A Fresh Start Part 2 onwards

[Lane Kent]

Coronation Street - A Fresh Start Chapter II
By Paul

Rating (PG)


DISCLAIMER: All rights to the established Coronation Street characters belong to Granada Television and ITV; no infringement is intended by their use in this work of fiction and no profit is made out of their use. This story is written by fans for fans.

Rob Riley, Lynette Barlow, Alma Margaret Baldwin ("Alma #2") & Kelly Wood are the creation of Members of the Barbara Knox group
==========================================================
Date: SUNDAY 7th DECEMBER 2003 continued on

The chanting stopped & a stillness filled the air. The figure in
the centre of the circle raised her head & looked straight ahead, as
if she were in some sort of trance.
'The child lives' she said 'I can feel it growing stronger. We must
concentrate our energies & use the vortex to locate it before it
falls into the hands of the unbelievers".
Then the chanting started again.....

Katy was putting the last of her things into the suitcase when the
door slammed.
'I don't understand' said Martin. 'I thought we were happy here.
Why on earth do you want to move to Sheffield?'
'It's just necessary, for the next stage' she replied mysteriously,
continuing to pack.
Martin grabbed her arm & turned her around to face him. 'What next
stage?'
It's where I need to be' growled Katy 'I need to be there...to
join....'
'Join? Join what?'
Katy looked him directly in the eyes:-' The Buddhist Anarchist
Naturist Gathering' she replied firmly. 'If you loved me, you'd jack
in your job, shave off all your hair, declare your intention
to be a BANGer & join me in Sheffield'
Martin slumped onto the sofa in shock. What on earth could he say
to that?

Fred turned away from the pub & walked back to the car. He'd had
some good times with Eve but she'd hurt & betrayed him more than
anyone, even Maureen - & she'd run off with Bill Webster of all
people. It wasn't the time to approach Eve now, not whilst she was
busy working in a hectic pub. He'd sleep on it & make a decision
about what to do tomorrow.

The buzzer sounded & the red light flashed on the wall. Nurse Goode
ran down the corridor to the special baby unit & threw the door open.
'Get it off me' screamed the doctor trying to shake his hand free
of the baby.
Nurse Goode grabbed both feet & gave a firm yank. No good. She'd
have to try something else.
Thinking for a moment she placed her hand over the child's nose,
blocking off the air supply. A few moments later the child opened her
mouth & the doctor wrenched his hand free.
'I want that beast in a secure unit' he raged 'and make sure you
double pad lock the door or none of us will be safe'

'Tracy been taken to the hospital'
'Are you sure? What's wrong? Is the baby ok?' asked Roy
anxiously. 'This is terrible - it might die'
'I don't know' replied Hayley ' There was some sort of fight with
Karen & Tracy & then an ambulance came....I suppose we should phone.
We need to know how your baby is.'

Nick carried on talking to Candice. He could feel Todd's eyes on
him, but was determined not to make eye contact. How had Sarah
allowed herself to get pregnant by her gay boyfriend. He was gay - Nick
was certain of that. The thing he wasn't certain of was his own
feelings on the subject.

It was time to change tack felt Steve. There was no way that he
wanted to be saddled with a kid at the moment, especially one that
had been conceived with Tracy Barlow! And then there was the question
of whether it was actually his. After all the lying cow has already
tried to pass it off as Roy's. There was nothing for it - he'd have
to lie about the details of their night together to Karen.
Karen was drying her eyes as he walked into the bedroom. 'Are
you....are you leaving me for her'? she snivelled.
'Leaving you babe, after paying all that money to Baldwin so you
could come back? I don't think so'
'But she's having your baby' sniffed Karen. 'It's yours, she said
so'.
'It can't be mine' Steve replied, casting his eyes to the ground
'What do you mean it can't be yours' asked Karen, her eyes
narrowing in an alarmingly suspicious manner.
'Well Tracy, she, er, well she didn't want to do what we do. She
was into...other things' replied Steve.
'What...other things?'
'I'd rather not say'
STEEEEVE' screeched Karen, punching him on the shoulder, 'what
other things?
'Well' said Steve, making an effort to appear embarrassed, 'let's
just say …..

NEXT DAY - Monday 8th December 2003
========

'Tracy's dead' announced Hayley as she brought the milk in 'Norris
just said so. Deirdre told Emily last night'.
'And...the baby'? asked Roy.
'Alive!' replied Hayley, her eyes twinkling. 'We have a baby
daughter'
'Correction' answered Roy 'Deirdre & Ken have a baby granddaughter -
I have no rights at all'
'We'll see about that' said Hayley firmly.

'We are keeping her aren't we Ken?'
'Of course we are' he answered 'she's our Grandchild. I do need to
get down to the Archives to find out who the father is though. I'll
be gone the best part of this morning probably'.
Deirdre bit into her toast. This baby was going to make her feel
needed again.

