by S M Mala
Maddy had to laugh.
‘Here.’
Stan was on her doorstep the following Thursday as Maddy opened the door. He handed over the lead. ‘I’ll pick her up on Monday morning.’
‘Thanks. Hello Phyllis!’ Maddy held her door open and watched Phyllis run in. ‘See you later.’
She shut the door and held her breath.
After telling Dora what had happened and swearing she was a romantic fool, Maddy kept out of Stan’s way. She knew what he did most days, even walking Phyllis, but realised her humiliation was for her heart only.
Plus, she didn’t want to see him with Giselle.
‘And what a day we have lined up!’ she said, watching Phyllis run straight out into the garden and try to jump up in the air when she saw the butterflies. ‘Don’t eat them. We have spaghetti Bolognese for dinner and lunch-.’
There was a knock on her door, and she opened it.
Stan was still standing on her doorstep.
Maddy tried not to betray her hurt about him banging Giselle so smiled sweetly.
‘Yes?’ she asked, not opening the door fully. ‘Can I help you?’
‘You usually invite me in for a drink,’ he said, scowling.
‘I’m really busy today as I have a lot of things to do. And you’re probably very busy too.’
‘Can I come in?’
She let out a little sigh, holding open the door so he could walk in. It’s when he stopped at what she was doing and turned to look at her, did Maddy frown.
‘I’m clearing some things out. I need a spring clean.’
‘It’s the second week of May. I thought people did that in April.’
‘May is classified as spring.’ She walked to the kitchen and put on the kettle knowing he wanted to talk. Giselle was probably the hot topic of conversation. ‘Tea or coffee?’
‘You know I only drink tea.’
‘You might have changed your mind in over a week.’ Then she mumbled. ‘Like you have on your choice of women.’
‘What did you say?’ he asked, starting to laugh.
‘Nothing.’
‘Why didn’t you come over and say hello on Sunday?’ he asked, walking into the kitchen. ‘You’ve sat in the same seat for months.’
‘It was occupied, and I didn’t want to squeeze in on the action.’ Pouring out the hot water into the teapot to heat it up before tossing it out, she dropped two tea bags in. ‘Anyway, I’d interrupted you both on Friday. The last thing I want is Giselle to think is that I’m a third wheel.’
‘About Friday. You see-.’
‘No need to explain.’ She held up her hand. ‘It’s none of my business. If you’re happy to make things work with Giselle, then that’s good. Affairs of the heart aren’t my strongest topic due to lack of experience.’ Then Maddy looked at Stan who was grinning. ‘Why didn’t you tell me Ted and Stasia had split?’
‘I thought Ted might have said.’
‘Didn’t take your sister long to move on, did it? Must be in the DNA.’ Maddy noticed his smile slip as he looked pissed off. ‘I’m only saying.’
‘They're adult about it.’
‘I hope she wasn’t leading Ted on when she had someone else on the go. I’d be most cross if that were the case.’ Maddy picked up the teapot and put it to the side as she reached for two cups. Stan got the milk out of the fridge as she poured. ‘I really thought they made a lovely couple.’
‘It might be the perfect time for you to make your move on Ted. You both looked cosy on Sunday afternoon.’ Stan then glared at her. ‘Even some of his pals asked if you two were now together.’
‘Then they are thick as shit, aren’t they?’ Maddy sipped her tea and smiled into her cup. ‘He wants me to cancel Trevi and go away with him. I told him I was going to Rome for my birthday and nothing is going to stop me.’
‘Are you sure you don’t fancy Ted? Even I fancy Ted!’ He then laughed. ‘Everyone fancies Ted.’
‘Well, I don’t and what does it matter anyway? Who knows, we might end up together when we’re in our seventies. I bet he’d still be a randy old goat at that age.’
Stan walked towards the bags then looked at the clothes on the sofa. He turned quizzically then smiled.
‘I have too many clothes, and the mild interest has turned into a little obsession, I admit. I am coming of age soon so need to give some outfits, shoes, and accessories away.’ She cleared her throat. ‘Dora thinks it would be a good idea just to have some spots in my home décor, though I do prefer stripes when it comes to that.’ He raised his eyebrows. ‘And I’m raising money for the hospice too.’
