#vanity

Chapter 22

Still in shock from the three words Charity just said, Vanessa was stood there with her mouth wide open.

“Yes I said I love you. Should I not have said that? Is it too early? Oh god I’ve messed things up haven’t I?” Charity replied panicking.

“No, no it’s not too early. I’ve been wanting to say it ever since you helped me with Johnny. In my mind that night cemented how I feel about you and I’ve wanted to say it but have been too scared”.

“Scared?”

“You don’t do feelings? And I didn’t want to mess up the good thing we have going!”

“So you love me too?”

“Yes, I love you Charity Dingle”.

“Come here…” Charity replied grabbing Vanessa round the waist and pulling her in kissing her passionately.

“Steady, your son is in the room!”.

“My god if he wasn’t I would rip your clothes off right here right now”.

“Shall we go try and find somewhere private?”

“Yes, you don’t have to ask me twice. Noah we will be right back”.

The giddy pair made their way out of Noah’s room in search of somewhere private to enjoy some alone time. The only place they could find was a store cupboard, “what about in there?” Charity said.

“We cant do it in a cupboard?”

“Why not? We won’t be long, plus those clothes need to come off”.

Biting her lip in anticipation Vanessa decided to just go with the flow, the pair slyly entered the cupboard making sure nobody saw them.

“It’s a bit cramped in here”, Vanessa said.

“Shhhhh”, Charity replied pushing her finger up against Vanessa’s lips. “Enough talking”.

Pinning Vanessa up against the wall she unbuttons her jeans, sliding her hand down into Vanessa’s knickers. As Charity began pleasuring Vanessa, Vanessa’s moaning grew and grew in volume. “Shhhh or someone will hear us”, Charity said. Charity decided she needed to be quick about things so skipped the rest of the foreplay and went straight into slipping in a digit or two. Movement getting quicker and quicker, their kissing become more passionate by the second, Vanessa almost reaching climax when in burst a nurse looking to get some supplies, “Oh my… Umm I don’t think you guys should be in here”.

The pair stood there, Vanessa with no top on and Charity with her hand down Vanessa’s trousers.

“I’ll let you guys get dressed”, the nurse said to the embarrassed pair.

A blushing Vanessa reached for her shirt which was hanging on one of the shelves, “I can’t believe we just got caught having sex in a cupboard”.

Trying to control her laughter Charity zipped up Vanessa’s trousers, “I wonder if she copped an eye full? Lucky girl!”.

“Charity this isn’t funny…I was about to.. well you know! Imagine she’d walked in a minute later”.

“You were about to come, you can say it out loud! I’m sorry babe” Charity said trying to control her laughter, “but it is funny.”

Fixing their appearance to avoid anymore embarrassment the pair left the cupboard, Vanessa trying to swerve making any eye contact with the nurse that found them. Vanessa felt like a naughty school girl who had been found kissing behind the back of the bike sheds whereas Charity walked out like she had just won the lottery. As Charity walked past the nurse she gave her a cheeky wink.

“Stop it”, Vanessa said slapping Charity on the back in a playful manner.

“What? She loved it! So where we going to find to finish off what we started?”

“We’re not. I’m not risking being caught again… we will have to wait until we are back home”.

“I can’t wait that long”, Charity joked as the pair walked hand in hand back to Noah’s room.

***

Meanwhile back over at the Wool pack a distraught Debbie returns home from her visit with Noah.

“Debbie, what’s wrong? Is it Noah? Is he ok?” Chas asked.

“No change, mum hates me!”

“You’ve got to give her time, she’ll come around eventually!”

“Not this time, you didn’t see the look in her eyes”.

“Can you blame her though Debs? I know we all make stupid mistakes but even for you this was a step too far”.

“Do you think Dad will have a word?”

“I don’t know what good he will do, he can’t fight your battles for you, You are a grown adult with 2 children. Just stay out of her way and give her time, she loves you and always will but at the moment she can’t stand the sight of you”, Chas said telling Debbie a few home truths.

“I’m gunna go for a walk”, Debbie replied.

Chas could see that she was upset by the whole situation and what she had heard but Debbie had got used to getting away with everything. It was about time she grew up and took responsibility for her actions. “I’ll look after your children then shall I?”, Chas replied in a sarcastic tone.

Debbie didn’t respond she just walked out the room taking her keys with her.

“Bloody typical, it’s fine I’ll look after 3 kids as well as run a pub single handedly”, Chas said to what she thought was an empty room, but Paddy had heard it all.

“I hear your looking for a babysitter?” Paddy said looking at Chas lovingly.

“Ohh Paddy Kirk, I do love you”.

“I love you more! What’s Debbie done now?”

“Something really stupid”

“Like…”

“Like tampering with Joe’s breaks!”

“You’re joking right?”, Paddy said with disbelief written all over his face.

“I wish I was Paddy I wish I was”.

“Ok, so I’m going to pretend I never heard that”

“It’s for the best”, Chas replied kissing him on the head.

“So I’ll be on babysitting duties while you run the bar”.

“Deal, Thank you”. As Chas left the room she looked back and smiled at her man, she knew she got so lucky when they became a couple, she truly did love him with her whole heart. Before heading back to the bar she felt like she had to let Cain know that Debbie had gone awol yet again leaving her kids.

*”Cain, only me. Just wanted to let you know that Debbie went to see Noah and well it didn’t go well. Charity wants nothing to do with her and Debs hasn’t taken it well. She’s gone awol again leaving the kids with me and Paddy. You’ve gotta sort her out before she does something stupid again for the millionth time in her life.”*

***

Arriving back at Noah’s hospital room Charity was still laughing about what had happened to the pair of them, while Vanessa was trying to ignore her.

“Noah babe we’re back! You’ll never guess what happened.”

“Uhhh what you doing?” Vanessa said stopping Charity from blurting out what just happened to them.

“Telling my boy the fun we just got up to!”

“No you’re not. You don’t tell anyone about that!”

“Spoil sport! It’s getting late shall we try and get comfortable on these awful chairs”, Charity said hoping Vanessa would stay again with her.

“I’m going to go…”

“You’re going?” A disappointed Charity said.

“If you’d let me finish I was about to say go and see if I can find someone to ask if they have a bed we could use”.

“For a minute there I thought you were off home”.

“I’m not leaving you, don’t worry! I’ll be back in a few minutes, hopefully with a bed”, Vanessa replied.

“You’d be so proud of me Noah babe, I finally plucked up the courage to tell Vanessa that I loved her. I know you like her and well she’s good for me, when you’re better we’re gunna do things together as a little family, even go on holiday somewhere, anywhere you want. We just need you to wake up now babe”. Charity said taking the hand of her boy.

“I’m back and guess whose getting a bed tonight?” Vanessa excitedly said.

“Really? We can snuggle up we might actually manage to get a few hours sleep tonight!”

“Fingers crossed”.

***

Cain had been driving round for hours looking for Debbie, he was about to give up before finding her up by Home Farm.

“What are you doing here? You are supposed to be keeping a low profile, not going back to the scene of the crime!”, an angry Cain said.

“I’ve got to fix this Dad..”

“And how precisely do you intend to do that?”

“Well I haven’t worked that out yet?”

“I’m only going to say this once so listen very carefully. You messed up majorly with this one, nearly killing your little brother. Who even knows if he will ever make a full recovery. Yet your out here plotting your next move and feeling sorry for yourself, grow up Debbie. This isn’t about you… yes this is all your fault but you trying to sort it and fix it and become the hero isn’t going to help. So just stop being an idiot and go and spend time with your kids, because after Charity is finished with you they might be the only thing left”.

A speechless Debbie just nodded and got back into her car and headed back to her children. Taking in a deep breath Cain stood there, “maybe I can go and spend a night with my family now”, he muttered to himself.

