'Til I Kissed You

by Pam Howes

  ‘One toke, but don’t tell your mother.’

  ‘Well she smokes weed.’

  ‘Only occasionally, and she doesn’t like you kids to know she does.’

  ‘Two tokes for my silence, or it’s no deal,’ she bargained and took the new joint from Roy.

  She took a long drag and inhaled deeply, a blissful expression on her face as Eddie rolled his eyes.

  Tim laughed. ‘Ed, she smokes a joint the same way you do. What a chip off the old Mellor block!’

  ‘Isn’t she,’ Eddie said as Jess grinned.

  ***

  Livvy lay on her bed and stretched her arms above her head. She felt smug, like the cat that drank all the cream. It had been painful, but worth it, and now she’d got him and they could adjust to being a couple before the baby arrived. He’d left the flat like a gleeful schoolboy for his reunion with Eddie and Tim. She felt a bit disappointed they weren’t going shopping after all, but he said he’d take her next week instead and she didn’t want to start off by being too clingy. He loved her; that was the main thing. He’d be back later to collect her to spend the night at the hotel.

  She was looking forward to being officially seen in public on his arm. No more sneaking around. He’d told his mum and dad about the baby and they wanted to meet her tomorrow. She wasn’t looking forward to it, but it would be interesting, to say the least, she thought as she turned on her side, closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

  ***

  Stuart drove into Manchester, a broad smile splitting his face. He was really looking forward to being in Sammy’s company later. He’d worshipped her from afar since his teens and although he’d had many partners over the years, no one had ever quite measured up to Sammy, so he’d made a choice to stay single.

  He parked his car on Chorlton Street car park and strode the few blocks to Flanagan and Grey’s. He ran lightly up the stairs and was greeted by Jon and Sean.

  ‘Give us a hand, Stu,’ Jon called. We’ve been rushed off our feet and we haven’t had a brew for hours. I’ll make the coffees if you’ll help Sean.’

  ‘Sounds like a good deal to me,’ Stuart replied, taking his place behind the counter.

  Five minutes later they took a breather and drank the welcome mugs of coffee.

  ‘I don’t know why they all come in at once,’ Jon grumbled.

  ‘There’s nowt as funny as customers, as John Grey was always fond of saying,’ Stuart grinned. ‘Where’s your young girl today?’

  Sean raised an eyebrow. ‘You might well ask. But we know where she was last night and this morning. She called earlier, told me she couldn’t leave Roy on his own. He was in too much of a state.’

  ‘What’s she doing with Roy?’ Stuart’s eyes widened. ‘I know she’s expecting his baby, but I thought the relationship was over. Sammy said she and Roy were getting back together. So, what’s happened since Thursday night when I last saw Sammy?’

  Jon told him what had gone on that morning.

  ‘Wow! It’s a wonder he’s still around to tell the tale. Sammy called me a short time ago and invited me over tonight. She was with Pat and Jane at Jasmine House. So - I guess Roy won’t be there?’

  ‘Not unless Sammy’s serving him up balls first on a skewer,’ Jon laughed. ‘I’ll call home; see what the latest news is.’

  ‘Go ahead,’ Sean said. ‘I love every minute of this ongoing saga.’

  Jess answered Jon’s call. ‘Hi, Jess. What’s happening? Give us an update. You sound a bit giggly and what’s all that noise?’

  ‘It’s Dad, Tim and Roy having fun. They’re stoned and they’re jamming old Rock ’n’ Roll stuff. Roy’s singing Summertime Blues at the moment.’

  ‘Sounds good. Wish I was there,’ Jon said enviously. ‘So, Roy’s still in one piece? How’s Tim?’

  ‘Roy’s still intact at the mo and Tim’s just great. Hair down to his shoulders, really cool and laid back. They’re having a rare old time. God knows how Dad’s going to drive Tim back to Sammy’s place later to pick up Mum. I think I’ll insist Tim takes a taxi. I don’t want Dad to drive until his head clears. He might have an accident and that thought scares the life out of me.’

  ‘Good idea. You haven’t by any chance been smoking, have you?’

  ‘Just a couple of small tokes,’ she giggled. ‘I haven’t to tell Mum that Roy’s here, so Dad and I did a deal, my silence for a share of their joint.’

  ‘Well, you sound a lot more cheerful anyway,’ Jon said. ‘I’ll see you later. I presume you know we’re babysitting tonight.’

