up with the arsehole who did this to me.”

Lola unzipped the top of her onesie to expose the bruised ribs. Barbara nodded thoughtfully.

“I don't suppose your friend realised that your abuser was transphobic.”

“Maybe not, but she did know him well so how can I trust her judgement again?”

“Well that's for the future. The big issue is what to do now. D'you want me to call the police now or in the morning?”

“I can't face the police just now, besides they'll only call my foster parents.”

“Oh, so they're not your real parents.”

“Na-ah. They went off the scene years ago. Can't even remember them. My biological father disappeared before I was born and my Mother got shot me of within twelve months. She was a total waste of fucking space as a mother anyway for she came from a broken home and didn't know who her father was either. Two generations of losers, that's me.

Barbara recognised the familiar story but pressed a bit harder; though not too hard.

“And I suppose these aren't the first foster parents you've had?”

“Got it in one girl. One long string of parental failures cos of my girly stuff.”

“Child of the system.” Barbara closed the subject.

Lola's expression darkened as she nodded.

“Well much as I'd like to help, technically you're still a missing child. I'd be in deep shit if didn't inform social services.”

“Well just let it lie for a couple of days then maybe.”

Barbara wagged her head.

“Sorry. No can do. Your best bet is the police. It protects me and strengthens our hand if you really want to stay here. It's very pleasant from Spring to Autumn.

“I said, I don't want the police involved, well not yet. As I said, they'll only inform my foster parents and they'll want me back because they get paid a lot in fostering fees from the social. I'd be back in there clutches toot-sweet!”

“Not necessarily. The police are more alert to things these days, they take account of your feelings, but they will still have to alert social services if you're only fifteen.”

“And what then, stick me in some poxy hostel or children's home.”

“Better that than living on the street girl. But for now, I think a warm bed is the best solution if you don't want to call the police.”

“I think I'd prefer to wait until the morning. There's no hurry, my friend knows who my abuser is.”

“Okay then, if you're adamant, I can help you a bit for now. I've got two spare rooms but only one bathroom. You could stay here but Social services will have to be told. Once they know you're safe and warm, they'll possibly acede to your staying here, if you wish. Nothing certain mind and you'll still have to be quite clear about your feelings.”

“What about the – you know, the trans thing.”

“You're fifteen, that means you'll have a lot of say about what they do with you. Believe it or not, being trans can actually work for you with social services. All those tales you hear in The Sun about social services and lesbian parents is a load of bollocks. Where would you prefer; the street, some sort of hostel, your foster parent's home; your friends sofa or a bed here with somebody who at leasts understands and is sympathetic?”

“When you put it like that there's no contest. Can I have another piece of that fruitcake please?”

“Of course, d'you want more tea?”

“Yes please.”

Barbara watched as the girl wolfed down the cake then realised the girl must be starving.”

“D'you want a cooked breakfast?”

Lola looked up spologetically. She was slightly embarrassed for appearing so greedy.

“Can I? Is it too much to ask?”

Barbara glanced at the timer on her microwave.

“It's nearly six o'clock. You might as well eat breakfast now.”

“Have you been to bed yet?”

Having been reminded of bed, Barbara could not help yawning.

“Aaaww, no not yet anyway. I was clubbing 'til four this morning. Once I've made you something I'll be catching some shut eye.“

“There's no need. I can eat later, when you get up.”

“Oh don't worry. I'm a dreadful sleeper. There's no knowing when I'll wake.”

So saying Barbara soon had breakfast on the go and Lola couldn't resist the aroma of eggs and bacon..

“It's not the full English love but it'll fill a corner. You can top up with toast and Jam.”

“This is more than enough. How can I thank you?”

“By doing the right thing later, and telling the police.”

“Don't worry, I intend to.”

“Good. But bed for now. You can have a shower first. There's plenty of hot water.”

“Thanks.”

It was seven o'clock before Lola was in bed and she hugged herself as she heard Barbara doing her own ablutions. She called out as she heard Barbara crossing the landing.

“Good night, and thanks for everything!”

“Good morning more like kid, but keep the bedroom door closed or you're likely to get a visit from the cats.”

With that both of them were soon asleep.

As the dawn finally won the tussle between light and dark Barbara heard a yelp from the spare bedroom.

“Ow-ouch! What the fuck -! Why you little monster!”

“What's up.” Barbara called, already suspecting the answer.

“The black cat just stuck a claw in my toe!”

“How did he get in?”

“I must have failed to close the bedroom door when I went to the loo earlier.”

“That's just his way of wishing you a good-morning.”

“What time is it?”

“Nine-ish. Has he drawn blood?”

“Yes. The little monster has!”

Barbara chuckled. Lola was not the first guest to have fallen foul of Carbon's 'good-mornings'.

“Come here, I've got some plasters in my bedside table.”

Lola hopped across the landing to avoid getting blood on the pale carpets then plopped down on Barbara's bed to extend her injured toe for inspection.

“Oh it's just a scratch, he's done worse.”

Lola grinned as Barbara stretched the plaster across the injured toe and explained further.

“It mean's he likes you and if he likes you, then you can become one of the family.”

“Ha, don't talk to me of families

Barbara fell silent. She'd find out more about Lola when the police and the Social Services arrived. Lola stood up and looked through the rear window of Barbara's bedroom.

“It's pretty here what with the woods and the lane and stuff.”

“Just take a look out of your own bedroom window. The view's far better.”

Lola followed Barbara's suggestion and gave a squeak of pleasure when she pulled back the curtain of her front facing bedroom.

“Wow! You can see right across the estuary! Is that the lock?”

“Yes. It allows entry into the tidal reaches. There's quite a permanent community of canal boaters further up the Canal but in the basin it's mostly just second homers. Take a peek through the side window on the landing, you can see all the way past the basin.”

Lola padded down the landing as directed and exclaimed excitedly.

“Gosh, you're right! Oh! There's a heron! Are there a lot of people living on boats here?”

“About twenty I think. I know most of them.”

“Like a little village then.”

“Yes. Now d'you want me to phone the police or social services?”

Lola hesitated uncertainly.

“Which is best?”

“The police, you were assaulted and kidnapped, remember.”

“Okay. I suppose so. Best get it over with.”

Barbara frowned as her gaze narrowed.

“Are you hiding something girl? Most girls would be hell-bent on retribution.”

“Na-ah. I'm just nervous. I don' want to end up in another bloody hostel.”

“Well we'll ask for a social worker to attend as well. They invariably get involved if there's a 'juvenile runaway' situation. I hope they'll be agreeable for you to live with me in the short term. Places for kids from care are always at a premium. I suppose if a kid's trangendered then that makes it doubly hard for the social.”

“Try and convince them.” Lola pleaded. “I can't face another bloody hostel.”

Barbara nodded sympathetically as she dialed her mobile.

“Hello-. Yes, I've got a runaway from foster care here, she want's to speak to the police.”

She handed the phone to Lola who hurriedly explained. Then she handed the phone back to Barbara who explained the circumstances. Then she turned to Lola again.

“They're happy for me to take you to the station. There'll be a social worker when we get there.”

“Am I doing the right thing/” Lola asked. “Please make sure I can stay here. At least you understand.”

“ Can't guarantee it girl but I'll try my hardest.”

With these words, they dressed and took the landrover into town because the lane was now treacherous. Lola looked provocative in her short cocktail dress but Bab's had nothing alternative in Lola's size. Fortunately, she had some panties still in their cellophane; not a perfect fit but at least clean and new.

At the police station they were ushered into separate interview rooms. Two hours later barbara's interview was complete but Lola's took much longer because of the criminal assault and the medical exam. It was three o'clock when the pair met again in the police canteen. There Barbara met the social worker who had sat in on Lola's interview. She wasted no time in determining Lola's fate.

“So what's the plan?” Barbara asked.

The social worker hesitated and thus sending a shiver of uncertain fear down Lola's spine. Finally she spoke.

“Lola has asked if she can live with you. We might acede to that because she's fifteen but we'll have to do CRB checks. Do you have any objections?”

“I'll have to agree to it but I have to warn you. I have a record of arrests as long as your arm.”

The social worker's face darkened with uncertainty.

“What for?”

“Oh all the usuall stuff that used to be laid against us tee-girls all those years ago, you know; behaviour likely to, disturbing the peace, indecent exposure and so on.”

“When was the last arrest?”

“About twenty years ago. They'll have records of them here in Bristol and in Birmingham Police HQ.”

“How long have you lived at your current address, - the lock-keeper's cottage.”

“Uuhhm, would you believe forty years?”

The social worker's eyebrows raised with slight surprise.

“Is it your own house?”

“Yes.”

“How did you come by it?”

“I don't see what that has to do with anything but if you must know, through a lot of hard work and lonliness.”

“How d'you mean?”

“I may have been arrested and detained now and then, but most of the time, I was out of the country – working – at sea would you believe?”

“What company?”

Barbara listed a couple of foreign shipping companies.

“How did you do that? As a woman I mean?”

“I kept my surgery a secret. I had it done in Thailand when I was in my late twenties but I didn't declare it to the British authorities until I was over forty. Even then, I did not reveal it to my foreign employers. I passed for a man, despite my surgery and my breasts were quite small so they were easy to hide.

Provided I had a Liberian Licence, I was employable as a master. It worked. When On leave I was Barbara, when working abroad, I was William – or 'Bill' for short. Then the initials and siganature where the same.”

The social worker shook her head and frowned.

“And nobody ever found out. What about doctors, medicals, that sort of stuff?”

“No questions are asked on Liberian ships, that's what flags of convenience are all about. If you can stand up and spit five feet, you'll do. No names, no pack drill.”

“So what about an income? - Now I mean”

“I've got a good pension. That's one good thing about the British merchant navy pension scheme back then. You could work on some foreign ships and if the company was prepared to keep back some of your wages and pay it into the scheme as contributions, then you accumulated a pension, and a very good one at that. I live quite well thank you.”

The social worker pulled a surprised face.

“Could you support Lola, as a foster child?”

“Of course I could, and house her comfortably.”

“Well there would be fostering allowances for her as well.”

“I wasn't looking for them. Besides, when she's sixteen, wouldn't those cease?”

“No, not if she continues at school and if she goes to college as well.”

“That's up to Lola.”

The social worked glanced questioningly at Lola.

“How are you doing academically?”

“So, so. Well as can be expected I suppose.”

“Meaning?”

“School has alway's been shit. Bullying, teasing, abuse, assault. Know what I mean?”

The social worker nodded thoughtfully. She had heard before about transgendered suicides, often in part caused by school bullying.

“Do you really want to live with Barbara?”

“Yes! Definitely! Anything's better than Dan and Doris!”

“Well they were sincere and well meaning. The last foster-child they had was gay and that worked out. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. So, Barbara, I think we can look past all those arrests, things have moved on and I can oly apologise for what went before. We cerainly don't hold that sort of stuff against the victims back then, for that's what they were.”

“Amen to that,” Barbara agreed.

Even as Barbara finished, the social worker was on her phone to her boss. Barbara listened to the onesided conversation.

“Yes. I think so. Yes. Yes. It's that cottage by the river lock. I often wondered who lived there. It's an idyllic setting. Yes, Lola's keen, it gives her space and privacy. Yes. Yes. No.”

Barbara wondered what the 'no' answered to but didn't ask. The yesses seemed to far outnumber the no's and she hoped that they were positive markers. Eventually the social worker looked up and explained.

“We are required by law to check the house, do you have any objections?”

“When?” Was Barbara's only question.

“Well, this afternoon if possible, before dark. My line manager is on his way there now. Shall we go?”

“We'd better hurry. My land-rover is not the fastest horse in the race.”

With a brief word to the station sergeant they set off post-haste At the top of the lane they met the social services departmental head and decided to make the descent by land-rover. Soon they were in the cottage where Carbon, Amber and Crystal endeared themselves to the lady social worker as they examined the circumstances.

“Which will be Lola's bedroom?” The man asked.

“Either of those two. I have the one at the back of the cottage because it's quieter when the canal is busy.”

He nodded agreeably.

“Well, I cant see any serious obstacles. If you are prepared to accept her now, we can sort out the CRB checks ASAP. Do you have any clothes Lola?”

“Some,” Lola replied. “They're in my back-pack at my friends flat.”

“Sofa surfing were you?” The lady asked.

Lola nodded ruefully as the man added.

“We'll escort you there if you wish. I suspect the police will be interviewing your friend even as we speak.”

“Will she be in trouble?” Lola asked.

“Shouldn't think so. Unless she knew of any previous stuff.”

After a further inspection and a satisfactory conclusion, Barbara drove them up the lane and everybody drove in convoy to Lola's friend's flat. There were two police cars and four officers already present. Inside, Lola's friend had been crying and a lady police officer was consolling her while another was talking on her phone.

“They've got him. He says he was shocked and yet relieved when he learned Lola was alive.”

“That still doesn't excuse his actions!” Lola protested.

“Indeed it doesn't miss.” The inspector concurred. “We are bringing him in now.”

“Good!” Lola replied angrily. “Throw the bloody book at him!”

“That's my cousin you're talking about!” her friend sobbed.

“Well why didn't you tell him I was pre-op.”

“Did he know youre under sixteen Miss?” The inspector pressed.

Lola hesitated before replying in a small voice.

“Uuhm, no.”

“And I gather your circumstances were not known to him?”

“What's that got to do with it?” Lola argued.

“These days young lady, most transsexuals know enough to tell a man if they intend to become intimate.” The inspector replied.

“Well I didn't know that. It was my first time.”

“And nearly your last young lady. I can assure the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on your assailant but I hesitate to say this, let it be a lesson to you. You were lucky. Irrespective of any gender issues, no girl should just go off with a stranger to a remote place without knowing the individual properly.”

Lola smirked dismmissively.

“Huh. I'll be going off with a seventy year old stranger tonight and sleeping in her cottage.”

The inspector bristled – rightfully.

“Listen young lady. This is no bloody joke! That same elderly lady risked her own injuries to save your life, then she informed the police and behaved with impeccable sobriety. The social workers have moved heaven and earth to see you properly placed, your friend is devastated by developments and my officers have been running around all over the place to find your assailant. I suggest that you reflect seriously on what's happened! Now, I and my officers are finished here. I suggest you thank the social workers and go home with this lady to start the rest of your life.”

Lola fell silent while Barbara sidled into the kichen to find the makings for a cup of tea. She returned to Find Lola hugging her still tearful friend while the social workers were preparing to leave. It was six p.m.
On the journey back to the lock-keeper's cottage Lola slowly opened up. Apologetically at first then to show gratitude.

“I'm sorry Barbara – for all the trouble.”

“Don't worry too much kid. You made a stupid mistake; we've all made those.”

“Are you angry?”

“Not really, just glad you're okay; but the inspector was right, learn from this.”

Lola nodded as she turned curiously.

“Where are we going?”

Barbara nodded towards a large neon sign as they turned a corner.

“Too the supermarket kid. I'll need to double up on all the food I've got in the house. If it snows heavily, I can be stuck down there for several days, even with the land-rover.”

“Is it that bad then?”

“It can be. I was once stuck down in the cottage for over a week even with the land-rover available. Fortunately I had just enough food to get by but it was a boring diet. I won't get caught like that again. Go and get two trollies.”

An hour later they were filling the land-rover and back on the road. It had started to snow again.

“Will we get down the lane Babs?” Lola wondered aloud.

“Should do, but we might not drive back up again if it gets too deep. It's okay though. The other car is still parked at the top and we can always walk up if the land-rover cant make it.”

“But we won't need to with all this food.”

“Exactly, “ Barbara confirmed.

After a few minutes silence, Lola began to wonder about Barbara's history. The idea of a transexual in her seventees piqued her interest.

“Where were you born Babs?”

“Oooh hell, that was a long ways back babes. A small town in North Wales, called Ruthin.”

“When did you know.”

“Sometime between four and five. First year at infant school. I preferred playing with the girls, you know, all the usual markers, playing with dollies, playing house, skipping games, you name it, William did it”

“Yeah William. I shortened it to Bill and Bill it remained whenever I had to use a male persona.”

“And then?”

“Oh, you know, long years of being denied access to my female side. Punishments at school, especially High School; attacks by jocks. Some I won, most I lost. Finally I escaped from school as soon as I turned fifteen and then a series of jobs until I got a job on a ship. That opened up a whole new world, - the whole world in fact. It gave me a lot of privacy when I was off duty in my own little cabin, my own little domain. Finally, I saved enough money to have the 'op' in Thailand and I more or less lived out east for ten years. I crawled up the hawse-pipe to become an old man, captain that is, you understand? I passed my Mate's ticket in Calcutta, India and my Masters ticket in Sydney, Australia.”

“Gosh, you've been around haven't you? Did you ever find a partner?”

“Sadly no. Strangely I was attracted to girls, not boys. I know that sound's daft for a transsexual but it's true. Boys never interested me. They were always too bossy, too pushy, too demanding. I only liked girls.”

“D'you mind if I ask something?”

“Go on. I'm too old for secrets; or more correctly, I don't care to have any.”

“I hope you don't mind my asking but have you ever slept with anybody?”

“Never any boys. I don't like being 'the bottom'. I slept with a few girls, about four or five I suppose, all when I was in my early twenties. I lost interest about aged twenty seven and had the op at twenty nine. After that, no more sex, no more problems.”

“Do you miss it? The actual sex that is.”

“No. I can masturbate, female style.. It takes a lot of concentration and a mains type 'wand' but eventually I achieve an orgasm, female style that is. Thai surgeons are the best and they were the first to pioneer converting the 'glans' into a clitoris. I was one of their earliest successes. I've kept my vagina open with dilating but I've only ever used it once or twice and that was a lesbian with a dildo.As I've said, I've no time for boys.”

“Would you mind if I ever brought a boy back to my room?”

“Provided you're over sixteen, no. And I suggest you take that Inspecor's advice to heart. Let there be no illusions and tell the boy first that you are transgendered.”

“Yeah, that's the truth.”

There followed a brief contemplative silence before Lola asked again.

“If you like girls, why didn't you settle down with one? Maybe some nice thai girl?”

“Now you've struck a chord there. There was a girl I thought was good for the long haul but things didn't work out. She seemed okay about it but her family were a load of arseholes. She was from Hull, and I met her in Newcastle.”
“What happened.”

“Well we were together for about six months and I told her early on about my gender issues. She seemed to accept them and at first her family seemed okay then she got pregnant by me; yes that's right I functioned properly as a male, at least down there.”

“And?”

“Well when the family found out, they concluded in their twisted minds, that the baby would be born a freak. You know, a hermaphrodite or something; anyway, the upshot was they persuaded the girl to have an abortion. She refused but apparently, the baby was adopted. I suppose I have a baby out there if he or she survived. She'd be in her late forties. Anyway. We lost touch through no fault of ours. Her family made sure we never got together again.”
“Do you ever wonder?”

“Sometimes, but it's spilt milk now. I'm down here in the south and the last thing I heard, she was still in Newcastle and that was about thirty years ago. She was younger than me so she'll be in her late sixties. Hey up now. Quiet for a moment while we negotiate the lane,”

Lola fell silent and admired Barbara's skill on the slippery ice. When they reached the bottom she nodded.

“You're good with these conditions aren't you?”

“Well, not realy darling. I know where the water gathers and freezes on every bend so I make sure that the other wheels are on safer ground. I've rarely got less than two wheels grip and most of the time it's four. Don't forget, I've lived in the cottage for forty years now so I know the lane like the back of me hand.”

Soon the land-rover was in the garage and the pair were quickly enjoying the welcome heat after re-stocking the fridge and larder. As they settled for supper Lola asked more questions, mostly about conditions for transgendered people way back when. She was also intrigued that Barbara might actually have a child out there somewhere.

In the following weeks, Lola was enrolled in a new school and was elated that she was allowed to attend as a girl. She was further surprised to learn that Barbara was more than capable of helping her with several subjects like maths, physics, geography, english spanish and french. By the time the mock GCSE's came around Lola was surprised and elated to find herself feeling confident. She did unexpectedly well and Barbara suggested they take a holiday to Spain as a reward.

“I don't have a passport.”

“Well that's no problem, have you got your birthcertificate?”

“Uuuhm, no.”

“Well where were you born.”

“I don't know.”
Barbara's jaw sagged.

“What! You must know where you were born.”

Lola wagged her head despondently.

“All I know is that my mother gave me up for adoption a month after I was born, fifteen years ago.”

For a moment Barbara found herself at a loss then realised that the social services would have some record. Within minutes, she was on the phone.

“Yes. The kid needs a passport. We're going to Spain in the summer.”

After some decision-making at the social services end the essential information was provided. Lola had been born in York and her original namewas provided. As Lola had already explained, there was no father registered but when Barbara received the information she was mildly surprised to see that Lola's family name was the same as hers. This was no big coincidence because 'Smith' was still possibly the most common english name in Britain. More importantly, the information enabled Lola to go forward with a passport application.

The birth certificate duly arrived with the usual information about Lola's biological mother but of course, no father. Barbara was intrigued to find that Lola's mother was born in Hull and seemed to be of a similar age to the child that Barbara had fathered all those years ago. At the time she was preoccupied with spring-cleaning her cottage and thought little more of it. Lola's new passport duly arrived and preparations for the Spanish holiday were soon completed. In April they were touring Spain.

When they returned, Lola was plunged straight into the intense revision for her main GCSC exams. During those months the care order arrived from social services to accompany Barbara's CRB check. The social worked who had met her at the police station brought both the documents personally to Barbara's cottage. Barbara half suspected the social were making a second check on the living arrangements to double check that nothing untoward was going on. For the life of her, Barbara could not understand why they might have considered there to be some sort of relationship going on between a septugenarian and a sixteen-year-old girl. It galled her to think that thesocial might have some reservations because both old woman and young girl were transsexuals.

The main outcome of the ratified care order was that Barbara could now act together with social services with a view to helping Lola advance her case for transition. After Barbara had safely stored away the new CRB certficate plus the care order, she invited the social worker to share a pot of tea and some biscuits in the high-walled private rear garden.

“You've got a lovely cottage here”, the social worker observed. “such a beautifull setting, and so peaceful.”

“Not for long,” Barbara enlightened her. “In another hour there'll be enough water with the tide for the river lock to work and I can see several boats ready to arrive and depart. Lola should be home from school by then and she often likes to offer a hand because many of the boat owners will toss her a couple of quid if she takes the ropes and offers advice. She's learned a lot about the tides and the river lock this spring.”
They then chatted at length about Lola's progress until Barbara checked her watch and advised the social worker.

“If you want to chat to her, and I'm sure you will. She'll be getting off the school bus at the top of the lane. You can chat to her in the car.”

The social worker smiled.

“That's a good idea and very tactful of you to offer me the chance to have a genuinly private chat. I'll bring her down the lane once we've chatted. It'll give her the chance to ask me any questions. Can you think of anything that's bothering her?”

“She's a bit worried about the social creating impediments to her transition. She's sixteen now and we've arranged for her first appointment with her new GP who is also my GP and whom I know to be sympathetic toward transgendered people.”

“Why should she be worried about us?”

“Most kids in care grow up having issues, often caused by just a single bad experience with one bad social worker or carer – or both. It takes a damned good carer and team of social workers to resolve those issues.”

“Are you a good carer?” The social worker grinned.

“Well, I've got the ace of trumps in my hand, I'm like her – a transsexual. She knows she cant trust me on that score.”

“Yes, it's a good start. What time is Lola's bus due?”

“About ten minutes, give or take. If you want to meet her you'd best go now.”

She finished up her tea and biscuits and Barbara watched as she drove up the lane. Next Barbara went to check the tide height and raised the green 'permission ball' The departing boats slowly made themselves ready and were approaching the lock by the time the social worker retunred with Lola. The girl got out, gave Barbara a quick kiss and changed into jeans and trainers to go and assist the boats. Her help ensured that boat owners didn't heve to clamber up and down muddy ladders in the tidal outer basin so her help was always appreciated. The social worker stood with Barbara watching Lola chatting happily to the bargee's.

“She's really happy here.”

“I like to think so,” Barbara agreed then asked. “Tell me, d'you have any objections to her going into bristol alone, she's sixteen now. Not clubbing of course, but cinema and stuff.”

“None at all. Will you be taking her in?”

“No but I'll be picking her up. She's got new friends at the school and she wants to go with them on Saturdays. I think a couple of the kids might be gay from the way Lola describes them. She's hoping to wear girls uniform when she goes to year twelve next September.”

“Yes, we discussed that in the car. We fully support her in that and you'll be pleased to know that we can assist financially with her transition costs. It won't cost her a penny.”

“What, you mean the surgical funding?” Barbara gasped slightly.”

“Yes, it means the local health board won't have to find the funding so there'll be no delays owed to financial issues.”

“Well that's fantastic news. Without sounding too cynical, might I ask how that works and why. In my day, funding was always an issue.”

“Well, now I've been able to give Lola the news – which I did just now in the car – I can tell you as well. Now she's living with you and says she's very happy, we like to think of Lola as a success story. She's a much happier kid than when she first came to us. Frankly, and please don't condemn us for this; Lola is deemed to be a worthwhile case. She is doing very well academically after only a few months in your care. We see her as a success. And we don't see many of those. Truth to tell, you have been a revelation to us and we would like to ask if you'd help with another gay kid.”

Barbara fell into a thoughtfull silence.

“You realise I'm in my seventies. I'm not as fit as some.”

“The kid isn't a problem child, she's a lesbian and finding a good foster home is proving difficult. She's just turned thirteen and she's black.”

“Is she badly behaved, you know, aggressive or violent?”

“Not that we know of. We have tried putting her with parents of her own race but the lesbianism thing doesn't seem to work. Currently, she's in London and the care workers are afraid she'll end up in a gang culture. She's run away several times so there are problems.”

Barbara was stuck; unsure what to say beyond reminding the social worker that she had no specialist training and no experience with younger kids. She then added.

“I'd have to run it by Lola as well, it would be unfair to just dump this on her.”

“There are a lot of hoops to jump through before anything concrete is set. The kid would have to check you out as well. I'll let you know if anything developes. Can I just say goodbye to Lola before I go.”

Barbara nodded towards the river lock where Lola was obviously enjoying some banter with a young couple on their holiday narrowboat. The social worker picked her way along the towpath to join Lola and they chatted briefly. Barbara was pleased to see that the two parted with shared smiles before the social worker returned made her goodbyes with Barbara and drove off up the lane.

PS.
To any readers who have stuck with this short story so far;

Firstly I have not finished with 'Heir to a title' but this story just came to me and it's grown in to possibly a two part 'solo'

Beverly.

Bab's New Year's Resolution 2.

“I don't know Ninah.”

Lola had taken to calling Barbara her 'Ninah' as a sort of personalised version of the the Italian 'Nonah' for grandmother. Barbara rather liked the name for it had a very personalised air, a private term of endearment that somehow strengthened the bond between them whist describing the age differential situation nicely. Lola continued.

“I'm studying hard for my GCSE's at the moment will she be coming sometime soon.”

“Well that's why I'm running it by you babe's. I've technically fostered you long term so it's only right for you to have a say about your life circumstances.”

“Yeah that was one of the best things to happen to me and I'm truly grateful. Will she be some sort of problem kid, you know fighting, rowing, breaking things? I like the peace and quiet here to study. Yeah, I know it's noisy by day but down this end by the lock in the evenings, it's okay. I can even sit out in the walled garden and do my revision if it's sunny”

“I take your point Lola, but the social services are pushing me a bit.”

“Have you met her, this thirteen-year-old lesbian?”

“No, they want me to either bring her down here or me to meet her up to London.”

“How did she discover she was a lesbian at thirteen.”

“I don't know petal. How did you and I discover we were transgendered. I was about four when I started wearing frocks. How old where you?”

Lola paused with embarrassment.

“Okay, Touché. Point taken. Perhaps I'm judging her harshly. I'll give London a miss.”

I'm sorry darling, you weren't invited. This involves Olivia. That's her name.”

“Well if you go up to London, it leaves me here alone to get on with revision and that's good. I've got two maths papers this Monday and Tuesday, then next week the remainder of the science papers. After that, the important exams are over for me. It's just stuff like history, geography and strangely enough woodwork.”

“History's important Babes, the only lesson we learn from history is -”

Lola grinned and rolled her eyes.

“Yes, yes Ninah. You've told me before – nobody ever learns the lessons of history.”

Barbara smiled indulgently. She knew that Lola was intending to take maths and sciences in years twelve and thirteen.

“Okay girl, I'll take the train up mid week after your maths exams and arrange to meet the kid. You'll have to revise on your own and don't forget to feed the cats.”

“Hah. As if they'd let me forget. Carbon's got a stomach like a chronometer and claws to make sure I'm punctual. Ammy and Amber are not far behind either.”

Barbara let slip another smile. The cats had grown to love the teen-aged whirlwind that had upset the calm tempo of the Lock-keeper's Cottage. Often Amethyst, or Ammy as Lola called her, was to be found waiting in the lane at home time. Even the narrow-boat community in the basin had grown fond of Lola and her orange 'marmalade cat' that often followed her like a trained dog.”

With the arrangements completed, Wednesday saw Babs joined by Joyce from the local Social Services, (S.S.) taking the train to London. They met the girl called Olivia in the offices of the SS in Brixton in London.

Olivia proved to be a wild child and resentful towards the social workers from Brixton but when she met Barbara she decided to give the old bitch a break and be just about manageable.

'After all', Olivia thought, 'if the bitch is prepared to try letting me live in her home, I'd be a fool not to suss out the situation'. She told herself.

Naturally Olivia was resentful at the idea of yet another upheaval in her tormented life and the thought of leaving her friends in the Brixton Children's centre simply added to her uncertainty. She wasn't happy at the thought of going to live with some old white bitch way out in the sticks but needs must when the devil cracked the whip. The idea simply reinforced her perception that she was simply some piece of flotsam or jetsam that Brixton SS were glad to get rid of. At first, the meeting was closely supervised by Brixton SS then later Barbara and Joyce from the Bristol SS were allowed to chat to the girl alone.

They explained the situation at the Lockside cottage and offered to let let Olivia come and visit after Lola's exams were completed. Olivia was not impressed and deduced that they were already showing preference and priority to Lola's academic needs.

“Whar'rabaat my needs?” Olivia whined.

Barbara quickly deduced that the thirteen-year-old was already trying emotional black-mail and she moved immediately to be firm.

“Let's get one thing right here and now Olivia. If you agree to live with us, you will be treated equally with Lola. At the moment, Lola's in the middle of her GCSE's and I'm sure you'll know how important they are to her. One day, if you decide to choose an academic route to adulthood, you'll be as nervous as Lola that nobody spoils your chance to escape the ghetto.”

“Yeah! Like that'll happen.”

Joyce had been surprised at Barbara's forceful approach so she let Barbara answer Olivia's challenge.

“Let's get another thing quite clear girl. There are not many routes out of London's inner city ghettos for kids in care. The academic route is one of the most certain because once you have qualifications, nobody can steal them from you short of killing you or damaging your intellect. No matter where you go, you'll always have what's inside your head.

The other escape routes are mainly sport or entertainment; the former is short-lived, the latter is strewn with dangers like drug addiction and parasites latching onto your wealth if you become famous. Only you can decide which route to take girl. I can only hold open the door and provide the means for you to escape. The rest is up to you. You've got until a week this Saturday to make up your mind. That's when Lola finishes her GCSE's so that's when you can come down and check us out. As I say, it's entirely your choice. I've got a short video-clip of the canal and the cottage if you'd like to see it.”

The idea intrigued Olivia and she stared unbelievingly at the clip showing a busy summer's evening with some twenty boats all queued up by the lock ready to leave or enter the canal from or to the river. In the clip, Lola was to be seen hopping about with mooring lines and lock paddle handles as she scored a few extra quid for very little inconvenience and a lot of friendly banter.

“Is that Lola in the hot-pants and trainers.” Olivia asked as she watched the idyllic summer scene.

Barbara nodded.

“I thought you said she was a boy getting ready to transition.”

“She is.”

“Fuck me, she looks good enough all ready. I could fancy her right now. She's hot!”

“Well you're only thirteen young lady. You would be too young darling – to indulge in any sexual behaviour that is.” Joyce warned.

“Yeah. Tell that to the kids in here.”

“I don't need to worry about the kids in here.” Barbara declared firmly. “The rules in my cottage will be different, for they will be mutually agreed by you and Lola then enforced, mostly by me and of course Joyce in a supervisory role. Besides, as far as sex goes, I don't think Lola will take any nonsense from you; though I won't let her bully you either.”

“Huh! Is that a promise?” Olivia demanded as her bravado failed to hide her hope.

“As best as I can make. I'm new to this kids care thing so I'll probably make mistakes but I'm sure you and Lola will soon moan if I've got it wrong. Joyce of course will be the arbiter if there is discord.”

With this, Barbara and Joyce stood up as they prepared to leave for Bristol. As she turned to wish Olivia goodbye, Barbara spotted the brief flicker of disappointment ripple across the young teenager's countenance and she hesitated.

“Was there something else?”

Olivia's eyes brightened slightly with hope.

“Are you leaving already?”

“Uuhm yes,” Joyce confirmed. “We have to be back in Bristol this evening and then Barbara's got some more driving to do to get back to her cottage.”

On realising the girl did not want them to leave immediately Barbara thought constructively. She searched quickly for an excuse to extend the meeting for it might give them a chance to possibly discover some of Olivier's issues. Then she found a hook on which to hang her idea.”

“D'you have any hobbies Olivia?”

“Yeah, why?”

“Like what?” Barbara pressed.”

“Drawing, - well, - drawing and painting as well.”

Barbara noticed the slight surprise ripple through the Brixton team and it was obvious to Bab's that they had no idea about Olivia's artistic inclination. Realising this Barbara pressed her suit.

“Really. D'you have anything to show us?”

“Not here,” Olivia declared sullenly, “they're back at the children's home.”

Barbara nodded sagely as she caught Joyce's eye.

“Can we swing by the children's home on the way back to Paddington Station.”

“Well we've got a bit of spare time, there's a train every hour.” Joyce replied.

“Okay, we'll go there first then possibly the V&A or the National Portrait Gallery.”

Joyce glanced questioningly towards the Brixton social workers who frowned uncertainly then agreed. As they departed Joyce turned to Babs when they were out of Olivia's earshot.

“Watch'a got up your sleeve girl?”

“I'd like to see if the kid's telling the truth about her art hobby and if she is we could take her for a brief visit to the V& A Museum or maybe the national portrait gallery.

“Have we got the time?” Joyce asked.

“We can make the time, I just want the kid to think this visit isn't a complete waste of time. You know, another of those interminable bureaucratic exercises I can stay in a hotel tonight if necessary, what about you? Besides I think the kid might be warming to me.”

“I suppose so, let's see what the kid's artwork is like, shall we?”

Having agreed the strategy, both their mobiles were busy before they assembled again at the children's home. Joyce was clearing her overnight stay with her bosses while Barbara explained to Lola that she would be staying in town. When they reached the children's home, Olivia and the Brixton social team were waiting for them.

“So where's your art stuff Olivia,” Babs asked.

The girl hesitated then took them to a derelict garden shed under some large trees at the bottom of the neglected garden. After checking that none of the children were around she dug under some wooden crates and extracted a large, sealed, plastic folder. Inside were some excellent drawings, mostly caricatures of staff members but one or two were excellent portraits.
Joyce and the Brixton team let out low whistles but Barbara kept silent as Joyce exclaimed to Olivia.

“These are really good kid! Why have you been hiding them?”

“They're mine.” Olivia snapped as she hugged the portfolio tight to her and creasing the pictures inadvertently.

The social workers were long inured to obsessive possessiveness amongst children from care so they simply ignored Olivia's behaviour but Barbara could see an excellent prospect to lay foundations. She smiled a genuine smile as she studied one of the portraits and remarked.

“A small thing but thine own, a light unto thy soul; is it girl?”

Olivia wrinkled her brow as she grasped Barbara's words.

“Summat like that.”

“D'you want to come to the art gallery?”

Olivia glared at the social workers then shrugged despondently.

“They won't allow it. They don' ave time. They never 'ave time.”

“Joyce and I have got time.” Barbara explained. “We've spoken to Bristol SS and they've said we can stay in a hotel here tonight if there is hope for a solution.”
“Whadd'ya mean solution? I'm not some sort of Algebra equation thingy, I'm a 'uman bein'”

“Well said kid.” Barbara grinned.

Olivia was beginning to like this white haired old woman. She somehow seemed to notice what mattered to the young teenager and furthermore act upon it by offering encouragement and support. She turned to the Brixton social workers.

“Can I go to the art gallery?”

“Can I go to the art gallery PLEASE!.” Barbara corrected her.

Olivia glared at her but took the hint.

“Please.”

The Brixton exchanged more meaningful glances for they could already see that the young tearaway was reacting well to the old woman. They had also noticed how Olivia's attitude was altogether more amenable. They turned to Joyce the Bristol Social worker.

“Will you accept responsibility for Olivia during the visit?”

Joyce exchanged a questioning glance with Olivia who begged beseechingly.

“Pleeease! I promise to be good.”

“Are you happy with this Babs?” Joyce double checked.

Barbara smiled and reiterated.

“It was me that suggested it, remember?”

Joyce nodded and turned to the Brixton pair.

“Okay, where's the release form?”

The form was supplied then duly completed by Joyce and surprisingly, by Barbara also. Olivia looked on somewhat resentfully.

“All that paperwork just so I can go to the art gallery. It's like prison!”

Barbara sensed Olivia's resentment and quickly turned the argument around.

“No girl; it's because you are a valuable commodity; a young human being with a huge potential. Your well-being is paramount and that's why I signed the form as well. I wouldn't have it any other way. Your artwork is good, you've got prospects.”

This encouraging reply tore a huge hole in the wall of Olivia's resentment. For once Olivia felt good as she saw and felt the light of Barbara's praise and compassion shine through the huge, unexpected rent in her defences.

“Thanks Babs, d 'you mind if I call you Babs. Joyce does.”

“Joyce is an adult colleague young lady, you are still a girl, but, I don't mind. Call me anything you like, but don't call me before four o'clock in the morning.”

Olivia's lip gave a little wobble as she almost laughed then just managed to stifle it. The breach however, had not gone unnoticed by Barbara – '

'The wall is already coming down' Babs told herself.

The visit to the art gallery proved hugely enjoyable to Olivia where to her surprise both Joyce and Barbara proved to have some knowledge of the pictures. Unbeknownst to Olivia, Joyce had studied art at University while Barbara had travelled a lot in her earlier working life and seen many other works by the same artists displayed on the walls of museums and galleries in Paris, Antwerp, Venice and many other cities worldwide.

Inevitably the excursion ran late courtesy of several phone calls by Joyce to obtain an extension and it was long after normal curfew that Olivia was returned home for she had enjoyed a meal in a cafe up the west end followed by a show that Joyce had been wanting to see for months. By the time Olivia returned to the children's home she was bouncing with excitement despite the late hour.

After dropping Olivia off, Babs and Joyce were compelled to stay in a hotel and take an early morning train home to Bristol, After a long day sorting stuff in Bristol SS Offices, Barbara returned home late that Thursday. Lola had finished her maths exams and found time to give her septuagenarian friend the third degree about the girl in London.

“What's she like.”
Barbara grinned as she replied

“She's lively, cheeky, nosey, disobedient, stubborn, rude, full of bounce – a typical thirteen-year old girl, d' you want me to go on.”

“Huh! That tells me everything and nothing, I'll word it another way. What's she going to be like?”

Barbara grinned again.

“Ah! Now there you have me. Clairvoyance isn't my strong suit.”

Lola realised she wasn't going to get 'chapter-and-verse' out of her canny old mentor so she concentrated on the large 'ready-meal' that Bab's had brought home. After eating Lola went back into the parlour to continue revising while Babs settled in her favourite chair by the kitchen stove with Carbon and Amber. Amethyst was of course sharing Lola's lap in the parlour.

With so much afoot in the Lock-keeper's cottage it seemed as if no time had passed before Lola's science exams were finished. The following Friday Joyce and Babs met Olivia with the Brixton Social worker off the London train.

“Where's Lola,” Olivia demanded for she had been secretly looking forward to meeting the transgendered older girl.

Babs grinned.

“It's Saturday girl, and it's sunny. What d 'you think she's doing?”

Olivia paused before the penny dropped.

“Oh – yes; the lock gates, helping the boats with ropes and stuff.”

“A girl's got to make a living babes.” Joyce added.. “Come on, hop in.”

They signed for Olivia's transfer then the Brixton SS worker left them to it. In the car Park Lola dumped her back-pack in the boot (trunk) and settled in the rear seat. Throughout the journey to the cottage, she peppered Babs and Joyce with questions about Lola.
“Good gracious young lady!” Babs chuckled. “I think you should ask Lola these questions when we get to the cottage. For me it's more important that I ask questions about you that I need to know.”

“Questions like what?” Olivia demanded.

“Personal questions like, what's your favourite breakfast food, what sorts of clothes you like, do you want a mobile phone; stuff like that. Oh and also who's your best friend in London so you can invite them down to stay some time.”

Olivia fell into a thoughtful silence before opening up cautiously.

“What makes you think I've got a best friend?”

Barbara grinned with a disturbing transparency.

“Your self-declared sexuality young lady. You were probably good friends before you realised you fancied her as well. Is she a lesbian as well?”

Olivia froze and stared like a mesmerized rabbit caught in the gaze of a stoat.

“Are you going to ban her?”

“No. What made you think that?”

“Well, - you know, - in London – they wouldn't let us – you know; do I have to spell it out!”

Joyce's jaw had sagged with astonishment by now and she simply gaped disbelievingly as Barbara treated the whole issue without a flicker of discomfort or embarrassment.

“No baby, you don't have to 'spell- it – out', but it helps to get stuff sorted from the very outset.”

“Meaning?” Olivia's brow furrowed with further uncertainty.

“Meaning that I don't need to be dealing in misunderstandings, deceptions or downright lies. This chat will clear any obstacles if or when you need help or advice, especially about sexuality issues etcetera.”
It was Olivia's turn for her jaw to sag. Nobody had ever treated her with such candour or sincerity before. She felt truly adult and liked the feeling.

“Does that mean I can have my friend over to – you know?”

“It means you can have the same freedoms as any other 'thirteen-year-old' kid and that means pyjama parties. I know what goes on in kid's homes Olivia, I'm not dumb and some day you'll know why I know.”

It was Joyce's turn to frown uncertainly.

“I'm not sure this is safe. Legally I mean. She's only thirteen.”

Barbara shrugged and turned to Olivia.

“So what happens in the kids home in London?” Barbara countered.

Olivia interrupted vehemently.

“You don' wanna know. Kids get pregnant all the time. Sometimes jus' to rub the socials' noses in it, sometimes just to feel they're worth something. Then there's the gangs. “Gangs?” Barbara pressed.

“Yeah on the estate by the home girls aren't safe. Especially us girls from the children's home. Boys think we're all slags so we have no right to say no.”

Joyce's expression darkened as she glanced at Barbara.

“Same old, same old. It's the same shit here, just a different city.”

“Exactly;” Babs reasoned flawlessly. “So it's better to have a pyjama party with one partner under a safe roof than a bloody non-consensual orgy of rape in some secret corner of a public park. Far less risk of infection or pregnancy.”

Joyce nodded defeatedly. She knew better than Barbara what passed for 'care' these days.

“Having learned that she could have her 'best friend' over, Olivier's mood brightened considerably. When she finally arrived at the hairpin lane down to 'Lock-keeper's Cottage' with it's Idyllic setting, her expression widened with appreciation.”
“Fuck me this is beautiful! This is gonna be fab to paint.”

Barbara and Joyce shared a mutual, self satisfied smile as Barbara explained further.

“That view changes every hour kid, because the tide is ebbing or flowing all the time and those sand-bars in the river change shape every twelve hours. Oh! I've just had another thought.”

“What?” Olivia demanded, part in fear, part in expectation and somewhat suspiciously.

“Narrow boat owners love to paint their boats with scenes and decorative borders. With your painting skills, you might possibly find some paying work amongst the boat-owners' It'd be enjoyable work as well plus you'll meet interesting people; lots of them live on their boats.”

“What are they like? Are they like Vietnamese boat people or the Hong Kong bum-boats?”

“Good gracious young lady, where did you learn about those? Well the answer is no. Most of them love their boats and use them as their permanent homes. If you help paint the murals and signs on their boats they'll treat you well, especially if they learn you live with me.”

“Are there any lesbians living there? I've heard about these alternative communities.”

Barbara snorted with amusement.

“Ha! I don't ask darling. It's not my business to poke into other peoples affairs.”

“Can I go for rides on the boats?”

“That depends girl. If you get a reputation for good work and good behaviour, some of them might well invite you on a working trip. You help with operating the boat and they might let you ride with them up to Gloucester or even down river to Bristol and Avon-mouth.”

Olivia's eyes widened with hope but Barbara decided not to tell her that Lola was sometimes invited to help out on voyages as far as Birmingham and Bath along the canals and rivers. However, Lola had already demonstrated her usefulness to those particular narrow-boat owners as a mooring assistant and general handy-man in the tidal lock by the cottage.
By now, the car had reached the bottom of the 'hair-pin' lane and Olivia was studying the cottage as they approached. There was no sign of Lola as they entered and Olivia was shown her room. She plonked her back-pack on the bed and completed a brief inspection before re-appearing in the kitchen just as Barbara was making tea.
“My God girl, you can smell a cuppa can't you.”
Olivia grinned as she took the proffered cup and added her own milk and sugar.

“Where's Lola?” She asked Barbara.

“Probably down at the river - lock. It's quite busy as you'll have noticed so she'll be earning a few quid I suppose.”
“Can I go and see?”

“Sure kid. I've just got a few forms to finish with Joyce.”

Barbara had hardly turned to speak with Joyce but that Olivia had dashed out and was trotting along the tow-path towards the river lock. As she approached she saw whom she presumed to be Lola laughing with an unseen figure below the coping of the lock. Lola was lying on her tummy and reaching down to take something. Both Lola and the unseen person were chuckling.
“Just watch her claws Aaron.”

Curious as to what was happening, Olivia walked up and stood behind Lola as the girl was pre-occupied with the unseen situation below the coping stones edging the lock-side.

Then Lola wormed herself backwards from the edge of the lock and slowly a cat appeared in her hands.

“Have you got her?” The invisible voice asked from below the edge.

“Yes thanks. I cant thank you enough.”

Then Lola spoke to the bedraggled cat.”.

You silly moggy. That'll teach you not to try and jump aboard the boats. Gloss paint is slippery when wet with soapy water.. Haven't you learned that yet?”

With that Lola reached back and set her Cat Amethyst on the grass and the cat went streaking off along the tow-path back to the cottage. It was obvious to Olivia that the cat had fallen in the lock. It was only then that Lola noticed Olivia standing over her.

“Oh hello, - are you looking for Aaron or Shirley.”

Even without waiting for a reply, Lola rolled back on her tummy and called down to the unseen boat-owners.

“I think you've got a visitor Shirley.”

A woman's voice replied.

“We're not expecting anybody, we're off to Bristol for the weekend.”

“Oh. Okay.” Lola replied as she rolled over again to look up at the visitor. “Who are you looking for darling?”

Olivia was bemused and a little piqued.

“I'm looking for you; you are Lola I take it.”

“Yes. Who are you?”

“I'm Olivia, the girl from London.”

Lola had not been told that Olivia was black.

“Oooohh! Sorry Babes. I didn't know. I thought you were a friend or relative of Aaron or Shirley. Sorry.”

Olivia was a little nonplussed. She was mildly surprised that Barbara had not mentioned her ethnicity to Lola. Lola sat up and offered a muddy hand to the new arrival. Olivia wrinkled up her nose then delicately took the two cleanest fingers and gave them a limp shake. Lola was then forced to attend to the boat in the lock.

“Just let me sort this boat out then I'll have some time before that motor cruiser comes in. We can chat as I work.”

Olivia still felt a bit miffed about her reception but she fell in with Lola as she started to open the sea gate. Olivia finally got a look at the two boaters and was surprised to see that Aaron and Shirley were black.

“Ah. I see.”

“See what?” Lola wondered as she motioned to Olivia to follow her.

“Why you thought I was visiting those two.”

“I didn't know. Barbara never told me. It's an easy mistake to make.”

“Even as she spoke she caught a mooring line from Aaron as Shirley manoeuvred the narrow-boat against the flooding tide.”

Once the boat was fast, Aaron spoke to Lola.

“Sorry you cant come with us. Babs did mention your exams.”

Lola nodded ruefully.
“It's only History and Geography but I've still got to revise. I'll join you next time maybe. Will you be waiting for High water?”

“We might leave a couple of hours to slack high-water otherwise we'll miss the last lock at Portishead.”

“Right. I'll just sort out that motor cruiser and I'll be back for a cuppa.”

Olivia was slightly surprised that Lola seemed so familiar with the black couple.

“Do you know them then?”

“Yes,” Lola replied without giving it a second thought. “Aaron's a registrar at BRI and Shirley lectures at the Uni. She's helped me prepare for my Chemistry exams.”

Olivia nodded thoughtfully.

“And sometimes they take you along for the ride.”

Lola nodded as she caught the cabin-cruiser's line and deftly looped it around the bollard. This would enable the boat to let go without assistance when the lock was lifted and they entered the canal. The boat owners were visitors and Lola didn't know them but she still maintained her cheery banter until the cruiser departed.

With the last boat sorted, Lola could relax.

“Come and have a cuppa with Aaron and Shirley, they won't be sailing for a few hours yet cos their kids have not arrived from school yet.”

“I'd rather just chat with you for now. Barbara's told me a lot about you.”

“Like what?” Lola wondered.

“That your trans.”

“Yeah. It's no secret. Everybody in the basin knows by now.”

“Can I ask some questions please?”

“Well not just now. Shirley will be wondering where I've got to.”

“When can we speak then?”

“After dinner tonight, when the cottage is calm and peaceful. Ninah should be there as well I reckon. Here we are. On Deck!!”

Shirley's head appeared and noted the second visitor.

“Who's this.”

“Her names Olivia, she's another one of Barbara's waifs-and-strays collection.”

“Hop aboard, any friend of Lola's is a friend of ours. D' you like tea or coffee girl?”

“Can I have coffee please.

“Sure. Sit down.”

As Shirley prepared tea and coffee, Aaron chatted mainly with Lola about her exams.

“I know I've passed maths because all the answers worked out and I wrote them down on the question paper.”

“And Physics?”

“Yes, my answers tallied with Ralph's, the head of physics.

“Biology?”

“Easy. The Chemistry was harder but I acknowledge that. I'm weak on Chemistry.

“And the other subjects?”

“I've muddled through. There's still some exams left but I've done enough to go into year eleven.”

“Well you've done well for a kid who's had to face all those issues. Good on yer girl.”

Olivia wondered what Aaron meant by 'all those issues' but she kept silent and resolved to ask Lola at a more convenient time. Shirley reappeared with some fruit-cake and the drinks and she was much blunter than her husband Aaron.

“So young lady. You're another of Babs' waifs and strays. Might I ask how you got here.”

Olivia wasted no time on niceties.

“Shit parents then more shit. Fostering, care homes, you name it.”

Shirley nodded slowly then she asked.

“So how did you end up in Bab's tender care?”

Olivia hesitated but it seemed that Lola's stuff was no secret so why should she hide her past.?”

“I'm LGBT.”

“OH yes and – without myself belonging to that community, dare I ask which you are..”

“El. El for lesbian.”

Shirley raised her eyebrows.

“Oh, in one so young.”

“I'm thirteen.”

Shirley sensed the girl's defences rising so she nodded sagely and offered Olivia some fruit-cake while changing the subject.

“So, will you be staying full time at the cottage?”

Olivia's demeanour changed as uncertainty fell like a shadow.

“Dunno' depends on Barbara and Lola.”

Aaron weighed in.

“I rather think it depends on you young lady. Knowing Barbara as I do, I think the ball's firmly in your court. Barbara's a remarkable soul. Play fair with her and she'll play fair with you.”

“Even though I'm black?” Olivia almost whined with wounded anger.

Aaron exchanged a brief glance with Shirley before explaining softly.

“Hello-oo little girl, we're black.”

“Yeah, but you got treated okay, good schools and all that stuff.”

“You think so?” Shirley almost growled.

Olivia's aggression started to erode as she sensed that Aaron and Shirley might not have been born with silver spoons.

“Well – well, you obviously did okay.”

“We both grew up in care young lady, It was Barbara that motivated us at school. She taught us maths and when the physics teacher proved to be useless, she took us both under her wing for physics as well. The other teachers just presumed because we were black, we were lost causes. Fortunately, Barbara fought tooth and nail to fight our corner. She finally got the chemistry teacher and one of the English teachers on board and eventually we clawed our way out of the care ghetto.”

“What, you lived with her in the cottage.”

“No Barbara wasn't ready to make that big a step but that's another story, - her story. But remember this as I just said. Play fair with Barbara and she'll play fair with you.”

Olivia felt compelled to agree but it irked her to admit it to a virtual stranger. Now unsure of her ground she fell silent. Suddenly she found herself wishing for the certainty of Barbara's company and clumsily made her excuses. To have suddenly met two successful members of her own race had undermined her reasons for resentment.

“I suppose I'd better get back to the cottage and unpack. Are you coming Lola?”

Lola had totally failed to read Olivia's uncertainty and blithely declared that she'd be back for tea at five and she intended to continue chatting to the couple.

“Tell Ninah I'll be back for tea.”

Olivia stiffened slightly. Back at the children's home the kids had always endeavoured to maintain solidarity. When confronting authority; - 'One for all, and all for one'. By this culture, Olivia had managed to push her own agendas in many instances but here it seemed, the rules were different. Obviously Lola was not one who could be bullied or manipulated. Having finished her coffee, Olivia made her excuses.

“She's an independent young lady,” Shirley observed after Olivia had gone.

Lola shrugged and nodded. “Each to their own, that's my policy. Provided she doesn't hurt Ninah, things should rub along.”

“Or hurt the cats,” Aaron chuckled.

“Or the cats,” Lola concurred, “and they rub along okay. Well they rub up to Nina and me.”

The three broke up with laughter and the couple's children found them still chuckling when they got home. Their arrival prompted Lola to make her excuses and when she returned to the cottage, she found Joyce just about to leave. She and Barbara had been chatting about Olivia. Outside the cottage, Joyce shared a few words with Lola.
“Go easy on the kid. She's very unsure of herself.”
“Really, Lola intoned, I had her down for something of a bossy boots.”
“She's very frightened and very alone. You're nicely settled here now, aren't you?”
Lola nodded as Joyce pressed home her point.

“Olivia's never had a proper, full time home. She doesn't even know who her father is. Barbara's just about the first adult she seems to trust. If nothing else, I'm asking you to help the kid, if only to make Bab's job easier.”

Lola pulled a wry smile as she nodded whilst thinking.
'For Nina's sake only.'
As Joyce turned her car ready to leave, Olivia appeared from the cottage where she'd been pestering Barbara..

“When are you coming back?” She called to Joyce.

“Next Monday girl. You've got my number if you want to go earlier.”

Olivia stood silent as Joyce departed then she turned to Lola.

”Tea's ready. Babs sent me to tell you.”

“Thanks.” Lola replied monosyllablicly for Joyce's words had left her uncertain how to deal with the new arrival.

She followed Olivia back into the cottage and took her usual seat as Olivia settled next to her. Barbara served up the food and silence overtook the kitchen as the young ones ate hungrily. The silence only lasted a few minutes when a plaintiff 'Miaow' entered the kitchen followed by a still bedraggled and very wet, orange cat.

“Well dear me Amethyst. Where on earth have you been?”

“She tried to jump aboard Aaron and Shirley's boat but she slipped off and fell in the lock. Luckily the lock was down to sea level. Aaron pulled her out and handed her back to me.”

“Was she hurt?”

“No only her dignity or pride.” Lola chuckled as she grabbed a large, warm tattered towel from the Aga and invited the dishevelled feline onto her knee.

“Amethyst paused then decided to trust her keeper and leapt up. Lola promptly wrapped the warm towel around the cat who immediately settled onto her favourite lap. Olivia grinned as the cat demonstrated total trust.

“She likes you.” Olivia observed.

“Yeah, she's adopted me. The other two still prefer Nina. You can't please everybody.”

With Amethyst warm and dry again, Lola finished her tea then explained to Barbara that she was going to say goodbye to Aaron and Shirley. So saying she set off along the tow path with her inevitable orange shadow. On sunny days Amethyst followed Lola every where. Olivia remained seated at the kitchen table to ask about Lola.

“She's friendly with those nigga's.”

“That's not a term we use around here girl.” Babs admonished her.

“I can use it; I'm black.”

“Well Aaron and Shirley won't thank you for it and I doubt if you'd endear yourself to them.

“Can I go and speak to them again?”

“This isn't a prison girl. Of course you can. You'd better be quick though. Lola told me they're leaving two hours to high water.”

Within moments, Olivia was running along the tow-path playing catch-up with Lola and her marmalade cat.

“Barbara said I could come and see them off as well.”

“I'm sure they'll make you welcome.”

With these words ringing in her ears, Olivia ran ahead and stepped aboard before Lola could warn her. Shirley's head immediately popped out of the galley as the boat rocked from the intruder's arrival. Lola was shouting”g at Olivia.

“You should always ask before boarding. Say 'Permission to come aboard'? “

“Olivia hesitated and turned towards Shirley who nodded affirmation.”

“She's right girl. I could have been carrying hot water and spilt it as you rocked the boat.”

“Sorry.. I was just coming with Lola to wish you good bye.”

Shirley grinned.

“We're only going to Bristol for the weekend. We'll be back Monday evening. You'd best come aboard and meet the family.”

Olivia waited for Lola and the cat to step aboard and they followed Shirley into the saloon. Two girls and a boy were sat with their father and an older woman so Shirley introduced them. With introductions complete Lola fell to discussing the week end.

“I'm in Bristol for Saturday afternoon. What time will you be at the floating harbour?”

“We leave Portishead at four hours to flow and catch the flood all the way up the Avon.”
“So that'll be about eightish. At the floating harbour. Early start then.”
“Four am departing Portishead. It'll be daylight though. Nice run with the tide.”

“ Have you booked a mooring, it's the regatta?” Lola checked.

Aaron nodded.

“Yes. I've got a work colleague who lives on a narrow boat full time. I'm tying up next to him. I think you know him, Billy Jackson.”

“Is that Rubicon, she's moored in the basin a lot during winter.”

“The very same. He often talks about you.”

“Yes, I know him. I'll meet you in Bristol then, Bab's is going in so she'll bring me.”

“What about you young lady?” Aaron asked Olivia.
“I dunno. I suppose I'll be joined at the hip to Bab's. I'm only here for a week or so on Licence so they're not likely to let me loose in Bristol.”

As uncertainty flickered across Aaron's face Lola explained.

“It's not like a prison licence, she's here on trial to see if she gets on with us.”

“Aah. I see, and if she passes muster?”

“She gets to stay full time. That's if she likes us as well.”

As Lola said this, Shirley produced some biscuits to go with the tea and coffee.

“Help yourselves. We'll be sailing soon.”

They chatted around the table until the time to sail arrived and Olivia joined Lola in letting the boat go. As they returned to the cottage Lola decided to ask Olivia if she wanted to stay with her in Bristol or go shopping with Barbara.

“I dunno.” Olivia sighed. “Bab's might nor trust me.”

“You have to earn her trust. I did.”

“Did you ever do a runner?” Olivia asked.

“No. I was thrown out by my dad when I came out. Bab's is technically my carer, my foster mother. She's my first and I hope only carer.”

“So you've never lived in a care home or hostel?”

“No I was homeless then I was sofa surfing then made homeless again. Bristol SS approached Babs because I'm transgendered.”

“Oh, does she specialise in LGBT then? What special skills has she got?”

Lola's jaw sagged as she realised that Olivia hadn't sussed Barbara out. She quickly changed tack.

“I suppose she must have. I never asked.”

By now they had reached the cottage and Amethyst slipped through the cat-flap to inadvertently alert Barbara to the girls' return. Olivia wasted no time in pleading to be allowed to go around Bristol with Lola. Barbara had to disappoint her.

“Sorry darling. I've got other business in Bristol and besides, you need some new underwear. Yours is shot.”

“But Aaron and Shirley will be in the docks with their boat.”

“I'm sorry darling. You're still on trust and I'm very busy. On this occasion you'll have to stay by me. Later on, if you decide to stay with us and behave responsibly, things will get better, I promise.”

“Huh, so much for freedom.”

“Freedom, comes with responsibilities. For this weekend you'll just have to stay with me.”

Olivia fumed silently then went to her room. As darkness finally descended, she wondered just how to get away. Escape was obviously easy but her chat with Lola had already taught her of the dangers of life on the street. Staying safe was the tricky bit.

Babs' New Year's Resolution 3.

The Friday morning dawned clear and sunny promising an excellent turnout for the Regatta. As Barbara drove into Bristol she could clearly sense the resentment radiating silently from the passenger seat. Olivia was sulking and also jealous that Lola would be free to prowl around Bristol on her own, while she, Olivia had to stay with the old woman.

When they arrived, Lola disappeared immediately after arranging to meet with Aaron, Shirley and their three children when they had tied up next to Billy Jackson's narrow boat the Rubicon. She knew exactly where Billy's boat 'Rubicon' was berthed and quickly joined the gay consultant endocrinologist to await Aaron's appearance.

By the time Aaron and family had navigated up the River Avon to the old Bristol 'floating harbour' then waited an interminable time in the ship lock while other boats were gathered, it was all of ten o'clock before Billy and Lola spotted them coming up the floating dock amongst at least a score of other boats.

“Do they know where you're berthed?” Lola asked Billy.

“I gave them verbal instructions but it's pandemonium out there, just look at them all clamouring for berths.”

“Shall I take your jolly boat and guide them in?”

Billy knew that Lola was now proficient in small boats because he had seen her efficiently working with Barbara's little boat on the Canal and around the basin. He'd even seen her working around the lock-gate pintles in the river lock whilst breaking a trapped narrow boat free of ice during a precarious tidal bore. By the time other boat owners had hurried to help, Lola had averted the danger and saved the couple plus their boat.

Knowing this, he gave Lola a life-jacket and watched the young transexual nimbly thread her way between the log-jam of boats to fetch up alongside Aaron and help him and Shirley to manoeuvre into the awkward slot between Billy's boat and another neighbouring boat. As Aaron cautiously threaded his boat into the tight space, Lola ducked around Rubicon's stern and made fast before trotting along the pier and grabbing Aaron's bow-rope. Billy already had tea ready when they had tied up.

“So what's the plan?” Shirley asked.

“As soon as you're ready, we can join the festivities on the water, Billy offered.”

“Such as?” Shirley continued. “The kids are all pumped up.”

“Oh, rowing races, dinghy regatta, silly boat antics, crazy stunts, and the nicest dressed boat, there's several classes of that. Finally there's the 'Sailing by' historical procession of boats and of course you can walk aboard the visiting 'Tall Ships. Then there are all the shore-side festivities and the boat tackle fair .

Oh, I've also booked a dining table aboard the SS Great Britain for the late afternoon or early evening, first sitting. Finally we go back to the fair for the evening disco. It'll be a good day out.”

A general smile of appreciation and anticipation spread across the children's faces and the 'tea and cakes' were wolfed down in short order.. Before the adults knew it, both Billy and Aaron's jolly boats had been commandeered by the children and they were putt-putting across the dock to were the most fun was happening - splashing battles, hosepipe wars, silly stunts, and all the crazy antics that boat-people got up to short of sinking their boats.

Aaron turned to his medical colleague.

“We won't see much of them until the meal time on the ship.”

“They shouldn't be late, they've all got mobiles.” Shirley opined.

“So what shall we do?”

“Well Mum and I want to see the art exhibition in the Anarfoli Museum then a stroll through the fair. What about you two?” Shirley asked the men.

“Well I fancy the exhibition as well, Billy confessed. They've changed some of the displays and I haven't seen them yet.”

He turned hopefully towards Aaron.

“Are you happy to tag along then we can share a pint or two later in the King William.”

“I'm easy, Aaron nodded.”

“Don't you two go getting drunk now!” Shirley threatened as her mother nodded support.

“As if,” Billy chuckled as they locked up their narrow boats and set off for the foot ferry that carried them across the dock.

Across the city, Olivia was sat twiddling her thumbs while Barbara visited several places in a seemingly endless process of paperwork. She looked up resentfully as Barbara returned from the last office.

“I thought banks and stuff were closed on Saturdays.” Olivia whined.

“These were appointments I made beforehand and I had to meet the principals.”

Olivia had no idea what Barbara was on about but she was relieved when the business finally turned to shopping.

“Come on now. Once the shopping is over the day is our own. If we're quick we might even see the finals of the racing regattas.”

“Don't much like shopping,” Olivia moaned resentfully.

“Well like it or not, you've still got to get some underwear. You looked like a wartime refugee when you came out of the shower this morning Underwear comes in various colours including white. Yours are all grey! You also need new bras. That thing you've got is a disgrace, I'm surprised the underwire hasn't stabbed you through the heart.”

“It's comfy and it gives me cleavage.”

“You need a decent one and it will still give you cleavage. We'll do that first.”

Olivia made a show of resentment by tutting obnoxiously but when she was towed almost kicking and screaming into a large expensive department store with a fabulous lingerie section her attitude changed. The stuff available was really nice with terrific selections.

Barbara smiled inwardly as Olivia fell silent while she rummaged eagerly through the sales stock piled loosely on the large counter. Babs knew her action was an out-and-out bribe but, 'what the heck', she told herself. She was growing fond of the kid despite her rough edges.

“Can I try these on.” Olivia pleaded hopefully.

Barbara simply nodded towards the fitting rooms.

At the door, the assistant handed her the tags and asked knowingly if 'the young lady' needed a fitting. Olivia looked uncertainly at Barbara and whispered.

“What's a fitting? Is that where they check your tits?”

“Exactly,” Barbara confirmed.

“I've never had a fitting.”

“Why doesn't that surprise me?” Barbara sighed as she smiled sympathetically.

“Do they poke me about and squeeze my boobs?

“No, it's not like a breast scan darling, it's all about fit and comfort and it wont cause you any pain. She'll be taking measurements and testing different styles.. She'll take you to the big cubicle at the bottom while I go for a cup of tea.”

“Can you stay with me? I'm a bit nervous.”

“If you want; certainly.”

Barbara nodded affirmation to the assistants and the older girl led them to the fitting room. Inside the cubicle Olivia shyly removed her top. The grey, tatty article encasing her nascent boobs was embarrassing. Barbara rolled her eyes as the assistant glanced her way and wagged her head sympathetically..

“We can ditch that I think.” Barbara remarked as a way of disowning the bra without disowning Olivia.

The assistant nodded slowly and silently as she concurred.

“Yes. I definitely think so. What about knickers?”

“Later, lets do this first.”

The assistant was soon fixing and adjusting an assortment of bras while asking Olivia how she felt. The thirteen-year-old kid was secretly pleased to be getting some rare individual attention and was soon in her element as the assistant gently tugged and adjusted various different bras whilst explaining in detail what tensions and shoulder strap positions were best for her shape. As they chatted, Olivia became more and more confident and less shy. Eventually, they had exhausted the sales stock and the assistant paused before speaking to Barbara.

