No More Heroes
Chapter 6- What Do They Know?
(Sally)
I left the party after I saw Westlife come on the stage in the customs. That’s a picture taken in my mind. I managed to find the carving. I can’t believe it’s still there after all these years. Another picture taken in my mind.
You might be wondering where I’m going. Well I can’t go home, my mother’s no longer around. My friends are staying at the Ground House and enjoying themselves at the party. There’s one person who you haven’t been introduced to but has been mentioned.
Half an hour later and I was standing outside the door of number 18. Number 18 is on the second floor of an apartment tower. Only one person lives here. I knocked on the door and waited for them to answer. A few minutes later, the door opened. A man stood at the door. A man who I love.
‘Hi,’ he said a little surprised ‘thought you were at the party?’
‘I was,’ I replied ‘I left before the entertainment.’
‘Westlife singing?’
‘How did you know?’
‘Nicky kind of mentioned…’
‘Typical Nicky.’
‘Come on in. I put the kettle on. Hot chocolate?’
I walked in and said ‘Yes please.’
Ok a bit of information on this man before the hot chocolate. His name is Richard. The Richard who loved Kelly. The Richard who is Nicky’s cousin. The Richard who took me to the hospital. And the Richard who said the house was sold. Enough information?
5 minutes later and we were in the sitting room. We were cuddled up together on the sofa and I had my head on his chest. His arms were holding me tightly around my waist. Another picture taken.
‘The others still don’t know about us?’ Asked Richard
‘We talk about this all the time,’ I said sleepily ‘let’s do something else then talk.’
‘Sally please? Just tell me do the others know about us?’
‘Of course they don’t. Nicky believes that we still hate each other.’
‘You happy about that?’
‘Same old question. You know the answer. Why do you want to bring it up now?’
‘I just feel it’s time to tell them.’
I sat up startled and looked at him. Then I said ‘Ricky, you’re kidding? We can’t tell them, especially Nicky.’
‘I know! It’s my own fault for the reason. We can’t keep this a secret forever.’
‘Ricky,’ I said, settling back down ‘It’s not your fault baby. He found out a few years after.’
‘Yeah… a few years too late.’
I just feel asleep after he said that. I could feel him stroking my hair. Then he kissed my neck and he to, feel asleep.
They never see us in the loving times
What do they know?
They don’t know a thing
As my eyes slowly opened, the smell of freshly cooked bacon entered my nose. I got of the sofa and walked to the kitchen. How did he move without waking me? Richard looked at me with a huge grin on his face. Not something I was used to waking up to.
‘Morning sweetheart,’ he said ‘Merry Christmas!’
I waved my hand dismissively at him. For once in my life my body was still tired. It’s begging me to go back to sleep. I looked at Richard and now saw concern. He came over and wrapped his arms around me. My eyes suddenly closed…
I wake up to the sound of a ring tone. I saw my phone on the bedside table and grabbed it. I pressed the green button and held the phone to my ear.
‘I’m engaged!’ I heard someone shout ‘I’m engaged! I’m engaged! I’m engaged!’
‘Calm down!’ I said loudly enough to be heard ‘First of all… who is this?’
‘It’s me, Tia!’ Said Tia
I removed the phone from my ear and looked at the screen… it was Tia. Feeling a little bit embarrassed, I held the phone to my ear once again.
‘Sorry Tia,’ I said ‘You’re engaged? When did this happen?’
‘This morning!’ said a very excited Tia ‘Mark asked me this morning just after breakfast and I said yes!’
She squealed with excitement. Then I realised something… How did I get in Richard’s bed wearing… well nothing?
‘Ricky.’ I said quietly
‘Excuse me?’ asked Tia
I didn’t realise Tia had calm down.
‘Sorry,’ I said ‘talking to myself.’
‘Ok. Listen I don’t want to be rude but I’ve got like thousands of people to ring up.’
‘Ok I’ll see you in a few days time.’
‘Bye!’
Tia hung up. I slowly removed the phone from my ear and sighed deeply. I’m extremely happy for Tia, it’s just… why does Richard always have to take advantage?
About 10 minutes later, Richard came in holding two presents. I smiled at him, pretending not to notice anything. He came to the bed and sat on the edge.
‘Merry Christmas.’ He said handing me one of the presents
I took it without saying anything and opened it.
‘A key?’ I asked
‘I want you live here.’ He said
‘What? You serious?’