  ‘Yeah, Mum mentioned it. I’m looking forward to that,’ she whispered. ‘See you later. I love you.’

  ‘Yeah, me too,’ Jon whispered back and hung up. He turned to Sean and Stuart who’d just finished serving customers. ‘They’re having a wild old time back there. Jamming all their old stuff and smoking spliffs!’

  ‘Good for them,’ Sean laughed. ‘They must be over the moon to be together again.’

  ‘A lot of water’s gone under the bridge since they last played,’ Stuart said. ‘So, what’s on the cards then? For The Raiders I mean.’

  ‘A reunion, definitely,’ Jon replied. ‘They’re going to reform and go out on tour.’

  ‘And Roy and Sammy, what do you think will happen there?’

  ‘She’s divorcing him,’ Jon replied. ‘That’s what she said earlier. Can’t see her changing her mind again. So if you fancy Sammy, the coast is clear,’ he added with a knowing grin.

  Stuart smiled. ‘How do you know I fancy Sammy?’

  ‘The way you looked at her on Thursday night was a good giveaway,’ Jon said.

  ‘He’s always had a soft spot for Sam, haven’t you, mate?’ Sean said.

  ‘Yeah, but I never stood a chance with Roy hanging around. Sammy was besotted with him from the word go.’

  ‘Well, she’s no longer besotted, Stu, so you’re in with a chance,’ Jon said.

  Stuart nodded. ‘I’m off now. Thought I might see if my old mate Mac still hangs around Tommy Ducks. I want to get Tim a little welcome home gift for tonight.’

  ‘Mac’s always in Tommy Ducks,’ Jon said. ‘Dad and Roy still see him.’

  ‘Great, see you both soon then,’ Stuart called as he left the shop.

  ***

  Stuart stopped to buy three bouquets of pink roses from a street flower vendor, then made his way to Tommy Ducks and spotted Mac immediately.

  ‘Bloody hell, Mac, you don’t change one little bit,’ he said to his old college chum who thumped him on the back and bought him a pint.

  ‘Neither do you,’ Mac replied, dark gypsy eyes twinkling under his thatch of black curls. ‘Still single?’

  ‘For the moment,’ Stuart said, leading the way to a small table. ‘Are you still with the lovely Jackie?’

  ‘Yep, we’ve got four kids now. I don’t know how Jackie puts up with me, but she does.’

  ‘You’ve been together a long time - like Roy and Sammy,’ he said as an afterthought.

  ‘Built to last, you see.’

  ‘Not Roy and Sammy, I’m afraid. They’ve split up. I’m surprised you don’t know.’

  ‘I thought something was going on,’ Mac said. ‘I’ve seen Roy in here with a little blonde piece. Brings her in for lunch occasionally. She’s very young, half his age.’

  ‘She’s also very pregnant,’ Stuart replied offering Mac a cigarette.

  ‘Get away! Bloody hell, Sammy won’t stand for that. Christ, I’ve had flings but if I brought that kind of trouble to the door, Jackie would sling me out, no messing.’

  ‘Sammy has done - slung Roy out, I mean.’

  Mac nodded and looked closely at Stuart. ‘So, now its time for you to make your move.’

  ‘And how do you know I want to make a move?’ Stuart took a long drag on his cigarette and blew a smoke ring above his head.

  ‘Because you’ve always wanted Sammy. You missed your chance in the sixties. Don’t miss out again, mate. Those roses are
a good start.’

  Stuart smiled. ‘They’re for Pat and Jane, too, and I need a little gift for Tim. He and Pat arrived home from Nashville today. Got any?’

  ‘Do bears shit in the woods?’ Mac grinned and slid a small package across the table. ‘On the house, to welcome Tim home. Tell them to reform The Raiders. They’ve no excuse now he’s back.’

  ‘They’re doing just that. Thanks, mate.’ Stuart smiled, and dropped the package in his jacket pocket. He finished his pint, shook Mac by the hand and left the pub, his thoughts tumbling over one another.

  Sammy was free; an opportunity like this came once in a lifetime. He made up his mind that he’d take a chance on getting hurt if she decided to take Roy back. He’d already booked the hotel for the trip to London and planned to tell her later, if the opportunity arose. He made his way back to his car, a happy man, his mind firmly made up.

  ***

  Roy let himself in with the key Livvy had given him. He called her name, but there was no reply. He checked the lounge and then pushed open the bedroom door.