***

Snuggling up tightly on the single hospital bed, Charity and Vanessa finally had a chance to be close to one another and to just relax. The pair knew that tomorrow was a big day for Noah, Vanessa knew that deep down Charity was bricking it but was covering it up trying to be the tough Charity we all knew. “No matter what happens tomorrow with Noah, I’m here. I’m not going anywhere!”, Vanessa said kissing Charity’s back as they spooned.

“He’s going to smash it tomorrow, I know he’s going to wake up”, Charity said trying to put a brave face on things. She pulled Vanessa arms around her tightly and the pair tried to get some sleep.

Chapter 21

Vanessa arrived back at the hospital armed with clothes for both herself and Charity, some of Noah’s favourite things to decorate his hospital room and a bunch of flowers to cheer up her girlfriend. Walking into Noah’s room she was greeted by a massive hug from Charity.

“Babe, I’ve been waiting for you to return for ages”, an excitable Charity said.

“Sorry, I was as quick as I could be”.

“He moved his hand, Noah moved his hand”.

“That’s amazing news, what did the tests show”.

“Still waiting to hear but the fact he moved his hand is really positive”.

“This is the best news”, Vanessa replied passionately kissing Charity. “These are for you!” She said putting the flowers in front of her face, “ I’ve also got Noah’s favourite things, shall we decorate his room?”

“Yes, I’d love that”.

The pair decorated his room with family pictures, some of his favourite video games and last of all Moses had given Vanessa his favourite dinosaur to protect Noah from the baddies.

“Noah, sweetheart… Moses has given you dippy the dinosaur to protect you. He’s going to be beside you at all times ok”, Charity said placing dippy by Noah’s side. “Thank you for this, it looks at lot less like a hospital room now”.

“You are welcome. Right in that bag there are some clothes, go freshen up and change. I’m here I won’t leave his side, ok… I promise you”.

“Yeah I’ll go get changed. Oh if Joe pops his head around the door, let him in. He’s desperate to see Noah”.

“Are you sure? You hate the guy?”

“I know I do, but this wasn’t his false.”

“Okay, now go and take 5 minutes off.”

“Yes boss”, Charity joked.

Charity left to go and freshen up, take a break from staring at machines and grab them both a coffee. While Charity was gone Vanessa took the opportunity to talk to Noah.

“Hey Noah, it’s me Ness. How you doing? We’re all worried sick over here, it’s time to wake up so your mum can see that beautiful smile of yours. Plus you still owe me that video game lesson.” Vanessa said to Noah whilst caressing his cheek, she felt such a strong connection with Noah and she knew that they had so much more to do together.

*knock knock*

“Only me, can I come in?”, Debbie said.

Vanessa who was oblivious to the drama going on between Debbie and Charity replied, “of course”.

“Where’s mum?”

“She just popped out to freshen up and take a break, she won’t be long.”

“How’s he doing?”, Debbie asked.

“He moved his hand earlier, so that’s a positive sign”.

“Hey little bro, I miss you. Can you come home already please, Sarah says she has no one to tease. I’m so sorry Noah. I really am.”

“Debbie it’s not your fault, you didn’t know this was going to happen”, Vanessa said.

Before Debbie could reply Charity walks in the door, “Babe I got us a couple of coffees, I couldn’t remember if yours was a skinny one or…” Charity stopped mid sentence as she saw Debbie stood next to Noah. “You’re not welcome here”, she said in an angry tone.

“I know, but I wanted to come and see how Noah is?”

“Tough, you don’t get to see him. Not after what you’ve done”.

Vanessa stood there looking extremely confused.

“Mum please, I know what I did was unforgivable but i just wanted to see my little brother”.

“You are the reason he is lying in this bed in a coma. This is all your fault, now just get out and don’t come back”.

Debbie rushed out of the room with tears streaming down her face.

“What was all that about? Why is this her fault?”, Vanessa asked.

“I wish I could tell you, but I can’t. Just know she’s not welcome here”.

“Ok, but this isn’t her fault.”

“If I tell you something you have to promise me that you won’t tell a soul, not even Rhona.”

“I promise you, I won’t tell a soul. You can trust me ok?”

“I know. Ok… you might want to sit down”.

“That bad huh?”

“The night Debbie went awol, she visited home farm. She wanted revenge on Joe once and for all, so decided to tamper with his breaks.”

“The breaks?”

“Yeah and speaking to graham yesterday the breaks didn’t respond properly when he went to break which caused them to crash”.

“Wow, so basically what you are saying is the reason they crashed is Debbie”.

“Yeah, hence why I don’t want to see her, hear from her. I cant stand the sight of her. Why would she be so stupid? I mean I’m all for revenge but not when you are putting peoples lives at risk. I don’t know the person she’s turning into? I thought I brought her up to know better”.

“Hey, listen. This is not your fault, you would never do that to anyone, nor would you ever condone it. I cant believe she’s done this”.

“You can’t say anything. As much as I hate her right now, I don’t want her to go to prison. It’s the worst place in the world”.

“I won’t say a word. I promise you”, Vanessa replied. She couldn’t quite believe what she had just heard, she knew the dingles had a chequered past but she didn’t think that Debbie was capable of this. She knew that if she wanted a future with Charity she had to keep her mouth shut. “Going back to the coffees I’ll have which ever one you don’t want”.

“I can’t wait to have something stronger than coffee.”

“How about when Noah’s better and back at home, I take you for a nice romantic dinner and we drink lots and lots of wine. Then we can have lots of fun and lots of sex”, Vanessa said winking at her girlfriend.

“Careful what you say, Noah can hear everything remember”

“Oh yeah.. I mean we can have lots of fun and play rock.. paper.. scissors”.

“That’s my favourite game”.

“What time did the docs say they’d be back with Noah’s results?”

“In about half an hour, I pray something, anything has improved”.

“I’m sure it will have, especially if he squeezed your hand”.

“Is this a bad time?”, Graham said peering around the door.

“No, come in”.

Graham helped push Joe into the room, placing his close to Noah.

“Thank you for letting me come to see him, it means a lot”.

“You’re welcome, do you want some time alone?”

“Would that be ok? I just have some things I need to say to him”.

“Take your time, well go get a bite to eat. If anything happens you’ve got my number”

“Sure thing, enjoy”, Joe replied.

Vanessa and Charity left Graham and Joe with Noah. Charity could hear genuine remorse in Joe’s voice for what had happened to Noah, she felt like she owed him the opportunity to spend time with him.

“That was very nice of you, you know”, Vanessa said as she interlinked arms with her lover.

“I owe him. Yes he shouldn’t have picked up Noah without my permission but he thinks this is his fault and it’s not”.

“I’m proud of you, for being the bigger person”, she said kissing Charity.

Back in Noah’s room Joe is shocked at how understanding Charity is being, maybe he has got her all wrong. Maybe she’s not the monster he thought she was. Taking full advantage of the time he has with his little brother he starts by giving him the best hug he can with his broken arm and Noah being led down.

“Hey little bro, I’m so sorry that our adventure turned into a crash. I take full responsibility for your injuries and I promise you that when you wake up I will get you whatever video games or consoles you want. I wish we could rewind and stop you from getting in the car. I’d do anything to stop you getting hurt, but I’ve promised your mum that from now on we do everything through her. She loves you very much and we all want you to wake up so we can see that cheeky smile of yours”. Joe said trying to hold back the tears.

“That was very sweet of you Joe”, Graham said.

“Do you mind if we wait with him until Charity gets back?”

“Absolutely not”.

“He will wake up won’t he?”

“They seem very positive and he has age on his side, so yes I think he will”, Graham said trying to be as positive as he could be.

“I’m looking for Noah’s mum?”, Dr Noble said as he entered the room.

“She just popped out for some food, do you have news?”, Joe asked.

“We have some news yes, I’d rather wait for her return though”

“Graham do you think you could ring her”

“Yes I will do that now”, Graham said as he stepped out of the room in order to ring Charity. “Charity, the doctor has some news. He’s in Noah’s room now if you could pop back”.