Todd ate his cereals absentmindedly as Sarah chuntered on about the
baby. How could the scriptwriters do this to him? As if he'd be so
stupid to get her knocked up at this stage in their relationship.

Hayley strode purposefully down the corridor attired in a rather
fetching Matron's uniform. As the baby started crying she quickly
shoved a dummy into her mouth & hurried towards the exit.........

[Lane Kent]

Coronation Street - A Fresh Start

Chapter 3

Rating (U)

Each chapter is written by a different writer but all are Members of tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/barbaraknox

DISCLAIMER: All rights to the established Coronation Street characters belong to Granada Television and ITV; no infringement is intended by their use in this work of fiction and no profit is made out of their use. This story is written by fans for fans.

The Writers, The Producer, Rob Riley, Lynette Barlow, Alma Margaret Baldwin ("Alma #2") & Kelly Wood are the creation of members of the Barbara Knox Yahoo group (see address above) - and completely fictitious characters. As are other characters who don't belong to Granada

We cannot stress enough that all the following events off-screen and on -screen did not happen. This is pure fiction and any similarities to real persons living or deasd is purely coincidence.



It was 7:22pm on Wednesday 10th December 2003 when an unhappy Rob Riley
arrived home to his Manchester flat. He switched on the television in readiness
for that night's episode of Coronation Street. Coronation Street was his favourite TV programme and all the residents were his best friends. He could always rely on them to cheer him up.

It had been a stinker of a week at work for Rob and today had been the worst of all! The worst thing of all for Rob had been a newspaper article about a crisis meeting at Coronation Street. It seemed his favourite programme was in chaos. Rob was still confused as to why the producers had written out Kelly Wood. She was his favourite actress and he just knew if she ever met him she would love him too. He had written hundreds of fan letters to her but so far no reply. How could anyone say Kelly Wood couldn't act the part Tracy Barlow convincingly? How could anyone say all she did was grin? That stupid cow Janet Verrie in his office was always making jibes about Kelly's acting and it did upset Rob so. Kelly did other things, besides the inane grin he would argue back, well sometimes, perhaps, oh may be what ever who cared. Killing off Tracy Barlow had been Coronation Street's biggest ever mistake to date and now if the newspaper was to be believed the production team had other even more drastic plans.

According to the newspaper, a crisis meeting had been held between the nameless writers and Coronation Street's producer about the characters Todd and Sarah. Many of the writing team just couldn't see where these characters were going. They were in a rut and if something wasn't done soon these two characters could be ruined forever. They seemed to be going round in circles. This was a major concern to all but one writer who wasn't named. "Why the concern?" Rob thought. Well according to the newspaper it seemed the opinion was that Sarah had been a strong and popular character. Furthermore she was played by an excellent actress and now her public popularity was in decline as the character had gone from one crisis to another in the last four years. For eg at 12 she has got pregnant, at 13 had her first child, at 14 had trouble with an internet stalker, at 15 gone joyriding and nearly died, at 16 nearly murdered by her stepfather. It seemed they had plans for her daughter to face death at the hands of a mad grandmother and now Sarah's boyfriend was going to be gay after getting her pregnant for a second time. Enough was enough. There were those inside Coronation Street and outside in the street who had decided this was just all going too far and the patience of the public was wearing thin. It was time that Sarah had some happiness.

Rob really couldn't see what the problem was. He knew exactly where Todd
was going and could think of plenty of ideas - if only the producers read the countless letters he sent them regularly. To Rob's mind, the character of Sarah Platt was no Tracy Barlow and was played by a former child star, she'd had her day so it didn't matter what happened to her. Now the actor who played Todd was the future of the programme and what a dish Rob thought as he cursed the newspaper article. "I wish I had been at that meeting," Rob fumed, "I'd of told them what is what." Instead it appeared that the writers were still arguing that a new character should have been brought in as gay and had them explore their sexuality and they should not of used an established character such as Todd who had made a popular pairing with Sarah.

Rob Riley, he thought, you could write for Coronation Street and be a damn good writer too. Sadly for Rob, they kept turning down his applications whenever he wrote to the producers. "Somehow I have to get inside the Coronation Street production studios" he thought.

No one else in Rob's office at work or at Coronation Street head offices shared his view about Todd., for that matter Rob's ideas on anything were scoffed at by his colleagues and ignored by Granada.

Also according to the newspaper, at the big crisis meeting, the subject had turned to who would be the father of Tracy's baby? It was obvious to Rob! It had to be Mike Baldwin's as this would give the writers the chance to bring back the Baldwin/Barlow feud and possibly even a re-pairing up of Deirdre and Mike.

