by Karen Clow
During the journey they chatted, mainly about the cottage. By the time they parked at the restaurant he noticed that she seemed less nervous. Billy was intent on being a gentleman, opening the restaurant door for her and even pulling out her chair for her to sit down. A waiter came over with the menus. Billy wanted to order a bottle of wine, but when he asked her which type she would prefer, she just smiled and asked him to choose. It was the same as they browsed the menu for a starter and their main course; she said “I’ll just have the same as you.”
While they waited for their meals she was aware that he kept staring at her, finally more through embarrassment than anything else, she asked him if she looked alright. Instantly he replied, “Sorry babe, I just can’t get over how different you look.” “I’ve never dressed up like this before, does it look terrible?” “You look beautiful babe, it suits you. I just wished you felt a bit more comfortable, I don’t bite you know.” Looking concerned she replied, “I expect you wish now you’d brought the lady who phoned you earlier.” “No I don’t, I can’t think of anyone I’d rather be here with than you. Truth is babe now you look so glamorous I expect you’re thinking what the fuck am I doing with old baldy!” They both laughed. Then she said, “I don’t think that, I’m really glad you asked me, but I’m nervous about going to the club; I’ve never been to a night club.” “Well you’re in luck because I’ve been to loads, I’ll look after you babe, although I should warn you I’m not much at this dancing lark, only when I’m pissed I seem to do ok, so we’ll just have to dance to the slow ones.”
Jess had really enjoyed herself at the restaurant, but when the time came to leave she was feeling a little nervous.
In the car Billy tried to convince her that she would enjoy herself at the club, but as they parked in the reserve bay, she was anything but confident. Justin and Warren were watching them as they got out of the car; Jess felt a little self conscious. Noticing this Billy reassuringly held out his hand and said, “Well this is it babe, come on I’ll introduce you to the doormen. No doubt they’re chomping at the bit to find out about you.” They held hands as they approached the main doors. “Alright Billy,” said Justin. “Yeah good mate, is everything ok lads?” They both nodded. “This is Jess, this is Justin and Warren babe,” said Billy. “Good to meet you Jess, don’t think I’ve seen you here before,” said Warren. Politely she replied, “I’ve never been here before.” Justin joked, “Well you enjoy yourself and make sure he behaves himself, if he gives you any problems just come and find me babe, ok!”
As they entered the club, he was still holding her hand. In some ways it seemed to make her feel important and in truth, despite her fear of having sex with him she liked the feelings she had for him. Ironically he made her slightly nervous, but in a good way, never in her young life had she felt that way about anyone, even when she was at school she had a crush on a couple of boys but never told anyone, her lack of self confidence always led her to believe that they wouldn’t be interested in her. “Shall we do the tour before we find a table and get the drinks,” asked Billy. “Yes, whatever you think, I’m easy.” Squeezing her hand he joked and replied, “Babe the one thing you’re definitely not is easy. I’ve been out with enough girls to know when someone is easy. Actually babe it’s refreshing to be out with a nice girl, believe me they’re far and few between.” Blushing she smiled and said, “I’m sure there are a lot of decent girls who would want to go out with you Billy.” “I doubt that babe, but thanks; anyway I’ve found a decent girl why would I need anyone else?”
After taking her on a guided tour, he found a table away from the dance floor where they could talk.
CHAPTER 5
Back at the house Den and Mary had just turned in for the night, leaving Mickey and Maria watching a late film. It was just before midnight when Mickey’s mobile rang, the ID said Shaun, but to his surprise it was Ann who’d made the call and despite her calmness he could tell from her voice that something wasn’t quite right. “Alright Ann what’s up?” “Oh God Mickey its Shaun, we’re at the hospital!” “What’s happened, is the big man alright?” “He’s in surgery, my boy’s here with me; he’s trying to find out what’s going on.” “Tell us what happened Ann.” “Two blokes came in tonight both the worse for drink. Shaun refused to serve them, ten minutes later all hell broke loose; one of them smashed a glass and caught him in the neck. I’ve never seen so much blood, lucky my boy was there otherwise he would have bled to death! I’ve never been so scared in my life Mickey!” “Do you want us to drive up babe?” “No you’re alright, I know you’ve got those babies to look after, not that I don’t appreciate the offer.” “No problem, keep us informed and if you need us we can be there in an hour.” “Thanks Mickey, I think I just needed to talk to someone while my boy went to speak to the doctor, hang on; he’s heading back this way.” Mickey waited while she spoke to her son. A few moments later she said, “Thank the holy mother he’s going to be alright, they’ve managed to stop the bleeding and hopefully we can see him in a couple of hours.” “That’s great babe, me and Maria will drive up tomorrow, but I’ll ring first just to check its ok. Tell Shaun he’s getting too old for all this fighting lark, you take care babe speak soon goodnight.” “Goodnight Mickey, I’ll speak with you tomorrow.”