“I've got some more designs in the normal stock if you're interested Miss.”

The assistant asked Olivia whilst exchanging knowing looks with the older Barbara who was the obvious payer.

Olivia glanced hopefully up at Barbara who nodded indulgently. She could hardly refuse a thirteen-year-old girl her first proper bra fitting. It was, after all, one of the most rewarding 'mother-daughter' interludes in any woman's life.

“Thanks Nina.” Olivia remarked and Barbara was pleased to see real gratitude in the kid's eyes. Her use of the endearing term 'Nina' also sent a rush of pleasure through Barbara's breast. They chatted briefly and Olivia gave Barbara a desperate hug of gratitude before the assistant returned with several samples.

“These are thirty two and thirty four B's and C's miss. They are about your size. I've also brought matching pants”

Olivia's eyes widened with appreciation and she glanced nervously towards Bab's as she commenced testing the bra's.

“You don't have to try the knickers miss, unless you want to see how they look. I have judged you to be a size six to eight.”

Olivia looked up sheepishly.

“Can I try the pants, I just want to see.”

With an unexpected primordial tacit understanding of mothers for daughters, Barbara nodded and stepped outside the cubicle with the assistant, both adults had recognised Olivia's embarrassment about her old threadbare underwear.

“You can look now,” Olivia whispered through the curtain.

“We don't need to see darling. If they fit and look good then that's a given.”

“Please Nina. I just want you to see. I want your opinion.”

Barbara exchanged a glance with the assistant who nodded encouragement.

“Can the assistant come in as well?”

There was a brief pause then Olivia agreed.

The two entered to find a thirteen-year-old girl who could have passed for an undersized lingerie model. Barbara nodded and smiled.

“Perfect darling. We'll take half a dozen different styles and throw out any of your old stuff you don't want. when we get home.”

As Olivia wrapped her arms tightly around Barbara the assistant's eyes lit up with a 'Ka-ching! Sign.

“We can do a special deal because of the fitting session charge. I'll give you a ticket to present at the tills, it's also good for clothes.”

“That'll be useful, she needs jeans and / or leggings and some pretty tops as well as some tee-shirts and a pair of new trainers. Those look as though she's run a marathon in a quarry.”

As Barbara listed the items she felt Olivia squeeze even tighter.

“Oooff! Go easy girl, you'll break my ribs or something.”

She felt her blouse getting wet and realised Olivia was crying. Unsure of how to comfort the girl, Barbara simply rubbed her arms up and down Olivia's bare back while flashing a concerned expression to the assistant until the tears abated. The assistant realised the intensity of the moment and simply stood silent whilst realising she was acting in some sort of chaperone capacity. As she stood watching uncomprehendingly Barbara mouthed silently to the assistant.

“She's from a care home, I'm fostering her.”

The assistant's eyes widened with dawning realisation then she nodded her understanding.

“I'll get some tissues madam. They're under my desk.”

“Thank you.” Barbara replied as she continued rubbing Olivia's back.

Eventually the tears stopped and Olivia got fully dressed. She grinned when she noticed how the new underwear accentuated her boobs and she flashed a grateful grin at Barbara who was checking the big mirror. Olivia felt like a million dollars, then Barbara brought her back to earth in the nicest possible way..

“Come on kid, there's more shopping to get through.”

“I've got to fix my make up Nina.”

Barbara chatted with the fitting assistant and explained more about Olivia;s circumstances while Olivia did the necessary. Eventually Olivia returned looking lovely and the assistant nodded approvingly.

“Good job young lady, always remember with make-up, less is more, especially with younger skin.”

Olivia stood visibly taller as Barbara finally ushered her away. As they left their purchases behind the sales counter to collect later, Olivia giggled.

“I didn't know shopping could be such fun. Where next?”

“Jeans and a pretty blouse I think, then leggings and some everyday tops.”

“What about trainers?”

“Later girl, we'll go for afternoon tea then do the shoes.”

And so the afternoon passed. It was four o'clock in the afternoon when Olivia's new phone rang unexpectedly.

“Who's that?” Barbara asked for she had only purchased the phone on the previous Thursday in anticipation of Olivia's arrival on the Friday. It was a cheap 'pay-as-you-go' phone but to Olivia it was the best thing Barbara could have bought, it was also another naked bribe.

“It's Lola, I've only got your and her numbers.”

“Well go on girl, answer it.”

“Hi Lola.”

“Hi Olivia, where are you?”
“Were down by the Hippodrome theatre having tea.”

“Have you finished all Bab's business?”

“Yeah, we did that this mornin'.”

“Can I speak to her a moment?”

Olivia passed the phone to Barbara with a puzzled frown.

“Why did n' she phone you?” Olivia asked.

“I switch it off girl. Once the business of the day is done, I don't like being disturbed.”

Barbara put Olivia's new phone to her ear and smiled.

“Yes. That'd be lovely, where shall we meet you?”

“Okay, yes, straight away, we've finished here anyway.”

She handed the phone back to Olivia.

“Get your stuff. Here, give me a couple of those bags.”

“Where are we going.”

“To the regatta then to Billy's boat the Rubicon. Aaron, and Shirley are there as well, with the family. Lola's coming to collect us over there by those boat steps.”

“Olivia's day was complete, she was going to the regatta after all. Hurriedly she gathered her shopping and the pair hustled to the steps . As they arrived at the agreed location, Olivia recognised Lola driving a little motorised jolly boat.”

“Cool!” She grinned as suddenly she was to be elevated from Groccle to boat-person.

She fidgeted impatiently as Lola came alongside, deftly secured the boat then unlocked the mesh security gate with her 'boat-owner's' key.

“Hi babes, whatchoo bought?”

Olivia opened one of the bags but Barbara cautioned her.

“Not here girl, wait until we get aboard Billy's boat. They could get wet with the antics and the dock water is not the cleanest stuff in Bristol.”

Within minutes the boat had crossed the harbour and Olivia was reunited with her own kind. With three other black kids cavorting around the two boats, it was a delight to be 'legitimate' and seen to be legitimate. Suddenly, Olivia felt free. As she stepped along the little pier she encountered an old man from the neighbouring boat. He had some paint brushes and several small paint-pots. He looked up as Olivia stopped to watch.

“Hello young lady, I thought Aaron and Shirley only had three children. You must be a cousin.”

“No I'm just a friend visiting with that white girl Lola.”

“Oh, you're Lola's friend, well any friend of Lola's is welcome here. Take care, don't fall in and watch my boat, the paint's wet just here. My name's Frank”

“What does that scene represent?”

“It's a scene from the Forest of Dean. My boat's simply called Dean.

“Oh. You should use more yellow to make the glade area paler where the sun is supposed to shine through.”

“Are you an artist young lady?”

“Yes, and I could do a better job than that.” She added a little too precociously.

The old man was nonplussed at the teenager's precocity. He got up off his little seat and promptly challenged her.

“All right young lady, show me. Here's the photograph of that particular glade.”

Olivia settled on the little stool and after little more than a minute's painting the old man nodded appreciatively.

“You've got yourself a job girl. That's bloody good and so fast as well.”

Olivia grinned. “How much you gonna' pay me?”

“How much d' you reckon. Ten quid a panel. There's five down each side of the cabin.”

“Make it twenty quid and I'm allowed to sign my name to each panel.”

“Well I'll be buggered, you're a right little capitalist aren't you?”

Olivia grinned pugnaciously before mimicking a west country beggar-lady.

“Oi've got three cats and a waif to feed kind zurr plus an old gran'ma.”

“The old man chuckled and stepped inside his galley only to reappear holding a can of coke and a can of beer.”

“Which one's fur mee kind zurr?” Olivia grinned.

“This is to drink a seal to the deal. To all artists. Cheers young lady.!”

Olivia raised her can of coke in salute and savoured the delightful feeling of being made totally welcome. She was still painting when she heard Lola's call.

“Olivia! Were going for dinner on the Great Britain. Where are yoooou!?”

“She's on the other side painting my boat panel.” Came an invisible reply.

Lola stepped around to find Olivia just finishing up the first decorative panel of Frank's boat. Lola chuckled.

“Well, I'll be buggered. That's brilliant Olivia.”

“She's got a rare talent,” Frank added, “She's decorating each panel.”

“Twenty pound per panel,” Olivia almost boasted.

“Tish, tish young lady! Always keep your business affairs private.” Frank warned her.

Lola's jaw sagged, “That's two hundred quid!”

“One or two panels a day, I'll be finished in week or a fortnight.”

“Then you'd better let Babs know you want to stay.”

Olivia's face fell. “Ah! Fuckkit” I forgot.

“Tut, tut young lady. Language now.”

Olivia span around to respond in her usual 'kid's-home' abusive manner then actually found herself restraining her tongue.

“Sorry Frank. There's something jus' got in the way of our deal.”

“And what's that?”

Lola intervened in case Olivia said something out of turn.

“She's returning to London on Tuesday or Wednesday.”

“Well she could finish them by Wednesday if she worked full time for Sunday to Midweek. It's two hundred smackers young lady.”

Olivia sucked her lip frustratedly.

“I'd have to travel to the docks from Lockside cottage every day.”

“Well you could sleep aboard. There's a two berth cabin in the bow.”

Olivia wagged her head as her hopes faced a dead end. She decided to come clean to Frank.

“I'm from a care home in Brixton. I'm out on licence to Barbara with a view to permanent fostering. I have to sleep at the Lock-gate keeper's Cottage every night.”

Frank grinned.

“Aaah! Now the full facts are revealed.”

“What-choo mean?” Olivia demanded.

“There's a solution for you my girl.”

“What?” Wondered Olivia as Lola also frowned uncertainly.

Apart from meeting Barbara, both girls had rarely enjoyed good experiences in care and they weren't expecting anything this time. Franks smile only seemed to add injury to insult.

Frank could see the resentment in Olivia's accusative gaze. It was obvious she thought frank was mocking her. He moved quickly to dispel the illusion.

“Young lady, this is not just my holiday boat. I stay here a lot during mid-week when work gets too onerous. You might be surprised to learn I spend most workdays here and go home to the Forest of Dean on weekends. Furthermore, my wife often stays over when she works in Bristol so if you stay here, she can be your chaperone.”

“Yeah but wharra'bout the licence order. Babs in my supervisor cum foster carer.”

“Ah! Silly Me!” Frank slapped his forehead for effect. “I forgot to mention, I'm deputy director of Bristol social services. I'll contact Joyce, she's your social worker isn't she?”

Olivia's jaw sagged with uncertainty. She was too afraid to hope. Then Frank's phone was answered. It was Joyce and Olivia could even detect the deferential tone through the muted call.

“Yes sir.”

“Hello Miss Banks or shall I call you Joyce. No. There's no trouble; you're dealing with a girl from London I understand, with a view to fostering her out to that strange lady on the canal.”

“Yes sir, but she's not a strange lady as such. She's got a real gift with handling LGBT., damaged kids. So what's happened?”

“Oh nothing much. It's not her, it's the kid Olivia.”

“Oh hell, nothing's happened, please tell me nothing's happened.”

“Calm down Miss Banks. Nothing's happened, the young lady in question is with me now. And her foster-mother is on the next boat not fifty feet away.”

Olivia and Lola could almost sense the gasp of relief from Joyce's end.

“Thank God for that. So what's the problem?”

“The kid's gifted, she's brilliant little artist. Did you know about this.”

“Yes. I saw some of her work in London. If we could only find some way to get her to benefit from it we could -”.

“Well, I've got good news Miss Banks.”

“Oh. What?”

“Olivia's just done a little paint job for me. She's painted one of the decorative panels on my boat.”

“Is it good?”

“It's a brilliant piece of work and I've offered her a small commission to paint the rest of the panels. Now as you know, she has to return to Brixton on Wednesday so she's only got two days to complete her commission. If she has to commute each morning from the cottage, she won't be able to complete, so I'm suggesting she stays overnight down here. There are plenty of bunks on my boat and my friend Billy's. She could sleep here on my boat and my wife can chaperone her or the canal lady can sleep here as well.”
“Will she be staying there tonight as well?”

“If you and the canal lady are agreeable, yes; and Monday and Tuesday as well.”

“Her name's Barbara. Can I speak to her?”

Frank nodded to Lola. “Can you ask her to come over?”

“We're a bit short of time, we've got dinner booked on the SS Great Britain.”

“Very well. I'll join you as far as the ship and we can talk on the way.”

Arrangements were quickly made and Olivia hugged herself tight with delight at the thought of sleeping in a bunk on a narrow boat. Barbara had agreed to also stay for the Sunday and Monday Night while Frank's wife agreed to stay on Tuesday night. Olivia would then go straight to the Station for the London train on Wednesday.

For Olivia things could not have turned out better. Four weeks later after kicking her heels with frustration as the bureaucratic wheels ground slowly through the motions. Olivia became a permanent fixture on the canal.

Bab’s new year’s resolution.

Chapter 4

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.

000ooo000

Barbara (AKA Bab’s), was just pouring a cup of tea when the anticipated call rang through. She was pretty certain it would be Lola, her oldest adopted transgendered daughter calling from the high-school with news about her exam results.
By the time she had put the kettle down and stepped across the kitchen to pick up her mobile, her younger adopted daughter Olivia had already appeared in the doorway. Her expression of eager anticipation and hope told Barbara everything as she picked up the phone.

“How’s she done?” Olivia demanded as she leant close to Barbara’s ear.

“Hold on girl. I’ve only just picked up the flipping phone!” Bab’s protested.

On the other end Lola let out a chuckle as she realised her younger sister Olivier had been waiting with as much anticipation as Lola had for Lola’s results. She could almost see Olivia hopping from foot to foot with excitement.

“So how’ve you done darling?” Barbara asked.

“As expected mum, A’s for both maths papers and physics; and a B in chemistry.”

Barbara felt a wave of relief and excitement sweep over her as Olivia let out a whoop of joy.

“Has she got in?” Olivia almost screeched impatiently.

“Yes. I’m in,” Lola confirmed to Bab’s while Olivia struggled to listen in. Lola continued talking to her adoptive mother.
“Let Olivia have the pleasure of telling Aaron and Shirley, they’ll be down on the boat just now, preparing to cruise the canal up to Gloucester.”
Barbara had hardly drawn breath to congratulate her adopted older daughter before the younger Olivia was dashing along the towpath to deliver the news. As she arrived at the marina she skidded perilously close to the water’s edge and scuffed up a shower of gravel against the beautiful new paintwork of Aaron and Shirley’s narrowboat. The racket of flying gravel against the metal side of the engine-room and after bedroom caused Aaron to come lunging out of the boat in high dudgeon.

“What the bloody hell’s going -! Oh it’s you, what’s happened?”

“Great news, Lola’s passed her exams and she’s got into uni!”

Aaron shouted the news to his wife Shirley who was in the galley preparing lunch. In response to Aaron’s call she popped her smiling face out of the galley window amidships.

“Celebrations tonight then?”

“Lola said you were off to Gloucester.” Olivia replied with a note of disappointment.

“We can always delay it a day if you and Lola want to have a celebration party, or alternatively, the two of you can come with us to Gloucester, and Barbara if she wants.”

“Gosh will there be room enough?”

“You’ve worked on this boat long enough to know she’s got ten berths. You and Lola can share the forward bedroom.”

“That’ll be brilliant, thanks aunty Shirley!”

“Now,” Aaron declared, “when you scrunched all that gravel against the engine-room decorated panel, did you chip any of your own handiwork.”

“I dunn’o,” Olivia giggled, “I can always tart it up if I have.”

“Yes, well it’s important young lady. There’s a ‘Best decorated boat’ competition in Gloucester dock regatta this weekend and we’ve entered it. Your artistry will be on display and if our boat wins, it’ll mean more work -and more money-, for you.”

Olivia’s eyes widened with anticipation and she immediately bent down to check the side of the narrow-boat for damage. Fortunately there was none but she guiltily rinsed then wiped the gravel dust off the panel. Aaron grinned and Olivia stepped aboard with all the familiarity of the fourth child she had virtually become in Aaron and Shirley’s family.
Shirley had already opened the biscuit barrel as she added.

“Aaron’s picking up our three later, d’ you want to go with him and pick up Lola.”
Olivia nodded eagerly as she bit into the biscuit. A trip into Bristol was always welcome. After offering her thanks she skipped back to the lock cottage and cleared the arrangements with Barbara.

“You’d best phone Lola and organise a rendezvous in town if you’re meeting her in Bristol.” Bab’s advised. “Oh and if you’re going up to the regatta, you might as well tow my little open cabin cruiser behind the narrow boat. It won’t be much fun at the regatta with all of you squeezed into Aaron’s little jolly boat.

Soon everything was organised on various mobiles and by five o’clock, Aaron and the five kids were back at the marina.
At six, they departed up the canal towards Gloucester and it was just getting dark as they edged their way into Gloucester docks to moor at their pre-arranged berth. As a treat, Aaron and Shirley let the youngest kids stay up and they went for a stroll around the historic docks before stopping for a pizza at one of the several cafes still open. It was close to midnight as the exhausted younger children crashed into their bunks while Lola celebrated her exam results with Olivia and the adults over some bottles of champagne.

Needless to say, the two ‘younger adults’ over-indulged the celebrations and did not emerge from the forward cabin until Saturday noon – and only then after Aaron’s oldest son Mickey had been sent to wake them at eleven.

“Sleep well?” Babs inquired with a wide grin as the bleary-eyed pair finally crept into the narrow-boat’s main saloon.

“Uuuuuuuuugh!” Olivia moaned softly as Lola giggled guiltily.

“That’ll teach you to over-indulge!” Bab’s censured them mildly, “the others have gone to the waterways museum, you’d best get yourselves tidied up, they’re judging the boats at three.”

Both teenagers sagged into the comfy chairs while they nursed their mugs of coffee.

“My head hurts!” Olivia groaned.

“You’ll learn.” Babs opined as she sipped her tea. “You’d best go and hide ashore when the judges come. Have you left your cabin tidy?”

“I thought it was just the best decorated boat.” Lola protested.

“Yeah, well cabins decorated with unmade beds and scattered towels carry points against. Go and tidy it up before you go to the museum.

“Let’s just finish our coffees first please Nina” Olivia begged.

“You’re a right pair of lightweights you two!” Barbara teased them. “Go on! Get those coffees down you and then get to work. I’ll be in there at two to check up.”

True to her word, Babs checked in on the girls and found things satisfactory. She cut them some cake in readiness for Aaron’s return with his family and when the family returned, a quick snack was consumed to allow all the kids to make themselves scarce before the judges descended on their boat. Lola took the younger children to the cathedral and up the main tower to savour a fine view of the wide Severn valley and its river.

Olivia was intrigued by the wide and dramatic meanders because she had just had a physical geography lesson about rivers at school. When they returned to the boat, Aaron was holding a cheque as a prize for their success in the boat decoration competition.

“Apart from the money,” Aaron explained particularly to Olivia, “They were extremely impressed with your art-work! One of the judges has left his card with a suggestion concerning you and the royal academy. You’re really good kid.”

“But I can’t go to the royal academy yet, I’ve only just turned fifteen.”

“They’re not interested in your age girl, just the quality of your work. Their offer is for the future if you’re still interested. There’s obviously an academic side to their interest as well, but it’s a brilliant start kiddo!

Olivia fell into a thoughtful silence that Babs immediately picked up on.

“What’s wrong. Don’t you want to go to the academy?”

Olivia continued her silent introspection so Babs pushed a little harder but gently.

“If they’re interested in your work already, it’ll be a fabulous chance girl. Besides, your don’t have to go until your eighteen. Plenty of time to make up your mind.”

Eventually, Olivia opened up.

“It’s in London isn’t it?”

“What? The royal academy? Yes of course it is.” Lola answered. “Just think, all those fabulous museums, art galleries and exhibitions. You’ll be in your element.

“I don’t like London.” Olivia declared softly.

“Why ever not?” Lola wondered as Babs squinted at Olivia curiously.

“The gangs.” Olivia replied. “If I bump into a gang member they’re bound to try and mess with me again. You know, suck me down in to their stuff - drugs and all the other shit .”

A silence settled as the party mood changed to one of concern. Eventually Aaron tried to reassure the girl.

“London’s a big place darling. It’s very unlikely that you’d meet one of your old acquaintances. They operate south of the river don’t they?”

“Yeah, but. They infest the tube and now they’re involved in those scooter crimes; you know snatching wallets, scooter thefts, smash-and-grabs all over London. I could meet them anywhere, any time. They’d already marked me out as one of the S.S. kids and fair game before I came to live with Nina. I was lucky I moved down here; in fact it was one of the reasons I moved down here after what happened to my friend Angie.”

“But you’ll be moving in different circles darling,” Babs’ repeated, “Aaron’s right, the chance of encountering a gang or gang member is very small.”

“That’s as maybe, but I’ll always be looking over my shoulder, won’t I?”

“You can change your look girl.” Lola encouraged. “There’s a million ways a girl can alter her appearance. Even a pair of sunglasses or fake glasses can alter things; not to mention wigs and stuff. And anyway, you’ll look a lot different at eighteen than you do now.”

“We’ll see,” Olivia conceded glumly. “Anyway, there are plenty of other art colleges all over the country.”

Shirley had been busy with the food up until this juncture but eventually she joined the discussion.

“It doesn’t have to be all about Art kiddo. You’re pretty good at maths aren’t you.”

“Not as good as Lola.” Olivia conceded.

“That’s got nothing to do with it. I saw your mock results and you’re maths is okay. There’s always architecture and that requires good imagination as well as drawing skills and maths.”

“Well, we’ll see. I suppose Lola’s right, I can always disguise myself. But I do prefer art,” Olivia sighed resignedly. “I’ll just have to suck it and see. Come on, let’s take the jolly-boat and join the festivities.”

“That’s the spirit girl. Plenty of time yet.” Babs’ agreed, glad that the moment had temporarily passed.

As a treat, to cheer Olivia up, they allowed her and Mickey to take Babs’s little cruiser while Lola took the jolly boat. It was almost dark when the five children finally returned to the narrowboat soaking wet and thoroughly dishevelled.

“Water-wars!” Mickey explained joyfully as the five of them stripped off in the forward well before showering then gathering around the hot stove in the saloon.

“Who won?” Aaron chuckled as the five tucked into chocolate, wholemeal biscuits and hot cocoa.

“The two swans with the cygnets,” Lola confessed with a grin.

“They chased the two boys in the kayak and pecked them; then they pecked Olivia’s bum as she was sitting on the gunwale of the cruiser.” Mickey explained as he squealed with laughter.

“She should have shared her cake with them!” Aaron’s youngest daughter Bianca squawked joyfully. “That’s what Jessica and I did.”

“Bribery! Nothing but bribery!” Olivia snorted derisively. “You just watch, they’ll be pecking on the galley door in the morning, expecting more
‘Dane-geld’. By the way Uncle Aaron, is my bum bleeding?”

“Don’t be silly Olivia, they are swans not eagles.”

“But can you check?”

“Certainly not. Babs’ have a look just to put her mind at ease.”

“Turn around darling so the boys can’t see.”

Olivia turned around, lifted the hem of her dressing gown and tugged down the waistband of her knickers. Bab’s made a brief show of inspecting the supposedly injured butt then declared it undamaged. With dignity restored discussions fell to eating out and they ended up at a ‘Chinese’. As on the Friday, it was after midnight before they returned to the boat.

Not having imbibed at the Chinese restaurant, the children were up early on the Sunday while Bab’s had a lie in, in deference to her age. Aaron and Shirley woke shortly after the children, to find them feeding the swans at the amidships galley door just as Olivia had predicted.

“Where’s Lola?” Shirley asked.

Olivia nodded towards another narrowboat where Lola was chatting to some other girls who had also finished high-school that summer. Ever alert to Lola’s emerging independence, Shirley called across.

“We’re going into town. Bab’s has got the key and she’ll be following us later. Make sure you’ve got a key if you leave the boat.”

“Oooh! Can I go with Lola?” Olivia pleaded.

“Go and ask her then check with Babs’” Aaron replied.

Needing no further inducement, Olivia skipped ashore and approached Lola optimistically.

“Okay, but no mention of my trans’ stuff, okay. None of the girls know. I’ll ask if they’re happy about you coming.”

“Where are you going.”

“There’s a sister rock festival in the meadows across the river. It complements the regatta.”

Olivia’s eyes widened with anticipation then delight as Lola returned with the good news.

“It’s okay, go and check with Nina.”

A soft knock on Bab’s cabin door alerted her to a ‘soft approach’ seeking a favour. Bab’s knew her adopted daughters only too well.

“Coo-ome in,” she sighed expectantly.

“D’ you want a cup of tea Nina?”

“And what do I have to do in return?” Bab’s grinned knowingly.

“Ah Nina! Have we ever-?”

“Yes, frequently. What is it this time?”

“Dammit, foiled again!” Lola giggled before pressing her suit.

“Can Olivia come with us to the music festival across the river?”

“Do you promise to keep an eye on her, she’s only fifteen remember.”

“Yes. Please can we have money for tickets?”

“I knew that was coming next.”

Bab’s reached into her handbag and took out the requested sum before once more cautioning Lola to look after her younger sister.

“I mean it now! Look after her, you know how headstrong she can be!”

With permission granted, Olivia finally sneaked into Bab’s bedroom and plumped down on the bed to hug her adoptive nan.

“Thanks Nina, I promise I’ll be back before ten.”

“You’d better be girl or your grounded until forever! And keep your mobiles to hand, you never know when there’s a problem or something!”

“We promise Nina,” Lola agreed as she brought in the tea and toast on a tray.

Then she turned to her younger sister.

“Come on. Let’s get ready. I’m going to have to get you ready if you want to look eighteen.”

“No drinking girls. It’s okay when your amongst us adults but out there, there’s plenty of traps for the unwary.”

By the time the girls were ready, Bab’s was up, dressed and lounging in the fore well while savouring the summer sun. Lola and Olivia emerged to meet the three other girls from the family boat in the next berth.

“Nina these are Jackie, Sandra and Julie. Sandra’s parents are still aboard and these are their mobile numbers.”

Bab’s duly made a note of the mobile numbers and double checked with Sandra’s parents in the next boat.

“Now, Lola, I don’t have to warn you, you know already how stuff can go pear shaped, so remember. You other girls, listen to Lola, she’s been there and her girldar is fine-tuned!”

“What’s girldar?” Jackie asked.

“Teenaged girl radar young lady. It’s like gaydar but more sensitive.” Bab’s explained. “Keep it switched on at all times.”

The last comment Bab’s heard amidst the giggling and banter was ‘Your nan’s a star Lol’

Shortly before lunch Babs’s phone rang with an invitation from Aaron and Shirley to join them for lunch down by the river.

“Then we can pay a brief visit to the music festival. Not for long though. Bianca and Jessica have had enough late nights,” Shirley opined with half an eye on Babs’s stamina as well. Active though she was, Babs’ was getting on in years.

After a light lunch they crossed the river and entered the field where the music festival was in full swing.

“Let’s not bother the older girls,” Aaron suggested. “We don’t want to appear to be spying on them.”

“They’re probably in the crowd by the main stage.” Shirley observed. “I’m more interested in finding a suitable violin for Mickey. He’s outgrown his old one, though Bianca has shown some interest in learning, so she can use his old one.”

“The shopping tents are over there,” Bab’s observed. “D’ you want me to take Mickey while the girls go on the rides?”

“That’s very kind of you. Can you play the violin?”

“I play the fiddle,” Bab’s grinned, “well I used to but I haven’t done so for several years now. Not since the group I belonged to had an accident in their van and one of them was killed. I lost heart after that.”

“Oh I’m sorry to hear that.” Shirley commiserated. “Have you never played since then?”

Bab’s wagged her head silently and Shirley quickly sensed that the memory for Bab’s was painful. She let the matter drop as Bab’s led Michael to the instrument stalls while Aaron and Shirley let Bianca and Jessica loose on the rides.

It was close to four o’clock when Babs’s phone rang, - it was a distressed Olivia.

“Hello darling, how’s things?” Bab’s asked.

“Not good Nina. I’ve just spotted Jason and Tyson. They were two of the gang that used to abuse the girls at the home. They are with a group of other men I don’t recognise but they’re definitely dealing here on the field.”

“Shit! Did they recognise you?”

“No. Julie lent me her sunglasses and my hoodie covered my hair.”

“Are you together?”

“No, that’s just it. Lola, Julie and I are together but Sandra and Jacki have gone to the front of the crowd, they’re fans of the group that’s playing on stage now.”

“Well. They should be safe in the crowd.”

“That’s just it though. Julie says that Jackie is a bit of an idiot when it comes to trying drugs. If she finds out that there are drugs around, she’ll be there like a shot.”

“Can I speak to Lola darling?”

Olivia handed her mobile to Lola.

“Hello Nina. What d’ you think?”

“Stay together and try and reach the other two.”

“Olivia says the two boys she knows are real trouble. They deal in crack-cocaine and used other drugs to date-rape the girls in the home when she was there, and they are not fussy about forcing a girl to take the drugs if they can get away with it. I must say, the other people in the gang don’t look very savoury either. Olivia’s really spooked!”

“Look, I’m by the tent that sells instruments. Make your way to me while I call Aaron and Shirley.”
Within five minutes, all of Aaron and Bab’s group were gathered but Julie was particularly worried about Sandra and Jackie as she explained.

“Sandra’s not the sharpest knife in the box and she can be easily led but Jackie’s just wilful at venues like this. She’s always looking for extra kicks. Though I’m more worried about Sandra than Jackie.”

“I think we’d better speak to the police.” Bab’s opined. “Olivia, d’ you want to come with me and point the gang out.”

“Will I be safe? The last thing I want is to be outed by some dumb copper. These guys are dangerous. In the home, two girls disappeared and we were convinced Tyson had something to do with it. One of the girls was a really good friend and I know she would never have just ‘dropped out of sight’ willingly. The last guy she mentioned to me was Tyson and he was the last guy I saw her with. I really miss her cos she was one of the few really bright kids in the home.

None of us were safe, the gang members could come and go at will cos the social workers turned a blind eye. Secretly I think they were afraid of the gang.”

As the pair crossed the field to the security tent Bab’s eventually spotted a police incident transit van with several uniformed officers.

“There they are,” Bab’s declared with some relief.

Then Olivia’s hand grabbed Babs’s as she cursed softly.

“And there’s bloody Tyrone. He’s another of the gang, the sneaky one. He’s the lookout, just wait here by this music stall and watch. See, every time any of the cops leaves the group he’ll be telling his mates around the crowd in front of the stage. Just stand here a while and watch.”

Babs watched dumbstruck as Olivia’s observations proved correct. Two officers left the police compound and immediately Tyrone was speaking into his phone.

Olivia added, “If I go to the cops out there in the open, Tyrone will realise I’m a black girl and he’ll be doubly curious. Have a look around; there’s not many of the sisters on the field, are there?”

“So how do we do this?” Bab’s wondered out aloud.

“I’ll wait here, you walk over to the police. Tell them I’ve got information about a drug gang operating at the festival then arrange a hidden rendezvous. Text me with instructions and I’ll slip by them. There’s an exit at the back of this marquee. I’ll go out that way. Try and organise a plain clothes copper, any black girl talking to the police will alert the brothers.”

Bab’s strolled away and eventually sauntered towards the police van as though she was casually visiting the display laid out by the drug abuse team. Once inside the tent, she struck up a conversation with one of the officers and explained that she had an anonymous but very reliable source about some drug dealers who had started operating at the festival. Always keen for good intelligence the officer immediately made some calls and Bab’s was quickly introduced to a higher ranking officer via her mobile.

Upon promising them solid information concerning a gang that was currently active at the festival they agreed to speak to Olivia on her mobile. After that, it was all done by mobile phone and Olivia was thoroughly relieved to not even go near any police. While Olivia sat eating a burgher, three plain-clothes members of the drug squad unwittingly sauntered past Olivia just as they were being described to her by the control room. Olivia recognised them and reported back.

“I think I’ve just spotted your officers; they look like three scruffy tree-huggers. One’s got a purple jacket and another one’s got a knitted multicoloured scarf. The third one is a girl in a long pleated skirt.”

“That’s them young lady. Now the lady called Bab’s has explained you want to remain anonymous so we’ll respect your wishes. “First however, I ‘ve got to thank you for your assistance. This how we do it. You know who these vermin are so all you do is stroll around the field whilst chatting into your mobile just like teenaged girls do all the time. I’ve patched you through to our comms unit so every word you say will be monitored by the whole team on the field today. You know who they are so when you see one of them dealing, describe them and advise our team of the location. Your friend Barbara has described your coat with the hoodie so if you don’t wish to be exposed, keep your coat on and your hoodie up. I’ve now got two plain-clothes men watching your back very discreetly while the others will be following your instructions young lady; and once again, thank you.”

It wasn’t long before Olivia spotted a deal going down and she warned the drug team of the modus operandi. She watched with a deep visceral satisfaction as Jason was caught red handed with several bags and a lot of incriminating cash. Once she saw them take Jason down she briefly revealed his full name and the last address she had for him.

“Strike one!” Olivia congratulated herself silently. It didn’t pay to chatter too much on the mobile. The police may have got her mobile number but they still didn’t know who she actually was or what she looked like. Then she spotted Tyson arguing with a group of people she did not recognise. They looked to be Asian whereas Tyson was white while Jason and Tyrone were black. Tyson did not look very happy so Olivia became a little bolder. Once she was certain that Tyson was definitely connecting somehow with the Asian people she advised her contact on the mobile. There was a long pause then Olivia spotted two of the plain-clothes ‘tree-huggers’ casually drifting out of the crowd towards where Tyson and the Asian people were now talking calmly. Then her mobile came alive.

“Is that your man in the Leather wind-cheater?”

“Yes – and the dark grey denim jeans.”

“Right young lady. We suggest you back off casually. The Asian people are a suspected rape gang though they don’t usually operate at festivals. They tend to target vulnerable kids alone on the streets at night but they may have worked out another modus.”

The mention of ‘rape-gangs’ now appearing at festivals made Olivia’s blood boil.

Olivia was well aware that wayward kids often blagged their way into festivals, indeed she had done so on many an occasion herself and hardly even been reprimanded when she sneaked back to the children’s home, - three days late in on instance. The social workers were just glad she had returned, - ‘like a bad penny’- one of the carers had declared; as Olivia was described as ‘nothing but trouble’.

Having walked the walk on the festival circuit at the tender age of thirteen and fourteen, Olivia was street-wise to many the tricks to survival. Often she had taken her drawing materials and earned a few bob illegally selling portraits without a trader’s permit until getting caught. Sometimes, despite her lesbianism, she even ‘put out’ if things got desperate when the weather had turned bad and she needed somewhere dry to spend the night; though she always insisted on a condom. Naturally she had also had to fight off unwanted advances so she was well inured to men and their unwelcome endeavours. She herself had experienced a rape-gang member trying to groom her and knew full well what techniques they employed.

After seeing the consequences of other girls sucked into the trade and the effects of various drugs employed, Olivia had grown to detest the assorted gangs that preyed on girls.

Now however, she was ‘legal’ at this particular festival and glad to be able to ‘get back’ at the same sort of vermin who had made her earliest teen-aged years a hell. From the safety of food stalls and her ‘hoodie’ she watched with visceral satisfaction as the police went in mob-handed and pandemonium broke out as rape gang members were forced to scatter.

Content that some sort of justice was being meted out for once against such as those who had caused her so much anguish, Olivia turned and bought herself a hot hamburger to sit back and enjoy the show. Eventually the furore died down and she needed to go for a wee. After checking on the phone that the London gang had been rounded up as well as the Asian rape gang she went to the lavatory area and saw Lola walking across the field seemingly also destined for the ‘port-a-loos’.

“Hey sis! Are going were I’m going?”

Lola’s head turned with relief as she answered.

“Ahh! There you are, have you seen Jackie?”

“Isn’t she with Sandra, by the stage?”

“No, Sandra and she got separated and we can’t find Jackie.”

“Have you told the police?” Olivia checked.

“Yes, but they’ve got their hands full. A couple of the gang members got away.

“What, the Asians or Tyrone and Tyson.”

“Definitely Tyson and probably Tyrone. The Police were geared up to net the rape gang from Birmingham.”

“Fuck!” Olivia cursed loud enough to turn heads around her. She realised her mistake and whispered nervously to Lola. “Dammit! How did Tyson avoid being arrested? He’s the worst of the London gang and I’m convinced he’s in with the Asians.”

“He probably got away cos he’s white. The police were pre-occupied with the Asians.”

“No, I definitely described those London bastards to the police. Tyson’s a clever bastard. He’s obviously pulled of some stunt or switch.”
The pair stayed together as they queued for the loos and Olivia took the opportunity to use Lola’s phone to speak to Aron and Babs. Her own phone was still patched into the police network. Having assured the adults that she was safe but still working with the police on her own mobile, she resumed chatting to Lola about the gangs and her fears for Jackie.

“Tyson’s by far the worst of the bunch and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he’s somehow tied up with the rape gang.”

As they waited in the loo-queue, Olivia became increasingly nervous. She knew she was exposed and if Tyson or Tyrone approached the queue there was a much higher risk of exposure as and when she entered the ‘port-aloo’ cubicles. To better hide, she leaned closer into Lola to hide her face while seemingly chatting to her friend.

“So what does this Tyson look like?” Lola asked.

“He’s quite tall and actually quite handsome; he uses those attributes to suck girls in. My friend Angela told me that he was offering her cocaine but she refused to take it, then she woke up one morning not knowing where she was or how she got there. I heard them arguing in the street outside the home then I saw him almost dragging her into his car. That was the last I ever saw of her.”

“Did you go to the police?”

“What good would that do. They don’t care. We’re just scum to them. Look what happened in Rotherham.”

“That’s bloody crazy!” Lola almost screeched. “They’ve got their act together now. Anyway, you’re actually talking to them now, even as we speak.”

“Only cos I can see them doing summat for once. They got Jason bang to rights and that’s a start. Anyway, these cops aren’t the Met. Go on, that one’s just emptied, it’s your turn.”

Lola completed her business then emerged to realise that Olivia had gone to another cubicle. After a few minutes Olivia emerged and as they met, Olivia’s expression turned to one of fear.

“Shit! There’s Tyson and he’s got a tray of coffees, where’s he going? Cover me Lola!”

Olivia leaned in close to Lola again and spoke into her phone.

“Hello. Yes it’s me again. I’ve just seen one of the London gang. His name’s Tyson. Yes, white with light brown to dirty blond hair. He’s also changed his jacket. It’s now a red leather biker’s jacket with black and white flashes on the front and sleeves. He’s got a cardboard tray with coffees and he’s walking towards the trees where the picnickers are gathered. Yes, he’s about six -two and he’s got a small scar over his left eye.”

Lola eavesdropped the police response and felt Olivia’s hand grip her waist in what she concluded could only be fear.

“It’s okay now sis. You heard them, they’re onto it.”

“I won’t feel safe until I see him and Tyrone in cuffs.”

Olivia’s phone spoke again and she replied suspiciously.

“I’m not sure. I didn’t count them. There were about three or four, maybe five. He was over fifty yards away. It could not have been more than six, it was one of those green and white cardboard trays.”

“Thank you again young lady. It gives us some idea of what we might be dealing with.”

“Oh! There’s something else. He might be drugging the coffees with rohypnol, the date rape thing. That’s how I think he snared Angie.”

“Angie who?” Came back the police operator.

Olivia tensed as she realised her mistake. She had never reported Angie’s abduction partly through mistrust of the London Metropolitan Police and partly through fear of the gangs.

“Fuck!” She cursed as her fearful grip tightened and began to hurt Lola’s waist.

“Ow. Easy there sis. Your hurting.”

“Let’s go back to Babs and Aaron.”

“They’re with the police by the incident van.” Lola explained.

“Dammit. Can you call Babs again and tell them I want to meet them by the food vans. Not the one that uses green cardboard coffee trays; meet us by the cream and red Thai food kitchen. It’s busy and we can hide in the crowded tent.”

Even as they crossed the field towards the food vans Olivia’s mood relaxed as she saw a high ranking police officer talking to some more plain-clothed colleagues. She hesitated for a moment to watch then realised she could tell the police exactly where Tyson had entered the trees. She tugged Lola’s sleeve to indicate her intentions and explained to the police operator on her phone. Having done this, she asked Lola to go and tell the police inspector.

“Just ask him to stay close to you and you watch my back as I approach the trees. I’m not going into the glade, but I’ll tell the police when I spot them.”

“By liasoning with Police control, Lola soon had Inspector’s attention but she inadvertently identified Olivia’s hoodie to the inspector and Olivia’s previous mention of somebody called ‘Angie’ had piqued the inspector’s curiosity.
The anonymous girl might have some information concerning one of several young drug addicts who had been recovered from the Asian sex-gang’s lair in Birmingham.

Babs’ New-years’ Resolution 5

List of Characters

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Chapter 5

Olivia pulled the storm beak of her hoodie down over her forehead, replaced her sunglasses then pulled the cheek-strap drawstring over her lower jaw so virtually none of her face was recognizable. Lola wagged her head at her ‘sister’s’ endeavours but sympathised with her desperate need to avoid recognition. After her own experiences of being taped up and then dumped in a black bin bag in a freezing icy stream by some crazy transphobe, she thoroughly understood Olivia’s fear. Once Olivia moved towards the glade of trees, Lola located the police inspector and crossed the field to where he was scanning the crowds.

He noticed her approaching and immediately realised she was the companion of the anonymous informant who had so successfully led them to the Asian rape gang and the Black London gangster who had been dealing in class A drugs all afternoon. The inspector had had a very successful afternoon and was preparing to wind down their operation until the anonymous informant had mentioned somebody called ‘Angie’ in the same sentence as drug addiction and kidnap.

He, the inspector, had this worrisome case where several young girls had been rescued from an Asian rape-gang’s brothel in Birmingham and they were so damaged by drug overdoses and distressed by sexual abuse, that they could hardly remember who they were. One of the girls spoke with an estuarine accent very similar to the anonymous informant and the inspector now wished to locate that informant again and speak to her. That girl had inadvertently declared her name to be ‘Angie’ and the anonymous informant had mentioned the name in casual conversation to Lola. The inspector watched the companion frequently turning to look towards the glade of trees as she walked towards him. As she came in earshot he called.

“Are you connected to the girl who’s informing on the gang?”

“Why d’ you want to know?” Lola riposted.

“Which one is she?”

“Why d’ you want to know?”

“Just now we overheard her talking to you about a girl called Angie and drugs. Do you know anything about that?”

“Yes. She had a friend called Angela. The girl was kidnapped and the police did nothing. She saw it happen just below her window in the children’s home but now she so distrusts the police that she doesn’t want anything to do with them.”

The inspector sighed. “Why doesn’t that surprise me. We’ve got a kid called Angie being treated in a dependency unit in Birmingham. She was found in a brothel run by Asians.” Can you point your friend out?”

“Not in that crowd, she’s gone amongst the trees.

Just at than moment Olivia’s voice came over the Inspector’s com’s.

“I can see them. There’s three of them, Tyson, Tyrone and Jackie. They’re drinking coffee.”

Before Olivia had finished the inspector had spoken to his plain-clothed unit and pointed his hand towards the glade of trees. Lola watched as a dozen men and women started to approach the glade from the field. The inspector then turned to Lola.

“You’d better stay with me, are Tyrone and Tyson members of the same London gang?”

“Yes. Be very careful. My friend does not want those two to find out who dobbed them in.”

The inspector then spoke to the anonymous informant again on the police com’s.

“Young lady, you described the one in the red leather biker’s jacket. What’s the other one wearing?”

“Same sort of thing; a biker's leather jacket but mostly white with black piping. They’ve got three helmets with them as well. The third helmet must be Jason’s. Have they come down from London on bikes?”

“Yes, we think so but we don’t know where they parked their bikes.”

“They must be close by.” Olivia opined. “They didn’t have the helmets with them earlier so they must be planning to leave without Jason.”

The inspector took on board Lola’s information about the informant not trusting the police and reflected that the Rotherham scandal surrounding Asian rape gangs and police negligence had done untold damage to the police reputation. He knew he was going to have to be extremely diplomatic and sensitive if he was going to keep the unidentified informant on board. He spoke again over the com’s.

“Young lady, you’ve been unbelievingly helpful. Do you know the addresses of any of the gang members?”

“Yes,” Olivia replied and she gave them Tyson’s address.

A quick check confirmed that there was no motorbike registered to the address but a BMW car was. He described the car to Olivia who confirmed it as Tyson’s car.

“I cant remember that particular registration number but Tyson has; or rather had, a black ‘beamer’.”

“It’s still registered to him. Thank you very much young lady. The motor-bikes are probably stolen.”

There was a pause then Olivia came back.

“They’ve most probably stolen them then bought the jackets and helmets. Oh shit their moving out and taking Jackie with them! For fuck's sake be quick. They’re heading for the main exit. Jackie looks confused, I’ll bet they’ve drugged her coffee!”

Lola was silently impressed at the swift response of the police team for she had already spotted more uniformed police starting to gather at the main entrance and exits. She turned to the inspector.

“Can I speak to my friend over that com’s thing you’ve got.”

“What d’ you want to talk about.”

“Her missing friend Angie. You mentioned the girl you’ve found in Birmingham and it could be her friend. If I tell her she might respond more positively. I know they used to be best friends in the children’s home. She talked a lot about her.”

The inspector could see a valuable opportunity so he immediately handed the com’s to Lola and nodded. Olivia was surprised to hear Lola’s voice come through the police number. Lola explained about the Angie case in Birmingham and Olivia immediately responded.

“Ask the inspector to describe her.”

Lola immediately sensed Olivia’s concerns but had to explain.

“The inspector would have to check back with his colleagues in Birmingham police. That could take some time.”

The inspector spotted a fantastic opportunity and explained to Lola whilst hoping the unidentified informant would overhear the offer he made.

“Tell your friend we’ll take her to Angie’s bed-side in Birmingham right now if she’s prepared to help us further. If she can identify this Angie girl it’ll help everybody.”

Lola spoke into the com’s.

“Did you hear that Sis? You can check if it’s Angela and if it is, you’ll have your friend back.”

“If she’s addicted, I might never get her back. I know what those drugs can do! Besides, they’ll only take her back to London, back to the shit-hole. She’ll fall straight back into the gang’s hands.”

“They might let her stay with us at Babs’s cottage.” Lola suggested hopefully.

Olivia snorted disbelievingly.

“No bloody way. You and I both know how lucky we were to land up with Babs. Besides, there’s no more room at the cottage. Anyway, if she’s that badly addicted, she’ll only do a runner to find more drugs. I wouldn’t want to overload Babs with a serious junkie.”

“Well at least take the inspector up on his offer. If it is your Angie, it’ll mean that Tyson goes down for a long time.”

As Lola spoke a commotion at the exit gate confirmed that Tyson and Tyrone had been arrested and the inspector confirmed this to the unidentified informant.

“The remaining gang members have been arrested in possession of substantial amounts of money and drugs and we’re checking the girl named Jackie right now.”

Both Lola and the inspector could almost feel Olivia’s relief through the com’s and Lola seized the opportunity with both hands. She spoke again to Olivia through the Police Com’s.

“Come on babe’s. If you tell this nice inspector guy everything, we’ll get a free trip to Birmingham.”

“We?” Olivia queried.

“Hell yes. You don’t think I’m going to pass on a free trip to Birmingham with all those shops. Just think!” Lola giggled.

The inspector frowned.

“This is a serious matter miss.”

Lola pulled a mock frown and riposted.

“So is shopping inspector.”

“He could not suppress his smile for he now had many more evidential tools to crack the trafficking case - on top of the drugs busts. He conceded the favour to Lola.”

“Alright then. Arrange to meet your friend and sort your stuff out while I sort out the arrest business at the exit gate.” You can stay in touch on your friend's phone.

Lola needed no further encouragement and she trotted of across the field to find Olivia debating the purchase of a Thai meal or a beef-burger and salad. After making their purchases they located Babs, Aaron and the rest of the party. Sandra and Julie were particularly relieved to learn that Jackie had been snatched from the grip of Tyson and Tyrone.

An hour later, Aaron had taken a taxi with Sandra and Julie to the Goucester hospital to check on their friend Jackie while Babs accompanied her adopted daughters down to Gloucester police headquarters. There Olivia enjoyed the deep visceral delights of seeing Tyson and Tyrone arraigned alongside Jason and a score of Asian criminals for multiple offences including drug dealing, theft and human trafficking. She was also relieved that they could not see her through the ‘one-way glass’

After the protracted interviews with the inspector and a lady police sergeant, they shared coffee and biscuits with Babs and her charges, then they travelled in a police car to the hospital to rendezvous with Aaron Sandra and Julie. Jackie was nearly recovered from the effects of the Rohypnol and the police were waiting to interview her as a victim.

Later, back at the Gloucester Police HQ, the inspector explained how far they had gone in exposing the Rape gang operating countrywide but centred in London and Birmingham. When he showed Olivia photographs of the rescued Angie, Olivia tearfully confirmed it was her friend although from the earlier pictures from the brothel, she hardly recognised the grey-skinned sunken eyed skeletal mask. It was only the later pictures after several weeks in the rehab unit that she could definitely confirm it was her friend Angie.

“Can she be cured of the addiction?” Olivia wept as she asked the inspector who had now wholly gained Olivia's trust..

“I’ll be totally honest Olivia and say I don’t know. Your tears tell me that you know how hard it is to get off some stuff so I’ll not lie. All I can say is that we’ll be doing everything we can because Angie is a vital witness, as of course, you are. Now are you prepared to come up to Birmingham tomorrow and meet this Angela?”

Olivia nodded as she squeezed Lola’s hand.

“Will it help her recover?” Olivia asked hopefully.

“Well we are hoping you can jog her memory about your shared times at the children’s home and that might help her recover some of her life experiences. The doctors can’t tell yet if the memory block is purely a psychiatric issue of if there’s been chemical damage to her brain.

They’re still analysing her blood samples because the forensic people think they might have experimented with some new type, illicit drugs while they had her imprisoned.”

“Bastards! Bastards, bastards, bastards!!” Olivia screamed. “Yes! I’ll be there. Anything to get Angie back!”

“Excellent young lady,” the inspector beamed, “Sergeant Davis will pick you up at the cottage in an unmarked car at eleven tomorrow morning, is that okay?”

Olivia nodded as she stood up and reached out to hug the inspector who self-consciously returned the embrace whilst silently grateful that the older lady Babs was immediately to hand. The next morning the lady police sergeant arrived at the appointed time and Babs’s little family was whisked off to Brum.

Babs’ New year’s Resolution
Chapter 6.

Before the police car set off for Birmingham, the lady sergeant took Bab’s aside while the girls debated what to wear.

“Right Miss Smith, might I respectfully ask that you let the younger girl Olivia ride up front with me. It will give her some sense of worth and importance and I’m hoping she’ll open up a bit.”

“That’s fine by me, and call me Babs, that should lighten the mood.”

The sergeant studied the girls as they appeared dressed to kill in the shortest mini-skirts she had ever seen. She grinned at Babs.

“I think their mood’s light enough, don’t you?”

Babs studied the girls and wagged her head with a smile.

“Couldn’t you find any skirts short enough girls?”

“This is how Angie and I used to dress in London.” Olivia argued. “It might help to jog her memory.”

Babs and the sergeant exchanged knowing, but slightly worried smiles while Lola’s face turned defensively pink.

“Go on, get in,” chuckled Babs as she chose a back seat for herself and caught Lola’s eye inviting her to join her.

Lola immediately grasped the import and Olivia somehow found herself left with the front passenger seat as the only option. She paused while glancing suspiciously at Babs.

“Are you getting in Oliva?” The sergeant asked innocently.

Olivia shrugged and slid easily into the only remaining seat. As she momentarily struggled with the four-point safety harness she grinned.

“What is this, a bloody formulae one car or summat?”

“Extra safety young lady. If we get involved in a police chase, we are not easily recognised as a patrol car so we are more vulnerable. Four point full harnesses protect you better even if the car gets rolled.”

There was a brief pregnant silence before the sergeant continued.

“Uuhm; we will NOT be involved in any chases today.”

“Aww. There’s a pity,” Lola giggled.

Olivia had seen several of her care-home friends involved in different car crashes; often in police pursuits and some fatally. She didn’t smile. Sensing there was some hurt in Olivia’s demeanour, Lola fell silent. After several minutes the silence became painful so Babs changed the subject and the atmosphere lightened appreciably as they started to chatter freely. As the girls kept nattering away, Babs’ noticed the sergeant cunningly extracting useful information from the thirteen-year-old Olivia by way of casual conversation.

When they arrived in Birmingham, Olivia’s relationship with the kidnapped girl Angie had been established as two young teenaged, lesbian lovers and the psychiatrists surmised that the girls had probably been intimate. Olivia however had never alluded to any intimacy.

“What price charges of under-aged sex?” Babs wondered silently as they pulled into the police parking slots at Birmingham hospital.

In her long life as a transsexual, Babs had recalled many stories of ‘pyjama parties involving teenaged intimacy under sixteen; occasionally even lesbian explorations, because most parents with daughters naturally refused to allow boys up the stairs in the family home whilst female friends were welcome.

“And no doubt,” Babs reminded herself, “things would have been even more licentious in the children’s homes.”

When Olivia’s relationship to Angie was confidentially related to the Inspector and the hospital medical team, they surprised Babs by actually endorsing the fact and encouraging Olivia. The explanation to Babs became obvious once it was revealed as one of the psychiatric team explained.

“If there’s an intense emotional and sexual relationship between the two girls, then the additional chemistry might intensify the connections and help to pull Angela out of her abyss.” The psychiatrist continued. “We still aren’t entirely sure which factors are affecting the girl’s memory and in what proportions. It could be drugs, trauma, anger, fear or any one of each. Come on let’s get the girls reintroduced.”

Nonplussed by the strategy, Bab’s fell silent and just tagged along as the responsible but very self-conscious adult accompanying her minor.

The hospital seemed huge to the visitors and they seemed to trudge miles before finally entering the drug rehabilitation ward. Lola and Olivia had expected to find Angie in bed but instead, she was sat on a sofa and chairs with several other teenaged girls and watching television. Olivia immediately lunged forward to give her erstwhile friend a hug but she was shocked and disappointed by the seemingly total lack of reaction by Angie. After stepping back hesitantly she reached out again and took hold of Angela’s arm.

“It’s me Angie, Ollie your best friend.”

Angie just stared for a long, silent moment causing Olivia to try again.

“It’s me! Ollie. Don’t you remember, from the home, Brixton! Remember! Ollie! It’s me Ollie!”

The girl continued staring blankly then finally replied very softly.

“Ollie? Ollie, room seventeen.”

Ecstatic to get a response, Olivia pitched in with both feet.

“Yes, yes! Ollie, Olivia! The room at the end of the corridor, top of the stairs. Room seventeen, yes!” Ollie! The girl with the pink elephant on her bed! Remember?”

The psychiatrist was convinced she saw some glimmer of coherence in Angela’s stare so she discreetly touched Olivia’s shoulder and mouthed encouragement.

“Try some more Ollie, anything to do with the children’s home.”

To everybody’s surprise, Angela turned and glared at the doctor.

“Don’t say Ollie. She’s my Ollie.”

The psychiatrist immediately recognised the possessive nature of Angela’s remark and tried apologising to see if she could get a connective, coherent response.

“Sorry Angela. She’s your Ollie – my Olivia!”

Angie nodded and the psychiatrist let out a soft sigh of relief as she turned to Babs and the inspector.

“That was the first response anybody has had out of her. Your prisoner has obviously been closely connected to our patient.”

The inspector rankled a bit and immediately corrected the psychiatrist as he glanced at her name tag.

“Excuse me Doctor Hepplewhite!” He declared loud enough for everybody to hear, “Olivia is not, nor ever has been our prisoner. Olivia is helping us with our inquiries and seemingly now helping you. She is to be treated with the utmost respect, courtesy and indeed, thanks. Without her input, we would be nowhere with Angela’s case, now I note with no small satisfaction and optimism that these last few minutes have obviously opened a window into Angela’s trauma.”

“Sorry inspector. I might have jumped the gun a bit. For now, let’s just be grateful for the result we’ve got today. I think we’d better just let the two girls chat together while we go and get some tea or coffee.”

She motioned with her eye-brows and the inspector got the hint. Everybody, including the other younger girls, turned to leave but Olivia motioned to Babs to stay.

“Stay with me please, Babs. You might be able to help me.”

Babs smiled kindly before replying.

“I’ll do what I can Olivia. Hello Angela. My name is Barbara but everybody calls me Babs. Olivia lives with me now; she’s left the children’s home in Brixton. Are you happy for me to stay as well?”

Angie didn’t answer; indeed, Barbara had not expected any response for she seen drug damaged people before. Angie’s silence worried Olivia more than Babs and she stepped closer to Babs seeking reassurance. Babs spotted a flicker of some emotion pass briefly through Angie’s gaze so she gave Olivia a hug then advised her.

“Angie needs your love more than me Olivia. Give her another hug, go on try it. Sit beside her on the sofa.”

Olivia glanced nervously at Babs then cautiously -and very slowly- sat close to Angela.

“Can I give you another hug Angie?”

“I don’t bite.”

Olivia’s eyes widened with hope as she offered her hands to her friend. Angela’s head turned to meet Olivia’s gaze.

“Do you hate me?”

Olivia frowned uncertainly and cautiously reached around to squeeze Angela’s shoulders.

“No Angie.”

She left her answer at that. No explanations, no resentment nor any indication of her hurt that her best friend should even have contemplated such a hurtful question. Olivia though, was confused and uncertain as to how to go forward but after a painfully long pause Angela eased the tension by removing Olivia’s hands from her shoulders and pressing them towards her stomach. Olivia could feel her hands being dragged closer to a more intimate place and she glanced beseechingly to Babs for help or reassurance. Unfortunately Babs was also at a loss for Angela’s behaviour exceeded all the norms of adolescent behaviour. She turned towards the one-way viewing panel and motioned with her eyes for help as Angela took Olivia’s fingers and dug them hard into her groin.

At a complete loss as to how to respond Olivia whispered urgently.

“Not here, not now. They’re watching!”

Angela released Olivia’s fingers as though they were hot coals and then she cursed.

“It fucking hurts!”

Olivia’s hands hung uncertainly over Angela’s lap as she wondered whether to hug again. Sensing that Angela seemed to be drifting back into a nonresponsive trance, she reached out again to take Angela’s hands. This time however, she just kept massaging Angela’s fingers and knuckles in a nervous effort to somehow try and transmit affection without inviting another demand for intimacy. After a seemingly ineffectual interaction Olivia had an idea.

“Shall we go for a walk in the garden?”

“Ask them.” Angie replied.

Olivia looked up to Babs with questioning eyes and Babs left to inquire.

“She’ll need a physically active companion.” The psychiatrist warned. “The kid’s led our staff a merry dance since her physical condition has improved. Do you think your charge Olivia is up to the task? You know, running after her.” The psychiatrist asked.

“I don’t know about her, but I certainly reckon I can,” Lola interrupted.

“Not in those heels young lady.” The doctor replied.

For an answer Lola reached into her shoulder bag and produced two pairs of trainers with a victorious smile.

“We planned to go shopping after this. Heels for clubbing and making impressions, trainers for shopping – and pursuit!” Lola giggled.
Babs wagged her head again, her older charge Lola was something of an enigma, at once both comedic and insightful.

“You’ll be the death of me Lola.” Babs observed.

“But practical you must agree,” Lola grinned, “so can we take her into the garden?”

Babs turned expectantly to the psychiatrist, the Lady police sergeant and the inspector.

“Can we?”

“Let’s see how well the young lady can run in trainers first. Angela’s caught us on the hop twice.”

Lola snorted and immediately changed her footwear, while showing almost all of her pantied crotch and seemingly not caring one iota.

“Right, where’s the hare?”

“Just give us a demonstration young lady, in the garden.”

Lola promptly obliged and Angela’s carers were convinced. Instructions were issued and Lola, Olivia and the lady Sergeant took Angela out into the grounds. Babs joined the inspector and the medical team in the refectory to discuss going forward.

“Well the patient certainly has responded well to your charge’s input,” the psychiatrist observed.

Babs’ rankled slightly at the doctors impersonal reference to a kid that Babs had grown to love.

“She’s got a name doctor, Olivia or as Angela prefers, Ollie.”

“Sorry Mrs Smith. We doctors are rather prone think of each referral as a case rather than a person.”

“I know, Doctor Hepplewhite, and I’m a Miss, not a Mrs. Oh look, they’re back already!”

The adults turned as one while Lola approached Babs.

“Can we take Angie shopping with us provided the sergeant comes with us.”

“Gosh. That’s something of a step darling, ask Doctor Hepplewhite and the inspector for that matter as well. Angela’s an important witness in this rape-gang business. We can’t afford to lose her.”

“As witness or as a girl in her own right?” Lola challenged.

“She’s valuable on both counts Lola.” The inspector intoned with annoyance, “Stop trying to push the boundaries of our patience.”

“Well she doesn’t seem interested in flowers and trees.”

“Why? Has she mentioned that?” The psychiatrist inquired.
“Not in so many words,” Lola admitted reluctantly, “but both Olivia and I get the feeling she’s bored.”

The inspector looked questioningly at Doctor Hepplewhite.

“What do you think?”

“Well the activity should at least be stimulating, it could help. I’ve got a few reservations but no serious objections.”

The inspector turned to face Babs.

“And what about you Miss Smith? Have you any objections?”

“Just bring her back safe. I think I’d better accompany them anyway.”

“That’s a given Miss Smith as will my sergeant as well. She’ll appreciate the overtime anyway and I know she’s got nothing planned for tonight. Lola, can you ask them all to come here please.”

With the briefest of nods, Lola was out of the refectory and dashing into the grounds. There she almost squealed the exciting news.

“It’s a yes Ollie, the inspector want’s to speak to us before we go.”

“Fuck me! I didn’t expect that. D’ you hear that Angie?”

“Shopping.” Angela replied absently. “Yeah, shopping ‘ll be good.”

Lola and Olivia’s eyes widened with delight as Lola gave a secretive little ‘thumbs-up’ sign to the Lady police sergeant.

“Thanks sergeant. That was a brilliant suggestion.”

“You just make sure Angela doesn’t try to do a runner!” The sergeant warned.

Then the sergeant mouthed word ‘Junkie’ silently to emphasise the risk of Angela possibly trying to escape to find some drugs.

“Just be alert okay?”

The sergeant and the three girls re-joined the main team where the risks were explained and parameters hammered out. As if to reinforce the message, the doctors administered some methadone to Angela prior to her leaving. This action had a very sobering effect on both Lola and Oliva and brought a glistening tear to Babs’s eye. Even the lady police-sergeant was subdued. Nevertheless, the five of them were soon in the unmarked police car bound for the Birmingham city centre and ‘The Bull-ring’ shopping centre.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution
Chapter 7

List of Characters

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim)

The sergeant parked the unmarked car in the police station yard and accompanied the girls to the city centre shops.

So what’s it to be girls, shoes, dresses, undies?”

Olivia turned to Angela with a questioning expression.

“Your choice Angie, your treat.”

“Who’s paying?” Angela replied in a flat monotone voice.

Babs declared.

“The hospital said they could allow fifty pounds from their Social Services emergency fund and I’ll match that so it looks like a hundred to spend Angela.”

“Thanks.” Angela replied in the same monotone voice.

Olivia was about to scold Angie for not showing some gratitude but the police sergeant gently squeezed Olivia’s shoulder and whispered.

“Take it slowly Ollie. She’s had a nightmare life this past year. Time, we hope, will heal her.”

“She’s so dopy though." Olivia whinged. "Is she still addicted to heroin or cocaine?”

“You’ll have to ask the doctors when you get back. Her dopiness is probably due to the methadone she had before we left.”

Olivia sighed and wagged her head then grasped Angela’s hand and sighed.

“Come on babes let’s at least try some retail therapy. A miniskirt first I think.”

“No. Jeans.”

“Jeans! Why jeans. It’s mid-summer and hot, hot, hot!” Olivia objected.

“Jeans!” Angela repeated stubbornly.

Olivia turned despairingly to Babs.

“I don’t get this Nina. Even you’re wearing a light summer frock and bare legged.”

Bab’s had no answer as Olivia asked Lola.

“Would you wear jeans in this heat?”

“I would if I was afraid of everybody staring at me. Look around you.”

Olivia did a ‘girl-scan’ and concluded that Lola was correct, everybody that passed by gave her and Lola the ‘once-over’ – ‘but that what’s mini-skirts were all about’ she told herself.

Lola however was looking at it from Angela’s point of view.

“Out here on the street Babe’s you and I can say no. It’s broad daylight and everybody’s there if some idiot tries it on. For Angie there was no protection in that Asian gang place – that brothel.

If some shite decided he wanted to take her - rape her in other words. There was no way she could refuse. No matter what she said, or did - or wore, there was no escape. Now she’s terrified of the slightest glance from a stranger. Are you surprised she doesn’t want to invite another assault; and in her eyes, a miniskirt is an invitation. If she wants to buy Jeans, then jeans it is.”

Olivia sighed and nodded. She had been a bit selfish and stupid wanting Angie to buy a sexy outfit. Now she was getting some insight into her friend’s issues. It seemed that Lola had as much wisdom as Bab’s and Olivia wondered if it was the plastic bag thing when Lola was left to freeze to death.

“Alright then, Jeans it is.” She replied regretfully to Lola and they re-joined Babs, Angela and the police sergeant.”

“Where first then, Pri-mani?” Lola suggested. “They’ve got a pretty good selection of jeans.”

“Sounds like a plan darling,” Babs replied as she pointed out the very store on the next corner.

The jeans were conveniently on the ground floor and they were soon trying on different styles.

“I don’t want tight ones; you know, stretch jeans that show a camel toe!”

Both girls now understood Angela’s sublimal message about inviting unwanted abuse and they reluctantly acceded to a pair of looser fit, heavier denim jeans that would have looked more in place sitting on a tractor. Olivia and Lola kept their mouths firmly shut at first while Angela studied her image morosely. As she hummed and hawed over her reflection she finally pulled a dissatisfied frown.

“It’s not really me is it? I’ll ask Babs.”

The three emerged from the changing room to present for inspection by the older women and Angela asked for Babs’s opinion.

Olivia could not resist a little sarcasm as she interrupted.

“Oooh-ahrr, ooow-ahrr. Tis tiome to be bringin t’ arvest in!”

“Oy!” Sergeant Davis warned Olivia with a soft smile. “Horses for courses, If Angela wants loose jeans then loose they shall be. Now, Angela, tops I think, how about it?”

“I’m not sure about the jeans.” Angela replied with despondency clearly evident in her tone.

“Well if you’re not happy, we can try somewhere else. There’s hundreds of shops here.” Bab’s replied cheerily. “Shall we try another shop?”

“Let’s go back to the jeans section and look again.” Angela flashed the briefest of smiles towards Olivia, but It was so brief that most missed it or failed to note its import.

Babs however, ever alert to the moods and natures of her own two charges, noted the brief flicker slip fleetingly across Angela’s face.

As the three girls led the charge back to the jeans section of the shop, Babs gently tugged Sergeant Davis’s arm to hold her back out of earshot.

“Did you notice that? Angela’s showing some sort of response. I could have sworn I saw the slightest inflection of a smile just then.”