However if the newspaper article was to be believed, the writers had their own plans for the character of Mike. Rob just couldn't believe they were even considering bringing back that "Baldwin Bitch" as the Daily Star had called her some months back. Rob hoped if they were to go down the route of bringing back Linda Baldwin, at the very least the producers would recast. Didn't want that has-been child actress back that's for sure. Rob had written in and suggested that they recast the role and let him supervise the auditions as he'd be bound to find someone suitable to play Linda. Of course Rob's letter was met with stony silence!

Unfortunately, one writer had been quoted as saying if they couldn't bring back the original actress, then Linda wouldn't return. She had been a fine actress who had made her name in Emmerdale and still had a number of fans from those years.

Rob scoffed to himself, "Emmerdale!"
"But she is a former child actor!" He had exclaimed to his work colleagues that day. He really hated child actors with the exception of Jack P. Shepherd who he could just about tolerate and really that was only because there was no escaping the fact Jack had made David Platt a very popular character.

"Well, they'll have to be quick" said Dave from Rob's office, "Emmerdale have offered Tina Malvarn £50,000 to return to them as Tina Dingle for three months as she doesn't want full time work.."

"Well, that's their stupidity isn't it" said Rob.

"Besides, Janet and Dave, this isn't Emmerdale, this is Coronation Street -
the best show ever on earth and as long as I remain as writers it
will remain as such." Rob firmly and finally said.

"You a writer" exclaimed Janet Verrie (Rob's boss). Yes, I send in scripts to them that they use." Rob proudly exclaimed. How come we have never seen you credited on screen said another work colleague Pete Hill.

" I use a pseudonym" said Rob. "It was my idea to bring back Tracy Barlow you know?"

"Yeah right" said Dave Lang. "And what a success that was not"said Janet.

At that moment Rob was momentarily bought out of his thoughts by the music
indicating that Emmerdale was ending and Corrie would soon be on. "What a
waste of 25 minutes that programme is? They should just make Coronation Street
one hour long episodes. Yes, why couldn't it be on 6 times a week. He could think
of plenty to fill 6 hours a week." But Rob also knew he daren't suggest
this as he had already sent them 93 letters this week already.

When Rob had shown some of his scripts to his work mates, they had attacked him for doing all his scripts in blocked capitals. They said the Coronation Street bosses would never read those. This had never been a problem before though, Rob had always written everything that way even at his own work. Why they should create now he didn't understand.

After reading the newspaper again and cutting out all the Coronation Street references and carefully sticking them in his scrapbook. Rob then started on his mail and to his delight he saw a letter that looked awfully like from Coronation Street. "Yes at last", he shrieked, "Kelly Wood has replied." His pleasure quickly turned to disappointment as he saw the letter was on proper Coronation Street note paper and had the producer's name on it. "Oh well perhaps at last they are accepting one of my scripts and I've made it at last." "Stuff you Pete, Dave, Janet and all you other thickos at that office." I'm going to show you all!"

Rob Riley began to read his letter from the Coronation Street producer himself.

Dear Mr. Riley

Thank you for your interesting script. We appreciate hearing from our fans however we are really sorry but we cannot accept any scripts from outside our employed writers…"

Rob could bear to read no more. Enough was enough. It was a cracking script particularly the scene of a drunken Janice Battersby dancing topless on one of the tables at the Rovers." Rob was crest fallen. He just didn't understand why, it had been a corker of a scene if he did say so himself. He hadn't had Janice or any woman drunk for a few months in any of the scripts he had sent in and the real twist here would see Janice proposition Mike Baldwin.

Rob ripped the letter up from the producer without reading any further and began to watch this particular Wednesday night episode of Coronation Street.

--------------

The Coronation Street music begun and up flashed on the screen "written by
David Lock." Rob smiled to himself, David was his hero, his inspiration from which he got all his ideas from. David dserved a Knighthood for all the hard work he had done for Coronation Street first as a mere runner but then he had slowly moved up through the ranks to writer. Yet a part of Rob was still a little angry, he had read on an internet message board at www.csf.com (Coronation Street Forever fan site) that David's episode that week should have been Sunday the 7th's. It was supposed to involve just 3 characters - Deirdre, Ken and Tracy. Oh what a glorious fantastic script it sounded too. But according to the gossip site, at the last minute the producers had tossed the whole lot in the bin, within hours of just about to film. They had decided to hand the task of writing Sunday's episode to some other writer and no doubt what a mess it would be too. Too many characters, too many plots and above all Tracy had been killed off screen.