The whole time he’d been on the phone Maria had been trying to listen to the conversation. She knew for Ann to call that late and for him to ask if Shaun was ok something had happened. “Mickey what’s going on, has something happened to Shaun?” “Don’t panic babe, he’s going to be ok.” “What do you mean ‘going to be ok’ what’s happened?” “He’s just had surgery, from what Ann said two blokes attacked him, he lost a lot of blood. I’ll call Ann tomorrow; perhaps we can drive up and see him?” Tearfully she replied, “Are you sure he’s ok?” Putting his arm around her he said, “Yes I’m sure, so don’t get upset, come here.” As he pulled her closer to him she burst into tears. “Come on babe, he’s going to be fine. Shall we turn in; we’ve missed half this film anyway.” Nodding her head as she wiped her eyes and said, “Sorry, it’s just that he’s been like a dad to me. I just can’t imagine him not being around.” Mickey hugged her as he replied, “Don’t you think I know that babe, now come on take me to bed, all this cuddling is making me horny. Fifteen minutes later they were in bed and he was making love to her.
Driving back to the house Jess thought about the wonderful evening she’d had. Billy had kept to his word and danced a couple of slow dances with her. By the time they left the club around half one she was feeling very comfortable in his presence. All the way home she thought of them possibly becoming an item, although she’d never been in love she found herself thinking she could really fall for him.
When they pulled up at the house all the lights were off except for the porch. “Looks like everyone’s in bed babe,” said Billy, “Fancy making us a coffee before we call it a night?” Jess smiled and nodded. They tried to enter quietly so as not to wake the others, had the dogs not have started barking they would have succeeded. Just as Jess put the kettle on Mickey appeared, “We thought it was you, did you have a good time Jess, where’s Billy?” “He’s gone to stop the dogs barking, I’m so sorry we woke you, and yes I had a lovely time thanks.” “You didn’t wake us babe, but if you don’t mind I’m going back to bed, say goodnight to Billy for me, see you in the morning.” “Goodnight Mickey, see you in the morning.”
Jess had just taken two coffees through to the lounge, when Billy returned from the conservatory. “The dogs should settle now, did I hear you talking to someone babe?” “Yes Mickey came down, but he’s gone back to bed he said he’ll see you tomorrow.” Sitting down next to her, he gently placed his hand on her knee and said, “So will you let me take you out again then?” Immediately she replied, “Yes, I’d really like that, I’ve had a lovely time.” “Dare I ask for a kiss then?” Blushing profoundly she nodded her head. Putting his cup down, he gently placed his arm around her and leaned towards her, a
s his lips touched hers she felt her stomach flip, she had never imagined that she would want any man to kiss her, especially the way he was. When the kiss finished he looked at her and said, “I’ve been dying to do that all night, actually I think we should do it again, don’t you?” Still in awe as to the way he was making her feel, she just nodded. The second kiss was even more passionate, with Billy putting his tongue in her mouth and despite her always thinking that it was a disgusting practise, especially as her rapist had tried to force his tongue in her mouth, she found herself liking it. To her surprise she found herself reciprocating, as though it was a natural thing to do. It was only when after several minutes of kissing Billy moved his hand up over her top and touched her breast that she pulled away. Instantly he said, “Sorry babe I just got carried away.” Knowing that he hadn’t really done anything wrong, she smiled and replied, “It’s ok it’s not you it’s me, I’m just not ready yet.” Trying to lighten the mood he jokingly replied, “So I haven’t blown it then?” “No of course not, it’s just that I’ve never done that before, I expect all your girlfriends are experienced not boring like me.” “Actually babe it’s nice to meet someone like you who doesn’t only want me for my body!” They both laughed before he added, “If I promise to keep my hands to myself, can I have a kiss before we turn in?” With her heart racing and her stomach fluttering she nodded.