“Did you, I was too busy explaining to Ollie about being flippant.” The police sergeant remarked.

“It was that remark about harvest time that Angela responded to. I think their old friendship is beginning to sprout new shoots. She definitely smiled at Olivia’s remark.”

“Well we shall see. Let’s keep close to them and I’ll be watching more closely this time.”

By the time Bab’s and the lady police sergeant had caught up with the girls they were checking over the jeans again. Angela was holding up a stretchy pair with a flower motif on each back pocket.

“Better?” She was asking Olivia and Lola’s opinion.

“Possibles,” Lola confirmed. “I’ll hold these while you check some others.”

Olivia then selected a pair and posed them for Angela’s inspection.

“These as well I think.”

“Yeah. Why not?” Angela actually giggled.

Once again Olivia and Lola failed to realise the important message that Angela’s response inferred but both adults did. Angela was responding to social interaction; something she had not done since being rescued from the brothel. Sergeant Davis whispered to Babs while the girls were exchanging ideas and generally enjoying themselves.

“Bab’s. I need an excuse to speak to the inspector and the medical team at Birmingham. Call me on your phone and I can step away as though answering a call. Then I can report this stuff to the team. I want some advice from them.”

Babs caught the jist of the plan and promptly co-operated.

After the phone-calls were complete Sergeant Davis returned from the shop doorway and spoke to Babs.

“It’s good news. If she’s interacting as we say it is, then she definitely getting better. The side effects of the methadone should be dulling her mood and suppressing her pleasure centres. So, if she’s in a happy mood, that means she responding to the right stimuli. They say keep it up.”

“We haven’t got much longer. It’s Sunday and the shop closes at four.” Babs replied regretfully as she turned to the girls.

“You do realise this shop closes at four don’t you girls.”

Lola looked at her watch and cursed.

“Dammit! I forgot it was Sunday. We haven’t got a single thing yet. Come on Oliva let’s check the tops out.”

In one last desperate charge the girls grabbed some likely looking items and rushed to the changing rooms. It didn’t take long for Angela to emerge with a suitable top and a pair of stretch denim jeggings.

“I thought you said something loose.” Babs challenged gently.

“Bugger it, I’m going for broke. Besides I’ve four people to protect me and one of those is a copper.”

“Have we got time for shoes?” Olivia wondered.

“Only in this store and they’re on the third floor. Come on! Quickly!”

By the time Babs joined the girls and the sergeant, Angela had chosen a rainbow coloured pair of trainers.

“They glow in black – light Nina!” Olivier squealed as she placed the trainer in a special display cabinet to cause it to fluoresce.

“I’ve always wanted a pair of these!” Angela pleaded. “But they’re expensive.”

Babs quickly checked the receipts for the clothes and smiled.

“Everything including those shoes comes to a few quid over the hundred with the extra tops but I’ll stand you that. We can forgo the pizzas I was contemplating and go straight back to the hospital unit.”

Tears came to Angela’s eyes as she hugged Babs.

“Can you and Olivia stay for dinner before you go back tonight?”

“Uuhm. It depends on Sergeant Davis. She’s had a busy day and is entitled to time off.”

“I’ll ask my inspector but I want to speak to Olivia as well.”

“Me! What about?” Wondered a rather surprised Olivia.

“A private chat Olivia if you please. Don’t worry, you’re not in any trouble kiddo.”

When they got back to the hospital only the inspector and one member of the addiction team remained. Sergeant Davis asked Olivia to remain in the car with her for a few moment while Babs and Lola took Angela into the hospital addiction unit.

“So what’s all this about?” Olivia asked.

“We, the police that is; need all the help we can to destroy this rape gang completely and if possible find out any more connections between them and the gang that caused you and Angela problems in the children’s home. Have you got any more names for us?”

“You bet I have but are you lot going to do anything about it. When I reported Angela’s disappearance to the Met they treated me like some sort of slum-dog nigger bitch. If I give you names and stuff can you promise there won’t be a trail to my door or more importantly, Babs’s door?”

“Inspector Dobbs can promise you that but there’s another issue.”

“Go on”, Olivia intoned suspiciously.

“Well has Angela said anything to you while you were shopping?”

“Yes.”

“Go on.”

“I’m not sure I should.

“Why not?”

“Angie told me in confidence, apparently there was one girl, Angie didn’t say her name, who escaped once and went to the Police. The police also treated her like some sort of lying, slum-dog, nigger bitch and she ran out of the police station. Straight into the arms of those bloody wogs who were running the brothel.”

“You can’t use words like that!”

“Oh no of course not but they can snatch kids off the street, force them into prostitution and the police do nothing! Look what happened in that town in the north, you know the one, the steelworks place. Where the council told the police to lay off the rape gangs!!! Exactly the same thing happened there as happened to me and that girl Angie mentioned!”

If I wrote the word ‘Wog’ on Facebook or something, the police would be down on me like a ton of bricks but if I reported an Asian brothel in Birmingham I’d just be shooed away! Cos that’s exactly what happened to me – well it was a kidnap but my best friend Angie ended up being a junkie and a sex slave!!! But the police did fuck all and suggested that Angie had gone voluntarily with Tyson. Don’t talk to me about my words until you do something about their actions!!!”

Sergeant Davis suddenly noticed the single glistening tear escaping from Olivia’s and realised she might have gone too far too quickly.

“I’m sorry Olivia, I can’t apologise enough for what happened to you and your friend but can I still ask for your help? I want to catch all these bastards every bit as much as you do!”

Olivia’s shoulders heaved as she turned away to try and hide her tears. Sergeant Davis stretched across and wrapped her arms around the teenaged black girl just as the dam burst.

“I’m sorry Ollie! I’m so, so sorry!”

Olivia’s shoulders shuddered convulsively for several minutes as the sergeant struggled to hold the child tight. Eventually between wracking sobs, Olivia found her voice.

“She was - the only - friend - I had. “Will she ever – get better?”

Sergeant Davis gave her a tighter reassuring hug.

“Correction Ollie. She is your friend – and she will get better.”

“What did they get her on, when they took her – that is?”

“Opioids. Prescriptive pain killers. They are very addictive but she should be able to come completely clean of them. It’s not like crack cocaine or such like. Firstly they want to get a return on their investment so the longer the girl looks tidy and presentable, the more she earns for the gang.”

“Is that like Opium. Opium’s bad stuff, it really fucks with your whole body, mind and body!”

“No, opioids are commercially produced artificial derivatives that have similar chemistry to opium. They affect the body’s pain receptors and give the patient or in criminal circumstances, the victim an intensely euphoric high. More importantly, they can control the dose if the pills are legal, so they keep the girls on the edge all the time with little risk of their being overdosed because they control the dosage.”

“So the girls are just like zombies.”

“Well they’re fully conscious but totally dependent on the pills to stay sane. Withdrawal pains are utterly disabling and the cramps can even kill. They’re begging for the pills when they get the pains and cramps.

We’ve identified the pills they use and they are produced commercially in the United States. What we haven’t done yet is locate how or where they are getting into the UK. The pills are used legally in the US as prescriptive medicine for pain but somehow they are getting on -to the street – in huge quantities.”

“But I can’t help with that side at all. What do I know about suppliers or supply routes.”

“No, but if you keep Angie on side, she might remember names, or dates or even locations. She didn’t spend all the time locked in the brothel. Once the girls are addicted, they are like obedient puppies and can be taken anywhere. Angie has already responded to you more in a few hours than she has opened up to us in a couple of weeks. Once we get her clean of the opioids, -and she’s nearly there by the way – we can start to wean her off the Methadone and she should start to recover more of her memory.”

“But for that, I’d have to be with her all the time. I’ve only got four weeks summer vacation left and we return to school. Where would I stay?”

“These are questions we could address after we’ve got a handle on Angela’s addiction.”

“I don’ wanna’ stay in the clinic in this hospital. It reminds me too much of a bloody prison or the children’s home. All plastic covered sofas and PVC covered chairs, Urgh! No way!”

“It would have to be some sort of ‘safe-house’. I’d probably be seconded to guard her and there would be another police officer as well.”

“Bloody hell! That’s expensive what with police overtime and everything.”

“I don’t think your realise just how important a witness Angela is, do you?”

Olivia swallowed nervously before gulping.

“Is she in danger then?”

“She is now we’ve got the bulk of the gang behind bars. The word is that Angela’s catatonic and not talking but now you’ve arrived and she’s started talking, the gang might try to get to her even in the hospital.

“Shit! So she’s gonna’ need a safe house then!”

That’s just one option Olivia. All the logistics have to be worked out. All I’m asking for now is if you’re prepared to help Angela and help us at the same time?”

“Only if it will definitely help Angela.”

“Good girl. I knew you’d come up trumps. D’ you know Olivia, for a kid that’s had such a shitty start in life, your not such a bad kid after all. Oh, and by the way, you might have to give evidence but if you do, we might find a way to hide your identity. The problem is, your evidence of witnessing Angel’s kidnap is vital because it reinforces and backs up Angela’s narrative. Come on, let’s re-join the others.”

“I don’t want to be identified, at least not before the whole gang is behind bars. I want to be certain that Tyson get’s what’s coming to him.”

“Olivia, I can assure you that after the embarrassment that the Rotherham case caused for the police, the courts AND the government, if; or more probably, when Tyson gets found guilty, he’s looking at twenty five to thirty five years as are Jason and Tyrone.”

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution

Chapter 8

List of Characters

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, female police bodyguard for Angela.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Chapter 8.

Olivia trudged behind Sergeant Davis while she gathered her thoughts and considered her options.

A child of London’s mean streets and even meaner care hostels for nearly eight years, Olivia was still a hard-bitten cynical misfit. She still had no trust in the police or the social workers for that matter. It was not until she had been placed with the old lady called Babs and been treated with trust and caring consideration by old Babs that she had finally begun to respond to Bab’s kindness and Lola’s blunt, straight-talking openness.

As they approached the rehabilitation clinic’s vestibule front entrance, Olivia could see Lola lounging dispiritedly in one of the armchairs, seemingly not involved in the group discussions between Babs, Doctor Hepplewhite, the police inspector and a stranger who Olivia sensed to be yet another social worker.

Olivia always reckoned she could smell a social worker half a city block away. At first she could not see Angela then, as she entered the vestibule, she spotted her sitting amongst the other rescued girls while staring towards the adults. It was obvious to Olivia that Angela seemed totally disinterested in whatever was being discussed and just seemed to stare into space. Olivia was also concerned when she noticed that Angela was not talking to Lola. Only a few minutes earlier, the three girls had been chattering to Babs and the sergeant.

After entering the enclosed vestibule, Olivia paused while Sergeant Davis joined the adult discussion group. Wondering what to do, and nervous about joining the rescued girls, she joined the frowning Lola.
“Whass’ up big sis?”

“Look at that lot, they’re like zombies.”

Olivia turned to study the rescued girls again and only then realised that all of them were simply staring absently into space.

“Fuck! What they done to them?”

“When we came back I just saw a nurse finish handing each of them a drink of medicine. Then soon after we returned, they gave Angie a dose as well. Look at them, they’re all zonked out.”

“It must be how they get them to sleep. Sergeant Davis told me that Methadone and the other medicines knock them out to prevent withdrawal symptoms and stuff during the night.”

Even as Lola and Olivia watched, some charge nurses appeared and guided each girl to a ‘lock-up’ bedroom so within minutes they were the only children left. Olivia’s eyes glittered with tearful frustration and Bab’s noticed her distress. It prompted her to excuse herself from the adult discussion to reassure Olivia.

“Excuse me a moment, I think Olivia needs some TLC.”

As she joined Lola and Olivia she explained gently.

“I know it look's bad but it’s the only way they can be certain the girls get a proper night of restful, curative sleep. If they woke up with withdrawal problems, there’s no knowing what sort of pain and distress they might suffer and there are insufficient staff to supervise them one-on-one all night. It has been known for addicts to commit suicide if they wake up with withdrawal pains and there’s insufficient supervision to treat them.

This way, all the girls are truly zonked out and they are in a deep, drug induced sleep.”

“But Sergeant Davis told me that Methadone itself is actually addictive.”

Babs nodded sympathetically.

“Sadly it is darling but until they can get over the craving for opium or heroin they have to use the methadone as a substitute. Once they are over the worst of the evils, that is opioids, or opium or heroin then they can start treatment for the methadone addiction. For that they use several different drugs including Naltrexone. Apparently it’s an American drug but they use it over here as well. Once they’re safely on Naltrexone they won’t need such specialised supervision but they will still need a lot of care and secure supervision.”

“How long will that take?”

“Well according to Doctor Hepplewhite, it’s matter probably of weeks, or possibly months but no more than say three months to wean them off the opioid addictions. Then it takes some months to wean them off the Methadone related therapy addictions then they can slowly wean them off Naltrexone over however long it takes because the drug can be taken orally in less specialised situations. The advantages from the third generation therapy are such that they can recover without intensive supervision.

For most of these girls, clinic has broken the back of their various addictions now it’s up to each girl and whatever care she receives.”

“What does that mean? – Whatever care they receive -. “Lola demanded.

“Well depending on which care authority was previously responsible for each girl, once they're clean; they’ll probably be returned to whichever care home they came from.” Babs explained.

“But that’s bloody crazy! Olivia protested. If Angela is returned to London, she’ll be back on drugs the very next night. There’s druggies actually operating right inside the care-home! Anyway, she can’t be exposed to the gangs because she’s a protected police witness. In fact all the girls are witnesses, it depends on how much information they have. Since they found the girls they need their testimonies in court but Angie’s evidence is crucial, she was occasionally employed by the gang before she was kidnapped and she knows more names and locations even than I do.

“Oh. I wasn’t aware of that.” Babs conceded.

“Yeah. Sergeant Davis said they have to find a safe house; at least until the court-case and that could take up to a couple of years. The police are still gathering evidence as well as waiting to take down Angie’s testimony. And mine for that matter, I witnessed her being forcibly kidnapped right under my window at the care-home! – and Tyson dealing. My evidence supports Angie’s evidence and therefore it carries extra weight. Sergeant Davis explained this to me just now.”

Babs fell into a thoughtful silence for she could see quite clearly how distressed Olivia was becoming.

“How will you get to continue your friendship if she’s taken away and hidden in a safe house?”

Her softly spoken question only served to reinforce Olivia’s fears and uncertainty for it was a question Olivia had already asked herself. Now forced to contemplate it, Olivia just shook her head in despair and turned away to once again try and hide her tears. It was Lola who provided the shoulder for her erstwhile ‘younger step-sister’ to cry on.

Seeing that she was not Olivia’s most favoured adult at that moment, Babs nodded knowingly to Lola then she went in search of the inspector. He was talking to his sergeant and the psychiatrist in the doctor’s office so Babs knocked softly and waited to be invited in.

“Come in,” the Inspector responded, “I see your younger ward is upset, what about?”

“She’s upset that when Angie is fixed up in a safe house, she’ll not get to resume their friendship.”

“Or their lesbian relationship.” Doctor Hepplewhite added concernedly.”

“Oh I think that’s a bit strong and presumptuous,” Bab’s protested, “give the poor bloody kids some dignity. We’ve got absolutely no evidence that anything untoward went on. Girls of fifteen often have intense feelings towards their friends and they don’t necessarily have to be sexual!”

The inspector weighed in.

“Angela will definitely need to be placed somewhere secure; she certainly won’t be going back to the London care system. There’re too many dangers.”

At this juncture, Olivia had detached herself from Lola’s shoulder and was walking back to Babs. She heard the inspector’s words and her heart sank. ‘Two years’ the sergeant had suggested.’ A separation that long was inconceivable!”

At a complete loss as to what to do, Olivia turned again to Babs and motioned that she wanted privacy.

“What?” Bab’s hissed quietly.

“Does any of the gang know about Angela or me being connected to you and Lola?” Olivia whispered back.

Bab’s paused as she bit her lower lip.

“No, not as far as I am aware. Is this going where I think your thinking of going?”

“If nobody is told, she’d be safe with us. The police don’t even have to tell London Social services.”

Bab’s mused silently as she mulled it over. As far as she knew, only the Inspector and Sergeant Davis knew about Olivia’s involvement with the gang’s capture at the festival. Other police had heard Olivia’s voice over the comm’s but nobody had actually had a close look at Olivia’s face or heard her name.

“Leave it with me darling. When I’ve got a quiet moment, I’ll run it by the inspector and Sergeant Davis.”

Olivia gave herself a nervous hug and returned to chat to Lola about sisterly things and the remainder of the summer vacation. Meanwhile Babs chose her time to discuss just what a ‘safe-house’ entailed and what the risks were.”

It was a rather sober ‘Nina’ that returned to the girls after a long involved chat with Inspector John and the lady police sergeant Davis.

“Well, we’re finished here girls, Sergeant Davis is giving us a lift to the station.”

Lola and Olivia exchanged looks as they both wondered why they were not getting the chauffer service all the way to the Canal house. It soon became apparent as the police car headed out of town and it was Lola who noticed the deviation.

“I thought we were going home by train?”

“That was for the benefit of any unfriendly ears at the hospital. Less people who know the facts, the better.”

“So where are we going,” Olivia asked, “and does this mean a safe house?”

“We are checking that nobody is following us.” Sergeant Davis confirmed.

“Bloody hell!” Olivia muttered to Lola. “This is getting heavy! Thugs following the plod?”

“I told you before Olivia, this gang is big and it operates nationwide. This operation is our first big breakthrough.”

“Bloody hell!” Enjoined Lola as she exchanged a frown with Babs. “We’re in this deep, aren’t we.”

“Through no fault of ours,” Bab’s reassured the girls. “Just be glad there’s been no names exchanged with the hospital authorities. The inspector assured me that nothing about any of us has been revealed. They deliberately kept everything secret the moment Olivia recognised Tyson then mentioned Angela over the police comms.”

“He’s moved up the criminal ladder since I was last involved with him. I’m just glad I got out when I did.”

“Yes; well Angela’s not been so lucky. She got sucked in then thrown under the bus.”

Olivia fell silent as the police car pulled into a lay-by where two other un-marked cars were waiting.. She immediately became suspicious until the man emerging from one of the cars turned out to be Inspector John. She turned to declare to Lola and Babs.

“Bloody hell, this is real cloak-and-dagger stuff. How did Inspector John get here before us?”

“The police have radios Olivia, and you may not have noticed that I took the long way around to get here. We can’t be too careful,” Sergeant Davis replied.

"You two girls will wait here for an hour with Inspector John and the detective Sergeant in that car, while Babs and I go in a my car and check out Babs’s cottage by the lock. If it’s clear, we’ll know our small part of the operation has not been compromised.”

Olivia and Lola immediately realised the score as the inspector and the new sergeant met with them.

“So is our cottage to be the safe house?”

“Got it in one girls. Now this officer is detective Sergeant Davis and you will follow later in about an hour but you can stop in a Mac Donald’s or somewhere for now while his sister checks the cottage.”

“That’ll be confusing, two sergeant Davis’s Lola remarked as she studied the tall detective.”

“They’ll both be staying on a narrow boat right by the cottage so you’ll have good protection.”

“In the little laying over berth behind the house or out front on the main canal?” Lola checked.

“The lay-over berth,” Bab’s explained as she prepared to leave with Police sergeant Davis. “It’s less conspicuous and it covers the approaches from the woods across the marshy meadow. That way, every side of the cottage has a clear view and the cameras will pick up everything.”

“Cameras! Bloody hell, we’d better rename the cottage Fort Olivia.” Lola sniggered.

“This is no joke young lady.” Inspector John intoned seriously. “We’ve already found one of the girl’s bodies and we’re looking for possibly two more. Angela and the other girls we rescued may not count themselves very lucky but at least they are alive!”

“Shit!” Olivia cursed as Sergeant Davis and Babs started pulling out of the layby. “So that’s why Tyson, Jason and Tyrone are looking at thirty years!”

“Precisely!” The inspector finished. “Now if you get in the car with Detective Sergeant Davis, I’m sure he’ll find a suitable MacDonald’s where you can spend an hour. I’ll be coming down to the cottage tomorrow but for now I’ve got paperwork to do back at the station.”

This is a narrowboat that is typically used for leisure on the UK canals. 6'10" wide and up to 72 feet long.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 9

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, female police bodyguard for Angela.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Chapter 9

Once the two girls and the Police detective were travelling in the Police car towards Gloucester they lightened up. Learning of the size and the severity of the Rape Gang case had been a very sobering moment for both girls. Lola was sitting in the front passenger seat while Olivia was spread more comfortably in the back. Although the compulsory seat harness did not allow for much spreading. Lola asked the detective.

“Did Inspector John say he was going back to do paperwork?”

“Yes. There’s a lot to catch up on.”

“What! On a Sunday?”

“Yes.”

Olivia snorted with returned amusement.

“Blood hell. It must be a big case is they’re paying ‘im overtime on a Sunday.”

The Detective Sergeant glanced back through the rear-view mirror.

“It is Olivia. The young girl’s body was found in Manchester and she was taken from a children’s home in Nottingham.”

“Oh my god! How old was she?”

“Eleven when we found her body but she was ten when she disappeared.”

“Bastards!” Olivia cursed as Lola asked.

“Is it the same gang that took Angela?”

The detective nodded and replied.

“Some of them are. There are cells scattered around the country, something like biker gangs. Some big, like Birmingham and London, some small.”

“And they’re all wogs!” Olivia spat.

“We can’t use that word Olivia.” The detective censured her, “Besides, they’re not all Asians.”

“Bet they’re all Muslims though.”

“I can’t say that either, young lady.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Cos they’re not all Muslims!”

“It’s the Muslim boys who are always pestering us at school.”

“Surely no more than boys are always pestering girls, all boys that is.”

“Nah, there’s something else, something about their attitude. Like we’re not allowed to say no or fuck off.”

“But what about Tyson, Jason and Tyrone?” Detective Sergeant Davis countered. “Their attitude was far worse and they’re white and black. They certainly didn’t take no for an answer, did they?”

Olivia fell silent. The detective was right. Unbelievingly she had rated the Muslim boys as worse than Tyson and Tyrone almost as though they were excused responsibility because they were known as drug dealers and wide boys on the estate. The muslim boys were strangers to her people and she knew little or nothing about the muslim girls except that most of them either worked hard at school and went onto uni or left to get married at sixteen. She even found herself wondering if she was racist.

Then she recalled that most of the Asian rape gangs were definitely muslim and the ones she had seen at the music festival looked like Muslims with big beards. Some even wearing those djibbah coats. The more she thought about the whole case, the more confused she became. She lost count of time and awareness and by the time she recovered from her confused introspections, they were pulling into a MacDonald’s. To her surprise, Lola was on first name terms with ‘Brian’ the detective.

“Do you want to eat inside the cafe or go somewhere to eat?”

“We might as well eat in the car.”

“Not in my car you won’t. I’ve got kids of my own and after learning my lesson about the mess kids leave, eating in the car, it is a big no-no!”

“Aaaww. Sergeant!” Olivia whinged.

“You might as well call me Brian, Lola already does. I know a good picnic spot outside Gloucester.”

Olivia rolled the name ‘Brian’ around her tongue and decided it was less cumbersome than ‘Detective – Sergeant – Davis’.

“Okay, - Brian.”

They drove to the picnic spot overlooking the River Severn and ate their burger meals and drinks. When they were nearly finished Brian’s phone beeped with a text.

“They’ve checked out the cottage and it’s all clear. Finish your grub.”

No longer having to kill time, they made good speed to the cottage and parked the car inconspicuously in the large ‘visitor’s car park’ at the top of the lane. As they walked down to the tow-path Brian nodded with satisfaction.

“This is a lovely site, pretty and yet difficult to sneak up on.”

“Yeah we both love it,” Lola answered for both girls, “though we never thought to consider it as a defensive position.”

They chatted as they approached the cottage to find Bab’s had spotted them from the kitchen window and the kettle was already boiling.
With the late afternoon sun bathing the little front garden in it’s gentle glow, they settled in the garden chairs to discuss strategy and tactics; what was okay and what was unsafe.

“You might find some of these restrictions irksome but believe me, if thing’s do go pear-shaped, you’ll thank us.”

Olivia nodded then asked Brian.

“When will Angie be likely to come?”

“I can’t say Olivia. I should think, or rather hope, within a month or so.”

“Will we be able to go and see her at the clinic?” Lola asked.

“By all means, indeed, Bridie will collect you at least once a week sometimes more; then take you to Gloucester station and you take the train to Birmingham New Street. That way, you’ll arrive on your own anonymously and make your own way to the hospital and Bridie’s face won’t become too familiar. The other tactic is to drive you to a local bus stop several stops away from the hospital, and you arrive by bus, a different bus route each time and they’ll have no idea where you’ve come from.

However, when leaving, you’ll have to be much more circumspect. Choose a bus number, then inform us then we can arrange to have a plain-clothes officer to be on the bus when it picks you up at the hospital. If they try anything on the bus, our officer is armed!!!!!

Then catch a bus to the railway station and we can arrange a station anywhere in the midlands to meet you. Choose an express train so they won’t be able to follow you by car while your guardian officer will be close behind you in New Street station. Don’t forget Olivia, these men are desperate because their gang members are facing very long sentences.

While Angela is still in the clinic, we’ll be sorting out a narrow-boat for Bridie and me to live on in that handy little dock behind here.”

Lola suddenly had a thought.

“Are you using Ollie as bait to trap anybody who tries to follow her?”

“Not deliberately,” Brian declared, “but we can’t be sure how desperate these gangsters will be. It’s important that you stay in touch to and from the hospital. We’ve got facial recognition cameras at the hospital and New Street station. You’ll be well protected Olivia! Now that Lola’s mentioned the ‘bait’ potential, are you still prepared to visit Angela in hospital?”

“Yeah I think so. Will Lola be able to come with me?”

Olivia was pretty much satisfied with the arrangements then she turned to the lady sergeant.

“Bridie.” Olivia grinned. “Is that your name Sergeant?”

“Yes blame our grandmother, it was Brian if it was a boy and Bridie if it was a girl. We’re twins.”

“Crickey! Neat,” Olivia clapped her hands joyfully. “I’d have loved a sister.”

The conversation stopped as Bab’s emerged with a tray of scones and tea, then Lola and Olivia took both sergeants on a grand tour of the river lock then the Marina further up the canal. On reaching the Marina both sergeants questioned the girls to get as much information as they could. They were thoroughly satisfied and pleased that Lola at least, knew every boat-owner by name as well as by reputation and habit while Olivia was learning fast as she earned painting and decorative work. Furthermore, the Marina manager vouchsafed for the girls.

“Yeah! They’re good kids; couple of times they’ve helped boatowners out as well as general handy-man stuff amongst the boats. Boat-owners have even gone knocking on Babs’s door to ask for their help.”

“You know the kid’s back-grounds?” Bridie checked.

“Yes I do, Doctor Aaron and Shirley do as well. No need for everybody to know. Far as I’m concerned they’re okay.”

“Well we’re up here to let you know, we’ve got a boat and Bab’s has let us use the layby berth behind her cottage.”

“Lucky you. She guards that spot jealously; it belongs to the cottage.”

“Yeah, well we’re distant relatives.”

Olivia and Lola exchanged secret smiles and broached the subject when they were returning to the cottage.

“Distant relatives my arse! I didn’t know the police could lie so effectively.”

Bridie grinned then chuckled as she explained.

“We’re all distant relatives Ollie. From Adam, that is.”

“Ha!! Lola snorted. “She’s got you there Ollie. She’s not exactly lied, has she?”

“Would you Adam and Eve it!” Brian interjected.

A general groan of ironic condemnation erupted from the three girls.

As they approached the cottage Lola turned to practicalities.

“So when’s this narrow-boat coming and where will Angie stay when she gets here?”

“The boat should be ready in about a week. We’ll be staying in a caravan by the lock until then under the pretence of being surveyors for the Water authority. Once the boat is habitable, we’ll settle in.” The lay-by berth is not very noticeable from the canal so we won’t draw much attention to ourselves. By pretending to be employees of the water authority, people will presume it’s perfectly normal. Besides, we’re going to station some genuine fish monitoring equipment for the Severn-Trent river authority so it will be technically a genuine monitoring station.”

“Very clever,” Babs added as she re-joined them in the Garden.”

After various arrangements and preparations were discussed and organised, Brian and Bridie left the cottage while the ‘family’ went to sleep.
The following Wednesday, Bridie delivered Olivia to Temple Meads station instead of Gloucester just to throw any searchers off the scent. While they waited for the express, Bridie took Olivia through the plan then bid her a safe journey as Olivia boarded her train. From the bustle of Birmingham New Street, she made her own way to the hospital where a secret rendezvous had been arranged with Angela. Olivia was stood admiring some paintings in an anonymous office when she turned as a second door opened and her erstwhile friend appeared alone.

A wave of emotion ripped through Olivia’s guts as Angela emerged alone. For a full second, Olivia stood rooted to the spot before she recovered her composure and she cautiously stepped towards Angie.

“Hi Angie!” Olivia whispered uncertainly as she noted the slight improvement in her friend’s appearance.

Angie’s eyes were less sunken and some fullness had returned to her once gaunt face. More importantly, her eyes seemed more alert and bright while her general demeanour seemed more attentive and aware. When Angie recognised Ollie she reached out with her arms and squealed with delight as the two friends rushed forward and flung their arms around each other.

The intense embrace lasted for several minutes until Oliva felt her blouse becoming damp and she realised Angela had started crying.

“Hey!” Olivia reassured her friend. “Come on now, you’re getting better and you’ll be out of here soon.

“Will I?” Angie wept.

“Hey! You’re not a prisoner, you’re a patient. I can see you’re getting better; well you certainly look better. How do you feel, you know in yourself?”

“The skin crawling has stopped and I don’t get withdrawal cramps. They think I’ll be off the Methadone in a couple of weeks.”

“That’s fabulous news! How’s your appetite?”

“They make us all work out in the gym every morning for an hour before breakfast and it’s hard work. We have to burn off so many calories before we get breakfast and by then we’re starving. I eat like a hog for breakfast but more importantly, the food stays down.”

“Well that’s a good thing and you’re certainly looking better. So what’s the plan when you get out?”

“I don’t know. They say I have to go into protective custody for all sorts of reasons.”

“Fuck!” Cursed Olivia as she feigned ignorance. “What does that mean exactly?”

“I dunn’o. Some sort of safe house or something but far from London.”

“That’ll be to keep you from falling into the gang’s clutches.”

“Yeah but I’ll be all alone, I’ll have no one.”

“What about the other girls?”
“They are keeping us separate for our own protection and reduce the chances of lapsing back. A safe house is gonna be a nightmare and what sort of set up will it be. Not another bossy bitch like in Brixton.”

“I just don’t know Angie,” Olivia lied and it made her feel like shit. “I suppose they have to do that until the court case.”

“Yeah and they reckon that’s gonna be another year or two before they’ve get their fucking act together.”

“Yeah, well you can blame Tyson and Jason for that, at least as far as we are concerned. They got tangled up with these rape gangs and sucked you in. D’ you know of any other girls from our place?”

“They say there might be two but both are still missing.”

“Which ones were they?”

“D’ you remember the blond one with the very long hair.”

“Yes, Erica. I thought she was fostered out.”

“No, that’s what the social workers said to cover up any shit on their part. I worked it out when the police asked me about her. Anyway, she wasn’t with us in the Birmingham shit-hole and the police are still looking for her. I think she might be dead.”

“Oh shit no. She was an okay kid. Who would have kidnapped her? Tyson and Jason weren’t around back then.”

“No but there was that one from somewhere in Eastern Europe. The Roman one.”

“You mean Allus, the Roma guy. He went back to Slovakia didn’t he? The police were looking for him.”

“Did he fuck go back. He was up in Nottingham and Leicester when I went up there with Tyson. I spoke to Allus and Tyson let him fuck me. He’s a filthy bastard and too handy with his fists.”

“Where in Leicester?”

“No, Nottingham. There’s that club called the ‘Al Ta’ Noor’. It claims to be just a Shisha café but further down the alley towards the river Trent they’ve got the brothel and there’s some very young kids there. It’s surrounded by old warehouses and stuff. I heard screams coming from there a couple of times. I was there with Tyson and a couple of his Muzzie mates another night but I saw Allus coming out of a room with blood on his jacket. He looked pretty pissed so Tyson took me away. Something happened but God knows what.”

Olivia shuddered as she began to learn just what her friend had been through. She knew it was pointless asking for specific dates but she had a stroke of luck when Angie mentioned the Asian obsession with football.

“What wide screens and everything?”

“Oh they’re really big on it. I think I was lucky that night because Tyson had won a bet on Nott’s Forest and Arsenal and the game highlights were being shown on TV. Arsenal had won. Tyson made a bomb on his bet and he decided to take me and his mates for a meal. They were laughing about where to go when Allus came out with blood all over him. The screaming had stopped and he looked panicky. Tyson just grabbed me and we left with his Paki mates. After shit like that, I didn’t have the will to fight it anymore.”

As Angela’s recollections started to overwhelm her again, Olivia grabbed her in another intensely tight hug. It was the only thing she could do and even then she felt helpless. The pair were still crying when the nurse came in with tea and biscuits.

“My god love! D’ you want some medicine?”

Angie tensed and Olivia realised her friend was worried about being drugged to calm her down. Between sobs that wracked both of them, Oliva spat back.

“No she doesn’t want bloody drugs, just let us cry this shit through!”

The nurse, being a trained drug rehabilitation specialist immediately realised that Olivia had achieved another breakthrough. Angela was emoting and crying genuine, copious tears.

She nodded knowingly to Olivia and left the wailing pair with the tea and biscuits. With tea and biscuits interrupting their intercourse, Angela stopped crying and they fell to talking again.

“I wish we could go shopping again. That tall girl who was with you last time, she was fun.”

“That’s Lola. She was already staying with Babs when I moved in with them. Lola and Babs are brilliant. The trouble is, I can’t be seen around Birmingham with you or the gang might put two and two together.”

“How come?”

“I’ll tell you next time I come, and I’ll try and bring Lola. My time’s up and I’ve got a train to catch with my discount saver ticket.”

Angela’s smile dropped slightly and she flung herself again into Olivia’s arms.

“I wish it was just you and me like the old times in the home. You were the only one I really trusted.”

“They hugged again tightly until Olivia was forced to leave.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 10

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, female police bodyguard for Angela.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Chapter 10

Olivia had only just closed the door to the interview room where she and Angie had been talking when she encountered Bridie and an impatiently hopeful Inspector John. After what Angie had burdened her with, it was a huge weight off her mind to meet the two police officers and unload the burden immediately.

“I’ve got stuff; important stuff,” she whispered.

Inspector John hid his anticipation well as he nodded imperceptibly towards another interview/consulting room and the three stepped inside. Strangely, Olivia didn’t feel dishonest as she detached the hidden recorder for she now knew the police would require every bit of information they could get to advance the case. Nevertheless, they still needed Olivia to report in her own words for legal purposes.

“Go ahead Ollie,” Bridie encouraged her so Olivia gave it to them chapter and verse.

After a full hour of exhaustive writing Bridie’s arm felt as though it was falling off while inspector John gave a tearful Olivia the umpteenth supportive hug.

“This information is gold Olivia. It ties so much of our information together and also gives us some more leads. Do you want to come up again on Saturday? Some aspects of this case have far wider implications, international ones in fact.”

Olivia nodded eagerly then asked hopefully.

“Can Lola come and is there somewhere outside Birmingham we can go shopping. Not just for clothes but so Angie can get out. I’m sure Angie’s got other stuff but she seemed too hurt to speak of it. She spoke of Manchester but wouldn’t say anymore. I remember you telling me about the young girl from Nottingham being found dead in Manchester. D’ you think it’s connected.”

Bridie was still rubbing her elbow and flexing her arm as she smiled assurance.

“We’ll organise something Ollie. Now which way d’ you want to go home?”

“The train’s good.”

“Okay, I’ll get Brian to pick you up in Gloucester. He’s been helping to site the Caravan by the river lock.”

Olivia grinned, “I’ll bet Lola’s been sticking her oar in.”

Bridie grinned back, “I don’t know kid but I suppose she has.

Now, we’ve got an unmarked van to get you out of the hospital and down to the station. We’re not going to New Street station but you’ll board the train in Bromsgrove and you’ll take the flyer via Worcester to get off at Gloucester. There’s a Severn-Trent Water Authority van to take you to the cottage.”

Olivia nodded and reflected how much her life had been altered.

“I’ll be glad when all this shit is over. I felt really evil Lying to Angie.”

Bridie gave her a hug as she whispered.

“I know love but think of her delight when she discovers she’s staying with you in the cottage.”

“But there’s no room. Where will she sleep?” Olivia whispered back.

Bridie released her embrace and stared deep into Olivia’s eyes whilst continuing to whisper.

“I believe your sixteen at the end of August aren’t you.”

“Well, yes, but -.”

“And Angela’s sixteen in mid-September,” Bridie smiled a knowing smile.

Olivia’s eyes came out like organ-stops and she almost squealed out joyfully before remembering the secrecy issue. She whispered hoarsely in her endeavour to keep it secret.

“You mean -!”

“It’s legal isn’t it. You’ll have reached the age of consent.”

“But. But how did you -! How did you know?” Olivia wondered as tears of relief ran down her cheeks.

“D’ you think I’m stupid darling? Babs and I worked it out in the car the first time you came to see Angie.”

“Doesn’t Babs object?”

“You have a long chat with Babs sometime. How many seventy-three-year-old women would accept a pre-op girl like Lola and let her live with her in the cottage?”

“I know, Babs is such a brick, she never hurts Lola about her trans stuff and she’s solid; solid as a rock with me.

“Come on then, let’s get you into this van.”

With that, their whispering ceased and they made their way to the hospital basement.

Two hours later, Olivia met with Brian in a falsely signed water authority van at Gloucester station.

“Where’s Lola?” She asked.

“Checking out our narrow-boat being fitted out in the Gloucester docks.”

Olivia grinned. She’d come to love narrow-boats since the fun with Aaron’s boat in the Bristol Maritime festival and Gloucester Dock Regatta.

“This I’ve gorra’ see, you and Bridie sharing a narrow boat. Will Bridie be putting extra locks on her door?”

“Haven’t you forgotten something Olivia?”

“What?”

“Bridie and I are twin brother and sister.”

“There was a deafening silence as Olivia realised her blunder.”

“Oh shit! I forgot, I completely forgot. I’m sorry! Honestly I forgot, I’m sorry!”

Brian grinned to reassure the kid.

“Apology accepted. Just don’t forget to remember to keep quiet about the arrangements when Angela comes. The safe house principle only stands if we keep it secret. There’ll be no talking and no tittle-tattle to ANYBODY. Can you remember that?”

Olivia swallowed partly through nerves and partly by way of further apology. Finally she found her voice again; albeit a very subdued voice.

“It’s not going to be easy what with all the people on the canal during the end of summer. People always ask questions as to how I’m living with Lola and Babs cos I’m black. When Angie joins us they’re gonna’ ask again.”

“The main thing is to keep the story simple.” Brian repeated.

“Yeah, and plausible." Olivia added. "The thing is people always ask if we’re related to Aaron and Shirley.”

“Who are they?”

“He’s a casualty registrar at BRI and Shirley lectures at the university. They own another narrowboat in the marina by the cottage. They’re black and other people always assume we’re somehow related. During the summer they virtually live down on the boat with their three kids. Lola and I are good friends and we see them a lot. When they see Angie, they’re bound to ask questions, her being black as well.”

“That put’s a bit of a fix on things. When do they move back to their main home?”

“When Shirley and the kids resume school, but they come down most weekends as well unless the weather’s really bad. The kids aren’t likely to ask too many questions but Aaron and Shirley have been really good to me. They are bound to ask about Angie. Shirley’s become like a second mum to me and we’re like that. (Olivia crossed her fingers.)

When the weather’s really bad, Lola and I always check their narrowboat, I mean we're so close to them that we’ve got a key to their boat . Then we sometimes help the Marina checking the other unattended boats, well Lola does but I’ve been getting involved lately as well. Lots of people know Lola and mee and they often ask Aaron or shirley about us. I can’t just suddenly stop seeing Aaron and Shirley, nor can Lola. It would look really bad.”

“Hmm,” Brian pondered the issue, “I will have to run it by Inspector John. Can these people be trusted?”

“That’s a horrible question. He’s a doctor so he knows how to keep shtum! Shirley’s pretty good as well and they’d never want to see me put at risk. Just cos they’re black do you think they would inform the brothers?”

“No! Sorry Olivia. You’re right, my turn to apologise, I was just beginning to worry that’s all. Sorry about that. I apologise, will you accept my apology?”

“You accepted mine about the brother and sister mistake so yes, I do. Call it quits?”

“Call it quits then. Ah here we are, look; there’s Lola exactly where she said she’d be.”

Olivia saw her house-mate tidying up some ropes on an unrecognised boat.
“Is that the boat?”

“Yeah, come aboard there’s an emergency strong room for you and Angela if things get really iffy. I certainly don’t expect it to come to that, but this idea of a narrowboat is a good one. The police in other authorities can use it when we’ve finished with it. It can be moved at a couple of weeks’ notice to anywhere on the canal system and it can be easily disguised with a few coats of paint.”

As they parked the car, Lola came bounding excitedly towards them.

“Hiya. Come and have a look Ollie. It’s like a little palace inside, real home from home.”

As the girls trotted eagerly to the boat-yard, Brian held back as he texted the inspector to advise of the situation with Aaron and Shirley. After some consideration – and a lot of chat; inspector decided to include Aaron and Shirley in the secret. There were more pro’s than cons to the idea of two black responsible adults helping to reinforce the story to protect the girls. Also it would be two more pairs of eyes alert to the threat. By the time Brian arrived at the narrowboat, Lola had shown Oliva everything including the reinforced, steel lined retreat.

After enthusing about the ‘picket-boat’ as Lola christened it, they chatted about the anticipated appearance of ‘Angie’ in a couple of months. Brian once again felt compelled to reinforce the warnings about secrecy but the girls weren’t really interested.
In the confines of the police car and secure company, the girls could genuinely relax and chatter freely. Hopes and ambitions were described while Brian listened intently for any extra clues that Olivia might have revealed about her chat with Angela. There were a few possible snippets but in the main, Brian was forced to conclude that his passengers were little more than two typical teenaged girls giving it large.

It wasn’t long before Brian was parking up in the visitor’s car park as the two girls erupted from the unmarked police car and skipped excitedly down the switchback lane to the towpath and the cottage. Once again their noisy effervescent approach was detected by Babs as she watched through the kitchen window, the kettle was bubbling away as they exploded through the door.

“Hey steady on girls!” Laughed Babs, “you’ll have the door off. Where’s Brian?”

“He’s checking that the caravan is all set up.”

“As the girls clambered upstairs Olivia turned secretively to Lola and invited her into her bedroom.”

“I’ve got something to tell you.” She whispered excitedly.

“What?”

“Bridie told me something before I left the hospital.”

“Well go on. Don’t keep me hanging!”

“Well she says that Angie will definitely be staying here with us and Babs has sanctioned it.”

“How? Where will she sleep?”

Olivia smirked and squinted her eyes sideways to her bed.

“What! There?” Lola gasped.

Olivia nodded and squealed with excitement.

“Ye-eess!”

“But, what does Bab’s say? It’s her house.”

Bridie said Bab’s is okay with it; do you know when my birthday is?”

“No.”

“It’s the end of this month, thirtieth of August.”

“You’ll be sixteen.”

“Yes! But more importantly, Angie’s sixteen on September the ninth. You know what that means.”

“You’ll be legally allowed to have sex.” Lola squealed.

“Exactly. We’re going to need a double bed.”

“What, in here?” Lola scoffed. “Where’re you gonna’ put it? You’ll have no room for clothes or a dressing table.”

“Bugger all that!” Olivia snickered. We’ll be together! Legally! And with Babs’s blessing.”

“You lucky bitches!” Lola replied wistfully, “while I still have to wait for surgery, It’s not bloody fair!”

Olivia suddenly realised she had inadvertently compounded Lola’s abiding despair. She reached out and hugged her housemate.

“I’m sorry Lol’s. I didn’t think. Angie and I will help all we can, I promise you.”

“Like how?”

Olivia paused as she contemplated a thought that had been occasionally occupying her mind for some time. Finally she broached the subject.

“Would you like to become a mum one day?”

“Oh come off it, I - - - -! Ooh! Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

“Yeah, I’d love to have a baby one day. Not just yet of course.” She giggled. “Do your bits still work?”

“Well the nice bit works - still, I don’t know if the little beasties are still swimming.”

“Well get it checked and be quick with some swimmers before your hormones kill em, if they haven’t already.”

“Jeeze!” Lola gaped at her stepsister, “you’ve been mugging up on trans stuff haven’t you?”

Oliva grinned..

“You’re a looker. I’d even fuck you now cos you’re pretty girl with a dick; but I don’ wanna’ fuck my own life up too early with a baby. I saw plenty of that in Brixton.”

"And you'd be two-timing Angie. Don't you think she's got enough shit in her life without a two-timing friend to fuck with her feelings?"

"Yeah, your right. She's had enough shit to fill the Manchester Ship canal.

“Anyway," Lola pointed out, "there’s still a couple of steep hurdles to clear. It costs to freeze sperm and we don’t have the bunce.”

“But we will have.”

“How?” Lola demanded suspiciously.

“ Bridie told me, Angie’s due a lot of money cos of criminal compensation both from the government and from Brixton cos they were responsible for her care. I’m also due a bit cos of the abuse in the same home before Babs showed up. Bridie also said there will probably be a reward for our part in turning in Tyson and his mates. You might even get a bit if the judge thinks so. You did intercede by communicating on my behalf and co-operate with the police.”

“Bloody hell girl, you’ve been thinking this through, haven’t you?”

“I’m not just a pretty face you know. Anyway, this thing isn’t over yet. The more info you and I can squeeze out of Angie the better for everybody. And don’t forget, I’m a bloody good artist. I can draw some perfect likenesses of the rest of Tyson’s gang in London from memory. Only you and a few friends know how good my art is. None of Tyson’s gang have clue. That’s got to count when I present Inspector John with a potential rogues gallery, all with names attached. Angie can help me with the names.”

“That’s all very well, but we need the money now. My little wrigglies could stop any time soon cos I’ve started the hormones.” Lola lamented.

“I’m gonna’ push for an advance." Olivia revealed, "I'll tell the police I won’t co-operate with talkin’ to Angie unless they give me an advance for the sperm-bank!”

“Jeeze, you really are a mercenary bitch Ollie.”

“I want a baby and so do you. If you’re still good for the sperm, well let’s get some frozen. As I said, I like you! Anyway, it’s only costs a couple of thou to freeze enough sperm.”

“What if Angie doesn’t agree?”

“The last time we chatted about this stuff was back in Brixton and she wanted kids then. I don’t know how she feels now. She hasn’t got AIDS though and that’s a plus.”

Lola sat up off the bed and turned to her step-sister.

“This could work but let’s get through the gang-rape thing first..

With that, Bab’s called up the stairs.

“Dinner’s ready! Brian’s back from the Caravan.”

Olivia nodded her head towards downstairs.

“We’d better get down there before Brian scoffs the lot.”

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 11

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Chapter 11

Brian had already started into Dinner when Lola and Olivia appeared in the dining room and Bab’s was busy carving the rest of the roast.

“Mmm! That smells good,” Lola enthused.

“Well get stuck in or this big lummox will have scoffed the lot.” Babs chuckled.

The girls needed no encouragement and soon the dining table was alive with chat. As Olivia polished off the last slice of her first helping of beef she remembered something that Bridie had told her at the hospital. She nervously broached her inquiry.

“Nina.”

“Yes darling.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“By all means petal.”

“When I was talking to Bridie in the hospital we spoke about my friendship with Angela.”

“Ye-ees.” Bab’s responded cautiously.

“She said you knew all about us and I was wondering.” Olivia hesitated.

“Go o-oon.” Bab’s encouraged her

“I hope you don’t think I’m being rude or cheeky but can I ask you something personal?”

“I’ll answer you if it helps with your friendships and the rape gang case but if it just personal nosiness I’ll tell you to mind your own business, is that fair?”

Olivia immediately sensed that Bab’s obviously had some sort of big secret and it obviously concerned what Olivia and Bridie had talked about; namely Olivia and Angela’s lesbian friendship. Otherwise Birdie would not had suggested that Olivia talk to Babs. Olivia pushed on nervously hoping not to somehow offend or hurt the old woman she had come to adore.

“I’m not sure how to broach this but you know that Angie and I have a very deep friendship.”

“You mean your lesbianism?” Bab’s replied bluntly, just to clear the air.

Olivia nearly dropped her fork as she turned to see Brian’s reaction. When he did not even falter with cutting his second portion of the delicious beef, Olivia realised that the information was ‘old hat’ to everybody around the table.

“Bloody hell! If it’s that well known, you’ll know what Bridie and I were talking about.”

“Yes – the sleeping arrangements. Carry on.”

“Bloody hell,” Olivia muttered, “nothing’s sacred around ‘ere. Is it?”

“We can’t have secrets Olivia.” Brian interjected. “Secrets can lead to lies and that could lead to mistakes being made. Fatal mistakes! So what was it you wanted to ask Bab’s?”

Olivia could hardly believe her ears but she pressed on with her concerns.

“Alright then, I’ll come right out and ask.”

“Angela and I could soon be sleeping together but you don’t seem at all concerned and that’s a bit odd for a seventy-three-year-old harridan like you? I’d have expected all the usual shit from somebody your age. How come you're so laid back about it?”

Bab’s grinned then retaliated semi-mockingly.

“Huh! Harridan, is that what you think I am? A harridan!”

Olivia smiled uncertainly but kept her nerve.

“Well no. That’s just it, you’re not a harridan and you’re okay with Angie and I sharing a bed when she comes here. I don’t get it. Why are you so liberal-minded?”

Bab’s suddenly realised that nobody had ever told the young fifteen-year-old what Bab’s was. Anticipating Olivia’s coming surprise, Babs released a soft chuckle before pitching in.

“Tell me Olivia, what do you think it was like for LGBT people way, way back in the nineteen forties and fifties?”

“Pretty shitty, I guess,” Olivia replied.

“Well you won’t ever have to guess again darling. You’re looking at an LGBT fossil. You’re looking at a seventy-three-year-old, post-op trans girl!”

Olivia almost shrieked with shock.

“What!! You’re – you’re trans! A trans girl. Like Lola!”

“Nothing less my little lesbian chickabidee, a trans girl, through and through.”

Olivia was wagging her head as she muttered disbelievingly.

“Fucking hell! That’s some shit man, I mean – the nineteen forties. My granny wasn’t even born then!”

“I think you mean ‘that’s some shit GIRL! A thoroughly modern young miss like you should at least get nouns and pronouns right.”

Olivia was too shocked to respond so Lola filled the stunned conversational void.

“That’s why social services placed me with Bab’s. She understand us and she’s truly sympathetic – to all of us; gays and trans and everything else.”

Olivia stared through an obliquely styled frown as she began to grasp the import of Babs’s revelation. After a prolonged somewhat guilt-ridden silence she finally found the words.

“So all the shit – all the stuff we’ve only read about, the stonewall riots, Alan Turing, the first prides! Everything, you were there.”

Bab’s frowned slightly.

“Well not everything darling. I was around in New York when the stonewall riots were going off, but I certainly didn’t participate. I was a foreign alien working on my ship so I was far too scared to risk being arrested and then deported. I’d have missed my ship, lost my job and all sorts of shit.

I knew nothing about the Alan Turing case until recently.

But as to Police persecution well, (and here Bab’s glanced apologetically towards Brian,) I could write you chapter and verse; – being arrested for ‘behaviour likely to’, - ‘indecency’, - ‘corrupting minors’ and on, and on, and on. ----- and all based on Police prejudice – backed up with viciously cruel, oppressive legislation. I ‘ve never corrupted any minors but it’s on my arrest record going back to the sixties.”

It was Lola’s turn to frown.

“So how did you get passed to be an adoptive mother by the social?”

Bab’s gave a wry little wistful smile.

“Things have moved on Lola dear, besides, who else around here would foster, then adopt a seventeen-year-old transsexual who was sofa surfing then dossing all over Bristol?”

Olivia turned to Brian and observed very provocatively.

“You’re being very quiet Detective Sergeant.”

“Don’t rub it in Olivia. I wasn’t alive in those times either. I can’t apologise for what my predecessors did.”

“And I’m not accusing you Brian,” Bab’s added to defuse the situation, “it’s water over the Dam Olivia, so please don’t use my experiences as your own stick to beat your own drum. I'll support you when I think you're right and argue when I think you're wrong.”

“Aaaww! That’s not fair Nina. The stuff you could tell would cause a revolution.”

“Yes young lady, but who would be the losers. Now, anybody for spotted dick and custard?”

The change of conversation reminded people that there was one of Babs’s famous puddings still to be eaten. Brian was desperate to try it after his twin sister Bridie had enthused about the pudding, but his full belly was swollen like a poisoned pup.

“Give us a while for the beef to go down Bab’s. If I’m eating like this for the next couple of years, I’ll end up looking like a pig.”

Lola smirked as she thought of all the times she had heard the police being referred to as ‘The Pigs’ but she bit her tongue. Brian was a nice guy and she was surprised to feel a twinge of guilt at the idea of making a ‘pig joke’!

“Am I fancying this guy,” she asked herself.

Eventually, the meal was finished and Brian picked his way along the towpath to the caravan. Next time he told himself to remember the bloody torch but he met with no mishaps and soon both the caravan and the cottage were as quiet as the grave.

ooo000ooo

Morning came bright, sunny and very early as Lola took the lock-gates padlock key to unlock the river-lock-gates for Babs. Olivia had started laying up the breakfast table and was enjoying the brilliant dawn over the estuary when Lola returned laughing and giggling with Brian. Olivia studied the couple as Lola skipped through the garden gate then turned to grin as Brian followed her. They had obviously just shared something amusing and yet, Olivia did not feel in anyway jealous.

‘They would make a nice couple if Lola wasn’t cis and Brian wasn’t married with kids.’ She mused.

This thought caused Olivia to realise she was actually luckier even than Lola – she had Angie and in a couple of months Angie would be right alongside her, sharing her life, sharing the cottage - sharing her bed even. She hugged herself with secret anticipation as Lola bounced joyfully through the door.

“Where’s Babs.”

“Feeding the cats.” Olivia replied even as Babs emerged from the tiny utility room that was stuck onto the gable end of the cottage like a carbuncle.

“Morning girls! Morning Brian!”

“Morning Nina!” The girls chorused over Brian’s more thoughtful greeting.

Bab’s picked up on the girls’ joyous mood’s while noting Brian’s thoughtful demeanour. She addressed Brian first.

“No problems I hope.”

“No, no, none at all. It’s just something Lola mentioned on the towpath.”

“Oh, should I know about it?”

“Yes and no.”

Brian turned to Lola and nodded towards Babs.

“You’d better tell your nina Lola, it’s really a matter for you and Olivia to deal with.”

“Me?” Olivia asked.

“Yes, both of you; and the sooner the better. It’s what you and Lola were chatting about yesterday.”

Olivia was about to rip into Lola for betraying their confidentiality but Brian anticipated Olivia’s anger and intervened.

“Hold on Ollie. Lola’s been sensible. She was right to run it by me because we adults can help. The sooner Lola can address the sperm issue, the better.”

“Do tell!” Bab’s observed, “would it be rude of me to ask what this is about?”

Oliva span around in anguish to explain.

“Lola wants to become a mum someday and so do I. Yesterday we were chatting about freezing and storing Lola’s sperm before the hormones make her sterile. It was private and I’m hurt that Lola mentioned it to Brian!”

“I was only getting advice,” Lola protested, “two heads being better than one or more correctly, three heads being better than two.”

“Or better still, four heads being better than three,” Babs added with a smile.

Olivia sniffed defensively as she took the milk from the fridge and added the final touch to the breakfast table.

“She should have asked me first.” Olivia snapped. “I was going to speak to both of you this morning.”

Babs, as ever the mediator between the girls, did her stuff again.

“Well, now’s the best place to sort it. We now understand the agendas. Which of you two girls want’s to explain?”

“Olivia can, I’ve already run some stuff past Brian.” Lola declared.

Babs turned to Olivia with questioning eyebrows.

“It’s the money thing. It costs to freeze sperm and yesterday, up in my room, we were wondering how to approach you or Brian or the social services in Bristol to find out if there was a way.”

After a thoughtful pause Bab’s replied.

“There is a way. When Lola came to me the Bristol social services deposited a lump sum in her fund by way of compensation for when she was surviving on the streets when she should have been in care. Yes. There’s no need to look so shocked. Social services recognise their responsibilities and if a kid goes missing the costs of their care can be set aside if there can be a benefit awarded to the kid later on. It’s entirely discretionary and depends upon a lot of factors, including the child’s circumstances and prospects.

Now that Lola’s done so well and even won her scholarship to Cambridge, Joyce and the welfare team in Bristol see her as one of their success stories. I’m pretty sure they can be persuaded to help Lola freeze her sperm. It’s not like she’s a waste of space or something.”

“Amen to that.” Brian interjected.

“I’ll speak to Joyce ASAP.”

For a moment silence reigned before Brian chose his moment.

“There could well be another cash source. As we came up the tow path just now, Lola asked about criminal compensation for Angie. Well, considering Angie’s injuries and the harm she’s endured; bearing in mind she was frequently beaten by the gang, it’s pretty certain she’s owed a hefty sum. I’ll chat with my sister Bridie because she’s involved with that department as well. There will also certainly be a reward for the help she’s given us in nailing this gang. Indeed, there might even be a modest award for Olivia though I’m not sure for Lola, she did help but it was a minor input. I’m certainly not going to raise any hopes here. It’s best we speak to Bridie, she’s more up on that side than I am.”
The mood around the breakfast table improved considerably and Lola felt a little foot inveigle its way under the table and into her crotch as Olivia gave her a huge grin.

“See. What did I tell you.” Olivia smirked.

Once again, Brian intervened.

“I don’t know what else you chatted about but all I can say is don’t get your hopes too high. I do believe you are entitled to what I’ve said. But don’t count your chickens yet!”

Bab’s injected her snippet.

“Well, the funds for Lola’s sperm already exist because I’ve got letters from Joyce stating what sums are being held on account. I’ll arrange to meet Joyce this week and you should be freezing sperm by next week. There’ll be tests of course but the clinic sorts all that out.”

On hearing this news, both girls teared up and stepped softly around the breakfast table to throw their arms around their ‘nina’. Seated as she was, she indulged them for several minutes then patted their butts like a nanny cuddling a toddler grandchild.

“Now girls, the marina manager mentioned that there might be some jobs for you up with the boats. You’ve got a few hours before the tide’s up cos there are no early takers today.”

The girls grinned and Lola called her Ginger cat as they trotted out through the front door.

Marmalade wasted no time catching up with the girls and boat-owners grinned as they saw the familiar sight of two girls and a ginger cat entering the marina office. The manager got out from behind his desk to explain what work he had and the girls were soon organising the grass-cutting. Marmalade the cat of course took station on the warm roof of the mower-shed to superintend the work and savour the sun.

By evening the grass-cutting, lock maintenance and other work for various boatowners was done and Bridie arrived just as Lola and Olivia were securing the lock for the night. Both girls were tired but considered themselves moderately wealthy with all the tips they’d received on top of their agreed salary. Bridie grinned as she studied the filthy, mud-caked state of the girls before they went to clean themselves up.

First Bridie chatted about the case progress to Babs then she decided to talk to the girls. To her surprise, the pair were just stepping out of the shower as Bridie arrived at the top of the stairs.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 12

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Beverly.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Chapter 12.

“Good gracious girls, do you two shower together?” Bridie squeaked.

“Sometimes,” Olivia revealed, “if we’re stinking and sweaty and muddy like today. It saves electricity for Babs’s bill.”

“But Lola’s still – you know – got her bits.” Bridie finished lamely.

“So? We don’t do anything, so what’s the problem.”

“Does Bab’s know?”

“Yes and she warned us.”

Bridie did a serious double-take. When she was their age she was a veritable nympho and the boys were even worse. The appearance of the pair with their bath-towels wrapped girly style gave her a huge insight into the nature of transgendered girls. Lola wasn’t even erect.

As the girls towelled each other and blow-dried each other’s hair Bridie as surprised to find herself sitting on the edge of the bath while Lola leaned over Olivia with the blower. Finally the pair got dressed in their bras and knickers then snuggled into the warm fluffy dressing gowns and traipsed downstairs to enjoy their ‘TV’ dinners while curled together on the settee.

Bridie followed them down to meet her twin brother Brian and Babs also lounging in the arm-chairs and enjoying their ‘TV-dinners’.

“Do you know about these two showering together?”

“Only when they’re particularly dirty after mowing the lawns or sorting the mud shuts down by the lock.” That blue-grey clay sticks like shit to a blanket. I had to hose myself down with the garden hose in the back yard this afternoon. Good job it was warm and sunny.” Brian revealed as he savoured a long cool lager with his dinner.

“And it sticks like crazy to your hair if you’re the bottom sagger. You have to have somebody help remove it from your hair, especially if you’ve got hair like mine,” Olivia declared, while adding, “tight and curly.”

Bridie was forced to accept their reasons and she just wagged her head in mild disbelief as Bab’s then revealed.

“I used to do it myself before the girls came and it took me hours to get clean. They’ve been a god-send since they started doing it. I never asked them but they just got stuck in one day and they make a game of it the little minxes. There’s good money in it to for them. The canal authority pay them well.”

“And showering up afterwards is fun to.” Olivia giggled.

“Alright!” Bridie riposted, “I don’t want to hear any more. TMI! TMI!”

“So Bridie, what did you come down from Birmingham for?”

“Oh! I almost forgot, what with the shock of these two and the shower. Tomorrow, there are some more detectives coming down from London. They’ve got some questions to ask Angela and they don’t know how much they’ll upset her. Inspector John and I will be listening in but once again, everybody feels if you Ollie, are with her, she’ll be reassured. She’s really attached to you isn’t she?”

Olivia replied softly as her memories ploughed a deep, painful furrow through her consciousness.

“Yeah. We’ve been through some stuff together.”

“I can only guess Ollie; I can only guess.” Bridie declared as she threw an arm around the girl. “Are you prepared to help, yet again girl?”

“Of course. Can Lola come? Yesterday I said I’d try and bring her the next time we met and it would be nice for once if I wasn’t having to lie to her. She does Like Lola – and so do I”

Olivia finished as she rested her head on Lola’s shoulder and snuggled that little bit tighter.

“Certainly she can come. I saw the effect Lola had when all three of you were shopping. Are you coming up tomorrow Brian?”

“Do you need me? They’re fitting up the electronic fish trackers tomorrow and it’s a good opportunity for me to hide the cables for our cameras and sensor stuff amongst their kit. That’s mainly why I was giving the mud shutes an extra clean. The cables can be buried all the way from the locks to the cottage, and along the overspill channel while Severn-Trent are installing their stuff.”

“That’s a pity,” Lola lamented. “I’d have like to have seen that.”

“Don’t worry babes,” Brian reassured her. “There’s still miles of cables to connect the Marina and the Carpark Cameras to the video screens here in the cottage and to fit up the satellite link to Gloucester Police Station then on to Birmingham.”

“Bloody hell!” Lola exclaimed once again. “This is a big op eh! No expense spared.”

“You gorr’it girl!” Brian replied before asking his sister. “Are you staying over tonight in the Caravan?”

“Is it ready bro?”

“Pretty much. Two double berths and the water and electricity are connected. Catering at the moment is here in the cottage.”

Bridie nodded affirmation.

“Okay. It’ll save me driving back home to Bromsgrove and then coming down tomorrow.”

“Yippee! Bridie’s staying over.” Olivia cheered.

After helping Bridie move her basics into the Caravan, the five of them settled down to discuss all elements of the case and Bridie explained what the London police were looking for.

As Bridie described the London aspects of the case, Olivia repeatedly interrupted Bridie’s narrative by advising of events and locations that she and Angie had been a party to before Tyson, Jason and Tyrone became deeply involved with the heavy stuff like kidnapping girls.

That night in the cottage, Bridie eventually felt compelled to call her London colleagues in their Birmingham hotel as some important clue was revealed by Olivia. Eventually the London superintendent could not hold back.

“Seriously Sergeant. Who’ve you got with you in that safe house, is it ‘deep-throat-two’ or something?”

“No sir. Just one very concerned, frightened and angry little lady. You might meet her tomorrow, if Inspector John and the lady herself is happy about revealing her identity.”

“That bad is it?” The London superintendent sympathised.

“Yes sir. She and the girl you want to interview, have walked the walk sir, - - - and it’s a very delicate path. Our girl knows only too well where that path took her best friend.”

“I see,” the London superintendent intoned. “Well until tomorrow then and if your witness wishes to remain anonymous, we’ll respect her wishes provided she answers our questions honestly; even by anonymous telephone.”

Olivia nodded vigorously and Bridie acknowledged her determination as she confirmed over the phone.

“She will sir, she’s very hurt, very angry and very well motivated.”

“Good for her. Give her my thanks.”

Olivia smiled and acknowledged the superintendent’s message as Bridie relayed her thumbs-up.

“She heard you superintendent, and she’s keen to help.

“Thank god! This is going to help the case enormously. See you tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow sir.”

Bridie closed her phone and sighed with satisfaction.

“Don’t know about you lot, but I’m for bed.”

“Same here,” Brian yawned as he went to his car and retrieved his powerful torch.

“We’ll need this, I learned my lesson the other night. It's pitch black out here of a night, no street lights, no other sources of light at all”

They made their farewells and at the same time Babs and the girls retired, - - - closely followed by a marmalade cat.

ooo000ooo

Dawn broke bright and sunny again and the sergeants were amused as well as surprised to hear light-hearted chatter and jangling keys go past the caravan door as Lola unlocked the river gates. Then they were further amused to see the girls posting a big cardboard sign that read, -

Lola and Olivia not on duty today!
If you want help, phone this number. - - - - - It is the marina manager.

The sergeants chuckled as Brian asked Lola. “Is this normal?”

“Yes, when we’re at school the marina staff are the regular operators anyway.” Lola replied as she adjusted the High water and low water times on the notice board clocks.

They were on their way to Birmingham shortly before eight and arrived at Birmingham central police station by nine o’clock after changing into a windowless van in a layby just outside the city. Even then, Bridie suspected a face loitering outside the station as they drove through the gates.

“Look at him. What’s he doing. He’s obviously checking vehicles and that convinces me he’s in the gang.”

“I’m sure he is,” Olivia confirmed as she peeped through space between the curtains. “He was with the very tall bearded bastard standing by the stage at the festival, and I saw him later at the gate talking to Tyson”

“Good girl Olivia. You’ve got an excellent memory for faces girl. Now he’ll be on several cameras by standing there.”

Olivia retreated back into the van then opened her back-pack. After the officers had checked in they returned to the van to collect the girls. There, Olivia handed Bridie a perfect likeness of the man they had just passed talking to a roughly sketched. but very recognisable image of Tyson standing by a marquee. Bridie just gaped at it disbelievingly.

“Where did you get this?”

“I just drew it now, while we were waiting. That’s what I saw outside the entrance to the festival in Gloucester when we became involved in all this.”

Bridie just stared at it totally stunned.

“This is better than our identikit artist. Did you really do this, just now while we checked in?”