‘Yes. It’s my Christmas present to you.’
‘But…’
I couldn’t finish the sentence. Richard kissed me and gently pushed me back down…
Chapter 7-
(Shane)
Up the stairs I climbed. The sense of love and passion of longing is so strong. After a long day at work, there’s only one thing I want to do now. I know it’s wrong. My girlfriend is waiting for me just round the corner. Where am I? At my lover’s place. I shouldn’t be here and yet I am. This burning sensation is taking over me. As I reached my lover’s bedroom door, I stopped and hesitated. I should go. A voice in my head is saying “Turn round; turn roundbefore its too late. You can’t do this anymore. You’re girlfriend trust you. Trust her best friend. Go any further and everything is ruined…”
My hand reached for the handle. The other hand knocked on the door. Her voice was soft and excited when she said ‘Come in.’
I opened the door and was blown away with what I saw… what I smell… she’s ready. The question is… am I?
I bolted awake. These scenes kept coming all day. It’s like they’re trying to haunt me. There’s no trying about it… they are haunting me. They’re showing me how I went wrong. Like I need to be reminded. I know what I did wrong. Day time friends and night time lovers come to mind. Always like that. Though Sally started to shut us out after the crash. But that’s understandable isn’t it? I always had the feeling that Sally and Richard were hiding something, just never knew what. But it’s not like I was squeaky clean… I’m not.
‘Morning.’ Said Kelly
It’s now December 27th. The day of the funeral of Mary Hart. I and Kelly won’t be going. It’s not because we didn’t like Mary, we did. It’s because we wasn’t invited, but it’s not like we were expecting an invitation. We have other things on our minds… the baby scan!
‘Morning sweetheart.’ I said
Kelly placed a plate down on the table and I went to sit down. Pancakes shaped as hearts with chocolate sauce. Kelly really does know how to make a man happy in the mornings!
‘You had a bad dream last night?’ asked Kelly
I looked at her. She was sitting across the table, looking slightly concerned.
‘It wasn’t bad, bad.’ I said ‘More of a… distance memory.’
‘Meaning?’
‘Just… an old memory playing again.’
‘Shane, we’ve been together for 9 years. Tell me babe.’
She was begging, even if she denies is. The dream was about her after all, so I should tell her.
‘Remember the time when I was supposed to take Sally out to dinner to try and cheer her up. Instead I went to see you?’
‘Yeah.’
‘That was my dream. I waked up because… I was ashamed what happened.’
‘As Sally would say “Fate played his part”.’
‘Maybe, but… I can’t stop thinking about what could have been between me and Sally.’
‘She and Richard were hiding something.’
‘So were we Kelly. Our secret would have been much bigger.’
‘You believe that? What did they do when they were alone? Where did they go?’
‘I don’t know. I really don’t believe Sally would cheat on anyone. Richard on the other hand…’
‘He was a jerk! I don’t even know what I saw in him!’
‘His money and…’
I couldn’t even finish the sentence. Not because of Kelly’s face, because I couldn’t manage to get the words out. I have never managed to live up to him. Kelly reassures me that I don’t need to. She loves me, more then she ever loved Richard. But I never knew what happened behind closed doors. I never worked out why Kelly seemed uncomfortable when she talked about Richard when he wasn’t there. There are so many secrets between us four. One day those secrets will soon be revealed.
Chapter 8
(Sally)
Today I lay my Mother to rest. I’ve got my girls with me in my room while Nicky, Mark and Kian were down stairs. With everything packed up we’re all sitting on the floor. I would offer Viv a chair but they’re all in the moving van waiting to be taking to a new destination. I haven’t said anything to anyone about Richard’s offer. How can I live with Richard without giving the game away?
A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts and Nicky opened the door. He stood in the doorway and said ‘The cars are here.’
I sighed deeply and looked outside the window. Jess, Viv and Tia left the room, leaving me alone with Nicky.
‘I know it’s hard but we all have to go through with it.’ Nicky said
‘I know.’ I simply said
I stood up and walked to the door. I stopped just next to Nicky and kissed him on the cheek. He smiled understandably and we walked down the corridor and down the stairs. The door was open and I could see Mark standing beside on of the cars. One car was for the lads and one car for the girls. Nicky walked to the lad’s car while I shut the door and locked it. I walked slowly to the girl’s car and then stopped when I got to the door. I looked back at the house, knowing I wasn’t going to come back. I got into the car and sat down next to Jess. Tears were building in my eyes but I wasn’t going to let them full. Well… at least not now.