In Rob's mind the character of Tracy had deserved far more than that. If he had of written the script she would have been fully redeemed and the viewers would understand why it had been essential to change Tracy and turn her nasty. Most of all with the death scene Kelly Wood was sure to win best exit at all those award ceremonies next year. She had been robbed of best newcomer at a recent awards ceremony in Rob's opinion. Now Rob had to face facts that he had lost the battle where Kelly Wood was concerned. Kelly Wood would not get her chance. She had had her contract terminated early and been given her marching orders. According to the website and some newspapers, the bigwigs at the studios weren't convinced Kelly Wood could play a corpse let alone do a convincing death! The fans still remembered how Maxine Peacock flickered her eyelids after Richard Hillman bludgened her to death.

Rob at last turned his attention to the television. He was so pleased to
see that they hadn't completely cut his drunken women scenes as he saw Karen
MacDonald get completely sloshed in the Rovers. Yay! They had been using his scripts after all - he thought!


---------------------------------------------

... Todd and Sarah were kissing and cuddling on the sofa in their bedsit.
"Oh Nick I love you." Said Todd. Sarah pulled away.
"You just called me Nick" she said.
"I didn't, did I?" said Todd.
"I thought you were over all that" said Sarah
"I was, I am" stuttered Todd. "You know you and Beth mean the world to me.
Its you I want to be with Sarah not your..."

There was a knock at the door. Frustrated Sarah went to answer. "Oh hello
Sarah love" said Brenda Ferns barging right in oblivious to the fact this was
not the right moment to come visiting her granddaughter. She was the last
person Sarah wanted to see right then. Okay she meant well and Sarah felt sorry
for her loosing her son Neil, but she now was coming around way too often for
both Sarah and Todd's liking. There were times when they felt she was living
there.

As the drunken scenes of Karen in the Rovers droned on, Shelley whispered to
her mother "call Steve and tell him to come and collect her." Karen caught
someone's eye and started shouting "WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT!" You big bunch of hypocrites. You hated Tracy Barlow while she lived so why you should all care about her now she's dead is beyond me."

"Come on love" Bev tried to get hold of Karen.
"Get off of me you silly cow" shrieked Karen as she stumbled towards the door and
headed for home. Maybe the Urwins wouldn't need Steve after all?

In the back room of the Rovers Fred was looking into a glass of Scotch. He
really couldn't decide what to do about Eve. Did he go back to that bar? He
just couldn't face it right now, the matter would need some more thought.

Over at Weatherfield Quays Mike Baldwin had been looking at the telephone all
night. He had switched off his television having just seen a Police appeal
for the safe return of Lynette Barlow. Everything happening to the Barlows had
made Mike make a decision, he would ring Maggie.

Mike had decided this year he and Adam would spend Christmas at home. It was
only fair after all the Barlows had been through - especially now - that they
should have access to Adam over the holidays. What a splendid idea Mike
thought it would be to have Mark and his new wife come spend Christmas with them.


It would pave the way for the Baldwins to be at last a proper family.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-

"That's It" said Martin. "This has gone on long enough". I've given up my
friends for you and now you want me to sacrifice my family for some whacky
idea of yours." Well that's it Katy we're finished. You go to Sheffield if you
like but don't expect me to come with you."

Before Katy could get a word in Martin was out the door. He hoped when he
returned Katy would be gone.

----------------------------------------------

Emily watched as Deirdre got out of a cab outside the Barlow house. "Oh
Deirdre, how are you doing, I'm so so sorry. Tracy was a lovely girl I'll really
miss her." I know Emily but I really don't have time to talk right now. Just
came to freshen up and have to get back to the hospital to be with Lynette.
"How's the little one doing?" said Emily. "It is touch and go" Deirdre told
her. "She's 10 weeks premature. So assuming she pulls through she will be in
hospital well into the new year."

At that moment a police car pulled up outside the Barlow residences. "Mrs.
Barlow" said PC Plod "Yes," said Deirdre (choosing to ignore the fact the man
had got her name wrong).

"We're very sorry you must come with us, your granddaughter has gone missing
from the hospital."

--------------------------------

Meanwhile over at Weatherfield Quays: "Hello! I'm looking for Maggie" Mike
Baldwin said into the telephone.

(Mike didn't know her surname all he knew is that Maggie had moved to
Felixstowe to marry someone else all those years ago. Now she was in Dublin and it was a Dublin number Mark's friend Craig had given Mike.)

"Speaking, who wants to know" said Maggie. "Oh, uh long time its been, this
is Mike, Mike Baldwin."

MAGGIE: "What the hell do you want Mike. I'm pretty sure we have nothing to
discuss"
MIKE: (sheepishly) Craig gave me your number, I'm looking for Mark. I
believe he's moved and I wanted to invite him and his new wife over for Christmas.
MAGGIE: Listen here Mike, you claim to care for Mark, but if you really care
for him you will stay out of his and his wife's lives. You've done enough
damage to both of them. They are happy now, they are expecting twins any time
and their whole future is a head of them. Stay away!"