‘Where do you intend to sell these items?’
‘At the local car boot sale this Sunday. Why? Do you want some of them?’
‘Oh no! I think it’s a very good idea. I can’t stand the bloody polka dots and spots. Gave me a headache first thing in the morning.’
‘You should have said,’ Maddy replied, pissed off with his comment. ‘I’d I’ve worn bigger and brighter ones.’
Stan laughed out loud and turned to look at her. She wasn’t quite sure what he was gawping at.
‘As I tried to say, about Friday. It was what you said about, how do I know if it’s right if I don’t give it a try. So, I gave her another try.’ Stan grinned. ‘A really good try.’
She felt instantly sick at the idea he had shagged her and filled her mouth with tea before swallowing hard.
‘Good to know I come in useful. Sorry to hurry you along but as you can see, I’m really busy today.’
‘And when you turned up, was there something else you wanted?’ Stan stepped closer. ‘It looked like you were on the verge of saying something really important.’
‘Who knows what I think?’ she replied, raising her arms in the air and slapping them back down to her sides. ‘Not even me. Drink up!’
‘Then you looked a bit upset when you saw Giselle. I know you’re not a fan.’
‘Jealous of another woman taking Phyllis’s attention. I’m insecure like that.’ She took his half-finished drink out of his hand, nearly spilling it. ‘You go and have a wonderful time with your girlfriend.’ Maddy started to push Stan towards her door. ‘I’m sure the making up sex was out of this world, and you got your rocks worth of delight. I’ll bring Phyllis back on Monday afternoon, so you can spend some time with that woman.’
‘That woman?’ Stan stopped and looked at Maddy. ‘You’re not upset we’re back together, are you?’
‘Why should I be?’
‘You’re acting pretty strange.’
‘Barking Maddy. That’s me all over.’
‘Hey, what about Sunday? Aren’t you coming for lunch?’ Then he held her gently by the arms. ‘Maddy, you have to come to the pub. You always go to the pub on Sunday.’
‘I have the car boot sale, and I don’t know what time it’s going to finish.’ Maddy let out a sigh knowing it started at eight in the morning and would be over by mid-afternoon.
‘When are we going to meet up for dinner? That’s what you were asking on Friday.’ Stan then smiled. ‘Wasn’t it?’
‘You need to concentrate on your girlfriend. We can hook up anytime.’ Maddy watched Phyllis walk back in and wait by the sofa. ‘See, even she wants to spend girl time alone.’
‘Come to lunch on Sunday. I’ll make sure your space is free.’
He turned and walked out as Maddy looked at Phyllis and scowled.
‘Bite Giselle hard next time,’ she whispered, leaning down towards the dog. ‘Just for me!’
‘I am not going to do that!’
Maddy stood with her arms folded as two boys asked her to try on a spotted top she had bought aged eighteen. It was quite skimpy, and she knew they were getting off on it which just made Maddy laugh. ‘Buy it. Don’t buy it.’
‘You put on the dress when that man asked you fifteen minutes ago,’ the chubbier one said who didn’t look more than fourteen. ‘And it is for my sister who is ill.’
&nbs
p; ‘What’s wrong with her?’
‘She’s sick of me!’
Maddy giggled then let out a sigh, glancing at Phyllis who was under an umbrella sitting dutifully by her side. She was dressed in spots too and had a massive red polka dot bow in her hair which complimented her dog collar. At one-point Maddy was going to put some clip-on earrings on the pooch but thought better of it.
She, herself, was wearing a little spotted slip dress. It was at the back of her wardrobe, and the colour scheme was light pink with dark pink spots.
What Maddy hadn’t realised was that she had loads of clothing only worn once and some were even new. When they were piled together, she realised it was a bit too much for the naked eye, but luckily things were selling.
‘Are you going to buy boys or are you just standing there?’ she asked, sipping her lemonade. ‘I need to raise money for the local children’s hospice, St Martha’s, so I’m very busy. There’s a collection tin if you want to donate some pennies. All for a good cause.’ Maddy held up her fundraising credentials. ‘I won’t be popping down the pub with the earnings.’
They flicked a few coins in and walked away towards another stall, giggling to each other. She winked at the tubbier one who went bright red.