It’s now the evening and everyone is enjoying the party, well everyone apart from me. I’m trying to work out what to do. Richard is here talking to Nicky, what about I don’t know. But I need to work what I’m doing, where I’m going after the party. I looked at where Nicky and Richard were standing and I could see Nicky was angry.
‘You can’t do this!’ Nicky shouted
Everyone heard Nicky but he didn’t care. He was so angry that he was shaking. Mark and Kian slowly made their way over to Nicky and Richard. But in a blink of an eye, Nicky had punched Richard. Then the next thing I knew was I was being pulled by the arm out of the room. He was walking so fast that I almost fell over. Once we were out of the room, Nicky let go of my arm and stopped just inches in front of me. He turned to face me and said, in an almost demanding
voice ‘What the HELL ARE YOU DOING?’
I had to step back, never once have I seen Nicky like this. He always seemed calmed natured. How wrong your judgment would be.
‘W-w-what?’ I stumbled out
‘You know what! Going to live with RICHARD!’
‘What? No! How-how in the world?’
‘He told me he offered you to stay around his.’
‘I haven’t agreed to anything Nicky. Yes, he offered but I haven’t said yes.’
‘But you’re considering it?’ Nicky said this more calmly
‘Where else have I got to go? Of course I’m considering it Nicky but truthfully… I’m not happy about it.’
‘You and Richard… Secretly dating?’
I looked at him. Just how much has Richard told him? Already I felt betrayed. How can I answer this question? Thankfully the entrance door opened and two people were standing there. Not just any two people, Shane and Kelly.
‘What do you want?’ I demanded of Shane
Shane looked as if a lightning bolt had just hit him. He turned to Kelly for support, but she just turned away.
‘This is the Grand House right?’ he asked Nicky
Nicky simply nodded and he to looked away.
Chapter 9
(Shane)
‘Ok something has happened and I want to know what.’ I Said
Richard had joined us and was standing next to Sally. I notice him place his hand on Sally’s waist. A sickening feeling washed over me. All of a sudden I wanted to punch Richard, but it looked like someone has already.
‘What’s going on?’ I asked
‘Nicky punched Richard.’ Said Kian
No one had noticed that Kian and Mark had joined the group. By the look on Mark’s face, he’s seen Richard’s hand placement. Glad I wasn’t the only one.
‘Why did you punch him?’ I asked Nicky ‘He’s your cousin.’
‘No particular reason Shane.’ Nicky said
‘What’s going on?’ asked Jess
The girls have now joined us and the party has gone quiet. Everyone was listening in to our conversation.
‘That’s what I’d like to know.’ I said ‘Ok Nicky punched Richard, but why?’
Nicky looked at Sally but she just looked at the ground.
‘Sally and Richard,’ said Nicky, uneasily ‘They’re dating.’
‘Dating?’
Nicky nodded his head. I saw Sally close her eyes and open them again. Richard was smiling. I looked at Kelly and she had turned white. I’m sure I have as well. The place went quiet, only breathing could be heard.
‘Come on babe,’ said Richard, breaking the silence ‘Let’s go home.’
Richard made a move to leave but Sally just stood there. It was as if she was frozen by the word Nicky had said.
‘I’m staying here.’ Said Sally
‘You can’t afford it.’ Said Richard
‘Sally’s a friend; she can stay here for free.’ I said ‘And considering the circumstances… what?’
‘I never thought I hear the words Sally and friend being used in the same sentence from you Filan.’
‘She might not be my friend Richard, but she’s friends with the others. And besides, considering the circumstances, I’m sure a few strings can be pulled.’
‘How do you know?’
‘My company owns this house.’
‘I highly doubt that. Come on Sally, let’s leave.’
‘No Richard.’ Sally said firmly ‘I’m staying here. I need my friends. And besides… I haven’t decided.’
Decided what? By the look on Richard’s face, that wasn’t what he wanted to hear. It took him a while to take in what she said, then he said ‘Fine. I’ll expect a phone call tomorrow.’
Sally nodded and allowed Richard to kiss her. Then he made his way to the entrance door, making sure he knocked into me. When the door closed, the atmosphere was tight.