With that Maggie threw the phone down. Mike was bemused. No one talked to
him like that. He always was in charge and got his way. And he was going to
be a Granddad too. No one would keep him away from Mark or his future
grandchildren and what did Maggie mean by "You've done enough damage to both of
them." These words run round in Mike's head. Mark hadn't got saddled with Leanne
Battersby had he? Mike wondered. Would explain all the secrecy.

---------------------------

Brenda Ferns happily played with Bethany oblivious to the icy atmosphere
going on around her. Finally Todd said he had to lay down he had a headache.
"Liar" thought Sarah, "how original is that?" Nick's right you are a looser."
Sarah said to herself. Brenda hadn't seemed to mind Todd's departure though. A
distraught Sarah sat on the sofa for a while thinking, she needed to talk to
Nick. So decided to make an escape herself and seek out her brother It was
easy persuading Brenda to mind Beth for a while, after all Beth is all Brenda
really cared about..

As Sarah begun to walk up Coronation Street she saw a taxi drive by. She could
have sworn it was Katy Harris in the back. "Where was she going?" she
thought. It didn't really matter Sarah had too much else to worry about.

Tentatively she knocked on her mother's door. They hadn't spoken more than a
few words to each other in three months. This was going to be hard.

Sarah was relieved as her brother David answered. "Oh hi, is Nick in." At
that moment Gail emerged from the kitchen. "Sarah! come in. No, Beth, how
is she, where is she?" Gail prattled on. Sarah tried to make her excuses not to
come in and explained she was looking for Nick. She needed answers and only
Nick would be able to give them to her.

GAIL: "Why don't you come in for a cup of tea and wait for him, he's over at
Candice's at the moment.
SARAH: "I'd rather not, I really need to speak to him urgently.
GAIL: "David go upstairs and do your homework. (David protested but appeared
to do as he was told)
Sarah you look terrible.
SARAH: (shrieking) Look Mum I don't have time for this right now, I'm
pregnant, my boyfriend's gay and I need to talk to Nick.
GAIL: (condescendingly) Oh Sarah!
DAVID: (from the stairs) good one sis, you always know how to drop them.
(In unison) Sarah and Gail screeched "DAVID!"

Finally "this is no good" said Sarah. With tears rolling down her face she
marched out of the Platt/Hillman house back into the street with her mother
left open-mouthed in her wake.

Sarah carried on down the Street and made her way to Candice, Maria and Fiz's
flat. She was pleased when she got there to discover that Nick was alone.
Fiz was out with Kirk, Maria was heaven knows where and Candice wasn't back
from the salon.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Great Budworth is a picturesque village in the heart of Cheshire. The very
last place you'd expect to find a former resident of Brick Farm Estate - the
roughest estate in Weatherfield and possibly the whole of Greater Manchester.
However that is exactly where one former Brick Farmer had ended up along with
her current husband and eighteen month old daughter from her previous marriage. The phone was ringing in the Redman household.

Mark was in a major panic. He had told his wife not to go shopping. She was
38 weeks pregnant with their twins and had been having a difficult pregnancy
from the start. There's no way she should have been leaving the house.
However Mrs. Redman had a will of her own. She couldn't be couped up and besides she needed shopping from the exclusive "Baby Boutique." in Manchester. "Only the best for our babies" she had told Mark.

Mark couldn't help but think old habits died hard and the real reason his
errant wife had gone out was to try out her new Platinum card.

As the phone continued to ring, Mark was filled with horror, he was sure
something must of happened on the shopping trip. Finally he answered and he was
relieved to hear that after all his worries it was only his mother.

MAGGIE; "I thought I should warn you, Mike's been ringing here looking for
you. Seems your friend Craig has told him you have moved, your married and
passed on my number."

Mark wasn't pleased to hear this for many reasons, but mainly for the
feelings of his wife. It had taken two years but Mark was sure his Dad was finally
out of Mrs. Redman's system. Mark had managed to erase all the hurt, love,
anger and hatred his wife felt for his father. In turn Mark had her now which is
what he had always wanted from that very moment they had made passionate love
at the turn of the millennium. Even so the very prospect of his father making
contact filled him with insecurity as Mark knew he had been second best.

You can imagine therefore Mark's relief to hear from Maggie that she had
given nothing away to her former love - Mark's father.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--

Hayley was in a major panic, as she parked up in a road layby. She had
wrapped baby Lynette in her own red anorak, but the baby still appeared to be blue
and cold. Lynette had been crying but now she was quiet and very still. What
had Hayley done? Hayley couldn't believe it herself. The baby was clearly
not well, it was time to either try and smuggle her back in the hospital or go
straight to the police and confess to the abduction. The decision looked like
it might be forced on her mind you. Looked like up a head the police had set
up a road block.