Charity dropped everything and rushed back to Noah’s room. “I’m here, I’m here, so doc what’s this news”.

“Maybe somewhere private?” Dr Noble replied.

“No they can stay”

“So from the tests we took earlier we can see that the internal bleeding has stopped. His liver is responding well to the medication and hopefully all being well we can try and take him out of the coma tomorrow. Now he might not be ready to come out of it, but we will give it a shot”.

“I could bloody kiss you right now! This is the best news ever”, Charity said giving the doctor a hug.

“Like I said let’s not get too excited, but it’s progress and it’s all very positive. I’ll leave you guys to it”.

“Thank you Doctor”, Joe said.

“Yes thanks”, Charity added.

“This is the best news ever!” Vanessa said embracing Charity.

“We will leave you two to it! Thanks again for letting me see Noah”.

“You’re welcome” Charity responded.

Graham and Joe left the two love birds to celebrate.

“He’s going to be ok!” Vanessa said to Charity.

“I can’t believe it. The last day or so have been the worst of my life, but no matter what you were always there. I really don’t know what I did to deserve you but all I know is I am never letting you go. I love you”. Charity said grabbing onto Vanessa’s hand.

“You love me?” A surprised Vanessa said. Did Charity Dingle a woman who doesn’t do feelings just say those three words?

Chapter 20

Charity and Vanessa had both fallen asleep in the most awkward positions on the extremely uncomfortable hospital chairs. Vanessa woke to the sight of Charity asleep holding onto Noah’s hand, she decided to get a flannel and clean Noah’s face of the dried blood from his cuts. She also decided to try and give his hair a brush as she knew he’d want to be looking his best, as Vanessa brushed his hair Charity slowly woke.

“Morning, how did you sleep?”, Vanessa asked a sleepy Charity.

“Not great, the constant beeping was doing my head in. You manage to get any?”

“A little, but i was more worried about you getting some. I’ve given Noah’s face a good wash and brushed his hair the best I could. I know he’d want to look his best for when he has visitors”.

“Thank you, I appreciate you being here with me, well with us more than you’ll ever know”.

“I wouldn’t be anywhere else” Vanessa replied.

“Has the doctor been round yet?”

“Not yet, no. Do you want me to go find him?”

“It’s ok, he’ll be round eventually! You couldn’t do me a massive favour could you?”

“Yeah of course!”

“Can you head back to the pub and pack me some clothes and grab a few of Noah’s things to make him feel at home?”

“Of course I can, I need to go and sort Johnny out too. Ill be back as soon as I can, ok? If anything changes you ring me right away and I’ll come straight back!” Vanessa replied.

Embracing Vanessa, Charity kisses her on the cheek, “thank you. Ill see you in a bit”. Vanessa heads for the door, reluctantly leaving Charity alone, she waits outside the room for a couple of seconds just to make sure Charity was ok.

Moving her chair right up close next to Noah’s bed, Charity reaches for his hand, holding it tight, “Wake up sweetheart, mummy’s here. I’ll look after you”. Vanessa knew that Charity was really struggling, but was putting a brave face on.

“I’m not angry with you for seeing Joe, when you wake we can sort out a schedule for when you two can hang out! Would you like that? I should never have stopped you from seeing him, I’m sorry, you hear me… I’m sorry. Just wake up”. Charity said to Noah hoping that he can hear every word she’s saying.

***

Arriving back at Tug Ghyll a very tired Vanessa opens the door to see her little boy playing with her dad. After the events of the last 24 hours she couldn’t be happier to see her boy safe and happy, “hello little man, mummy’s home”, she said rushing over to Johnny to give him the biggest hug ever.

“Mummy your squeezing me too tight”.

“Sorry sweetheart, I just missed you so much”.

“How’s Noah?” Frank asked.

“No change, Charity’s besides herself. I’m trying to be strong but it’s so hard to see him just lay there motionless”.

“It must be horrendous, just keep being there for her. Teenie, Megan and I will look after Johnny for you, for as long as you need. You need to be there for Charity and Noah!”

“Would that be ok? Obviously I won’t be able to stay at the hospital all the time but will be a relief knowing Johnny is safe with you”.

“Absolutely! Johnny you going to come stay with grandad for a few days while mummy looks after Charity?”

“Can we play dinosaurs?”, johnny asked waving his dinosaur around.

“Of course we can, shall we go pack a bag?”

“Ok”, Johnny said following his Grandad upstairs.

Taking the time to finally sit down and just breathe Vanessa let out a big sigh, she couldn’t quite believe what had happened. As she sat there thinking about things her eyes filled with tears, she didn’t know how Charity was being so strong, if that was Johnny she’d be inconsolable. Wiping the tears away she composed herself before Johnny returned from packing his bag.

“You all ready? Come here little man. I’m sorry I haven’t been around as much lately. But you know I love you to the moon and back”.

“I love you too mummy”, johnny replied giving his mum a big sloppy kiss.

“I’ll come and see you tomorrow, I’ll miss you!”

“Don’t worry Teenie, we will take good care of him. See you later, give Charity our best wishes”.

“Thanks dad, will do”. Vanessa felt like she was being a bad mother loading Johnny off with her dad, but she knew that she had to be a rock for Charity at her time in need. She found comfort in the fact that Johnny loved spending time with his grandad and was young enough to forget about a few days without his mum.

Vanessa quickly hopped in the shower, put on some fresh clothes, packed a few clothes into a bag and made herself a coffee to go.

***

Doctor Noble was on his way to speak to Charity about any updates on Noah’s condition, “Good morning, I hope you managed to get a few hours sleep! These chairs aren’t the comfiest things”.

“You’re telling me! So any update on Noah?”, Charity asked.

“His condition is still the same, but the fact it hasn’t got worse is a very good sign. We are going to do a series of tests and a scan to see how things are doing internally. As soon as he starts to show improvement we will take him out of his coma”.

“So the tests should show you if he’s improved or not?”.

“Yes, we will start to run them immediately”.

“Thank you Doctor”.

“We will need you to wait in the waiting room while the tests are being done, if that’s ok?”

“Yeah that’s fine just take care of my boy”, Charity said squeezing Noah’s hand one last time before leaving to wait in the waiting room.

“Hello Noah, I’m Dr Noble. We are just going to be doing a few tests ok”, he said reassuring Noah.

Charity grabbed herself a coffee to try and give her a hit of energy before making herself comfortable in the waiting room.

“Charity? How’s Noah?” Joe asked nervously.

“No change, still in a coma. The doctors are in there now running some tests”.

“I’m so sorry, I know you will blame me for this, but I truly never meant for this to happen. I just wanted to spend time with my little brother”.

Charity desperately wanted to be angry with Joe and blame him for everything that has happened but she knew the only thing he was guilty of was wanting to spend time with Noah, all be it behind her back. “Look it was an accident, it was no ones fault. But next time you want to see Noah, tell me first please”.

Shocked that Charity hadn’t ripped him apart, Joe responded “of course. I promise. Would it be ok to come and see him later when the doctors have finished?”

“I’m sure he would love to see you. Remember to talk to him, he can hear everything you say”.

“Thank you. I’ll leave you to it. But if there is anything you need let me or Graham know! Ok?”

Deciding to put the past in the past for Noah’s sake Charity agrees.

***

Walking into the pub, Vanessa was bombarded with questions asking how Noah was.

“Any news on Noah?”, Diane asked.

“How’s the little man doing?”, Nicola added.

Addressing everyone in ear shot, “last I heard his condition hadn’t deteriorated which is good news, they were going to run some tests to see if there is any sign of improvement”, Vanessa announced to the pub. “I’d love to stay and chat but need to grab a few things and head back to the hospital”.

“Give them both our love, we are all thinking of them”, Nicola replied.