Olivia nodded and smiled a little smugly but both officers were too stunned to notice. Brian was already busy on his phone before Bridie had returned to address Olivia.

“Have you got some sort of photographic memory. I mean these are just too stunning to believe.”

“I’ve a long memory for faces and yes, I've been told I can draw.”

“Can you draw any faces you remember seeing when you were on the streets with Tyson and Jason?”

“Some; not all; It’s the same with the names. I can attach some names to some of the faces but not all of course.”

Bridie and Brian were both wagging their heads in amazement as they took the girls into the inner sanctum.

“We’ve got to get you inside, here, put these on.”

Lola held hers at arm’s length while asking.

“Are these what I think they are?”

“Yes, Burqas, niccabs and hijabs.” Bridie replied.
“Bloody hell! Salaam Ali Cum!” Olivia chortled. “Do I have to take this off again to get through security.”

Even the normally phlegmatic Brian smiled as Bridie hustled them through and flashed her sergeant’s badge.

Once inside, they were taken to a high-tech interview suite where only Bridie and Brian sat with them. Several large screens flashed on and the girls were slightly startled to be confronted with two rows of police officers. Lola noted that none of the uniforms were below the rank of inspector but as to the suits she had no idea. However each was introduced by rank and name then the girls were reassured. They relaxed further when Inspector John’s voice came on and another screen lit up.

“Hello again girls. Yes of course you know me and for your peace of mind I can assure you that none of the other interviewers can see you. Only I can see you and your identities are not available to my colleagues.”

He waved and the girls waved back before he started in earnest.

“Right to business then girls. But first your friend Angie is joining you. Please look after her and reassure her for some of the images might truly distress her. I know Bridie and Brian are with you and they are there for the same purposes, to reassure you particularly Olivia if stuff gets too heavy. Okay girls?”

The pair chorused ‘yes’ as another door opened and Angela entered. Once again Olivia studied her momentarily with her artist’s eye for detail before the three girls enjoyed a group hug.

“You’re looking better than last time Angie, keep up the good work girl.” Olivia observed.

“Thanks Ollie; thanks for coming back so soon and thanks for bringing Lola!”

“I wouldn’t miss this for all the – well for anything!” Lola declared as she motioned to the comfortable chairs.

They sat down as Bridie introduced Brian to Angela and the girls vouchsafed him.

“He’s a friend Angie, I can truly say that!” Olivia affirmed.

“Have they told you how it’s going to work?” Angie wondered.

Oliva and Lola nodded affirmation then Inspector John got the interview started.

“Right girls, each police officer is identified on the screen and as you can see they come from several different police forces. I did tell you that this case was big, remember.”

The girls looked askance at the dozen or more police forces listed and quickly recognised that they came from all over Britain. What was more, several were obviously foreign police because their uniforms were nothing like the familiar British ones. Under these officers their own countries and their INTERPOL affiliations were displayed.

“Bloody hell!” Olivia gasped. That one’s from Turkey!”

“As I said,” Inspector John reiterated, “this case is big!”

Now ladies, Different officers are going to mention names and occasionally show pictures of men or even women occasionally and in different places. They will do it slowly and we ask you to take your time, okay?”

The three girls nodded as Bridie squeezed Olivia and Angela’s hands to reassure them.

The operation started and for the first few minutes Olivia and Angela readily recognised faces and names. As they attached names to faces the interview went well then gaps started to appear as names were mentioned and Angela could remember them but did not recognise any faces. Fortunately, although there were no faces available, Olivia could picture a lot of the men she named and she turned away to sketch the faces from memory. When Angie was shown the face by Olivia and Bridie she would sometimes recognise the face although she didn’t know the name. Sometimes she even attached a different name thus confirming that the individual that Olivia had remembered was possibly operating under different aliases.

“They called him Mufhasa in Brighton”, Olivia declared.

“Yeah well I knew him as Omah in Leicester, and that scar over his eye was longer. It made him squint more ‘home-and-away.”

At other times both girls chorused in unison and loudly, at other times they checked to confirm with each other.

“That’s Erica! with Irtan the Cypriot! What country is that?”

“That’s Allus! The Roma! Is that Nottingham. It is, that’s the River Trent!”

Then there would be a gaggle of discussion among several police officers as other facts and different identities were described. Then another question would be asked.

“Have you ever seen him in this coat.”

“No.” Olivia openly admitted as she admired the posh house in the background of what was obviously somewhere Mediterranean.

“Yes! Squealed Angie. “He was wearing that when he beat me up in Leicester.”

“Thank you girls. This establishes where he was on certain dates and what he was doing.”

“And this shirt? Do either of you recognise it.”

“It’s the shirt that had blood on it, the night Tyson and I ran out of the club. I recognise the blue embroidery and those blood stains on the right sleeve." Angie confirmed then struggled to remember other stuff.

“It was the night Arsenal beat Nott’s Forest!” Olivia added as she remembered Angie’s story.”

“Oooh yeah! That’s right, I forgot about that.” Angie admitted.

“You told me about it when you were spaced out the other day.” Olivia reminded her.

And so it went on, dates, locations, faces, sketches, events and names; always names, names, names. Several times Brian came in with cakes and biscuits, tea, coffee and fruit juices.

Eventually the girls remembered less about the images the police were presenting until it became obvious their rich vein of priceless, incriminating information was just about worked out.

Brian and Bridie had served their last cup of coffee and the girls slumped exhausted and distraught as the memories served to haunt them. Even Lola was shattered and she had hardly added any input save to sometimes reassure the girls and lend emotional support when their distress threatened to overwhelm them.

Eventually, Inspector John joined them and even stretched out his arms to hug his thanks. He actually had a daughter the same age as Olivia and Angela and he could not hide the tear as he compared the horrors these two kids had endured compared with his own daughter’s comparatively pampered existence.

“Thank you girls! I just don’t know how to thank you enough.”

“A reward for catching the bastards would be a nice start,” Olivia declared loudly.

“Oh, you’ll be getting that alright. Even the foreign police forces have acknowledged your parts in blowing this crime ring right open. There’s even a reward possibly from as far as Turkey. Olivia, your sketches have been excellent and some of my colleagues have even been able to identify some more criminals. You’ve definitely got a career in forensic art if you want one. Oh, and one final thing. They have found your blond friend Erica. She was on the point of being trafficked into Iran across the Turkish border. She’s not dead”

At this point both Olivia and Angela let the dams burst and tears of relief flooded down their cheeks.

“Come on, I think you girls need to get home.” Bridie declared as she grasped Olivia’s hand.

“Yeah! And what about Angie?” Olivia squealed. “What’s she got to go back to, eh?! A featureless room and a locked door.”

“We’re trying Ollie,” Bridie tried to justify Angela’s ordeal. “We’ll be visiting her again on Saturday, that’s a promise.”

Seeing Olivia’s distressed state, Bridie realised a little extra effort was required on her own part. She studied Olivia thoughtfully then declared - - -.

“Look, I’ll tell you what. Would you like to take her shopping in Cheltenham? I’ve got some business arising at the intelligence headquarters, GCHQ., based on some stuff you’ve revealed. I’ll drive you home again even if it’s after midnight.

“You’re sure of that!” Olivia demanded, “and we’ll definitely come back to meet her again on Saturday, not a day later, and not later than ten in the morning. Saturday morning ten o’clock!”

Bridie agreed their fixing a definite time served to soothe both girls and relax Lola. Eventually they were smuggled out of the Birmingham police station in three Burkahs and they ended up shopping in Cheltenham. All three girls did not get back to the Birmingham hospital until eight p.m.

Even so, after a wonderful day’s shopping and exploring Cheltenham, Olivia felt a huge rock of guilt crushing her heart as she watched her friend being dosed with Naltrexone then escorted into her secure bedroom in the hospital.
As she watched a very tearful Angie being encouraged gently to prepare for the night, a lump jammed in Olivia’s throat. Angie looked so small and vulnerable in her bed as Olivia watched the door being closed. Their eyes met for the last time as the gap narrowed and Olivia gave Angie a guilty little tearful wave just before the door clicked shut.

As she turned and forced herself to walk away, a curse escaped Olivia’s lips. She so wanted to comfort Angie all that night and just be there for her if any terrors came to haunt her in the darkest hours.

She just could not countenance or imagine what torments Angie must have suffered on her long road to recovery. Olivia wanted to simply squat all night outside Angie’s door, like a faithful guard dog..

It took Bridie and Lola all their combined persuasive efforts to get Olivia to accompany them home to the cottage. She wept all the way home in Bridie’s car and even when she got there, she ended up sharing Lola’s bed simply for comfort, reassurance and solace from Lola’s cuddle.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 13.

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola (Seventeen) Barbara’s oldest adopted child. Transgendered girl rescued from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Erica. Another victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

I chose a moderately benign image of an opiod addict prostituting herself on the streets of Philadelpia because even I found some of the images very distressing! It is easy to see that the victim is completely spaced out

Chapter 13.

The next morning Bab’s found the girls still cuddled up in bed at nine a.m. When she had found Olivia’s Bed empty, she immediately realised the distraught younger girl was in her step-sister Lola’s bed because Bridie had chatted to her after the girls had gone up the night before.

To confirm her conviction, Bab’s gently cracked Lola’s bedroom door open and wagged her head with a sympathetic smile when she found the pair fast-asleep and tightly spooned together. She also noted that Olivia's pillow was covered in tearful mascara stains. With an understanding born of her own long-ago youthful experiences, Bab’s left them sleeping and quietly slipped downstairs to start her own and Brian’s breakfast.

The previous day had been an ordeal for Bridie as well so Brian was pouring out breakfast cereals just for himself and Babs because he had now learned exactly what Bab’s preferred in the morning. Over their breakfast the pair chatted.

“How’s your sister?” Bab’s asked.

“I left her zonked out. It must have been a stressful day for her as well, how are those two?”

“Same as Bridie. They’re totally out of it, but at least they had the comfort of sharing. They’re both ‘zonked out’ as you put it, but at least they are together and comforting each other.” Bab’s smiled.

“Ayye,” Brian sighed, “D’ you know, I’m actually glad they’re together. I think there’s far less chance of them running away again now that they’re here in a good home and they’ve both got you to show them love and care. You’re a good woman Barbara Smith.”

“Oh come now Inspector it’s what any caring, decent adult would do.”

“Yes. But even so - -.” The inspector left the sentence unfinished for he had little to add on Babs’s philanthropy. Instead, he talked about the elements of the rape-gang case.

“D’ you know this is a rotten case. I wonder how many girls have been destroyed by these animals?”

“What, here in Britain, or worldwide?” Bab’s replied.

“Well you ask about a whole new ball game when you say worldwide. Putting on my realistic practical copper’s head, I have to hold it down to Britain and perhaps Europe. I lose track of reality if I try to include the world. Can I make myself some more toast?”

“Be my guest,” Bab’s replied then grinned, “well, you are my guest but help yourself anyway.”

Bab’s got up to feed her cats and noticed that both Carbon and Marmalade were missing. Only Rainbow, the female tortoise-shell had appeared.

“Where are the boys?” Babs asked her.

Rainbow looked up, gave a plaintive little ‘miaow’ and resumed feeding. Bab’s grinned but felt forced to wonder and she crept upstairs again. After quietly double checking the lumps under the blankets she was amused to learn that now, Olivia also had a furball friend as well. Both cats were curled up respectively against their human companions. Bab’s quietly replaced the double duvet and sneaked down-stairs.

It was eleven before the girls emerged bleary eyed and embarrassed. Bridie was even more embarrassed to surface around Noon.

The tray of milk and biscuits that Bab’s had left on Lola’s bedside table gave ample evidence that Bab’s had been into the bedroom and obviously knew that Lola and Olivia had slept together. To reassure the girls, she gave them a kindly smile when they nervously appeared in the kitchen as she declared.

“I’m glad to see that you slept well. Obviously you needed it.”

“Nothing happened, honestly Nina!” Lola declared defensively.

“I know girls, the cats would not have been there if you were moving around under the blankets. Now breakfast or lunch?”

“Shall I make some bacon and eggs and stuff?” Olivia asked.

“Certainly, I can get on with the laundry. Lola darling can you strip the beds?”

“Will do Nina, shall I go and get the Caravan stuff as well?”

“That would be an enormous help. Thank you. Bridie should be up by now, but don’t disturb her if she isn’t.”

“Where’s Brian?” Lola asked.

“He’s gone to Gloucester nick. He said he’ll be back by four.”

The three of them pitched into what had now become something of a family routine. Except that now the girls had two cats following them wherever they went. When Lola returned with the first load linen from the caravan, Bridie accompanied her.

“Morning Bab’s; don’t look at me like that! I haven’t been skiving! I’ve been phoning around from my bed most of the morning.”

Bab’s raised a questioning eyebrow and Bridie pressed her case.

“I have! I’ve been on the phone to the criminal compensation board. Angela’s owed a substantial sum and Olivia’s owed some monies as well.”

“How much?” Olivia asked eagerly from the kitchen.

“They didn’t say; big-ears!” Bridie laughed. “You shouldn’t eaves-drop on other conversations!”

“Brian said no secrets between us; it could lead to mistakes and danger.”

Both adults exchanged knowing looks as Bab’s riposted to Bridie. “Touché!”

“Hurry up and make that brunch smarty-pants!” Bridie joshed.

Olivia returned to her task and soon emerged from the kitchen with the meals while declaring.

“I’m just a slave around here,” though the grin on her face belied her words.

At that moment Lola overheard Olivia’s declaration of emancipation just as she returned from the caravan with the second bundle of bed linen.

“Yeah! That’s what we are, slaves. We want liberty!”

“Shurr’up and eat! Just be thankful you’ve got food in your bellies serfs!” Bab’s riposted.

The mood of levity stayed as they chose to eat in the front garden al fresco while chatting amicably. Then several boats arrived from Gloucester simultaneously and asked for help to drop in the lock. The girls immediately offered their help and Bab’s cackled with mirth as she obviated the joke about slavery.

“If you two are slaves then it’s slaves to money and little else.”

Her words were lost to the girls as they dashed down to prepare the lock. Bab’s wagged her head and smiled at Bridie as she asked.

“When will they next see Angela?”

“Three or four days at most. Brian’s checking who will be attending the next big question session after the various ‘follow-ups’ from the other countries.”

Even as Bridie spoke, her phone vibrated in her pocket. She pulled it out and glanced knowingly to Bab’s as she recognised the caller.

“Hi bro, what news?”

“Are the girls there?”

“No, they’ve just gone down to start the tide at the lock.”

“Oh. Is Bab’s there?”

“Yes.” Bridie replied as she anticipated Brian’s request and put her phone on speaker. “She’s alongside me here, I’m on speaker.”

To speed up the conversation, Bab’s interrupted.

“What’s the news Brian, why’ve you called?”

Without hesitation, Brian explained.

“They’ve brought the girl Erica back from Iran. She wasn’t in Turkey when they finally rescued her. She’d actually been smuggled across the border but the Iranian authorities came up trumps. She was flown straight from Tehran to London on the earliest possible scheduled flight, it was actually a Chinese airline.”

“What state is she in?” Bab’s asked.

“I’ve had no precise news of that. All the email from Iran said was that ‘The child is very confused and distraught.”

“Well of course she’ll be confused! She’s addicted for heaven’s sake. And because she’s addicted, they ’ll have to be treating her as she travels. If not, she could suffer irreparable damage!”

“I’m sorry Bab’s I don’t have any more information about that yet. What I am asking is if Olivia is prepared to meet the girl if the doctors think it will help. I’m thinking the girl is suffering from delusional paranoia and can’t trust anybody. Maybe meeting Olivia or even Angela might help her.

To this end, I’m working to get Erica placed in the Birmingham unit after she arrives. Then we can put the three of them together IF the doctors think it will help.”

“So you want Bridie and I to talk with Olivia?”

“Please! Yes. Urgently.”

“I don’t think Olivia will take much persuading,” Bridie answered confidently. “When’s the plane due in Heathrow?”

“It’s scheduled to arrive in about two or three hours. Inspector John and I will be blues and two’s to Heathrow as of right now. The Superintendent from London will be there as well and I shouldn’t wonder somebody higher; one of the Met commissioners maybe. This case has gone nuclear! Ask Olivia if she’ll be prepared to travel to Birmingham or even London tonight.”

“Okay.” Bridie replied abruptly as she shut her phone off and ran towards the river lock where Olivia and Lola had started helping the boats.

ooo000ooo

“Olivia, go and scrub up girl and get ready to travel!”

“Wha -! What for?”

“We might be going to Birmingham or London tonight!”

“Why?”

“Your friend Erica. How friendly were you to her?”

“Very close, why.”

“They found her in Iran. She’d already been trafficed the Turkish border. She’s on her way back to London right now but she’s very confused and distressed. They think or hope that seeing you and/or Angie, might help to reassure her. You know, finding herself amongst friends again.”

Olivia turned beseechingly to Lola.

“I’ve gorra’ go Lol! I’m sorry, Erica’s my second best friend!”

Lola nodded vigorously.

“What – choo hanging around here for girl. Move it! Don’t worry about the boats! I’ll sort them. Do whatever it takes and do whatever they ask. Give my regards to Angie as well.”

Within twenty minutes, Bridie and Olivia were speeding down the M5 to pick up the M4 at Bristol thence on to Heathrow airport. Olivia was glad the car had a ‘four-point, full harness seat-belt.

They arrived at Heathrow and were directed straight to a specialist immigration suite were Olivia recognised Angela, Brian and Inspector John. The two girls fell into a tearful embrace then gasped as the superintendent entered with a skeletal husk of their friend Erica. When Erica failed to respond both girls gave a wail of despair and Bridie immediately took it upon herself to reassure them with a motherly hug.

Behind the superintendent there appeared the travelling nurse supplied by Médecins Sans Frontières then an immigration doctor who invited everybody into a specialist suite. The nurse described what medications Erica had received while travelling in her brief period of care and the immigration doctor took some blood samples.

“I’ll get these checked right here at the drug abuse lab. We usually use it to check on mules and other drug smugglers. Give me twenty minutes.”

“Crickey!” Bridie whispered to the girls. “It takes our boys an hour or two to check bloods.”

Both Olivia and Angela hardly heard Bridie’s attempt to reassure them for they were staring in shock at Erica’s bruised and emaciated condition. Indeed, her condition was so bad that the nurse gently helped her to slump onto the large settee that was obviously used for such interludes.

“Will she live?” Olivia whispered nervously to the nurse.

“We think so, the first thing is to get her stabilised and find out what they’ve been dosing her with.”

As she spoke the nurse realised that Olivia was about to explode with frustrated anger and she gently grasped Olivia’s hand while whispering.

“Steady darling. Erica’s seriously traumatised and we’ve no idea yet what brutality she has been exposed to. Your getting angry might just trigger a detrimental reaction so ‘hold on in there’ baby.”

Olivia gave a sob and Bridie was surprised yet secretly pleased to see Angela inveigle an arm around Olivia's waist. Bridie well knew that empathy was another psychological indicator and the friendly hug showed that Angela was on the road to recovery.

‘Now it remained to see what could be done for the poor kid that had just been delivered into their care.’ Bridie figured.

She was disturbed from her introspections by Olivia’s nervous request.

“Is it safe for me to hug her?”

Bridie glanced questioningly to the nurse who nodded very slowly as a sign to take it very slowly and not expose the catatonic victim to any sudden, unexpected actions.

With tears pouring down her cheeks, Olivia carefully took station on the large settee then cautiously sidled along it towards Erica. Both the nurse and Bridie were watching like cats watching mice as eventually, Olivia reached cautiously towards Erica’s hand.

While doing this she softly repeated her name.

“Erica. It’s me Olivia. Olivia. Olivia from room seventeen.”

The only response Olivia could recognise was that Erica’s head turned towards the sound of a voice but the eyes were empty; devoid of all spark.

‘Fuck!’ Olivia thought. ‘She’s far worse than Angie was!’

For want of anything more constructive, Olivia just left her hand gently clasping Erica’s while motioning to Angie to sit on the other side. Again, Bride was poised to act as Angela slowly settled on the settee and cautiously copied Olivia’s approach. Within minutes both girls were stroking Erica’s knuckles.

Bridie glanced towards the nurse who whispered again.

“Well she hasn’t reacted violently or fearfully; perhaps there is something going on. She tensed up with fear every time I or any of the Iranian or Embassy staff tried to touch her.”

Bridie and her brother, Detective Sergeant Brian continued watching the situation on the settee and both exchanged surprised glances when they noticed Erica’s hands slowly open then close; once at first, then several times as Olivia kept slowly repeating her name.

They both wanted to say something but were both too afraid to break the spell as they heard the nurse give long, soft sigh of relief.

On hearing the nurse’s response, Olivia looked up nervously and stopped stroking the back of Erica’s hand as she momentarily released it. Then everybody noticed Erica’s hand reach out, grab Olivia’s and hand pull it back to her face. Olivia looked up uncertainly as she sought assurance.

“Keep talking darling, keep saying your name,” the nurse whispered as Bridie nodded vigorously and smiled.

Bab’s New year’s Resolution 14.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 14

With Erica now gripping Olivia’s hand and pressing it against her cheek, Olivia was at a loss as to how to proceed.

She was convinced that any sort of reaching out to cuddle Erica and thereby increasing the intimacy - or worse, invading Erica’s defensive aura, would cause harm. She looked across at Angie and whispered nervously.

“Where you like this Ange? You know, when they first found you?”

Angela was obviously too distraught to reply coherently. She just continued stroking Erica’s other hand until Olivia tried to intimate by sign that Angela might try bringing Erica’s hand to her lips or the other cheek. At first Angela did not understand until Oliva, in desperation to go forward, cautiously leaned over and kissed Erica’s hand even as their entwined fingers remained pressed against Erica’s cheek. Angela grasped Olivia’s meaning and after canting her head inquisitively towards the nurse, she cautiously followed suite. Within moments, both Olivia and Angela were grazing Erica’s cheeks and fingers with their lips.

Erica let out an uncertain whimper and both girls nervously endeavoured to pull back but to their surprise - and delight, Erica determinedly gripped their hands and continued pressing them against her cheeks.

The nurse and Bridie exchanged delighted smiles while Brian nodded cautiously on the periphery of the group. He knew to stay outside Erica’s comfort zone, for he was a man and it was almost certainly men that had so damaged Erica’s psyche.

Eventually, Olivia’s neck and back began to ache with leaning across and stretching to reassure her friend. She let out a nervous sigh and carefully disentangled her fingers from Erica’s.

“I’m getting stiff Babes; I have to sit back.”

Erica eventually relaxed her grip and Olivia released a soft gasp.

“Thanks Babe’s.” Olivia croaked for the emotion was overwhelming her.

She went to stand but Erica whimpered again.

“Stay!”

“We’re not leaving you Babes, neither of us.” Olivia assured her.

“D ’you want to come with us?” Angela asked as she slowly started to also unlock their fingers.

“Where?”

“To my clinic, my hospital.” Angie advised her then added. “They’re really nice and Kind. I’m staying there. We’ll be together.”

Neither Olivia nor Angie were certain if Erica was registering stuff and they looked to Bridie for answers. Bridie recognised their fears and replied.

“It’s too soon to say girls but we’re arranging even now to place her with you Angela. We’re hoping that you and Olivia can help build her confidence and perhaps find anything out.”

“How long before she’s back with us?” Olivia asked the nurse.

“We can’t be sure yet. Sorry that’s the best answer I can give. I’m hoping it’s a matter of months up to when she’s fully cognoscente.”

“Can you give her some methadone now?” Angela asked, “It helped me.”

“When the doctor returns with the blood tests.” The nurse reassured her. They’ve got different treatments for heroin or opium, or even cocaine. We have to be certain.”

Even as they spoke, Erica started to shake and squirm alarmingly as she franticly scratched and rubbed her skin. With that, she slumped back onto the settee and started to squirm and moan but the squirming soon erupted into convulsions and the moaning escalated into screams of pain as she alternately hugged then thumped her abdomen in a desperate attempt to relieve the cramps.

Olivia let out a wail of despair for she felt helpless to do anything but Angela could understand and empathise with her crippled friend' She dropped on the settee and quickly smothered Erica by wrapping her arms around Erica’s waist and feverishly massaging Erica’s stomach. As she worked her hands against Erica’s abdomen she looked up beseechingly to Olivia.

“Help me. Try and hug her.”

Olivia hesitated for the briefest moment as she watched Erica still convulsing and thrashing in pain, then she realised Angela was actually being hurt inadvertently by Erica’s flailing arms. She flopped down on the settee again and cautiously inveigled her arms under and then around Erica’s arms.

Despite her effort to be gentle, Olivia found she was compelled to resist the arm-flailing with an unexpected degree of force. It was a force that simultaneously caused her guilt and regret as she clenched her jaw and strained with every sinew to stop Erica from injuring herself, or Olivia and Angela.

For fully ten minutes the two friends struggled to restrain their demented friend while the adults were fearful to intervene because of Erica’s embedded sense of paranoia about contact with strangers. Then, to everybody’s relief the doctor returned with the blood test confirming Erica’s Heroine and Opium addiction.

In his other hand he held a syringe containing a suitable dose of the correct medicine. As he prepared the injection Olivia was forced to admit to everybody assembled.

“I’m not sure I can hold her still; you’re gonna’ have to help me. I’m sorry.”

“With that both Brian and Inspector John pitched in with their strength while Bridie reassured the girls.”

“You’ve done wonders, both of you. Now you know what it takes.”

With that, the doctor completed the injection and Erica started to relax as Olivia and Angela ruefully rubbed their bruised arms and scratched hands. Both girls were panting heavily after such strenuous efforts.

With calm restored, the remaining immigration and medical formalities were completed and Olivia found herself being driven with both Angela and Erica in a police minibus to Birmingham.
As Brian drove, Inspector John sat in the front passenger seat that was divided off from the rear section so that he and Brian were invisible to Angela.
Bridie sat with the girls and the nurse in the comfortable high-backed rear seats. The mood was sombre but simultaneously relieved and Bridie began to feel some hope. To lighten the mood she suggested a stop at a Mac Donald’s café en route and everybody was relieved when Erica ate some chicken nuggets and fries then, more importantly, kept them down and didn’t vomit.

At midnight, they arrived at the Birmingham hospital unit exhausted but in better frames of minds.

“Right girls,” Bridie declared, “bed I think.”

There were no objections.

ooo000ooo

In the morning, Olivia awoke confused at first before she remembered where she was. She tip-toed out of her room to slip into the little kitchen while still wearing the hospital supplied nightwear. She had hoped to make herself a private mug of coffee but instead, she bumped unexpectedly into Bridie and the nurse who were sipping coffee around the little kitchen table with Brian and Inspector John.

“Morning,” she offered blearily as she poured herself a mug and loaded it with sugar.

A chorus of subdued ‘mornings’ met her greeting as she took her seat and picked a couple of biscuits off the plate.

“So, what happens now?” Olivia asked.

“The long haul starts.” Bridie explained. “We start getting Erica clean.”

“Where are they now?” Olivia asked, “both of them that is.”

Brian nodded towards the door.

“Well Angela’s here. Morning young lady.”

Olivia span around and squeaked with delight. Her early appearance meant Angie had not been locked in her room overnight, - and that meant she was ‘clean’. Olivia erupted with joy from her chair and hugged Angie even as her friend tried to make mug of tea,

“Your door wasn’t locked!” Olivia grinned with delight. “So they’re trusting you now.”

Angela grinned back as she leant against the work-top and savoured her tea before asking.

“Where’s Erica?”

“Probably still fast asleep,” the nurse explained.

“We gave her a good dose last night to give her a break. Ah, here’s the ward sister now.”

Everyone turned expectantly as the ward sister entered and declared.

“She’s still knocked out. When she comes round, we’ll be running more tests.”

Olivia sighed hopefully.

“I suppose I'll be going back home later. Can I see her before I go?”

The sister nodded affably.

“She’s not a prisoner. You can come and see her now if you want, but she’s zonked. Angela will explain.”

“Yeah, apparently when I first came, I was fed on a drip and totally unconscious for a couple of days. It’s the best way to get over the first few days of withdrawal, especially the stomach cramps and stuff. Believe me Ollie, the stomach cramps really hurt!” She reflected.

Olivia squeezed her friend and nodded.

“I still want to see her again, before I go home.”

Angela thrust her bum away from the work surface and took Olivia by the hand as the sister led them to Erica’s room. The bunch of keys rattled noisily and Olivia thought they were so loud they would have woken Erica but when she finally reached Erica’s bed she realised the reality.

Erica lay a still as a corpse with the drip feeding her arm.

“It’s the best place to be Ollie,” Angela assured her. “She’s totally out of it.”

Olivia bent down and kissed Erica’s forehead before thanking the sister and reluctantly returning to the kitchen. Angela copied her. There was nothing either of them could do until the bruised and emaciated Erica was conscious again. When the girls returned to the kitchen, Brian and Inspector John were preparing to leave while the Médecins Sans Frontières nurse was writing up her journal and medical notes.

She looked up and smiled at the pair.

“Well, a successful outcome for once. Back to London for a couple of weeks break with my mum and dad, then to Paris and the middle east again for me.”

“You must have an interesting life.” Olivia opined.

The nurse wagged her head.

“Not really. I was homeward bound anyway that’s why I ended up escorting her home. Most of my work is in war zones treating malnutrition, rape and abortions, same old, same old, - not pleasant.”

Angela shuddered and reached for the kettle to make another mug of tea. It was a deflection move to try and rid her head of the images that the nurses' remarks had conjured up.

“Yes. I’ll have another thank you,” the nurse asked as she recognised Angela’s endeavour, and thus by responding, she gave value and purpose to Angela’s unwitting tactic.

Olivia being inexperienced, did not react so the nurse reinforced some inclusivity by adding.

“And Olivia would like coffee.”

“Wha-! Oh. Yes. Strong and sweet please.”

They were sitting around the kitchen table discussing the nurse’s work when Bridie eventually returned from attending a meeting with the clinic staff, her brother and Inspector John. She was smiling.

“I’ve been chatting to the sister and the doctors.”

Both girls fell expectantly silent.

“And?” Olivia pressed.

“It seems you should be fit for release in a week or two Angela.”

Angela’s expression clouded with uncertainty as she wondered.

“And then what? Where will I go?”

She missed the briefest of knowing glances between Bridie and Olivia as Bridie replied non-commitedly.

“You’ll be moved to a safe house. You have to be kept safe until the trial and that could take months or years.”

“Will I be able to see Olivia or even Erica.”

“Uhm, that remains to be seen darling. I hope you will but it’s essential that your and Olivia’s locations are kept secret. Your safety is of the most paramount importance. That, and keeping you clean of drugs.”

Angela fell silent as she wondered if she would ever be free of the addiction blight that had so destroyed her life.

Olivia fell silent for she desperately waited for the day when she, and Lola and Bab’s could surprise her with the delightful prospect of accepting her into their home and Olivia’s bed. It pained her desperately to see her friend Angie so fearful of her future.

It was a very distraught Olivia who bid her friend Angie farewell before slipping on the burkah and sneaking out of the hospital in an unmarked van.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 15

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 15

When Bridie and Olivia arrived at the canal cottage Babs met them at the garden gate.

“Where’s Lola,” Olivia asked as she allowed Carbon to leap off the garden wall onto her shoulders.

“She’s gone into Bristol with Shirley and the children.”

“Oh, that’s a pity; I wanted to speak to her about Angie.”

“They’ll probably be back around sevenish.” Bab’s replied then asked. “She’s still coming here isn’t she?”

“Yes, as far as I know but it just seems so unfair to keep Angie in ignorance – you know, not knowing where she’ll be placed when she’s free of the addiction. Angie’s going mental with fear and uncertainty. Especially since she learned about me being back in her life.”

“Well, there’s nothing we can do I’m afraid. The less they know about the police plans in the hospital, the safer our cottage will be.” Babs assure her.

“But Angie thinks everybody is fucking with her life by allowing her to first meet with me and then snatch her away by posting her to a safe house far away.”

Babs sensed Olivia’s distress and she came down necessarily heavy.

“Listen Olivia darling. You have to be strong and resolute. I know the uncertainty is messing with Angie’s head but it’s the best way to protect her. Nobody in the hospital has any idea where the police are placing Angie once she is discharged and let’s keep it that way, right girl!”

“Yeah, you’re right. It’s just that Angie is just so worried about it.”

“Nevertheless girl; mum’s the word; okay!”

Olivia resolved to follow Babs’s instruction but the remaining visits to see Angela in the unit caused her severe distress. These issues loaded on top of the situation surrounding Erica caused Olivia a lot of heartache but she stuck resolutely to the plan. Finally the day of Angela’s release came.

Inspector John arrived first in an unmarked car then introduced Angela to another anonymous plain-clothes female officer who had arrived to collect her secretly. Once Olivia was reassured that the strange police officer was bona-fida she agreed to accompany her to wherever the police were taking her. Then the tears came as she presumed she was to be moved far away from her friend Olivia.

The lady officer gave Angela a reassuring hug and handed her the requisite Burkah.

“You have to put this young lady. I’m told your friends always arrived and departed in this mode.”

“Bloody Hell,” Angela laughed as she donned the black shroud. “What’s this, has sharia law arrived in Birmingham already?”

“Get in young lady, and don’t make any noise as we leave.”

Angela scowled irritably as she donned the disguise and accompanied the two police officers to the van. There she sat in the windowless rear section with Inspector John while the lady officer drove them out through the hospital gates.

“Now can you tell me where I’m going?” Angela asked.

“Not yet kiddo.” Inspector John replied. “We’ve got one more security switch to make. Officer Wilkins does not know where we’re taking you so we are swapping drivers shortly.”

After about twenty minutes of driving, Angela felt the van start rocking and bouncing as it lurched down a rough forest track. Eventually it stopped and she heard the drivers changing. There were three knocks followed by two knocks then Inspector John replied with four knocks and the van resumed moving. Soon Angela felt them return to metalled roads then she realised the van was travelling down a motorway.

“Now can you tell me where I’m going?” She asked the inspector.

For an answer he smiled then unfastened the small panel in the security bulkhead. Angela was leaned forward and was delighted to see Bridie at the wheel. She gave a shriek of delighted relief. At least it seemed that there was going to be somebody she could trust and relate to involved in her transference.

“Where are we going Bridie. Where are you taking me?”

“A couple of more minutes Angie.” Bridie encouraged. “I think you’ll be happy with the place we’ve chosen.”

“Where?” Pleaded Angela as she poked her head further through the opening and Bridie had to caution her.

“Sit back babe’s the road gets bumpy and you could injure your neck on the edge of the frame. You’re also breaking the law if you’ve undone your seat belt. Sit back please babes.”

Reluctantly she sat back as Inspector John smiled encouragement.

“Literally Angie. It’s just a couple of minutes. Ah! There we are, there’s the lane.”

They stopped in the visitor’s car-park at the top of the lane and paused to let Angela drink in the view. She sighed and turned wistfully to the Inspector.

“It looks lovely. What river is that?”

“That’s the Severn Angie. Come on were safe here we can share the front seats, three abreast.”

Angela leapt out of the windowless rear compartment and clambered into the cab. On sliding across to the centre seat, she leaned across and kissed Bridie on the cheek. Bridie resumed moving and the van picked it’s way down the switch-back narrow lane until it emerged onto the towpath. Angela let out an even bigger gasp of pleasure as she drank in the wide winding river bordered by forested slopes. Then she frowned slightly.

“It looks awfully remote. Am I going to be sequestered away here until the trial? Olivia said it may be up to two years before they get to trial.”

“It might well stretch to that Angie but I think you’ll get to like it here. There’s the cottage where you’ll be staying. Isn’t it pretty?”

Angela was forced to concede that the cottage and setting was truly idyllic but still her heart felt heavy as they stepped through the garden gate and Bridie took out a jangling bunch of keys. She made a show of trying out the keys until she ‘found’ the right key and opened the front door. Angela followed her in and was surprised to find that the cottage was warm and felt inviting. From the outside it had looked uninhabited.

She turned uncertainly to Inspector John.

“Is there somebody already living here?”

“See for yourself.” Bridie invited as she opened the living-room door.

Angela stepped forward to see and let out a shriek of delight.

“Ollie-ee!!”

“Angie-ee!

Angela flung herself into Olivia’s arms and burst into tears as Olivia declared.

“Welcome to the safe house sister!”

Even Inspector John found it hard to hold back a tear as the pair crushed each other in a hysterical embrace and huge sobs of pure joy convulsed their shoulders. As the pair continued squeezing and hugging, Bridie signed ‘Tea?’ to Bab’s who had already anticipated their arrival. She opened the door to the dining room to reveal a table full of celebratory cakes and sandwiches pre-prepared for their coming.

Slowly the joyful tears abated and the girls were invited to join the others around the table. Then Lola emerged from the kitchen with a tray of teacups and makings.

“Shall I be mummy?” She asked as Angela let out yet another squeal of surprised delight.

For a moment she stood transfixed with incomprehension before Lola explained.

“Yes Babe’s, I live here too. Welcome to La Maison Securitas.”

Once again, Angela scrambled from her seat and flung her arms around the older girl.

“Steady on darling. Let me pour the tea.”

Angela was having none of it and Bridie had to rescue the tray from Lola’s arms thus enabling Lola to return Angela’s hug. After more tears and tremors of pure delight, the exhausted Angie settled back on her chair while Bab’s produced some tissues to wipe her eyes. When she had recovered herself she looked at Bab’s to confirm.

“And I’m definitely staying here – with Ollie, - and Lola?”

“Most definitely darling,” Bridie confirmed as Bab’s nodded and smiled, “it makes the logistics easier if you are all in the one place. Now eat your tea and we’ll explain the rules. They’re not onerous; Lola and Olivia find them easy to follow so here’s a page of do’s and don’ts.”
She passed the page across to Angela who scanned them eagerly as she bit into her cake. When she finished, she looked up.

“Is that all. Basically just shut up and don’t blab.”

“Exactly. If you chat with these two,” Bab’s explained as she waved her hand to encompass Lola and Olivia, “they’ll explain any wrinkles. “Now, the next thing is sleeping arrangements.” Bab’s continued mundanely. “I’m told you’re over sixteen; that’s right isn’t it.”

“Uuhm, yes.”

“Good, have you any objections to sharing a room with Olivia?”

Angela frowned uncomprehendingly before asking as she looked around at the dining room and roughly judged the size of the cottage.

“If there’s room, no.”

Then her eyes widened with stunned realisation as she grasped the import of Babs’s words.

“Aaahh! You mean share-share.”

“Precisely.” Bab’s replied with a finality that left no doubt in Angela’s overloaded brain.

As her jaw worked to create words, Olivia removed all doubt.

“There’s plenty of room babe’s – in my bed! Well – our bed now!”

Angela’s gape turned to a nervous question directed at Inspector John and Sergeant Bridie.

“Are we allowed to – you know?”

Bridie shrugged as the inspector nodded and confirmed.

“Surely you don’t think we would allow you to share a bed and prevent you from sharing each other. That would be downright cruel – abusive even!. You’re both over sixteen, aren’t you?”

“Yes!” The girls chorused simultaneously

“And are you both consenting to sharing a bed?” Bridie asked.

“Yes! Definitely!” Both girls chorused again.

“Then I believe you are legally allowed to have an intimate relationship.” Bab’s finished for everybody.

At this news, Angela squealed and hugged Olivia. Then large tears started to pour down Angela’s cheeks so, like the mother hen she had become to the girls, Bab’s produced a box of tissues.

For several minutes, the mood became sombre as Angela dabbed continuously at her tears while the adults and Lola began to grasp the intensity of the shared feelings between Olivia and Angela.

Eventually, Bab’s felt forced to help things along so she asked Olivia.

“Don’t you think it time you showed Angie her new bedroom?”

Olivia suddenly remembered that only that last weekend, Bab’s had bought a new ‘Princess’ style canopied bed for Olivia and Angela to cement their relationship.

“Oh! Damn, yes! The bed! I forgot it completely in all the excitement. Quick Angie. You’ve just got to see the new bed!”

She seized Angela by the wrist and almost dragged her upstairs then flung open her bedroom door.

Against the end wall stood the ‘four-poster’ style bed complete with gauze curtains lending it an air of arabesque mystery. Angela shrieked with delight as she kicked off her shoes and flung herself across it while frantically unbuckling her hot-pants and unbuttoning her blouse.

“Hey! Take it easy nympho!” Olivia giggled. “Have you forgotten we’ve got guests? Button those up and come downstairs again. We can’t just desert our guests.”

“Spoil-sport!” Angela pouted as she began to sulk. This is supposed to be, - like our wedding night!”

“Well not quite ‘wedding night’ babes, - more like our honeymoon night. But it’s not NIGHT yet! Look outside! It’s still daylight. We’ll have all night to savour each other. Now let’s go back down to the others. Screwing each other up here is just plain rude, - and selfish. Especially after all Bab’s is doing for us.

Angela stared thoughtfully at her erstwhile friend and soon to be lover.

“You like Bab’s don’t you?”

“You bet I do girl and you’d better believe that Lola does as well! That old woman has worked wonders for us. You’ll find out how much when you come to live with us, cos’ she’ll most probably end up doing the same for you. Don’t you ever hurt Bab’s either emotionally or physically. She means the earth to Lola and me.”

Olivia’s warning brought several truths home to Angela and the pair returned to the living room to find Bab’s and the two police officers examining documents. Lola was also studying some stuff on her lap-top. Bab’s looked up and smiled at Angela.

“Happy with the living arrangements darling?”

Angela gulped a grateful ‘yes’ before emotions overtook her and she stumbled forward to embrace the old woman. As Bab’s responded with open arms she explained regretfully to Angie..

“I’m sorry your bedroom is a bit small at the moment but we’ve got hopes of expanding the cottage with various criminal compensation awards to pay for the building. If you want to come on board, I’ll make you welcome and I’m sure these two will; won’t you?”

Her gaze fell on Lola and Olivia who nodded vigorous affirmation.

Angela’s single tear erupted into a full-blown flood as her emotional dam finally burst and she flopped down on the settee. Bab’s had been waiting for this essential moment and settled on the settee beside the damaged kid to reassure her and substantiate the sense of security that Angela so desperately needed.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 16.

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 16.

As Angela continued weeping into Babs’s blouse, the old woman motioned to Lola to bring a towel.

“I’m getting rather wet.” She mouthed silently.

Lola grinned as she took a warm towel from the airing cupboard and handed it to her Nina.

“She looks about all in,” Lola remarked to nobody in particular. “I think the best place might be where she wanted to be an hour ago. – Bed.”

Bridie and Inspector John were reluctantly forced to agree. Angela was beginning to grow pale with exhaustion as her sobs became more convulsive. Then to everybody’s relief, Angela fell asleep. Without hesitation, Inspector John lifted the girl-child in his arms and carried her up to the bedroom. Olivia followed him into her bedroom and met his concerned gaze.

“I’ll undress her for bed, no funny stuff I promise.”

“Well done girl. You’re growing up and that’s a good thing.”

To Olivia, praise from the inspector was praise indeed and she felt a warm glow of satisfaction as he closed the bedroom door and left her to attend to her friend.

Once Angela was in her nightie and between the sheets, Olivia returned downstairs to find the adults and Lola quietly discussing the next steps going forward.

“Shall I make some cocoa?” She asked.

Heads nodded and after making the drinks, Olivia joined Lola curled up on the settee. The discussions went on for a couple of hours and Olivia learned a lot. The Strangest was being told that Lola and she then Angela were now publicly referred to as 'Children 'Ex' , Y and Zed.' Eventually, the day’s events began to take their toll and she yawned unashamedly before announcing she was going up.

“I think I’ll go too,” Lola announced, “You shower first babes, or we can save water and shower together.”

Olivia glanced uncertainly towards Babs who shrugged her lack of concern as she observed.

“It’ll save water and allow me to go up earlier as well. Off you go girls.”

“Well, I’m for bed as well, Bridie declared.

Inspector John glanced up from the table.

“I’ll follow in an hour sis. Just got these forms to sort out.”

As midnight approached, Babs emerged from the bathroom and was approaching her room when she met Lola on the landing.

“Are they asleep?” She whispered to Lola.

Lola nodded, “I think so, are you going to check.”

Bab’s nodded and gently eased the catch on the old cottage style door.. They both peeped carefully inside to see two sleeping figures spooned together with hair splayed over the pillow.

“I don’t see any mascara tear-stains on the pillow so Job done I hope.” Babs whispered as Lola grinned affirmation.

As Bab’s gently closed the door so as not to disturb the sleeping pair, Lola leaned over and placed a soft kiss on Babs’s neck..

“Wha’ss that for?” Bab’s asked in surprise.

“Just to say thanks, thanks for everything.”

“Oh tish girl! It’s what any decent person would do for kids in trouble.”

“With a warm heart, Bab’s padded softly to bed while Lola completed her ablutions. The last thing Bab’s heard was Lola whispering to Marmalade as she returned with the cat to her bed. She was fast asleep when Inspector John had completed his paper-work and picked his way along the towpath to the caravan.

ooo000ooo

At dawn a long plaintive ‘Miaoww’ dragged Bab’s and Lola from their slumbers. Then there was a soft click followed by some whispering that Bab’s recognised as Olivia talking to Carbon her adoptive cat. The next moment there was a squeal followed by a muted curse as Bab’s recognised that Carbon had employed his usual ‘wake-up’ technique on Angela’s toe.

“Ow! You little monster! Ollie, can’t you control your cat?” Angela protested. “He’s just scratched my toe and bitten it.”

“I think he’s jealous sis. Normally it’s his prerogative to sleep with me.”

“Well if he’s going to continue, he’ll have to learn to share.”

The cat debate soon quietened down and Bab’s heard Lola give a squeal of delight.

“What’s up darling?” Bab’s called from her bed.

“I’ve had an email from the clinic!”

“Good news from the sound of it.”

“They’ve given me a date for my surgery!”

With that, Lola knocked excitedly on Babs’s bedroom door.

“Come in girl, let’s see.”

Lola burst in with her lap-top in hand, closely pursued by Olivia. Angela was a bit more circumspect about bursting into Babs’s bedroom for she felt she had not achieved that privileged status yet and she hesitated uncertainly.

“See. July next year, after my first year exams, that’ll give me until September to recover.”

“You have to wait another year!” Bab’s observed whilst being slightly disappointed for the girl. “I’d have thought you’ve waited long enough.”

“I’m only happy that they’ve agreed to do it during the summer hol’s. At least I won’t miss a year at Uni.”

“Well, that’s true darling.” With that Bab’s sensed Angela’s reticence to enter. “Come in girl! Don’t be standing out there on ceremony; don’t be shy!”

Angela entered and joined Olivia squatting at the end of Babs’s bed while Lola was sitting beside her as they studied the email.

“So this is the hormone regime they want you to follow is it?”

“Yes. The sperm bank is happy with the sperm samples I’ve deposited so everything is go, go, go.”

Olivia scrambled up the bed to hug Lola so Angela followed suit and they ended up in a group hug. Then they heard the front door being opened as Bridie called up the stairs.

“Come on you lot. It’s ten o’clock!”

“Why? We’ve got nothing arranged for today.” Bab’s called back. “We’re having a chin-wag up here.”

“What about?” Bridie asked as she started making the tea.

“Lola’s got her surgery dates.”

“Good news is it?”

“We-ell, sort of. She’s got to wait about ten months but it means she’ll not miss any uni. It’s booked for the summer hol’s. So why so much fuss about us being abed at ten o’clock?”

“I was going to offer the girls another trip into Cheltenham. I’ve got another meeting at GCHQ. Apparently there’s some high ranking politicians tangled up in this business.”

“Oooh! Where – what countries?”

“All over. That’s what I’m going to find out. More files, more faces. I’ll be bringing back some homework tonight and hopefully run it past those two. - - - - oh, and something else, I’ll have a better idea about the criminal compensation figures tomorrow. Brian will be doing a stint down here tomorrow while I’m up in Birmingham seeing the compensation board.”

The girls appeared in the kitchen before Bridie had even finished making the breakfast tea because the mention of Cheltenham meant a day out and a new experience for Angela. Eleven thirty found the three girls and Bridie in Cheltenham where Bridie set them down with arrangements to meet at four.

When Bridie arrived at GCHQ in Cheltenham she soon learned of the extent of the trafficking and the many threads that tied into various drug trading routes. In one instance she even detected a definite link to the case affecting either Angela or Olivia or even both. She was tempted to phone them but decided to stick rigidly to the rules for their safe house and avoid any reference to drugs, or trafficking. It would all have to wait until they met again later that afternoon. As she was taken deeper and deeper into the case she became more angry and sickened by the revelations, particularly the many suspected connections to high ranking politicians especially in Asia and South America.

Meanwhile the three girls had started the day inevitably shopping but being as funds were short, they could purchase very little.
Inevitably, their wanders about the shops whilst just looking and not buying attracted the attentions of various security staff and store detectives. Angela and Olivia being black did not help matters as inevitably a suspicious (and probably racist,) security guard in one of the stores deemed them to be shop-lifting.

They were stopped as they were leaving the store and asked to return to the security office.

“What for?” Demanded Angela.

“We have reason to believe you might have stolen goods upon you.”

“We haven’t stolen nothin’!” Olivia protested. “We were just lookin’. Bloody hell! We ‘aven’t even got bags to hide stuff!”

“Would you turn out your pockets please?”

“Bugger off! We aven’t even got pockets, they’re leggings! Look, loose tops, my ‘bum-bag’ an’ leggings. Where would we hide stuff?”

Olivia stood resolutely uncooperative while Angela raised her arms to show no hiding places.

Now Lola pitched in and the security guard turned on her.

“This is nothing to do with you young lady. It’s these two we wish to check.”

“Check what. She’s just shown you there’s nowhere to hide anything; and it has everything to do with me because I’m with them.”

“Well you turn out your handbag then.”

“If you want me to turn out my bag, you’d better call the police. I’m doing nothing for you! You only picked on my friends cos they’re black!”

“Do any of you have ID?”

“No! We don’t. We don’t carry any – and anyway, we don’t have to carry any! If you want our ID’s you will need to call the police.”

(Lola was thinking about the address of the safe house and their identities being compromised.)

The security guard was now getting annoyed because the two black girls were now following the older white girl’s example and refusing to give their names. What intrigued her though was their demands that she and the store manager contact the police.

They contacted Cheltenham central police despite Lola asking them to contact Gloucester Police headquarters or even better, Birmingham police. Eventually after nearly an hour’s argument and delay, (and an hour of the girls being detained at the store before the local Cheltenham police turned up) the police finally had the nouse to do as Lola begged them to and the two police officers called Birmingham police.

On calling Birmingham central police headquarters, the investigating office was given a number to ring by the Birmingham police and she started to dial the number. As she dialled she looked up at the girls and frowned.

“Now apparently, we’ll get some answers.”

The phone answered.

“Hello. GCHQ.”

The phone was on speaker and the woman police officer suddenly paled with shock. She almost dropped the phone.

“Hello. Who is this?”

“Station officer Carter, who am I talking to?”

“Is that really GCHQ?”

“Yes. Who are you and whom do you wish to speak to?”

“I eehh. I. – This is police constable Dawn Sutcliff here; I’ve got three young ladies suspected of shop lifting. They are refusing to identify themselves.”

“Then I suggest you speak to the police madam.”

The police officer let out a snort of frustrated anger.

“I am the police sir. I’ve been instructed by a superior officer in Birmingham to contact GCHQ.”

“Very well officer. Who is it you want to speak to and do you have their extension number.”

The officer let out an exasperated curse then turned to Lola.

“Do you know who I should ask for?”

Lola smirked as she savoured the officer’s discomfort then she relented.

“Well first, take the phone off speaker-phone then I’ll explain.”

The officer angrily adjusted her phone then Lola asked to speak to Station officer Carter. She reluctantly handed her phone to Lola who spoke softly to the Station Officer.

“Hello, Mr Carter. My name is ‘Child Ex’ and could you please contact Sergeant Bridie Davis. She’s currently working with the rape-gang and kidnap investigation team. Her mobile number is - hold on I’ll text it to you.”

There were a few minutes of tense silence then Bridie came to the police officer’s phone.
“Hello; Sergeant Bridie Davis here, is Child ‘Ex’ there?”

“Yes she’s alongside me.”

“May I speak to her please?”

Once again the lady police-officer Sutcliff handed her phone to Lola. Without any formalities Bridie asked directly. –

“Hello Darling, what’s wrong?”

“We’re being accused of shop-lifting.”

“Have you revealed your identities?”

“No. You said not to, under any circumstances! Nor have we surrendered our phones.

“Thank God for that; now, chapter and verse, no names, no pack-drill!”

Lola explained at length what had happened then handed the phone back to the police-woman. Bridie wasted no time in explaining that they could not talk on an open phone but she would come to Cheltenham Police station at sixteen thirty and under no circumstances were the girls to be questioned, interrogated or processed through the police records. Furthermore, she would be accompanied by a senior representative from GCHQ and there would have to be unquestionable, prim-facia evidence of any wrong-doing. Also, any video footage of any activity was to be taken directly to the Cheltenham Police station and there kept safe until Bridie, the GCHQ staff and a police officer of no less than superintendent rank be present when it was being viewed. Furthermore, Inspector John and a Birmingham superintendent were on their way from Birmingham.

To say there was a shocked silence from the store security staff would have been more than an understatement. They were simply stunned at the police response. The fact that the secrity guard and the store manager were residents of Cheltenham meant they were fully cognisant of the status of the work handled at GCHQ.

Work of national importance, no less.

ooo000ooo

Severe heroine addiction. She's thirteen years old.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 17

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.

Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.

Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -

Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.

They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.

Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.

Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.

Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.

Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.

Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)

Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).

Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes

Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.

Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.

Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)

Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.

Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.

Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.

Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 17.

When the three girls arrived at the Cheltenham Police HQ with Police-woman Sutcliff, they were hustled into a secure interview suite and offered cups of tea. This action alone drove home to the store manager and security guard that something extraordinary was afoot. By now it was just past four o’clock and they knew they did not have long to wait. As it happened, Inspector John and the Birmingham superintendent actually arrived slightly before Bridie and the video evidence was already prepared for police viewing by the time Bridie arrived.

After two viewings, the superintendent stood up and shook his head with some disgust.

“Well from what I’ve seen, the girls are completely innocent. Were there any other cameras?”

The security guard wagged his head with embarrassment.

“Uuhm, no.”

“Well do you agree there’s no case to answer?”

The store manager looked up red-faced and nodded affirmation.

“Good. Now I think these ladies are owed an apology, don’t you?”

Both the guard and the manager apologised somewhat reluctantly.

“Good!” The superintendent responded. “Might I suggest gentlemen that you keep your prejudices on a tighter leash in future.”

With the affair cleared up from the bureaucratic aspect and an apology literally wrung out of the store staff, Olivia and Angela were sufficiently mollified to return back to the Canal cottage with Bridie. Inspector John and the Birmingham Police superintendent shared a meal with the girls and Sergeant Bridie before she and the three girls returned to the cottage while the two senior officers returned to Birmingham. As they drove back up the M5 to Birmingham the superintendent spoke about the girls.

“They don’t seem like bad kids. Considering the two black kids have been in care in London you’d think they’d have been a lot more sassy!”

Inspector John nodded and smiled.

“I think you can put that down to my Sergeant Bridie and the old lady Bab’s, who’s housing them for Bristol Social services. She’s in her seventies but she’s a sprightly old lady and Lola and Olivia absolutely adore her. I’m pretty sure the new girl Angela will grow to like her as well. You saw how the three kids gel.”

“Yes. It’s a good job the kids got to see and experience justice being done. That makes me feel good.”

“Amen to that.” Inspector John agreed as they sped north.” It makes the kids feel good as well. Makes them feel that they matter and that somebody cares. I’m glad my sergeant reacted so quickly and positively.”

“Promotion material I’m thinking.” The superintendent finished.
ooo000ooo

Back at the cottage, the three girls were full of themselves as they related the day’s events to Bab’s and Sergeant Brian, Bridie’s brother.

“And you should have seen the police-woman’s face when GCHQ answered the phone. Priceless!” Angela squealed.

“She was only doing her job Angie. It’s never easy for a police-woman when she’s going into any situation cold.” Bridie cautioned. “Would you like to face an angry man, possibly a violent man when your alone on the streets?”

Angela’s mirth evaporated instantly as she recalled the abuse she had experience but a couple of months earlier.

“Well – no. See what you mean.”

“And I’m sure she certainly wasn’t as abusive as that security guard, was she?”

“Well, no actually -.”

“And when she showed up at the store, were you pleased to see her or frightened?”

Angela fell silent for in truth she’d actually felt relief when officer Sutcliff had appeared in the store. It felt good to be ‘legal’ after a lifetime of being at odds with the law if not actually outside it. She found it difficult to admit to her feelings but her thoughtful silence persuaded Bridie to let it rest there and not embarrass the girl further. Instead she turned to Bab’s to relate the day’s events in full and more importantly consider any security issues that might somehow spin off from the situation.

More importantly, the three girls sat attentively around the table and became active in the discussion. They were further intrigued to see Brian making notes of the points discussed and raised. Bridie was pleased to note the girls’ responses and concluded they were beginning to take things seriously. The afternoon had been something of a wake-up call even though there had been no seemingly dangerous consequences emerging.

ooo000ooo

The following weekend found them back at Birmingham hospital to meet with the rescued girl Erica for the first time since they met her briefly on arrival back in the UK. To the girls there seemed to be little improvement in Erica’s mental condition though her physical appearance had improved slightly and the three girls were thankful for that. Sadly, Erica was not yet fit enough to go on any trips or shopping excursions and the girls were therefore compelled to simply sit with her and chat sympathetically.

This was the first time Olivia and Lola had seen a fully-fledged addiction, for when they had met Angela, she had been several months along the road to recovery. Erica’s circumstances were entirely different and her mental deterioration left Olivia and Lola quite distressed. Even Angela (who had actually been there,) was disturbed by Erica’s lack of any coherent communication.

The long silences as the three girls struggled desperately to inject conversation into the meeting, was proving to be emotionally exhausting and eventually the ward sister felt compelled call a halt.

Tactfully she ascribed the impasse to Erica’s depression but in truth she could see that Olivia was becoming severely distressed for she had no yardstick to compare Erica’s catatonia. She gently curtailed the meeting by introducing tea and cake and giving the girls some diversion to circumvent their embarrassment. Finally, she used the excuse that Erica was scheduled for her next dose of methadone to be followed by rest and sleep. The girls were loath to admit that they were secretly relieved to curtail the visit.

Fortunately for the girls, Erica was so ‘out-of-it’ that she made no signs of distress or unhappiness when the nurse wheeled her away. It was as though she didn’t even know the girls had visited.

Lola, being older and less personally affected by the addiction issues, approached the sister in her private side office while Olivia and Angela were eating the cake.

“Is Erica in a worse state than Angela was?”

The sister nodded sombrely. “Yes. What tests we have managed to conduct, show that her blood condition is much more severely affected and we think she might have aids. At least her immune system would seem to indicate aids. We are waiting for the return of the test results, probably Monday but I’m not hopeful.”

Lola felt a cold lump settle in her breast and she felt she never should have asked. What was worse was that she dare not tell Olivia or Angie for there was no knowing how they would take it, if it was true. There was also the patient confidentiality angle. Technically the first affected person to learn of the illness should normally be the patient but Erica was a minor who currently had no official next of kin. Her previous carer had been the London borough social services but that was suspended because she was in the care of the police and the crown as a vital witness. Until a new court care order was awarded to some authority, or individual adult carer, Eric’s life was in a legal limbo. Lola sighed wearily for it seemed poor Erica faced a desperately destructive existence.

The hardest part was returning to Olivia and Angela whilst keeping up appearances. Fortunately she found a diversionary tactic even as she entered their room.

“Bloody hell! Have eaten all that cake already?”

The pair looked up guiltily.

“We were hungry.” Angela confessed.

“You greedy bitches! Not even a single slice!”

Lola held up the empty plate and returned to the sister’s office where she had seen a packet of chocolate digestive biscuits.

“Hi sister. It’s me again. That pair have guzzled all the cake!”

The sister wagged her head and smiled for she knew what young appetites were like. She motioned her head towards her own packet and offered, “Take some of mine, then when you come next time bring a packet.”

“Thanks. I’ll get my own back on that pair but not just yet.”

Just then Lola’s phone rang and the ward sister tensed slightly.

“Good news I hope?”

Lola held up a nervous hand as she answered.

“Hi Bridie, what’s up?”

“Is your phone on silent?”

“It is now.

“Good. How are your boat handling skills girl?”

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing girl. Just a bit of good news for you.”

“Oh. Go on.”

“The ‘you-know-what’ is ready and she needs a skipper.”

“Aah! I’m up for it. When?”

“ASAP.”

“What. Tonight or tomorrow?”

“Tomorrow’s best but you can join her tonight.”

“If I have to, what about the deadly duo?”

“Most certainly. Olivia’s skills will be welcome and it’ll be a good bit of training for Angie.”

“Will you be with us?” Lola asked.

“Of course. No reflection on your abilities but you are aware of the circumstances.”

“So, what are the arrangements.”

“I’ll text you at noon.”

Lola closed her phone and made her excuses to the ward sister.

“Places to go, things to do. Thanks for the biccies.”

“Take care young lady. You and Olivia have been an inspiration to this unit.”

Lola returned to the lounge and motioned to the girls with her thumb.

“Come on, Bridie wants us.”

“What for?” Olivia asked.

“Can’t say, come on. Into the interview room. We’ve got stuff to do.”

In the interview room, they donned their burkahs and hijabs then made their way to where Bridie usually collected them with the disguised van.

“I wonder what we’ll be this time.” Olivia giggled. Plumbers, cleaners, florists, pharmaceutical delivery girls. What do you reckon Angie?”

Angela shrugged absently; she was pre-occupied with her thoughts about Erica. They only waited a few minutes before Bridie turned up in the florists van and the girls quickly sequestered themselves in the back. Two hours later they were in Gloucester docks. When they pulled up beside the boat Bridie explained.

“Well girls, there she is; all stored and ready to go. All you need to do is take her down to the little berth behind the cottage. And tie her up. Bab’s and Brian will be waiting for you.”

“Aren’t you coming with us?”

“Yes, but I’m leaving it to you to do all the navigation and steering. I’ll help with the cooking if you want.”

“We’ll need work clothes, you know, Jean’s trainers and waterproof jackets.”

“We’ll be doing that after we’ve got the stores on-board. They’re in those boxes in the van. Come on, all hands.”

To Olivia and Lola, storing ship had become mundane but Angie was quite excited. She had never sailed in a narrow-boat before. Firstly, Bridie showed Angela the arrangements then the completed loading the stores. Finally, as night was falling, they went to a ‘late-night’ superstore and sorted out the work clothes. By eleven the four of them were cosily ensconced in the warm comfortable cabin and by midnight they were all abed. The following morning, Lola guided the narrow boat out of Gloucester docks and down the ship canal. Each girl familiarised herself with the boat’s handling characteristics by taking turns on the tiller while Bridie prepared lunch.

“The refuge room is like a fortress!” Olivia declared as she returned to the steering platform after inspecting the thick steel internal plating.”

Lola nodded and grinned.

“They’d need a shell to brake those steel plates down. Makes the boat sit a bit lower than usual though.”

“Not so’s you’d notice, except to take more care on some of the narrower, shallower canals. The ship canal is plenty deep enough though. Where’s Angie.

“Helping Bridie make lunch.”

“Huh! Helping Bridie eat it more like. She eats like a horse.”

“Well I don’t know where she puts it then, cos’ she’s as skinny as a lathe.” Lola finished.

“We’ll moor up by that tree to eat lunch and we’ll be down by the cottage at about threeish.”

With the change of engine tone, Angie emerged nibbling a sandwich ready to jump ashore and hammer in the mooring spikes.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 18

Severe heroin addiction. She started experimenting at eleven years of age. Her story is on the website below

https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/8890217/woman-who-began-inject...

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 18.

With the narrow-boat securely moored, Bridie and the girls settled down to enjoy their lunch, Angie in particular was savouring the experience of eating while studying the view across the River Severn to the ‘Forest of Dean’ on the north bank.

“You couldn’t get a better place than this. Just look at that view.”

“I think the view from our bedroom window at the cottage is better.” Olivia replied.

“Can’t say as I’ve ever noticed,” Angie squawked hilariously as she comprehended Olivia’s implication.

Bridie wagged her head with amusement as Lola smirked knowingly and added.

“Yeah! That figures, - randy bitches.”
The three girls fell to giggling helplessly as Bridie protested.

“Tee Em I! Girls; Tee Em I.”

They quietened down as Lola continued smirking while Oliva and Angela squeezed each other around the waists. Then Bridie’s phone rang. When she realised it was Inspector John she gave the girls ‘the eye’ and put her phone on speaker.

“Where are you now sergeant?”

“Tied up, having lunch a couple of miles above the junction.”

“Aah good! Best if you stay there for a couple of hours. The bods at GCHQ think they might have discovered some issues surrounding the rape gangs. It may not affect our part in the case, that is the girls safety; but until were more certain, perhaps it’s best if you stay away from the cottage.”

“Okay inspector. Have you any idea’s as to time. Hours, days, weeks even?”

“No, nothing as yet. I’m thinking hours at this juncture but time will tell. How are you for supplies?”

“We’ve got a few days at best, can’t be more specific than that cos’ we’ve no idea what rate it’ll be consumed. By the way, can we use our mobiles, I need to warn Babs and Brian. They’re expecting us at the cottage in a couple of hours.”

“Okay. Yes, for now your phones are okay. GCHQ are monitoring your phones anyway. I’ll keep in touch. Bye for now and stay safe.”

As Bridie shut her phone off, there was a prolonged silence before Lola broke the spell.

“Shit! How would anybody have found out?”

“Don’t jump the gun darling,” Bridie cautioned them. “This might be nothing more than a storm in a teacup.

“But how did the gangs find out?” Angela whimpered nervously.

Bridie confessed she was as ignorant as each of the girls.

“Well you heard the inspector. You know as much as me.”

“But our phones are definitely safe,” Olivia sought reassurance.

“Seemingly, though the thought of GCHQ monitoring our chats doesn’t appeal to me.” Bridie replied. “Who do you guys chat to?”

“Since the safe house thing; not many, just a couple of my friends at school.” Lola explained.

“Me too.” Olivia added. I mostly use it for face book and twitter.”

“Well I think you’d best curtail that stuff. Nobody knows who’s out there. Stick to just friends in future.”

Olivia was, like most young girls, addicted to chat sites but now she felt vulnerable.

“You bet.” She conceded and meant it.

“What about you Angie?”

“Same as Olivia. I’m not goin’ on those anymore.”

“So, what do we do for the next couple of hours?” Bridie wondered aloud.

Olivia and Angela glanced sideways at each other and smirked knowingly. Bridie caught the interplay and wagged her head in resignation.

“You horny pair of ferrets! Can’t you leave it alone for a couple of hours? I heard you at it all last night!”

“Can you think of anything better to do, stuck in the middle of nowhere without even our phones to entertain us!”

Bridie had no answer, she had not even brought any books to read, or paperwork to keep her busy. She turned to Lola as though seeking inspiration.

“And you?”

Lola shrugged.