-----------------------------------------

Mark had had to get off the phone quickly from his mother as his eighteen
month old stepdaughter, Alma Margaret Baldwin, had toddled over to him.

Alma had got hold of Mark and her mother's wedding album. "ook Muk." little
Alma had said in her baby gibberish. Mark had looked and clasped in Alma's
little hand was a wedding picture. Mark still remained in tact, but Alma had
bitten off the head of her mother from the photograph. With big wide eyes Alma
looked sincerely into Mark's eyes, before starting to cackle.

Mark was at a loss. His wife had said that Alma's bad behaviour was the
terrible twos early. Mark wasn't so sure. He didn't understand it. His wife doted
on Alma, but since she had been about a year old, she'd turned on her mother
(Mark's wife). She also seemed to have a problem with Mark's mother Maggie.
However to everyone else she was an angelic angel.

Mark was starting to seriously think that once the twins were born, Alma
should be handed over to her real father. He just didn't know how they were going
to manage.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sarah filled Nick in on all what had happened that evening and particularly
the part of Todd calling her "Nick." Nick didn't know what to suggest.
Sarah's new pregnancy had dug her into yet another hole. Nick really wanted to
sort out Looser Todd once and for all. Nick recounted what happened the night
Todd kissed him. Sarah and Nick's discussion continued with lots of tears shed
by Sarah. Neither of them heard the door open.

It was only by an off chance out of the corner of his eye did Nick see
Candice standing there.

"Candice," Nick said
"How long have you been standing there?" said Sarah meekly.

The Credits Role.

----------

Rob Riley switched off his TV. Very satisfied with himself. "Another
excellent episode David Lock had written and no real plot development and just a few
characters." Thought Rob. "The fans were too stupid to cope with much more than that."Most of all Rob was pleased about the fact the episode contained the stories and scenes he would have liked to write himself. It appeared also that David had forced the Todd story out again after months of pussyfooting around by the other writers. Okay, David had had to bend and include some stories from the previous writer's episode, and also reintroduce Mark and Maggie but skirted round the issue of the has-been child actress. "With any luck she'd refuse to return." Rob thought out loud. Rob also wondered what his hero David really thought about the idea to bring back Linda Baldwin and kill of Tracy Barlow. At least he was able to bring back the story to Todd and Sarah.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Coronation Street

A Fresh Start Chapter IV

By Patsy

12th December (but set on the 13th)

Dev arrived at the shop carrying the post from the flat and dropped
the letters on the counter. "Morning, Dev," Sunita greeted. "And
what a beautiful Saturday morning it is too," he replied as he went
into the back. "Ooh, you gorgeous devil, you," he grinned smugly at
his reflection before rejoining Sunita. He picked up the bundle of
letters. "Rubbish. Rubbish. Ah, bank statement." He hastily
opened it. "Why didn't you sort through them at home?" she
asked. "Because I was in my car ready to drive away when the postie
turned up," he explained. He glanced at the statement and grinned
even more. "That's what I like to see, despite dreadful interest
rates at the moment." Sunita's eye caught something in the pile and
she pulled it out. "Hey, there's one here from India." "India?" Dev
wondered. "Looks like uncle Ravi's writing. But he died last
week." He opened it and as he read the contenets, Sunita noticed he
suddenly didn't look at all well. "Are you all right, Dev?" she
asked. "Not bad news I hope." "What?" he frowned, not paying
attention. "I'm just going into the back for a while and I don't
want to be disturbed." "What if your latest girlfriend rings?"
Sunita said. "Didn't you listen to a word I said?" he
snapped. "I...don't...WANT...to...be...DISTUUUUURBED. Is that
UNDERRRRRSTOOOOOOD?" Sunita nodded lamely and flinched when the back
room door slammed.

Audrey was running late. She'd allowed herself to be whisked back to
the heady days of her wild youth and be dragged round the clubs by
Maria. She felt old suddenly, unable to keep up with the youth of
today, whereas even 10 years ago she'd have given them a run for
their money. The doorbell rang. "Oh, dearie me," she muttered to
herself. "I wonder who that can be?" She went to answer it, hoping
Maria had crawled out of whoever's stinking pit she fetched up in and
was looking after the salon in her absence. She opened the
door. "Mark!" she gasped in surprise. "What a lovely surprise.
Come in, lovey." "Thanks, Audrey," he said as he wiped his
feet. "Does Mike know yer back?" she asked. "Not yet," he told
her. "That's why I'm here really. He's invited me for Christmas but
I want to make sure he's not got an ulterior motive. You know what
dad's like." "Oh, all to well, lovey," she chuckled. "And who's
this, eh?" "This is Alma," Mark replied. "She was born on the first
anniversary of her death." "Awww," Audrey gushed. "I'm sure Alma
would be delighted, lovey. She was always very fond of you." "I
know," he said sadly. "I just wish..." "I know," she assured,
rubbing his back tenderly. "Come in, sit down and I'll make us a
nice cuppa, eh?"