It was sunny and bright, so people were flocking in. Maddy had set up in a good area of the field near the food and drink tent. Her logic was that if they had a few beers, they might be keen to spend some money on her things.
Phyllis had eaten her lunch of two sausages and seemed very happy modelling the clothes. She was the real reason people were coming to the stall as they thought she was cute.
‘What have you done to her now?’ she heard, making Maddy jump.
Stan was standing to the side of the car, shaking his head. He was wearing shorts, a rather loud shirt, and a white vest, topped up by battered skate shoes.
Her heart leaped into her mouth on seeing him look at Phyllis then at her. He then looked at her again before walking towards the dog.
Maddy felt hot and touched her face, hoping it didn’t show.
‘Can I help you, sir?’ she asked with a smile. Stan grinned and looked down her dress as she stepped back. ‘That’s a bit full on.’
‘Your dress is rather…’ He frowned. ‘Subtle for spots.’
‘Looking down at my boobs is certainly not subtle.’ Maddy’s eyes darted around.
‘You didn’t let the two little teenagers stop from ogling you.’
‘Is was all about the sale.’ She smiled mischievously mainly to hide her sudden jealous pang. ‘Where’s Mrs. Franks?’
‘My mother isn’t here.’
‘The future Mrs. Franks?’
‘Somewhere and about.’ Stan had a drink in his hand. ‘Why have you dressed her up? She looks ridiculous.’
‘Stanley, she looks lovely, and Phyllis likes it. The problem with you is that you’re all male and can’t see she likes to look like a girl.’
‘As opposed to a woman.’
‘What are you doing here anyway?’ Maddy noticed he touched some of the dresses then glanced at her. ‘I’ve sold lots this morning. I’ve practically not got any clothes now. And the shoes went quickly. I’ve made so much money! They should rename the hospice, St Maddy.’ Then she laughed at the silly idea, but Stan didn’t respond. He stared. ‘What’s wrong?’
‘Something and nothing.’
‘Does it concern me?’
‘Yes and no.’
‘It better not be bad because-.’
‘Maddy? Are you selling these?’ she heard, and the voice made her freeze. ‘These spotted clothes. How hysterical!’
She looked at Stan whose eyes widened when he looked over her shoulder.
‘Madeleine?’ the voice said, and she felt every last ounce of happiness go from her soul.
‘Yes, I am selling these clothes, and there’s nothing funny about it,’ she replied, seeing he looked at her sympathetically. ‘How can I help you, Tara?’
‘Funny bumping into you again.’ The woman was standing all toned and tanned, with her multi blonde colour strands glistening in the light. ‘Small world.’
‘I haven’t moved, so it’s rather funny you’re here,’ she replied, deadpan. ‘I thought you’d gone off to bigger and better things.’ Then Maddy mumbled. ‘And that’s just their wallets.’
‘Oh, I have, but we’ve got a house nearby. I think it’s fun to come home now and again.’
‘Is it? For whom?’
‘Such a witty girl,’ replied Tara with a false smile. ‘Is Ted still around?’
‘Yes.’
‘How is he? Actually, I know how he is. I hear he runs that big lingerie firm. CEO, is that right? We should hook up.’
‘He’s extremely busy.’ Maddy frowned at Tara then folded her arms, eyeing her up and down, unable to hide her sneer. ‘Don’t take this the wrong way, but why are you speaking to me?’
‘Being friendly.’ Tara’s usual snarl returned to her lips. ‘And what are you doing now? Still living at home?’
All Maddy could do was shake her head from side to side as if thoroughly disappointed by the comment. Just as she was about to open her mouth, Tara noticed Stan and gave one hell of a flirtatious smile, which made Maddy’s blood boil.
Phyllis barked at the woman as she had noticed it too.
‘Aren’t you Stan Franks?’ she said, quickly tottering over to him. ‘I thought I recognised you.’
‘Fantastic,’ mumbled Maddy, feeling angry that Tara was in her surrounding space, let alone her eye line.
‘I certainly am. I’m also Maddy’s other half.’
Maddy’s mouth dropped open as did Tara’s.