“Well there’s no books, we can’t use our mobiles for anything but the most basic communication and we haven’t even got any board games, you know scrabble and such-like. I might as well go for a walk. You know, get to know the area better, check for anything suspicious or untoward. I’ll take my phone if personal calls are okay.”

Bridie couldn’t fault Lola’s logic so she allowed Lola’s choice.

“Take a coat, it looks like rain. I’ll stay here. As for you two horny ferrets. Try not to make a noise!!”

Olivia and Angela needed no further encouragement and disappeared into their bedroom while Lola got kitted out for a walk. Bridie decided to check out every detail of the boat and to her delight found a portable television in a locker under Lola’s bunk. She was idly watching some wildlife documentaries when Lola returned after a couple of hours. After rinsing the mud off her wellies, she clumped aboard to find Bridie just getting off the settee to start dinner..

“Are those two still at it?” Lola smirked.

“That or sleeping,” Bridie confirmed. “At least they were quiet.”

“I should find myself a partner, trouble is who would I choose.” Lola sighed.

Bridie put an arm around Lola’s shoulder.

“You’ll find someone someday.”

“Yeah, someday.”

“Did you learn anything interesting on your walk?”

“No. It’s flat and muddy and the ducks are noisy.”

“Same-old, same-old;” Bridie commiserated.

“Where d’ you find the telly?” Lola asked.

“Under your bunk.”

“Bugger me, and I never knew.”

“Nor looked,” Bridie grinned. “Watch it if you like or chat with me in the galley.”

To Bridie’s mild surprise, Lola chose chatting in the galley and they finished preparing the meal. At six o’clock, Bridie finally got the all clear and a long explanation from Inspector John. They disturbed the ‘love-birds’, ate their food and arrived at the lock-keeper’s cottage after dark. Olivia and Angela were tasked with reversing the boat into the narrow berth behind the cottage.

When they had finished ‘backing and filling’ to turn in the ‘winding hole and reverse into the narrow mooring bay, both Olivia and Angela felt they were becoming quite the little navigators. Once they were happy with the moorings they appeared hungry and hopeful in the cottage. Bab’s smiled indulgently and motioned to the table.

“Sit and eat girls. Lola, Bridie and Brian will be back from the caravan in a minute.”

It wasn’t long before they were all seated together and discussing the security issues.

“We’ve just been on the secure connection to GCHQ.” Brian explained. “It seems some powerful political figures in Mexico and the gulf states are seriously implicated.”

“Huh, from what I’ve heard, they can legally fuck little girls at aged nine in the bloody Arab countries anyway.” Lola cursed. “Why would they need rape gangs?”

“Ah, it’s more a case of political enmities, blackmail and slave-trading. If one politician discovers that another is into kids, they can still use it to block them from holding political office even in Islamic countries. The rapists would have trouble being accepted as bona fida representatives in western countries. They may not have broken the laws in their own countries but western countries are becoming more discerning about who they let in.” Brian continued. “More importantly, some of these vermin have actually raped children in western countries. GCHQ have got clear evidence that this has happened in our country and apparently, Erica was a witness to some of this stuff. That’s why her life is in greater danger even than yours Angie.”

“Fucking bastards!!” Angela cursed; and nobody censured her for her choice of words.

“So they know that Erica’s been rescued.” Lola observed.

“Yes, and worse still, they know she’s being treated at Birmingham hospital.” Brian elaborated.

“So they’ll have to move her to somewhere safer.” Bab’s injected.

“Not until she’s a lot further along the recovery road.” Brian answered. “She still needs intensive specialist treatment so we’re having to put an armed guard in the clinic to protect her until it’s okay to move her.”

“Will we be able to visit her?” Olivia pressed.

Brian nodded but tempered his reply.

“Ye-ess but there’ll have to be even more stringent security. The Mexican drug barons are almost a law unto themselves and they’ve got plenty of ‘gofors’ who would be prepared to kill to protect their drug-baron bosses. They’ve even got political connections.”

“What, even here; in our country?” Olivia asked.

“Mostly over there but there are a few suspicious threads that GCHQ are pursuing.

“Shit!” Lola cursed. “I’ll be bloody glad when this business is finished, if it ever is.”

“We’re making headway,” Brian encouraged the girls. “You’d be surprised how much is picked up by GCHQ and the CIA.”

“When I think of Erica and Angie, I want to shoot the bastards out of hand.” Olivia almost snarled.

The conversation swayed back and forth across the table until tiredness overtook several of them and eventually they drifted off to their various bedrooms.

ooo000ooo

For the remainder of that summer the lives at lock cottage fell into a fairly regular routine as Olivia and Angela prepared to return to school while Lola anticipated her first year at university. Bridie and Brian shared the guard duties at the cottage and moved from the caravan to the narrow boat.

The day came when Olivia returned to school with Angela and they met the bus at the top of the lane. Being as they were the first to board, they chose the front seats and as the bus embarked more children on passage, Olivia got to introduce Angela to the other children.

At the school Olivia fell into her regular classes but Angela had to face an academic assessment before she could be placed. Initially, because there were very few school records, Angela had to face an academic assessment and because of her missed years of schooling she was placed in the remedial class. When she returned home after the first day she was surprised when Bab’s asked how she had fared. Nobody had ever asked before.

“School’s awful. They’ve put me with the dummies and the troublemakers.” Angela cried. “I thought I’d be placed with Olivia.”

Bab’s nodded thoughtfully as Lola listened in for she had another month before going up to Cambridge.

“If you need help with maths and science, I can help you before I go to col’.”

“How will that help. I’m years behind.”

“I’ll be helping you as well kid.” Bab’s encouraged her. “You’d be surprised how much help there is in our community. I’m sure Aaron and Shirley might occasionally help as well. Besides, they owe me a few favours.”

“What sort of favours?” Angela pushed.

Olivia let out a snort of bemusement before suggesting.

“Go and ask Shirley at the weekend. She’ll give it to you chapter and verse. Now, what say you we help Bab’s with dinner then get stuck into the homework?”

“Crickey, you were never like this at the kid’s home.” Angela replied.

“Yeah, well things are different down here. I can do my own thing.”
Angela fell silent as they finished laying up the table and Bridie appeared in the doorway.

“News from the hospital about Erica.”

“Go on,” Bab’s pressed.

“She’s weaned off the bad stuff and now responding to treatment. They think she will be fit to face questions this weekend. D’ you want to be there?”

“Is it safe for them?” Bab’s asked, mindful of the armed guard scenario.

“As safe as we can make it. Are you girls prepared to go and see her, you know, moral support and everything?”

Olivia and Angela exchanged glances then turned to Lola seeking mutual support.

“Your call.” Lola responded. “You’re the ones at risk. I’m up for it.”

“Well we can discuss it around the table.” Bab’s declared as she brought the food from the kitchen.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 19

Severe heroin addiction. She started experimenting at eleven years of age. Her story is on the website below
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/8890217/woman-who-began-inject...

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 19.

To avoid creating any identifiable patterns of behaviour and possibly enabling any rape-gang members to determine any potential kidnap or ambush opportunities, Bridie and the girls staggered their visiting plans. They avoided visiting Erica for fully two weeks but they did send snail-mail letters from various locations periodically to reassure her that they had not forgotten her. This plan also enabled the girls to more easily recognise any improvements in Erica.

During their first visit since restarting school, they clearly noticed the increase in security surrounding Erica’s hospital bed. There was an armed guard at the door outside her private ward and two armed guards patrolling the immediate building. On noticing these developments Lola, Olivia and Angela asked for a full and frank appraisal by Inspector John about the heightened concerns.

“You asked for it girls, so here it is. The two main dangers are that two high-ranking members of the Saudi Royal family were involved with Erica’s Rape on two occasions; that's why the Iranians were so keen to return Erica to our investigation. The Iranians will do anything to discredit the Saudi's!

Also a member of the Mexican government who has got ties to the Mexican drug gangs is deeply involved.
They have been secretly identified and are being watched by several security organisations belonging to several different European and trans-Atlantic governments. At the present rate of information gathering, we and our foreign colleagues will have sufficient evidence to nail these animals. I sincerely hope that by next summer, these vermin will be behind bars.

“I’d love to catch the bloody vermin who gave Erica AIDS!” Olivia cursed.

Inspector John wagged his head.

“She hasn’t got Aids yet Olivia. She’s just HIV positive. With every passing week, we have hopes of new drugs to defeat HIV. As long as Erica does not develop AIDS, we live in hope.”

“Yeah. Well I’d still love to kill the bastard who infected her.”

“We live in hope girls, -of curing HIV that is-. We’re already on the road to capturing these bastards. Another year of diligence should open the floodgates of justice and drown these rats.” Bridie added.

It was during the third visit that Olivia and Angela were eventually to officially learn that sadly, Erica was indeed HIV positive. At first the girls were devastated but the medical team were able to reassure them that with advances in medicine and modern drugs, Erica would be able to lead a reasonably normal life. The down-side being that she would have to take medicines continually for the rest of her life unless or until, a proper, permanent cure was eventually developed.

It was after the girls third visit since starting school again and just before Lola started up at Cambridge that the medical team finally concluded that Erica was fit to be questioned. This time they did not sit Erica before a raft of inquisitors but instead, they ensconced her on a settee between her friends Olivia and Angela while a trio of experienced investigators sat in arm-chairs around a large low coffee table. To emphasise the casual, friendly circumstance, Lola and Bridie pottered about making tea and serving food.

The idea was to make the interview as much like a casual friendly house-party as possible while in another room, invisible to Erica, a veritable crowd of investigators listened in then presented their questions via Inspector John who along with one of the clinic psychiatrist and the ward sister, made up the socialising trio. These three had won Erica's trust again.

The questions were however quite open yet sometimes distressing for Erica as facts, circumstances and painful events were revisited.
Several times, Erica broke down in tears and it took all of Olivia’s resolve to hug her tight in desperate endeavours to reassure her. For Angela, her part was doubly difficult for she had personal experience of so many similar yet brutally painful events. However, she struggled manfully to support her friend Erica while simultaneously trying to hide her distress.

Towards the end, all the girls were aghast at some of the names revealed as definite perpetrators of known atrocities but, despite the shocks, it mainly served to cast a firm resolve to see the case through.

With the revelations of the interview made known to Lola, Olivia and Angela, it reinforced their caution and it also served to boost the police protection shield to two officers personally protecting Erica at the clinic plus two armed patrols discreetly operating around the clinic environs. Additionally, a second police officer was added to the team guarding the canal cottage.

The extra officer was quietly checking the area on his first watch at exactly the time Olivia and Angela were coming home from school and for some minutes it terrified the girls until Bab’s laughingly reassured them. The officer was introduced to them in the cottage and a wave of relief washed over the girls.

“We thought you were a gang-member sizing up the joint.”

“What, while wearing a water authority jacket with the company motif?” The officer grinned.

“Exactly because you were wearing the jacket!" The pair chorused. "Bridie and Brian only wear theirs if they are supposedly doing some official work like replacing or readjusting the fish counters or current meters. There’s such a thing as overkill.”

“Okay. In future I’ll tone it down a bit. But I have to wear a bulky coat for other reasons. Fortunately the colder weather justifies a larger, heavier coat.”

There was a silent, meaningful pause before Angela whispered incredulously.

“Are you armed? Under that coat I mean!"

He nodded while shrugging apologetically to hide his embarrassment.

“F’raid so. This case is getting messy.”

“So it’s going to be a twenty-four hour guard.” Angela continued.

“Until we’re more certain of the risk level, yes.” The officer confirmed.

“Will all the officers be armed?” Olivia asked.

“Yes, so please; mum’s the word.”

“Oh you can bet your bottom dollar,” Olivia affirmed. “This whole thing is turning to rat-shit.”

“Will you be staying on the boat or in the caravan?” Angie asked.

“We’re moving to the boat, it's nearer to the cottage. That’ll be our base, while Bridie and Brian continue at the caravan.

“What about when we’re travelling to school and stuff?” Olivia wondered.

“If necessary, we will be driving the bus. It’s the best disguise we can come up with.”

“And in school?” Angie pressed.

“If the risk escalates to that level, we take you out of school and you move away from here altogether. Your evidence is too valuable and there are some high profile people already on remand.”

Both girls sighed despondently and looked at Bab’s with disappointment writ large across their faces. The older lady did her best to calm their fears.

“I don’t think it’ll come to that girls, so far nobody has come near the cottage. Well, nobody that I don’t know. Keep your chins up girls. Now get on and do your homework. Oh, and by the way, Angie, I received a letter this morning after you left for school, they’re moving you up out of the numpty class, so well done my girl!”

Angie frowned suspiciously as Olivia took the hint and retired to the living-room while Bab’s and Angela talked.

“I don’t get it." Angela observed. "It’s only been a few weeks and I haven’t even sat any exams yet.”

“You’ve done tests though I believe. You know after the end of lessons and stuff.”

“Well – yeah. But they were just; you know mostly maths stuff. Ten simple problems at the end of each chapter. I’ve only written two short essays for English and some comprehension tests; plus all the stuff about verbs and nouns and adjectives and stuff.”

“What about science?”

“What about it?”

“Well what have you done so far?”

“Mostly biology. They won’t let the stupid kids near the laboratories nor the badly behaved kids so I don’t get to do chemistry or much physics. Any way most of the time, our teacher spends just keeping control. That’s why they have two classroom assistants.”

“Well apparently, you’ve done enough to convince the head of year that you’re worth a chance. Here, read the letter.”

Angela took the letter and read it before letting out a little gasp.

“Fuck me! She actually says something nice!”

“Who?”

“The numpty class mistress. Most of the time she just shouts at the class, mind you they are a bloody noisy, stupid bunch. She’s hardly spoken to me except to hand back my work and let me get on with it.”

“Exactly!” Bab’s replied. “You’re ‘getting on with it’ and that’s the crux of the matter. Well she’s obviously seen something worth saving in you and she’s recommended you to the head of year. Well done darling, keep it up.”
Having praised Angela for her work, Bab’s turned back to the stove to continue preparing dinner. A couple of minutes later she turned around and was surprised to see Angela still sitting holding the letter. She was wiping her eyes.

“What’s wrong darling, why are you crying?”

Angela held up the tear-stained letter.

“She’s said something nice. Nobody’s ever said something nice about me. I had her down for just another – you know; another bitch, another critic! Why didn’t she say this to me in class?”

“Perhaps she couldn’t darling.” Bab’s explained as she came around the kitchen table and hugged the girl. “If she drew attention to you in class, it might attract the bullies or it might demotivate the less able kids. In that remedial class, the teacher is always walking a tight-rope.”

As she accepted the proffered paper Kitchen towel to dry her eyes, Angie fell into a thoughtful silence. Bab’s waited knowingly for the anticipated insight and it wasn’t long coming.

“Yeah. When you think of it she’s got a shit job. She’s always trying to hold the line, always having to raise her voice and a couple of days ago she had to break up a fight. It’s a good job one of the classroom assistants is a man. Yeah – I see it now; and at the same time she’s expected to teach thicko’s how to read, let alone write. That class is like a holding pen at a zoo, a cesspit!”

“Well just be thankful that she’s given you a life-line to escape. Grab it with both hands girl and hold on tight.”

After another brief silence Angie looked up.

“Shall I buy her a thankyou card or present or something?”

“Now that’s a wonderful thought darling. Have a think, what does she like?”

“I dunno’. Aah! Wait! In the fight she got her blouse torn and she seemed very upset about that. I swear I thought I saw a tear in her eye as she fingered the ripped sleeve. What if I got her a new blouse?”

“Can you remember the style, the brand?”

“Yes. Ollie says I’ve got an eye for fashion. I’m sure I’ve seen her blouse in Debenham’s in Bristol.”

“Good girl! Bristol it is then, Saturday morning. When do they move you up?”

“Tomorrow I suppose, I don’ know really, it doesn’t say.”

“I’ll tell you what. I’ll phone the school tomorrow and say you’ve got to attend a police hearing. The headmaster knows a bit about yours and Ollie’s case. Then we can pop into Bristol in the morning, and you can present the blouse to her with a box of chocolates perhaps, before you finish and move up.”

Angie’s eyes brightened and she gave Bab’s a teary hug.

“Thanks Nina, can I call you Nina now, like Ollie and Lola do?”

“I’ve been waiting for that day since you came here! Of course! I’d be honoured and delighted to have you call me Nina. Now get on and do your homework, I’ll call you when food is ready.”

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 20
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/8890217/woman-who-began-inject...

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 20

The next morning after Bab’s had phoned the school the arrangements to go shopping were completed. Olivia was pleased about Angela’s elevation from ‘the numpty class’ as all the children referred to it but she was chagrined to learn that Angela was having a morning off just so that she could buy her form mistress a present. At the breakfast table she alternately grumbled then grinned.

“Huh lucky bitch! Just cos’ she got a few maths questions right. I suppose it’ll be a world cruise if she graduates in the summer.”

“All I’m doin’ is saying thank you! Here; read this!”

Angie pushed the letter towards Olivia who had been secretly wanting to read it. After scanning the paper she nodded and grinned.

“So she’s not the wicked witch of the west then.”

“No! I had her wrong. I thought she was a dragon but it’s because she’s got a shit job.”

“Well, have a good time and I’ll see you at lunch.”

They separated after breakfast and soon Angela was in Bristol with Bab’s.

“It’s on the first floor of Debenhams.” Angela explained as they left the Galleries car-park and crossed the shopping centre.

“Slow down girl. This is your old Nina not your bouncing friend Ollie.”

Angela stopped and waited for Bab’s to catch up then they proceeded at a more leisurely pace into the store.

“Here they are.”

She held one up before checking the tag then frowned.

“Crickey! It’s more than I thought. Can you help me out please Nina? I’ll pay you back.”

“That’s what Nina’s are for.” Bab’s smiled as she nodded her head. “Is this the right size?”

Angie double checked the label and nodded.

“Yes. She’s the same size as me. Anyway, she can always exchange it if she wants provided I give her the receipt.”

Bab’s smiled to herself as she considered the thought of giving a gift with the receipt and price tag still attached. Still it was special circumstances and in truth, a very thoughtful ‘thank-you gift’. They completed the purchase then Angela bought Olivia a little bracelet to reaffirm their relationship.

“Get two of those, Bab’s offered. Then you can demonstrate your friendship.”

Angela’s face lit up and they stopped in a café for tea and coffee before Bab’s returned Angela to the school. While Angela presented her form teacher with her ‘thank-you’ present, Bab’s checked up on the new class that Angie was joining.
After conferring with the head of year about any continuing additional provisions to help Angela play ‘catch-up’. Bab’s left feeling much happier about Angela’s progress, then in the school yard she met briefly with Olivia before leaving for home.

“Steak and Kidney pudding for dinner darling, see you later.”

“Mmm! My favourite. See you later Nina.”

When the girls arrived home from school, Bab’s was pleased to see them wearing the matching bracelets.

“Which copper is on guard?” Olivia asked.

“Tony; he’s up at the Marina at the moment talking to Aaron and Shirley, they’re down for the weekend.”

The pair wolfed their food down and dashed up the tow-path to see their friends. It was all that Marmalade and Carbon could do to keep up. Rainbow, the tortoiseshell cat, as ever, remained curled up and sleeping by the cooker.

When they reached the marina, Aaron looked up and grinned.

“I see Marmalade has adopted you Angela. Hope you’re looking after him.”

Angie grinned as both girls paused expectantly before being invited aboard and soon they were chatting in the saloon They congratulated Angela about the promotion from the remedial class and then fell to chatting about the increased security arrangements until Shirley returned from the Marina shop with their three children.

“What-choo doing tomorrow Ollie?” Michael asked.

“Not sure yet. I think Bab’s has got something lined up for us.” Olivia replied to avoid revealing that they were going to Birmingham hospital.

Disappointment registered in Michael’s eyes.

“Aaah. You’re always going away on Saturdays. Can you come with us to see the birds at Slimbridge on Sunday?”

Angela chuckled.

“Don’t you get to feed enough ducks here?”

Aaron explained.

“Michael’s got a bird project for school; he’s meeting some school friends there.”

“Shall we make a day of it then?” Olivia suggested. “I could help them draw some birds.”

With arrangements made, the girls gathered the cats from Jessica and Bianca and returned with Tony the police guard back to the cottage.

Early on the Saturday morning Bridie got a message to say that the hospital was considering allowing Erica to have a day out.

“Where to?” Angela wondered.

“Well, not Birmingham city centre, that’s for sure.” Bab’s opined. “What were her interests when you were in the home?”

“There wasn’t much opportunity to indulge in ‘interests’ as you put it.” Olivia replied venomously. “It was as much as you could do just to get by. If you showed any interests they would be turned against you by the bullies. Remember my drawings? – Having to hide them in that rickety old shed.”

“Mmm.” Bab’s observed thoughtfully. “So no sports, or fashion interests, make-up, clothes.”

“We didn’t see much.” Angela added. “Well – all girls are pretty much into fashion and make-up and stuff, but I don’t remember anything that sort of stood out.”

“What about animals? I’m thinking a day at a zoo or something.”

“West Midland Safari Park might work. There’s rides and animals there.” Olivia opined.

“What d’ you think Bridie?” Bab’s asked the lady sergeant. “There shouldn’t be any security risk to the girls should there. I mean, nobody’ll know.”

“I don’t see a problem,” Bridie replied. “We use the same safety procedures with an unmarked van and things should work out.”

“Very well then, the safari park it is.” Bab’s decided. “Everybody back here in the kitchen for nine.”

The punctual way that everybody arrived ready to go at eight forty-five, demonstrated the importance that everybody attached to the trip.

ooo000ooo

At the hospital, Olivia and Angela did not even leave the van. They were certain enough now of the dangers to pay full heed to Bridie and Brian’s warnings before Bridie went to collect Erica. They were sat in the back when the warning knock sounded and the side door slid back to reveal Bridie and Erica wearing a full burkah plus hijab and niqab.

More sobering was the accompanying guard who Olivia and Angela rightly presumed to be armed. Brian knew the guard and introductions were confirmed as Bridie drove out of the catering department loading bay.

The guard explained why he was accompanying them.

“Erica is a very important witness and the Turks are holding two high-level Saudi princes under arrest for trafficking women and more importantly children as sex slaves. It was the Saudi and Iraqi gang who were trying to kidnap Erica into Saudi Arabia. They somehow got confused then ended up in Iran because they were trying to cross the border on remote dirt tracks and got lost. Talk about dumb! I wonder if they’ve ever heard of ‘sat-nav’”

It was an Iranian border patrol who picked them up and as I’m sure you’re aware, the Iranians are looking for every way possible to get back at Saudi Arabia.

After an hour’s driving and a vehicle change they reached the Safari Park and emerged inconspicuously before queuing to get in. Ordinarily, a pair of sixteen-year-old girls and a fourteen-year-old would have immediately separated from any adult supervision but sadly they were not an ordinary group of girls. Fortunately Bridie and the male police escorts were alert enough to keep slightly in the background while still watching for any untoward interest in the girls. The ruse mainly worked and for a couple of hours the girls enjoyed themselves.

It was at two pm, when they decided to queue for a big mac that a problem arose.

As Bridie and the girls stood deciding what they wanted, Bridie saw Erica go suddenly pale.

“What’s wrong darling?”

“Over there. Look; that guy with that Indian girl, he’s definitely one of the gang who I saw when they were smuggling me through Holland and Germany. He wasn’t actually with me but I saw him at least three times with another young girl at the same stop-overs. I’ll bet he’s grooming that kid. He’s only about nineteen or twenty because I heard him talking about getting married because he already had enough money and he claimed to be nineteen or twenty.

He was bragging to the man who was minding me because he thought I was out of it with drugs but at that point I was lucid.”

Bridie was on to it immediately because girl disappearances were still ongoing in the Midlands. A brief mobile phone-call produced immediate results. Even as the girls and Bridie ate their Big-mac meals and milk shakes, they saw four plainclothes officers approach the pair. The man actually panicked and tried to do a runner while the girl just stood there looking bemused and confused. She had already been drugged with Rohypnol.

Olivia and Angela just shook their heads in despair as they realised just how young the groomer was. They wanted to go outside and offer help with the girl but Bridie stopped them.

“There might be other gang members around. Leave it to my colleagues. We’ll have to keep as low a profile as possible.”

Even as she cautioned the four, two Sikh men and a woman arrived with another police officer. It was obvious that they were the girl’s parents or older relatives. As they watched the tearful scene, Bridie surreptitiously dialled her phone and one of the police officers arresting the kidnapper answered. After a few brief words to identify herself as the officer who had reported the incident, the arresting officer replied.

“Yes, they are her Mother, father and uncle. They reported her missing only this morning, we’ve been damned lucky to recover her and all importantly catch this piece of vermin.”

“Well don’t look towards MacDonald’s, or you might give things away to any watching gang members. I’ll be along to your station with my witnesses shortly. Is the girl drugged do you know, Rhohypnol or something.?”

“It very much seems like it. We’re taking her and her parents down to the station to start sorting stuff out.”

“Yes, well when we arrive, we’re under a witness protection scheme so we’ll arrive with a police escort but very low profile. Any idea why they were in the Safari Park?”

“Nothing yet. We’ll start the investigation down at the station.”

“It’ll have to be Birmingham central station. He’s part of a much bigger rape-gang and kidnapping ring. I’ll give you the superintendent’s number for Birmingham. Call him.”

Olivia had never seen Bridie being so authoritative and positive. She glanced knowingly towards Angela while Erica just glared tearfully at the scene outside the restaurant.

“Eventually, after the arrest was completed and the coast was clear, Bridie the girls and their armed escort quietly slipped away to rendezvous at Birmingham central police station.

ooo000ooo

©Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 21

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought to have been killed by the gang.

Chapter 21

At Birmingham central police station Bridie emerged first then the armed escort accompanied her and Erica to the interview suite while Olivia and Angela waited briefly in the van with Brian. After a moderate delay, there was a knock on the van and the armed escort returned to collect Ollie and Angie.

“They’re giving your friend a thorough questioning and comparing notes of ferry tickets for dates and such like. Once they get an accurate time frame they’ll be able to check CCTV and stuff at the ferry terminals at least.”
“But that was months ago,” Angela observed. Do they keep records that long?”
“I’m not allowed to say how long they keep the records girls, that’s confidential information.”

Angie fell silent but she realised if they were checking back CCTV then they must keep the records going back months.
“No wonder security is expensive if they keep stuff going back that long.” She remarked to Olivia and Brian. “They must have wall-to-wall data banks.”
“Here we are girls. Basically, they just want you to confirm today’s events – unless of course you can remember anything else.
They followed the station sergeant into the interview suit and were surprised to find themselves facing the Sikh family who were still waiting for their beloved daughter to be released to them. Because both Olivia and Angela were black, the Sikh family eyed them suspiciously but said nothing.
It irked both girls that they were not allowed to say anything or identify themselves as the party that had identified the kidnapper. Their ‘safe-house’ constraints were still an onerous burden. Eventually, Brian decided to get some tea and he made himself known to the desk sergeant Within a few minutes, he returned with a tray of tea and biscuits which both girls and coppers quickly demolished.
As Olivia poured a second cup of tea she noticed the Sikh parents eyeing their tray covetously and realised they might not have had anything since the arrest. She turned to Brian while adding.
“We may not be allowed to identify ourselves to them but surely we can get them some tea.”
“Leave it to me Ollie.” Brian replied as he repeated the tea-serving procedure.

“When he returned with a second large tray of tea and biscuits he allowed himself the luxury of a little explanation.”
“Those young ladies were a party to your daughter’s rescue but sadly they are not allowed to be identified to you. Their lives are in danger so their identities must remain secret. Your young daughter was extremely lucky that the girls identified the kidnapper. Those young ladies risked their lives by informing my colleagues. That’s all I can say.”
The Sikh mother let out a gasp of delight and stood up to rush across and thank the girls. Fortunately, Brian was alert enough to stop her and enlighten the family trio.
“As I said, their identities remain a secret so just give them a wave to acknowledge a thank-you. You cannot talk to them or take pictures of them. Once the trial is over you will be allowed to make their acquaintance.
This business with your daughter has served to both complicate things and yet improve the chances of convictions for many gang members. Just give the two young ladies a smile and they will wave back. That’s all that’s allowed today – sorry. Oh and all importantly, absolutely no photos, pictures or selfies, okay?”
Having taken in Brian’s clear warning the family gave the prescribed ‘finger-waves’ and smiled beatifically when the girls gave a smiley ‘finger-wave’ back. The father silently mouthed ‘thank-you’ and they continued exchanging smiles across the suite until all three of the family were invited to clear up some questions about their daughter’s disappearance earlier that morning.
Eventually every one of Brian’s party attended their interviews and they prepared to return Erica to The Birmingham hospital clinic. They drove home in a somewhat sober mood as Bridie explained why the interview with Erica had taken so long.
“Apparently, her seeing that vermin Abdullah, resurrected more disturbing memories and those memories contain some very useful information, identities, dates, locations and events. It all adds grist to the mill. She’s agreed to let them use pentanol to try and release any more stuff that’s might be locked up in her head.”

“Pentanol? Isn’t that the truth drug?” Olivia checked.
“Yes but they’ll be monitoring her wellbeing when they use it. There’s been enough damage to her psyche already.”
“No complications then, what with her addictions and her HIV thing.”
“None that they know of; as I said, they’ll be watching her like a hawk.”
“They’d better,” Olivia added softly but darkly.
By the time they arrived home at the cottage, everybody was ready for bed.
ooo000ooo
To Olivia’s annoyance, they slept late at the cottage so they had to forego breakfast and speed through the lanes to catch up with Aaron, Shirley and their three children.
They arrived at the wildfowl park where they finally located Aaron and his family without Michael, who had gone with his study group to witness the arrival of the migrating swans from Russia. On learning that Michael was already at the main lake, Olivia set off with her back-pack as fast as the crowds would allow and she finally spotted Michael with his school-friends arranged on the shore of the lake anticipating the event.
Fortunately the crowds had not yet intensified and Olivia managed to pick her way between the groups to finally sneak up on Aaron’s son Michael without him realising. She approached the teacher first to comply with school regs before surprising Michael. He was looking glum and staring at the sky when Olivia suddenly tapped him on the shoulder.
“Surprise, surprise!”
Michael span around and the frown suddenly changed to a ‘wrap-around’ grin as he instantly cheered up.
“I thought you weren’t coming. I thought you’d forgotten.”
“No Mickey. Never that! I would never forget you cos’ I made a promise.
We all slept late through the alarm at the cottage because we got back late last night after a gruelling day in Birmingham.”
“What do you do in Birmingham all the time?”
“I can’t tell you yet, but it’s very important. Did you bring your pencils and stuff?”
He tapped his bag by his foot as Olivia swung her back-pack off her shoulders.
“Now I’ve been told at the information office in the café that the swans are a long way off to the north-east so we’ve got plenty of time for introductions and stuff.”
The group only comprised six boys plus a teacher and after the formalities were completed, Olivia took out her little folding stool and settled alongside Mickey. At first, she said nothing but started drawing while an intrigued Michael turned and stared over her shoulder. After less than a minute’s handiwork, Michael recognised himself on the paper.
“That’s me!”
“Full marks for observation bro! That was you looking pretty glum just now.”
To emphasise the mood, Olivia darkened the background sky and the other boys started laughing.
“Can you draw me please Miss?” Another boy asked.
“Certainly but check with Mr Mathews first; and it’s Olivia not Miss. I’m Michaels friend, not a teacher.”
The group needed no further encouragement and in no time at all, what had been a dour group of cold bedraggled observers had now become an animated gaggle of excited schoolboys gathered around Olivia while Mr Mathews, their teacher looked on beaming.
Because the day was overcast, Olivia sketched every boy looking cold, miserable and bored. However the drawing conveyed the mood before Olivia’s arrival perfectly and She even managed to include the teacher chewing on a sandwich before the news went out that the swans were due within minutes.
The news caused a rush as the shore became crowded with camera-toting twitchers and the boys had to fight to hold their favoured line. Fortunately by this time, Olivia had set up her easel and this clearly marked her legitimate claim to that section of shore. Mr Mathews also stood close by to help protect their ‘first-come, first-served’ claim.

Soon there came a call from further along the beach and the first skein of swans appeared in formation as they started bugling excitedly on recognising their final destination. Inevitably the hubbub on the shore rose to a crescendo as cameras swung into action and people ‘oohed and aahed’ at the spectacle.

Olivia however, had simply taken a simple video on her mobile then quickly whisked a few formative lines on the paper. Even these simple curves had however captured the fluidity and action of the swan’s alighting, then she ignored the countless ‘follow-ons’ by other skeins as she concentrated on fleshing out her picture. It was this part that intrigued Michael and a couple of other more interested boys and it was here that Olivia showed Michael how to use the pencils to create various effects and techniques to capture the spirit of the swan’s arrivals.

By mid-afternoon, the bulk of the migration for that day was over and only a few stragglers arrived with forlorn calls as they sought their mates or attempted some premature pairings with other single swans. As the crowds thinned Olivia gave the boys one last treat and she invited them to the café to make one last drawing of their visit in the warmth of the café.

This time she drew the boys smiling and drinking various beverages while Mr Mathews was drawn distributing more burghers and chips to round off the day.

The master was so delighted with the turn of events that he invited Olivia to come to the school and meet the rest of his class on another day.

Sadly Olivia had to decline for it would not do to create too much publicity until the rape-gang case was closed.

The rest of the boys left in the school minibus with the teacher, while Michael and Olivia met up with their returning families as pre-arranged.

“Good day son?” Aaron asked his son.

“Fabulous dad. Ollie’s a brilliant artist!”

“We know that darling,” Shirley added, “who do you think painted the boat?”

“Oh! Of course! I forgot!” Michael exclaimed as they prepared to leave. “Can I travel back with Olivia?” He begged.

“Sorry Michael,” Bridie lied. “We’re off to Gloucester on police business.”

When Olivia joined Bab’s Brian, Angie and Bridie she asked what was going on.

“Nothing,” Bridie explained, “we just like to keep things simple. It’s easier to protect you together than scattered between cars and families. Sorry and all that but you know the score. Besides, the less Aaron and Shirley and their children are seen to be associated with you girls; the less complications and risks.”

“Jeeze! I’ll be glad when this bloody case is over.” Olivia sighed.

As a compensation for not being able to travel back with Michael, Bab’s treated everybody to a cream tea in a pretty little Cotswold town before returning to the cottage after dark. It was novel experience for the girls.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 22

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought originally, to have been killed by the gang,
Belinda. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 22

For the remaining two months of the Michaelmas term, life for the two girls and Aaron’s three children remained pretty ‘hum-drum’ Olivia’s artwork won many plaudits and several of the staff truly wondered why she seemed reluctant to enter her work for various arts prizes. Only the headmaster and Olivia’s art teacher were a party to her reasons and they managed to explain Olivia’s reluctance with various plausible reasons.

Angela’s academic work advanced at an astonishing rate, so much so that some of her ‘care-home’ past had to be revealed to her teachers to explain why she had come to the school with such a poor academic record. At the end of the Christmas semester she was so successful in her favoured subjects that she was promoted again to a higher class where she at last shared registration with her friend in most of the subjects. In English however, her essays and comprehension work brought her to the attention of the senior English mistress who decided that despite her somewhat ‘colloquial’ style of grammar, she was deserving of slot in the advanced class.

When Lola came down from Cambridge for the Christmas holidays, there was much cause for celebration in Canal cottage.

These celebrations were further increased when Bab’s received notification of the preliminary, interim criminal damage awards to each of the girls for the abuses they had suffered while technically in the care of their local authorities.

As they contemplated their windfalls Bab’s was doing some rough calculations.

“By my calculations, we could afford an extension to the cottage provided we take things slowly and keep within our cash flow. The sums so far awarded plus my fostering fees, plus the monies I’ve saved so far from your previous fostering fees plus the rewards you have been awarded by the courts for the information you have already supplied, there’s just about enough to complete an extension next summer. Naturally, if you girls share some of your rewards to extend the cottage, you get the house in my will when I kick off.”

“Oooh Nina! Don’t say it like that! That’s horrible.” Olivia protested.

“Horrible is as horrible does darling. I’m not getting any younger. Anyway, to more immediate issues. The police have said, hopefully this case will be over by a year next summer.”

“Are those dates accurate Nina?” Lola wondered.

“Well, that’s what the police think, except for the incident with the Sikh family and Erica. That might take a little longer unless the CPS decide to include it in the main case.”

“So by June next year we could each have a bedroom and bathroom each?” Angela grinned.

“Plus one for Erica, if you three are happy about that.”

“Couldn’t Angie and I just have one big bedroom, you know - - -?” Olivia trailed off slightly embarrassed.

Bab’s let out a snort.

“Ha! I thought that’s what you might ask. Personally I think it might be better if you each have your own bedrooms and share a larger bathroom. You can still share a double bed in one room and use the other as a dressing room.

You’re still a bit young to be thinking long term relationships. Besides, if you go to different colleges you could quite likely end up meeting somebody else. There’s way to much uncertainty in your young lives for permanent relationships to be fixed.”

“Aaaww Nina! We love each other to bits. You’re just being pessimistic!” Angela protested.

“Well call me old fashioned but let’s wait and see. Let’s see what the architect says when he does the plans.”

At this juncture, Lola dropped her bombshell.

“I think Nina’s right. There’s no knowing where relationships can lead. I never thought I would find a friend at Uni, let alone one who could become my partner but I’ve already found somebody.”

The stunned silence settled for long seconds before Olivia found her voice.

“What! You’ve got a boyfriend?!”

“Uuhhmm, no silly! I’ve got a girlfriend.!”

“What!!” Angie squealed. “Why didn’t you bring her down with you?!”

“Uuuhhmmm. Parents, would you believe. Not everybody lives the bohemian, free-style existence we enjoy.”

“You mean her parents don’t approve of you?” Olivia inquired.

“Her parents don’t even know of me just yet.” Lola replied thoughtfully. “And she isn’t at all sure how they’ll take it. Besides, I haven’t checked with Bab’s. It would be rude of me to just dump on Bab’s and you two without any warning. Plus of course this is a secret safe house, so I haven’t even told her where I live.”

“Where doe she live?” Angie asked.

Her family lives near Cirencester but her dad works in London during the week and comes home at weekends and stuff.

“Not far then,” Bab’s observed, “will you be seeing her during the hols?”

“I have to wait until she sounds out her parents before I go to hers, and of course coming here for her might cause problems. Her dad’s high up in the military. We can meet in local towns though, Stroud, Gloucester or Bristol. She’s got the use of a car. It’s a sort of third family runabout.”

“Well, now that you’ve passed your test, you can use the Land-rover if you wish. I’m seriously glad that you did pass, because it means I am not the one always called upon to be a taxi for Olivia and Angela, Just make sure you don’t attract any untoward attention, you never know who’s about and finally, I suggest you come out to her parents as soon as you both deem it okay.”

“No prob’s there Nina. I’m half expecting a phone call tomorrow morning saying, ‘make or break’.”

“Feeling tense?” Bab’s asked.

“A bit,” Lola confessed. “Now, the next thing. Are we going up to Birmingham this weekend to see Erica?”

“Well, I’ve got a lot to sort out with getting a house extension started if the reward money is forthcoming.”

Lola sniffed pessimistically.

“Huh! From what I’ve learned, any monies coming from government departments take for ever to be sorted and there’s always strings attached.”

“That’s as maybe,” Bab’s nodded agreement, “but I can only try.”

“Good on-yer Nina. Have I time to visit Aaron and Shirley before dinner?”

“Go ahead girl, I’m thinking Marmalade would like a little run.”

Lola stood up and mentioned Aaron’s name while looking pointedly at Marmalade.

For a long moment, the cat seemed reluctant to leave Angelica’s knee then to Lola’s relief, he jumped down and waited expectantly by the door.

“Still my cat then,” Lola joked as Angelica pulled out her tongue before grinning.

“Fickle cat.” She charged.

“Come with me then and he won’t have to choose between us.”

“Good advice,” Olivia agreed as she pulled her coat on and savoured the fact that Carbon showed no divisions of loyalties as he wound his body around her ankles.

That afternoon, as the girls shared their Friday on the narrow-boat with Shirley and the children, Bab’s started making phone calls. She was pleasantly surprised to learn that a substantial sum was scheduled to be paid to the girls before Christmas. Things were looking promising.

ooo000ooo

On the Saturday morning Lola received the expected phone-call from her newfound friend.

“Hi babe’s what’s the news?”

“I can’t be sure at the moment. They seem to be keeping their ammunition dry and saying very little.”

“Ah!” Lola expostulated softly, “that sound’s ominous.”

“It’s hard to tell at the moment. My dad’s always kept things close to his chest.”

“And what about your mum?”

“Exactly as you said. She wondered about children – well, grandchildren to be more precise.”

“Oh dear, same old – same old.”

“But you’ve got sperm frozen, didn’t you say?”

“Yes I have but it’s more to do with what they feel about me I would have thought.”

“I think that’s why my dad isn’t saying much. I get the feeling he wants to meet you.”

“Uuuhm, that’s a bit prem isn’t it. I’m not asking you to marry me, leastways, not yet.”

“Why not? Don’t you love me?”

“That’s not fair. I have to get a job and that means two and a half years more Uni. I’d love to marry you but, well – there’s a lot of stuff I’ve got to get through first.”

They chatted at length until Olivia interrupted.

“Come on Lola, the shops ‘ll be closed at this rate. Or we won’t get a place to park.”

Reluctantly, Lola broke off the chat.

“Sorry Bel, I’ve been appointed as chauffer so I’ve got to take my step-sisters and Nina shopping.”

“Well, I’m going into Cirencester just now to help mum and my sisters sort the Christmas shopping and food. I’ll speak to you this afternoon, okay?”

“I think that’s what we’re doing as well, - Christmas food shopping. Possibly some pressies as well. Bye darling.”

“Bye babes.”

Within the hour, Bab’s, Lola, Olivia, Angela and one police guard were approaching Stroud in the Land-rover.

“Park in the usual place is it?” Lola asked.

Bab’s offered a questioning glance to the police guard who nodded agreement and Lola cautiously navigated the LWB Land-rover into the police station yard and onto one of the parking bays normally reserved for riot vans. This put them much closer to the main shops and they were doubly thankful because it had started to rain.

The guard cleared it with the station sergeant and the family were soon shopping therapeutically.

After the essentials were gathered, there was time to choose favourite tit-bits and delicacies for each of the family and it was getting dark as they returned with arms loaded for the fourth time to add to the land-rover’s burden.

“What about a Christmas tree?” Angela squealed.

“I normally string a few lights on the tree outside the garden gate.” Bab’s replied.

“Aah. That’s not enough. Can I have a tree inside. I’ve never decorated my own tree inside a house. You know, like a real family home thing.” Angie begged.

A scan of the hopeful faces convinced Bab’s it would be a welcome move so she capitulated gracefully.

“Alright then. Take a right up here. There’s a place that grows their own. The lane’s a bit muddy but it’ll be good practice for you Lol’s – you know, four-by-four on the slippery mud.”

Lola engaged the four by four and soon they were climbing a steep muddy lane with a ditch on one side and the hedge on the other.

After choosing a tree they set about crawling carefully down the same slippery lane again, now made worse by more rain and the total darkness. As they rounded one of the ‘hair-pins’ they happened upon a car that had obviously skidded across the mud and into the ditch. The driver was stood fuming by the car and cursing into his phone.

“Wait here, I’ll check it’s not a trap,” the police guard advised.

The girls watched as the older man admitted he had been going too fast to get to the Christmas tree farm before it closed.

“- and now I’m bloody stuck here ‘til the tow-truck arrives. We’ll be all bloody night I’m afraid.”

“Just wait here sir. I’ll talk to the driver of the Land-rover. As you will see, she has a winch on the front.”

“Oh good show. That’s a stroke of luck. I was thinking of asking the farm if they had something but that winch would be perfect.”

The guard called Lola over and quickly checked out Babs’s rescue inventory.

“This is a lot of kit Bab’s why d’ you carry it?”

“Some-times the mud jams the lock-gates and we have to drag the gates back as we scour the cills with the sluices.”

“Well, it’s an ill wind. Let’s get to it.”

Within Minutes, Lola and Olivia had led the tow wire through a snatch-block attached to a strong tree while Angela and the police guard secured the land-rover chassis to another tree to stop it dragging itself forward. Soon the car was gently hauled out of the ditch.

A quick check revealed that the car was slightly dented but fully road-worthy and the driver thanked them profusely.

“Well young ladies! I’m in the army and I must say, that operation was as slick as anything they would have done.”

“If you’re quick – but careful. The farm is still open, I’ve just phoned them.” Bab’s advised the driver who gratefully offered to pay.

“I think the lane’s become too muddy and slippery with all this rain.” The driver opined. “I’ll come back tomorrow.”

“We could go and get it in this.” Lola suggested, eager to show off her newfound skills in driving what was rapidly becoming her favourite new toy. “There’s a wide part just down a bit and I can easily turn there.”

“Are you serious young lady?” The older driver asked as he looked questioningly at Bab’s and the police guard.

“If she’s willing, I’ll let her do it. The practice will do her good.” Bab’s opined before adding. “She only passed her driving test in the summer and she’s been in college all term so this is her first real test of mud and four-wheel stuff.”

“That would be fantastic young lady. I don’t know how to thank you enough.”

“By moving your car and letting me get past to turn around down there.” Lola giggled.

The older man laughed and promptly relocated his car. Within half an hour, the man had collected his tree.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 23

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought originally, to have been killed by the gang,
Belinda. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 23

As they lashed the Christmas tree onto the roof rack of Lola’s Land-rover the thankful motorist turned to Lola.

“Well. I just can’t thank you enough for all the help you’ve given my young lady. And I never got your name.”

Lola reddened slightly as she tried to explain without giving anything away.

“I can’t give you my name sir. When we get back to your car, the police officer will explain.”

He fell silent as Lola heard his mental gears turning.

“Are you in some sort of trouble.”

“No. But my two friends are so I cannot reveal my identity as it might compromise their security. If you want to know any more, you’ll have to ask the police officer who’s waiting in your car with my step-nana and the two girls.”

“I see. Well you have no need to fear me young lady, I’m a lieutenant general in the army.”

“I don’t fear you sir but I fear for my friends, they’re in danger and that’s all I can say.”

A tense silence settled in the car until they arrived slipping and sliding down to the lay-by where Lola’s family sat waiting. There, the general went immediately towards Gareth, the police guard and pulled out his MOD identity card. Lola watched until the general returned.

“That police officer has explained young lady I understand now, you’ve been a very brave girl. I’m going to give you my calling card so if you ever find a need of help, I might be able to offer you some.”

So saying, he handed his card and three fifty-pound-notes with his parting words.

“That’s a Christmas box for each of you girls. I won’t accept any refusal and thank you all once again. Good night every-body.”

Olivia and Angela fell upon Lola like a pack of wolves as they realised there was money to be shared.

“Fifty quid each!” Angela squealed as she took the proffered note. “Roll on the Boxing day sales!”

Olivia likewise gloated over her prize and mood in the Land-rover driving home was definitely one of festive cheer.
As they were unpacking the Land-rover at Canal cottage, Lola’s phone rang and she excused herself momentarily.

“Hi Bel, did you get all your shopping done?”

“Yes. Eventually.”

“Too much was there,” Lola chuckled.

“No it wasn’t that, my dad was late getting back with the Christmas tree.”

“Oh, nothing serious then. Was he drunk or something?”

“No. He skidded off the road rushing to catch the farm before they shut down for the night and he skidded into a ditch.”

“Oh. He’s okay though is he?”

“Yeah. Some people with a land-rover got him out of trouble.”

Lola fell silent momentarily as she realised what had happened.

“Hello, hello – you still there Lol’s?”

“Yeah; still here so what did he say happened.”

“Well he didn’t say much. Except to say he thought they were farm girls at first because they were pretty good at getting the car out of the ditch but when the older girl offered to get him to the farm in time to buy a tree, he began to realise they weren’t local girls. Especially the two black girls, they spoke like Londoners. Anyway, he gave them some money by way of saying thank you and that was it. The farm-girls took off for home and he drove back to Cirencester. His car’s got a couple of dents but it’s his car so he can sort it.”

“And that was it; nothing else?”

“Nope. How did your day go.”

“Oh just shopping, shopping, shopping. We’re pretty much set for Christmas now.”

“Will I see you before Christmas. I’ve got your pressie.”

“Ah! Well I can’t see you tomorrow, we’re going to Birmingham and Monday’s out cos we’re putting up decorations and stuff. Tuesday’s the only day I’ve got free, can I visit you on Tuesday.”

“Yes. It’s my dad you see. He wants to check you out, what with you being tran’s and stuff.”

“Will this be some sort of inquisition. If he gets abusive or super-critical, I’ll give as good as I get.”

Belinda chuckled.

“Oh don’t I know it. I well remember your first time at the debating society. I still can’t make my dad out though; he hasn’t asked any questions or pumped me for info about you. I don’t think he’ll be rude or anything but if he disapproves, I’ll find out about it one way or another.”

“Well, it’s got to be Tuesday if I’m to see you before Chrimbo or if not, it’s after Christmas.

“Tuesday it’ll have to be then. Try and dress nicely, none of those outrageous outfits you wear at the college bashes.”

Lola sensed Belinda’s nervousness but she was so amused at the thought of meeting Belinda’s father again and the consternation it might cause that she had to pinch herself to stop from bursting out laughing.

“Do I come to your house or do we meet in a pub or something?”

“Oh the house, definitely. Mum wouldn’t hear of your not coming to the house.”

The arrangements were fixed and Lola rolled over in her bed before eventually falling asleep.

Tuesday finally arrived and Lola decided on a pair a faux-denim jeggings, and her best real leather calf length boots with a medium two inch heel. Up top she wore a cream, semi-transparent, long-sleeved blouse over her white chemise with a push-up bra.

She chose the few decent pieces jewellery that she owned, namely her best diamond stud earrings, - the silver necklace that Nina had given her for getting into Cambridge, - the beautiful Lady-Rolex that she’d won as a nationwide prize for a maths competition she’d recently won and finally - a very valuable silver eternity ring that she’d stolen long ago from the social worker who’d lied about her earliest academic efforts in the courts and thus caused her to be denied a proper chance to attend a good quality school during her early teenaged years.

The eternity ring was her most secret and second most valuable possession after the watch.

The necklace was her most treasured possession for it came from Bab’s.

As she slipped the multi-jewelled eternity ring onto her finger she reflected upon the many wrongs she’d endured during the first fifteen years of her chaotic life being shuttled from care-home to care-home. Then she considered the few wonderful ‘rights’ she enjoyed since Bab’s had found her, then rescued her and finally adopted her.

Thus girded for battle, she threw her Barbour jacket across the Land-rover seats and bid Bab’s and Bridie a cheery farewell. As she picked her way up the hairpin lane she glanced at the jacket and muttered ‘bloody farm girl!’, I’ll give ‘em farm girl.

Naturally, it being late December, it was pissing down when she finally arrived in Cirencester and pulled up at Belinda’s driveway gates. She donned the Barbour jacket then tilted her ‘Zimmerman’ hat and slid out of the cab. The rattle of the diesel had immediately alerted Belinda who flew out of the front door and down the drive to ensure a smooth cordial meeting just as Lola was turning to enter the gateway.

“Best behaviour now and, by the way, my older brother’s here, he just arrived last night.”

“Have you told him I’m only into girls.”

“Yeah, but he’ll still say stupid things like – ‘what a waste’ – you know what men are like.”

“Ah well, let’s get it over with,” Lola sighed, “once more unto the breach dear friend.”

“Oh don’t be so dramatic!” Belinda charged, as she thumped Lola in the arm affectionately.

Her action was seen by her father who had appeared at the front door. To break any ice he was about to say – “What, lover’s tiff already, and you’ve not even crossed the threshold!”

Instead his words died on his lips as he recognised the girl who had helped with the car. Instead, Belinda was left to make the introductions.

“Lol’s, this is my Dad, General Harrington, and dad this is my friend from Uni - “

“Farm-girl.” Lola interjected with an amused smile.

“So it is you!” General Harrington laughed.

“The very same, complete with Barbour and Zimmer-hat.” Lola removed her hat to doff it like an Elizabethan gentleman.

“Am I missing something here?” Belinda asked.

“Yes darling,” the general explained. “It was Lola and her land-rover who rescued me the other day.”

“Plus Olivia, Angela and Gareth’s help.” Lola added.

“Well yes indeed. Let’s get you out of this rain, come along inside.”

A gob-smacked Belinda followed them in and squinted at her father as he helped Lola remove the heavy waxed Barbour coat. Then she turned to Lola.

“So it was you!”

Lola nodded with an amused smile as Belinda’s eyes started to twinkle with amusement.

“So you let me go all through that shit while wetting myself with anxiety and you two have already met.”

General Harrington took his daughter in a hug to reassure her as he explained.

“I’ve no problems with your friend Lola my darling. If she’s as good to you as she was to me that evening then I’m sure we’ll get along just fine. Martha! One more for lunch!”

Lola turned around to meet Belinda’s mother emerging from the drawing room accompanied by Belinda’s younger sisters. After introductions were completed, she was led into the dining room and placed next to the General as the rest of the family took their places. To her surprise Belinda’s brother then appeared and took a seat opposite Lola so that he faced her all through the meal.

Almost immediately the conversation centred upon the circumstances surrounding Lola’s and Belinda’s first meeting.

“And you ended up helping my daughter with some maths concerning her applied physics studies. Are you good at maths then?”

“Daddy!” Belinda almost squealed. “Lola won the Adams prize and she’s only just entered college. It’s normally awarded to graduate research students.”

Lola’s face crimsoned with embarrassment.

“Please, Bel – not so loud babes.”

The general grinned as he observed.

“Hiding your light under a bushel are you girl?”

“I haven’t been awarded it yet because I’m an undergraduate,” Lola explained, “but I’ve had it confirmed, I’ll receive it along with my degree when or if I graduate. Hopefully that’s three years from now. Belinda only found out because she saw the letter on my desk. It’s not public knowledge yet.”

“Is this to do with what that police officer said when you towed me out?”

“No. That’s just a coincidence.”

“D’ you know young lady, it seems such a pity to waste your genes. They’ve got so much potential and yet you won’t share them with the rest of humanity.”

“That’s not fair general. I’ve frozen my sperm in case I ever want children.”

“Even as she said the words, Lola suddenly had a funny thought and she failed to suppress a smile.”

“What’s so amusing then?” The general pressed. “Would you like to share the joke.”

“Uuhmm. I’d rather not, it’s a bit of private irony. A bit of my life.”

“Oh go on, don’t be shy Lola.” Belinda’s mother Martha encouraged her.

“I’d rather not. It’s very private joke.”

“If you are going to become Belinda’s partner then you become family and families shouldn’t have secrets.” General Harrington declared.

Lola shrugged, then pulled a wry smile before observing.

“Okay then. Both barrels mind you.

“Go ahead. I’ve faced live-fire plenty of times.”

“All my life I was brought up in care. People have called me scum or rubbish and bullied me in and out of every care home. Calling me a waste of space or suggesting that it would have been - ‘better if I’d dribbled down my father’s leg’-, and so on. It doesn’t do much for somebody’s self-esteem; in fact it fucks with your mind, if you’ll pardon the language.”

“Carry on young lady, I’ve heard plenty of that sort of language.”

Lola re-girded her loins and carried on as asked.

“Well! Then, suddenly, today; I meet a father suggesting it might be a good idea to share my genes with humanity and seemingly implying he’d like his own daughter to be the recipient. Normally, from where I’m usually sat; fathers are perched over their daughters riding shotgun. I think you’ll understand now why I was laughing ironically to myself. The change is difficult to adjust to.”

The general grinned then explained.

“In relationships young lady, I have always held that a couple’s relationship can survive many different elements such as differing races, differing class, different colours indeed, almost different anything except differing levels of intelligence. Two people have to be on similar wave-lengths to get through all the bangs and knocks of marriage, parenthood, poverty or whatever. Provided that couple can communicate on the same level, they can usually rub along.

I must confess to you now that we always knew our Belinda to be something of a ‘blue-stocking’ girl. She’s incredibly intelligent as you will have found out and I was always worried that she might have to travel a long painful road to find a like-minded partner. Then, out of the blue, along comes Lola Smith a transgendered girl who openly admits to having emerged from the dregs of society and appears like a rose out of the dirt to steal our Belinda’s heart and – more importantly, her mind. If, as she has confirmed, you actually helped her with a maths problem then that confirms you are of similar intellectual ability and that bodes well for both of your happiness’s. I for one am truly happy and hopeful for your mutual future, it you choose to share the same path. You have my blessings.”

“And mine,” Belinda’s mother Martha added enthusiastically.

Lola could not hide the tear of relief that forced its way to her eye.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 24

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought originally, to have been killed by the gang,
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 24

After what had transpired to be a remarkably successful lunch, Lola was invited by the women of Belinda’s family to indulge in a brief shopping trip in Cirencester before she returned home.

“I’ll just phone my nan and let her know what time I anticipate getting home,” Lola declared as she pulled out her phone.

“That’s very responsible of you Lola,” Martha observed, “Does you nan worry a lot?”

Lola just nodded affirmation so as to avoid revealing any more information. Martha was about to comment on Lola’s solicitous behaviour when she got a warning glance from her husband General Harrington. It did not go un-noticed by the sharp-eyed Lola and she flashed a brief smile of thanks towards the general.

As she and the general stood in the yard he reassured her that her secret as revealed by Gareth the police guard would remain just that with him.

“Does Belinda know anything about it?” He asked.

“Sadly no. I feel bad about that but need’s must. Hopefully it will be over by next summer. Nan and I were talking to the Inspector in Birmingham about dates for the trial last Sunday.”

“I won’t ask any more darling. Least said soonest mended.”

Lola felt a ripple of relief and pleasure at the General calling her ‘darling’. It implied her acceptance by the family. At that Belinda’s mother and sisters appeared dressed for the anticipated rain and Lola finished donning her waterproof Barbour, ‘farmgirl’ coat.

“It’ll be good to all go in Lola’s Land-rover, then we can chat.” Martha declared.

“Good luck with that young lady,” General Harrington added as Lola caught the underlying jist of his remark.

She smiled knowingly to demonstrate her awareness. The General had just warned her that his wife was a bit of a gossip. Armed with this knowledge, Lola kept her answers brief and not very informative whenever she was asked something that might have revealed her endangered circumstances. Fortunately Cirencester is not a big shopping town and they didn’t have much time. By five o’clock, most of the smaller shops had closed and Lola had delivered Belinda and her family home. By six o’clock she arrived home at Canal cottage right on schedule.
ooo000ooo

She was surprised to find Joyce who was still Olivia and Angela’s social worker, drinking coffee with Bridie and the family.

“Oh hello! This is a nice surprise.” Lola grinned.

“Nice to see you likewise,” Joyce agreed. “Bab’s has been bringing me up to date with your progress and I’m really pleased for you. No – excited would be a better word. You’re one of our success stories and it’s good just for us social workers to occasionally be able to celebrate. I’ve got some more good news for you as well.”

“Go one,” Lola pressed.

“Well the funding for your surgery in the summer has been released so everything is on course for your transition. The other news is this.”

Joyce held up a cheque and explained.

“It's the first part of your compensation for the time you were made homeless. It’s your money so here you are. Just sign this receipt.”

Lola signed for the cheque and studied it before handing it to Bab’s.

“This can go to extending the house. You’ll need it for interim payments won’t you?”

“Slow down darling." Bab's exclaimed. "We haven’t even got planning permission yet. You’ll have transitioned before everything’s complete.”

“That’s not exactly true Bab’s.” Joyce elaborated.

"Oh! Go oon." Bab's probed.

“Birmingham are just about ready to release Erica from the clinic and the general consensus is that she would thrive in an environment like this cottage.”

“But there’s no room.” Lola opined. “We are already four adults in three bedrooms. Where is she going to sleep?”

That’s exactly what the SS case worker’s meeting concluded this morning. That’s why I’m here to discuss the situation with you all.

Lola grinned lopsidedly. “Well there’s a first.”

Joyce frowned painfully, for Lola’s remark had hit a nerve.

“Now-now, Lola, it’s not easy you know. We don’t have a bottomless pit of money.”

“Sorry Joyce. Old scars run deep. I was being a bit self-indulgent. So, is this what I think it’s about, having Erica coming to stay here?”

“Well, yes.”

“So who would she share with? There’s only three bedrooms.”

“Well Bab’s has mentioned another option.”

Lola suspected she knew what was coming as she prompted Joyce to reveal what Lola already suspected.

“Go – oon!”

“Well, you are not here during term time and we were wondering if you’d be prepared to let Erica have your room and you live on the guard boat while the building work is under way.”

“What about Bridie and Brian, not to mention Gareth and George the other guard; where will they stay? They don’t use the caravan anymore.”

“There’s room enough on the boat for three or even five; plenty of room - and we can arrange to have main’s services connected from the house. It will only be for about six months while the building work goes ahead.”

Lola fell into a thoughtful silence as she considered the options. Finally she raised one last question.

“Is Erica house-trained? – You know what I mean. Bab’s is getting on and it only works for Olivia and Angie because they pull their weight. I’ve seen both of them doing laundry, cooking, cleaning – you name it. In all fairness, Bab’s has got what amounts to two perfect daughters; - and that’s a good thing – don’t get me wrong. But is Erica cut from the same cloth? As I said; is she house trained?”

“I think you should let me be the judge of that.” Bab’s interjected.

“Yeh, you’re right Nina but I still worry for you, you’re not getting any younger.”

Lola then turned to her step-sisters.

“You two would be best to judge. You knew Erica before she was kidnapped.”

Olivia and Angela glanced anxiously at each other. This was one of the few times they had been forced to sit in upon a serious adult discussion that might affect their personal circumstances. They both knew that Erica had been something of a wild-child at the home but they didn’t remember any nastiness like stealing or lying or bullying. The both sensed that Lola had an insightfulness somewhat beyond her years.

Both girls were keen to see Erica in a good place but Lola had shed a piercing light into their world. Nervously, Olivia took the bull by the horns.

“We were all misfits and ne’er-do-wells when we first came here. It’s been Babs’s magic that’s worked for us. Can’t we give Erica the same chance?”

Lola’s hardness softened slightly. Olivia’s more compassionate view had served to promote a more humanitarian atmosphere.

‘Perhaps the risk was worth taking’, she thought.

Even though she would not be there to ensure that Bab’s was not bullied or disobeyed. It seemed that Olivia was turning out to be as considerate and caring of Bab’s as Lola had been when she first met Bab’s.

To this end, Lola decided to give up her beloved little bedroom sanctuary at the cottage and move to the police narrow-boat until a bigger better room became available after the extension was built.

‘After all,’ she ruminated, ‘it would only be for a few weeks during the Easter hols, for during the summer break, she would be in hospital getting her transition sorted’.

“Okay. I’ll move to the narrow-boat whenever you want.” Lola declared.

She felt an inner sense of satisfaction and self-worth as she saw Joyce almost sag with relief. Then she realised.

‘Joyce had nowhere else suitable to put Erica and, - but for the existence of Canal Cottage, the girl would in all probability, have been lost again in the shambolic care of London’s ‘inner-city’ abuse system.’

Lola now realised that Joyce’s ‘Thank-you Lola.’ Was far more heartfelt than she had first thought. To add substance to Joyce’s relief Lola took the case forward leaps and bounds by asking.

“I’ll move today if it helps, provided these two help shift my stuff; - and get my old bedroom ready for her, you know, clean sheets and stuff. When d’ you want Erica to move in?”

“Could we get her in before Christmas?” Joyce wondered hopefully.

“Whoa! That’s only the day after tomorrow. You’d better check with Inspector John and Sergeant Bridie. It’s Christmas and they’ve got Logistical issues as well. You know, cars and drivers and stuff. Not to mention families of course!”

Joyce found herself looking at Lola in a new light. ‘The angry young misfit of just three-and-a-half years ago had matured into a really balanced and mature young adult.’

Regretfully, she conceded Lola’s points. ‘It was pushing things a bit.’

“Ah well, I suppose it was worth a try. We’d better leave it until after Christmas.” Joyce conceded though the disappointment was clear in her voice.

Lola fell silent as her brain ticked away then she motioned secretively to Bab’s who was busy mixing the Christmas pudding. Bab’s looked up and smiled knowingly to Lola who slid her eyes towards the little utility room at the back of the cottage. Having got the message, Bab’s made some excuse about raisins and glazed cherries while Lola pretended to want a wee.
In the brief interval they chatted quietly.

“Couldn’t I collect Erica in the Land-rover. It’s never been near Birmingham hospital and nobody would be expecting that sort of vehicle.”

“What about a police escort? The police are bound to want to ensure her safety.”

“Well one of the armed guards could accompany me, it wouldn’t take more than four hours, there and back, in fact probably less.”

“And when would this be done. It’s nearly midday now and tomorrow’s Christmas eve.”

“Well Gareth is down on the house-boat right now with George the other guard. George is changing shifts with Gareth so I’ll go and work my magic on Gareth to ask him if he’ll escort us there and back. If Olivia and Angie come with me it would just be like a shopping trip.

And another thing. I’m hardly known at the hospital. If Ollie and Angie lie low when we actually get to the hospital nobody will suspect anything. Just a girl and a man in a land-rover. Gareth could even do the driving then it will look like father and daughter, can’t we run it by Gareth and Bridie now?”

Bab’s frowned then capitulated.

“Very well then, you can try. Go and ask Gareth to come here, I’ll speak to Joyce and Bridie.”

“When they broached the idea a few minutes later the general consensus was that it was workable and Bridie contacted Inspector John.”

The factors that enabled it was that Gareth had never been near the hospital and therefore could enter and leave with turning a single head, the Land rover had never been near the hospital and was an unknown and finally, Lola was little known because she had been up at Uni during most of their visits concerning Eric’s recovery.

The plan was set and by mid-afternoon Lola and the girls plus Gareth the armed guard were driving up to Birmingham.

“Don’t forget you two, heads down and beaks under blankets as we enter the hospital.”

“Got that Gareth,” Olivia and Angela chorused as they prepared to burrow down on the floor at the back.

Lola and Gareth exchanged cautionary glances as his gun lay under a jacket between them on the front seat.

“Keep a sharp look out now girl. Anything remotely suspicious, and you tell me immediately.”

“I’m glad that you showed me how to use that thing.” She whispered as she tapped the hidden gun.

Gareth glanced angrily at her as he responded in a whisper.

“I never heard that! And don’t you ever dream of doing anything stupid if things go pear-shaped!”

Lola nodded vigorously. Truly she was aware of the dangers surrounding her step-sisters and Erica. After a few more minutes, they arrived at the hospital gates and Lola gave brief clipped instructions.

“Right here, now left by that parked laundry van, now down that ramp and I’ll tap in the door code. Erica and her armed guard should be waiting behind the laundry entrance shutters. No, no, keep going they are usually inside the little office. Normally we girls wear burkahs but one day those rapists are gonna’ twig.”

The pair stopped the land-rover and took a good look around before cautioning Olivia and Angela to continue lying low/

“Well this is her last day at the hospital,” Gareth observed so hopefully we won’t ever have to run this gauntlet again.”

Gareth tapped in the door code on the key-pad and the roller door slid upwards to reveal nothing. Gareth looked around as concern began to register. Then to his and Lola’s relief, the side office door opened and Erica’s guard emerged. He acknowledged Gareth then looked all around before signalling to his ward to emerge. Erica appeared clad in her burka then slid into the middle row of seats.