‘Nice to see you to.’ I said, more to myself then anyone else
I looked at Sally and saw she was leaning against Mark. Mark had his arm around her and looked at me.
‘I’ll go and get the room sorted out for you.’ I said to Sally
She just nodded and I made my way to reception. The receptionist looked as if she had heard everything. When I got there, a key was out with a note underneath it with Sally’s name on it. I took the key and the note and thanked the receptionist. I made my way back to the group and noticed Jess, Viv and Tia were around Kelly, demanding news from her. I also noticed that Nicky wasn’t there. I stopped in front of Sally and gave her the key.
‘Thanks.’ She said quietly
‘Kian, Mark can you take her to her room please?’ I asked
‘No problem.’ Said Mark ‘What number?’
‘It’s on the key.’
‘Of course is it.’
I laughed slightly and watched as Kian and Mark take Sally to her room.
Chapter 10
(Sally)
‘Room 18. Here you go.’ Said Mark
Mark very kindly opened the door for me. Mark and Kian helped me to the bed and sat me down. Both of them sat down either side of me and looked around. Room 18 wasn’t very big, but was just right for one person.
Richard had told Nicky our little secret. I knew one day he would, he was just waiting for the right opportunity and tonight was his best bet. Sensing the atmosphere in the room, Kian and Mark left. When the door closed, I fell back onto the bed and allowed the tears to fall.
How could I live with Richard? How could I still love him after all he’s done to hurt me? Am I so blind that I can’t see Richard’s real intentions? Why would he want me to live with him? He’s a hurter, I know that, so why am I still with him?
Could it be that he’s all I’ve got left of my past? If so, do I really want to hang on to it? I mean look what happened. People got hurt, were lied to andtoo many secrets were kept. Secrets that are still kept. Secrets were revealed but the wrong ones. If I told Shane he was a father, things would have been different. But I didn’t want him to put his dream on hold. He worked so hard to get Westlife where they are today. I didn’t want to hold him back? Was that a bad reason for not telling Shane he was a father?
If I could turn back the time, I would. But I can’t. There’ll be so many things that I would do differently. I would have told Shane he was a father. I would have never gotten in that car with Richard. In fact I would stop us becoming friends with Richard. I would stop Kelly dating him.
But… Fate always plays a part. Maybe the way things turned out was the right way. Kelly seems to be very happy with Shane, and I’m pleased. And my life with Richard, well… dangerous. But then maybe Fate made things like this for me, to test me. If I didn’t love Richard, I would have left the first time he had hurt me. Maybe, just maybe I’m realising I’m in love with Richard for the first time. I know it seems scary, it is, and it’s the way I’ve worked things out.
I’m now facing a cross road. 4 ways to go. All I have to do is decide which road to go to. What ever decision I make I just hope it’s the right one.
The next day I was sitting with the lads in the dinning room. The girls weren’t up yet. Then again, they didn’t have to work.
‘Have you decided?’ asked Nicky
It took me a while to reply. The atmosphere was tight and I could see Shane was dreading the out come.
‘I did my maths last night.’ I said ‘And I’ve come to a conclusion… I think,’ I paused, how can I say this? I continued ‘I think I’m in love with Richard.’
I looked at their faces. No one was happy, but I didn’t expect them to be. Shane and Nicky seemed to be frozen. As I wait for someone to say something, I slowly regretting saying those words. But I can’t take them back now.
‘You can’t.’ said Shane ‘You can’t. Don’t live with him. You don’t know what he’ll do. It will be the biggest mistake…’
‘Then let me make it.’ I said ‘I know what he’s capable of. Being with him for five years has shown me.’
'Five years? Sally are you crazy? He’ll hurt you in ways that can’t be healed.’
‘Like you? Look… I know what I’m doing.’ I think
‘I doubt it.’
‘I don’t know what happened when we were younger. In fact I don’t know how things started up with you and Kelly, this is not your decision to make Shane.’
‘No you’re right; it’s not my decision to make. But believe it or not… I care.’
Shane cares? After all this time he’s saying he cars…
‘Thanks Shane. But if you care you’ll let me make this decision no matter what the outcome. Besides if things go terribly wrong, I’ll just leave.’
‘Promise?’
My world, he does care. Why?
‘Promise. I’ll let Nicky know how things are going and I’m sure he’ll tell you.’
‘I’m sure he will. Just be careful.’