“Will do”, Vanessa replied as she made her way into the back. “Debbie, you couldn’t help me pick a few of Noah’s things to take back to the hospital could you?”

“Vanessa, hi! How is he? Any change? Yeah I’ll grab some things for him! How’s mum?”, Debbie said nervously.

“No change yet, but he hasn’t got any worse so that’s good! Charity is dealing with things well on the outside but deep down I think she’s struggling. That’s why I want to get back quickly”.

“Do you think she’ll be up for visitors?”

“Possibly yeah, your her daughter I’m sure she’d love to see you”, Vanessa said disappearing upstairs to get Charity some clothes.

“I doubt that”, Debbie muttered to herself as she gathered some of Noah’s things.

“Right, I’ve got some things for them both, shall I let Charity know you will be visiting later?”, Vanessa asked.

“No, don’t get her hopes up just incase I cant”, Debbie replied.

“Ok, well thanks and if I hear any new news I’ll let you know”. Vanessa said making her way to her car ready to go back to the hospital.

Chapter 19

The police had turned up at the pub looking for Charity as they had news regarding her son, the whole pub and Charity waited to hear what they had to say.

“What’s happened to my son?”

“Can we go somewhere private Miss Dingle?”

“No, please just tell me!”, Charity replied trying to hold back the tears.

“He’s been involved in a car crash, he has sustained some serious injuries. The ambulance is taking him to hospital as we speak”.

“No, not my Noah”, A distraught Charity yells. “How?”

“We’re not sure of the nature of the accident but two others were injured in the crash”.

“Ok, I need to get to the hospital”.

“We can take you there now if you’d like”.

“Yeah, ill just grab my bag”, Charity said as she was physically shaking.

“I’ll come with you”, Debbie said as Charity brushed past her.

“I don’t want you anywhere near me right now”, she quietly said as she walked past.

“Debs leave it”, Cain said.

“Chas will you make sure you give Moses and extra long hug tonight, I’ll let you know as soon as I know anything. Rhona can you tell Vanessa please”.

Both Chas and Rhona nodded agreeing to everything Charity had just said.

As Charity left with the police officers tears were streaming down her face, Why was this happening to her? Especially at a time where she was so happy and content.

***

Shock filled the pub, they couldn’t believe what had happened. They were so used to seeing the police coming because Charity had done something illegal, not because her son has been involved in a car accident.

In the back room Cain was trying to calm down an hysterical Debbie. “Debs just breathe”.

“How? How can I breathe? What have I done dad? My little brother is in god knows what state all because I wanted revenge on some idiot who broke my heart”.

“Debs, we don’t know how bad Noah is yet?”

“It doesn’t matter Dad, it’s still my fault. Mums never going to forgive me and I don’t blame her. How could I be so stupid?”

“We all do stupid things when we are mad. I know your upset and scared but this needs to be kept on the down low. We can’t have the cops getting wind of this because you will go away for a very long time”.

“If anything happens to him, they can lock me up. I wouldn’t deserve to be free”.

“Stop, you need to stop saying things like that right now. This can’t leave the family. As far as everyone is concerned right now this was an accident.”

“I should be with them I should be at the hospital!”

“If you go there now things will kick off with your mother and the police will become suspicious. What you need to do is look after the kids, calm down and be prepared for the wrath of Charity when she gets home”.

“Ok, if you hear anything let me know!” Debbie asked.

“Of course, I’ll head down there now”, Cain reluctantly said leaving Debbie on her own. As he walked back to through the pub he pulled Chas aside, “keep an eye on her, I’m worried about”.

“How could she be so stupid Cain?”

“I really don’t know, I’m gunna head to the hospital see what I can find out”.

“You sure that’s a good idea? I doubt you are high on her list of people she wants to see”

“She cant be on her own”.

“Just don’t cause a scene, last thing we need is the police sniffing around. I’ll keep you up to date”.

Cain left to head to the hospital.

***

Charity arrived at the hospital with the police officers who took her straight in to speak with the doctors. As they were walking through the hospital, Charity got an eery feeling, she hated the atmosphere. Before reaching where Noah was in the hospital she saw Graham sat in the waiting area with several cuts and bruises on and around his head and what looked like a dislocated shoulder.

“Graham what happened?” Charity asked.

“Charity, have you seen Noah yet?”

“Not yet no, look what happened?”

“We were driving Noah back from school and a about 5 or 6 sheep ran out in front of the car. I tried to slam the brakes on but they didn’t respond quick enough. I’m so sorry.”

“I need to go find my son”, Charity responded.

The officers escorted Charity to the ward in which Noah was on, “Dr Noble this is Noah’s mother”.

“Miss Dingle it’s a pleasure to meet you”.

“Charity please”.

“Charity, your son sustained some very serious injuries in the crash, as a precaution we have placed him in an induced coma to try and allow his body time to try and recover”.

“A coma?”

“With all the internal bleeding and damage to some of his organs it was the best and safest option. Like I said it’s a precaution and we’re hoping that in time his body will sort itself out”.

“Can I see him please?”, Charity asked with tears rolling down her face.

“Of course, follow me. The wires and machines will look very scary but I promise you they are helping him”.

Feeling numb Charity just nodded.

As the door opened the first thing to hit Charity was the noise, the noise of all the machines, beeping constantly. She then saw her little man led there hooked up to several machines, cuts and bruises all over him. She reached for his hand, holding it tighter than she had ever held anything before in her life. “I’m here little man, mummy’s here”, she said with tears streaming down her face, “I won’t leave your side I promise you”.

“I’ll leave you to have some alone time with your son. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask”, Dr Noble said.

“He will wake won’t he? He will be ok?”

“We are very hopeful that with time Noah will make a full recovery”.

“Thank you” Charity replied as she sat there holding her sons hand.

Graham knocked on the door to Noah’s room, “I just wanted to check how he was doing?”

“He’s in an induced coma, but they are very hopeful that he will make a full recovery. What about you? Joe?”

“I was lucky, a few cuts and a dislocated shoulder. Joe he’s broken both his leg and an arm, but he’ll be ok. I’m so sorry, I tried so hard to break”.

“I’m glad you are both ok, but I’d like to be alone with my son please”. Graham left the room leaving the two of them in peace. Charity knew that non of this was Graham or Joe’s fault, it was all Debbie’s. How could she be so stupid.

Charity didn’t want to leave Noah’s side for a second but she knew that she had to let Chas know what was happening. Leaving the room for a second she quickly rang Chas and filled her in.

***

Chas’s complexion had gone white after hearing the news about Noah, she headed back to the bar to let people know what was happening.

“Chas everything ok?” Paddy asked, who was sat with half the village.

“That was Charity, Noah’s in a coma”

“Oh my god, a coma? That’s really bad isn’t it?” Tracy asked.

“Poor lad”, Pete added.

“It’s an induced coma, which is supposedly going to help give his body time to recover”, Chas replied.

“I can’t believe this is happening, he’s so young. I only saw him this morning getting on the bus”, Rhona explained.

“Will you mind the bar for me Paddy, while I go tell Debbie”.

“Sure thing”, he said kissing Chas on the forehead.

Trying to keep her anger to a minimum Chas sat down next to Debbie. “You’ve heard something haven’t you? It’s bad I can tell by your face” Debbie said.

“He’s in an induced coma”.

“What? No.. a coma?”

“It’s for the best as they want to give his body time to recover”

“What have I done? My little brother is in a coma because of me”.

“Not gunna lie Debs you have well and truly messed up here. But like your dad said you have to keep your mouth shut”.

“What if he doesn’t wake up?”

“Let’s not even think about that right now, we have to stay positive for everyone. I think it best for everyone if you get an early night tonight”.

“Don’t worry I’ll stay out the way”.

***

Back at the hospital Cain had arrived to see Charity and Noah, “Can I come in?”