“You’d best lie on the floor Erica,” Lola advised. A burka clad girl with two men and a white girl might attract attention.

“Where are you taking me?”

“Somewhere safe girl,” Lola replied. “Once we’re clear of the hospital you can sit up.”

Once they cleared the hospital gates a general mood of relief swept through the vehicle.

“Best you stay low a little longer,” Gareth advised, “until we’re clear of the city.”

“I’m getting bloody stiff!” Angela complained.
On hearing Angela’s voice, Erica let out a squeal of delight.

“Is that you Angie?”

“Both of us.” Olivia added with a giggle of relief. “You don’t think we’d have missed this do you?”

Erica stirred to take a sly peep over the middle row of seats but her police guard reached back casually and gently placed his hand on her head.

“Not yet love, you heard the driver; after we’re clear of the city.”

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 25

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought originally, to have been killed by the gang,
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 25

Once they were clear of Birmingham’s city limits and trundling down the motorway as only Land-rovers can, Gareth pointed to a ‘Motorway-Services sign and suggested they swap over again to let Lola drive the remainder of the way.

“The more practice the merrier girl.” Gareth opined as Lola nodded vigorous agreement.

“Anybody want a wee?” Lola asked as Gareth eased into the slip lane then turned into the car-park.

Three voices sounded simultaneously and within minutes the four girls were relieving themselves while Gareth and George took it in turns to wait discreetly outside while also relieving themselves.

As Lola emerged first from the female loos she grinned at Gareth.

“It must be the tension.”

“Now there’s a thought,” Gareth replied with a grin.

Suddenly, Lola’s happy demeanour changed and she whispered urgently to Gareth.

“What do we do if we think we’re being followed?”

“Are we – being followed that is?”

“I can’t be sure but that Merc outside the Burger-King outlet seems familiar. There was a silver Merc just like it outside the hospital and that one had a missing front hub-cap as well.”

Gareth instructed Lola to wait within the loos and to warn the others while he did a discrete check on the number plate.

Within minutes the answer came back. -Car belongs to a Saleem Mahar. A gentleman with a previous conviction for drug dealing and suspected to be still active. Also a conviction for ABH (actual-bodily-harm).

Armed with this information Gareth gathered the girls and George to plan a strategy.

“Right everybody. We cannot be certain that they are interested in us; it might just be a ‘county lines’ coincidence but there’s a strong possibility they’re stalking us. We shall leave by the door at the other end of the service building then work our way around through the lorry park. The shrubs that hide the bulk of the lorry park should help to hide us if we walk on the far side of the lorries. Then we can get into our land-rover at the back of the car-park. That way they may not spot us until we actually exit the carpark via the tunnel past the coach park.

If they are following us, I’ll park amongst the busses and they’ll reveal themselves before they realise they’ve been spotted.”
With the plan agreed, Gareth’s strategy exposed a very high probability that they had clocked the land-rover and that was a real cause for concern. The Mercedes swept past the busses as it accelerated onto the motorway approach road and rocketed off south in a vain endeavour to catch up with the land-rover that they presumed to be speeding south ahead of them and out of sight.

Gareth immediately called the motorway police to organise a ‘stop-and-search’ of the Mercedes while they waited back at the service station for the results. It wasn’t long before the message appeared confirming that the car was carrying class A drugs in quantities that were deemed proof of dealing for legal purposes. A check of the mobile phones indicated that the Mercedes had nothing to do with following the land-rover but it had lots of information concerning dealers and couriers all over the midlands.

“Sorry to have wasted your time,” Lola apologised to Gareth and George.

“Not at all kiddo,” George replied. “We’ve got a mountain of intelligence from the idiot’s phone. He hadn’t locked it.”

“Immediately the three girls whipped out their phones and asked the police to check if any of their contact numbers were on Saleem’s phone; especially Jason, Tyrone or Tyson. There was a concerned silence when confirmation of Tyson’s number appeared amongst a discreet barbell cluster stretching from London to Birmingham.

“Are there any dates related to calls to our numbers?” Olivia asked.

“Yes, but they are old; from before you were found and rescued. There’s nothing since they’ve been remanded, pending trial.”

“Well that’s the number of my old phone, there’s nothing relating to my new phone so we should be okay.” Erica offered hopefully.

“It still begs the question how they traced the land-rover and to whom. They must have somebody on the inside at the hospital who’s been watching you.” Gareth explained. “They possibly watched you leaving the clinic and noted you departing from the clinic block.”

“What shall we do then?” Lola asked.

“I’ve had Inspector John put a police block on your vehicle registration number with the DVLC in Swansea. And so far they’ve had no inquiries about your vehicle since this morning. Hopefully, the block is working. I’ll know within a couple of days now that your vehicle’s got a police tag protecting it.”

“I hope so.” Lola replied softly.

Once the issue of the stalking Merc was resolved, they resumed their journey but diverted to Gloucester police HQ where the girls were transferred to a police car while the land-rover was temporarily impounded at the police pound until any interest was demised. The police car took them home via a convoluted route through the lanes and it was long after nightfall before the girls got home. Having been made aware of the problem, Bab’s was waiting for them as they arrived.

As pre-arranged, Lola slept on the narrow-boat while Erica slept in Lola’s old room. Brian and Gareth shared guard duties that night and throughout Christmas at the cottage. Despite the concerns, everybody contrived to make their first Christmas an enjoyable one for each of the girls and indeed, for Bab’s as well. It was the nearest thing to a ‘Family Christmas’ that any of them had had in many a year.

Immediately after Christmas, the police camera surveillance system was expanded to include the communal car-park at the top of the lane. Seeing the extent of the increased security preparations had a sobering effect on the girls and the New Year’s party preparations were somewhat muted. The only seemingly bright spot being the news that Aaron and his family would be down to join the festivities.
Sensing Lola’s disappointment, Bab’s arranged for Sergeant Bridie to bring Belinda to the party if she wished.

On receiving the telephone invitation, Belinda squealed with delight and immediately accepted before she informed her parents.

“We’ll be disappointed you won’t be attending the party with the rest of us at the Golf Club,” General Harrington declared, “but we understand.”

“What? Being nice to a bunch of old fuddy-duddies bragging about their golfing handicaps while their over-sexed sons are all trying to get into my knickers! Come on daddy, get real. I can stay over with Lola because she’s invited me to stay over at hers for a few days. At least she won’t get me pregnant.”

“Belinda!!” Her mother exclaimed. “Please! Show a bit of decorum girl! We didn’t spend all that money on sending you to Cheltenham Ladies College for you to make comments like that!”

“Sorry mummy. But, well; a weekend with Lola is a bit more attractive than listening to daddy’s friends drone on and on about golf, or worse, their wives all trying to out-do each other by bragging about their children’s antics – sorry; achievements.”

Secretly, Martha felt bound to agree with her daughter. The golf-club wives were truly a boring, pretentious crowd.”

ooo000ooo

On New-year’s eve, Bridie collected Belinda in her own car to ensure anonymity and delivered Belinda to the cottage. On the drive from Cirencester to the cottage, Bridie filled Belinda in on some important facts that almost frightened her into not going.

“Yes. It’s that serious Belinda,” Bridie warned her. “Would you believe I had to do a ‘background check’ on you and your family before Lola was allowed to invite you. This is a hugely sensitive business.”

Belinda swallowed nervously.

“I suppose it’s a good job my dad is General Harrington then.”

“It helped Belinda; it helped a lot. Now here we are. We get out here and walk down to the cottage. You’ll note that the gate has a lock and all boat owners have a key. There’re also hidden security cameras everywhere, so might I suggest no uuuhm, canoodling when you’re coming back from a day out or something. You are being watched.”

“Blimey! What about the bedroom?”

“You’ll learn about that when we get there. Come on, be careful, the lane’s slippy.”

They each shared a strap of Belinda’s bag as they picked their way down the lane only to be met by a dementedly happy Lola dashing halfway up the lane after she had spotted them arriving on the cameras. After a desperate hugging and kissing session, they relieved Bridie of her load and continued down to the cottage.

At the garden gate they met Bab’s who explained that Olivia, Angela and Erica where upstairs getting ready for the party.

“You’d best go and get ready yourselves,” Bab’s suggested. “Those three will be hours yet; you know what fifteen-year-olds are like.”

The arrangements were explained and Lola prepared to take her fried and partner onto the boat,

“So you and I share a house-boat with one or even two armed coppers,” Belinda giggled on learning of the arrangements.

“It’s the safest place.” Lola explained. “Come on; I’ll show you my cabin – sorry, our cabin.”

“Lead on MacDuff.” Belinda replied as she noted Bridie preparing to follow them.

“Do we get a police escort everywhere we go?” Belinda wondered aloud.

“No you silly goose!” Bridie chuckled. “I’m just going to change for the party.”

After Lola and Belinda had settled into their cosy little cabin. Bridie brought some coffee and explained the full situation to Belinda.

“The two girls at risk are Angie and Erica. They are both victims and primary witnesses to the crimes and some very powerful people are implicated. To a lesser degree, Olivia is also a witness but she’s not a victim in this particular case.”

“What about Lola?”

“She’s not involved in the case at all. She’s just a transgendered victim of transphobic parenting and an insensitive care system. She ran away from some incompetent adoptive parents and first started ‘sofa-surfing’ in friend’s flats. One night she ended up with a friend of a friend who tried to rape her and when that failed he tried to dispose of her in some bin bags. Bab’s found her and rescued her so we have Bab’s to thank for Lola’s amazing turn-around.”

“My god! She’s never spoken of that in college!”

“Well she wouldn’t, would she? Now that’s enough about Lola’s past. If she want’s to tell you, she’ll tell you herself – when she’s good and ready.”

“What’s in that section?” Belinda asked in effort to change the subject.

“That’s an armoured refuge for the girls if the criminals try to get at them.”

“Bloody hell!”

Having been fully briefed, Belinda joined Lola in their now cramped cabin and prepared for the party, but not before a physically emotional re-union on the bed.

A couple of hours later Lola, Belinda and Sergeant Bridie joined Sergeant Brian and they returned to the cottage where preparations were pretty much complete. There Belinda met Olivia, Angela and Erica for the first time. She also met Aaron and Shirley plus their three youngsters.

The party proved to be a memorable eye-opener for Belinda on several different levels. Not least being human trafficking.

At midnight they all trooped outside to let off some fireworks for the Benefit of Aaron and Shirley’s children then eventually, as younger heads became heavy-eyed each partygoer made their excuses and headed for bed.

“I’m surprised that Bab’s allows Olivia and Angela to sleep together.” Belinda declared as she snuggled up to Lola.

“They’re old enough at sixteen and they can’t get pregnant,” Lola countered.

As they lay together in the dark, Belinda giggled thoughtfully before observing.

“I’ll bet Erica’s as jealous as sin seeing us and those two sharing our beds.”

Having spent a childhood with good parenting and high quality schooling, Belinda neither saw nor sensed her transgendered friend’s visceral grimace as Lola reflected upon all that had happened in her life and those of Olivia, Angela and Erica. It was testament to Lola’s recovery and her affections for Belinda that she managed to remain calm and good tempered as she spoke of Erica’s circumstances.

“I should think that Erica’s just glad to have a safe, comfortable bed free of any unwanted attention. It’s gonna be a long time before she’s over it, - if ever.”

Belinda fell into a guilty introspection as she considered Lola’s words. She realised that she might just have overstepped the mark and concluded that a policy of ‘least said; soonest mended’ was the best tactic. In the following silence, she eventually fell asleep spooned into Lola’s embrace.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 26 ©

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)
Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal. Friends of Lola
Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat in Bristol.
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome, (more level-headed and sensible than Jackie).
Jason. (Black) London Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking young girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend (Rape-gang Victim and important witness)
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Detective Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another girl victim thought originally, to have been killed by the gang,
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 26
©

Belinda was disturbed mid-morning by Lola trying to slip out of bed without disturbing her.

“Mmm.” She sighed softly as she reached out to stroke Lola’s thigh.

“You don’t have to get up yet do you?”

“Sorry babe’s, I’ve gorra’ wee.”

Belinda rolled over to study Lola’s softly rounded butt as she slipped out of the little cabin then reached up to pull the little curtain aside and peep through their port-hole. Everywhere was silver-white with hoar-frost and she shivered luxuriously as she gathered the welcoming duvet around her. She heard Lola exchanging ‘Happy-new-year’s’ with Gareth and Brian before the cabin door slid back and her partner quickly burrowed back under the duvet. As they curled up together Belinda whispered.

“I’m sorry about last night and Erica. I didn’t realise – you know – about her problems.”

“Don’t worry Babe’s. Nobody was hurt. It was only between you and me and I’m not going to tell am I? The last thing I want to do is distress the poor kid.”

The continued cuddling under the cosy duvet until there was a knock on their cabin door.

“Who-is-it?” Belinda asked.

“Brian. The kettle’s on and then we’re going for a walk to clear our heads. Aaron’s invited us to a light lunch on their boat. Are you coming?”

“Give us a minute.”

The pair had one last cuddle then reluctantly emerged from the warm bed and quickly scampered for the shower. After some mutually intimate attention to their hygiene, they dressed appropriately for the frosty morn then joined Gareth and Brian at the cottage. Naturally the younger girls weren’t ready so Lola and Belinda went with Brian while Gareth stayed behind to protect Olivia, Angela and Erica.

As they crunched through the hoar-frost along the tow-path, it was Belinda’s first opportunity to get a good look at the estuary.

“It’s beautiful here.”

“Yeah, we like it,” Lola replied somewhat dismissively. “Look there’s Aaron’s kids, they’ve made a slide on that icy puddle. Come on.”

With no more ado, Lola trotted along the path and launched herself onto the lethally slippery strip to fetch up at the other end and step off with poise and balance. Belinda then tried and perfectly resembled Bambi on his first experience on the pond. Lola chuckled and quickly intervened just as Belinda started to fall with arms and legs flailing. She just managed to soften Belinda’s landing by catching her under the arms as she flopped down with a thump on her bum. Aaron’s children started shrieking with laughter and the incident set the mood of joviality for the rest of the day.

After several more attempts, Belinda finally achieved a little proficiency and it was her turn to laugh as ‘the three amigos’ appeared and promptly made fools of themselves. As they settled down to eat. Bab’s appeared with Bridie who had just arrived to relieve Gareth or Brian of escort duty.

“What’s the news on the Land-rover. Is it okay to use it now?” Lola asked when she had a moment alone.

“Give it a couple of days to go cold, then we’ll see, there are other reasons for the delay as well.” Bridie advised as Bab’s nodded agreement.

“I’m beginning to miss the old bus already, especially if this ice and stuff gets worse. We’ll be needing it soon, so what’s the delay?”

“We’ve given it a ‘make-over’ girl. You won’t recognise her when you see her. Different colour and a few other modifications; we’re just waiting for the altered registration to come through.”

“Crickey Bridie. You’re going to an awful lot of trouble.”

Once again, Bridie felt forced to re-iterate the size and seriousness of the case.

“Listen Lola. This case is like Topsy. It just keeps growing and growing. We’ve been forced to put back the preliminary hearings yet again because of international connections. I can’t even begin to tell you what new countries are involved – or more importantly, which politicians are involved. Erica is crucial to this case! Especially the connections between Britain and the Middle East!”

Lola just nodded sagaciously before responding.

“You will look after Erica after all this won’t you; not just throw her to the wolves?”

“As if she was my own daughter Lola. The kid deserves that at least after all the shit she’s had.”

On this subdued note, Lola re-joined the others as they prepared to go for a walk along the tow-path before going to see a pantomime in Bristol.

ooo000ooo

Because it was an extended holiday, Belinda did not return home to her parents until the Tuesday instead of the Monday. This was also to enable Lola to get her hair dyed then pick up the repainted, re-registered Land rover from Gloucester Police workshops.

“I’m not sure I like the Olive green,” Lola remarked, “but I suppose it’s a neutral colour that won’t attract attention.”

“Exactly,” Bridie agreed. “Well, off you go, you might as well deliver Belinda back to her parents. See you back at the house tonight.”

“Don’t I need an escort?” Lola wondered.

“Who’s to know?” Bridie continued. “If anybody is looking for you, they’re looking for a fair-haired girl in a metallic red vehicle not a light brown haired girl in an olive green one. Plus the plates have been changed so you should be pretty safe.”

Bridie’s observation made good sense so Lola and Belinda bid the police sergeant goodbye and set off towards Cirencester. By mid afternoon Belinda was delivered safely and Lola made her way home.

“Any problems?” Bridie asked as Lola gratefully made the shelter of the cottage from the driving, penetrating sleet that sometimes made a person feel colder than a Siberian winter because of the high humidity.

Lola shrugged and smiled. As she backed up against the welcoming AGA stove.

“No. Nothing; and what’s more, they’ve given my pride and joy an engine overhaul. She doesn’t smoke and she runs much sweeter. Thanks Bridie.”

“Yes. They told me at the station after you left. Oh! And they also want to interview Erica again. There’s more new stuff to review and they’ll want her to look at yet more photos.”

“Poor bitch,” Lola frowned. “She must be getting sick to death with it all.”

“We all are.” Bridie added. “Just give her your friendship and support. She really likes you.”

“I thought she was more into Olivia and Angie.”

“They’re her contemporary friends Lola, she sees you as more like a big sister.”

Lola grinned as she remarked.

“I’m too young for that responsibility. Where are they by the way, and Bab’s for that matter?”

“They’ve gone with Brian and Gareth into Bristol. Erica needs a school uniform because she’s asked to go to the same school. Plus of course, there’s the New Year’s sales.”

“She’s brave. I thought she’d have opted for home tutoring. And another thing, won’t the other kids be asking questions?”

“There’s little option if we’re to try and offer her any sort of normality.”

“So what’s her cover story?”

“We keep it as simple and as close to the truth as possible. That reduces the chances of any stupid mistakes. Bab’s has fostered another kid from a London care home so that will explain Erica’s cockney accent.”

They chatted together by the warmth of the kitchen stove as they prepared a large pan of cowl in anticipation of the shopper’s return. Eventually, the girls returned laden with New Year’s sales purchases while chattering noisily and shivering from the storm that had now turned from sleet to heavy snow. Being not far short of eighty, Babs was immediately given her regular chair close to the stove while Bridie and Lola set about serving the cowl they had prepared. Silence soon descended on the kitchen save for the busy clinking of spoons on plates.

After the meal, Brian and Gareth retired to the narrow-boat while the ‘girls’ retreated to the living room to watch a video. To Lola’s delight and surprise, Erica shyly joined her on one end of the big settee and curled up in the crook of Lola’s arm as the video credits started to roll. Bab’s and Bridie smiled indulgently as the sublimal message was broadcast by Erica’s action. The kid was beginning to react normally to close physical contact; a sure sign that Erica was getting better.

Later that evening as Olivia and Angela prepared hot chocolate night-caps for everybody, Erica whispered in Lola’s ear.

“Can I stay by you tonight?”

“What? On the boat?”

“Well there or in your bedroom.”

“It’s your bedroom now babes, until the extension’s built. You’d best check with Bab’s”

“She’s sleeping, and I don’t want to disturb her.”

Lola sighed softly and reassured the younger girl.

“I’ll ask her, you go and help Ollie and Angie.”

When Erica returned with the trolley full of hot drinks, Lola gave her a smile and a nod. To her added relief, both Bridie and Bab’s also nodded whilst clearly intimating ‘no monkey business.’

The silent message was however unnecessary for Bab’s already knew that Lola was now impotent as a boy. Cuddles was all Erica was asking for and cuddles was all she’d get. They proved exceedingly reparative for Erica as the dawn's unusuall brilliance dragged her to the window.

ooo000ooo

“Ooooh! It’s beautiful!” Gasped Erica as she knelt on all fours at the end of the bed and gazed at the pristine white snow through the gap in the curtains. “Just look at the view Lola!”

“I am looking at the view girl. Pull you nighty down!”

“Eeek!” Erica squeaked as she hurriedly tugged the hem over her pantied derriere.”

She turned; crimson faced with embarrassment before a grin wiped the colour away.

“You’re rude!” She accused Lola.

“What! Me? Who’s the one exposing her butt? Nice panties by the way, did you buy those in the sales?”

“Yes.” Erica confirmed as she simultaneously realised that Lola’s preoccupation with her pretty panties truly demonstrated that she was not a sexual threat.

Despite still having her ‘little-boy-bits’ Lola was genuinely safe. On realising for certain that there was absolutely NO sexual threat, Erica slipped back under the duvet and snuggled up to her ‘older sister’ and rested her head on Lola’s breasts.

“Thanks big sis,” she whispered gratefully; “thanks for everything!”

The cuddles did not last for long, however. They were both dozing semi-consciously when the bedroom door creaked gently open as Olivia and Angela peeked in; only to let out a squeal of surprise at finding the pair in their embrace.

“You randy buggers!” Olivia accused.

“Nothing’s happened,” Lola declared then added. “Remember when you first came here and ended up in this very same bed before you settled down. Did anything happen then?”

Olivia fell silent as she recalled her first nervous nights. Lola was right; nothing had happened short of reassuring cuddles.

“Nothing happened then; nothing’s happened now.” Lola reaffirmed with a tinge of irritation.
“Now, what else do you want?”

“We, uuhm, wondered if you were up for a walk. You know, pristine white snow, strange animal tracks spoiling it, building a snowmen and all that stuff.” Angie offered.

“Give us some time to decide.” Lola declared reluctantly. “It’s too warm in here to be freezing our butts off out there.”

“Oh come on! Don’t be spoil sports, how often do you get a chance to play in the snow these days?” Olivia protested.

Eventually, Erica peeped out owl-like from under the duvet.

“Bugger off, it’s too bloody cold out there!”

“Oooh! Listen to grumpy then.” Angie teased. “Come on Ollie.”

The pair left and it was Lola’s turn to kneel on all fours by the bedroom window to watch the two black girls cavorting in the snow. Erica could not resist getting her own back.

“Nice panties Lol’ Nice fit too. Where does it all go?”

“Oh bugger off. I’m not going to bite you know.” Lola grinned. “I’m passed the baiting stage now. Oh look. Gareth and Brian have joined them they’ve started a snowball fight.”

Erica slid out from under the duvet and joined Lola at the window.

“They look to be having fun. Shall we join them?”

They exchanged grins and within a few minutes there was a full blown ‘snow-ball war’ on the canal towpath.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 27.

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.
Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted with Olivia's consent.

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 27.

When the New Year’s holiday finished, the cottage was visited by the architects and the builder who discussed the plans for the extension. The modifications were discussed secretly and in depth between Bab’s and the police protection squad until finally the architect and builder were presented with the supposed family requirements. Those requirements were in fact secret police recommendations to make the cottage more secure if ever the rape gang learned of the cottage’s function and decided to come calling.

The next hurdle was enrolling Erica in the school where Olivia and Angela were now thriving. Fortunately the remote cottage was the first embarkation point for the school bus so it was empty when Erica accompanied her newly adopted sisters on the first morning. The bus driver’s greeting was friendly and her genuine smile put Erica at ease. The second pickup was a young girl in her first year at high school who had long been on good terms with Olivia and Angela and the continued friendly atmosphere served to put Erica at ease. As more children boarded introductions continued and naturally, Erica’s beauty attracted the boys. Being white, she was obviously not blood-related to the well-known Olivia and Angela so questions were inevitably asked.

The cover story worked well because it was essentially true. Bab’s had fostered another kid from care and she was living at the same home as Ollie and Angie. The only difference being that the older boys were obviously interested in Erica’s stunning good looks.

The three girls had already determined what strategy they were going to adopt and basically, Erica was going to act shy and withdrawn while Olivia and Angie were to be her ‘guard dogs’ if any of the boys got too pushy.

When the bus arrived at the school unfortunately, one of the boys had already sneaked a photo on his phone and sent it to his friends. There was already a reception committee of curious boys hanging around wanting to get a good look at the new girl as she disembarked.

The general consensus amongst the ‘glands’ was - ‘Phwoorr! She’s a cracker!’ – and the inevitable sexual interest developed.

“Jeeze! They’re like bloody stags at a rut!” Erica whispered to her ‘protectors’.

“Come on! Let’s get inside. You’re in the same registration class as us.” Olivia replied.

The trio fought their way through the normal hurly burly of ‘first day back’ and Olivia and Angela soon settled into their familiar desks. Erica was introduced to the class registration teacher and presented her registration slip.

On sighting the endorsements the teacher immediately set about re-arranging the seating to accommodate Erica’s ‘special needs’ which had been explained in depth at an earlier ‘staff meeting’ before term had commenced. The teacher already had the note correctly describing Erica as a survivor of abuse and afraid of males.

To avoid too much resentment, the teacher had intelligently re-arranged the seating to accommodate various group friendships. The re-seating plans actually pleased the class while Erica found herself seated beside the window wall behind Olivia and in front of Angela but next to a pillar so nobody could look into the class from the grounds and see her to recognise her.

After registration, Erica was whisked away for academic assessment by the form teacher and she spent the remainder of the day completing assorted tests. At lunchtime Olivia and Angela quickly located her and escorted her to the dining hall.

“School meals aren’t bad here. You get a pretty good choice and it’s not junk stuff so take your pick sister.” Angie encouraged her as Olivia stood behind her to prevent unwanted attention.

Erica hesitated momentarily then quickly realised that Olivia obviously had something of a ‘spikey’ reputation for nobody pushed themselves forward as Erica finally made her choices. They made their way to a vacant table and started into their food before three boys approached.

“What do you want?” Olivia demanded.

“There’s spare places at this table we wondered if we could join you.”

“You’ve never joined us before, is it because of miss supermodel here?” Angie replied bluntly.

The raw truth hit home and the boys hesitated before one of them pressed a bit harder.

“Well, there’s spaces here. We’re not taking somebody-else’s places.”

“Okay, sit there if you want, we can’t stop you.”

Olivia motioned to the empty spaces at the other end of the table and shrugged before turning her back and resuming her meal. One of the boys had the wit to get the hint. ‘-Thus close and no closer- ‘. He placed himself towards the other end and nodded to his friends to sit on the far side of him, away from the girls. Olivia caught his eye and gave a very slight, discreet nod to the boy. She knew him from her art and English classes for he was a bright and decent boy. He was also a sporty type and popular in the school. Knowing this, Olivia opened up.

“Been sent by the others to gather intelligence have you?” She demanded.

“Sort of.” The boy replied quite openly as he savoured Erica’s beauty. “What’s your name love?”

“Erica.” She replied very softly. “What’s yours?”

“David. I share art and English with Ollie here. What are your subjects?”

“Dunno yet, I’m being assessed.” Erica continued to almost whisper.

“Oh, what do you hope to study?”

“Don’t know yet. I’ll have to wait and see.”

David sensed the reluctance to reveal anything else so he shrugged and started into his food. This sent the same message to his companions and a brief silence ensued as everybody ate their meals.

After finishing their food, Olivia and Angela chaperoned Erica back to the exam room then turned to confront David who had discreetly followed them at a diplomatic distance.

“You needn’t bother trying to get anywhere with her Dave,” Olivia advised, “she’s like us inasmuch as she’s from a care home and she’s had a rough time of it. However, she’s not like Angie and me insofar as she’s not gay. She was abused just like me and Angie, consequently she’s afraid of boys and still receiving therapy for it.”

The last bit about therapy was a lie but Olivia knew she would have to lay it on thick to get the message through to the testosterone saturated glands that passed for the year twelve and thirteen boys. She finished with a blunt warning.

“If any of you jocks try to harass her or molest her I can assure you it won’t just be the school authorities who’ll come down on you.”

“So back off!” Angela added for good measure.

Dave squinted thoughtfully as he sensed the import of the two black girls’ veiled threat. It was obvious that the lesbian pair were a party to some other issues because their confidence was obvious and assured. He decided to keep his counsel until the girls were more relaxed. Sadly, the picture of Erica taken by the boy on the bus was already spread around the school and was soon to go viral.

When Ollie and Angie opened up there phones during the end of the lunch-time break, they were dismayed to see a string of questions about Erica.

“Fuck! She should never have come to this school!” Angela cursed.

“Trouble is, she wanted to. She just wanted some normality in her life.” Olivia sighed. "With her looks, it would be just as bad as in any other school. Here, at least she's got us to protect her."

“Yeah but just look at all this shit! People asking us for her phone number and there’s one here even asking about her bus.” Angela added.

Even as she said it, a pregnant pause filled the pair with dread then Olivia voiced their fears.

“Everybody in the school knows which bus we take and the route it takes. This must be somebody else; somebody outside the school!”

“Shit! Shit! Shit!” Angela cursed. “We’d better warn Bridie. Erica’s cover might be blown.”

“What about our cover. They’re also after me you know.” Angie observed. “And you for that matter.”

Olivia was already dialling; first Bridie then Bab’s and Brian at the house.

“Don’t get the bus home,” Bridie ordered, “Brian will pick you up.”

Armed with this knowledge, the pair asked to see the headmaster as they had been previously instructed when they first the attended the school. Plans were set in place immediately and pre-arranged preparations commenced. Three hours later, before the school day had ended. The three girls found themselves in a disguised ‘media company’ van outside the school monitoring all the parental traffic that arrived to collect children.

It wasn’t long before the police observers sharing the van, took an interest in an Audi taxi that simply parked up with the rest of ‘the school run’ while the ‘parents’ did not emerge.

“D’ you recognise the number?” One of the police observers asked his colleague who was already checking the national database.

“Birmingham registration – owner known to the police.”

“There’s three men in the car, so I doubt if that’s a legitimate ‘school run’ vehicle. Here Erica, have a good look at the screen.”

Erica shuffled across the cramped space and studied the screen.

“It’s hard to tell with those tinted windows. Hey-up. One of them’s getting out.”

It only took a moment for Erica to give a frightened whimper as she recognised the man.

“That’s one. He’s one of the guards who held us prisoner in Nottingham then drove us to Dover. He beat the shit our of another girl before we were separated. I never saw her again.”

The third observer promptly brought up a file of faces on his screen and asked Erica to study them but it was Angela who recognised one of the girls before Erica.

“That’s Mo! She’s from Manchester. We were together in Birmingham and Nottingham.”

Having been reminded of the girl's name by Angela, Erica now remembered.

“I think that’s the one he beat up. We stopped in a motorway service station and she tried to escape. They caught her right in front of crowds of people at the car park and then took her away. I never saw her again. Nobody even tried to help her and she was crying for help. They just looked at her as though she was some sort of hysterical scum.”

The police officer fetched up a file confirming the site where her body had been found. It was not far from the motorway service station that Erica had now remembered as yet more memories previously buried by her trauma were released.

“She was wearing skinny jeans and a cream top.”

The officer promptly brought up crime scene pictures that confirmed Erica’s observations. Erica started horrified at the extent of Mo’s fatal head injuries then she promptly fainted.

“Jesus Jack! Bloody warn us before you pop up your bloody video nasties! Hasn’t this kid been through enough?!”

“Sorry Ted. But at least it confirms the girl’s statement. That bastard’s a killer and he’s just standing there as large as life.”

“Dammit, where are the ARU boys?”

“Don’t worry, the lads are here. Look.”

He changed screens to interconnect with the CPU traffic cameras to reveal the armed response unit already deploying discreetly at several junctions around the school.

“Sneaky bastards aren’t they?” Ted remarked admiringly.

“They’re waiting until the school kids have dispersed.” Jack added.

“They won’t have long,” Olivia added as she nursed Erica back to consciousness.

“That’s our bus about to leave,” Angie cautioned then added, “and that big bastard is getting back into their car,”

“They obviously know which bus is ours but they arrived too late to check if we had got on it.” Oliva added with relief evident in her voice.

Even as she spoke, a police van pulled out to block the Audi but it swerved desperately to avoid the trap. School children scattered in terror and one child was knocked sideways. Olivia was desperately relieved to see her get up and curse the Audi as it sped a few hundred yards before finally being trapped by a determined pincer movement between two more patrol cars.

In the van, both the police observers and the girls watched in horror as two of the men emerged and tried to hijack one of the patrol cars. Shots were fired and one of the unarmed officers collapsed to the floor. Children were scattering in all directions as ARU officers tried desperately to stop the gunmen without injuring any one of scores of children diving for cover.

It was now quite obvious that the rape-gang gunmen were trapped and quite desperate. Their car was pincered by the patrol cars and the driver had surrendered. The gunmen’s next move was to try and grab a child to use as a hostage but the children were too alert to be caught. Every time the gunmen popped up from behind any parked cars they were forced to duck down by the marksmen. And each time they ducked for cover; more children took the opportunity to get away.

One unforeseen benefit was that the children all wore school uniforms, or some personalised variant, but the dominant colour was the bright cherry-red jackets or jerseys that immediately identified them to the police marksmen. The slightest flash of a bright red coat or jersey reassured the police that the target was safe.

The police quickly realised this and the officer with the loud-hailer quickly instructed the kids to make their red coats or jerseys as obvious as possible. Realising this, the older kids additionally suggested that kids with both blazers and jerseys, shared out their clothes with kids who, on hearing gunfire, had dashed out from the school without grabbing coats. The plan worked and eventually there were only a couple of children who could not escape the gun-men’s field of fire. It remained for the police marksmen to prove their worth.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 28.

List of Characters.
Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution28.

As he arrived on the scene, Inspector John approached the commander of the ARU (Armed Response Unit.)
“Where are they now?”
They are either behind the silver Toyota with the bullet hole in the windscreen, or they’ve slid back through the garden gate of house number thirty two and they’re lying low behind the wall.
“Can they get out of the garden?”
“Only if they escape through the house. Trouble is that the front door is open and the problem is that brick built shed. The neighbour on this side says it’s for the old lady’s disability scooter and it blocks a clear view of the front door.”
“We’ve got men around the back obviously?”
“Two men. One’s in the back garden covering the kitchen door the other is in the lane covering the back bedroom windows. We don’t know if either of the gunmen is inside the house.
“So no escape then.”
“No.” The commander reassured him. “The problem is that big bastard who shot our traffic patrol officer has got a heavy calibre weapon. It’s already punched a hole through the brickwork of the house behind us.”
“Jeeze! Are you saying some sort of rifle?”
“Exactly. It’s not an automatic thank god, but it packs a hefty punch.”
“Can we match it?”

“There’s a couple of guys coming from Hereford with something suitable.”

“Damn! That’s at least an hour away.”

“Eh, no. They’re on a chopper. Fifteen to twenty minutes at most.”

“That’ll be the soldier-boys I suppose, we don’t have anything of that calibre.”

As he finished explaining there was a deep dull roar and another brick disintegrated not more than a yard from the commander’s head. Inspector John almost wet himself as he realised that if any officer exposed himself, the gun-man could pick him off through the brick walls. The only certain defence was the ancient stone built garden wall across the street. Getting that close would expose him to the second gunman with the hand weapon

With that another officer approached.

“We’ve got the whole street evacuated except for the house with the shed. We cannot ascertain if the old lady has gone out shopping or if she’s trapped in the house.

“Shit. We’ll just stay put for now unless he goes crazy with that cannon. How the hell can they get hold of a weapon like that?” The commander wondered.

“These guys are heavy mobsters.” Inspector John explained. “Mexican drug cartels, ISIS terrorists, you name it. They’re all into some sort of sex trafficking and guns are no object.”

“So what started this off?” The ARU commander asked.

“See that van over there with the media logo,” Inspector John explained.

“Yes.”

“It is one of our spy vans. We deployed it when we got the call from the girl. She’s one of our three our prime witnesses in the van along with our observation team. If we try to move it now, it might attract their attention.”
“I see,” the commander nodded, “and a bullet from that rifle could punch a huge hole right through the van and hit somebody. They’re panicked now and they shoot at anything that moves.”

The police decided to ‘sit it out’. The two children trapped in the gunmen’s field of fire were okay provided they stayed put. They were invisible to the gangsters and protected by the solid front garden stone wall of the old Victorian houses on that side of the street. Within the described time the ‘thwock – thwock – thwock of a Giant Chinook helicopter began to make itself audible as it approached low and landed on the school playing field. Within minutes the police were joined by a special forces squadron and they more or less handed over the operational control to the soldiers.

The lieutenant in command checked out the facts while his squadron spread out and encircled the house. From rear bedroom window of the house, the gangsters fired off a round at the departing chinook but it missed. The lieutenant turned thoughtfully towards the sound.

“That sounds like a fifty calibre. Were they thinking of a sniper attack?”

“Possibly,” Inspector John replied. “It tears bricks apart like tissue paper. All we can do is hide and wait until he exposes himself.”

The lieutenant nodded and spoke into his radio mike.

“He’s in the upstairs back bedroom, that’s where he got a shot at the chopper. Get one of the lads to tap a couple of heavies through the wall. It’ll give him something to consider. If we can scare him into the front bedroom he’ll be an easier target. We’ve got a good view from across the street.”

“Whatever you do Lieutenant, don’t let him put any bullets into the transit van. Our main witnesses are inside it.”

“Right. That’s easier said than done. He can see the van easily from inside the front bedroom but he’s invisible unless he steps up towards the window. I presume those witnesses are his targets.”

“Yes, but he doesn’t know they are there. As far as he knows, it’s just a van that was working in the street. It’s our spy van and there are six people in it. Three of ours and three kids who were victims of that bastard’s friends. One of the kids is an essential witness.”

The lieutenant’s face darkened as he assimilated the facts.

“Might be a good idea to expose him to the same terror as the kid endured.”

“That’s as maybe, but we’re not sure if the old lady is in the house. The neighbour thinks she might still be out shopping but he’s not sure.”

“They’d have used her as some sort of shield or hostage by now if she was there. It’s my guess she’s down the shops. Have any of the neighbours gone to look for her?”

“Yes, two of my officers have escorted a couple of the residents to the shops but they haven’t found her yet.”

“Well, if she’s in the house and she’s disabled she’s probably downstairs. Do any of the neighbours know her living habits; you know, sleeping downstairs and stuff.”

“The man in that house seems to know the most about her, I’ll ask him.”

“Wait a minute inspector.” The lieutenant cautioned him as he turned to the corporal accompanying him. “Turn your fifty onto the upper bedroom window and if he shows himself, shoot to miss but to frighten him.”

“Yes boss.”

“I presume you’d like this slime-ball alive if possible Inspector.”

“I thought you guys never took prisoners; shoot to kill and all that.”

“That’s if there’s any real danger. There’s only two here and your certain of that!”

“Two gunmen; yes.”

“The lieutenant spoke into his mike again.”

“McTavish, Callahan. To me ASAP small calibre point two -twos. Bit of tickling to do.”

“Yes boss.”

With a couple of brief hand signals the soldiers had positioned themselves to cover every aspect and awaited events. After a few minutes Inspector John got a call.

“The old lady’s been located in the café at Morrisons. We believe there’s nobody else in the house. Just the two gunmen.”

“Good. Corporal we’ll put a fifty through the window. We can see he’s not there so he must be hiding behind the wall. Take the silencer off so the sound will scare him. Use a tracer as well, just to add to the effect.”

The corporal shared a grin with his companions as they lined up their lighter weapons for the inevitable terrified reaction. The Lieutenant explained to the inspector.

“Even if he’s a hardened combat veteran, a tracer round exploding against the back wall will unsettle him. He’s bound to respond one way or the other.” Get ready men.”

Inspector John’s ears rang as the unsilenced fifty calibre put the tracer round through the window and burst against the back bedroom wall. The gunman responded by leaping to the window and firing off several wild fifty-calibre shots in all directions before lurching back with a scream.

“Got ‘im! Upper left arm. That’ll make him think.” McTavish grinned.

“Good shooting trooper,” the lieutenant congratulated him as he turned to the officer with the bull-horn. “Tell him to put down his weapons or we’ll shoot to kill.”

“We don’t want him dead Lieutenant,” Inspector John repeated. “We want information from him.”

“He doesn’t know that.” The lieutenant reassured the inspector as he spoke again to his men. “Jones, Ellis, prepare to go in as we fire a couple more tracers into the bedroom.”

Inspector John saw two dark shapes sneak up to the garden wall then dash into the front door as the corporal fired off two more carefully timed tracer rounds into the bedroom window thus giving the men covering fire. He turned to speak to the Lieutenant but the officer had disappeared.

“Where’s he gone?” He asked the corporal with the heavy rifle.

“They’ve caught the other gunman with the pistol behind the house. The lieutenant’s gone to sort it while I cover the front. Just sit tight inspector.”

Inspector John knew better than to question the corporal as the seasoned soldier instructed McTavish and Callahan to slip around the parked cars and collect the two terrified children behind the garden wall. As they slipped away there was a loud thump from the front bedroom and the corporal paused as he listened into his headphone.

“Stun grenade?” Inspector John queried.”

The corporal nodded.

“Yes, they’ve got him.” Ellis put a round in his leg as Jones threw the stun grenade. The bastard’s still too dizzy to respond.”

“That’ll teach the bastard.” Inspector John sagged with relief as his sergeant tapped him on the shoulder.

“In the van sir. When that bastard fired off those random rounds, one of them hit the van.”

Inspector John’s face greyed with concern as the sergeant put his radio to broadcast for the police team and the corporal to hear.

“There’s a nasty piece of bullet in the white girl’s derriere and the com’s operator has got steel splinters in his face and neck. Two ambulances have been called.”

“Which hospital?” Inspector John checked.

“Gloucester General.”

“Well Inspector, That’s my boss on our radio.. We’re finished here,” The corporal declared as he broke down his weapon and boxed it up “Hope your witnesses stay safe until court. Those bastards seem pretty determined.”

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 29

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With
Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.

Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 29.

Inspector John was just completing the despatch of Erica and the Police communications observer to Gloucester General Hospital by ambulance when he got a call on his mobile.

“Inspector John here, who’s that?”

“It’s Lieutenant ‘EX’, the SAS platoon commander.”

Inspector John smiled to himself as he recognised the officer’s obsession with secrecy.

“Oh! Hello again lieutenant, what can I do you for?”

“Bit of a complication I’m afraid. Chummy’s leg wound is a bit more serious than we first thought. Femoral artery was nicked and he’s bleeding internally more seriously than we first thought.”

“How serious?”

“Well with the rush to get the wounded patrol officer to ER, there’s a shortage of ambulances. Chummy’s going to have to wait about ten minutes before we can get a suitable vehicle to take him. It’s a serious bleed I’m afraid and while our platoon medic is pretty good, we really should get him to A&E ASAP.”

“Damn! I can’t afford to lose him without first getting some intelligence from him and the two ambulances here are just leaving.”

“I’ll see if I can get my colonel to release the Chinook to take him to Bristol.”

“That’ll work!” Gasped Inspector John thankfully. “How long will it take and if you need authority I can already declare it an emergency if that helps.”

Having agreed tactics there were some brief exchanges over various radios then Inspector John was grateful to see the Chinook rapidly ascend from behind the houses where the school playing field provided an excellent airfield. He looked up with satisfaction writ large across his face as the monster Chinook ‘thwocked’ low over the houses and disappeared quickly towards Bristol.

He turned to the ARU commander.

“Can you have a couple of your men follow the ambulances to Gloucester. I’ve no idea yet if there are more of these bastards waiting to ambush the ambulances.”

“Already in hand inspector. D’ you want us to guard the girl while she’s in Gloucester hospital?”

“Oh shit, yes! Thanks for reminding me, in all the trouble that issue slipped my mind.. Definitely guard Erica until we’ve got some idea of how much these thugs know.”

“Well, they know what school she goes to; that must be bad.”

“It certainly is, well in the first instance it is. We’ll have to have to see how things pan out.”

“Are you off to Bristol then?”

“Yes. First things first. That army lieutenant will be keen to get his squad clear of this business now it’s over. The last things those guys want is publicity and they certainly won’t take kindly to having to hang around the hospital in their combat masks and kit. It’ll be blues and twos for me down to Bristol while my sergeant tidy’s up here.”

After some hectic radio traffic, Inspector John relaxed momentarily as the police car hurtled down to the Bristol A&E. After clearing his head he contacted Sergeant Bridie and Barbara down at Canal cottage. They talked long and hard about what arrangements needed to be made.

ooo000ooo

When Inspector John arrived at the Bristol Hospital there was uproar because the huge chinook helicopter had been too big to land on the hospital’s roof-top helipad. Instead the gunman was strapped to a steel basket-stretcher and lowered hastily down to the surprised medical team. The lieutenant had insisted that they accompany the wounded man right up to the doors of the theatre and then they had taken station around the theatre block until Inspector John had personally arrived to organise the pre warned Bristol police who had arrived before him but were uncertain of what was going on.
Nor was the SAS lieutenant inclined to divulge much information except to allow the newly arrived sergeant access to the doors of the theatre.

“I can’t tell you anything sergeant but a Gloucestershire police inspector is coming by car from the crime scene and then we leave it to him. For now only medical staff who that surgeon and the hospital staff can vouch for are allowed in the theatre.”

“Can you give me some idea Lieutenant. I’m working in the bloody dark here.”

“Chummy in there shot one of your unarmed patrol officers with a nine millimetre pistol and it’s touch and go. He also had a go with a fifty millimetre sniper's rifle so nobody's much pleased about that. The police patrol officer is in Birmingham Queen Elizabeth Hospital and I have not heard the outcome.

He then fired off the 50 calibre rifle again and wounded a teenaged girl plus another officer observer. The inspector has put me wise about the whole business and I’m bound to secrecy. Just get your men organised, there’s no knowing what Chummy’s cronies might try.

“Bloody hell! I’d better organise armed back up.”

“Until things are sorted out, that will be a good thing." The lieutenant advised then added; "some of the Gloucester Armed Response unit are accompanying the inspector in their blues and two’s. Others were despatched to protect the girl. That’s all I am telling you. The inspector will advise you when he gets here.”

The sergeant nodded sagely then spoke to Inspector John on the police radio band. The lieutenant remained silent except for a few brief words to his troopers on their radios and to thank the nurse for the tea and biscuits.

By seven p.m., the pandemonium was over. The SAS squadron were back at their base and the police guard had been organised both in Gloucester for Erica and in Bristol to guard the gunman. Inspector John had left the initial interrogation to the specialist police team while the gunman was still in a state of stress and fear. He was more likely to make mistakes in those early hours of fear and pain. To reassure Olivia, Angela and Lola, Inspector John slept the night in a spare berth on the narrow-boat at Canal Cottage.

The following morning a very sore, noisy and angry Erica was discharged from the hospital but both police officers required more intensive care. In the calmer hours of the following day discussions were started concerning Erica’s fate and increased protection.

Bearing in mind that the identification of Erica and her school attendance had also compromised Olivia and Angela’s security; it was concluded that moving all the girls to another safe house would also prove to be fruitless now that Erica’s face had ‘gone viral’.

The police decided to prepare a protection plan that would also serve as a trap for any assassins attempting to kill or kidnap any of the girls. Around the table, despite her difficulty sitting, Erica proved to be a very pragmatic and insightful contributor.

“If you speed up the building work to expand the cottage, can you not hide the extra police amongst the work force. When the planning inspector was talking to the social workers and the police, he seemed disposed to pass the plans without any objections.”

“He is young lady and your idea about using police officers masquerading as builders is already in hand. We’re organising a complete team of officers who have previous building skills learned before they joined the police. The pay they earn as builders will cover the extra policing costs to protect you girls.” The Birmingham police superintendent revealed.

“You mean the money we pay to have the house built will end up as police overtime payments.” Erica objected.

“No the money you pay from your compensations will be to pay for the house expansion and improvements which you girls will inherit when I pass on!” Bab’s corrected her. “Your compensation will be better secured in bricks and mortar than bullet-proof vests and Kevlar knickers. You’ll be getting those anyway.”

“What are Kevlar knickers?” Lola wondered aloud.

“Special underwear woven from Kevlar fibres that resist splinter penetrations from bullets and explosions.” Sergeant Bridie explained. “They were developed to protect soldiers from roadside bombs in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

All the girls snorted with amusement on learning about such protective equipment.

“That’ll cause some funny looks when we change for gym!” Angela added. “What do they look like?”

“They resemble long-legged ‘shapewear’ only slightly thicker than ordinary shapewear. Much like cycling shorts.”

Bridie brought up the website and the girls gasped when they saw them.

“Oh how very sexy!” Olivia cackled, “and what about the bras. I suppose we’ll look like Brunehilda from ‘Das Ring’ by Vagner. The girls will absolutely rave over that when we change for gym.”

“Not to mention the words ‘passion-killers’ being bandied about.” Angela added.

“Better that than torn to bits by shrapnel.” Bab’s remarked soberly.

The mood changed at Babs’s words and they quickly fell to discussing tactics and strategies but the over-riding realisation for the girls was that they would half to accept the status of becoming ‘live-bait’ if they were to remain living at the Canal Cottage.

Lola, ever the more practical girl, asked about man-power and costs.

“Those at least are being covered by special funding,” the Birmingham superintendent revealed. “This case has gone international and funds have been contributed by other interested parties.”

“What parties?” Lola pressed.

“Foreign governments young lady. The information you’ve supplied has proved to be priceless and this case has opened a can of worms from Mexico through USA, and Europe to the Middle East. It looks as though there is a Chinese connection as well. Sex trafficking invariably runs in close parallel with drugs and terrorism. The Dutch and the Danes are despatching officers to liaise with our forces. That’ll mean extra manpower and feet on the ground. Sadly Erica, it means more pictures and questions for you to identify and answer. It also means you’ll be asked to attend courts in Copenhagen and Amsterdam; and that’s just for starters.”

Erica pulled a wearisome frown and shifted uncomfortably on her cushion. Her injured bum was sore.

“Not quite the way I wanted travel abroad.” She sighed.

“Better than your last voyage darling,” Bab’s sympathised.

The meeting continued into the late afternoon by which time Erica was getting tired and asked to go to bed. The girls were relieved of any further attendance while the police officers and other interested parties thrashed out the operational details. It broke up at six p.m., and the girls were pleased to learn that four police officers had now been appointed to do guard duties and they would be stationed on the narrow-boat behind the cottage. Things were going to be cramped until the extension to Canal cottage was completed.

“If we are to be bait then we’re gonna need a bigger boat!” Olivia joked as they sat down to a large communal take-away.

It was the first genuinely humorous thing anybody had heard all day.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 30.

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian girl fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution Chapter 30. ©

“Yes your honour.” Inspector John replied, “we do.”

“Very well. You may detain the suspect for sixty days for questioning.” The Judge intoned.

“But your honour. Are we not allowed to represent our even interview our client?” The Defence Barrister pleaded.

“On the basis of the information presented by the police and indeed the audio-video evidence put before me, I must conclude that there is a serious terrorist element associated with this very alarming case. The evidence presented by the police officers from Germany, Denmark, Turkey and Holland serve to reinforce my conclusions.

Furthermore, I have also received evidence from her Majesty’s Armed forces ballistics department, that the heavy assault rifle used by the assailant was used during terrorist associated incidents in both Syria and Iraq. The striations on the bullets compare exactly to bullets recovered from terrorist victims in Iraq and some of the mud deposits on the body of the gun match identically those with mud found in the upper Euphrates river!

There is little if any doubt that the weapon was somehow transported from one of those countries to the United Kingdom. I am convinced that there are elements of this case associated with terrorism and therefore I am disallowing any advocacy or representation of either individual until all the police and her majesty’s armed forces have completed their inquiries to their own satisfaction.
That is all.”

As the court stood, the defence barrister let out a short expostulation of frustration when it was made abundantly clear that neither powerful political connections not diplomatic immunity was going to get their man free of the grip of the police.

He turned to the several people behind him and wagged his head before explaining.

“No doubt about it! He’s being held for two months without charge.”

“But that’s illegal isn’t it.” One of the gentleman protested; don’t they have to be charged within a couple of days.”

“Read your recent history sir.” The Barrister shrugged. “If terrorism is deemed to be connected, they can hold a suspect for a lot longer.”

Outside the courtroom the police were secretly videoing all the people gathered around the defence barrister. It was almost certain that somebody amongst the group, would be connected to the crimes and possibly even the supply of the assault rifle. Back in the police canteen the police team were chatting casually about the case when Inspector John appeared with a smaller figure who’s head was covered by a close fitting woolly ‘bobble hat and a woolly scarf across her face. He turned to the girl and grinned.

“D’ you want to say thank you to the team?”

“There’s a lot of them.” Erica observed as she unwound the scarf. “Are those the foreign police?” She asked as she gave a friendly finger wave to everybody.

They made various friendly responses to Erica as Inspector John re-iterated for not the first time.

“It’s a big case Erica. You heard the judge declare that the rifle had been used in either Iraq or Syria.”

“Will I ever be safe?” She asked the inspector.

“Hopefully, yes, once these bastards have been put away. By the way; there’s a few foreign police officers who want to give you a special thanks because your evidence has helped them trap a few very bad boys indeed.”

“I know, the Danes, Dutch, Turks and Germans. Are they here?”

“Yes over there, go and talk to them while I get the coffees and a bite to eat.”

When he re-joined Erica she was describing the wound in her butt and how she got it. In addition to the sympathetic chuckles, there were offers of thanks from the officers as they explained just how wide-spread the case was in Northern Europe and how much Erica’s contributions had helped. While they drank their coffees and ate their snacks Erica observed.

“I just cant believe how my passing through Europe in a couple of weeks has opened up the case.”

“Yes young lady,” Han’s the German Officer explained. “They got a bit too confident and shot themselves in the foot by advertising you to clients through their websites. The backgrounds to one or two of the pictures put you in certain locations and your confirmations of the dates ties a lot of evidence together. That plus your identification of some of the big players has nailed it. The bastards were too obsessed with your beauty and couldn’t resist associating with you.”

“Yeah; don’ I know it!” Erica reflected sombrely, “I wouldn’t have called it associating.”

Hans paused apologetically before adding.

“Sorry Erica. I Can only try to imagine what you’ve been through. Believe me, we are truly grateful for what you have done for us. It’s hardened up the evidence sufficiently for all of us to break this case and the gangs. That’s why we’re here also to contribute to your protection. The more hands and guns, the better. We all know about your British cultural denunciation of guns but your experiences with that criminal outside your school has demonstrated the extent of the danger you are in. Your evidence is invaluable to us in Europe as well as your police.”

“Here – here,” the other European police applauded as Erica crimsoned with embarrassment and busied herself with her food.

It was early evening when Inspector John and two ARU officers finally brought Erica back to Canal cottage. They arrived as the conversation was centering around ‘whether the girls could remain at the cottage. Fortunately Inspector John was able to reassure the girls and Babs.

“There’s funds enough thanks to the European connections. The officers that Erica met again today, are staying until the case is closed. She is every bit as vital to their casework as she is to ours. Furthermore, the legal process has been speeded up so that the girl’s schooling and education won’t be too severely compromised. It looks like the case will be tried early this summer at the Old Bailey then the European trials will follow later through the summer. There’ll be a lot of travelling through northern Europe for Erica and Angela particularly.”

“Lucky Bitches!” Lola lamented as she added,” while I’ll be in hospital getting done!”

“Any more news about the cottage extension?” Olivia asked.

“They start next Monday and estimate three months to completion. Sorry I forgot to mention that in all the hurly-burly of today in court.” Inspector John replied before finally adding. “And they’re hiring another narrow-boat to accommodate the European police. It’s being moored in front of the cottage so there’ll be fortifications on all sides.”

“What about school? Angie pressed. “I don’t want to miss out on lessons, I was doing quite well with languages.”

“The school have agreed. There’ll be armed female police officers accompanying you to school every day and if the threat is deemed worse they’ll even accompany you into lessons.”

“That’ll help with the German lessons!” Erica chuckled. “I could get quite good at German if Hans teaches me. He's dishy!”

“Oy, bitch! Your there to learn German, not shag a German!” Olivia hooted with mirth.”

“Class discipline should improve then!” Bab’s opined sarcastically to add to the improved mood of levity.

For the first night in several months, the mood around dinner was happy and enjoyable. The girls felt they could see light at the end of the tunnel.
ooo000ooo

The following Monday Olivia and Angela were ripped out of their sleep by the snarl of a JCB as it pulled up outside the cottage and started biting away at the ground next to their gable window.

Olivia snapped bolt upright with alarm and cursed fearfully at first.

“What the fu- oh! It’s the builders. Bloody hell it’s not even daylight yet!” She protested as she squinted at the intensely bright halogen head-lights.

Angie blinked sleepily as the digger shed an intensely bright loom into their bedroom.

“You’ d better close the curtains Ollie! You’re showing your boobs!”

“Christ! It’s only just turned six and it’s still dark!” Olivia complained as she reached out and tugged the curtains closed.
Until that moment, the remoteness of the cottage had obviated the need for privacy, now things had changed. With that, Erica appeared sleepily in the bedroom doorway.

“Next bloody thing they’ll be knocking on the door asking for tea.”

By now the whole house was awake and lights were being turned on in both narrow boats as well. Reluctantly the girls washed, dressed and stumbled sleepily downstairs. After switching on the kettle Olivia peered out through the kitchen window.

“There must half a dozen out there. It’s like an ant-heap.”

“We're gonna need a bigger kettle. Hope they’ve brought their own milk and sugar; can’t see Bab’s budget feeding this lot.” Lola remarked as she entered the house after spending the night on the narrow-boat behind the cottage. Bridie followed her in and they gratefully took the mugs proffered to them by Olivia.

“Looks like a trip to the supermarket for me and Bab’s later, once we’ve got you three off to school.”

“I can help if Bab’s isn’t up to it.” Lola offered.

“Good idea girl. It’ll be a lesson in house-keeping for you.”

“Whadd’ya mean lessons in housekeeping!” Lola protested. “I have to shop for food in college.”

“No you don’t, you’re living 'hall' in for the first year!”

“Shit when did you learn about Cambridge?”

“I did go to uni kid,” Bridie explained, “albeit not exactly Cambridge but halls of residence are the same all over. Anyway, your offer is gratefully accepted. Now to business; don’t forget you girls; this morning you’re going in to school by police car, things will be a bit chaotic at first until the school get’s used to having armed coppers in the classrooms.”

“That’ll teach that stupid Max Barker not to go waving his fucking camera around in people’s faces in future!” Erica gloated. “Coppers in the classroom, the kids are gonna love that!. It’s getting worse than America!”

It did not take long for the girls to join Sergeant Bridie in the unmarked car and when they arrived at the school, Bridie nodded towards the innocuous looking car just outside the ‘no parking’ road markings.

“You’ll have recognised Inspector John of course and that other lady is your armed guard. She’ll be very discreet unless something untoward develops and when you get on the bus in future there’ll already be a guard sitting next to the driver.”

“I’ll be truly glad when all this shit is over,” Erica lamented. “When did you say the court hearings start?”

“At the earliest the last week of May but more probably the first week of June.” Bridie replied.

“And it’s only just the middle of January!” Olivia sagged back into the seat, “roll on the summer!”

“Out you get girls. Inspector John and I are meeting the headmaster this morning. I’ll see you at lunch.”

The girls emerged to a couple of curious stares but not much other interest because the busses had not yet started to arrive. In the classroom their form teacher was already chatting to the armed police-woman about what to do if an attack occurred. Their seating had already been arranged into the optimum pattern established at the beginning of term. Eventually other children arrived, noted the uniformed police officer with a suspicious bulge under her combat jerkin, and promptly took their seats rather quietly. The headmaster had already delivered the ‘pep-talk’ and consequently the mood was subdued.

Once everybody was seated the form mistress explained the drill and very few questions were asked.

Max Barker stupidly asked if they had to hand their phones in and received a short sharp ‘YES’ followed by a further warning.

“It was your actions with your phone on the bus that caused all this, so you should know better than to ask such a question. WPC Daley here will take possession of all phones until home time so hand them all in now.”

She was impressed by the speedy response without any grumbles from the kids and she turned to the WPC.

“Pity you couldn’t stay here permanently; I’ve never seen such an obedient class.”

The students exchanged embarrassed grins and soon dispersed to their various classes.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New-year’s Resolution 31.

List of Characters.
Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an
attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian
fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.
Maxwell Barker Boy with camera-phone who posted Erica’s picture on Facebook

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 31.

On the bus journey home the mood was one of subdued curiosity as other children from other classes and years kept glancing at the armed policewoman.

Her presence had finally brought home to the students the seriousness of Max Barker’s stupid stunt with his phone and face book. Finally the bus set the three girls and their guard down at the last stop above the lane down to Canal Cottage and the four arrived at the cottage as the ‘builders/police guards’ were finishing for the night.

“Gosh! Look at that.” Olivia remarked as she stood at the edge of the foundation trench. “They’ve already excavated the footings, where’s all the earth gone?”

“Over here, they’ve made a sort of peninsular into the marsh.” Angela observed as she walked behind the cottage and across the moored narrow-boat.”

After checking out the development, they went inside the cottage to find Bab’s and Sergeant Bridie studying the plans.

“Is that what it’ll look like?” Erica wondered.

“Pretty much so,” Bab’s replied. The idea is to have the extension blend in harmoniously with the old cottage stone.

After eating dinner the girls retreated to their various sleeping arrangements which had become even more complex now that there were two narrow boats housing four armed police in addition to sergeants Bridie and Brian. Arrangements were going to be crowded until the extension was completed. Erica’s decision to share Lola’s bed was now accepted as it made the logistics of protection easier to have the girls all together inside the stone cottage.

That first night, as Erica spooned into Lola, she asked; “D’ you think the gang is casing the joint to try and find a weak point?”

“Possibly babes,” Lola replied, “but so long as we don’t wander off alone, we should be safe. It’s only until the trial in June. Now cwtch up and go to sleep.”

Erica did not need much persuading and she inveigled her derriere tighter against Lola’s tummy to share the warmth. It was still frosty for the cottage was in the grip of winter and during the night it snowed – again.

ooo000ooo

“Will the builders be working this morning?”

“Probably not,” Bab’s opined. “They’ll have trouble getting the mixer lorry down the lane unless they use the small one and that’ll take about four journeys.”

“Which will tear up the lane and the towpath,” Lola added. “I worked on a building site the summer before last and builder’s lorries make a hell of a mess.”

With that Bridie’s phone rang and she declared the news.

“No building today. Only reliefs for the guards. They’ll be here at ten but we’ll be gone to school by then.”

“What in this!” Olivia almost screeched.

“We’ve got the Land-rover and two armed guards. You can’t afford to miss school. You’ve missed too much already., especially Erica.”

“I’d prefer to be in school anyway, better than sitting here twiddling my thumbs.” Erica declared.”

“Damned Land-rover,” Olivia mumbled, “it’s just too bloody useful.”

“You won’t be saying that next month when you’re old enough to get your provisional license.” Lola grinned. “Especially with me back in uni.”
Olivia fell silent at the thought of learning to drive and she looked hopefully at Bab’s who nodded with a smile.

“Yes, there’s funds enough for you to have driving lessons. Your foster-care money has seen to that. Same goes for Angie and Erica on their birthdays as well.”

At this news, the mood around the table improved appreciably and preparations for school were quickly completed. The girls were looking forward to another snowy adventure driving the Land-rover up the slippery snow-covered lane.

They arrived to find the school open but almost empty as many families had decided not to attend because of the snow. Not everybody owned a sturdy four-by-four set of wheels. As a consequence they received additional attention from what few staff had also made it in.

The snow-storm continued through most of the morning and when they arrived home that afternoon, they were again forced to leave the Land-rover at the top of the steep lane. Bridie phoned Bab’s and confirmed the safety password in their conversations and the girls walked down the slippery lane in snow over a foot deep. Never was the heat from the kitchen stove more welcome as fingers and toes were toasted gratefully while hot drinks were consumed.

Over the next week, the snow slowly thawed and the school term settled down to its normal routine save for the police escort business. Lola went back up to Cambridge, Olivia started driving lessons and nothing untoward happened to cause any concern.

Eventually Bridie received the dates for the trial and the tensions increased towards the dates as everybody realised that the girls would be at a specific location at an exact time.

“Don’t worry Erica.” Inspector Jon assured her. “You’ll be well protected and you’ll not be expected to stand on the court steps to face a crowd. You’ll arrive in one of the armoured vans but it won’t be a prison van. There will be a lot of armoured prison vans around so yours won’t stand out.”

“How many are there on trial?” Erica asked

“Thirty six for the first trial but we haven’t completed investigations for the follow-on trial yet. There may be another twenty or so in that one.”

“And then there’s the European trials.” Erica added thoughtfully. “I’ll be giving evidence until next bloody Christmas!”
Inspector John nodded sympathetically.

“You’ll be well looked after girl. Society owes you that!”

“Except they can’t cure my HIV!”

Inspector John and Sergeant Bridie’s face clouded slightly as that issue surfaced while Bridie gave her a hug and replied softly.

“Sorry love. Nobody can apologise enough for that. Let’s hope there’ll be a cure for that someday.”

Because the school terms were so uneventful and the police presence had become ‘the norm’ all three girls made good progress with their various academic endeavours.. By the time the GCSE exams came around the girls were actually looking forward to them. Erica particularly had come on exceptionally well because when she was preparing her various and numerous statements for the forthcoming trials, she received a lot of coaching from the German policeman who was handling the biggest European case in Hamburg. Erica’s German, English and geography improved enormously as he discussed her various travels while being hired out by the kidnap gangs.

Eventually as the summer grew hotter, and the cottage extension neared completion, the date for the court trial was set to accommodate the girls GCSE exams. Once all their exams were completed by May/June a legal dispensation was issued releasing the girls from attending school between completion of exams and the end of the academic term. The three girls and Bab’s were sequestered in a secure location in Birmingham then transported daily to court by armed escort.

By this time, the girls were sufficiently involved in the case to know that the security endeavours by the police were not some sort of over-the-top games. They all knew the risks to be real.

This was made abundantly clear when, on the very first morning of the trial, a heavy calibre bullet-hole appeared in court-house front door less than a foot from Sergeant Bridie’s head. The assassin had obviously mistaken Bridie’s strawberry blond hair for Erica’s ash blond tresses.

The sniping rifle was silenced and it was several seconds before the crowds realised what had happened. Then pandemonium broke out after the bullet had smashed through the heavy wooden door and embedded itself into the bottom of the security detector just inside the hall.
Erica was of course ignorant of the immediate events because she had been slipped into the building by a side door. On learning of the attack, the judge immediately suspended the hearings then ordered a platoon of armed SAS troopers to bolster the armed police guard. When the case was resumed the following week, the courthouse resembled a fortress.

On realising the dangers associated with trying to reach the witness during the trial, the rape gang decided to try and kill the witness by locating where the girls were being ensconced and somehow bombing the house. There plan might have worked except for the sharp eyes of the SAS sergeant who was secretly monitoring the apartment block even while Bab’s and the girls were attending court. Two women were caught trying to pass as cleaners while secreting the bomb in the foyer of the apartment block. The sergeant had deemed it strange that the pair had simply entered the block then emerged only a few moments later without obviously having even gone into the lifts.

He had alerted the police monitoring the street cameras and the women had been tracked back to the car where the two trigger-men were waiting to detonate the bomb – probably when the girls returned from court.

Pre-prepared protection plans were enabled and the two trigger men were shot through the windscreen of the car before they realised they had been rumbled. The two females were arrested before they could get to the bomb trigger-phone that had fallen into the foot-well of the front passenger seat. The sniper’s rifle was also found in the boot of the car.
“Shades of Afghanistan!” The SAS sergeant declared when he re-joined the troopers who had done the shooting.
Intensive investigations eventually connected the murder squad to two of the high ranking defendants in the second trial even while the first trial was coming to a conclusion.