‘I will.’
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(Sally)
I left the party after I saw Westlife come on the stage in the customs. That’s a picture taken in my mind. I managed to find the carving. I can’t believe it’s still there after all these years. Another picture taken in my mind.
You might be wondering where I’m going. Well I can’t go home, my mother’s no longer around. My friends are staying at the Ground House and enjoying themselves at the party. There’s one person who you haven’t been introduced to but has been mentioned.
Half an hour later and I was standing outside the door of number 18. Number 18 is on the second floor of an apartment tower. Only one person lives here. I knocked on the door and waited for them to answer. A few minutes later, the door opened. A man stood at the door. A man who I love.
‘Hi,’ he said a little surprised ‘thought you were at the party?’
‘I was,’ I replied ‘I left before the entertainment.’
‘Westlife singing?’
‘How did you know?’
‘Nicky kind of mentioned…’
‘Typical Nicky.’
‘Come on in. I put the kettle on. Hot chocolate?’
I walked in and said ‘Yes please.’
Ok a bit of information on this man before the hot chocolate. His name is Richard. The Richard who loved Kelly. The Richard who is Nicky’s cousin. The Richard who took me to the hospital. And the Richard who said the house was sold. Enough information?
5 minutes later and we were in the sitting room. We were cuddled up together on the sofa and I had my head on his chest. His arms were holding me tightly around my waist. Another picture taken.
‘The others still don’t know about us?’ Asked Richard
‘We talk about this all the time,’ I said sleepily ‘let’s do something else then talk.’
‘Sally please? Just tell me do the others know about us?’
‘Of course they don’t. Nicky believes that we still hate each other.’
‘You happy about that?’
‘Same old question. You know the answer. Why do you want to bring it up now?’
‘I just feel it’s time to tell them.’
I sat up startled and looked at him. Then I said ‘Ricky, you’re kidding? We can’t tell them, especially Nicky.’
‘I know! It’s my own fault for the reason. We can’t keep this a secret forever.’
‘Ricky,’ I said, settling back down ‘It’s not your fault baby. He found out a few years after.’
‘Yeah… a few years too late.’
I just feel asleep after he said that. I could feel him stroking my hair. Then he kissed my neck and he to, feel asleep.
They never see us in the loving times
What do they know?
They don’t know a thing
As my eyes slowly opened, the smell of freshly cooked bacon entered my nose. I got of the sofa and walked to the kitchen. How did he move without waking me? Richard looked at me with a huge grin on his face. Not something I was used to waking up to.
‘Morning sweetheart,’ he said ‘Merry Christmas!’
I waved my hand dismissively at him. For once in my life my body was still tired. It’s begging me to go back to sleep. I looked at Richard and now saw concern. He came over and wrapped his arms around me. My eyes suddenly closed…
I wake up to the sound of a ring tone. I saw my phone on the bedside table and grabbed it. I pressed the green button and held the phone to my ear.
‘I’m engaged!’ I heard someone shout ‘I’m engaged! I’m engaged! I’m engaged!’
‘Calm down!’ I said loudly enough to be heard ‘First of all… who is this?’
‘It’s me, Tia!’ Said Tia
I removed the phone from my ear and looked at the screen… it was Tia. Feeling a little bit embarrassed, I held the phone to my ear once again.
‘Sorry Tia,’ I said ‘You’re engaged? When did this happen?’
‘This morning!’ said a very excited Tia ‘Mark asked me this morning just after breakfast and I said yes!’
She squealed with excitement. Then I realised something… How did I get in Richard’s bed wearing… well nothing?
‘Ricky.’ I said quietly
‘Excuse me?’ asked Tia
I didn’t realise Tia had calm down.
‘Sorry,’ I said ‘talking to myself.’
‘Ok. Listen I don’t want to be rude but I’ve got like thousands of people to ring up.’
‘Ok I’ll see you in a few days time.’
‘Bye!’
Tia hung up. I slowly removed the phone from my ear and sighed deeply. I’m extremely happy for Tia, it’s just… why does Richard always have to take advantage?
About 10 minutes later, Richard came in holding two presents. I smiled at him, pretending not to notice anything. He came to the bed and sat on the edge.
‘Merry Christmas.’ He said handing me one of the presents
I took it without saying anything and opened it.
‘A key?’ I asked
‘I want you live here.’ He said
‘What? You serious?’