“I don’t want to see you cain. You were supposed to fix this!”, Charity said as Cain embraced her. “I was relying on you”.

“I know, I’m sorry. I let you down”.

“Look at my boy, this is all her fault. Why.. why did she have to be so stupid”

“I don’t know, she wasn’t thinking. Its just a horrible stupid mistake”

“Don’t make excuses for her”

“She’s our daughter Charity!”

“Yeah but he’s my son, Look I don’t have time to think about her right now. My priority is Noah, so I’d appreciate it if you just left”.

“Ok, but if you need anything I’m a phone call away ok?”

“Yeah”.

Cain decided it was probably best not to argue with Charity today so left. As he was leaving he bumped into an agitated Vanessa. “Cain, I’m here to see Charity”.

“She’s not really up for visitors”

“Please, just tell me where she is!”

“Third room on the right”

“Thanks”.

*knock knock*

“Cain I’ve already told you, I’m fine please just leave me alone”.

“It’s not Cain, it’s me”, Vanessa said in a quiet manner. “Come here”, she said as she rushed over to give Charity a hug. “He’s going to be alright, I promise you. I will be right by your side every sep of the way”.

“Thank you”, Charity responded grabbing her hand and squeezing it tight. “I just can’t believe this has happened”.

“I know, when Rhona told me I couldn’t believe it.”

“Nothing can happen to my baby Ness! I’d never forgive myself”.

“Hey, enough of that. He will be fine, we have to remain positive. Has the doctor said you can stay here tonight?”

“I haven’t even asked. I’m not leaving him though”.

“I’ll go find someone and find out! I’ll get us some coffee too!”.

“Thanks babe”, Charity replied kissing Vanessa hand as she let it go.

Chapter 18

Trying to keep herself busy Charity decided to cook breakfast for everyone, as much as she despised Joe she never wanted Debbie to tamper with his car. She couldn’t quite believe that Debbie would stoop so slow especially when it could put others in danger.

“What’s this?” Noah said as he walked into see breakfast on the table.

“Morning babe, just thought I’d treat everyone to a nice breakfast”.

“But you never cook breakfast, what’s happened?”

“Nothing, can’t a mother treat her sons”.

“I guess. Is it ok if I get the bus home from school today? Only there’s a video game club happening after school today.”

“Of course, just text me and let me know when you are on your way home ok?”

“Thanks, will do.”

“Get stuck in then, there’s plenty to go around. You too Sarah come and get some breakfast. Where’s your mum?” Charity said.

“She said she had something to take care of”, Sarah replied.

Noah and Sarah finished off their breakfast before getting ready to head to school, “have a good day kiddos”, Charity said as the pair headed off to school.

“Something smells nice?” Chas asked as she walked in from a night at Paddy’s. “Charity Dingle cooking breakfast, what’s happened?”

“Nothing you need to worry about!”

“I was joking, but you clearly weren’t. What’s happened?”

“Debbie”

“What about Debbie?”

“She tampered with Joe’s breaks on his car”

“You are joking right?”

“I wish I was”.

“If anything happens she’ll go down for murder”.

“Yes I know that Chas, you don’t need to remind me. They went to try and sort it last night but the car had gone.”

“What do you mean gone?”

“As in it wasn’t there”.

“This is bad, this needs to get sorted”.

“I know, I’m on it ok.” Charity replied.

“Where is she now?”

“If I knew that I wouldn’t be stood here talking to you.”

“Well go then, go find her and sort this. I’ll open up”.

Charity grabbed her coat and went to find Debbie to find out how she was going to sort this problem. She jumped in her car and headed towards Cain and Moira’s place to see what his plan was to help Debbie.

When she arrived she saw that Debbie’s car was already there which meant that they had already started planning things. Bursting through the door without knocking Charity enters, “you two better have a plan”.

“Ever heard of knocking”, Moira replied.

“There’s no time for knocking, have you two got a plan.”

“We’re heading back tonight, hoping that the car is back. We will replace the breaks and forget any of this ever happened” Cain said calmly.

“And what if it’s not there?” Charity replied.

“Then we fake a letter saying that Joe’s car needs to go to a garage as there’s a product recall or something”.

“You really think that Joe Tate would choose to use your garage? Great plan, I didn’t even know why I was worried”.

“You’re sarcasm is not needed right now Mum”, Debbie added.

“Oh I’m sorry Debs, I don’t really need any of this right now, but guess what I don’t have a choice”.

“Both of you pack it in now.” An angry Cain shouted. “Look we will sort this Charity, ok! But we don’t need you faffing about and getting in the way. So please leave us to it and we will let you know when everything is sorted”.

“Fine, but when this all goes tits up don’t expect me to bail you both out”. Charity replied as she slammed the door on her way out.

***

Chas who had a worried look covering her face opened up the pub for lunch time rush, she was keeping one eye on her phone and the other on the door waiting for any news. She’d been in situations before with Debbie where she had acted before thinking, she knew that Debbie had a mean streak.

“Hello, glass of wine please Chas? Hello?” Rhona said talking to Chas who looked a million miles away. “Earth to Chas?”

“Oh Sorry, was away with the fairies.”

“No worries, everything ok?”

“Yeah, just the usually Dingle drama. The usual?”

“Yes please.”

“How are things with Pete?”

“Yeah really good, taking things slowly but I really like him”.

“I’m really glad, I’m happy for you Rhona”, Chas replied as an angry Charity walked through the door. “I best go check everything’s ok”.

“What happened?”, Chas asked Charity.

“They’ve got it under control apparently, they don’t need my interference”.

“Ok, so we wait to hear that they’ve sorted it! Until then we act like normal”.

“Yeah I guess, let me nip for a quick shower and I’ll be down to help. Didn’t get chance this morning and well had some fun last night so feeling rather dirty” Charity said winking at a Chas.

“Stop, too much information. Just go and come help when your ready”.

***

Charity was beginning to become a bit anxious as she hadn’t received from Noah saying that he had got on the bus after his gaming club. She wanted to ring him but she also wanted to give him that bit of independence to show that she trusted him.

“Chas, Noah hasn’t messaged to say he’s on the bus yet, do you think I should give him a text?”

“What time did his club finish?”

“About 15 minutes ago”.

“He should be home any minute I wouldn’t worry too much”.

“You’re right, I’m just panicking.”

Trying to take her mind off of Noah she decides to go and collect the empty glasses from the pub. Noah still hadn’t arrived back by the time she had finished collecting the glasses so she decided to wipe down the tables too. Deciding enough was enough she rings Noah, it rings and rings but no one picks up.

*Noah please let me know where you are, I’m beginning to worry. Ring me please*

“Chas something’s happened I can feel it, why isn’t he picking up his phone.”

“I wish I knew, was Samson going to this club with Noah. Why don’t you check to see if he is home?”

“Good idea”.

Searching frantically through her phone to find Sam’s number Charity began to shake. “Sam, it’s Charity. Did Samson go to that gaming club after school?”

“He did Yeah…”

“And he’s home?”

“Yeah he got back about 20 minutes ago, why?”

“Noah’s not home and I’m worried.”

“Samson said that Joe Tate picked him up from school just as the bus was leaving”.

“Joe Tate, picked him up”, a panicked charity dropped her phone, she could breathe.

“Charity… hello Charity”, Sam said as he didn’t now Charity had dropped her phone.

Chas rushed over to Charity, “what’s happened, what’s wrong?”

“Joe…”

“What about Joe?”

“He picked up Noah.. in the car”.

“The car?”

“Yep, and he’s not home. Somethings happened”.

“Breathe just breathe”, chas said trying to keep Charity calm. “Rhona can you ring home farm for me please?”

“Uhh.. yeah sure”, reaching for her phone Rhona rang Home farm. “There’s no response, do you want me to keep trying?”

“Yes please”.

“Where my boy Chas?” A worried Charity quietly said.