He held her hand as they walked up the stairs and kissed her again outside her bedroom door. “Night babe, sweet dreams, I’ll see you in the morning,” he said as he pecked her on the lips again. “Goodnight Billy and thank you for taking me out, it’s been the best time I’ve ever had.” “Great then we’ll definitely have to repeat it won’t we?” She smiled and nodded as he leaned forward and kissed her again.
Jess lay awake thinking about the wonderful time she’d had and the effect Billy was having on her. The way he’d made her feel special and the way he’d kissed her. Across the landing Billy was masturbating as he thought about her, she was certainly having a good effect on him, so much so that he couldn’t wait till the morning so he could see her again.
The next morning Maria and Mary were up first feeding the triplets when Jess appeared with Becky. Because it was Saturday Maria hadn’t called the twins but she knew it wouldn’t be long before they appeared downstairs. Mary greeted Jess by telling her there was fresh tea in the pot. They’d just started to ask Jess how her date had gone when the twins came downstairs. Finally they managed to speak to her and it was clear to both of them that the date had gone well. “So are you going to go out with him again love,” asked Mary. Looking a bit unsure she replied, “I hope so, but it’s up to him.”
It was three hours later when the men finally came downstairs. “Ah good morning,” said Maria. Everyone including Billy noticed that Jess blushed when he walked in; he knew that they would have questioned her over their date, so boldly he walked across to her and kissed her on the cheek as he said, “Morning babe, did you sleep well?” A strange silence fell over the kitchen as everyone waited for Jess to reply. Clearly in shock that he had kissed her openly, she nervously she replied, “Not too bad, it took me ages to get off.” “Yeah me too babe, I couldn’t stop thinking about the great time we had.” Mary looked over at Maria then grinning, she raised her head and nodded, it was her way of saying ‘oh yes there’s definitely something there.’ Then to everyone’s surprise Madeline said, “Mummy are Billy and Jess getting married?” Quickly their mum replied, “I don’t think so sweetheart, but I think they might be going out together.” Everyone could see Madeline was thinking about what had just been said and then they fell about laughing when she replied, “Will you still take us to Pirates Billy?” Trying to keep a straight face he replied, “Of course princess you’re still my best girls’, but don’t tell Jess because she’ll get jealous.” Looking slightly smug she replied, “I won’t!”
As Maria sorted the men’s’ breakfast, Mickey talked to them about Shaun. Maria suggested calling Ann for an update and stating that they could travel up that day if the others could watch the kids. Without hesitation Mickey made the call, he noticed straight away that she sounded a lot calmer than the previous evening. They chatted for almost ten minutes before he ended the call. His mum was the first to ask, “How is Shaun doing?” “He’s fine mum, today they’re moving him from ICU to a private room. According to Ann all the family are going to visit today, so we’ll leave it till tomorrow or Monday.” “Thank God he’s alright,” said Maria, “As we’re not going today, we can all go over to the cottage to show you what a fantastic job me and Jess have done.” “Sounds good babe, what time?” “Shall we say about an hour, I’ll just clear up first.”
Just over an hour later they were all heading to the cottage. Maria was excited as she opened the door. “Fuck me,” said Mickey, “It’s like a different place, you girls have surpassed yourselves!” Maria was quick to reply, “Yes I know, but we can’t take all the credit, Billy worked really hard as well.” “I can see that babe; I did notice the fence and gate outside, not to mention the garden!” Looking over at Billy he said, “Nice job mate, perhaps if the club business doesn’t work out you can go into the gardening business!” Raising his eyebrows Billy was quick to say, “Thanks all the same Mickey, but it’s too much like fucking hard work, between those two it’s a miracle I survived! They had me digging and moving boulders, I was glad when they said they didn’t need me anymore I was knackered!” Everyone laughed as Maria said, “And you loved every minute of it Billy, you’re Kent’s answer to Alan Titchmarsh” “Alan Titchmarsh! With this physique and my obvious good looks I think you mean Tommy Walsh don’t you!” They were still laughing as they walked through to the kitchen.