‘Yes. It’s my Christmas present to you.’
‘But…’
I couldn’t finish the sentence. Richard kissed me and gently pushed me back down…
Chapter 7-
(Shane)
Up the stairs I climbed. The sense of love and passion of longing is so strong. After a long day at work, there’s only one thing I want to do now. I know it’s wrong. My girlfriend is waiting for me just round the corner. Where am I? At my lover’s place. I shouldn’t be here and yet I am. This burning sensation is taking over me. As I reached my lover’s bedroom door, I stopped and hesitated. I should go. A voice in my head is saying “Turn round; turn roundbefore its too late. You can’t do this anymore. You’re girlfriend trust you. Trust her best friend. Go any further and everything is ruined…”
My hand reached for the handle. The other hand knocked on the door. Her voice was soft and excited when she said ‘Come in.’
I opened the door and was blown away with what I saw… what I smell… she’s ready. The question is… am I?
I bolted awake. These scenes kept coming all day. It’s like they’re trying to haunt me. There’s no trying about it… they are haunting me. They’re showing me how I went wrong. Like I need to be reminded. I know what I did wrong. Day time friends and night time lovers come to mind. Always like that. Though Sally started to shut us out after the crash. But that’s understandable isn’t it? I always had the feeling that Sally and Richard were hiding something, just never knew what. But it’s not like I was squeaky clean… I’m not.
‘Morning.’ Said Kelly
It’s now December 27th. The day of the funeral of Mary Hart. I and Kelly won’t be going. It’s not because we didn’t like Mary, we did. It’s because we wasn’t invited, but it’s not like we were expecting an invitation. We have other things on our minds… the baby scan!
‘Morning sweetheart.’ I said
Kelly placed a plate down on the table and I went to sit down. Pancakes shaped as hearts with chocolate sauce. Kelly really does know how to make a man happy in the mornings!
‘You had a bad dream last night?’ asked Kelly
I looked at her. She was sitting across the table, looking slightly concerned.
‘It wasn’t bad, bad.’ I said ‘More of a… distance memory.’
‘Meaning?’
‘Just… an old memory playing again.’
‘Shane, we’ve been together for 9 years. Tell me babe.’
She was begging, even if she denies is. The dream was about her after all, so I should tell her.
‘Remember the time when I was supposed to take Sally out to dinner to try and cheer her up. Instead I went to see you?’
‘Yeah.’
‘That was my dream. I waked up because… I was ashamed what happened.’
‘As Sally would say “Fate played his part”.’
‘Maybe, but… I can’t stop thinking about what could have been between me and Sally.’
‘She and Richard were hiding something.’
‘So were we Kelly. Our secret would have been much bigger.’
‘You believe that? What did they do when they were alone? Where did they go?’
‘I don’t know. I really don’t believe Sally would cheat on anyone. Richard on the other hand…’
‘He was a jerk! I don’t even know what I saw in him!’
‘His money and…’
I couldn’t even finish the sentence. Not because of Kelly’s face, because I couldn’t manage to get the words out. I have never managed to live up to him. Kelly reassures me that I don’t need to. She loves me, more then she ever loved Richard. But I never knew what happened behind closed doors. I never worked out why Kelly seemed uncomfortable when she talked about Richard when he wasn’t there. There are so many secrets between us four. One day those secrets will soon be revealed.
Chapter 8
(Sally)
Today I lay my Mother to rest. I’ve got my girls with me in my room while Nicky, Mark and Kian were down stairs. With everything packed up we’re all sitting on the floor. I would offer Viv a chair but they’re all in the moving van waiting to be taking to a new destination. I haven’t said anything to anyone about Richard’s offer. How can I live with Richard without giving the game away?
A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts and Nicky opened the door. He stood in the doorway and said ‘The cars are here.’
I sighed deeply and looked outside the window. Jess, Viv and Tia left the room, leaving me alone with Nicky.
‘I know it’s hard but we all have to go through with it.’ Nicky said
‘I know.’ I simply said
I stood up and walked to the door. I stopped just next to Nicky and kissed him on the cheek. He smiled understandably and we walked down the corridor and down the stairs. The door was open and I could see Mark standing beside on of the cars. One car was for the lads and one car for the girls. Nicky walked to the lad’s car while I shut the door and locked it. I walked slowly to the girl’s car and then stopped when I got to the door. I looked back at the house, knowing I wasn’t going to come back. I got into the car and sat down next to Jess. Tears were building in my eyes but I wasn’t going to let them full. Well… at least not now.