  She was on the bed, her cheeks flushed from sleep and her blonde curls haloed across the pillow. Roy felt his heart contract with love for her. She looked like a vulnerable Goldilocks and must have been so tired to sleep all afternoon. He lay beside her and placed his hand protectively over her stomach, gently caressing.

  He felt tired too; it had been a draining day. The good and noisy time he’d just had with Tim and Ed added to his tiredness. He closed his eyes and snuggled closer. She wriggled and put her arms around him.

  ‘Hello, handsome,’ she muttered.

  ‘Hello, beautiful lady,’ he replied, kissing the tip of her nose.

  She leant up on one elbow and looked at him. ‘Have you been drinking? Your eyes look strange. You shouldn’t have driven if you’ve been drinking, Roy, it’s dangerous.’

  ‘I haven’t touched a drop,’ he replied truthfully. ‘I shared a couple of joints with Ed and Tim, that’s all.’

  ‘I see.’ She pursed her lips.

  ‘Do you have a problem with it?’ he asked, surprised by the look on her face.

  ‘Well, I don’t know. I’ve never considered drugs to be honest.’

  ‘I’ve smoked dope almost all my life. It relaxes me. It’s the only stuff I do these days. Don’t worry about it.’

  ‘Okay.’ She frowned as he kissed her again.

  ‘I’m sorry I wasn’t around to take you shopping, but we’ve got all the time in the world. I’ll take you on Wednesday. You can help me move into my flat Tuesday. I need to buy bedding and towels and stuff like that. Tell you what, why don’t I fly us to Paris? We can buy my stuff, get you some decent clothes and stay over a couple of nights while the dust settles here. The shops out there will knock your socks off.’

  ‘I’ll be working next week,’ she replied.

  ‘Bollocks! Call Sean on Monday and tell him you’re not coming in again.’

  ‘Roy, I can’t do that. I need my job. I can’t afford not to work.’

  He sat up and stared at her. ‘Livvy, are you for real? I’m a fucking millionaire. You don’t need the job. I’ll be looking after you from now on. You call Sean, Monday and tell him you’re leaving. I want no arguments. You need to get some rest before the baby arrives.’

  She lay back on the pillows, staring up at the ceiling, a mutinous expression on her face.

  ‘What is it, what’s wrong with you?’ Roy asked her.

  ‘What if you go back to Sammy and I’ve burnt all my boats?’

  ‘She wouldn’t have me back,’ he replied. ‘There’s no question of it.’

  ‘And that’s the only reason you want me? Because Sammy won’t have you back.’

  ‘No, I want you because I love you. I want to look after you properly, and you’re expecting my kid.’

  ‘I was expecting your kid before all this happened today and you wanted to stay married to Sammy. I’ve always been independent, Roy, running my own life since I was sixteen. I’ve got my flat, my car and my job and I hadn’t planned on giving any of it up.’

  ‘So what exactly are you saying, Olivia? That you don’t want me and I’ve fucked up my marriage for nothing?’ Roy looked at her, a stricken expression on his face.

  ‘No, Roy, I do want you. But we should take it one day at a time. I’m not quite as impulsive as you are, except maybe last night when I needed to see you. I’m not giving up my flat or my job just yet. I’ll stay with you at night, that way I know where you are. If it works out between us then we can move in together after the baby arrives. Once you start to play and tour with the lads again, I’ll need to get used to being alone and I’d rather be under my own roof.’

  He shook his head. She was a stubborn little madam, but she obviously knew her own mind. ‘Okay, if it’s what you want then that’s fine. But it seems a bit daft, keeping two flats going. When you decide you’re ready to move in with me, I’ll buy us a new house. You can choose where you want to live, somewhere spacious for our little family.’ He patted her bump.

  ‘There’s only one in there. We won’t need anywhere too big.’

  ‘There can be another one on the way as soon as that one arrives. One a year if you like.’ He grinned and pulled her close. ‘Smoking dope makes me randy.’

  ‘You don’t need dope to make you randy, mister,’ she giggled, rolling into his arms

  ***

  CHAPTER TWENTY NINE

  Stuart clutched the bouquets of pink roses and rang the doorbell. His stomach was looping, hands sweating. Sammy threw open the door with a welcoming smile and ushered him inside.

  Nerves settling, he smiled back. ‘There’s a bunch for each of you,’ he said as she led him into the lounge. She kissed him lightly on the cheek and he saw Jane and Pat exchange knowing glances.