Erica’s evidence had proved essential to securing the convictions in the first trial and the police had high hopes of securing the convictions in the second trial despite determined efforts to secure diplomatic immunity for the two.

Murder, kidnap and rape are crimes that are not covered by diplomatic immunity.

After the first trial was completed, the girls felt they could relax but their hopes were soon to be allayed. Even as they left the courtroom, Inspector John met them in the armoured van and reluctantly wiped the smiles off their faces.

“We’re certainly not out of the wood yet girls. The big boys have now realised there is no way to bribe or corrupt the courts so it is my belief that they will make more determined efforts to have a go at you between now and the second trial. I believe you to be in greater danger now than ever because they will be getting desperate. There is also the diplomatic/political angle. Some of the defendants are very well connected to certain royal families and political dynasties. It could get messy.”

“Thanks inspector, Erica grumbled despondently.” Just what I needed to make my day. This should have been one of the happiest days of my life. I’ve got requital and compensation for my injuries. Now you’ve just ruined it.”

“I know Erica, and I’m deeply sorry but you have to be aware. When all this is over, we might have to give you a new identity.”

“Oh thanks. Does that mean I have to leave the Canal Cottage.?”

“Hopefully not, though I can't promise anything on that front. If you do have to use witness protection you’ll get to choose your own new name lust like Lola has.”

“Yeah. Except that I like my name Erica and I like Canal cottage.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 32

List of Characters.
Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an
attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian
fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.
Maxwell Barker Boy with camera-phone who posted Erica’s picture on Facebook

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution Chapter 32.

The judge, who had reserved the second trial to his court because of the multiple connections to the first trial, granted the girls and several other plaintiffs a fortnight’s respite from their ordeals. To avoid any publicity somehow trickling down to the location of Canal cottage, Bab’s and Inspector John organised a vacation. Nobody was living at the cottage save for the ‘builders’ who were renovating the building when some press came asking questions about the place.

“No sir,” was the only response the press reporter got from the builders.

“It belongs to a family as far as I know, but they’re vacationing abroad for the summer while they’re having the house extended.”

“Oh I don’t know sir, you’d have to ask the architects that, I’m just the site foreman.

“Their office is in Bristol I believe. No, my boss would know that but he’s on a short vacation as well, at present. I can show you the plans but that’s all we’ve got to carry on with. I handle the materials supply The Owners; no I can’t help you there, they haven’t been around since April. As I said, extended holiday I believe. I think they said America. I think the father works over there sometimes.”

The press-man got little joy or help from the ‘builder’ despite the foreman appearing helpful and courteous. However, the police were alerted to the fact that the cottage may have been compromised and steps were taken to keep Bab’s and the girls away from the cottage until the second trial was commenced and they could once again be ensconced in the hotel. After returning from the holiday they were booked straight into the secure hotel again.

The second trial commenced on the following Monday and Once again, Erica was sworn in to testify. She spent a gruelling three days giving as much evidence as she could remember and also confirming much evidence that the various European police forces had painstakingly gathered.

“Now Miss Erica, have you ever seen this man?” The prosecuting barrister asked.
The barrister handed Erica several photographs then passed around copies to the jury.. Erica studied the pictures then frowned.

“No, not to speak to but I recognise his face from some pictures on my second phone. The one that got cracked and I had to transfer the simm card to my old first phone from when I was first sent to the home.”

The barrister started uncertainly as he grasped the portent of Erica’s answer.

“What! Are you saying you’ve got another phone!”

Erica paled with nervousness before nodding.

“Yes, I’ve had three altogether.

“Yes, but the second one got smashed. The only thing I recovered was the Simm card but it doesn’t show things very clearly. I tried it in my first phone then I shoved that old phone into my bag. It’s been there ever since I never thought about the old Simm card, to tell the truth I’d forgotten all about it. The pictures on my present phone were so hurtful and made me so angry that I forgot about the old Simm.”

The Barrister immediately approached the judge and had hurried conference. He then turned to Erica.

“Have you still got that Simm Card and your old first phone?”

“Probably.” Erica hesitated as she realised where the questioning was going.

“And where would it be young lady?”

“Probably with all my old junk. The stuff I brought from the unit after my trauma.”

“And where would that junk be now?”

Erica turned nervously to the judge.

“Should I answer that sir?”

The judge did a double take. Erica – the prime witness, had never actually addressed the judge once in the first trial. All she had done was answer questions put by the counsels. That evidence alone had been enough to secure the convictions. The judge glanced kindly over his glasses.

“Firstly young lady, you must address me as ‘your honour’ but that’s a simple mistake. Now why do you not want to produce this uuhm Simm Card.”

Erica hesitated.

“Well first your ho – your honour it’s got some early pictures of me in the home before I was taken and secondly the Simm Card is uuuhm, were I used to live before this new safe house thing. I’d rather not say where the old house was.”

Street-wise to the last, Erica was savvy enough to avoid all reference or implication to Canal Cottage in the present tense.

As the judge recognised the girl’s distress he invited both counsels to approach the Bench.

“Do you understand what the girl is trying to say gentlemen?”

“Yes your honour.” The prosecuting counsel advised. “I believe she knows where the Simm is but she does not want to reveal that location to the court because it will compromise her future safety. Might I invite Inspector John’s opinion?”

The judge turned to the defence counsel.

“Have you any objections to suspending proceedings until this other Simm card is produced?”

“If it confirms the facts your honour, then by all means let’s find this Simm card.”

The judge motioned to Erica to approach the bench and she almost slinked guiltily forward.

“Now young lady. You have been very remiss in failing to produce this card but I am prepared to accept that it was a genuine oversight. Do you definitely know where it is and can you produce it.”

“Your honour, I don’t want to reveal my safe house but I can produce it if nobody knows I’m going there. If Inspector John and Sergeant Bridie are prepared to take me to the place I can get it.”

“Very well young lady. Go back to the witness box while I discuss this with the police inspector.”

Erica returned to the witness box and played nervously with her hair as she watched the judge, the barristers and the police officers hammer out a safe way to get Erica to the safe house. Eventually there were nods of agreement and the judge adjourned the case until the following Monday. The court usher intoned –

“All Rise,” and the judge glanced towards Erica before leaving.

Inspector John reassured Erica that she was not in any serious trouble but they had to move quickly.

“I want you out of this town before anybody has realised you’ve gone. Quickly now.”

“Why don’t we use the soldier’s helicopter?” Erica wondered.

“Because everybody and his dog would know where you’ve gone. You could not announce it more loudly than by landing a bloody chopper.”

“Oh! Of course! Stupid me. Who’s coming with us?”

“Nobody, just You me and Sergeant Bridie. I presume you were alluding to Bab’s place with all that innuendo and hyperbola.”

Erica nodded as she was led to a none-descript van and quickly smuggled away.

In the Van, Inspector John made things quite clear.

“Right. You’d better not be messing with us Erica. Does this Memory Card exist?”

“Yes. I referred to it as a Simm card to throw any watchers off.”

“And it’s down at Canal cottage?”

“Yes. Why would I lie?”

“Why were you so reluctant to tell us of this earlier?”

“There’s some pictures. Some other pictures.”

“And?” Bridie pressed sympathetically as Inspector john recognised the need for a woman’s touch.

“They’re from in the children’s home, before I was kidnapped. I and several other kids are naked.in them.”

“Are Olivia or Angela in them?”

“No, it was after the pictures were taken that I ran away.”

“Who took the pictures?”

Jason and Tyson.

Inspector John exchanged looks with Bridie as he sighed.

“It just get’s worse. How old where you then Erica?” Bridie pressed.

“Twelve, going on for thirteen. In one set of the pictures, Tyson is fucking me and Jason took the pictures. Then it was the other way around.”

“And all this is on the old phone memory-card as well as after you were kidnapped?”

Erica nodded and sagged despondently into the seat.

“I just don’t want the people in the court to see all the stuff. I heard one of the barristers say something about an ‘unreliable witness’ during the last case. If they see this stuff then I’m stuffed and the whole case might be stuffed. What will the judge think?”

Bridie reached around and gave Erica a reassuring hug.

“You’re the victim here Erica, you’re not on trial.”

“Yeah but on my camera I’m laughing and giggling when they fucked me. I was high on coke! To be honest, I only remember bits of it but when I opened my camera the next morning, well, I was frightened.”

“Why didn’t you delete it?”

“Jason and Tyson had it on their phones as well. I think they only deleted it when the ‘old bill’ came knocking. By that time my first phone was broken and I was already a gonner – you know – kidnapped; a prossie and a junkie. They already had me up in Nottingham by then, or maybe Amsterdam. I’m still not sure of the exact dates.”

I’d forgotten all about it until they started asking me about that guy in the photograph. He’s some sort of Arabian big-wig isn’t he?”

“He’s one of King Saud’s many grandsons. The king’s got hundreds of grandsons and great grandsons. But they all have sinecures in the KSA. You know, jobs for life, or at least until there’s a revolution or something.”

“Is he powerful, you know lots of heavies and things?”

“It’s always difficult to tell, things are very secretive in Saudi.” Bridie added before asking.

“You are quite certain you know where this memory card is?”

“Yes. Exactly.”

Bridie gave Erica another reassuring hug as she smiled.

“Good! If the evidence is there, then you’re in the clear. And as to the sex videos, you were a minor so that won’t do anything to you.”

With that Bridie replied to the police radio and confirmed their position to the police at the cottage by using a coded message. Erica relaxed as she listened and concluded that no discernible information had been exchanged. Only somebody who knew the coded numbers would have the remotest idea of what had been said.

When they reached the car-park there were no cars at the top of the lane and Erica relaxed when they arrived at the cottage to be met by a ‘decorator’ in his white ‘brace and bib’ overalls.

“They’ve finished the building then, just the painting is it?” Erica observed.

“And the kitchen units to finish.” The ‘decorator’ replied.

The police accompanied Erica to her bedroom and she un-locked the door. Showing full respect to what was left of Erica’s dignity, only Bridie entered the bedroom and watched as the girl went straight to tattered, denim, girly back-pack that was stuffed behind some black polythene bags of clothes at the bottom of her wardrobe.

Bridie’s chest filled up as she watched the kid remove a few cheap but obviously treasured items, the last reminders of whatever time she had experienced before her kidnap. A small broken doll, a pink kitten purse with a few coins in it, a half used lip-stick, an unused tampon and a crumpled photograph of some woman Bridie presumed to be Erica’s mother.

Next, Erica dug out a small broken phone that she immediately disassembled to extract the memory card. She handed it to Bridie who recognised it as a very early mobile camera phone. Finally, Erica pulled out a dog-eared, tightly folded envelope and when Bridie opened it, she found a barely legible birth certificate.

With a lump in her throat that almost stopped her breathing, Bridie wrapped her arms around the kid’s narrow skinny shoulders.

“We’ll get this sorted darling, I promise you.”
She felt the girl give a shrug even while still in her arms.

“What the fuck? I’m past caring!” Erica mumbled as she slowly extricated herself from Bridie’s embrace.

oo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 33.

List of Characters.

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an
attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian
fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.
Maxwell Barker Boy with I-phone who posted Erica’s picture on Facebook

Chapter 33.

On the journey back to the safe hotel Erica was quiet. As they sat ‘three abreast’ in the battered old transit van, Bridie sensed Erica’s silent worries and gently reached behind her to squeeze cautioning fingers into Inspector John’s shoulder to advise him not to invade the girl’s thoughts. When they arrived at the hotel suite, Erica immediately sought out Olivia and Angela for a mutual support that Bridie knew she could not offer. Only the three girls had shared in the horrors of the care home and the paedophile rape gangs. That sharing gave them entitlement to a mutual, intimate support.

As Bridie wrote up her notes, she could hear murmuring coming from Olivia and Angela’s bedroom at first. Later she heard some cursing then finally some sobbing. Obviously the three girls were sharing some painful experiences. Eventually, Bridie felt bound to check up on them. She made some coffee and opened a packet of chocolate oatmeal biscuits then gently tapped on the bedroom door.

“Who is it?” Olivia demanded somewhat irritably.

“Who d ‘you think it is?” Bridie responded. “Father Christmas? I’ve made you some mugs of coffee and a large plate of choccie biccies.”

There was a suppressed giggle then Angie responded.

“Okay. Come in.”

Finding the three girls in only their knickers, bras and tights, lying on the big double bed that Olivia and Angela shared; did not phase Bridie one jot. Bridie fully recognised the girls’ needs need for close physical contact without any fears of unwanted abuse or over-invasive intimacy. She put down the tray of mugs and biscuits while the girls remained loosely entangled on the bed.

Olivia was in the centre lying on her back while Angela was on her stomach with her head draped across Olivia’s chest. Erica was lying on her side with her head resting on Olivia’s tummy and their legs were loosely tangled under the sheet. Bridie immediately realised that the intimacy was strictly a mutual support arrangement. She settled on the corner of the bed and asked.

“Are things better now?”

“A bit,” Erica volunteered. “Can I stay with these two tonight?”

“Don’t see why not. At least you won’t get pregnant. I’ll be in my usual bedroom. There’ll be all the usual suspects guarding the corridor outside.”

“Is that dishy German police inspector there?” Erica grinned.

“Be ’ave!” Bridie admonished her jokingly. “D ‘you want to eat out tonight; just us four?”

“And a dozen armed guards,” Angela added.

“Your choice girls; at least you won’t get mugged.”

“Can we do a Maccie-D’s?” Olivia begged.

“Eeeeh! I bloody knew it.” Bridie sighed resignedly. “It’ll have to be out of town though. The city’s not safe, too many eyes around.”

There was a joyous response followed by a merry-go-round of showers, hair-care, fashion parade and finally make-up sessions before the girls assembled in the main living room. Bridie cast an affectionate eye over the outrageous outfits and wagged her head in mock despair.

“We’re not going clubbing girls, just a Mac Donald’s’.”

“Spoil-sport!” Olivia charged jokingly as she pulled out her tongue.

“Would that we could girls,” Bridie admitted. “After all this is over.”

With those words, they collected a couple of guards and slipped away to find a Maccie D’s suitably far from the city to avoid scrutiny and recognition.

ooo000ooo

The following afternoon, as the four were joined by Bab’s and Lola; Bridie got a call from her superiors. She was sharing a genteel pot of tea with Bab’s while Erica, Lola, Olivia and Angela where trying on clothes and generally indulging in female fun. Bridie picked up her phone to find Inspector John and a high ranking deputy chief constable on the other end.”

“We’re increasing the surveillance and protection for the girls.”

“Uh oh. What don’t I know.”

“The pictures on Erica’s memory card. The man in several of the photo’s is none other than Abdul Ibn Saud.”

“Enlighten me.” Bridie wondered.

“He’s a grandson of the Saudi King and he’s already done time for assaulting a transgender student in Cambridge a few years ago.”

“Is he dangerous?” Bridie asked.

“He’s a bit of a thug and quite violent, but as a member of that family, he’s got a lot of financial clout and resources. Only a few months ago another of that family organised an attack on a Saudi Dissident right in the middle of London. They mostly don’t usually do the violence themselves but they hire in some very tasty bastards to do their work for them.

Abdul is something of an exception though; in as much as he often accompanies his thugs”

“What else do we know?”

“Where sex is concerned, Abdul likes them young and he’s not particular whether male or female.”

“So Erica -?”

“Would have been right up his street when she was trapped. I’m coming over tomorrow with several bods from the foreign office. Apparently Abdul’s in some sort of trouble up in Yorkshire right now. He attacked a stately home up in Yorkshire to try and avenge his being imprisoned for a transphobic assault on another student in Cambridge during his student days.”

“Good God! Tell me more.”

“Well he organised some jihadi thugs to attack the stately home because the student he tried to rape in Cambridge was a transgendered duke and he’s not just some sort of upper-class twit. He’s a bright boy, or should I say girl now and she’s a whizz with computers. Apparently she’s tied in closely with Cheltenham GCHQ and the CIA.”

“So how did this duke get tangled up in our case?”

“Our boffins were having trouble de-pixilating a clearer image from Erica’s memory card and he suddenly remembered this Duke guy from his GCHQ days. The Duke – or should I call her a Duchess now – has got full security clearance because she’s such a whizz with computers and she’s got a huge beef with the Saudis. All because of the assault by this Abdul fellow when the duchess was a transgendered student up at Cambridge.

Anyway, the story goes that she’s got a huge private file on the house of Saud but nobody can prove anything because she’s so canny with her computer security and it’s all locked away; both physically and electronically at her country pile in deepest Yorkshire. She has a file on just about every Saudi prince and princess going right down to the most mediocre, junior child.

When our boffin asked this trans-duchess a favour -they were at Cambridge together, - she was more than willing to enhance the pictures on Erica’s phone and run them through her personal computers with some facial-recognition software. It’s definitely Abdul Ibn Saud and this raises the stakes into the realms of high diplomacy.

What’s more, the duchess is even willing to testify as to Abdul’s identity and his proclivity for sexual violence. She says she doesn’t know or do much about the paedophilia angle but that’s probably to keep her files safe. The word paedophilia raises all sorts of alarm bells on the internet and she doesn’t want to fall foul of the data protection laws.

I tell you Bridie, this Trans-Duchess girl is the business, our American cousins apparently love her. Prepare for some shocks if she comes to court, and she might because this case is big!”

“Bloody hell!” Was all Bridie could say as she switched off her phone.

“Bad news?” Bab’s asked nervously.

“I don’t know, but they’re increasing the protection. Apparently this guy on Erica’s phone is a Saudi prince or something.”

“Is he the one organising this gang?”

“We don’t think he’s one of the big cheeses but he’s deeply entangled up with them somehow. The good news is he’s on remand up’ t north for this attack on some transgendered duchesses’ country pile. We can take Erica up to Yorkshire and she can run by an identity parade.”

“You’ll have to be quick, the trial resumes on Monday.”

“It’s already in hand, I’ve got to ask for Erica’s co-operation. I’m presuming it’s a given.”

“Let’s get to it then,” Bab’s agreed.

A knock on Lola’s bedroom door interrupted the girls’ fashion parade and Bab’s explained the situation to Erica while Bridie was now busy again on her phone.

“What in Yorkshire?” Erica squeaked. “But the trial resumes on Monday and it’s Friday afternoon now.”

“Don’t worry about that,” Bridie explained. “They’ve organised an identity parade for tomorrow morning in Leeds. You’ll be going up by chopper.”

“Oooh goodie! Another helicopter ride. Can all of us come?”

“I’ll have to check if there’s room. There’s a team of lawyers going up with us and of course the SAS guys plus your favourite German police inspector.”

“If the SAS are involved, I’ll bet they’ll use a chinook again.” Lola opined. “Then there’ll be plenty of room.”

“It’ll be nice to get out for once.” Olivia added. “Stuck in this luxury prison is sending us tonto.”

Bridie took the hint and made some more phone calls.

On the flimsy pretext that Angela might also recognise Abdul Ibn Saud the girls blagged another trip in the chinook. Bab’s forewent the opportunity as she contemplated a quiet Saturday in the hotel.

The next morning – Saturday, the Chinook whick-whocked noisily down to a waiting South Yorkshire police mini-bus and everybody was hustled quickly to the central police station. There Erica and Angela were escorted to the identification suite and it took but a few moments for Erica to confirm that the man in the pictures on her phone was the same man she had encountered in Amsterdam and Berlin during her transportation across Europe to Turkey.

Angelic reckoned she could vaguely remember seeing him once in Nottingham but she was not certain. When she expressed her uncertainties the officer asked if she could remember any dates and her vague recollections did tally with the dates when Abdul has been in England as shown by the stamps in his passport. Her evidence was deemed circumstantial enough to be included in the prosecutor’s evidence.

Erica’s evidence was however deemed prima-facia proof and when she matched her telephone pictures to photographs of some background scenery to a location she could remember in Berlin; the German police inspector gave a low whoop of satisfaction.

“This is dynamite frauline. Danke, danke Danke! It puts him at the scene of a serious crime we have been trying to solve for months!”

“Is he the one who attacked that trans-Duchess girl.?” Erica asked out of sheer curiosity.

“Yes. She’s down in the interview suite right now.” Bridie confirmed. “Do you want to meet her?”

“I bet Lola will. She’ll have loads of questions about trans stuff.”

“I’m curious as well,” Olivia interrupted. “Being as Angie and I are lezzy, I want to know why she’s still married to his wife.”

“Her wife!” Lola corrected her. “She’ll be like me, still attracted to women despite the transition thing. Come on, let’s go down and meet them.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 34 and Heir to a Title (merged). ©

All Characters in this story are purely fictitious and bear no known resemblance
to any living people.

Copyright belongs to Ms Beverly Guinevere Taff. ©

List of Characters. (Bab’s Resolution)

Barbara. Chief Protagonist AKA Bab’s.
Lola. (Seventeen) Transgendered girl rescued by Bab’s from an
attempted murder.

Olivia. (Fifteen) Barbara’s second adopted daughter: Black lesbian
fostered out of care then adopted. (With Olivia’s consent!)

Joyce Banks. Bristol Social worker.
Aaron Talbot Surgical registrar – married to -
Shirley Talbot Lecturer at Local university.
They are a married couple who own a narrow-boat on the canal.

Mickey Talbot (Twelve) Aaron and Shirley’s oldest child.
Jessica Talbot (Eleven) Aaron & Shirley’s middle child.
Bianca Talbot (Nine) Aaron & Shirley’s Youngest child.
Billy Medical colleague of Aaron’s – he also owns a narrow boat
Sandra Her parents also own another Narrowboat in Gloucester.
Jackie Sandra’s friend (a bit headstrong and ‘adventurous’)
Julie Third member of the threesome.
Jason. (Black) Gang member deals in drugs at the children’s homes
Tyrone (Black) Also a gang member, friend of Jason. Also a dealer.
Tyson (White) Also a gang member into drugs and trafficking girls.
Angela (Angie), Olivia’s trafficked, drug-addicted friend.
Sergeant Davis, (Bridie) female police bodyguard for Angela.
Sergeant Davies. (Brian) Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Erica. Another vitally important witness/victim. Very attractive.
Gareth Jenkins, police office trained in firearms and witness protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.
Maxwell Barker Boy with I-phone who posted Erica’s picture on Facebook

Characters. (Heir to a Title.)

Ellie. (Eleanor) The prime Character.
Bill (William) her father, (obviously)
Callie (Callista) Ellie’s only daughter. Initially Callum - a transgendered son.
Charlotte. (Nana) Ellie’s Paternal Grandmother
Sandie (Sandra) Ellie’s Older Aunt
Rosie (Rose) Ellie’s Younger Aunt
Henry Ellie’s boyfriend and husband. (Second son of the Duke of Denton)
Molly Duchess of Denton. Henry’s mother.
Bev (Beverly) Ellie’s aunt (Previously Uncle Bernard and brother to her dad.)
Jennifer. (Jennie) Beverly's older adopted daughter.
Beatrice (Bea) Beverly's younger adopted daughter.
Lucy, Henry’s oldest niece, Callum’s cousin.
Eleanor, Henry’s middle niece Callum’s cousin. Same name as Ellie.
Virginia Henry’s youngest niece Callum’s cousin
Julie Ellie’s sister-in-law.
Angela, (Angie) Beverly’s wife (kidnapped by pirates and rescued.)
Megan Beverly’s only blood daughter by Angela.
Margaret Arnold. (Maggie) Callie's best female friend. (Eventually to become wife.)
Jane Arnold, Maggie's mother.
James Denton (The Ferrety Denton) Callie's ambitious, uncle.
Uncle Phillip Arnold American Relation (CIA)
Abdul Ibn Saud. Spoilt Saudi Arabian prince and convicted sex offender (In the UK)

Author’s note.

At this juncture, my two stories titled ‘Bab’s New Year’s Resolution and my earlier story about an Heir to a Title are merged in this chapter. From this point forwards both stories and more importantly, the characters therein share the same lives and destinies. This chapter deals with their meeting and making acquaintances.

Bab’s New year’s Resolution. 34.

Lola and the three girls needed no encouragement to meet this unconventional duke who had reportedly transitioned from male to female.
As they dashed down the corridor, their bold, typically cheeky attitude presaged their arrival as their excited chatter carried into the executive police canteen where a married couple with very young children were talking to a high-ranking Deputy constable.

On arriving in the doorway, the four girls cast around for a somebody they presumed to look like a ‘docker-in-a-frock’ and they hesitated uncertainly as all heads turned to examine the noisy quartet. Olivia, ever the bold one took the bull by the horns and loudly announced.

“We’re looking for the duke!”

Lola elbowed her sharply in the ribs to correct her.

“Duchess you fool, duchess!” Then she too cast around looking for some middle-aged or elderly man in a frock. “Has anybody seen her?”

At the mention of the words ‘Duke and Duchess’, Callie was alerted to the girl's intentions and she stood up protectively anticipating some sort of attack on her and her family right there in the police canteen. After all, two of the girls were black and might easily be jihadists.

At that point Sergeant Bridie arrived breathless, but quick to realise the implications surrounding the confrontation. She had done her homework and was thus the only police officer aware of the full circumstances surrounding both her four young charges and the Duchess of Denton.

Even when recognising that the Duchess and her family was standing next to a deputy chief constable, she still had to defuse the tension and temporarily take charge. She did this effectively by loudly explaining the situation.

“It’s okay everybody! I’m Sergeant Bridie of Gloucestershire police and these four girls are here for the Ibn Saud identity parade. They simply wished to meet the Duchess of Denton because apparently she too has been a victim of Mr Saud’s activities”
Bridie quickly glanced towards the deputy chief constable and on receiving a brief judicious nod, she continued by addressing him and Callie.

“Your Grace, Deputy Chief Constable, I’m sorry for the somewhat energetic and excited arrival of these four young women but they were keen to meet your grace for several reasons. If I can explain a bit more privately.”

The atmosphere in the canteen quickly calmed down as Olivia once again characteristically - and loudly - declared.

“What! You’re the Duchess. Crickey! We thought you’d be much older!”

Once again, the marginally more erudite Lola gave Olivia another elbow in the ribs as she tried to apologise for Olivia’s crass remark.

“Sorry Duchess Denton. She’s a one off with a loud voice but she’s got a good heart. No offence intended.”

“None taken,” Callie grinned as she quickly recognised four typical east-end kids having briefly escaped their leash.”

Callie stepped forward and smiled as she extended a hand to Olivia; an act that completely dissolved Olivia’s boldness.

“Yes, I’m her grace the Duchess of Denton and you are?”

Olivia’s innate bravado evaporated as she reached out uncertainly to shake the proffered hand.

“Olivia miss. Olivia Smith.” She replied, while taking her adoptive name from Bab’s.

“Lola here wanted to meet you because; you know. You’ve walked the walk so to speak.”

Callie turned to face Lola and smiled as she thought she recognised a fellow traveller.

“Am I right in thinking Olivia meant transitioning?”

“Yes your Grace. I meant no harm. I’m Lola Smith, Olivia’s adoptive sister and these two are Erica and Angela. We’ve just completed the identity parade for Abdul Ibn Saud.”

“Oh him! We’ll we share common ground there Miss Smith. I’ve also met with that individual. Would you like to join us at our table? Perhaps we have things to discuss.”

Callie’s charm utterly disarmed the four girls as introductions were made mostly by Sergeant Bridie and Callie. As the girls took their seats, an embarrassed silence settled momentarily before the Deputy Constable used his experienced conference techniques to break the ice.

“So, young ladies, two things, firstly, it's a good thing that Her Grace the Duchess is not directly involved in your case or you might have caused problems with the court case. Witnesses are not really supposed to discuss the case between themselves, however I know that you four girls are actually victims as well as witnesses, so your communicating between yourselves becomes legal as litigants in the trial. Secondly, I’ve read something of your case and your unfortunate experiences, would you like to elaborate whilst remembering that there are two young children present, namely Callie’s son and daughter.

Lola responded as her marginally greater age invariably reflected itself through the dynamics of the quartet. She completed the introductions and outlined their mutual history whilst then leaving it to Olivia, Angela and Erica to elaborate their own stories. Callie then responded with her own experiences both at the hands of Abdul and by describing her route to transitioning. The latter part of course mostly interesting Lola.

“We can discuss your thoughts and choices more privately back at my house if all the identity business is completed here,” Callie offered Lola who sighed wistfully.

“I’d love to but we’re going back to Gloucestershire this evening. The court resumes on Monday.”

Callie turned to face Sergeant Bridie.

“Can Lola not stay with my family overnight. She can come down to Gloucestershire tomorrow in my helicopter. I think she needs a long chat if she’s thinking of having a family and stuff.”

As Callie said this she gently ruffled the hair of her son while gently scooping her arm around the baby daughter who was waving her arms in the carry-cot. As she skilfully lifted the infant and perched the girl on her knee then unbuttoned her blouse, Lola watched slightly enviously. Then Callie’s wife Maggie wrapped a beautiful Pashmina shawl around Callie’s shoulders because the baby girl had obviously latched onto Callie’s breast under the discreet privacy of the shawl.

“You can feed her?” Lola gasped softly as Callie allowed Lola a private peak under the shawl.

“Both of us do.” Maggie explained as she hoisted their older son and offered him a drink from a plastic nursing cup.

Lola’s eyes misted up as she turned to Bridie.

“That’s exactly the sort of thing I want to be able to do. Can you understand.”

“Of course I can darling but you’ve plenty of time yet. Finish your degree at university first.

Callie nodded and smiled supportively as she spoke softly to the obviously feminine Lola.

“I can see you’ve already started on hormones. Have you pre-prepared by freezing your sperm?”

Lola nodded as her eyes fixed enviously on the slight movements hidden under the shawl.

“Then Sergeant Bridie is quite right.” Callie advised. “Finish your degree. Where are you studying?”

“Cambridge.” Lola replied.

“Oh well done girl. I studied there. Indeed I still have connections with Professor Williams.”

“Of the maths department?” Lola asked.

“The same,” Callie confirmed. “He’s my professor as well.”

“Then we have even more in common. We can talk at mine tonight if you’re agreeable.”

Lola turned to Bridie.

“I’m not much needed in the court am I. I never had anything to do with this Ibn Saud guy. I’m not even a witness. Can I accept her grace’s invitation?”

Bridie turned to the Deputy Constable and Callie as she asked.

“Is the house safe your grace?”

Callie snorted with amusement.

“Oh call me Callie for God’s sake! Everybody else does; and yes. My house is safer than any other house except Buck-house.”

“Buck house?” Lola sought confirmation.

“Yes. You know; that big place at the end of The Mall. The only difference is that I don’t have smartly dressed red guards parading up and down. I’m every bit as secure though, you know, cameras, security guards and so on. At least I will be until all this business is sorted.”

Lola turned beseechingly to Bridie.

“Can I go Serge-. I’m not really needed in the court.”

Bridie turned a questioning eyebrow to the Deputy Constable who affirmed while nodding.

“It’s secure sergeant. I’ve seen the set-up myself. The girl will be safe there.”

Bridie opened her phone on speaker then contacted Bab’s to check it out and everybody heard Bab’s chuckle down the phone.

“Good God Bridie! She’s over eighteen, I’m no longer her legal guardian. Of course she can go if she wants to, and provided you deem it safe.”

“It’s safe Bab’s,” Bridie confirmed.

Lola gestured for Bridie’s phone and the sergeant willingly handed it over. After silently mouthing ‘sorry’ for using the phone amongst company at the table; Lola then spoke to Bab’s.

“Thanks Nana. I won’t let you down.”

“You make sure you don’t girl. Remember your table manners, you’re staying with a duke.”

“No Nana; she’s a duchess.”

At this juncture, Callie motioned to borrow Bridie’s phone to reassure Bab’s. Lola received a confirming glance from Bridie and handed it across the table. Callie introduced herself.

“Hello, is that Mrs Smith, Lola’s adoptive mother?”

“It’s Miss Smith, I’m not married, Lola’s my adopted daughter.”

“Oh, sorry about the confusion. My Name’s Callista Denton, formerly Callum Denton. I’ve invited your daughter to stay with me and my good wife for the remainder of the weekend. Is that alright?”

“You understand the issues I suppose?” Bab’s checked.

“Yes Miss Smith. As you’ll know I’m speaking on Sergeant Bridie’s phone right now. The Deputy Constable of Yorkshire is also here. I can assure you that Lola will be as safe at my home as she is anywhere else.”

“Okay. Put Sergeant Bridie on please.”

Callie returned the phone to Bridie who completed all the assurances that Bab’s needed. As she closed her phone Callie looked across at Lola.

“Your Nan obviously loves you. That must feel good after the rejections you’ve probably endured in care.”

“I wasn’t in care,” Lola explained. “I was thrown out by my sperm donor and sofa surfed while trying to sort my life.”

“More power to your adoptive Nan." Callie finished. "We can chat at my house if everything’s okay here.”

Olivia, Angela and Erica listened enviously as Lola took up the invitation then Angela, ever the practical girl declared.

“You’ll need spare knickers you lucky bitch.”

“Don’t worry girls," Maggie interjected, "there’s a perfectly functional shopping precinct in Harrogate. We can stop by there in case the gang have got toadies in Leeds."

Arrangements were finalised and after bidding her friends ‘cheerio’ Lola departed for Harrogate with the duchess and her family.

In the car, Maggie, Callie’s wife, took the rear seat with Lola while their armed guard occupied the passenger seat. Lola shared a delightful hour playing with the children as the car bowled along to Harrogate.

When they arrived, the Duchess parked the car in what was obviously some private location right in the centre of the town and Lola was quite impressed when she looked around.

“This place looks very posh.”

“Yes," Maggie smiled. "Harrogate’s rather proud of its town centre. Look, there’s a lingerie shop. We’ll get you some underwear and pyjamas.”

“I can afford my own knicks,” Lola declared.” I just wasn’t expecting an overnight invitation.”

“My treat.” Callie offered. “Let it never be said that the dukedom of Denton stinted on hospitality.”

Lola shrugged and decided to go along with the duchess’s largess, and soon she was indulging her ‘shopping genes’ in some rather up-market shops.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 35.

List of Characters.

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.

After the brief shopping trip and a late afternoon tea Lola and the Denton family continued on to Callie’s home.

‘Well now I get to find out how the other half lives’, Lola thought as the car climbed up onto a moor and the countryside became bleaker.

‘Bloody hell. I wouldn’t fancy living up ‘ere in winter. She concluded as the trees became more stunted and the moorland grasses less lush.

Then the car started to descend into a sheltered and altogether more fertile valley where a lush mature forest enclosed the road with glades of oak, ash, sycamore and beech. An altogether more inviting prospect emerged as the car slowed then entered a large carved stone portal before descending down an arrow-straight drive towards a shining lake. The drive seemed to stretch forever before they emerged from the shady glades into a sunlit valley where a huge house nestled into the gentle hillside on Lola’s right as they arrived.

Facing south, the house (‘more like a palace’ Lola thought,) captured the sun all through the day and presented a spectacular prospect to anybody arriving by the main entrance from the south. Lola and the Denton family had however arrived via the north eastern driveway and she had missed the formal spectacle of driving up to the front of the house as might noble house-guests have done two, or even three hundred years ago. The sight completely overwhelmed Lola’s sense of propriety.

“Bloody Hell! Is this yours?”

“’F’raid so Lola.”

“Who are all these people?”

“Visitors darling,” Maggie explained. “Come to look around the famous Denton Hall.”

“It’s fu – sorry; it’s huge! Don’t you get any privacy?”

“The west wing is where we live, up on the top two floors.”

With that, Callie drove the car into a large stable-yard behind the house then into a private, smaller quadrangle that obviously gave a private access to the West wing from the rear of the house. Even this ‘back-door’ still presented as a huge double-doored portal and through the multi framed glass, Lola could see the back of the main entrance hall where large groups of people were coming and going.

Callie parked the car in the marked box nearest the entrance then unlocked the huge doors before helping Maggie to unload the children. Lola immediately took the opportunity to hold the infant girl in her arms while Callie swept the older boy onto her shoulders and they trooped into the house. Once inside they turned sharp right behind the grand staircase then ascended a much more modest and discreet ‘back stairs’ that was separated from the main hall by a filigreed, carved curtain wall that allowed the user to scan the whole main hall.

Lola realised that in olden times it would have served as the servant’s stairs to allow them to discreetly scan the main hall and render assistance to any important guests.
The ‘back stairs’ comprised three flights that curved towards the back of the house before emerging onto the first floor where they were met by two women. Callie paused and turned as she put her son down.

“Lola, meet Ellie and Molly the Dowager Duchess and Grand-dowager Duchess. My mother and grandmother.

Mum, Nan, meet Miss Lola Smith; a fellow traveller like me.”

“Welcome to Denton,” Ellie declared as she extended her hand.

“Thank you your – uuhm do I say your grace?”

“Miss Ellie will do. Everybody calls me that, even the staff. I only use ‘your grace’ on special, formal occasions.”

Lola next turned to Molly, Callie’s grandmother.

“Four generations eh. Callie’s so young to be a duchess.”

“Yes. We had a few tragic accidents in the family. Callie was but a child when my sons died. One in the army and my second son in a train crash. Now, first things first; do you prefer tea or coffee?”

“Oh! I uhm prefer tea please.”

Molly led them along the long ornate corridor then turned right to a large living room with several doors leading off.

“Put the kettle on Ellie darling, Maggie show Lola the cloakroom, I’ll sort out some cake and Callie can nurse the baby.”

‘I can see who’s the organiser here,’ Lola mused as she took Maggie’s cue and removed her coat in the cloakroom before visiting the loo. ‘Hope she’s not some sort of county-type harridan.’

When she emerged, Maggie was waiting for her with a smile.

“Don’t worry about Molly. She’s got a heart of gold and she’ll make you really welcome. It’s just that when guests first arrive here they are in awe of the place and need to be organised a bit until they settle in and feel at ease. Once we’re sharing tea, she’ll prove to be an excellent hostess, you’ll see.”

Lola grinned as she checked her makeup and hair in the mirror.

“I would have thought you’d be playing the hostess being as you’re the actual duchess,”

“Naah. Molly’s an old hand at it. She knows every nook and cranny of the old pile. She’s been living here as Duchess, Dowager and grand dowager for over fifty years. You should hear the stories she’s got about when she first arrived as a young bride. It’d turn your hair grey with all the formality and pomp.”

Lola grinned as they re-entered the living room and Molly patted a seat on the sofa beside her.

“So, young lady. Callie tells me you’re reading maths at Cambridge.”

“Yes ma-am.”

“Oh that’s a bit formal. You’re Callie’s guest so call me Molly and my daughter in law Ellie. You’re in good company here, Ellie did maths at Cambridge and so did Callie.”

As she spoke, Ellie offered Lola some tea while Maggie served out the sponge-cake. Callie’s son Henry sat close to his great grandmother Molly while Callie nursed baby Caroline at her breast.

In such friendly and informal surroundings, Lola was soon put at ease and the talking continued until dinner needed preparing. Lola was more than happy to share with preparing the vegetables. At the sink she giggled with Ellie.

“I’d have thought you’d have an army of servants to do all this sort of stuff.”

“Oh to heck with all that. There’s absolutely no privacy with all sorts of maids and butlers getting under your feet. Most of what they called ‘old family retainers’ now work as staff running the house as a tourist attraction. Tour guides, running the estate shop and various attractions.

That way the old connections are continued but they get paid a proper living wage and if called upon for special occasions, they double up for extra pay. That way the house and estate pays for its own upkeep and the family aren’t burdened with onerous monthly salaries.”

“So what was it like when Callum revealed himself to be Callista.”

“Well, as you can imagine, there were flutterings in the dove-cote until she revealed that she had a girlfriend, that's me; and that she was able to save her sperm for future inheritance purposes. Molly was very put out but the old duke, Harry proved to be the saviour. He was adamant that Callie be allowed to follow her heart and brain. Once everybody was certain that the ducal succession was secure things became much easier.

You’ll have heard about the royal lineage act; well that set some politicians a’ thinkin’ and at the moment it’s a bit ‘up-in-the-air’ with the laws affecting noble successions. Callie and Maggie had all this to consider when they decided upon marriage and babies. There was a lot of uncertainty surrounding any possible new legislation.

Anyway, the up-shot was that Callista decided to stay with her ‘little-boy’ bits until all the remaining potential grand-parents and great grand-parents were content. Then after Henry was conceived and born naturally, Callie had the op and transitioned while Caroline was conceived invitro. I think you can see that Callie’s besotted with baby Caroline.”

Lola nodded as she paused with potato-peeler in hand.

“From where I’m standing, Callie’s made a lot of sacrifices to hold on to her manhood just to please the family.”

“Nobless oblige Lola darling. Just look around you. There’s no knowing what would have happened to Denton Hall and the estates if Callie’s uncle had got his hands on it. Thankfully it remains a goodly example of ‘Ye olde England’ and more importantly Denton Moor survived the ravages of excessive quarrying while the forest remains a priceless SSE.”

“Yes it looked beautiful when we drove though it via the ‘back-door’. All those beautiful glades of mature trees.”

“It’s not that which makes it an SSE, it’s the fact that it is one of only a few sites in England where Pine Martens thrive and red squirrels thrive.”

“Oh. Why’s that?”

“Well, strange as it may seem, there is a theory that Pine martens don’t seem to favour red squirrels but they find grey squirrels delicious. Consequently, if any of those American imported invaders move into Denton forest, they get caught and eaten very quickly by the martens. Whether the theory is right or wrong I don't know; but we certainly have very few if any grey squirrels in Denton forest.

“How odd. I’d have thought there’s not much to choose taste-wise between two breeds of squirrel.”

“I don’t know why it is, but Maggie thinks it’s because Red squirrels tend to eat mostly pine-cone seeds and their flesh is less palatable to Pine martens. Also grey squirrels are bigger and fatter so they make a better, more worthwhile meal to chase through the trees. Strangely, red and grey squirrels are not related.”

Lola’s brows knitted because she had watched grey squirrels flashing though the woods behind Canal Cottage and they were spectacularly fast.

“How do the martens catch the squirrels.”

“They chase them. You wouldn’t believe how agile pine martens are. Maggie’s got some very rare footage of a hunt and it really is spectacular because it actually shows the kill. The BBC people could not believe the footage was not faked because the action was so beautifully portrayed but it was all a happy accident as Maggie happened to have the camera right there on the spot. The footage remains to this day, the only close-up, focused images of a pine marten chasing, catching, killing and eating a grey squirrel. The BBC used it as footage for one of their wild-life programmes. Of course they also take the young squirrels in their dreys.”

“Aaah. Poor babies.”

“You wouldn’t say that if you saw the damage that grey squirrels do to young trees plus the carnage they commit against birdlife by stealing their eggs. Pine martens destroy the grey invaders and that’s why Denton wood is an SSE. It’s loaded with rare examples of small birds and the trees are in excellent health. By the way, how long are you staying?”

“Only til’ tomorrow. Callie’s got some pointers about surgeons, transitioning and dealing with trans-life in Cambridge. She’s taking me home tomorrow because of the court case.”

“That’s a pity. Denton Forest is a picture of abundance and colours come the Autumn. That’s the time to see it. Some say it’s as good as a New England fall, especially with the newly planted groves of assorted maples planted to cover up the scars of the old quarry. They’re only young saplings just yet but they still look every bit as spectacular with the American reds and oranges contrasting with the English yellows, browns and golds. I’ll extend an invite to you on Callie’s behalf to come up during Michaelmas half term.”

“Gosh. Thank you Ellie.”

They finished ‘prepping’ the veg and were eventually seated to dinner where the conversation, as planned and agreed by Callie and Lola, revolved around transitioning. Ellie’s invitation was confirmed by Callie who also extended it to Lola’s adopted siblings and companions. Lola grinned a caution to the older ladies.

“Be prepared for a gale of fresh air when those kids turn up!” Lola advised. “They’re a bit wild and something of an eye-opener as Callie can confirm.”

“They didn’t strike me as bad kids though,” Callie opined. “Hurt and wounded more than badly behaved. Believe me Lola, this house will have seen a lot worse behaviour during the days of hunt balls and such like.”

“Well that’s the truth!” Molly added as she fixated dreamily on the ceiling. “Wild times they were indeed!”

“Oh do tell Nana.” Maggie implored.

“Tsch, tsch,” best left to the annals of history I think.”

Molly declined to expand further and the frustrated diners were left to concentrate on transgenderism and university life.

Through the evening, Lola picked up numerous tips and sources of help and entertainment and by bedtime her head was spinning. More importantly, she had made a good and useful transgendered friend.

She couldn’t wait to re-join Belinda and the girls.

ooo000ooo

The following morning, Callie picked up on her mother Ellie’s suggestion. She and Maggie took Lola for a walk through the private section of the woods and there revealed the secretive lair of the pine marten in the hollow bole of a large oak tree. Some juicy pieces of Rabbit carcase were placed by the entrance hole and the trio settled down to a very silent wait. Eventually their patience was rewarded by the appearance of a pair of bright beady eyes followed by a slinky mustelan body that slipped cautiously out of the den and sniffed the meat. Lola was beside herself with suppressed delight as she watched the rarest British mammal start to chew on the prize.

When the last piece was gone, it settled to groom it’s whiskers and finally it disappeared back into its den. It was only then that Lola noticed the camouflaged armoured wire leading away from the tree into the soil.

“What’s that about?” She whispered.

“There’s a camera inside the den and it leads back all the way to the house. It’s devoted to monitoring the martens now but when that mad bastard Abdul was stalking Callie this was part of a protective network of cameras all around the house.”

Lola nodded as she recollected that Canal Cottage had to be similarly defended.

After visiting the pine marten lair, Lola had to reluctantly leave Denton Hall. Soon after lunch, Callie piloted her in the helicopter back to Gloucestershire. As arranged, they landed at the local airfield between Gloucester and Cheltenham then a Police car took them to Canal cottage.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 36 ©

List of characters

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.

Chapter 36.

As the unmarked police car picked its way down the winding lane to Canal Cottage, Lola was mildly surprised to see that Olivia and Angela were walking back along the canal towpath towards the cottage. They were only a hundred yards from the house but Lola was mildly surprised to see that the girls were openly walking alone despite the known threats from the rape gang.

‘They’ve been to see Aaron and Shirley’ I suppose, she mused as the police car pulled up alongside them.

“Hi Ollie, hi Angie. Where’s Erica?”

“Hi Lola, Hi Callie. Erica’s helping Bab’s cook a cake and some fairy cakes for afternoon tea. They set to baking the moment you phoned. Are your staying over tonight?” Olivia asked Callie.

“No sorry girls. I’m back to Yorkshire tonight, - business to sort tomorrow.”

“Ah thass’a pity.” Angie remarked. “Busy, busy is it?”

“Summat’ like that. I’ve come down mainly to meet this amazing old woman who adopts kids in her eighty’s; and then a bit of business in Cheltenham.”

“She’s in the kitchen, like I said; baking a cake.”

The car reached the cottage even as Ollie and Angie trotted up to open the little garden gate. Bab’s heard the commotion outside and checked on the cameras to ensure it was Ollie and Angie, she was doubly pleased to see Lola with another, older girl emerging from a police car. She presumed it to be the Duchess that Lola had met in Leeds. Having confirmed their identities, Bridie opened the door and invited the four females and Gareth, the police car driver.

“Did you have a good flight down?” Bridie asked Lola.

“Did I ever. We flew below the two thousand foot air traffic control altitude something-or-other and we just followed our noses coming south using landmarks and stuff. If we saw anything interesting we just moseyed over and had a look. It was fantastic. Sometimes we had to avoid airports or city centres but otherwise we just flew as and where our fancy took us. It was brill!”

“Not fair!” Erica protested as she emerged from the kitchen sucking cake mix off her fingers. “I’d love to fly in a private helicopter.”

“Your turn could come; and sooner than you think girl,” Callie declared as she shook hands with Bab’s but avoided Erica’s sticky fingers.

“Not just yet though,” Bridie advised as she explained. “After all these court cases are sorted here and in Europe; then hopefully you’ll all be free to go up with Callie. It’s too much of a security risk just now. Be patient Erica darling, there’s better times just around the corner.”

When they settled around the kitchen table, Bab’s asked Callie.

“Are you in any position to help these girls with their cases.”

“I might be able to.” Callie replied whilst being careful not to reveal the depth and extent of her cyber activities. “I will have to check some stuff when I get back to Denton Hall tonight.”

“Bloody hell!” Lola exclaimed. “You get about a bit eh! Nature trail in Denton forest this morning, then an air tour of middle England this afternoon, then returning to Yorkshire tonight. What time will you get home?”

“Oh about nine-ish if I leave here about seven. I’ll be flying direct though it’ll be dark by then so no sight-seeing. We’ll have some time for more chat until then.”

“It makes me realise just how small our country is.” Erica sighed as she sneakily took the last cake off the cake plate.”

“Hey girl. You’re gonna’ have to make another batch of those.” Olivia protested. “We were hoping to give Callie a dozen or so to take back to Yorkshire as a thank-you present.”

“Already in the oven.” Erica grinned. “They’ll be ready long before seven.”

“Well I’ll have to leave here about six-ish. I’m stopping by in Cheltenham before I go to the airport. People to see, things to do.”.

“In a police car?” Angela squeaked as curiosity overtook her. “Where do you get off having such special treatment?”

Callie covered that question easily.

“I’m a duchess, sometimes it’s nice to pull rank, but in fact it’s important business and it might affect your security. That’s all I’m prepared to say.”

“So you are something to do with security!” Olivia gasped. “The SAS lieutenant said something to that effect while we were clattering back in the Chinook.”

“Yes. I sometimes get involved in security work and stuff. That’s partly what I was doing with the police in Leeds while you were attending Abdul’s identity parade.”

“Are you anything to do with the investigation of the gangs then?” Bab’s asked bluntly.

Callie nodded openly.
“Yes. I’m involved in other aspects of their activities but often their people trafficking gets tangled up with what I normally investigate.”

“Like terrorism and arms smuggling?” Erica pressed.

“Amongst other stuff, yes. When I learned that some other victims of Abdul’s activities were coming up to Leeds I made it my business to be around when you visited the cop-shop. Lola’s issues simply proved to be a useful opener to break any ice.”

“So why the intense interest in us then?” Bab’s asked suspiciously and ever aware of the dangers to her girls.

“Abdul sexually assaulted me whilst I was in Cambridge.” Callie continued. “After that I was always looking over my shoulder throughout my years at college. That bastard damaged me; psychologically that is and it took me years to get over the assault. A girl doesn’t forget or forgive that sort of stuff. The more I can do to stop bastards like him and get them put away, the happier I am.”

“Amen to that!” Bridie remarked as she made a point of looking at her watch.

“Time enough yet.” Callie remarked as she noted Bridie’s hint. “As soon as Erica’s cakes are done, we’ll go.”

“Another ten minutes,” Erica declared as she checked through the oven window.

ooo000ooo

As a treat, Bridie took the girls with Callie to GCHQ and then on to Gloucester airport where the girls stood enviously watching Callie climb easily into her helicopter and disappear rapidly towards Yorkshire.

Instead of returning to the cottage that Sunday evening, they returned to the hotel ready to re-commence the trial on the Monday. During the journey they quizzed Sergeant Bridie about Callie’s activities.

“You know as much as I do girls.” Bridie confessed. “Even the chief constable in Yorkshire confessed that he didn’t know much. Lola, you probably know more than I do. You’ve at least been up to her place. Did you learn much?”

“Only that she’s got cameras everywhere, even in the woods. Her wife Maggie is a zoologist and she’s into pine martens. The camera’s double up to study their wild pine martens whilst also protecting her family.”

“What are pine martens?” Erica wondered.

“They’re like giant weasels They live in the trees and sometimes eat grey squirrels, at least the ones in Denton forest appear to. There are no grey squirrels in Denton woods, just red ones and they’re very pretty as well.”

“Like pest control?” Angela observed.

“Summat like that,” Lola agreed.

Thus the conversation in the car touched on many things and the journey passed quickly.
Once again they arrived at a different hotel as the police moved the girls around for their own protection. The following morning, the case resumed and Erica once more found herself in the witness box dealing with brutally painful reminders of her ordeal.

The defence counsels for the gang members proved to be brutal and cruel in their endeavours to prove that Erica was simply a wayward, underaged prostitute who fell into bad company through her own amorality and greed. Time and again reference was made to her having been put into care through her own activities and immoral behaviour.

The problem was that on the face of it, this appeared to be true. Erica’s childhood had been a catastrophic catalogue of bad parenting followed by failed placements in assorted care homes where the main objective was to maximise profits for the owners of the children’s home. This coupled with poor supervision and even worse provision of support services had quickly precipitated Erica into wanton disregard for authority or her own safety. She had become a perfect target for the grooming gangs who sucked the girls down into a nadir of rape, drugs and prostitution.

Once targeted, her descent was almost instantaneous and of course, no effort was made by the care authorities to locate, recover or treat such cases. They were simply written off and forgotten about by police, care agencies and virtually all elements of government responsible for child protection.

Erica’s case had proven to be a perfect storm of abuse, neglect and disinterest by just about all the agencies of care. What made it worse was that often, the care agencies and police often knew of each girl’s situation and still did nothing to prevent it because of political correctness protecting ethnic minorities for fear of being accused of racism.

At times it seemed that Erica was the girl on trial and not the rape gang members. The vicious attacks and innuendoes were steadily eating away at what little confidence she had. After several days of these attacks Erica was beginning to fail in the witness box and as she sometimes got her facts confused. Several times she broke down in tears as the defence counsels attacked her mistake and made it appear as if she was lying.

Then, out of the blue, the prosecuting counsel received a huge file of undiscovered documents concerning Erica’s disappearance. When these confidential police and child services files were opened it exposed ‘chapter-and-verse’ a ghastly litany of failures, prejudices and worst of all, clear collusion between the government agencies, social services, the police and powerful members of the rape gangs.

Specific events in identifiable locations, were documented with dates, times and audio-visual evidence showing high-ranking politicians clearly raping and abusing Erica and other children in the UK, Holland, Germany and Turkey. Erica was clearly identifiable and there was even one clip of her being drugged by a woman injecting the girl with a needle. In nearly every instance where facts were presented the evidence proved that Erica had not been lying but simply got her dates or locations confused.

As this appalling evidence became apparent, the ensuing hue and cry led the judge to suspend the trial whilst he called both counsels to his chambers.

ooo000ooo

“This evidence was not presented in the original bundles.”

“No my lord,” the leading prosecution counsel conceded, “It simply appeared on my and my colleague’s computers on Tuesday morning, just before I was preparing to present the summing up for the prosecution.”

“I can clearly see where the files came from and I am bound to allow them as evidence. Indeed! How can I not? But, I have to ask, why these files were not presented in the original bundles.”

Both barristers looked at each other and shrugged respectfully as the lead prosecution barrister admitted.

“We have no idea how they appeared on our computers your lordship; they just did.”

“As they did on mine later this same morning and I must tell you now gentlemen, I also have no idea who sent them but they certainly look genuine. Once again, I’m going to have to suspend the trial while all of us try to locate the source. Who ever supplied these document knows a hell of a lot about these rape gangs. It is incumbent upon us to a check if the files are genuine and to locate the supplier of the files. Whoever it is; is a prime witness.”

The judge, concluded with no small degree of annoyance, that he would have to suspend the trial for a second time.

“I’m going to suspend the hearings yet again and speak to the witness Miss Erica in my chambers.

Go and tell her I need to speak to her immediately but don’t distress her. She’s quite obviously gone through more than enough already”

Having suspended the case until the Thursday, the judge disrobed and was just pouring himself some tea when a very nervous and tearful Erica knocked timidly on his door. The judge’s secretary answered the door and invited her in with a kindly smile as the judge stood to greet the terrified girl.

“Come in young lady, I wish to speak to you privately so neither counsel will be here. My secretary is here to act as your chaperone for I can tell that you are terrified by the treatment you’ve received at the hands of the defence counsel. Now, firstly I am going to reassure you that you are NOT the one on trial here.”

Erica just stood there nervously nodding while wondering what had actually happened. She had never heard of a judge interviewing a witness privately before. The judge asked gently.

“Have you any idea who might have sent these documents or where the originals might lie.”

“No si-; sorry your honour. None at all.”

“Now, as you know, I’ve suspended the case until next Thursday so that gives you and me a chance to look at these documents and see if you can shed any light at all. As you can see, these are photocopies of the originals and I for one would like to know where some of these originals might be. Whoever had access to the originals must be some sort of whistle blower because these pages are dynamite. Have you any idea as to who that whistle-blower might be?”

Erica wagged her head nervously for she truly had no idea. The secretary offered her a tray of tea and Erica’s trembling hands betrayed her fear. The older lady gently steadied Erica’s hands by resting her own on Erica’s arm.

“There’s nothing to be afraid of darling. His lordship is establishing that you are totally ignorant of these papers.”

The secretary’s motherly touch finally broke the dam and a flood of tears burst forth as Erica slumped into the large sofa. The woman sat beside her and squeezed her shoulders while helping to wipe away the tears. The judge looked askance as Erica’s cheap mascara and make-up was smeared across the cheeks. However he ignored the girl’s dishevelment and invited her to study the screen on his desk.

“We’ll just slowly go through the pages and if you see anything, any names or instances that ring a bell; just tell me. I need this to decide whether to stop the trial and reconvene a new trial.”

“Oh no! Please your honour! I couldn’t go through all that again. Pleease your honour, not another trial!”

“Exactly Erica.”

It was the first time he had ever addressed her by her name and it demonstrated that the interview was an informal friendly process.

“If I can establish the validity and pertinence of these documents, I can allow both counsels time to re-present their cases and continue with this trial. Shall we look at these documents now.?”

Erica nodded vigorously while pursing her lips tightly shut. The judge noted her conflicting body language and noted Erica’s inner torments as her wish for the truth to be exposed, conflicted with the revelation that her abuses and experiences; but above all her previously wild lifestyle would be further exposed to the court – and the whole world. Eventually Erica expressed her fears.

“I don’t want to look at the video stuff you honour. I’ve been reminded enough and I’ve just got nothing left, no privacy, no self-respect, no self-worth; nothing!”

The judge nodded thoughtfully as he made a mental note for the new video evidence to be shown in camera. The new images were infinitely more degrading than the earlier evidence and those first images had been bad enough. It was quite obvious that this new evidence had been suppressed by somebody powerful in the UK. It was not only rape gangs, religious entities, criminals and terrorists who dealt in paedophilia.

More importantly, the person or persons who had accessed these files was or were obviously deeply hidden and very, very clever! For them to have found the files and revealed them at such a critical moment was an exquisitely cunning act. The judge wanted to meet that person or persons if only to say thankyou for exposing the crimes.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 37 ©

List of characters

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 37

On the Thursday Afternoon, after consulting with both counsels and several of his colleagues in the judiciary, the judge finalised his decision to suspend proceedings until both counsels were content to resume the case after studying and presenting the new evidence.

“I will give you a full week and then some to complete your presentations and I will resume the case on a week next Monday. If you work through both weekends that will give you ten days before this case resumes. My job is to try and determine if these files are legitimate and all importantly to try and determine their route to my court and this case.

In any event, I am prepared to accept that the video evidence is genuine because I eventually persuaded the witness to look at them. I can assure you that my clerk had to work overtime as a mother-comforter to the girl, for the images were extremely distressing!
It’s no wonder this kid was in a psychiatric ward for months. She must have been terrified out of her wits.

Eventually she confirmed the material was factual and she went as far as to identify two of the abusers who are new to this case. I am told that the Dutch police are already interviewing another of the abusers from the video evidence they received while German and Turkish police are already seeking the ones that the girl identified. This case just seems to grow and grow.

It seems that this video was also launched onto Police computers throughout Europe with other pertinent information supporting the validity of the images.

Fortunately, as best as I can determine, the jury have not yet seen the documents or the video so the case has not been compromised. I am therefore going to allow the evidence to be admitted. I’ve also decided that the video evidence will have to be shown ‘in camera’. I don’t think that girl could survive seeing any more repeats of what she’s already been put through.

They branded her for God’s sake!

What’s more, I will have to warn the jury about that!”

Both counsels agreed for in truth, the images of the naked Erica screaming in pain on the video had sickened them. The judge had seen the branding on her buttock that completely confirmed the video’s content. Sadly it also revealed the ‘tramp-stamp’ that Erica had had done of her own volition, when she was a wild, twelve-year-old runaway.

Both counsels left the judge’s chambers with a final warning ringing in their ears.

“You go easy on this kid when next she sits in that witness box. I don’t want a corpse on my hands!”

For his part, the judge left his chambers determined to discover the identity of somebody who seemingly had better access to secret files than the police. He was later to learn that same individual had better access to certain foreign sources than the security services of several major countries including the UK, the USA and Russia.

ooo000ooo

That Thursday evening as the judge arrived home there was a further encrypted email message waiting on his computer. The judges daughter had discovered it but she didn’t have the password to the Judge’s encryption code.

“It’s for you daddy, but I for the life of me, cannot identify the sender.”

The judge studied the encryption then decided to contact Inspector John for the police inspector had been the lead investigation officer during the first trial and the message advised him to contact the officer. The judge phoned the inspector.

“No, I haven’t opened it. I’m phoning you because the messaged suggests that I do so.”

“Are there any encryption number codes attached?” Inspector John asked.

The judge read out a series of numbers, letters and symbols to Inspector John who then passed them to his specialist team in Birmingham police computer centre. They had run the numbers through their secure computers and a very surprising source was revealed.

“The source seems to be GCHQ in Cheltenham boss.”

“Good God!” Inspector John exclaimed before returning the judges call.”

“Yes. GCHQ no less. I’ve checked with my contact there and she gave me a secure number that I can reveal to you so I suggest you call them and they’ll guide you forward your lordship.”

The judge wasted no time making the call and passing the encoding numbers to an anonymous female voice. He heard the lady tapping away on her computer and eventually she came back with a decryption of the Judge’s original email.

“The message says that the source of the video is in Saudi Arabia. It is used by unscrupulous criminals to frighten trafficked women into submission.”

“Can you find out who the sender of my email is and / or tell me how he got the video out of Saudi Arabia.”

“I can tell you that he somehow hacked the video off an original web-site but we’ve no certain information concerning his identity.”

“Are you telling me there’s a hacker out there that can defeat our most sophisticated computers?”

“He hasn’t defeated us because we have not been looking for him. We have only just learned about this stuff tonight, when your police officer contacted us.”

The judge harrumphed with irritation then pressed the agent to get searching.

“I can start right away judge but I make no guarantees. I have already discovered that the hacker went through at least six top-level security sites in Morocco, Iran, Russia, Turkey, Pakistan and Mexico. This guy is clever.”

“Well I want him caught; I want to question him in court.”

“Why your lordship. It seems to me from what Inspector John told me, that he’s on the side of the police and the law.”

“That’s as may be. But the courts have to have things above board and in the open. We can’t have anonymous, secret individuals simply feeding evidence into a case without any responsibility for their actions.”

There was a soft ironic chuckle down the phone as the agent explained.

“Your lordship. The last thing GCHQ does is anything ‘above-board and in-the-open’! We’re spy catchers and intelligence gatherers. Secrecy is our middle name. I’ll see what I can do and I’ll call you back on this number on Monday at four p.m.”

As he put down the phone, the judge could not resist his own amused smile as he realised the frustrating truth. The agent was perfectly correct. Secrecy was their middle name.

True to her word, the GCHQ agent called the judge at exactly 1600 on the Monday.

“We have our suspicions but nothing certain your lordship.”

“Well give me the name of your suspect and I’ll try some other avenues.”

“I’m afraid I cant do that your lordship.”

“Why?” The judge demanded.

“It’s come from the top; the very top. The person we suspect is just too damned useful to both us and the CIA in America. If we revealed our suspicions to you we might compromise this individual’s sources and safety. I’m very sorry your lordship but my advice to you is to be thankful for the information this individual has given you and go ahead with the evidence available.”

“Dammit,” the judge cursed mildly, “reading between the lines here; I’m suspecting that you’ve got a good idea who this individual is but you’re not prepared to co-operate with the courts.”

“I can’t say your honour, you’ll have to speak with my superiors.”

“Who are?” The judge demanded.

“MI5 and / or MI6 your lordship.”

“And their phone numbers?”

“Are in the London telephone directory your lordship.”

And they were, much to the judge’s chagrin.

ooo000ooo

During that same weekend, the four girls also wondered who the anonymous provider of the evidence was. They were not really interested in the information on the video for Erica had long ago describe her ordeal to them. They were more interested in the contents of the files that had evidently been hacked off local authority and police files all over Britain.

“Why didn’t this stuff come to light before the trial?” Olivia wondered.

“I don’t know,” Erica declared, “but it stinks. Somebody is hiding something in some local authority somewhere. It’s funny that so far, nobody’s asked me anything about any names in those new files. I know I saw Nottingham on one file on the judge’s computer and the files for London boroughs were all listed separately with a flashing red icon. I’m sure that concerns us and our time in the homes.”

“Should we ask to speak to the judge about it?” Lola suggested.

“That would show that Erica was peeping at the judge’s computer.”

“He didn’t seem to mind. He was scrolling through files while I sat beside him. Then he came to the video and concentrated on that.”

“Yeah, but that would be because the video was prima-facia evidence.” Lola pointed out. “He needed to confirm it was a real video and not some enhanced repixled fabrication.”

“You should ask to speak to your prosecuting counsel Erica.” Angela opined. “Somethings not right here.”

“I’ll speak to Sergeant Bride and ask for a meeting.” Erica agreed.

Their approach to Sergeant Bridie was pre-empted by a request from the prosecution counsel to go through the new files with Erica.

“Some of this makes little sense to us but you of course will be bound to recognise some of the material.” The lead counsel explained to Erica.

“You bet I do. I got glimpses of it on the judge’s computer as he showed me the video. He only wanted to confirm the validity of the video but I saw other stuff as he was scrolling down the screen.”

“Good. So what was it that caught your attention?”

“Nottingham, Brent, Brixton. That’s what I recognised. There was other stuff but he was scrolling too fast.”

“Well the good news Erica, is that we’ve got the whole file here so you can go through it with my team. Each one of us, and you, will have their own screens and you can take us through it at your own speed. I think we’d best deal with the sources and places you recognised. Then my team can investigate those while you search for more. By the way, would you like Sergeant Bridie and Inspector John with you. I’ve noticed that you seem to trust them.”

Erica nodded vigorously and the barrister sagged with some relief. It was a dream to have such a co-operative and informative witness. Bridie and the inspector joined with Erica and another computer was attached to the bank of hardware that now stretched in a circle around Erica. It demonstrated physically that Erica was the centre of attention. She sat at her own table with Bridie beside her while Inspector John took a seat next to the senior leading counsel. The lead barrister then addressed the group.

“Ladies and gentlemen. My plan is to let Erica work through the files at her own speed and if anybody discovers something or has a question, we stop and ask Erica. By the way, Inspector John has a line from these computers to the police team to co-ordinate or exchange anything deemed worthy. So let’s get to it, we’ve got the rest of this week and the weekend.”

Before they even got started Erica raised a question.

“My two friends Olivia and Angela were also in the Brixton home with me. They should be here as well because we were not always together. They might recognise names from when I wasn't there.”

The lead counsel nodded thoughtfully as she realised their oversight and arrangements were made to invite the pair to the sessions.