Over at Duckworth's Bookies, which Peter Barlow had signed over to
Jack for a pound to stop bunny boiler Lucy getting a penny of it,
Vera was annoyed with her husband yet again. "But, Jack," she was
saying, though knew she'd get more sense talking to one of the
horses. "If you keep putting the profits on the races, we'll end up
with nothing." "Trust me, my little swampduck," he said
gravelly. "We're on a sure thing here. It doesn't matter how much
profit I bet, we still come out on top at the end of the day." She
rolled her eyes. "I'm late for my shift at Roy's. I'll talk to you
later."

At The Kabin it was very quiet as usual. Barely a customer all
morning and certainly no one wanted a stamp. Dev walked in. "Hello,
Rita." "Dev," she smiled. "Can I help yer?" "I was wondering if I
might have a quiet word with you?" he replied. They both looked
sternly at Norris. "Oh, be by guest," he said. "In private," Dev
insisted as they still glared at the assistant. Dev returned his
gaze to Rita. "Would it be possible to go up to your flat?" Norris
stifled a giggle which made them both angry. "I'm afraid I have't
got one," Rita explained sadly. "It belongs to Steve and Karen now I
think. Either that or they burnt it." She noticed Norris's eager
look out the corner of her eye. "I won't listen," he assured. "I
know yer won't," she said firmly. "I'll go out the back and put the
kettle on," he suggested. "You'll go and get an early dinner," she
ordered. "But it's only half past ten," he protested. "And I'm not
hungry." "Force yerself!" she hissed but he showed no signs of
moving. "Ooh, get out!" she yelled, hitting hit. "You know, Rita.
You've developed a very nasty streak over the past few months," he
told her. "Can yer blame me?" she asked. "The way you carry on,
it's a wonder I've not resorted to murder! Go!" Dev went round the
counter, dragged Norris out then locked the door. "There. Shouldn't
be disturbed now." "I hope this won't take long," she said. "I've
got my profit to think about." "It'll take as long as it takes,
Rita," he replied mysteriously. She sighed heavily. "All right.
What do yer want, Dev?" "I received this letter this morning," he
explained as he pulled it out of his inside jacket pocket and threw
it on the counter in front of her. "How nice," she said totally
bewildered. "I want to know what you have to say about it," he
demanded. "I don't understand where this is leading, Dev," she said,
rubbing her forehead. "You got a letter. So what? It's got nothing
to do with me so I can't see what you want." "Nothing to do with
you?" he scoffed. "That's where you're wrong, Rita. Especially
since it tells me that you are, in fact, my mother." Rita's jaw
dropped and her eyes widened in shock.

End of Part One

Part Two

Rita was still in shock. "I don't believe you," she managed to
say. "You're lying. You're trying to get my money." "What do I
want your money for," he laughed. "I have 7 shops to your paltry
one." "Then this is some sort of trick," she snapped. "Get
out!" "Read the letter if you don't believe me," he told her
confidentally. "Read those lies?" she sneered. "You really think
I'm stupid enough to believe that?" "Since you're so convinced it's
all lies, MOTHER, what's the harm in reading it?" he pointed out much
to her annoyance. He'd backed her into a corner and he knew she knew
he knew it. Reluctantly she picked up the letter and began to read.
Dev noticed tears welling up in her eyes as she did. When she got to
the end, she slowly lowered her hand and looked up at him. "Jack?"
she choked, looking directly at Dev. "Oh, my baby Jack!" She rushed
round to the front of the counter and threw her arms around him
tightly. He pushed her away. "Jack!" she said, stunned at the
rebuff. "I want some answers from you," he said firmly. "I'll
answer anything you want," she assured, her nose running. "Firstly,
did you know who I was all these years I've been in this street?" he
demanded. She shook her head. "I had no idea, Jack. I swear I had
no idea. I thought you were dead. Like Ravi wrote in the letter,
you were snatched from your pram when you were just 2 months old. He
was such a comfort to me during those months. I had absolutely no
idea he was the one who'd snatched you. I'll never forgive him for
that." "How did you and he come to meet?" he asked. "He'd not been
in the country long," she explained. "We just hit it off when I went
to buy some fags. I used to smoke in those days. He told me he had
a girl back in Delhi and they were due to be married and she would
move over here too. But we were in love, Jack. He promised to give
the girl up and marry me. I didn't care what people thought about
us. I wanted to be Mrs Desai. And when we discovered you were on
the way, it made our lives complete. At least, I was stupid enough
to believe everything he said that it had. Then one day I went to
bring you in from the yard and found the pram empty. Ravi and I were
still together then. After a few months he dumped me, saying he was
going to marry the Indian girl after all as because he couldn't cope
with my moods and depressions after you vanished. That was the last
I saw of him until he bought the corner shop. It took a while before
I put two and two together and decided to confront him. He didn't
recognise me. Not surprised really since I've had umpteen shades of
red since then. As soon as I started asking questions about you and
the day you disappeared from my life, he disappeared too. I've had
my suspicions he was involved somehow all these years after some
things his friends told me back then. But could never prove
anything. Oh, Jack. I'm so sorry you had to be put through this. I
always thought Ravi was a wonderful man. But I learnt too late what
a rat he was." Dev handed her a handkerchief. "Wipe your nose," he
said. She took it and smiled. "What's all this Jack business?" he
continued. "That's your name," she sniffed. "One look at you and we
decided you looked like you'd be a right Jack-the-lad when you were
older." "Well, it seems your instincts were right," he noted. "I
still cannot believe Ravi could do that to me," she said in
disbelief. "He used me to get a baby for your parents who were
childless. If he was alive I'd kill him for what he put me through
all those years ago." "I could kill him too for dropping this on my
by letter rather than face to face," Dev added. "What are you going
to do?" she asked. "I don't know yet," he shook his head. "This has
all come as one hell of a shock to both of us. I need to think. So
please, don't say anything to anyone." "I won't, Jack," she
promised. He made his way over to the door and unlocked it. "I'll
be in touch," he said then left. Norris had been waiting outside and
was desperate to get back in to find out what had been going on.
When he entered, he noticed Rita was crying. "Are you all right,
Rita?" he asked genuinely. "What Dev said has obviously upset
you." "Oh, go and put the kettle on and mind yer own flamin'
business!" she yelled.