“I don’t know, but he’s going to be ok”. Taking herself away from Charity for a second Chas rings her brother. “Cain you and Debbie need to get here now, Joe Tate picked Noah up from school. He isn’t home and isn’t picking up his phone. You better hope and pray nothing has happened to him”.

Chas headed back to Charity who was beside herself with worry. “Rhona any luck?”

“No still no answer, do you want me to try Joe’s mobile? I’m sure someone will have it. I’ll go find jimmy, he’ll have his number”.

“Thanks”.

“I want my boy Chas, I want him here with me”.

“I know, we’ll find him. He’s probably somewhere having some food, or shopping for another expensive present”. Chas said trying to be optimistic.

In rushed Cain and Debbie, “any news?”

Shaking her head Chas replied, “nothing”.

“Mum, Noah will be fine I promise you”.

“Don’t touch me Debs, if anything has happened to my boy I will never ever speak to you again. How could you be so stupid!”.

“Look we don’t know that anything has happened yet, we got to stay positive”. Cain said trying to keep the peace.

“Don’t tell me what to do Cain. I cant sit here waiting to hear or waiting for Noah to walk through that door. I need to go look for him”.

“I’ll come with you”, Debbie replied.

“I don’t want you anywhere near me”, Charity angrily replied as she walked towards the door. She was stopped in her tracks as the police walked in, “Were looking for Charity Dingle?”

“That’s me?”

“It’s about your son, Noah”

Chapter 17

The pair couldn’t keep their hands off one another whilst making their way up to Charity’s room, banging into the wall in their haste.

“Ouch”, Vanessa yelled as Charity accidentally pushed her into the wall.

“Sorry babe, can’t exactly see what I’m doing with your face attached to mine”, she mumbled.

They eventually reached the bedroom, Charity ripped off Vanessa shirt ripping off a button or two in the process.

“That’s my favourite shirt!” Vanessa said.

“I’ll sew them back on”.

With their tongues tied, Charity grabs Vanessa around the waist and pulls her in tight. Charity kneels, undoing Vanessa’s trousers and sliding them down her legs. Sliding her hand into Vanessa’s lingerie, Charity prepares to show Vanessa exactly what her hands are capable of. This leading to Vanessa letting out a loud moan, as Charity continued the moaning became louder and louder.

“There… right there”, Vanessa shouted.

Pushing Vanessa onto the bed Charity decided to give her hand a break and move on to giving her tongue a work out. With Vanessas breathing becoming faster and faster Charity knew she was hitting the right spot. Moments later Vanessa shouted “I’m coming”, as her body shook in pleasure.

Licking her lips a gleeful Charity asked “enjoy that babe?”.

Vanessa couldn’t find the words, she just lay there and nodded at her girlfriend with a huge grin on her face. Once Charity had made her way onto the bed, Vanessa immediately climbed on top of her.

“Don’t move” said Vanessa with authority.

To ensure Charity couldn’t move Vanessa pinned her down, looking into Charity’s eyes she passionately kisses her before moving her way down. Unzipping Charity’s suit trousers Vanessa sensually inserted her hand down into her knickers ready show Charity a good time.

Laying there getting their breath back Charity decides to bring up a conversation she had earlier with Sarah, “so what’s this about Sarah being a bridesmaid at our wedding?” She asked turning to face Vanessa.

A blushing Vanessa replied, “oh she told you about that ey?”.

“She did, she told me you’d also let her pick her own dress, I mean that’s brave of you. She has questionable taste in fashion.”

“I just wanted her to like me, I mean it’s not like there’s going to be a wedding anytime soon is there… if at all”.

“Anytime soon?”

“You know what I mean, it’s a figure of speech. I know your not a mrs and mrs person don’t worry” Vanessa replied trying to cover her tracks.

“Figure of speech? I’ve never heard of it before, are you saying you’d want to marry me one day?” Charity teased.

“Well… if we were still together and the timing was right then yes I don’t see why not.

Charity was stopped in her tracks as there was loud banging down stairs, who could it possibly at this time of the morning. Were they being broken into? Or was it Debbie returning home?

“What was that?” A worried Vanessa asked.

“I have no idea, stay here.” Charity said protecting her girlfriend.

“Be careful.”

“Will do”.

Charity quietly made her way downstairs to see what the hell was going on. She heard movement in the bar, she crept over to the light switch, turning it on to find Debbie covered in a thick black liquid swigging whiskey straight from the bottle.

“Debs where the hell have you been? What are you covered in?” A concerned Charity asked.

“The less you know the better!”, Debbie replied downing the whiskey.

“What have you done? You better start talking young lady?”

“Let’s just say that smug smile will soon be wiped off Joe Tates face”.

“What do you mean?”

“I may or may not have tampered with his car breaks”.

“DEBBIE!” A furious Charity replied. “Please tell me you are joking?”

“No, he’s taken things too far with this family. He nearly ruined my life”.

“That doesn’t mean you can mess with his breaks. Call your father immediately”

“It’s the middle of the night!”

“Either you call him or I will”

“Alright I’ll call him”.

While Debbie called Cain, Vanessa came downstairs to check everything was ok. “Pssst” Vanessa whispered, “Everything ok?

“Yeah it’s just Debbie, she’s had a few too many drinks”.

“Want me to go?”

“No, stay here. I’ll be up as soon as I’ve sorted her out. Hopefully won’t be long”, Charity said kissing her girlfriend goodnight, Vanessa headed back upstairs.

“Who was that?” Debbie asked.

“Just Vanessa! So what did Cain say?”

“He’s on his way here now”.

“Good maybe he can knock some sense into you”. Charity didn’t take her eye off Debbie as they both waited for Cain to arrive.

“Debbie what the hell have you done?” Cain said walking into the pub.

“I did what should have been done weeks ago. Ive tampered with the breaks on his car, I haven’t cut them but they will soon wear away”.

“You’re kidding me? Joe is not the only man to use that car, Graham uses it, Ross has used it and even Jimmy. Why would you be this stupid?” An angry Cain replied.

“Not only that the car could drive into another car with god knows who in it” Charity added.

“You’ve got to sort this Debbie before somebody gets hurt”.

“Alright, we can head back there now and fix them. But I’m a little drunk so you’ll have to help” Debbie slurred.

“You’ve got to do whatever it takes to sort this Cain, promise me?”

“Yep I promise, Right lets go before this gets out of hand”. Cain responded.

An angry and disappointed Charity headed upstairs to try and get some sleep. Being as quiet as she could, she crept back into bed trying her hardest not to wake a sleeping Vanessa.

“All sorted?” Vanessa said half asleep.

“Yeah, don’t worry go back to sleep”, Charity said cosying up to Vanessa.

***

Elsewhere Cain and Debbie were on their way back to home farm to try and sort out the mess Debbie had made.

“Why did you do this Debs?”

“I’m fed up with him hurting my family”.

“There are other ways Deb. Ones that won’t result in death or serious injury”.

“Maybe I wasn’t thinking but I was so angry”.

“Look it will be fine once we have sorted his breaks”.

They parked up the car far enough away from the house so it was out of sight, they grabbed the tools and headed for the car.

“Where’s the car?” Cain asked.

“It was right there… in front of that window”.

“Well it’s not there now is it! They must have an early work call or something.”

“What we gonna do dad?”

“We have to hope and pray that nothing happens today and well have to come back every night until we manage to sort this mess”.

“I’m sorry.”

“You have to use your brain before you do stupid things like this in the future. I won’t always be here to bail you out you know”.

“I know, I promise I’ll be more sensible from now on”.

“Right lets get you home”.

Cain dropped Debbie back off at the Wool Pack, where she headed for a shower and for a couple of hours sleep.

***

Vanessa woke early as she wanted to be at home for when Johnny woke as she knew she hadn’t been the best mother recently. She left a note next to a sleeping Charity which read *Morning, hope all is ok this morning. I’ll speak to you later xoxo*.