‘I see. And here I thought that she’d eventually end up with Ted,’ laughed Tara, looking a little relieved at the comment. ‘So, Ted’s still single?’
‘Aren’t you married?’ she asked, getting agitated.
‘Separated.’
‘Why doesn’t that surprise me?’
‘Pardon?’
‘Tara, you never liked me at school and gave me a really hard time.’ Maddy stepped from behind her table and closer to the woman, forgetting how tall she was. ‘It was awful for years because you made me feel like shit.’
‘Oh?’ Tara replied, looking lost on the comment. ‘I really can’t remember.’
‘You can’t remember!’ bellowed Maddy, seeing Stan trying not to laugh. ‘I remember, and you were such a nasty cow to me it left me mentally scarred. Saying I was fat and ugly, not to mention all sorts of lies you made up about me. And now you want to make banal conversation and check out Ted? No way! He’s my best friend, and you can’t go near him!’
‘You’re still so high and mighty, aren’t you? Thinking you’re better than me when you’re not. And as for Ted your so-called best friend, do you want to know what he did behind your back? And that girl he was seeing knew about it.’
‘It’s Pearl and what did he do?’
‘Maddy, we need to go,’ Stan said, quickly jumping between them. ‘Sometimes the past is best left in the past.’
‘Tell me,’ Maddy persisted.
‘We had a fling and then he wanted to cool it off. The day he spotted us together in the park he had ended it with me. I admit, I took it out on you because there was a rumour that he thought you were cute,’ she said, getting upset. ‘You want to talk about mental scars. I told him I thought I was pregnant and then when I found out I wasn’t, we got back together, but he was with Pearl. Why do you think they split up? Then he told me he couldn’t be with me because you would get upset!’
The information left her devastated as well as truly shocked.
Maddy didn’t know what to say and looked at Tara, realising she was telling the truth.
‘You slept with Ted, and then he cheated on Pearl? Ted’s not like that,’ she said, swallowing hard. ‘He’d have told me!’
‘Obviously, he didn’t.’ Tara let out a deep breath. ‘You’re the one that caused the problem betw
een us because he sided with you, only to avoid speaking to me. You stuck up, selfish, spoilt bitch!’
‘At least I’m not an easy-going slut! Who knows how many times you told a guy they made you pregnant? Haven’t you heard of condoms or saying no?’
‘Subtle, Maddy,’ Stan whispered, shaking his head solemnly. ‘Subtle.’
Tara looked at her furiously before she marched off across the grass as Maddy didn’t know what to say.
Suddenly she did.
‘He lied to me. Ted made out he was my friend when he wasn’t all because he was running away from that!’ Maddy looked at Stan before pointing a finger in the woman’s direction. ‘Why do people pretend to like you when they don’t, or they’re using you for something?’ She felt sick and stumbled back on her heels, bracing herself against the table. ‘I’ve been used. And Pearl knew he slept with the slut and never said a thing? I don’t get it.’
‘Let me help you pack up,’ Stan said, grabbing her by the waist and taking her to the car. ‘Sit down for a moment and sip my beer.’
Her head was spinning, and she didn’t know what to think.
One of the people she trusted most in the world hadn’t been honest, and that hurt her more than she could ever say.
And she still wanted petty revenge on Tara.
Like stomping on her head for one.
‘You’re a lying shit!’
Maddy stormed into the pub and pushed Ted over, who fell off the bench and onto the grass. ‘You lied to me!’
‘Madeleine? Are you okay?’ he asked, looking stunned. ‘What’s come over you?’
‘Well, it certainly wasn’t you, but you might have done it over someone else!’
‘Oh Maddy,’ she heard Stan say, and grab her hand. ‘This isn’t the time or place.’
‘When is it?’ Maddy looked angrily at Stan. ‘He needs to know I know.’
‘Know what?’ jumped up Ted up to his feet, putting a hand on Maddy’s shoulder.
She slapped his hand away.
‘Don’t touch me! Don’t ever touch me again!’ Ted looked shocked, and she felt upset when seeing his expression. ‘Please.’ Then Maddy swallowed hard. ‘I trusted you. I did.’ Taking a deep breath, she said it slowly. ‘Tara slut whore. Now does that ring a bell?’