It’s now the evening and everyone is enjoying the party, well everyone apart from me. I’m trying to work out what to do. Richard is here talking to Nicky, what about I don’t know. But I need to work what I’m doing, where I’m going after the party. I looked at where Nicky and Richard were standing and I could see Nicky was angry.
‘You can’t do this!’ Nicky shouted
Everyone heard Nicky but he didn’t care. He was so angry that he was shaking. Mark and Kian slowly made their way over to Nicky and Richard. But in a blink of an eye, Nicky had punched Richard. Then the next thing I knew was I was being pulled by the arm out of the room. He was walking so fast that I almost fell over. Once we were out of the room, Nicky let go of my arm and stopped just inches in front of me. He turned to face me and said, in an almost demanding
voice ‘What the HELL ARE YOU DOING?’
I had to step back, never once have I seen Nicky like this. He always seemed calmed natured. How wrong your judgment would be.
‘W-w-what?’ I stumbled out
‘You know what! Going to live with RICHARD!’
‘What? No! How-how in the world?’
‘He told me he offered you to stay around his.’
‘I haven’t agreed to anything Nicky. Yes, he offered but I haven’t said yes.’
‘But you’re considering it?’ Nicky said this more calmly
‘Where else have I got to go? Of course I’m considering it Nicky but truthfully… I’m not happy about it.’
‘You and Richard… Secretly dating?’
I looked at him. Just how much has Richard told him? Already I felt betrayed. How can I answer this question? Thankfully the entrance door opened and two people were standing there. Not just any two people, Shane and Kelly.
‘What do you want?’ I demanded of Shane
Shane looked as if a lightning bolt had just hit him. He turned to Kelly for support, but she just turned away.
‘This is the Grand House right?’ he asked Nicky
Nicky simply nodded and he to looked away.
Chapter 9
(Shane)
‘Ok something has happened and I want to know what.’ I Said
Richard had joined us and was standing next to Sally. I notice him place his hand on Sally’s waist. A sickening feeling washed over me. All of a sudden I wanted to punch Richard, but it looked like someone has already.
‘What’s going on?’ I asked
‘Nicky punched Richard.’ Said Kian
No one had noticed that Kian and Mark had joined the group. By the look on Mark’s face, he’s seen Richard’s hand placement. Glad I wasn’t the only one.
‘Why did you punch him?’ I asked Nicky ‘He’s your cousin.’
‘No particular reason Shane.’ Nicky said
‘What’s going on?’ asked Jess
The girls have now joined us and the party has gone quiet. Everyone was listening in to our conversation.
‘That’s what I’d like to know.’ I said ‘Ok Nicky punched Richard, but why?’
Nicky looked at Sally but she just looked at the ground.
‘Sally and Richard,’ said Nicky, uneasily ‘They’re dating.’
‘Dating?’
Nicky nodded his head. I saw Sally close her eyes and open them again. Richard was smiling. I looked at Kelly and she had turned white. I’m sure I have as well. The place went quiet, only breathing could be heard.
‘Come on babe,’ said Richard, breaking the silence ‘Let’s go home.’
Richard made a move to leave but Sally just stood there. It was as if she was frozen by the word Nicky had said.
‘I’m staying here.’ Said Sally
‘You can’t afford it.’ Said Richard
‘Sally’s a friend; she can stay here for free.’ I said ‘And considering the circumstances… what?’
‘I never thought I hear the words Sally and friend being used in the same sentence from you Filan.’
‘She might not be my friend Richard, but she’s friends with the others. And besides, considering the circumstances, I’m sure a few strings can be pulled.’
‘How do you know?’
‘My company owns this house.’
‘I highly doubt that. Come on Sally, let’s leave.’
‘No Richard.’ Sally said firmly ‘I’m staying here. I need my friends. And besides… I haven’t decided.’
Decided what? By the look on Richard’s face, that wasn’t what he wanted to hear. It took him a while to take in what she said, then he said ‘Fine. I’ll expect a phone call tomorrow.’
Sally nodded and allowed Richard to kiss her. Then he made his way to the entrance door, making sure he knocked into me. When the door closed, the atmosphere was tight.
