MIKE JOHNSON - I started writing late in life. Age sixty four to be exact so I suppose that comes under the category: it’s never too late to learn! I’m English from the county of Yorkshire but moved to Spain in the year 2000. My writing career began after meeting other published author’s here on the Costa del Sol. My first novel; Dragon - written in long hand at first would you believe – was edited by my wife who I found was more than capable – and far less expensive – than the Publishers. The next two novels in the series; The Korean Connection and The Buddha in Ice followed soon after. It may be of interest to learn the wrap around front covers were designed by me, and illustrated by a local design company. You have no idea how cost effective that is for a first time writer self-publishing? In between these novels I began writing short stories: The Little Home on Wheels was one of them, but my readers wanted to know; what happened next? The story begins here in Spain in places I have visited and know well. THE LITTLE HOME ON WHEELS BY MIKE JOHNSON EPISODE 2 CHAPTER 5 It was early in the morning when the Moroccan family departed still expressing their thanks. They watched them go still wondering how they managed to travel with so much luggage piled on top of the cars. The coast road was only a few miles away. The sun had already made an appearance over the Mediterranean Sea as they travelled south. It was going to be another cloudless day and hot. John found a place to park then went in search of a supermarket. His supplies were seriously depleted. Fortunately after a few enquiries a mini-market was located nearby. With the groceries in hand he intended to cook a large breakfast for the both of them. He was just about to announce his intentions when he noticed Alex was fast asleep on the couch. Closing the curtains to block out the rising sun he thought a bit of shut eye was a good idea and opened the bedroom door, then closed it again just as quickly. A woman giving birth is a messy thing he decided. The floor will do just as nicely. Alex awoke late in the afternoon. It took a few seconds to get her bearings then another few more seconds to realise it was her that was smelling rather strongly ‘I think a shower is called for but first I must clean that bedroom’ she thought. Twenty minutes later John returned. He had already stripped the sheets and taken them to a laundrette close by. A nice woman in a caravan nearby had offered to take him in her car as she was ‘going that way’. He opened the bedroom door to find the place neat and tidy with the spare sheets already in place. Alex was obviously in the shower so he stored the plastic bag containing the cleaned sheets in a cupboard. Alex came out of the shower with a towel wrapped around her head and thankfully with another around her body ‘good morning’ she said brightly. ‘I think you mean good afternoon, thanks for cleaning the bedroom. I would have done it but I didn’t want to wake you’ ‘That’s the best sleep I’ve had in a long time and now I could eat the proverbial horse. What restaurants are close by?’ ‘There’s one on the beach not far away. I think you call them Cherryingitos but it’s not open until seven in the evening for some reason?’ Alex couldn’t help laughing ‘the Spanish call them Chiringuitos John but it’s near enough I suppose’ John just huffed ‘any way the food is quite good I’m told’ Alex made a decision ‘in that case why don’t we go for a swim in the sea?’ she decided glancing out of the window towards the sandy beach ‘the sea looks lovely and calm’ John agreed it was a good idea realising it had been a long time since he had done that recalling a family holiday long ago. They both changed into swimwear. Alex was polite enough not to giggle at the very floral shorts that John had not worn for over five years. ‘They were all the rage at the time’ he defended but feeling a little silly. Alex had a one piece swimsuit which basically showed every curve in her slim and athletic figure. She also swam like a fish but John matched her strokes as they raced out to sea and back. ‘I haven’t done this for a long time John, too long!’ she decided. ‘I know what you mean Alex’ he agreed thinking the same thing. It was early evening before they returned to the motorhome. ‘I think that restaurant should be open by now?’ John suggested. ‘Ok. Give me a few minutes to dress and we’ll go and find out’ John changed and then lounged in a chair outside waiting for Alex to dress. When she did the transformation was quite something. Gone were the faded jeans and baggy t-shirt of yesterday to be replaced by a very short and revealing black dress. Her hair was now tied up neatly in a bun. Her neck enhanced by a small pearl choker. He couldn’t help himself; the wolf whistle came out before he realised it ‘sorry that was uncalled for we aren’t on a date or anything’ ‘Oh!’ she asked ‘why not?’ The Chiringuito turned out to be an excellent restaurant. Alex gazed out across the Mediterranean Sea and sighed ‘we live on such a wonderful planet David so why do we do our best to mess it up?’ ‘Try asking an easier question like what is the meaning of life Alex but I think we need to remember there are more good men and women than bad in this world. I think you proved that today’ Alex smiled ‘it wasn’t the first baby I’ve delivered by any means but every child I help bring into the world is special to me’ David studied her as she was lost in thought. He was beginning to realise this woman was something special. He was also beginning to realise he was very attracted to her. ‘No!’ he told himself sternly ‘tomorrow she joins her family then we go our separate way’ Alex suddenly sat up and announced ‘I’m starving let’s eat!’ They both had Shrimps for starters. A Sea Bass was ordered for Alex and a Steak for John. The waiter sensing a more refined customer suggested a bottle of white wine not listed on the menu. They had kept the conversation light during the meal not wanting to spoil the evening but they both knew that wasn’t going to last. ‘That was delicious John thank you’ Alex said putting her wine to one side ‘now let’s talk!’ ‘Fair enough you go first’ ‘Ok what do you want to know?’ she announced expecting a question on why she was a doctor or something. ‘Why step-mother?’ She’d been expecting a question about how she became a doctor. She wasn’t expecting that and stopped herself from answering straight away ‘why do want to know about my family. Are you some kind of therapist?’ she asked delaying the response. ‘My mother divorced her first husband and married dad 3 years later so it’s not such an out of the way question. You’ve already told me your dad and your step-mother is here in Spain. You’re angry at them aren’t you?’ Alex clenched her teeth and stopped her-self from crying but it was too late. She grabbed a hanky from her purse and gathered her thoughts. ‘I was until today. I don’t know why but being with you has helped me think things through. When mum and dad divorced it wasn’t that unexpected really. It was all done without any fuss and I was never made to feel unwanted. They both re-married within 2 years and are both blissfully happy so why am I so angry at them?’ she asked. ‘I think you just answered your own question’ ‘You mean it’s because they are so happy?’ ‘Sure why not. When parents separate the child feels she should be the centre of attention?’ Alex frowned and thought back over the past two years. Much had changed in her life but both parents had done their best to make sure she was wanted and loved. ‘I’ve been a real bitch haven’t I?’ she said remembering the way she had treated both of them. ‘I need to realise wicked doesn’t always come before step-mother!’ I’m not sure about that’ he answered laughing at her confession ‘but I would be very surprised if both families are not very proud of what you have achieved’ ‘Wow you’re something else John Spencer’ she said already deciding her attitude would improve from now on. ‘Please start calling me John for heaven’s sake’ ‘Ok John it’s your turn. When is this R&R of yours going to end?’ ‘My holiday or Rest and Recuperation as you have put it has another week before I need to return home’ ‘That’s not what I meant by R&R John’ she replied looking directly at him ‘let’s try Recrimination and Regret instead!’ His question had shaken Alex, but her question had just hit him in the stomach like a lead ball. It wasn’t what he had been expecting either! She noticed his reaction and suddenly regretted asking the question ‘I’m sorry was that too personal?’ ‘No, and you have the right to ask it’ he answered looking thoughtful ‘and you’re correct I am running away but I guess it’s time to stop. I transferred to the Medevac division because I had a problem blowing people up in a very lethal Gun Ship. My superiors funnily enough where very understanding. My Captain said to me; you want to give up an armed Cobra for an unarmed Medevac. You must be crazy?’ Alex could imagine the scene he was playing out. ‘But he was right. Extracting wounded soldiers from a battlefield was no picnic especially when the enemy are still in the area shooting at you, but I was good at it. In fact I was very good. I had to learn revival techniques and battlefield survival but it all came really easy to me. I was also asked take other physiological tests that didn’t make any sense at the time until I was approached by a man from Military Intelligence. It was a job offer. Technically I would still be under military control but seconded to the Special Forces. It would mean dropping teams of SAS into hostile areas, then retrieving them later; hopefully without casualties’ ‘My god John that sounds very dangerous’ ‘Even more so when you consider the chopper would be unarmed. You see it was a matter of weight. The Recon Teams carry a lot of equipment’ ‘Did you accept?’ ‘I was still considering it when my parents were killed in a road accident. To say it knocked my confidence sideways is an understatement. The man told me to go away and don’t come back until my head was clear’ ‘It was good advice. So you went to home and bought a mobile home’ They looked at each other and burst out laughing ‘pretty dumb thing to do wasn’t it?’ ‘Oh I don’t know you met me!’ He was just about to respond when a polite cough came from behind ‘will there be anything else?’ asked the waiter in Spanish. They looked around and realised they were the last people in the restaurant. ‘We are sorry to delay you please bring the bill’ she replied in Spanish. John paid leaving a large tip as a thank you. The heat was abating thanks to the breeze. The moon was high in the night sky casting its glow on the sea. Holiday makers strolled arm in arm along the promenade. Crickets were making themselves heard. It was the perfect summer evening. He held out his arm, she took it without hesitation. ‘I think you should consider taking that offer to join the Special Forces’ she said suddenly surprising him ‘I have a feeling you’re beginning to miss flying those helicopters of yours?’ ‘Now who’s being the therapist?’ he grinned. ‘It’s probably the smile that you get when discussing them?’ she answered patting his arm. ‘But what will I do about the mobile home?’ he asked stopping and looking at her ‘I can’t just leave it in a car park and I’m not sure how to go about re-selling it in Spain?’ ‘Would you trust me to look after her?’ she asked him making a decision. John laughed. ‘What are you laughing at now?’ ‘You called the motorhome her’ he said still laughing and continuing their stroll along the promenade ‘if you’re sure it’s no problem?’ he asked seriously considering her proposition. ‘My family have a villa in the mountains with plenty of land. I can park it there no problem’ ‘Very well I accept’ he said making the decision and kissing her on the cheek as a thank you. ‘Is that the best you can do John Spencer?’ she asked moving into his arms. CHAPTER 6 Alex had contacted her father to explain she was on the Spanish coast but would not be arriving at the villa for another couple of days. They had stopped at Malaga Airport where John had booked a flight to London. He’d also contacted the man who had offered him the job with the Special Forces. He would join them as soon as he returned to the UK. Now the decision had been made he was eager to get started but he would miss the motorhome and also the woman he now considered a part of it. ‘Will you be staying in Spain for long?’ he asked Alex as the lay on the bed. ‘Why?’ she asked teasing him ‘Do fancy another vacation so soon?’ but also wondering if it was just a casual question. They had parked the motorhome on another camp site after leaving the airport. They had made love frantically and with passion. The time had passed to quickly for them. His flight was in four hours. ‘You know what I’m asking Alex?’ he said holding her arm. ‘Yes I do and the answer is yes but no commitments John. We both know how our lives can change from one day to the next’ ‘But I thought you were returning to London?’ ‘I will if the agency doesn’t want to keep me on’ ‘They must be crazy if they don’t. I’ve seen some good doctors in my time but none with your passion especially for the children’ ‘Maybe too passionate for my own good my father would say’ ‘I think I like the passionate side of you’ he grinned reaching for her again. She jumped out of bed ‘Oh no you don’t. The taxi will be here in another ten minutes. Time for you to complete that packing’ Alex waived him off trying her best not to cry but it didn’t work. When the taxi disappeared she sighed ‘I’m going to miss you John Spencer don’t get yourself killed or anything’ She turned to the motorhome and patted it affectionately ‘well old girl it’s just you and me until I can find you a new owner. Why am I talking to a camper van?’ she asked herself ‘sorry motor home’ she then said correcting herself and patting it again. CHAPTER 7 Alex parked the motor home at the entrance to her parent’s villa. They immediately came out to say hello. She hugged her father and her step mother, much to her surprise. ‘That looks like a fine motor home Alex but what are you doing with it?’ asked her father suspiciously. ‘It’s a long story dad but I will tell all later. The man who owned it has returned home to England’ ‘It looks like it needs a bit of a clean’ ‘Like I said it’s a long story, I don’t suppose you want to buy it do you?’ she asked innocently. Alex settled in for a few hours to gather her thoughts before contacting the Agency headquarters in London. Her Supervisor was a man called Henri ‘Alex at last I was beginning to get worried. If this is a confession by the way, please don’t tell me the details. I don’t want to know what happened in Monaco’ ‘Thanks Henri but that’s over and done with. I was just calling to say I have considered your offer and wish to stay with the Agency if the offer is still on the table?’ ‘Are you kidding after what you did in Africa of course it is? Have you been keeping up with the news by the way?’ he asked cautiously. ‘Not really I was rather occupied’ she almost sighed as she said it but stopped herself. She then suddenly became worried ‘what are you not telling me Henri?’ The pause made her even more concerned ‘the aid convoy didn’t get through. Fortunately, it was only one truck that was hi-jacked but the rest are stuck at the way-point. The African driver by the way is missing’ ‘Oh my God’ she gasped ‘the children in those villages will run out of food and medical supplies by the end of the month, what are you doing about it?’ The next pause said it all ‘I’m not sure if we can arrange another convoy until the situation is stabilized’ ‘We must do something Henri. If I have to I will jump into that mobile home outside and drive to Africa all by myself’ ‘Mobile home!’ he asked ‘what mobile home?’ Oh hell why did I just say that ‘it will take some explaining, actually it belongs to a friend’ ‘Well, would this friend be willing to let you borrow it for a while?’ he asked trying not to pry too much into her personal life which until now he wasn’t aware she had one. ‘Possibly’ she replied guardedly ‘that was just said off the top of my head Henri but I’m getting the idea you think it’s feasible’ ‘Give me 24 hours and will call you back Alex OK?’ ‘Fair enough 24 hours’ she said replacing the telephone. Her father had been listening in the background ‘that sounds interesting. Are you thinking of returning to Africa so soon?’ ‘The relief effort was only just supporting the influx of refugees from the neighbouring countries. I have to do something’ ‘You’re just one person Alex remember that. The charities are well-established organisations and know what they are doing. I’ve been there myself remember when I was not much older than you. Don’t make it personal or it will devour you’ Alex knew what her father was referring to. It was all too easy to let the injustice get to you. Her visit to Monaco had proven that. Very well she would stay professional and do what she was paid to do. She went outside intending to go for a walk but decided the motorhome needed a thorough clean. ‘Best get it done. It could be home for quite a while’ she thought smiling. Henri called late the next day ‘it’s taken some doing but fortunately we already had a convoy waiting to go. Can you be in Gibraltar in three days’ time?’ ‘Yes I think so but why Gibraltar?’ ‘Two Land Rovers with trailers are flying out from the UK but the military will only take us as far as Gibraltar. We’re trying out some new pre-packed trailers filled with medical supplies. It saves time having to start packing everything from scratch. They can be airlifted and dropped from a transport but we don’t have anyone on the ground to organise it. They’re all fitted with tow bars and wheels which means they can be taken by road. Has your caravan got a tow bar? ‘My Motorhome doesn’t’ ‘Never mind we can get one fitted in Gibraltar if we need to. The RAF engineers can beef up the suspension a bit at the same time!’ Alex should have argued the point but she didn’t ‘very well’ she just sighed. CHAPTER 8 Alex sat on the steps of the motor home and tried to keep calm but it was difficult. The two Land Rovers with their sealed containers behind them were parked next to her. It had taken nearly a week to get from Gibraltar to the port of Ceuta. The Land Rovers with the trailers had arrived within twenty-four hours but the people to drive them had not. ‘Sorry Alex but you will have to wait until your full team is assembled orders from head office and all that’ Henri apologised. ‘What do you mean by a full team Henri?’ she asked getting suspicious now. ‘Alex you are a brilliant doctor and a lovely person. We don’t want anything to happen to you over there’ ‘Thanks Henri but with all due respect I have been over there before you know and survived’ ‘I understand that but things have changed since you left. The rebels in the country have moved around quite a lot recently but why don’t you let mister Warner explain it all when he gets there?’ he told her remembering not to use the man’s military title. ‘I don’t suppose for one minute you’re going to explain who that really is are you?’ There was a polite cough at the end of the phone ‘It’s for your own protection Alex trust me’ Mister Warner turned out to be exactly what she thought he would be. ‘Let me guess Mister Warner. Ex-military possible SAS or something like that’ she asked when he introduced himself. ‘Very astute Doctor Trent but please call me Jack’ ‘Jack Warner?’ she repeated giggling. ‘Yes, the name does get that response sometimes’ he said arching his eyebrows a little. ‘Oh I’m sorry that was rude of me but it’s been very frustrating waiting all week for the team to arrive’ ‘I can imagine and no apologies necessary I assure you. A little humour is good for all of us. Come and meet the others’ he said indicating a group of people close by. The others turned out to be two French nurses; one an experienced mid-wife and the other a young nurse eager to do her bit for humanity; a man with same military baring as Jack; obviously of a military background; and a man of African origin that professed to be just an excellent driver. ‘You all seem to know each other have you met before’ she asked Jack. ‘Yes we have except Colene the new nurse. She worked with Sister Marie Del Carmen in the hospital near Leon’ ‘Sister Carmen, she’s a nun?’ ‘You wouldn’t think it to look at her would you?’ She knew what he meant. Sister Carmen may be a nun but at thirty years old she could still be called attractive. A pity the young nurse Colene hadn’t been touched by the same genes. Plain would be stretching it a little she thought unkindly. ‘You’ve probably guessed that Freddie is ex-military as well. Actually he was a military policeman here in Gibraltar for quite a while’ ‘And who’s the African gentleman?’ ‘Call him Congo and no; that’s not his real name’ he told her sadly. ‘He looks quite intelligent and speaks excellent English. In fact, I would say Oxford English?’ ‘Spot on doctor. He was educated in England but comes from an African family who I’m sorry to say are no longer alive. His wife and child were butchered in a raid by militants two years ago. The man has two Ph.D.’s would you believe and could work anywhere he wanted but applied to join Help-the-Children instead. The charity was glad to hire him. He’s a good man to have in a scrap but watch his mood swings!’ Alex studied the African. It was true he was highly educated with impeccable manners but there was something missing ‘losing your family like that must hard to bare’ she decided. Jack introduced her to the team. They all spoke English except Colene who constantly sought the help of the sister in translating even casual comments. Carmen as she would eventually call her had the patience of the proverbial saint and never once got annoyed. Jack had disappeared soon after he had introduced them eventually returning from his short trip as he put it with two more Moroccan men ‘Ok everyone let’s get going we have a long way to travel. Doctor Trent these two men will accompany you in the camper van; sorry motorhome!’ he said before she had to time to correct him ‘and help with the driving if that’s ok with you?’ ‘Please call me Alex for heaven’s sake and yes that sounds fine but the bedroom is off limits ok?’ she told the two men who shrugged of course a little embarrassed at the statement ‘oh sorry that wasn’t meant to imply anything!’ Jack was repressing a grin as he told her ‘you have a way of putting your foot in it Alex but like I said before a little humour is very welcome. The two men by the way are part of the Kings personal bodyguard so you can trust them to behave. They’re only with us until we reach the Western Sahara so I should let them do most of the driving?’ Alex took his advice. It was a chance a too study the landscape and the people. She had visited the port many years ago on a weekend trip with her parents. She had not been impressed and a quick sortie around the bazaars had not changed her opinion of the place. ‘It seems to be stuck in a time warp’ she thought wandering the narrow and sometimes steep alley ways. It wasn’t advisable to go alone she had been told but after two years working in a remote hospital in Mauritania this was no problem. Funnily enough she never felt threatened or uncomfortable. Even the swarms of young beggars left her alone. The convoy with the motorhome in the lead as the Moroccan drivers obviously knew the roads well, left the port and followed the A4 then the A1 south down the coast. As they left the port behind she was amazed at the construction work that had happened over recent years. On both sides of the road huge apartment blocks had sprung up but thankfully most of the cranes had been taken away. Every one of them however was vacant and unfinished. She tried to estimate the units in one large block ‘there must be nearly one thousand apartments’ she calculated ‘what a waste!’ Spain had suffered during the recent down turn in the economy but at least they were showing signs of recovery. In a way it had been a good thing she once told a friend ‘houses are homes were people live and bring up a family. The speculators and greedy estate agents have made that impossible for the average family to attain. The banks with their irresponsible lending should be ashamed of themselves’ Away from the port her opinion of Morocco began to change and she scolded herself for being so narrow minded. By the time they had reached Rabat she was in love with the place and decided to find out more about the country. Morocco, a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian and European cultural influences. Marrakesh’s walled medina, a maze like medieval quarter offers entertainment in its Djemaa el-Fna square and souks (marketplaces) selling traditional ceramics, jewellery and metal lanterns. The capital Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas is a12th century royal fort overlooking the water. Hmm she wondered ‘if we get to Rabat early enough I should check the place out it sounds interesting, maybe I should have asked my two drivers where to visit?’ she thought then realised something. They had not spoken a word since they joined the party. She asked Jack about it later in the evening ‘my two passengers aren’t what you’d call talkative is it a cultural thing or something?’ He pulled her gently to one side ‘like a said earlier they’re part of the Kings personal bodyguard. To stop them from telling tales they’ve all had their tongues cut out!’ ‘Oh my god are you serious that’s disgraceful!’ she cried all indignant and offended at should barbaric cruelty. She continued her ranting until she noticed Jack almost doubled up on the floor in hysterics. ‘You’re a terrible person Jack Warner’ she shouted then broke into a fit of laughter herself already seeing the funny side. ‘Like I said Alex a bit of humour is most welcome’ he said moving away to tell the others what had just happened. Alex did manage to see some of the Capital accompanied by the two women and one of the bodyguards who explained it wasn’t acceptable to be on their own. ‘It seems your Moroccan driver has found his tongue Alex’ Sister Carmen ribbed her. ‘I’m never going to live that down am I?’ she moaned. As they wondered around the town it was a chance to talk and get to know the two nurses. ‘I understand you have been to Africa before Carmen?’ she asked. ‘I was recently in Senegal when the Ebola virus struck. It is something I hope never to see again in my lifetime Alex I assure you’ ‘Pray to god it doesn’t return’ she answered then realised what she had said ‘oh sorry Carmen that wasn’t offensive was it?’ ‘Of course not Alex and I also pray to god it does not’ she answered smiling her companion’s choice of words ‘and if you do ever want to pray then let me know I do have some experience in that matter’ ‘I keep putting my foot in it don’t I?’ ‘You speak your mind without fear or prejudice Alex. It’s most refreshing so please don’t stop’ ‘Thank you Carmen’ ‘There’s one thing I’m intrigued about though’ ‘Oh what’s that?’ ‘How did you come by the motor home? It’s not something I would expect a young woman all on her own to purchase especially someone working for a charity based in Africa?’ ‘I could say it’s a long story but in truth it’s not’ she said thinking now what to say ‘the truth is the motorhome doesn’t belong to me. In fact, the owner doesn’t even know it’s here in Africa’ ‘What will he say when he finds out?’ ‘How did you know it was a man?’ she asked. ‘Probably something to do with the wistful look you get when you talk about it. So who is he?’ ‘His name is John Spencer and he’s a pilot, helicopters not airplanes. We met just recently near Granada. I had just lost a very expensive Mercedes car down a ravine, not mine by the way. He gave me a lift down the mountain. We rescued a family from a forest fire and then delivered a baby near the coast. We talked we made love and he left!’ ‘Wow you do lead a very adventurous life don’t you?’ Carmen told her ‘will you meet him again soon?’ ‘Not very likely I’m afraid he could be anywhere in the world by now’ ‘Well; you need to remember something’ ‘Oh what’s that Carmen?’ she asked frowning. ‘God works in mysterious ways or so I’ve been told’ she told her smiling. CHAPTER 9 The two Moroccan drivers left them sooner than expected. On reaching El Argoub on the coast news came through of refugees descending on a town called Awsard. The officials in the coastal town had been informed by their government that a convoy carrying medical supplies would be travelling through the region and not to delay or harass it any way; but they needed help and quickly. Jack was escorted to the town’s government building. The officials explained the situation and asked for help explaining it would take a few days to get a relief column to the area. A day later they arrived in Awsard. The number of permanent structures in the region is low; as many residents follow the traditionally nomadic Bedouin lifestyle of the Sahrawi’s passing through the town only temporarily and living in tents. The tents that Alex was looking at however had no connection to the Bedouins. These were refugees. ‘Doctor if you are thinking of going through that encampment then Freddie or myself need to accompany you’ ‘Then I suggest you hurry up we’re leaving’ she announced already walking away from where they had parked, Maria Del Carmen and Colene following behind her. Jack cursed under his breath and grabbed a radio then ran to catch up with them. Within half an hour a tent had been requisitioned and a triage set up. Another half an hour later a queue of people many of them women clutching babies were outside. Jack kept his distance and surveyed the area. He did not think the women were in any danger but it was his and Freddie’s job to keep them safe. Congo the African was kept busy going backwards and forwards to the trailers for medical supplies. It was not until the early morning that the two women decided they should take a break. The young nurse would look after the few non urgent patients still remaining. Alex suggested she slept in the motorhome. Within five minutes of making up the beds they were both fast asleep and snoring loudly. For the next two days they were kept busy until thankfully a relief medical team arrived to take over. ‘We need to get moving’ Alex told Jack ‘the people in the village I left will also be needing help and supplies. Have you managed to contact the hospital yet?’ Jack looked at her. She had hardly slept for three days but the fire and determination was still there. She had delivered babies, operated on children and adults alike in the crudest of conditions but it had all been done without complaint. It was no wonder the charity wanted to keep her on full time. ‘You had better sit down Doctor I have some bad news’ he told her. She didn’t need to be asked twice and slumped into a folding camp chair ‘what’s wrong Jack?’ ‘We haven’t been able to contact the hospital or anyone else in the area’ he waived Congo over ‘please tell the doctor what you’ve learned’ ‘I’ve been talking to some of the refugees’ he began ‘they know me and trust me, one or two are even from my homeland. It seems the rebels have left their usual territory and have moved east. The government forces have made it uncomfortable for them and they are looking for easier ways to survive’ ‘Are you saying they’ve already reached the village and the hospital?’ ‘I cannot be certain of that but they would make an easy and potentially lucrative place to attack’ ‘The medical supplies would be much sought after not to mention the women and children. I don’t need to explain what would happen to them do I?’ Jack asked her. Alex just shook her head. ‘I’m due to contact London for an update. I’ll let you know their decision whether we go on or not’ Alex jumped out of her seat ‘you can contact who you like but I’m pushing on to the village. I can be there in 2-3 days; unless there’s a way overland from here?’ ‘The Land Rovers could do it but not the motorhome. The charity won’t like it if they order us to return and we don’t’. We are driving their vehicles and supplies remember’ ‘But the motorhome belongs to me’ or a friend at least she thought but didn’t add ‘and I’m going on. I can take as many supplies as you allow me?’ ‘Wow there!! Let’s not jump the gun doctor. I didn’t say I wasn’t going with you but if I do and they order me back my job is on the line’ ‘If you need to return boss I’ll go with her’ Freddie called out. ‘So are we’ added Carmen. ‘You’re going to need my help if things get tricky doctor so count me in’ Congo also called out. ‘Ok!! I get the picture. Let’s get packed away and head out. There is no way we can go overland so it’s back to the coast then it’s down the N2 motorway to Nouakchott. We then head inland on the N3 as far as it goes to Nema. Let’s hope there’s still a village and hospital waiting for us when we get there?’ TO BE CONTINUED