Charity woke hoping to hear that everything had all been sorted last night and they had fixed the breaks on Joes car. After reading the note Vanessa left she made her way downstairs to find out what happened last night.

“Did you sort things?”

“Not really?”

“What do you mean not really? You either did or didn’t Deb, it’s a pretty simple question”.

“The car wasn’t there.”

“What do you mean the car wasn’t there?”

“It had gone, they must be using it for a business meeting or something?”

“You better hope nothing happens today, fix this Debbie. Fix it”.

“I will, I promise”.

Chapter 16

In the back room, Vanessa was still looking after the kids and they were just finishing up eating their dinner. Moses and Jack were sat in their high chairs playing with the remainder of their dinner, covered in food. Noah had already finished his dinner and was back upstairs playing video games, but Sarah was taking the time to get to know her Grandmas girlfriend.

“So are you Granny Charity’s girlfriend?” Sarah asked.

“I am yes”, Vanessa replied.

“That’s cool, so will you be like a grandma too? Will you get married?”

“I don’t know, maybe one day.”

“Can I be a bridesmaid?”.

“If there is ever a wedding, you can 100% be a bridesmaid. I’ll even let you pick out your own dress”.

“YES”, Sarah replied doing a little celebratory dance.

“Right I’m going to give the boys a quick bath before bed, then if your hair salon is still open I’d love to try some new styles out?”

“It will be open yes”, an excited Sarah replied.

“Can you let Charity know that I’m going to bath your brother and Moses”.

“Yeah, I’ll go tell her now”.

Vanessa took the boys upstairs, ready to bathe them and get them ready for bed. Sarah decided to clean away the plates and tidy around so that when Vanessa had finished with the boys, she could have all of Vanessa’s attention.

“What have you done with the Sarah I know and love?” Charity joked as she wasn’t used to seeing Sarah tidy up. “Where’s Vanessa and the boys?”

“Noah’s playing video games and Vanessa is giving Moses and Jack a bath as they were covered in food. Then she’s letting me do her hair”.

“A bath? What a star, saves me a job later! Make sure you are being nice to her young lady!”

“I am don’t worry, she’s going to let me be her bridesmaid”

“Bridesmaid?” Charity said with a shocked expression on her face.

“Yeah, when you two get married!”

“Wait, what?”

“She said if the two of you ever get married I can be her bridesmaid and pick my dress”.

“Well that was very nice of her and you would most definitely be our bridesmaid”.

“Any sign of mum?”, Sarah asked.

“Not yet kiddo, she’ll be fine I promise you”, Charity said giving Sarah a hug. “I’ve got to get back to the bar, make sure you don’t ruin Vanessa hair too much… I happen to like it”.

“Don’t worry Granny Charity I won’t”.

“Less of the Granny”, she replied walking back to the bar.

The pub door opened, every ounce of Charity wished and prayed it would be Debbie walking through the door, instead it was just Cain.

“What are you doing here? Why aren’t you out looking for Debbie?”

“I’ve looked everywhere I can think of, I figured she’ll come back here eventually”.

“What if it’s too late? Look we’ve failed Debbie too much in her life, I’m not letting her do something she will regret. She’s not ruining her life for that obnoxious man”.

“She’s not a child anymore, even if I find her what’s to say she’ll listen to me?”, Cain replied.

“Then you drag her back here by her ear if you must. Her children need her, as do I”.

“I know that, look let me go check on Moira and Issac and then I’ll go out and look again. You ok with Sarah and Jack tonight?”

“Yeah, Vanessa’s helping out”.

“I’m glad you’ve found someone that makes you happy, seeing that smile back on your face reminds me of the good times. Don’t ruin it Charity!”

“I won’t”, Charity replied struggling to make eye contact with Cain. “Let me know as soon as you hear anything”.

“Will do”, Cain replied making his way out of the pub to go check on his family.

***

Vanessa had bathed both the boys, read them a bedtime story and tucked them into bed. As she was doing it she felt guilty for not being able to put Johnny to bed as much as she should recently due to nights with Charity. For the next few weeks she was going to make it a priority to put Johnny to bed every night and read him his favourite story. Heading back downstairs she found an excited Sarah ready with all of her hair equipment; “ready for me?”

“Yes, come take a seat in my salon”.

“Why thank you”.

“So what can I do for you today?”

“I would like you to surprise me with a new hair do, that will impress your grandma”.

“Leave it with me”, Sarah replied as she began work on Vanessa hair.

While Sarah was working on Vanessa hair, the expression on Vanessa’s face changed the more clips and hair bands that were being placed in her hair. Time passed, Sarah had finished her masterpiece, it was a cross between a hedgehog and a porcupine.

“Finished, there’s a mirror over there. Go take a look”, an excited Sarah said.

A nervous Vanessa slowly walked over to the mirror, she knew that for the next few minutes she would need to call on her acting skills to pretend this hairstyle was perfect. “Wow, Sarah I actually really like”.

“Wow, Babe you look a million dollars”, Charity joked as she saw Vanessa’s hairstyle.

“Do you like granny?” Sarah asked.

“Yeah babe it looks really really cool”, Charity said winking at Vanessa.

“Well lucky for you Sarah is free now and can do your hair?”, Vanessa replied smirking.

“Oh I’d love to have my hair done but I’m busy in the pub, as you know only one pair of hands”.

“I can cover the bar for you, come spend some quality time with your granddaughter”.

“Oh will you?” Sarah asked.

Giving Vanessa the death stare, Charity reluctantly agrees to let Sarah do her hair, “Sure thing babe, want me to take a seat”.

“Yes, right there” Sarah said pointing at the chair.

“I will go keep an eye on the bar, have fun ladies.”

***

Caught up in the moment of tricking Charity into getting her hair done, Vanessa forgot that hers looked the way it did. Walking out behind the bar she was welcomed with a range of strange looks, a few laughs and a couple of “What has happened to your hair?”, Nicola and Jimmy asked.

“Sarah happened. Trying it bond with her”.

“Well I think it looks lovely”, Jimmy said trying to be nice. “We will have a large glass of white and a pint for me please”.

“No problem. Coming right up for you”. Vanessa handed the drinks over to Nicola and Jimmy.

“Teenie, What has happened to your hair?”, Frank said trying to hold in the laughter.

“Don’t start Dad”.

Reaching for his phone, Frank quickly took a picture capturing Vanessa’s wonderful hairstyle. “Smile”.

“I’m glad I amuse you all, now do you want a drink or not?”

“Pint please”.

Vanessa poured her Dad a pint, but it was clear to see that she didn’t really know what she was doing. In walked Chas to the rescue, “where’s Charity?” A confused Chas asked. “And what has happened to your hair?”

“Sarah happened to my hair and she’s currently getting a makeover by Sarah too”.

“When shes supposed to be working?”

“Long story short, Debbie’s gone awol and Charity was left with all the kids so I came to help her out and well we both got a make over”.

“Ok. Why’s Debbie gone awol?”

“Something about Joe? I don’t really know much more”.

“Oh god. Ok, ummm me and Paddy will take over from you. Thank you for your help, you may go rescue charity”. Chas told Vanessa.

A relieved Vanessa can finally head back to Charity and Sarah and just chill for the rest of the evening. Excited to see how bad Charity’s hair looks, she rushes through to the back. “Oh my god… you look fantastic”. Vanessa sarcastically said looking at Charity whose hair looks like it’s been dragged through a hedge backwards, as Sarah has back combed it like crazy.

“This is the look I’m going to go for from now on”, Charity joked.

“It suits you, really loving the bed head look”, Vanessa teased as she grabbed Charity for a hug.

“You two are cute”, Sarah said.

“Bed you! It’s already past your bedtime, I don’t want your mother having a go at me”.