‘Nice to see you to.’ I said, more to myself then anyone else
I looked at Sally and saw she was leaning against Mark. Mark had his arm around her and looked at me.
‘I’ll go and get the room sorted out for you.’ I said to Sally
She just nodded and I made my way to reception. The receptionist looked as if she had heard everything. When I got there, a key was out with a note underneath it with Sally’s name on it. I took the key and the note and thanked the receptionist. I made my way back to the group and noticed Jess, Viv and Tia were around Kelly, demanding news from her. I also noticed that Nicky wasn’t there. I stopped in front of Sally and gave her the key.
‘Thanks.’ She said quietly
‘Kian, Mark can you take her to her room please?’ I asked
‘No problem.’ Said Mark ‘What number?’
‘It’s on the key.’
‘Of course is it.’
I laughed slightly and watched as Kian and Mark take Sally to her room.
Chapter 10
(Sally)
‘Room 18. Here you go.’ Said Mark
Mark very kindly opened the door for me. Mark and Kian helped me to the bed and sat me down. Both of them sat down either side of me and looked around. Room 18 wasn’t very big, but was just right for one person.
Richard had told Nicky our little secret. I knew one day he would, he was just waiting for the right opportunity and tonight was his best bet. Sensing the atmosphere in the room, Kian and Mark left. When the door closed, I fell back onto the bed and allowed the tears to fall.
How could I live with Richard? How could I still love him after all he’s done to hurt me? Am I so blind that I can’t see Richard’s real intentions? Why would he want me to live with him? He’s a hurter, I know that, so why am I still with him?
Could it be that he’s all I’ve got left of my past? If so, do I really want to hang on to it? I mean look what happened. People got hurt, were lied to andtoo many secrets were kept. Secrets that are still kept. Secrets were revealed but the wrong ones. If I told Shane he was a father, things would have been different. But I didn’t want him to put his dream on hold. He worked so hard to get Westlife where they are today. I didn’t want to hold him back? Was that a bad reason for not telling Shane he was a father?
If I could turn back the time, I would. But I can’t. There’ll be so many things that I would do differently. I would have told Shane he was a father. I would have never gotten in that car with Richard. In fact I would stop us becoming friends with Richard. I would stop Kelly dating him.
But… Fate always plays a part. Maybe the way things turned out was the right way. Kelly seems to be very happy with Shane, and I’m pleased. And my life with Richard, well… dangerous. But then maybe Fate made things like this for me, to test me. If I didn’t love Richard, I would have left the first time he had hurt me. Maybe, just maybe I’m realising I’m in love with Richard for the first time. I know it seems scary, it is, and it’s the way I’ve worked things out.
I’m now facing a cross road. 4 ways to go. All I have to do is decide which road to go to. What ever decision I make I just hope it’s the right one.
The next day I was sitting with the lads in the dinning room. The girls weren’t up yet. Then again, they didn’t have to work.
‘Have you decided?’ asked Nicky
It took me a while to reply. The atmosphere was tight and I could see Shane was dreading the out come.
‘I did my maths last night.’ I said ‘And I’ve come to a conclusion… I think,’ I paused, how can I say this? I continued ‘I think I’m in love with Richard.’
I looked at their faces. No one was happy, but I didn’t expect them to be. Shane and Nicky seemed to be frozen. As I wait for someone to say something, I slowly regretting saying those words. But I can’t take them back now.
‘You can’t.’ said Shane ‘You can’t. Don’t live with him. You don’t know what he’ll do. It will be the biggest mistake…’
‘Then let me make it.’ I said ‘I know what he’s capable of. Being with him for five years has shown me.’
'Five years? Sally are you crazy? He’ll hurt you in ways that can’t be healed.’
‘Like you? Look… I know what I’m doing.’ I think
‘I doubt it.’
‘I don’t know what happened when we were younger. In fact I don’t know how things started up with you and Kelly, this is not your decision to make Shane.’
‘No you’re right; it’s not my decision to make. But believe it or not… I care.’
Shane cares? After all this time he’s saying he cars…
‘Thanks Shane. But if you care you’ll let me make this decision no matter what the outcome. Besides if things go terribly wrong, I’ll just leave.’
‘Promise?’
My world, he does care. Why?
‘Promise. I’ll let Nicky know how things are going and I’m sure he’ll tell you.’
‘I’m sure he will. Just be careful.’
‘I will.’
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