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MIKE JOHNSON - I started writing late in life. Age sixty four to be exact so I suppose that comes under the category: it’s never too late to learn! I’m English from the county of Yorkshire but moved to Spain in the year 2000. My writing career began after meeting other published author’s here on the Costa del Sol. My first novel; Dragon - written in long hand at first would you believe – was edited by my wife who I found was more than capable – and far less expensive – than the Publishers. The next two novels in the series; The Korean Connection and The Buddha in Ice followed soon after. It may be of interest to learn the wrap around front covers were designed by me, and illustrated by a local design company. You have no idea how cost effective that is for a first time writer self-publishing? In between these novels I began writing short stories: The Little Home on Wheels was one of them, but my readers wanted to know; what happened next? The story begins here in Spain in places I have visited and know well. THE STUDENT BY MICHAEL JOHNSON CHAPTER 1 Daniel Stretch walked smartly along the corridor of the school; it would not do to be late on his first day. The Headmaster was, apparently, a stickler for time keeping. The door marked Jonathan Church – Headmaster; was closed so he entered an office next door to announce he had arrived. A row of chairs where placed alongside a wall outside the office, he sat down to wait. The young boy at the end of the row sat and fidgeted, it was obviously not his first time in front of the Head, he thought looking at him. The boy turned seeming to sense he was being observed ‘you’re a bit old to be in trouble if you don’t mind me saying so?’ he grinned cheekily. Daniel laughed at the boy’s boldness ‘you could say that but I guess this is not your first time?’ He shrugged, as if to say he didn’t know why either ‘I was suspended for disruptive behaviour, whatever that’s supposed to mean. This is my first day back?’ ‘Don’t tell me, it was all a misunderstanding; is that about right?’ he said getting interested in what he had actually done to be suspended. The boy looked fairly intelligent and didn’t seem like the average rebel without a cause. ‘Singing!’ was the boys reply. ‘What! You were suspended for singing?’ ‘Yes can you believe it?’ Daniel looked at him a little dubious as to the explanation. There must be more to this story he decided ‘come on then, tell me the rest of it’ The boy grinned knowing he wasn’t going to fool this one ‘I had my headphones confiscated twice, but how can I practice otherwise. The final is next week and I’m nowhere near ready’ ‘Ok I’ll bite, ready for what?’ ‘The Karaoke final. The first prize is fifty quid would you believe that?’ ‘And where is this final being held?’ ‘Someplace near home’ he answered evasively. ‘If you’re going to be evasive then it’s a waste of time telling me anything’ Dam this one really can’t be fooled can he ‘It’s being held in a Conservative Club, but its ok my mum works there at night sometimes’ he said by way of an explanation. ‘Ok that doesn’t sound too bad I suppose but you still haven’t explained why you have been suspended’ The boy sat back and decided he may as well tell him the rest of it ‘well, I think I’ve got the song down to a tee as they say, but without hearing it through a microphone I’m not sure how it comes across to an audience. So one lunch time I sneak into the main Hall and use the PA system. The trouble was I didn’t realise it was being broadcast all over the school?’ Daniel couldn’t help himself he burst into fits of laughter. The laughter was infectious so the boy started laughing as well; just as the headmaster opened the door. ‘Good heavens what is going on?’ he asked angrily. Daniel jumped up quickly ‘sorry headmaster this is all my fault, this young man just told me a funny story’ he said winking at him. ‘Well Mr. Stretch not a good start but I suppose you are here only temporary while our Mrs. Bates has her maternity leave, please come on. Timothy Steele you may join your class mates’ he said dismissing him. So that was the boy’s name ‘what was the song by the way?’ he whispered before following the headmaster. ‘Yesterday’ he whispered back ‘It’s a Beatles competition’ CHAPTER 2 1815 AND ALL THAT ‘Good afternoon class my name is Daniel Stretch and before we go on, I have heard all the jokes about my name ten times over. I will be taking over from Mrs. Bates while she is on maternity leave. I have looked at her notes regarding your progress so far but I would prefer to start something new while I’m here’ he announced, hoping the headmaster was not going to hear of it too quickly. That got the students interest, Mrs. Bates was a traditionalist in terms of her teaching methods. ‘First of all who can play an instrument of any kind?’ A few tentative hands went up. ‘Ok, I will talk to you individually over the next few classes, don’t worry I won’t be asking you to perform in front of the class. Now, who likes to sing?’ he asked purposely ignoring the hand of Timothy Steele. ‘Come on now surely someone would like to perform on stage in front of the ex-factor judges?’ he asked again ignoring the hand that was practically grabbing him. Eventually he pretended to notice the young man who was now blushing a deep red knowing he had been had. ‘Hah, Tommy Steele isn’t it?’ he asked desperately trying not to laugh. The rest of the class had just got the joke and started to snigger at the boy’s embarrassment. ‘Sorry Timothy Steele I should have said’ he grinned. He let the class have their fun for a while, it was important they should connect with him, music was a very personal and individual thing and needed careful grooming. Daniel knew the school curriculum regarding music. It was just seen as another examination to be passed, if anyone showed musical ability along the way so be it. One option had been dismissed by the last teacher, which in his mind was a sacrilege, one that he was about to put right. ‘Please settle down class thank you’ he asked raising his hand ‘now; if I said 1815 what would that mean to anyone?’ ‘It’s late and we should have gone home ages ago!’ one boy quipped starting the laughter all over again. He let it continue for a while ‘that joke is nearly as old as the date’ he smiled ‘so anyone else?’ He waited ‘what if I gave you a few more clues; guillotine -Paris - opera’ A boy put his hand up ‘Isn’t that the French Revolution sir?’ he asked all eagerness. ‘Well done it is indeed the French Revolution but what is it in terms of music? Daniel looked at Timothy who he was sure wanted to answer the question. I hope I haven’t embarrassed him too much and have stopped him coming forward. ‘Timothy have you any ideas?’ he asked. The boy realised his teacher was trying to undo his embarrassment so he answered ‘1812 is at the end of the French revolution, which is where Les Miserables the musical is based upon’ The whole class looked at him astounded by his knowledge. ‘Go on’ his teacher asked. ‘There’s lots of songs but I don’t know what they are talking about?’ ‘I see, the songs are more like talking I suppose in many ways, not very lyrical I do accept’ ‘No sir I mean the words were in a different language – French. My mum got screwed by the lucky-lucky man on holiday last year’ The whole class was in uproar, even Daniel couldn’t help laughing at that one. Daniel didn’t mind, he was loving the attention ‘Do you hear the people sing singing the song of angry men this is the music of the people who will not be slaves again…….’ He suddenly began singing in French. Daniel continued singing completely unaware the whole class was listening to him. ‘My god the boy is almost pitch perfect’ Daniel gaped ‘and in French too?’ Eventually he realised he was on his own and stopped suddenly, the whole class began to applaud him, which completely dispelled any embarrassment. The class continue with almost all the students getting interested in the story of the French Revolution and Les Miserables. As the students left he called back Timothy ‘that was an impressive performance young man but I’m curious. Where did you learn to speak French surely not from the tape your mum bought?’ ‘Yes sir I loved it, but please don’t tell my mates that they think it’s a bit sissy’ ‘I understand but tell me would you like to speak French properly?’ ‘I wouldn’t mind but none of the teachers here teach it?’ ‘Well, as a matter of fact I do, so if you want to stay after class two or three times a week I would teach you’ The boy considered that for a moment, staying after school usually meant detention ‘ok but I need to ask mum if it’s ok to be late home’ As it turned out the lessons ended up being three times a week with the proviso the teacher would make sure her son got home safely. At nearly sixteen that didn’t go down too well with Timothy. The headmaster agreed in principle but suggested he was wasting his time ‘the boys disruptive that’s all there is too it but go ahead’ he had said. After 4 weeks of tuition his student had learned all the basic vowels and was putting phrases together. There was much reference to Les Miserables and what was being spoken. Then after 8 weeks something seemed to click inside Timothy’s head, from then on he began thinking and talking in French with ease. One evening Timothy was singing A Little Fall of Rain from the opera. Two female teachers passing by the room stopped and listened to the song, it was enchanting so they went in to the classroom just at the song finished ‘wasn’t that Michael Ball on your music just then, I love his singing’ one of them asked. Teacher and student just grinned ‘actually that was Timothy you were listening to, but Michael Ball thanks you anyway’ ‘Oh come on now Mr. Stretch we are too old to fall for that one’ she said shaking the head and tutting. ‘Why don’t you two ladies take a seat, and we’ll see if we can change your minds’ ‘Timothy, how about empty chairs and empty tables seeing as our guests like Mr. Ball so much?’ Timothy nodded and began, for some reason having an audience was going to make it much more fun. Half way through the song the two women were trying not to show the emotion they were feeling as they became enthralled in the performance. On the last note they both stood up and applauded ‘we apologise young man for doubting you that was incredible’ The next day the talk was all about the young man who had learned French and was speaking like a native and a voice to die for, as the two ladies put it. Daniel was more than pleased with his efforts but where to now. The boy had serious talent there was no doubt about that. The answer came unexpectedly. The headmaster welcomed him into his office ‘Daniel come in, sit down, would you like a drink or something?’ he asked all smiles and bonhomie. ‘A little different from the last time I was here he thought ‘I’m fine headmaster what can I do for you?’ ‘Well we have a little problem and I was hoping you could step into the breach as they say. I understand you speak fluent French, of course you do?’ he said dismissing his own question ‘do you know about the school trip next week?’ he suddenly asked. ‘Err, not really headmaster it seems to be a taboo subject in the staff room’ ‘Yes, yes I realize that, a few of the staff got a bit miffed at not being included but there were only a certain number of places’ ‘Maybe you should ask your question headmaster?’ he said suddenly getting an idea as to what he was going to ask him. ‘Twelve students from the upper school and twelve from our school have been chosen to visit Paris on an exchange visit. Mr. and Mrs. Tilly from the upper school where ideal candidates to organize the trip as they both speak French. Their daughters where due to go with them by the way’ ‘Were due to go with them?’ he asked. ‘Well one is still going but the other is in no state at the moment she has taken it all very badly’ Daniel waited for the story to unfold. ‘Mr. Tilly was discovered with a senior student in a compromising situation, all very seedy I must say but hormones and all that?’ he shrugged. ‘What Mr. Tilly’s?’ he asked trying not to smirk. ‘Tut!’ ‘Tut’ ‘Mr. Stretch this is no laughing matter’ ‘Sorry headmaster but it’s not the first time and it won’t be the last time this has happened will it?’ ‘Well I’m afraid Mrs Tilly has thrown the man out of the house as is threatening divorce proceedings. The Paris trip is obviously a no-no’ ‘Are you asking me to take over?’ ‘Well that would be the ideal solution you speaking French and single’ Daniel considered the request or a moment ‘I agree on one condition’ ‘That’s wonderful anything you want please ask’ ‘Timothy Steele must accompany me’ The headmaster was about to argue but realised the request was genuine and he had to admit the young man had seemed to change for the better recently ‘very well I agree’ Timothy came to his lesson as usual. ‘Don’t sit down we need to go and see your mum, will she be at home now’ he told him. ‘Yes sir she is’nt working this evening, have I done something wrong?’ he asked concerned. ‘On the contrary, but let’s see your mum first ok?’ Mrs. Steele turned out to be a very charming and attractive women Daniel decided as they sat down across a table. ‘It’s nice to meet you at last Mr. Stretch, Daniel never stops talking about you’ ‘Thank you Mrs. Steele but please call me Daniel’ ‘In that case my name is Sarah’ Nice name as well he thought deciding she really was an attractive women ‘do you know what I have been teaching your son over the past few weeks Sarah?’ he asked. ‘I believe it’s been French and you have done a magnificent job Daniel’ she answered in French. ‘You speak French?’ he asked astounded ‘dam that sounded wrong I apologise’ ‘No it is I who should apologise to my son for not teaching him my second language sooner. You see his father came from Leon but left us soon after my son was born. His family didn’t approve of our marrying. It’s only recently that I’ve realised he should have known who his father was and where he came from. Not speaking French was my way of blocking the memory of what could have been’ she told him ‘When I learned what you were doing I became most ashamed’. Timothy felt no anger towards his mother, his love was unconditional in that direction ‘it doesn’t matter mum honest, it’s in the past’ She looked at her son and suddenly saw a young man on the verge of manhood. It was all too much ‘please excuse me!’ she said rushing into the kitchen. Daniel stopped her son from going after her ‘she’ll be fine Timothy trust me’ Sarah returned carrying drinks and biscuits ‘all very English’ she smiled now fully in control again ‘so what is it you wish to ask me Daniel?’ He was tempted to ask for a date but restrained himself ‘I’ve just been asked to take over an exchange trip to Paris and want Timothy to join us’ Timothy almost jumped out of his seat ‘Paris do you mean it, Mum, Paris can I go?’ he asked suddenly realising his life now depended on his mum. ‘I assume he has a passport?’ ‘Yes Daniel he has and of course he can go but what will it cost?’ she asked concerned it may be too expensive for her, being a single mother. ‘Actually nothing, all he will need is some spending money and he’s good to go’ ‘Yahoo!’ came the response from the table ‘wait till Aunt Hilly hears about this. Can I go and tell her?’ ‘Yes go. Let me and Daniel work out the details’ she said as he shot out of the door. ‘I assume Aunt Hilly is close by?’ ‘My sister lives just down the street, I don’t know what I would do without her’ Daniel was desperate to ask why such an attractive and intelligent women was still single but decided that was for another time ‘Timothy told me about the disc you bought from the Lucky-lucky man on holiday. He thought you had been conned, now I see it was intentional’ ‘In the back of my mind I guess I wanted him to listen to the music and the language. I used to speak French to him when he was young and sing lullabies to get him to sleep. It was only later on when he was growing up I stopped, it seems some of it stayed there?’ ‘Now I know how he picked up the language so quickly, his accent is very Parisian you know that?’ ‘Yes I listened to him practising. You know he never once asked for my help’ ‘Maybe he knew it would make you sad?’ Sarah considered that for a moment ‘he is a very sensitive young man now isn’t he?’ ‘And a very talented one, his pitch is perfect when he sings. We must encourage him to continue maybe even attend a music academy?’ ‘That would be nice but I’m a single mum and only a secretary, even working the odd evenings it’s hard sometimes’ ‘I understand but keep it in mind at least. Well I should be off!’ ‘Thank you for all the tuition Daniel you are a wonderful teacher’ she told him. ‘Don’t mention it and thanks for the tea, maybe we can do this again sometime. Err I mean to iron out the details of the trip and all that’ he said just realising what he was asking. Sarah knew exactly what he was asking ‘maybe next week before you disappear to Paris and all that romance over there’ she said teasing him. ‘Oh no not me, too much responsibility looking after the children’ he said realizing he was stammering a little. ‘Very well I suppose you had better leave the romance until you return then?’ Daniel was unsure how to respond so decided to just say goodbye, when he was outside and in his car he realized his heart was beating like a racing car engine. CHAPTER 3 PARIS Timothy was grateful he was sat next to at least one friend on the Air France jet to Paris. He had tried to be polite and friendly to the others from his school but they looked on him as an interloper, only there because he was friendly with the music teacher. ‘Teacher’s pet’ was uttered more than once. The students from the upper school were only slightly older but could have come from a different planet. They all had that superior ‘we are older than you’ attitude and refused to integrate. His friend Mikey whispered beside him ‘that’s the daughter of the two teachers who were supposed to be organising the trip. Got caught with his pants down’ he snickered pointing to a girl sat in the opposite seat. ‘What’s her name?’ ‘Catherine I think they said why?’ ‘She looks a little sad to me?’ ‘Wouldn’t you be, knowing the whole school knows what her dad was up to?’ ‘Still it’s not her fault’ he said looking across at her. He decided it was time to make friends ‘hello’ he said leaning over ‘my name is Timothy but my friends call me Timmy’ ‘And why is that of interest to me?’ she asked looking up from the book she was reading. ‘Well we are all going to Paris together and I thought it would be nice to get to know one another. By the way I’m sorry about your parents it must be a bummer at school’ Catherine slammed her book closed and was just about to lambast the stupid person across the aisle when something stopped her. She realized it was not meant as slight, but was genuinely meant ‘thanks’ she said then returned to her book. Half way into the flight the cabin crew made sure their young passenger was all well ‘Hello Mademoiselle are you looking forward to your trip to Paris?’ she asked Catherine. Her passenger seemed to be keeping herself to herself and ignoring the people around her, most unusual in one so young she thought. ‘Thank you I’m fine, and I have been to Paris before thank you very much’ she replied in fluent French. ‘Hah, you speak French very well. You will have a good time I am sure, especially with such handsome young men as these around’ she said nodding in their direction. ‘I doubt they would know how to treat any female properly, unlike men in your country’ she sniffed. ‘I see, a woman of experience but I think this one would be worth a little help in that direction don’t you think?’ Catherine glanced across at Timmy who seemed to be ignoring the conversation, not that he would understand a word they were saying she thought ‘I very much doubt it’ she said shaking her head. The stewardess returned to her station at the front of the plane. Timmy wanted a toilet brake but as he was passing he smiled at the hostess ‘if all the women are as beautiful as you in Paris then I will look forward to increasing my experience’ he said in French then grinning at the shocked look on her face. HOTEL - NEAR PARIS The first two days of the visit was taken up visiting schools and local museums. The French students were welcoming and friendly. Timmy didn’t see Catherine again for over three days but when he did she still had that sad look about her. Her fluent French had not gone down well with her classmates who saw her as snobbish and conceited. She had therefore kept to herself. The fourth day was a rest day. The hotel sported an outdoor swimming pool and as the afternoon was hot and sticky no encouragement was needed to strip off and dive in. ‘Timothy are you enjoying yourself?’ asked Daniel. ‘You bet sir this is brilliant’ he beamed happily. ‘Well, I couldn’t say anything earlier but I have tickets for a theatre in Paris. Do you want to go and see Les Miserables being performed on stage?’ ‘Are you serious of course I do’ he laughed. ‘Then we leave at 7pm ok?’ Timmy had an idea ‘sir how many tickets do you have?’ ‘Just two but I can order more if any of the others wish to go?’ ‘Can you give me a minute’ he said slipping on his t shirt. Catherine was sat by herself seeming oblivious to the others but inside she was hurting. Her friends had deserted her and she felt alone, something she would never admit to. Timmy approached and sat down beside her. He didn’t want the rest of the students to hear what he was about to say so he spoke in French ‘Mr. Stretch has tickets to the theatre tonight to see Les Misrables and I thought you might like to join us. The play will certainly match your mood, maybe we could even borrow the guillotine to chop off some of your friend’s heads?’ At first she was shocked to hear his fluent French then his quip about her friends sank in, she burst out laughing much to the stares of those around her ‘I would love to join you, and thanks’ The play was everything Timmy imagined. Catherine caught his happy mood and started to enjoy herself as well. At the interval the three bought drinks and wandered around the room looking at the pictures and paintings on the walls of the theatre. One poster carried a picture of the actors, Timmy examined it closely ‘that’s the scene where they sing Master of the House!’ he said then couldn’t stop himself; ‘My band of soaks, my den of dissolute. My dirty jokes, my always pissed as newts. My sons of whores spend their lives in my inn. Homing pigeons homing in. They fly through my doors. And they crawl out on all fours’ Catherine was enchanted ‘more, more’ she cried in encouragement. ‘What’s all this, has one of my actors escaped the stage and is performing in private. Hah, no! It seems we have a budding thespian in our mist?’ the man cried theatrically. Timmy looked a little sheepish ‘sorry sir I just got carried away’ he said in apology. ‘Do not apologise young man that was better performed than a few so called singers I know, what is your name young sir?’ ‘Timmy, sorry Timothy Steele’ ‘My young student has a passion for the play sir, as you can tell. My name is Daniel and these young people are students on an exchange visit’ ‘If you are his teacher sir then I commend you, the young man has talent, would he be interested in an audition?’ Timmy was just about to jump in when Daniel stopped him ‘sorry that is not possible, that would be up to his parent to decide but thank you’ ‘A pity but here is my card, you are English?’ ‘Yes sir’ ‘Then here is another card do you have a pen?’ he asked. Daniel passed one over and he scribbled on the back of the card ‘if you give this to the person named on the card I will guarantee he will agree to an audience, enjoy the rest of the play’ he said bowing and walking away. Daniel read the name on the first card ‘wow, that was the Director of the theatre would you believe?’ It was getting late by the time they returned to the hotel. Daniel bid them goodnight and went to bed. Timmy escorted Catherine to her room and said goodnight. ‘Aren’t you forgetting something?’ she asked as he turned to go. ‘Sorry what’s that?’ Catherine walked forward and kissed him on the mouth ‘goodnight!’ she said closing the door. It was a good 5 minutes before Timmy remembered how to walk. CHAPTER 4 BACK HOME The rest of the Paris trip went in a blur for Timmy, before he knew it he was landing back in London. ‘How was it in Paris?’ his mother asked hugging him. ‘Pretty cool actually, we even went to the theatre to see Les Miserables. We met the Director of the theatre would you believe, he wanted me to audition’ he said proudly. ‘Really how did that happen?’ she asked wanting to know more. ‘I just started singing and he came over, Catherine was well impressed’ ‘Catherine?’ ‘Oh, she went as well didn’t I say that’ he said blushing slightly. ‘I see. Nice girl is she?’ she asked innocently. ‘She’s ok, her friends were really bitchy to her though’ he said. ‘And you stepped in and befriended her. That was nice, will you be seeing her again?’ ‘Probably not, she’s in the upper school. Her parents were the two teachers who were supposed to be going to Paris’. ‘I see, that must have been awkward for her’ ‘I guess it was a bit, she speaks good French by the way. Well I’m off to bed good night Mum see in the morning’ he said finishing the sentence off in French. Sarah sighed ‘what is it about Paris?’ she asked herself. CHAPTER 5 After the Paris trip there were no more lessons with Timothy, Daniel having decided he wasn’t going to teach the young man anything new ‘your French is better than mine Timothy, but I would like to follow up on that offer from the director of the Theatre if your Mum agrees?’ ‘She asked me to tell you it was ok to call next week if you want?’ ‘Ask her if Monday is ok, will you?’ he told him trying not to sound too enthusiastic. For Daniel Monday seemed to take a long time to come around but when it did he was suddenly nervous ‘Oh get a grip Daniel, your imagination is in over drive’ he scolded himself. ‘Hello Daniel please come in, I have prepared a meal for the three of us. I hope you like French cooking maybe not as good as Paris though’ The meal was quite simply incredible ‘where did you learn to cook like that?’ he asked trying to finish the desert manfully ‘I should have brought a better wine to compliment all this’ ‘The Bordeaux was a good choice and not from the local supermarket I’m guessing’ she said looking at the label on the bottle. ‘No I got it from my father’s wine cellar’ ‘Mum can I go and finish my homework it has to be in tomorrow?’ Timmy yawned. ‘Of course darling say goodnight to Daniel’ Sarah cleared the plates away and returned to her guest ‘you have done an incredible job with my son, Daniel. It concerned me for a long time about not having a father figure around’ ‘You’ve done a great job in bringing Timothy up on your own, but may I ask why?’ ‘What do you mean’ she enquired. ‘Come on Sarah, you are a very attractive women, intelligent and a dam fine cook, what more could a man ask for?’ ‘I could say the same about you Daniel. Good looking, intelligent and a gentleman, in fact I sense there’s more to you than you let on. Your fathers cellar for example?’ He hadn’t meant to let that out but now he had an explanation was called for ‘my family own an estate in Kent, Sir Robert as his Tenants call him is my father. The wine cellar really is extensive maybe you would like to see it?’ he asked. ‘Daniel are you asking me out on a date, a bit early to be introduced to the parents isn’t it?’ ‘I’ve just realized you are a terrible tease Sarah, but yes I am asking you out on a date!’ ‘In that case I would be delighted to accept’ At the top of the stairs a young man just exclaimed ‘YES!’ The couple continued to discuss Timmy’s future. It was decided the opportunity to be introduced to one of the leading theatre directors in London was too good to miss and plans were made to follow it up. Daniel left giving his host a polite kiss on the cheek, anything more passionate and he would have had trouble controlling himself. Sarah appreciated the gesture and decided this man needed further attention. CHAPTER 6 THE ESTATE IN KENT. ‘My father cringes every time I drive this old Citroen up the drive’ he laughed. ‘Is that why you do it?’ Sarah asked. ‘I suppose it is. I see I’m going to have to be careful around you aren’t I?’ ‘Bloody hell is this all yours?’ asked the young man in the back of the car. ‘Timmy behave yourself and watch that mouth young man’ she scolded. ‘Sorry mum but look at the size of the place’ It really was impressive she had to agree. It wasn’t the first time she had visited a large mansion. The father of her child unbeknown to him had a Chateau and vineyard covering a small portion of Southern France. Daniel’s parents were charming and friendly, Sir Robert insisted on showing his guests the whole house including the large wine cellar. ‘I’ve seen a few cellars in France Sir Robert, but this is most impressive’ She said complimenting him and walking around and examining bottles ‘this is a Chateau Mouton- Rothschild isn’t it?’ ‘You really do know your wines young lady. That is correct, shall we try it?’ ‘Oh good heavens no it must be worth a fortune?’ ‘But it’s only a bottle of wine at the end of the day’ ‘Please no, save it for a special occasion’ ‘But this is a special occasion’ ‘Sorry I don’t understand?’ ‘You really don’t do you. This is the first time since my daughter-in-laws death that my son has brought a guest here?’ Sarah couldn’t speak for a moment. That news had come as a shock ‘I’m sorry Sir Robert I didn’t know Daniel had been married’ ‘He doesn’t talk about it I know, mores the pity. She was a wonderful young woman, full of life. The riding accident was just that, or so we thought, until she started getting dizzy spells all the time, before we knew it she was in hospital fighting for her life, a brain haemorrhage the Doctors told us. She died a few days later. Daniel went to pieces for a while but then decided to finish his degree. He has a Doctorate you know’ Sarah was beginning to think she didn’t know anything just now. ‘Let’s join the others shall we?’ she finally said. It was late evening before they called it a day. Timmy was fast asleep in the back of the car before they left the estate. Playing catch the ball with two Great Danes had completely worn him out. ‘You should have told me Daniel’ Sarah told him sternly. ‘About what?’ ‘Don’t play games it doesn’t suit you’ she told him ‘she sounded a really nice person’. ‘I’m sorry it really wasn’t intentional, it just never came up. We haven’t really got to know each other yet have we?’ ‘I guess not. Your parents love you to bits don’t they?’ ‘I guess they do, speaking of which tell me your story, about your parents, are they still alive?’ ‘No!’ ‘Is that it, just no?’ ‘They died in a car crash when I was 10, my sister brought me up, educated me and took over as a parent. Father was French my mother English’ ‘I’m sorry’ ‘No I’m sorry for scolding you. I should know how hard it is to remember loved ones when they die in tragic circumstances’. ‘What about Timmy’s father is he still around?’ Sarah laughed ‘you called him Timmy he’ll like that’ ‘Yes he is but I don’t have any contact with him, his parents saw to that. One day I will explain it all to him he deserves that’ ‘It seems we both have a lot of skeletons still in the cupboard Sarah, but if we have any chance of getting to know each other we have to bring them out into the open, assuming you want to?’ She considered that for a moment. There had been friends in the past but none she could really get close too, maybe it was time to move on ‘yes I would like that’ EPILOGUE LONDON – 1 YEAR LATER Sarah tried not to fidget but it was hard not to keep glancing backwards at the audience as they started taking their seats. The young lady beside her was doing the same. They glanced at each other and giggled like old friends which in some ways they had become. Daniel had followed up on his promise and had contacted the name on the card the Paris Director had given him. It was almost like a magic key. The London Director had immediately granted Timmy an audition. He and Sarah had taken Timmy to London for the day. They pretended not to be nervous for his sake but it didn’t work and besides Timmy was too excited anyway. The audition had lasted over three hours, finally they emerged. ‘I would like to offer this remarkable young man a position in my Academy. It will include accommodation and of course teachers to continue his education. A mentor or chaperone would be appointed to look after him, but of course you may visit whenever you wish, shall we say beginning next week?’ the Director had announced casually. That was it. Timmy moved out the next week, and three weeks later Daniel moved in, after proposing of course. The wedding was at a London Registry Office two months later. The young lady beside her was invited at the last minute. Catherine had made enquiries at the school only to find her Knight in shining armour had left. She handed a letter to Daniel ‘please make sure Timmy gets this letter, it’s a thank you for what he did in Paris’ Timmy had written back straight away, the letters went backwards and forwards right up to the day of the wedding. The Bride and Groom, family and friends where all waiting all in the reception area. Timmy kept sitting and standing and watching the door. ‘I think he is a bit nervous about giving the bride away?’ Daniel said. ‘Oh, I don’t think that’s the reason, look who’s just walked in?’ Catherine entered the room a little unsure what to do. She noticed Timmy and broke into a smile. Timmy strode over, swept her in his arms and gave her the most passionate of kisses, totally oblivious to the hoots of the guests. Daniel, Sarah and Catherine had visited Timmy as much as possible, even being allowed into the theatre for rehearsals. The Director had approached them one day ‘Timmy is doing incredibly well and between you and me is earmarked for a role when we reopen. The young man is a natural for sure but it’s when he’s in front of an audience that he really shines. A most rare gift I assure you’ The Director had been true to his word. It was opening night, the lights dimmed and the audience became silent. And the play. Do you really need to ask? THE END |
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