  ‘Thanks, Stu they’re lovely. I’ll pop them in a bucket for now. Take a seat. Won’t be a mo.’

  He sat on the sofa opposite Pat and Jane. Eddie and Tim were sprawled on the rug in front of the fire and they called out a greeting.

  ‘Now, what would everyone like to drink?’ Sammy said, hurrying back into the lounge.

  ‘G&T for me, please,’ Jane said.

  ‘And me,’ added Pat.

  ‘Any single malt, Sam?’ Eddie asked hopefully.

  ‘I certainly have,’ she said, walking over to the drinks cabinet. ‘There’s a couple of bottles, and seeing as his lordship won’t be drinking it, you can come and help yourself. No doubt Tim will join you.’

  ‘Same for me, Ed,’ Stuart said as Eddie jumped to his feet and proceeded to slosh generous measures into cut glass tumblers. ‘So,’ he asked casually, ‘where’s Roy tonight?’

  ‘Who knows?’ Sammy shrugged. ‘More to the point, who bloody well cares? But I would hazard a guess he’s entertaining his bimbo.’ She handed Jane and Pat their drinks and raised her glass. ‘Cheers everyone. Welcome home to Tim and Pat and good luck to our brand new futures.’ She clinked glasses with Stuart and flopped down on the sofa beside him.

  Stuart turned to Eddie. ‘I’ve heard a rumour you’re reforming The Raiders.’

  ‘Yeah, we’re having a band meeting next week. By the way, you okay for Wednesday, Tim? I spoke to Phil and Carl earlier and they can do that night. I’ll check with Roy, but I’m sure it won’t be a problem.’

  ‘Wednesday’s good for me. Can’t wait to see the others and get cracking.’

  ‘Will you still be writing your own stuff?’ Stuart placed his glass on the coffee table.

  ‘Yeah,’ Eddie nodded. ‘We’ve loads of half finished songs to work on. Enough to put out an album at least, and Tim’s written a few country ditties.’

  ‘Country rock, that is,’ Tim said. ‘Eagles style.’

  ‘Brilliant!’ Stuart said. ‘I’ll look forward to the first single. Good luck, lads, although I’m sure you won’t need it with the reputation The Raiders already have.’

  Sammy leapt to her feet. ‘I’ll check on the pasta.�
��

  ‘I’ll give you a hand.’ Stuart stood up and followed her.

  ‘What’s going on there?’ Tim’s eyes narrowed as the door closed.

  ‘Nothing, yet!’ Jane said.

  ***

  Sammy was standing in front of the sink, her shoulders shaking. Stuart hesitated momentarily and then put his hand on her arm.

  ‘Sammy?’

  She turned to face him, eyes glistening with tears.

  ‘Oh, Sam, come here.’ He took her in his arms and held her close as she sobbed against his shoulder.

  ‘I’m sorry, Stu. Band talk brings back so many memories.’

  ‘That’s okay, I understand.’ He took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped her eyes. How could Roy do this to her? If she was his he’d never hurt her or make her cry.

  She lifted her face and smiled through her tears. ‘Thanks.’

  He pulled her closer; folding his arms protectively around her. Her arms crept around his waist and she leant into him. He lifted her chin with a finger and kissed her lightly on the tip of her nose, waiting for a response.

  When it came, the response was warm and encouraging as she kissed him on the lips.

  ‘Wow! Now that was worth waiting all my life for.’

  ‘Was it?’

  ‘Most definitely.’ Bending to kiss her again, he crushed her to him.

  ‘Oh, oh, I’m sorry.’ Jane’s voice broke them apart.

  ‘It’s alright, Jane,’ Sammy said.

  ‘Ed’s spilt his drink on the coffee table. I need a cloth. I didn’t mean to disturb you.’

  Sammy threw her a J cloth and Jane left the room.

  Stuart pulled her back into his arms. ‘Now, where were we?’

  ‘Like this, I think.’ Sammy smiled and lifted her lips to his.

  ***

  ‘Catch.’ Jane chucked the cloth at her clumsy husband.

  ‘What’s up with you?’ Eddie frowned, wiping up the spillage. ‘You look really smug.’

  ‘Do I?’ she said and winked at Pat.

  ‘Where are Sam and Stuart?’ Tim said. ‘I’m really starving. I thought they’d gone to sort out the pasta.’

  ‘They’re doing just that - and one or two other things besides.’ Jane replied gleefully.