Jess suggested that she make a cup of tea and occupied the babies while Maria showed the others the rest of the cottage. Mary noticed as they headed upstairs that Billy hung back. Waiting till the others were out of sight he walked over to Jess and in a friendly manner put his arm around her shoulder. She blushed as he said, “Did you really enjoy last night babe?” “Yes I had a lovely time, did you?” “Too right, so when are we going to do it again?” Before she had time to reply he said, “Fancy a day out next week, only I need to drive up to London to sort out my flat. I need to talk to Kev, he’s been staying there on and off while I’ve been down here. Now I know I’m staying here, I’m going to ask him about renting it, if not I’m probably going to put it on the market.” “What about Becky, I really don’t want to ask Maria to have her again, it’s not fair.” “Well I fully expected her to come with us. I know you’ve got her, she’s not a problem. Tell you what, I’ll even push the pram, how’s that!” With a huge smile on her face she nodded her head and said, “That would be lovely, I’ve never been to London.” Tightening his grip on her shoulder he grinned as he said, “Great, now do I get a kiss?” With her stomach doing butterflies from the anticipation of his kiss, she nodded, but just as they pressed their lips together, a little voice shouted, “Mummy they’re kissing!” It was Madeline who had come back downstairs. Jess quickly pulled away with embarrassment, but Billy laughed and said, “Oh no we’ve been caught red handed Jess! Now everyone knows its official, although if she went to the back door and shouted, I’m pretty sure the people in next village would also know!”
Seconds later the others appeared trying hard to control their laughter as Mickey said, “Yeah trust gobby who needs a loud speaker when we’ve got her! Sorry about that folks, I hope she didn’t embarrass you to much? ” It came as no surprise when Billy replied, “Well I was a bit embarrassed, I did tell Jess she should wait till we’re alone, trouble is she just can’t control herself around me. It’s something that I’ve had trouble with all my life, the women just can’t resist me!” Although Jess looked mortified, even she had to giggle along with the others. They were interrupted by Mickey’s mobile ringing. “Alright Tony, what’s up?” “Sorry to bother you Mick, I would have called you tonight, but I need to run something by you. It’s ab
out the business I’ve got down your way, looks like I’ll be down there again this weekend, which normally wouldn’t be a problem, but Belle has just mentioned to me that she’s planning on driving down next week to visit Maria. Sorry to spring this on you, but if she does I was hoping you could say that I’m helping at the club or something?” Knowing that Maria was listening to his side of the conversation, he tactfully replied, “Yeah sounds ok Tony, but I’ll have to look into it and get back to you.” Tony was no fool, he knew his reply had been said for a reason. Talking in a quieter voice he said, “It’s obviously a bad time to talk Mick, give me a bell later.” “No problem, does the business look promising then?” “Oh yes, it’s definitely promising!” Mickey laughed as he ended the call.
They stayed at the cottage for a couple of hours before driving back to the house. Mickey noticed that Maria was quiet not only on the journey but when they were home. In an effort to please her he waited until they were alone in the kitchen then said, “The cottage looks fantastic babe, wouldn’t mind living there myself. Shall we give Jess the keys tonight or did you want to wait?” Instantly his offer seemed to lift her spirits, when throwing her arms around his neck she replied, “That would be wonderful, I’m sure she’ll be overwhelmed!” “Ok then we’ll do it when all the kids have gone to bed and on the subject of Jess, is it my imagination or does Billy seem keen?” “Definitely, I just hope she can cope with him if he starts coming on to her, I don’t want to see her get hurt.” “She seems ok with it to me, or do you know something I don’t?” Despite not wanting to keep things from him, she couldn’t tell him about the rape. The last thing she wanted to do was betray her friend so she just smiled and replied, “Well I know she’s not used to men like Billy, I think she’s finding it a bit hard to cope with that’s all.” Mickey had known her long enough to know that she was keeping something back from him; he also knew that if that was the case she would have good reason, so he didn’t push the issue.