“Don’t worry she’ll never know, thanks for an amazing evening Vanessa. I had fun”.

“You’re welcome sweetheart, we will do it again soon”.

“Night babe, see you in the morning”, Charity said giving her granddaughter a hug.

The couple finally had the room to themselves and they could both breathe a giant sigh of relief as the pair manic evening was over.

“Well that was an interesting evening!” Charity expressed.

“It was fun though, I mean we look like a right pair but they are great kids and I had fun”.

“Seeing you with the kids put the biggest smile on my face. And I am so glad they like you”.

“I’m so glad they like me too. So DVD and a snuggle on the sofa?”

“I’ll get the wine, you can pick the film. Just nothing too mushy”. Charity replied.

“Yes boss”.

The couple snuggled up on the sofa ready to watch “the heat” but before Vanessa could press play Charity grabbed her hand and pulled Vanessa towards her. “How about we forget the film and skip to the fun stuff”.

“I thought you were never going to ask!”

Leading Charity upstairs Vanessa prepares to take control….

Chapter 15

“Cain, call me back as soon as you get this”, said a frantic Charity who still had no idea where Debbie had gone. Charity knew her daughter and she knew that the look Debbie had in her eyes was one of anger and payback.

“Debbie, don’t do anything stupid. Just come back here and we can talk about things. Look at least let me know where you are”.

Pacing back and forth Charity was starting to get impatient, she knew the longer it took to find Debbie the higher the risk of her having done something stupid. As well as trying to locate Debbie, she was also in charge of looking after Noah, Moses, Sarah and Jack and running the pub.

“Mum what’s for dinner?”, Noah asked.

“Babe not now, I’ll sort something out in a minute. Grab some crisps or something”.

“Ok, shall I get some for everyone?”

“Yeah, thanks babe”.

“Why is no one answering my calls?”, Charity shouted to herself.

“Everything ok?”, Rhona asked.

“Debbie’s on the war path, I can’t get hold of her dad, I’m in charge of the pub on my own, oh and 4 kids. Other than that I’m fine”, Charity said in a sarcastic manner. “Sorry, I know you were only asking”.

“Anything I can do?”

“Know how to pour a pint?”

“Ummm no, but I can sit with the kids for a bit?”

“Would you? That would be amazing. Thanks Rhona”.

With Rhona watching the kids, Charity turned her focus back onto stopping Debbie doing anything stupid.

“Cain pick up the phone. Debbie’s in trouble”. With Cain not picking up his phone Charity decided to try Moira’s phone.

“Charity, what can I do for you?”

“Look is Cain there? I really need to speak to him”.

“Umm Yeah I’ll grab him”, Moira replied.

“What is it now Charity?”, Cain said.

“It’s our daughter actually, she’s gone awol and is on the war path”.

“What do you mean she’s gone awol?”

“As in she’s not replying to my messages and wants to deal with Joe Tate once and for all”.

“What’s he done now?”

“Nothing to her, his sleazy business partner made a pass at me and well Joe just said some things about my past”.

“I’ll kill him.”

“Cain, just go find Debbie please. Let me know as soon as you find her”.

“Right, ok. I think I might know where she is”.

Charity felt relieved that Cain was out on the hunt for Debbie, she knew the kids were being looked after all she needed to sort now were the punters waiting for their pints.

“Right whose next”.

***

Meanwhile Rhona was doing her best to entertain the kids, Noah was upstairs playing on his video games while waiting for his dinner. Moses and Jack were happy playing with Moses dinosaurs and Sarah was trying to persuade Rhona to let her give her a makeover. Rhona knew that she had to be back home soon to look after Leo, but she didn’t want to leave Charity on her own, she had an idea.

“Hiya Rhona, everything ok?”, Vanessa said as she answered her phone.

“Yes all fine, currently at the pub watching Charity’s children and grandchildren”.

“Why are you doing that? Something happened.”

“Debbie’s done a runner, something about Joe. She’s running the pub single handedly and to make things worse I’ve got to get back to Leo. I was ringing to see if there is any chance you could come and take over from me? I know Charity would be really grateful and would probably repay you in sexual favours”. Rhona teased Vanessa.

“Ohh go on then, I’ll be over in 5. Let’s pretend this was my idea though.. might win me some brownie points with the kids”.

“Thanks ness, see you in a few”.

Listening into the conversation, Sarah wondered why her mum had gone after Joe. “What’s Joe done to my mum?” Sarah asked Rhona.

“Oh sweetheart you heard that. I really don’t know what he’s done, but I’m sure everything will be fine”.

“He’s not a very nice man is he?”

“No he’s not. Neither were his parents though”.

“My mum will be ok won’t she?”

“Of course she will”.

***

Vanessa walked into the woolpack to see her girlfriend rushed off her feet trying to serve everyone waiting. It was a rare sight to see Charity working hard, Vanessa decided to watch for a couple of minutes.

“Babe, what are you doing here? Thought you were busy tonight”, a rushing Charity shouted across the bar.

“Well I was, but I heard you were rushed off your feet here and needed someone to look after the kids. So I thought it would be a good opportunity to get to know them a bit more”.

“I could kiss you right now, but as you can see I don’t have to time”.

“I’ll go get the kids tea ready”, Vanessa replied.

Charity stood there smiling, as she couldn’t quite believe how lucky she’s got having someone like Vanessa in her life.

Before heading into the back room, Vanessa went to ask Marlon if he could knock up some meals for the kids. “Marlon I need a favour, 4 children’s meals please.”

“Sure thing, you In charge of the little ones”.

“Yeah, bit nervous to tell you the truth. I just want them to like me”

“Of course they’ll like you Ness, who doesn’t”, Marlon said.

“Fingers crossed, So you’ll bring it in when it’s ready then?”

“Yep, be about 20 minutes”.

Vanessa made her way into the back where Rhona was entertaining Sarah by allowing her to do give her a new hairstyle. It was a cross between pigtails and a high pony, let’s just say it didn’t suit Rhona much.

“Looking good there Rhona!”

“Vanessa, your turn next”, Rhona joked.

“Oh can I? You’re hair is beautiful and I’d love to give it a go”,

“Of course you can. Firstly It’s dinner time, Marlon is cooking us all some food. Will you help me get the boys ready?”

“Yeah I’ll help, Jack, Moses dinner time”. Sarah said as she wondered off to get the boys ready for their dinner.

“She’s a good kid! Honestly how bad is the hair situation?” Rhona quietly asked Vanessa.

“Yeah it’s not great, I hope Petes not waiting for you at home”.

“Funny… right I’ll leave you too it. Have fun.”

“Thanks, see you tomorrow”.

“Right kids, whose hungry?”, Vanessa asked.

Marlon had worked his magic and prepared yummy meals for everyone. Sat at the table everyone started tucking into their food.

***

Before leaving the pub, Rhona quickly fixed her hair before Charity could take the piss out of her. “I’m off now, they are all in there eating their dinner. I hope you find Debbie and everything’s ok”.

“Thank you Rhona you were a life saver today and thanks for ringing Ness. I hope she survives back there”.

“You’re welcome! She’ll be fine, she’s good with kids”.

“We should get some drinks later in the week, i need to buy you a couple of rounds to thank you”.

“Sounds good, right best to put Leo to bed”.

“See ya”, Charity responded.

*phone rings*

“Cain, you found her yet?”

“No, I’ve looked everywhere I can think of. I’m worried”.

“She’s gunna do something stupid I know she is”.

“I’ll keep looking but I’m running out of places to look”.

“Keep me informed, and Cain?”

“Yeah”

“Thanks”.

“Don’t mention it, she’s our daughter”. Cain replies. Charity put the phone down in an angry manner, “oh Debs where are you?” She said to herself.

Charity popped her head around the door to see how Vanessa and the kids were getting on, they were all sat around the table eating their dinner. Charity thought to herself, could this be my future? Family dinners with the people she loves.