“What about Lola?” Bridie whispered.

“She was never actually in care with us" Erica replied. "She just absconded from her foster home and lived on the streets or sofa surfed. She’s never actually been abducted or abused by the gangs.”

By lunch time, Erica recognised the strident estuarine accents of both Olivia and Angela as they arrived at the legal chambers. She grinned as they were brought into the dining room and they dashed across to hug their friend.

“Blimey girl! You live high on the hog. Look ar’ all this nosh!” Olivia loudly declared.

“Tuck in gutsy.” Erica replied, giving as good as she got as the legal team just smiled and wagged their heads.

They had got perfect diamonds for witnesses but they were uncut stones.

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 38 ©

List of characters

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 38

After a week of intensive study of the documents combined with constant collusion with Olivia and Angela, Erica finally came to the end of the bundle. As the prosecution counsels worked alongside the girls they were shocked at the revelations that emerged as dates and places were matched to the girls recollections and names mentioned in the files.

Time and again, one or two or sometimes all three of the girls would gasp or curse as they realised that some individual they had identified as ‘A’, ‘B’ or ‘C’ would turn out to be ‘X’, ‘Y’ or ‘Z’ and who happened to be somebody working for a local authority, or charity or government agency. In two cases, they were high ranking police officers.

In another instance a police file turned up some very disturbing corroborations of the girls observations.
“We all knew him as ‘Mac the knife’!” The girls gasped as the files revealed him to be the chief executive of social services in a town in Yorkshire.

The para-legal assistants fell silent except for one young lady who was tapping furiously on her keyboard until she let out a gasp followed by a sotto-voice curse.

“I thought I’d seen that name! Here it bloody is!”

“Tsk, tsk Miss Lewisham. Not the sort of language I expect from a trainee barrister” The head of chambers admonished her.
Miss Lewisham stalked angrily across to the printer and snatched the page off the machine to place it firmly under the leading counsel’s nose as she riposted.

“And not the sort of behaviour one would expect from a chief executive of Social Services. There! Look, fourth line down. A police reference to his nick-name in some masonic bash he must have been attending. ‘Mac-the-Knife. How’d ’you think he got that name?” I wonder.”

He took the proffered page from the young barrister and stared askance at it with eye-brows raised.

“I see what you mean,” he replied as he turned to Inspector John.

“It looks like another damned interview for the girls.”

There was an angry curse as Erica slumped back with exhaustion.

“Not more bloody interviews!” She sobbed.

Miss Lewisham quickly stepped across the circle to hug the exhausted teen-ager.

“Not now love. Not for a long time. Come and have a cup of tea, it’s nearly eleven.”

Almost by telepathic consensus, the circle of mostly young researchers stood up in a unanimous act of support. All of them had at some time been shocked and sickened by what they were learning from the files.

As Erica sipped the hot, sweet, milky tea, her two friends Ollie and Angie gathered protectively beside her on the sofa as tears glistened in all three of the girl’s eyes. They had all suffered in some degree at the hands of ‘Mac the knife’.

Very cautiously, the young paralegal trainee settled on the arm of the sofa and carefully broached the subject to all three girls. She did this to avoid overloading Erica with yet more traumatic stress. She also sensed that she had somehow won Erica's confidence so there was no better place to broach the questions.

“Can either of you two give us any details?”

Both Olivia and Angela nodded as Erica looked up through glittering tears of anger.

“If you’re happy with my questions, I’ll start with you Angela then if either of you two can corroborate it, just nod and I’ll come back to each particular issue or event later.”

It was a tactic secretly filmed by a hidden camera and the strategy worked. As Angela narrated events involving ‘Mac-the-Knife’, Olivia and Erica simply nodded confirmation and the researchers found themselves making much faster progress.

They discovered several more high-level individuals who's names were being furiously written down then emailed to trusted police officers. By the end of the Monday session, the prosecution counsels had more than enough to support Erica’s claim whilst incriminating some very high level government officials including some MP’s and members of the house of Lords.

After completing the searches of the files, the remainder of the week and following weekend was spent checking out dates, locations and known facts about the identified suspects. Fortunately this only involved the girls at a superficial level for all they had to do was corroborate stuff that was already a matter of record in the documents.

Their other task however was a much more distressing one. Missing girls were being linked to the files by dint of all three girls identifying faces on the police ‘missing-persons’ files. In a score of instances, it transpired that one or more of the three friends had been the last innocent witnesses to have seen the missing girls alive before they had been moved to places unknown.

Even before the week of research was complete, the police had already found two corpses by simply following up Angela and Erica’s recollections. Fortunately both Inspector John, the lead prosecuting counsel and the judge put a stop to a police request to have the three friends identify the corpses.

“Give the poor girls a bloody break!” The judge cursed uncharacteristically when the police request landed on his desk.

Inspector John fully supported the judge’s decision as he studied the forensic photographs of the exhumed, decayed bodies. He shook his head and explained to his colleagues in Manchester.

“Leave it to the dentals and DNA lads. These poor dead bitches were friends of our three witnesses and they’ve been through enough!”

ooo000ooo

After nine days of exhaustive work the prosecution team had a rock-solid case against the second raft of rape-gang members plus further charges and accusations to level against the original defendants convicted in the first trial. By far the most serious and numerous charges were laid against Abdul Ibn Saud, Manuel Lopez, a Mexican drug lord and a one, Irtan Dofar, a Turkish people trafficker.

When Erica returned to court on that Monday morning she almost vomited when she saw the three of them arraigned in the dock. The judge immediately ordered a screen to be placed between her and the defendants while allowing the jury a clear view of all proceedings and participants except Erica. From the cover of the screen, Erica smiled with relief then mouthed her thanks towards the judge.

“With the new evidence the trial became an ‘open-and-shut case’ and it took the jury less than an hour to reach its verdict after three days of additional hearings.

After the judge had retired, Erica got another message from his chambers. This second time she was not so nervous when she knocked on his door. Once she was seated he explained.

“Sadly Erica, you’ve still got the German and Dutch trials to attend as a witness. The dates for those are fixed but I have been informed that the Turkish trial has some way to go before a date can be fixed. I suspect there is some murky water to be navigated yet with all the turmoil out there.”

Erica nodded her head slowly as the judge explained some his own feelings and suspicions. Finally, armed with the judge’s thoughts and warnings, she took her leave and joined the girls later in yet another hotel.

“We’ll have stayed in every hotel in bloody England before this fucking business is over!” She sighed as she slumped down onto the settee in their suite.

Sergeant Bridie noted her weary mood and moved to encourage her.

“Try not to get too stressed girl. When it’s over you’ll receive substantial compensation for damages.”

“She’ll be able to write a book.” Lola chuckled.

“Or even make a film!” Olivia added.

“It’ll be fucking ‘X’ rated if I ever do.” Erica replied as she stood up and yawned.

“I’m for bed, anybody else?”

“Not before some sort of Supper,” Olivia argued.

“Huh! Typical!” Angela riposted. “I’ll try room service.”

“No. I’ll organise a meal,” Bridie responded while explaining. “Room service is one of the chinks in the armour. How are we to know who’s delivering the food?”

“Point taken.” Erica conceded as she shuffled towards her bedroom to change before eating.

ooo000ooo

The meal was eaten in silence as each of the girls dwelled upon their private thoughts. As the final clinking of cutlery fell silent, Erica turned to Lola.

“Will you cuddle me tonight?”

Lola smiled and nodded. This was taken as a general signal to head for their beds and soon total silence reigned in the apartment.

The next morning as the girls prepared to return to court to hear the judge’s sentencing there was a commotion on the court steps. From the security of the side entrance the girls heard shots being fired and they immediately adopted the pre-arranged plan as their armed guards bundled them back into the armoured van.

From their secure place they heard Sergeant Bridie talking over the radio then she cursed.

“Fuck! How badly.”

The girls heard the word ambulance followed by hospital before Bridie turned towards the girls with a worried expression.

“Bab’s has been shot!”

There were several shrieks of angry despair before Bridie was deluged simultaneously with questions as the girls demanded to know.

“They’ve taken her to hospital, she was shot in the lower back.”

“Take me there immediately!” Lola pleaded.

“And us!” All the girls added simultaneously.

“What about the sentencing?” Bridie warned.

“That can wait.” Lola declared. “I’d be surprised if the court carries on anyway. There’ll be a crime scene outside the doors anyway.”

“I’ll check it out now.” Bridie agreed.

After a few brief checks Bridie confirmed that all the courts had been suspended and after several calls she turned and nodded.

“We’re going to the hospital, it’s a fair distance away.”

“How is she?” Olivia begged tearfully.

“Give them a chance darling, they haven’t even reached the hospital yet.. Re-fasten your seat-belts girls, we’re going for a ride.”

As the van sped towards the hospital, Bridie was continuously talking on the radio then she turned to the girls.

“They’ve caught the gunman. The getaway car skidded off the road through a fence and down a railway embankment.”

“Good!” Erica gasped as they swept through the A&E emergency entrance.

Despite Bridie’s endeavours; the girls burst heedlessly out of the van and dashed into the A&E department demanding to know about Babs. It was only when the girls were refused access into the theatre that Bridie managed to catch them. Her angry voice reverberated around the A&E waiting room.

“You stupid bitches! The gang could have been waiting here for you!”

Suddenly the truth dawned on the girls as they realised Bab’s might have simply been bait. They glanced around fearfully but Bridie now had the situation under control. She cursed the girls for their head-strong stupidity even as her radio crackled again. Angrily she snatched the clip from her lapel and barked into the mike.

“Yes. Sergeant Davies here.”

The radio crackled again but, because Bridie had earphones in, the girls could not hear what Bridie was being told.

“Have they?”

The radio crackled again.

“All of them?”

More crackling then Bridie relaxed.

“Good! Give my regards to Inspector John; and thank him.”

She turned to the girls and frowned.

“They’ve caught the ones planning to ambush you, they were waiting outside The Royal Hospital because they anticipated Bab’s being rushed to the nearest A&E. Instead, Inspector John ordered the ambulance to the General Hospital because Bab’s injuries were not immediately life-threatening. It’s a good job he did otherwise we’d have driven into a hail of bullets.”

Erica’s mouth was agape as she realised what had happened.

“The inspector must have anticipated their plans!”

“I think you’re right Erica,” Bridie agreed, “he’s canny thinker when he puts his mind to it. One step ahead yet again.”

“This whole business is getting dangerous – bloody dangerous!” Lola intoned.

“You fucking bet it is!” Olivia agreed as Angela just nodded; lost for words.

After Sergeant Bridie had explained to the A&E unit manager, the five of them were taken to a ‘family bereavement room’ for their own protection until the A&E surgeon appeared. The five of them looked up hopefully so the surgeon gave a cautious smile.

“She’ll live, - but – she might be unable to walk for a long time; if at all, bearing in mind her great age. The records say she’s seventy eight or nine, can you confirm that.”

“Seventy eight, she’ll be seventy nine in December." Lola advised then asked. "Can we see her?”

“They are taking her up to the wards now. She doesn’t need intensive care because the injuries are no longer life threatening. Give her an hour more to recover fully from the anaesthetic and you can see her. Who’s the oldest relative?”

“I’m her oldest adopted daughter.” Lola revealed.

“Ah. That makes sense now. Do you know her full circumstances?” The surgeon asked tactfully.

“Yes.” Lola replied monosyllabically so as not to reveal any of Bab’s secret circumstances to the girls. Lola was'nt quite sure whether Olivia, Angela nor Erica were aware that Bab’s was transgendered. As she replied to the surgeon she had tried to motion with her eyes to implore secrecy but her effort had not gone unnoticed by the sharp-eyed Erica.

When the surgeon had left, Erica immediately tackled Lola.

“What was all that about?!”

“What?” Lola responded defensively.

That eye-contact thing with the surgeon then you slid your eyes our way. What’s that about?”

“I’ll speak to Bab’s first, once she’s out of this. If she’s okay, she will tell you herself. All I can say is that it doesn’t affect you or Ollie or Angie.”

The stressed Erica, already burdened with too many secrets and too many experiences, now topped by Bab’s having been shot; cursed loudly and laid verbally into Lola face.

“What is it you bitch!? What are we not allowed to know? Come on! Tell us!”

Lola equally stressed just like all the girls, blasted back.

“Just fucking wait! Not here! Not now! Bab’s can tell you, if or when she’s good and ready!”

The confrontation had all the signs of erupting into a full blown row and Bridie was forced to assert her authority.

“Stoppit! The lot of you stoppit! If you don’t calm down I’ll have the boys remove you from the hospital!”

Erica cursed loudly and slumped down onto the chair almost breaking it despite her smallish size. Bridie eyed her a clear warning.

“Enough! Okay! The last thing Bab’s wants is a troop of angry bitches marching into her room. If she’s got any problems or issues then It’s for her to discuss them when she’s ready! AND NOT BEFORE!

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s resolution 39. ©

List of characters

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 39

Driven by impatience, the moment the sixty minutes had expired, all four girls were clamouring at the ward-sister's little office eager for permission to see their adoptive Nan. The ward sister looked up when they arrived and sighed patiently.

“The surgeon will be here in a few moment’s girls; he’ll check your grandmother then put you in the picture.”
Before she had finished, the surgeon appeared at the end of the corridor. They met midway as the girls surged forward.
“I’m checking her now, - won’t be a moment.”

The girls hovered at the door to see Bab’s seemingly still unconscious then noticed that the surgeon was talking to somebody out of sight,

“Yes, they’re the witnesses, the lady’s grandchildren. They’re allowed in.”

There was a rustling of paper then the unseen person replied.

“Oh yes, they can come in if your happy Doctor.”

The girls recognised Gareth’s voice and squealed their impatience. Olivia’s voice as always, the loudest.

“Bloody hell Gareth. It’s us. What-choo playin’ at?”

The surgeon turned to face the girls and put his finger to his lips.

“Keep it quiet now girls, she needs lots of rest so don’t excite her.”

The girls crept in and circled the bed as Bab’s opened her eyes and smiled. Softly, she whispered. “Hello girls.” It was all she could muster.

“The girl’s faces fell to see their beloved ‘Nan’ looking so frail and weak. Nervously they glanced towards the surgeon and Erica whispered.

“Is it okay to kiss her?”

“Yes but don’t lean on the bed. There’s several drains below her waist plus the intravenous drip.”

Thus cautioned, each girl took a turn to gently kiss their beloved ‘Nan’ then silently departed to meet up again outside the sister’s office.

“She looks really bad,” Lola remarked.

“Of course she is, she took two bullets in her lower back.”

“Did they get them out?” Olivia asked.

“There’s fragment of one very close to the common Iliac artery but that’s due for elective surgery on Thursday. We’re giving her some time to recover from the shock of what’s she’s already suffered plus they’ll be taking more X-rays to determine the best procedure. Oh, and she’s got a rare blood group so we’re ordering up some of her type. The hospital is short of her blood type. The extra supply be here tomorrow we hope.

“Is she in danger?” Angela asked fearfully.

“She could be if she bends or twists her back. It could cause the fragment to move and puncture that Iliac Artery. We’ve got her sedated.”

All the girls swallowed nervously as the sister checked the notes.

“Hmm.”

“What d’ you mean, Hmm?” Olivia demanded.”

“Do any of you girls know your blood groups?”

They exchanged puzzled looks before each girl admitted they did not. Erica, ever alert to her HIV status asked further.

“Do you want blood donors then?”

“We always want blood.”

“But I’m HIV positive.”

The sister stared at her judgementally and Erica became angry.

“I was kidnapped and raped hundreds of times. We are the ‘Rape Gang girls! That’s why there’s a copper guarding Nan!”

The ward sister now realised who the girls were and the horrible headlines that had surrounded the first court-case. When the country learned there was yet more to come in a second court trial and probably more in a third trial a wave of national disgust had swept the country. The sister felt a shudder as her manner became abjectly apologetic.

“Oh! You’re those girls, I’m so, so sorry Erica, I didn’t realise; I should learn not to judge people.”

“Yeah, well - well– jus’ remember.”

The sister quickly changed the subject to avert any more blunders.

“What about you other girls? We’re always short of blood.”

The girls looked at each other and shrugged before Olivia spoke for all three.

“Yeah. I suppose we could donate blood. Where’s the blood donation thingy?”

“It’s in the car-park just below this window. It’s quiet just now so you should be seen to quickly.”

Angela grinned as she checked.

“Do they still give free cups of tea and biscuits?”

The sister smiled and chuckled.

“If I had a cup of tea for every time that question gets asked – “.

Bridie briefly spoke into her microphone and the girls scuttled away towards the blood donor van.

As they tramped noisily down the corridor a woman approached them and everybody tensed as Bridie reached for her hidden pistol and put herself physically between the woman and the girls.
The woman was brandishing a clip-board with some forms and didn’t seem to be preparing to attack them but Bridie remained alert as the girls tensed.

“Good afternoon girls, are you giving blood?”

“We are,” Bridie confirmed as she cast about tensely than relaxed as she recognised two of the armed police already covering the blood donor van. “So what can we do for you?”

“Would you like your DNA checked as a free gift to all first-time, donor people over seventeen and under twenty five.”

“What’s the catch?” Olivia demanded suspiciously for she had previously been arrested by the police in London and she was certain they already had her DNA.

“Nothing. It’s a free trial to try and develop genetic profiles for people in this region.

“Thanks, but no thanks. Anyway I’m from the West Indies so I bear no relationship to this area.”

Angela, being Olivia’s closest friend and ally also refused to take the offer but Lola hesitated.
She had never known her father and indeed, she still spoke of him angrily as ‘her sperm donor’. The situation wasn’t much better with her mother for she had been dumped by her at an early age as well. All she knew about her mother was that she was from a single parent family as well. As with her biological father, Lola referred to her biological mother as ‘her egg donor’.

“Yeah. I’ll take a DNA test, at least I’ll know what roots I’ve got even If I never knew either parent.”

The woman looked up sharply.

“There’s a national DNA data bank. You never know if one or both your parents are on it.”

“Makes no difference anyway,” Lola shrugged. “If I met either of them I’d probably shoot them – fucking bastards!”

The woman tensed momentarily before realising that Lola was a typical product of a failed care system. Instead she started taking down Lola’s details then produced a sample kit.

“Just swab this around the inside of your cheek please.”

With the task done, Lola re-joined Olivia and Angela in the donor van.

“Any of you girls ever given blood before?”

All three girls wagged their head.

“Right then, I’ll just run a few tests on a sample first. Are any of you sexually active?”

Olivia, always the brassiest and boldest let out a loud snort.

“Ha! Are we ever. She won’t leave me alone!”

“Lying bitch! Angie riposted. You’re the randy one.”

The nurse wagged her head and smiled
“With boys I meant. Lesbians don’t usually infect each other unless they’re really intimate, and even then -.”

She left the sentence hang before turning to Lola.

“And you dear?”

“Nah, I’m celibate.”

“Nobody’ll ‘ave ‘er!” Olivia crowed.

“I’m fussy about who goes in my knickers.”
“Yeah. Only cos’ you’re afraid of what they’ll find.”

The nurse looked askance at Lola who explained in two simple phrases.

“I’m trans – pre-op.”

“But you’re celibate right.” The nurse reaffirmed.

“Yes,”

“Good.”

After sampling the bloods, the nurse then set about inserting the cannulas and the girls did as instructed by each squeezing their ball. The procedure was soon over and they re-joined Erica and Bridie prior to returning to yet another different hotel.

ooo000ooo

“When they got there they discovered that the police had already transferred what little luggage the girls carried plus some delayed mail that Bab’s had brought up from Canal Cottage, before she was shot. Lola opened her letter and discovered she was booked for GRS the following week.

“I thought that was booked for last June.” Olivia remarked.

“We had to put it back because of the double trials in the courts. It’s September the first next Tuesday.”

“That doesn’t leave you much time to recover before college.” Bridie frowned.

“I’ll have to muddle through.”

“I’d suggest taking a sabbatical.”

“It’s probably too late to reorganise the government grant.”

“Dammit! I forgot you’re from the care system. Do you have a registered adult keeper?”

“Don’t be daft, I’m over eighteen. I have to handle all my own documentation.”

“Sorry Lola, it’s pretty shitty that.”

“Yeah. Tell me about it. There’s thousands like me; just out of care. Mostly on the streets. I’m one of the lucky ones, Bab’s was there for me.”

“And us,” Angie interjected as Olivia nodded while sorting out some tea.

“Yeah, we’ve got everything to lose if Bab’s doesn’t make it.” Erica added.

The following morning the ward sister was waiting for the girls as they arrived to visit Bab’s.

“Morning girls. The surgeon wishes to speak to Lola.”

“Oh shit! What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” the sister replied somewhat offended by Lola’s language. “He’s up with Bab’s now, you’ll catch him before he resumes his rounds.”

All the girls took off as concern overtook them and they arrived outside Bab’s ward looking worried. The surgeon looked up and nodded as he put his finger to his lips and signed for quiet.

“You girls can go in, but Lola I need to speak to you.”

“Is she okay?” Lola asked.

“Yes. She’s scheduled for surgery tomorrow to get the splinter out.”

“So what’s this about.”

“The blood bank phoned me.”

Lola paled, expecting bad news about her blood. The surgeon recognised her fear and moved to reassure the girl quickly.

“No girl. It’s good news, something of a fluke really.”

“Go on,” Lola pressed; still worried.”

“Your blood. It’s the same rare blood group as Miss Smith’s. The strange thing is you’ve got virtually the same antigens in your blood. Are you related?”

“No. Not as far as I know.”

“The police officer guarding Miss Smith yesterday. He told me all you girls are from the care system. She’s adopted you.”

“Except Erica, she’s not adopted yet; just fostered.”

“Well that’s by the bye. Did you know your parents?”

“No way, I never even knew my egg donor, let alone the sperm donor.”

The surgeon quickly recognised Lola’s deep abiding resentment so he moved on quickly.

“Well for your blood to be so closely matched to Bab’s there’s a one in forty chance you and she are related. You’re both AB but it’s the antigen match that narrows the odds. If I were you, I’d get a DNA test.”

Lola shrugged. She could not see any extra benefits to having matching blood save that it meant the operating team would have some extra top quality blood walking around in Lola’s body if it was needed. The surgeon reinforced this fact.

“Tomorrow, when we operate, I’d like you handy. The splinter, as you are aware is dangerously close to the blood vessel and it’s quite high risk. That’s why we delayed it until we had enough blood. The central blood bank still hasn't got enough but having you as a walking, talking, living blood bank makes the operation a virtual certainty and much safer. We'd like to run further tests this afternoon if you're happy."

Lola understandably shed some tears as she reaffirmed the safety issue.

“She will survive this won’t she. The Iliac artery is one of the big important ones, isn’t it?”

“She should do, your fresh blood will be an enormous boost to the success of the op. Do I sound like some sort of Vampire?”

His remark amused Lola and she couldn’t help giggling.

“I’ll be there for her doctor. She’s all I’ve got.”

The surgeon smiled then paused.

“Do you want a DNA test, just to see if you might be related.”

Lola chuckled again.

“I already had one, yesterday at the blood bank. I didn’t know about the AB thing though. That doesn’t prove anything about blood relations does it?”

“No but the odds are reduced. You could be related.”

Lola shrugged and remembered distantly that Bab’s had said she was connected to Hull by marriage and Lola had been told by the Social services that her mother might have had some connections with Hull or Newcastle; she could not remember exactly which.

“You can give it a try doctor but in all truth, I’m not much into relatives being as I’ve never knowingly had any by blood. Anyway, the test I took yesterday at the blood bank would show wouldn’t it?”

“Oh that’ll take weeks or even months to come through all the bureaucracy. My friend and colleague in the University Labs, can get you a result by tomorrow. She does them for the police all the time. The social services and police have already got Miss Smith's DNA on record.”

"How come?" Lola demanded suspiciously.

"Oh nothing sinister, Miss Smith consented to it when the social services and and Police had to run CRB checks on her for the adoption licence to adopt you girls."

"Oh. I see. Okay then test all you want. I'll be here anyway visiting Bab's all afternoon."

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 40 ©

List of Characters.

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 40

At lunch time, as the girls took a break from their vigil over Bab’s recovery, Bridie received a message. She turned to the girls with the news that the court-case was resuming the next day. Lola had to explain so she took Bridie aside to whisper her problem.

“I can’t be in court tomorrow.”

“Why?”

“The doctors want me around for the operation on Babs.”

“You! Why would they want you?”

“You’d better speak to the surgeons, I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say.”

Bridie was in a quandary. She had to stay to protect the girls but she wanted to know why Lola couldn’t attend the sentencing. It was not essential for her to be there but separating the girls again would require more police to protect Lola. She sighed as she gathered the girls to explain.

“Stay here with Gareth in Bab’s room until I get back.”

After meeting with the surgeon, Bridie returned and explained to Lola.

“Yes. You’ll have to attend the hospital tomorrow. It’s not essential for you to be in court, it’s only the judge’s sentence.”

“I’d liked to have been there but – you know.” Lola sighed.

“Know what?” The ever attentive Olivia demanded.

“Nothing,” Lola replied a little irritably.

“What is it with you and secrets?” Olivia pressed.

Bridie intervened once again to avoid contention.”

“It’s not a secret Olivia. The hospital can’t get enough of Bab’s rare blood group. Apparently, Lola’s blood is okay to use as a transfusion if there are complications with Bab’s surgery. She’ll be standing by if they want extra blood.”

Olivia snorted with amusement.

“Bloody ‘ell! This is like Tony Hancock’s ‘The blood donor’. Got royal blood ‘ave you Lol’s?”

“Piss off,” Lola giggled as the girls went to the canteen.

Bridie was relieved and amused that the girls were in better spirits for it had been a trying time for the four of them. Once seated around the table, Lola explained to the others.

“Yeah, Apparently Nan’s got a very rare blood group, AB – something or other, - and by some freak of nature, I’ve got the same blood. They’re short of it in the blood banks, so they want me handy.”

The mood around the table visibly brightened when the girls learned that at least one of them was of some use to their precious Nan.After eating, the girls returned to keep a brief vigil before Lola separated to donate more blood and have her DNA test at the university hospital laboratories. She re-joined the girls at the hotel later that evening to find several extra armed police in evidence. Bridie explained.

“The judge required more protection for your friends. Apparently, he’s handing out some stiff sentences tomorrow and the gang might be tempted to take reprisals.”

“What about me tomorrow? Alone at the hospital.”

“You’ll have a couple of guards as well.”

“So I suppose there’ll be some sort of objections about how much it’s going to cost.”

“I’ve told you before, this case is huge. There’s even an Interpol budget attached to the case now. A couple of copper’s extra overtime won’t even show in the figures.”

“Thanks. I’ll still be glad when this is all over.”

“Won’t we all” Bridie agreed.

ooo000ooo

After a fractious night of worries for Bab’s and debate about the types of sentences the gang-members would receive; the girls finally took to their beds. Once again, Erica begged Lola to keep her company and Lola duly obliged.

When they were spooned together in the large double bed Erica broached a subject that had been bothering her.

“If your having the op in September how will you and your girlfriend Belinda manage if you ever get married?”

“Manage what?” Lola queried.

"You know, sex and stuff."

"The same way Olivia and Angie manage."

"So what about babies? You won't have your willie."

“Frozen sperm darling. Bab’s organised that the day I told her of my issues.”

“God she’s wiser than we think isn’t she? I wish I’d had a mother like her.”

“You will darling, and soon. If you agree to her adopting you like Angie, Ollie and me you’ll legally have a mum.”

“Then you’ll also be my sister won’t you? Legally I mean.”

“Yes. Now go to sleep. You’ve got court in the morning but I’ve got to prepare to give more blood. They’ve had a litre out of me in the past couple of days so pray that Bab’s operation goes okay without a hitch and they don’t need more.”

With these words, Erica pressed back contentedly into Lola’s tummy and soon the pair were asleep.

Bridie found them still tightly spooned in the morning when she was forced to shake them out of their slumbers. After several shakes and shouts, she finally got the pair out of bed.

After a light breakfast, the girls watched Lola being driven back to the hospital and the surgical block before they were escorted to the court.

The two escorting policemen delivered Lola to the surgical theatre block and accompanied her right to theatre where several masked surgeons were prepping Bab’s for surgery. One of the surgeons waved through the theatre spy window and Lola smiled as a nurse picked up the door-phone to make contact.

“Who are all the surgeons?” Lola asked the casualty surgeon..

“The chief thoracic surgeon is Mister Price; I’m just assisting this time for I’m normally the casualty consultant. This operation requires specialist skills and Mister Price is the chief abdominal consultant for the hospital. We want you to wait here in the recovery room until or if we need your blood okay.”

The answer satisfied Lola and she stripped off her clothes before donning a gown in case they needed her quickly. The nurse in charge of the recovery room returned and attached some electrodes to Lola’s head and explained.

“If we do decided to take blood, we’ll keep a scan of your cognition through these electrodes. Now it’s a matter of just waiting.”

After a long look through the door panel, Lola became bored with the sight of just backs as the surgeons operated, so she settled into the chair they had provided to await results. She was engrossed in a magazine article about another transgender case when the call came.

“Blood donor!”

She needed no encouragement to slide her bum up onto the gurney and bare her arm as the recovery nurse inserted the cannula into her arm then pushed her into a side ward for convenience. Lola had secretly hoped somehow to be lying alongside Bab’s but the recovery nurse explained about the need for sterility.

“Is Bab’s okay?” Lola begged.

“Yes. They’re on course with the procedure but they're down to the last few centilitres of blood. We’re only taking two-fifty c.c.off you as a precaution. Extend your arm and try not to move your head too much. It might affect any brain-scan readings.”

Lola did as requested and watched with no small satisfaction as her blood filled the bottle much faster than at the blood bank. The recovery nurse watched intently as Lola regularly squeezed the ball.

“How d’ you feel?”

“Fine!” Lola grinned.

“Are you feeling dizzy or faint?”

“No.”

The recovery nurse took the bottle and told Lola to stop squeezing. Then she tapped on the theatre sight panel. The bottle was passed through then words were exchanged before the nurse returned.

“Could you manage another quarter of a litre?”

“I think so. I’ll give it a try. Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing at all, we’re just getting a valuable supply of rare blood.”

“Crikey. I feel like some sort of valuable asset.”

“You are darling. Okay, now tell me immediately if you feel tired or sleepy or dizzy or 'pins-and'needles' or anything.”

Lola resumed squeezing her ball in her hand and watched with satisfaction as another two hundred c.c. entered the bottle before she became woozy.

“I think that’s enough,” Lola mumbled and the recovery nurse reacted instantaneously by exchanging the blood bottle for a bottle of plasma to reverse the fluid flow and replace Lola’s lost fluids.

As Lola recovered her wits the recovery nurse congratulated her.

“Did I pass out just then?”

“No. You went a bit faint but the scanner showed your brain function to be unimpaired. You were not unconscious just sleepy. No harm done. D’ you want a glass of milk?”

“What, no tea?” Lola giggled.

“Milk will replace your bloods faster. Then we’ll organise a couple of steak dinners for you tonight and tomorrow.”

“Dinners! How long are you keeping me in?”

“Until tomorrow evening, you’ve given a lot of blood.”

“How’s Nan?”

“I’ll check in minute. She was on course just now.”

The recovery nurse sat quietly by the sleepy Lola as she lay recovering on the gurney in the little side room.

Eventually, the theatre doors opened and Lola saw Bab’s being wheeled into the recovery room. She could not resist calling across.

“How is she?”

“Mr Price looked askance then stepped over.”

“She’s recovering but it’ll be a slow recovery. Are you the relative?”

“I’m one of her adopted daughters but we all call her Nan.”

With that the casualty surgeon turned to Mr Price.

“Actually Bob, I got the DNA results before I came down to theatre this morning. It's pretty certain this girl is the patient’s grand-daughter.”

The remark went straight over Lola’s shoulder for she was still a bit dopey and preoccupied with Bab’s recovery.

“Did you hear that Lola?” The recovery nurse tapped Lola’s shoulder.

“What?” Lola looked up uncomprehendingly.

“Did you hear what Mr Jacob’s just said?”

“Uhm, no. I was wondering about Nan.”

“Mr Jacobs the casualty surgeon looked down and wagged his head at the preoccupied Lola.

“You must love that Old lady Lola.”

“Of course I do, she’s my Nan.”

“Well not exactly darling.”

Lola looked askance at Mr Jacobs referring to her as darling.

“Whadd’ya mean?”

“She’s not exactly your Nan darling, biologically, she’s your Gram’ps.”

Lola still didn’t get it so the surgeon took the bull by the horns.”

“I got the DNA results from my pal at the university early this morning but I couldn’t get hold of you. Your mobile phone was off.”

“What did they say? – The tests that is.” Lola pressed nervousy.

“I’ve just told you. Bab’s is not only your adoptive mother but she is also your biological grandfather.”

“My grandfather!! How the hell does that work?”

“Oh come on now Lola. You’re a very bright girl. Work it out!”

Lola wagged her head slowly as she admitted defeat.

“I don’ know how that works. I’ll have to speak to her when she’s awake.”

“I’d be careful of that darling. Discovering her grand-child might be too much stress for her in her current weakened condition. None of us know the back story as to how she became separated from your family but I’ll warrant it has something to do with her transgenderism. Think on girl. You were cast out by your parents so think what it must have been like for Bab’s back in the day.”

It's quite possible Bab's may have strong guilt issues surrounding any separations affecting you."

Lola fell into a thoughtful silence as she stared at the unconscious old woman on the gurney.

‘Only God alone would know the full story, or at least until Bab’s was recovered enough to tell her version of it.’

ooo000ooo

She looked up hopefully at Mr Jacobs.

“Can I stay by her side tonight?”

“What! All night?” Mr Jacobs frowned. "You've just given an excessive amount of blood. You should be sleeping."

“I’m the only blood relative here aren’t I. That makes me the closest relative.”

“Well I, - “then Mr Jacobs had second thoughts. Lola was right she was the nearest relative, indeed the only blood relative present; and at eighteen, she was technically an adult.”

“Okay then Lola but promise me you won’t spring any surprises on her.”

“Would I hurt my Nan. Come on now Doctor Jacobs, what d’ you think I am?”

“Very well Lola. I’m trusting you, and anyway the police sergeant will be here as well; for your protection and Barbara's.”

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s resolution 41. ©

List of Characters.

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington. Lola’s new girlfriend in college.

Chapter 41.

While Bab’s lay unconsciously recovering from the anaesthetic, Lola phoned Bridie.

“I’ve got some important news for you when I get back but it’ll be tomorrow.”

“Why is that?” Bridie asked.

“I’m keeping vigil with Bab's in the IC ward tonight.”

“I’ll have to tell the girls then; they were expecting you here tonight.”

“Just tell them the hospital only has one visitor’s bed per IC patient. Gareth’s also here as a guard for Bab’s so he’s guarding me as well, the visitor bed is in a little annexe next to Bab’s room. Usually it’s used by parents being there for their child.”

“Yes, I know the set up. The girls will be over at about eightish in the morning then we’ll make ourselves scarce until the situation is checked out at Canal cottage.”

“Oh don’t say we have to evacuate the cottage! I love that place.”

“All the girls do, but we have to determine how the gang located Bab’s at the courthouse.”

“All they had to do was wait in ambush and they would have been confident she would have been at the court some time. The day of sentencing would have been a pretty likely day. I’m not convinced they’ve located the cottage.” Lola offered hopefully.

“If they’ve identified Bab’s, they’ll probably have learned where she lives. We might have to move you all lock stock and barrel.”

“Where?”

“Good question Lola. It might be expedient to move you out of the UK, particularly as the girls will be attending court next in Holland.

“What? You want us to live in Holland?”

“Temporarily. You’ll have to live there anyway during the Dutch trial.”

“Hold on Bridie, I’ve got surgery booked in a few days. There’s no way I can move to Holland, plus there’s my Uni course. I’m already likely to miss the first couple of weeks while recovering from my GRS. This is a right mess.”

Bridie felt forced to agree with Lola and concluded they needed to sit down and re-formulate their strategies.

“When is your surgery booked?” Bridie asked.

“I go in Monday and the op is scheduled for Tuesday morning early, seven o’clock. They keep me in then until Saturday and if everything’s okay, I’m discharged.

“Damn! The girls will be in Holland by then getting prepared for the next court case.”

“What, all of them?”

“Yes. Olivia and Angela are identity witnesses for character referrals while of course poor Erica is a factual witness. I’m not much up on Dutch, European law because the procedures and technicalities differ somewhat.”

“So you’ll be in Europe as well.” Lola checked.

“Yes, and Inspector John. The problem is where to put you.”

“I’ve had some offers.”

“Can you trust them?” Bridie asked because they were concerned also about Lola’s safety. She could be kidnapped as a bargaining chip to blackmail the other three into staying quiet.

“Two of them certainly,” Lola confirmed.

“Who are they?”

“Callie, my new friend in Yorkshire or Belinda my girlfriend.”

“Callie? Who’s she?”

“Callie Denton. She’s got a house in Yorkshire, north of a place called Keighley,

“Is that the Duchess of Denton? The lady who was in Leeds for the identity parade of Abdul.”

“Yes.” Lola confessed reluctantly.

“My god girl! You’re on first name terms with a Duchess no less now.”

“You met her briefly in that police canteen. She’s nothing like what you’d expect a duchess to be.”

“Well that’s true. So she’s agreed to put you up.”

“Yes. I phoned her this morning when I realised there might be logistical problems with the girls in Holland and Canal Cottage being compromised.”

“Has she said yes and does she realise the risks?”

“You bet. She’s tangled with Abdul before. Her house is really secure that’s when they captured Abdul up to his tricks before. They’ve even got a secure strong-room to hide in if they get attacked. Denton Hall is like a bloody fortress.

She’s even got her own security team. They normally work as tour guides, game-keepers and maintenance people employed permanently around the house and estate but if there’s any problems, they double up – and they’re good. Ex SAS some of them. I’ll be as safe with her as anywhere in the UK.”

“How can she afford all that man-power.” Bridie wondered aloud.

Lola grinned then wagged her head as she realised that Bridie only knew Callie to have spoken to her briefly in the police canteen. She knew almost nothing of Callie’s personal circumstances. She spoke softly as she enlightened Bridie.

“That girl owns half of bloody Yorkshire! – Well not quite, but you get my gist.”

“I’ll have to check with Inspector John.”

“Okay. Well I’m not going anywhere until Monday. For today I’m keeping Vigil with Bab’s, what time will the girls be coming to the hospital?”

“We’ll be there by eleven this morning. We’ll talk more about this then.”

“Okay. Bye for now.”

“Bye darling. Look after yourself and be vigilant.”

“You bet!” Lola finished as she pocketed her mobile and spotted the Surgeon Mr Jacobs, going to Bab’s Bedside.

She waited tactfully and discreetly in the annexe then made herself visible to him when she could see he was finished. Mr Jacobs looked up and smiled before motioning with his eyes to tell Lola to follow him. She did so and he took her to the ward sister’s office.

“I’m glad you have not informed her yet. Well done young lady.”

“Will it be safe to tell her at lunch time; her other daughters are coming back?”

“Yes, but not too much excitement. The ward sister will attend anyway. Bab’s is still very weak from loss of blood.”

“Does she need any more?” Lola asked as concern cracked her brave façade.

“No. She’s doing fine Lola. Give her a week and you can take her home.”

Lola did not mention that she was scheduled for her own surgery before then. There were enough problems to deal with. After Mr Jacob’s left, Lola shared a cup of tea with the ward sister and explained.

“I won’t be here next week; I’m going into hospital for my own surgery. I’ll have to organise care for Nan.”

“Oh dear, what’s wrong?”

Lola was reluctant to say after learning of how Erica had been treated concerning her revelation about her HIV status, but she decided there was nothing to lose.

“Uuhm, I’m the same as my nan. I’m going for my op on Monday and they’re operating on the Tuesday.” I’ll be out of action for at last a week, more likely two.”

The sister’s eyes widened with surprise.

“Good God Lola! You’re saying you’re transgendered!”

Lola nodded and shrugged self-consciously.

“Bloody hell girl! You’re good. I’d have never guessed.”

“Yeah, well that’s down to Bab’s fighting for my hormones when she found me trussed up in the black bags. She rescued me from a frozen gully in thick snow and ice so I owe my Nan everything. She understands.”

The sister was browsing through the notes that Mr Jacob’s had just annotated and she frowned.

“I see he’s put you down as next-of-kin. I thought the police brought her here as one of their patients under their protection.”

“She still is because of the shooting but after the blood thing they had my DNA checked. Technically, I am Bab’s next-of-kin. Long ago in a galaxy far, far away, she was apparently my grandfather.”

“Good God! So now you’ve got a relative. That must be reassuring; to find your roots that is.”

“It’s more reassuring to find I’ve got a relative that cares. I don’t see her as my grandfather, I still see her as my adoptive Nan. But it’s nice to find that we are blood.”

“How do you think your adoptive sisters will react?” The ever alert sister checked.

“It won’t affect or change anything. I’ll do my damnedest to see that nothing changes between us all.”

“Well done girl. Have you had your breakfast?”

Lola suddenly realised she was quite hungry.

ooo000ooo

Lola returned to Bab’s ward to find Gareth back on guard duty so they chatted very quietly because Bab’s was sleeping.

“What’s the situation down at Canal cottage?” She whispered to Gareth

“The cats are missing Bab’s but that surgeon Aaron and his family seem to have taken over their care. As to the security thing, we’ve found no evidence pointing to a direct security breach. The gang identified Bab’s from the court-cases and you girls always being around her. When they noticed she wasn't always with you, they decided to wait and ambush her at the courts.”

“So my thoughts were right.” Lola pressed.

“Pretty much. Anyway, capturing the shooters has given us an even deeper insight into the gangs. The connectivity between the gangs and the ‘Mr Bigs’ is being exposed more and more. We think we’ve got the big players nailed.”

“Will we ever be safe though,” Lola wondered, “you know me, Bab’s and the girls?”

“I should think so. We’ve dredged up an awful lot of filth and it’s pretty much broken the business here and in Europe. Turkey remains to be seen, but we’ve even got hopes there. The Turks are still pretty pissed at the killing of that reporter by the Saudis and Erica is one of their star witnesses concerning the trafficking of young girls for prostitution. She’s one of the only known survivors and she’s bloody lucky to be alive. We want to keep it that way!”

“Amen to that,” Lola agreed as she heard the distant sounds of the girls arriving with Bridie.

She put her head around the door and made a ‘shush’ sign with her finger to her lips then stood aside to let the girls gather silently around the bed. The ward sister appeared to check that Bab’s wasn’t unduly disturbed then retreated to her office.

Realising they would get little response from the sleeping Bab’s the girls turned to Lola for news. She explained that Bab’s was mildly sedated but not in a medically induced coma.

“Come down to the television room, I’ve got some news for you all.”

Curious, the girls and Sergeant Bridie trudged down the corridor and swept into the empty television room. Lola chose a chair by the large bay window and from her little shoulder bag she took several pages of a letter stapled to some technical readouts. The others pulled up chairs around the little coffee table and settled down to listen. Bridie, anticipating some important news, quietly closed the door then joined the group as Lola looked up.

“I’ve had some really odd but exciting news.”

She held up the top letter with the hospital heading on it.

“These DNA results from the university reckon that Bab’s was my grandfather.”

“What! Your real grand-dad?” Olivia almost squealed.

“Yes!” Lola confirmed.

“But she’s our nan.” Erica countered.

Lola paused as she realised that Erica, Angela and Olivia were not fully aware of Bab’s history. She now had to reveal the truth.

“Uuuhm, I shouldn’t really say this but Bab’s is like me. She’s tran’s and she had the op donkey’s years ago.”

“What! You mean our Nan was really a man once,” Angela pressed, just to be sure she had heard correctly.

“Yes, Nan – our Nan. She used to be a man; didn’t she Bridie?”

“I’m not sure you should have told them that.” Bridie censured Lola mildly. “That's Bab's private information. Does Bab’s know about this blood relationship connection?”

“I haven’t told her. I was told to break it to her gently.”

“Exactly Lola. I’m a bit angry with you for having told the girls before telling Bab’s. It’s her private information.”

Lola realised she had inadvertently ‘jumped-the-gun’ and went immediately to try and repair the damage.

“Shit! Shit, shit, shit. I’m sorry Bridie, I was so excited I -, well it's my indormation as well ”

She turned to the girls and begged them.

“Please don’t say anything to Nan until I’ve had a chance to sort this. The surgeon said the news might shock her and harm her.”

Bridie intervened yet again to try and sort the problem.

“It’s true girls, Mr Jacob’s the surgeon told me that as well.”

“But it’s good news isn’t it." Olivia pressed. "Lola’s found some real family and Nan’s got a real grand-daughter.”

“Yeah but Nan might feel guilty about the break-up all those years ago.” Erica pointed out.

“Well it’s our job to make sure that she doesn’t. We’ve got to congratulate her and make her feel good.” Olivia emphasised.

“Well first, Lola’s got to break the news to Nan and she’s got to ensure Nan that’s she’s glad she’s found family!” Angela added.

Erica reinforced the idea.

“Right Lola. We’ll stay quiet until you and Nan get your stuff sorted.”

“Thanks girls,” replied a tearful but relieved Lola as Bridie reached out to hug and reassure her.

“Do you want to do it now?” Bridie asked.

“I’ll see what the ward sister says. She seems to have a knack for this sort of stuff.”

The girls motioned to Lola to return to Bab’s ward and see what the situation was,

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 42 Copyright to Beverly Taff ©

List of Characters.

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington Bab’s university girlfriend.

Chapter 42

Lola’s mind was in a turmoil as she hurried along the interminably long corridor back to Bab’s room. Finally she found herself at the threshold to the ward and she hesitated nervously in the doorway as the ward sister looked up.

“Hello Lola,” she spoke softly, “your Nan’s awake now; what are you waiting for?”

As she stood composing herself, the sister recognised Lola’s nervousness and she stood up as Lola checked.

“I have to tell her about the news, you know; my being her real grand-daughter. I don’t want to cause her any distress.”

“D’ you want me to stay with you?”

“Yes, - please.” Lola agreed hesitantly before explaining. “The news might dredge up all the bad stuff from her earlier life and she might just come to see me as some sort of bad omen.”

“Have you told the other girls?” The sister asked.

“Yes. They’re sort of okay with it but I don’t know how they really feel – deep down that is. For all I know they might be secretly jealous and I don’t want that.”

“Well first things first. Let’s see how your Nan feels. If she gets upset, I give her something to calm her down.”

“You can’t knock her out. The girls will need to see her and speak to her. This stuff affects us all.”

“Well we’d best take the bull by the horns and speak to Bab’s. Come on, best foot forward.”

The pair stepped quietly into the room where Bab’s was necessarily lying on her stomach.

“Hello Nan, it’s Lola. No don’t struggle to roll over, you have to remain as you are for another day. We’re elevating the bed so that we’re face to face.”

While Lola settled in the chair, the bed slowly hummed as the sister operated the hydraulics and brought Bab’s face to face with Lola. Lola leaned forward and kissed Bab’s gently before taking a deep nervous breath.

“I’ve got some news for you Nan.”

“They’ve got the bastards who shot me.” Bab’s offered.

“Oh that’s old news Nana. I thought they’d have already told you that.”

“I’ve been pretty much out of it darling, so what’s this news?”

Lola could not think of a simple, gentle way to put it and a long explanatory preamble would just increase Bab’s frustration so she put it bluntly. Then quickly explained.

“I’m your grand-daughter Nana!”

“Well I know that darling, I’ve adopted you and the other girls. Well; except Erica, I’m still getting around to that. I -.”

“No Nana. I mean a real grand-daughter. You were my grandfather; well you still are but of course you’re my Nana now; - my nan.”

Bab’s frowned uncertainly. She was still a bit drowsy from the pain-killers.

“I don’t get you.”

“I am your real blood relative. Your daughter was my mother. The little baby you never got to see because of your trans thing, grew up to become my mother.”

“How do you know. How did you find out?”

Lola explained eagerly.

“When we four girls volunteered to offer blood for your op, the hospital discovered I’ve got an identical blood group to yours. The rare blood group was the starter clue but then they ran some more tests and they discovered that our other blood antigens were so close that the surgeon suggested we were possibly related. They gave me a DNA test and discovered that you and I are related.”

Bab’s fell silent as she pondered the issue then she finally spoke again.

“So; you’re Melissa’s baby.”
“Was that her name, Melissa?”
“Yes. That’s the only bit of information of information I ever received. The divorce was well progressed by then and I was denied access to her because of my transgendered state.

“Well that’s another step I never, never expected to take, discovering my real mother’s name. Melissa,” – Lola rolled it around her tongue.”

“It’s a nice name, - Melissa. Yeah, it’s a lovely name. Do you like it Nan?”

Bab’s choked a sob as painful memories returned to haunt her.

“I chose it darling. Your real grandmother and I had decided on the name before her relatives discovered I was transgendered. That’s when they started calling me a pervert and putting the pressure on her to divorce me. Your gran couldn’t withstand the pressure and eventually she had to choose, me or them. It was a no brainer. All the emotional support structures were with her family because my family were just as bad as hers and wanted nothing to do with me.

We separated and the last message I ever received was a letter telling me that I had a daughter and she was going to stick with the name Melissa because we both liked it. It was obvious her family were pressurising her and I never heard again. I suspect her people were intercepting her letters or something. Then I got a letter from somebody in the family that my ex-wife had moved and they were not revealing her address to me.

I was too emotionally drained to try and pursue the case and that was the very last I heard or saw of anybody from either sides of my marriage.”

Lola sat silent as she considered the information Bab’s had revealed. Finally she asked somewhat uncertainly.

“My being here doesn’t upset you does it; - you know, bad karma and stuff. Bad memories.?”

Bab’s gave a chuckle that sent a slight twinge through her back as the chuckle turned into a ‘belly-laugh’.
“What! Bad karma?! Good god no. You’ve been a breath of fresh air for me kid, as have Olivia and Angela. I think Erica’s also proving to be a half tidy kid even with all the shit she’s got in her life. No-oo girl, there’s no bad karma, anything but.

To tell the truth, I’m so over with my early life that it’s almost like a foreign country long dead and long past.”

Lola felt a wave of warm relief sweep through her body. Eternally grateful for Bab’s seemingly inexhaustible font of kindness, Lola reached in and kissed Bab’s full faced on the lips. When they separated Lola asked again.

“D’ you want to see the girls now?”

“I’d have thought you’d have all come together. Have you told them about us.”

Lola hesitated then decided it would be infinitely easier with as few secrets as possible. She lowered her head and softened her voice.

“Uuhm; sorry. I was so excited when I found out I felt I had to tell somebody and you of course were still out of it. It seemed alright to tell my stepsisters because it appeared to me to be their news as well as mine and yours.”

“Well, it’s spilt milk now. Go and get the girls, I’ve got something to tell them.”

In the television lounge Lola met with Sergeant Bridie and the girls to have a brief tactical talk before returning to Bab’s bedside.

“Was there anything that she was upset about?” Bridie checked.

“Not that I could see.” Lola replied before adding, “she wants to tell all of us something but she wants us all together.”

“Do you think she’s going to disinherit us,” Olivia asked, “you know; now that she’s got real family.”
“That’s a horrible question!” Lola protested. “But to tell the truth I’ve no idea what she wants to say. I can’t read Bab’s mind any more than you can. That’s so unfair!”

The normally confrontational Olivia unusually backed down a little as she made excuses.

“I was only voicing what Angie; Erica and I were thinking.”

Seeing another potential row erupting, Bridie stepped in again.

“Come on now girls, if we stand here arguing all day we’ll never find out what’s on Bab’s mind.”

With these words of caution de-fusing the tension, the girls trudged along the corridor to Bab’s room.

“Why do they make the bloody corridors so bloody long?” Olivia wondered.

“I reckon it’s to exercise the patients. You know after their wounds or injuries.” Angela replied.

“Yeah. It also helps you go ‘walk-about’ when you’re stuck in the rehabilitation ward all day. I used it just to stop going stir crazy.” Erica added.

When they reached Bab’s room right at the opposite end of the corridor, Erica looked back and grinned.

“I always reckoned you could land a bloody Boeing along here.”

With these words, the girls fell silent as they approached the IC ward. On arriving they found some activity in Bab’s room and they fretted uncertainly before the sister emerged to explain.
“They’re exchanging Bab’s bed for a vibrating, adjustable bed. She’ll be able to sit upright now for short periods.”
Olivia giggled and suggested to Angela quietly.

“We should get one of those Angie.”

Unfortunately the sister overheard her.

“They don’t do them in double sizes.” She riposted.

The ripple of amusement helped to lighten the mood and after watching Bab’s being lifted onto the therapeutic bed, the group engaged in a ritual hand cleansing before they eventually entered. It was inevitably the brassy, effervescent Olivia who spoke first.

“How’s your bum Bab’s?”

“Sore.”

Her curt, monosyllabic response quickly stifled Olivia’s irreverence so Lola re-opened the conversation with a reminder that Bab’s had something to tell them.

“What was it you wanted to tell us Bab’s?”

Bab’s cautiously adjusted the bed to lift her knees then motioned to her locker. Bridie opened it and Bab’s instructed her to produce the envelope.

“That is a standard, blank form for a last will and testament. I’m re-writing my will here and now, just in case there’s another attempt on my life.”

Lola looked around then asked.

“Shouldn’t your solicitor be here for this?”

“I’ve never had need of a family solicitor until now. The last family solicitor I dealt with was when I bought Canal cottage and that was a long time ago, over fifty years in fact. I still had hopes of one day meeting Melissa and handing the cottage onto her. That never happened and in the end I only ever dealt with commercial solicitors after that.”

“Have you never written another will since?” Bridie asked.

“Not a family will, not after buying Canal cottage. I’ve never had children before. Well, children I could see or visit or even get in touch with. I had one child called Mellissa and from what Lola has said, she ended up as a single mother: Lola’s mother and a disastrous mother to boot. Two generations of failed parenting.

No. I consider you four kids to be my last chance at putting things right. I would like you to contact Messrs Ball and Ball of Bristol. They are specialists in commercial and property law and they deal with all my holdings these days. Ask the lady partner Miss Sonia Ball to come to my bedside tomorrow. I have to put things right for all of you.”

It was Lola, probably because she felt compelled to reassure Olivia, Angela and Erica, who bluntly questioned Bab’s.

“What are your plans Nan. All I ask is that you treat us equally.”

“Of that you can be sure girls, all of you. My estate is to be divided up equally between you all except for two very important items that are dear to me.”

“What are they?” Olivia boldly demanded.

“Emotional things girl. Things that are truly a matter of blood and family continuity.”

“Oh I knew it. Blood comes into it inevitably.” Olivia continued until Erica shut her up.

“Shurr’up’ Ollie. Just rest that big mouth for once. Surely Babs is allowed some thing left from whatever family she ever had. We four most of all should know that. Anyway, when did you last see your egg donor?”

“Yeah! Shurr’up Ollie,” Angela added.

Angel’s support for Erica drove home the importance of what was being dealt with around the bed that day. It was unheard of in the family to see Angela cross swords with Olivia. Lola felt a little wave of secret relief that at least two of her sisters could see through the issues. A silence fell upon the room as Bab’s went on to elaborate.

“I dunno how much longer I’ve got in this life, or if there is anything else after it but I’m going to have to change my will. Here’s my phone Lola, Call Sonia Ball and let me speak to her.”

ooo000ooo

Bab’s New Year’s Resolution 43 ©

List of Characters.

Lola Smith Bab’s adopted trans daughter.
Callista Denton (Callie). Transgendered Duchess of Denton.
Margaret Denton (Maggie). Callie’s wife.
Molly Denton Callie’s grandmother
Ellie Denton Callie’s mother.
Bab’s Barbara Smith. Lola’s adoptive ‘Nana’
Olivia Smith Bab’s adopted daughter.
Angela Smith Bab’s newly adopted daughter
Erica Bab’s foster daughter.
Sergeant Bridie Davies Lady Police detective protecting the girls.
Sergeant Brian Davies. Bridie’s twin brother.
Inspector John, Heading up the anti-rape-gang operation in Birmingham.
Gareth Jenkins, Police office trained in firearms and protection.
Belinda Harrington Bab’s university girlfriend.

Chapter 43

Lola dialled and waited for a couple of seconds before a very brusque efficient voice answered.

“Hello. Ball and Ball.”

“Hello. Is that Sonia Ball?” Lola asked as she pulled her head away from the phone momentarily in surprise at the terseness of the reply.

“Yes.”

“I’ve got a Mis Barbara Smith on the line. We call her Bab’s and she wishes to speak to you.”

“Put her on please.”

Lola passed the phone carefully to Bab’s who immediately placed it on speaker; partly because it was difficult to lift her arm up to her ear and partly so that the girls could hear the conversation. When she lifted one arm up high it put a slight twist in her spine and even that tiniest of actions made her bum uneven amongst the pillows and caused her pain in the sacrum and pelvis.
Instead, Bab’s held the phone in the midst of her lap and everybody could clearly hear the conversation.

“Hello Sonia.”

“Is that you Bab’s?”

“Yes.”

“You sound weak love, are you alright?”

“No. I was shot in the lower back outside the courts and I’m in the IC ward at Queen’s Hospital.”

“Oh my God! It was you!”

“Yes. I need you here tomorrow, I’m sorting out my affairs for a final time.”

“It’s Saturday tomorrow! I’ll just have to sort out a couple of family arrangements. Will the afternoon do. Your life’s not in danger is it?”

“No of course not; and yes, the afternoon will be better than the morning. They tend to pull me about in the morning with therapy and stuff.

“I’ll be there. OH! And by the way what are the first and fourth letters of your password?”

Bab’s gave Sonia the letters and checked with Sonia who warned Bab’s.

“The girls will need to confirm their identities.”

“The girls looked up with concern but Bridie came up trumps.”

“We’ve processed their passports already in preparation for their European court appearances. Inspector John’s got them in the office safe in Birmingham. I’ll organise them right away.”

“Please. And thanks Bridie." Bab's replied, then added, "their birth certificates are down at Canal cottage by the way." She spoke to Sonia again.”

“Will they really need their birth certificates?”

“They will help as well. Who’s Bridie?”

“She’s the police sergeant responsible for protecting the girls.”

“Can I speak to her as well please?”

“Bridie reached over and took the phone from Bab’s and identified herself.

“Detective sergeant Bridie Davies here.”

“Ah that’s good, you’ll make an excellent witness to the will. I’ll bring along one of the office juniors to make up the numbers. As a full partner, I’m qualified to re-write Bab’s will in front of witnesses then my partners can write it up back here in the office on Monday. That’s all until tomorrow. Ask everybody to bring any other documents they’ve got that will identify them. Are you still their Bab’s?”

Bridie held the phone to Bab’s lips and she confirmed her presence.

“See you tomorrow my love.”

Bab’s sent a kiss down the phone and Lola smiled as Sonia returned the kiss..

“Oh she’s got a human side then.”

Bab’s just nodded, and smiled, then closed her eyes and prepared to sleep. The sister motioned to the girls that it was time to leave and the nursing team appeared from nowhere to rotate Bab’s gently onto her tummy again. Once she was on her tummy Bab’s called softly for Olivia who leaned in concernedly.

“What is it Nan?”

“Tell Lola I’m getting bored with the colour of this floor.”

Olivia let out a snort of amusement and as the others looked slightly askance, she explained the joke.

“Well her sense of humour seems to getting better.” Erica opined.

ooo000ooo

Saturday arrived true to form for Late August. Being statistically the fourth or fifth wettest month of the year, the last day of August could not break with meteorological traditions so it left the calendar in a deluge of biblical proportions.

“Can’t see anybody being stupid enough to come looking for us in this,” Olivia opined as the antiquated van’s windscreen wipers struggled do their job.

“Is this the best thing they had to tackle this sort of stuff?” Erica wondered as she felt water dripping on her arm. “Look the bloody thing leaks!”

"It's camouflage girls. Nobody would believe the police would use a wreck as old as this." Bridie explained. "We never expected it to rain like this."

“Let’s face it girls, a bloody submarine would leak in these conditions.” Angela chipped in.

“Blame global warming. More heat means warmer oceans, - means more convection, - means more clouds, - means more rain.” Lola explained as she finished sucking the toffee that Sergeant Bridie had handed around.

“It’s got armour plating girls.” Sergeant Gareth offered as the top heavy van swayed clumsily on its overloaded suspension. “Which would you prefer to be wet or dead.”

“We’ll be dead anyway if you have to swerve like that again in these conditions. Slow Down Gareth!” Bridie demanded.

“We’re late and that flood looked treacherously deep. I had to stick to the crown of the road.”

Despite the torrential rain, the mood in the van stayed cheerful and eventually they arrived at the hospital, grateful that they had direct access to a secure underground service area. As Gareth entered, two police that Gareth knew to be members of his same armed response unit, appeared and confirmed the area seemed clear. In the lift a third armed police officer joined with Gareth to escort them to Bab’s IC unit. While they scurried to the unit the third officer explained.

“This is just the sort of weather to organise an ambush. Everybody is scuttling about seeking cover with their heads down and eyes screwed up while squinting through the rain.. We’ve four extra armed officers on duty today.

They arrived at Bab’s bedside to see her now comfortably sitting upright and talking to a lady in a black tailored suite. Bab’s looked up, smiled and made the introductions. The lady stood up; identified herself as Sonia Ball then acknowledged everybody before returning to the large notepad she had spread out on the bed table. Lola immediately noticed the pre prepared title header; -

Last Will and Testament of Barbara Geraldine Smith.

‘I never knew she had a middle name.’ Lola thought.

Sonia then explained.

“My office junior has been delayed by the floods so Inspector John, who was here earlier, has gone to collect her and bring her in via a safer route through the back lanes. He’s left these for you girls because you’re going to need them in Europe.”

From her brief-case, Sonia produced four shiny new passports and the girls eagerly examined them. She also produced copies of their birth certificates. These served as valuable ice-breakers.

Lola held her birth certificate up and wondered aloud.

“I’ve never seen anything like this before. My original proper one is only an ‘A5’ sized page from a note pad.. This is like the Dead-Sea scroll.”

“That’s a ‘Full’ birth certificate Lola.” Sonia explained. “The one that you’ve always used is known a ‘short version’. You get your passport and pension rights much faster if you’ve got your full certificate.”

As Lola inspected the long 'A3' page she frowned and turned again to Sonia.

“Huh! It still doesn’t say who my father was. I’m no wiser.”

“Neither does mine,” Erica concurred. “I always thought my egg donor was a slag; this proves it.”

“Mine’s named,” Olivia observed, “but it makes no difference, I’ve never met him. What about you Angie?”

“He’s here but I only knew him for a few years and apparently he used to beat my mother up. She divorced him when I was about three or four and I was put on the ‘At Risk’ register. Eventually I was put into care and passed around like a fucking parcel.. Same shit, different toilet.”

Sonia sensed the cauldron of seething, accumulated hurt so she quickly changed the subject as Bab’s caught her eye. As a commercial and property solicitor, she had never had much to do with family issues and the degree of hurt fulminating around the bed took Sonia by surprise. Always being used to handling legal and financial issues as ‘cut-and-dried’ cases, she had to force herself to maintain her reputation for efficient, forceful, professionalism. To this end, she deftly lifted the first bundle of documents and briefly explained.

“Right Bab’s, this is a sectionalised list of all your holdings so I’ll discuss and describe the property holdings first.”

Sonia knew this would take at least half an hour or she could easily stretch it to an hour by just a precursory description of each building. This was to give Inspector John time to return with her office junior after avoiding the floods.

As Sonia read slowly through the list and estimated value of each building, the girls eyes grew wider and wider.

Lola, being the mathematician, quickly summated what she was hearing and the figures forced her to stand up and peer over Sonia’s shoulder. She saw the summation at the bottom of the page and had to bite her tongue.

'Bloody Hell! She’s richer than I thought.'

Eventually the inspector arrived with Sonia’s office junior and more chairs were placed around the bed. Sonia completed the property portfolio analysis then passed the data sheets to each of the girls and Bab’s. Naturally, the three younger girls’ eyes just fell upon the ‘bottom line’ evaluation but Lola found herself listening to Bab’s discussing specific items in the property list with Sonia.

Having a sharp mathematical brain and a pencil. Lola made a few discreet notes alongside the properties that had been mentioned by Bab’s then folded the page away as Sonia next turned to the second page listing share dealings and assorted promissory notes.

The same scenario played out with Olivia, Angela and Erica simply staring at the bottom line while Lola once again listened to and noted Sonia’s advises.

Finally the third page listed assorted other assets such as insurance policies, annuities and a substantial cash deposit in Bab’s bank. At the very bottom there was an item listing ‘Other holdings’ with a question mark against it. When Sonia finally came to it, she glanced askance at the girls while tapping the item thoughtfully, then she gave Bab’s a knowing look.

“Do you want me to address these items as well Bab’s?”

“Yes, but not here, not yet. Can you get me my handbag?”

The office junior reached into Bab’s bedside hospital locker, took out the bag and offered it to Bab’s who refused it.

“I can’t lift it or hold it, I’m too sore. Give it to Sonia.”

Sonia took the bag, opened it and found Bab’s house keys and car keys. Bab’s explained.

“In Canal cottage, behind my little desk under the stairs, you will find a bolted down, fire-proof, safe deposit box. It’s behind the riser of the first step of the stair and the wooden panel can be carefully lifted out. The panel is well hidden behind a pile of household appliances and cleaning materials. I want you to go there with your office junior and Inspector John then bring the contents of the box to me. Can you do that for me by tomorrow?”

“I’d prefer to do it this afternoon,” Sonia declared, “and bring it back this evening. Then I get Sunday free."

“Okay then,” Bab’s agreed. “You’ll find six reinforced envelopes and some jewellery boxes. Can you get them back here by this evening.”

Inspector John nodded and suggested they used his patrol car with the ‘blues-and-twos’.

With the arrangements hurriedly completed Bridie took the girls to a pub out in the country while Sonia and Inspector John speeded to the cottage.

“Do you know what the six packages are about.”

“No, but you heard her wishes, we are not to open them.”

“Curiouser and curiouser.” Inspector John grinned.

“Bab’s always was a cagey old dear,” Sonia added, “she first came to our offices when my grandfather was the senior partner, that’s nearly fifty years ago. For years she would only deal with my grand-dad then my dad and now me.”

“Have you any idea what might be in the envelopes?”

“No. Ours is to do or die. If Bab’s want’s to reveal all then she’s probably going to do so in the hospital bed this evening. Those girls are going to be quite rich.”

“Lucky little bitches,” the office junior opined. “All that wealth just falling in their laps like that. Hope they know how to appreciate it.”

Inspector John simply wagged his head and asked the young law graduate.

“Have you not been following this case Miss?”

“Well bits of it. Just the lurid headlines that the press sensationalise. I haven’t really been digging into the nitty-gritty. Our practice specialises in commercial law. I only came on board this morning when Miss Ball co-opted me.”

“Well, now that you have become involved, I suggest young lady, that you read the police reports and read the girl’s statements. I’ve got my own complete file copy in my office because I am the lead operational police officer for the British end of the investigation.

If you want, I can give you a much deeper insight into the case and believe me Miss. You will not be referring to them as ‘lucky’ when you read through the ordeals the girls have been through. Especially that poor kid Erica!”

ooo000ooo