Roy was getting increasingly impatient. He'd heard about the baby
being snatched and, as Hayley had also not been seen since, his worst
fears were confirmed. She also hadn't rung once to let him know they
were both fine, which didn't help. "About time you got here, Vera,"
he snapped. "Sorry, Roy," she said. "You know what our Jack's like
when it comes to listening to sense. But I'm here now." "Right, so
you can take over," he told her, taking off his pinny. "Where yer
going?" she shrieked. "Upstairs. I'm expecting a very important
phone call," he replied. "I'm sure you can manage. And Sarah will
be along shortly to help you." "But..." She didn't get the chance
to finish before he'd gone. "Typical," she said then scowled.

Over at Audrey's, she had dug out Alma's old things to show
Mark. "May I keep something," he asked. "Of course yer can, lovey,"
she smiled. "Alma would want yer to have summat of hers." Little
Alma was playing with the jewellery which made them both
chuckle. "So," Audrey went on, "where's this wife of yours
today?" "She's busy bashing the Platinum card in London," he
replied. Audrey noticed little Alma pick up her namesake's favourite
silver ring and slip it on her finger. "Good grief," she gasped as
the toddler looked up at her with wide, doe eyes under the shock of
wild, dark hair. "Just like Alma." Little Alma giggled as Audrey
was dumbstruck at the resemblance between the two. "In more ways
that you realise," Mark said.

At the Barlows, Deirdre and Ken were still worried sick. Not only
had they lost Tracy, there was still no sign of baby Lynette which
prevented them partying. There was a heavy knock at the
door. "Could be some news," Ken said as he gave a pained expression
while running his fingers through his fringe. "I'll get it," Deirdre
said then dashed to answer it. "Ray!" "Hello, Deirdre," her errant
ex-husband replied.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Coronation Street

A Fresh Start Chapter V

By Patsy

14th December (Saturday continued)

Deirdre was completely shocked as she stared open-mouthed at her one-
time hubby. Ken wondered what was going on so left his fringe alone
for a while and went to see who was at the door. "Ray!" he cried in
as much shock as his own ex. "What are you doing here?" "Vera
phoned me in Vegas and told me about Tracy," Ray explained. "Vera??"
Ken was aghast. "How did she know where you were when no one else
did?" "We met up there several years ago," Ray replied. "Didn't she
tell you?" Ken and Deirdre shook their heads. "Oh," Ray continued
disappointed. "Anyway, I had to come. Oh, I know I gave up all
right to her when I agreed to let you adopt her, Ken. But she was
still my daughter. I hope you don't mind me just turning up like
this." "You could've phoned yerself," Deirdre finally said. "I
know," he said ashamed. "But after I heard the news, all I could
think of was getting over here. I'm sorry." "Well, I suppose you'd
better come in now you're here," Ken said.

In The Kabin, Rita had been very quiet since Dev's revelation. It
unsettled Norris that she wasn't ordering him about or even shouting
at him when he started gossiping. "Rita? Rita?" "What?" she
snapped. "Do you want to talk about it?" he asked sincerely. "It
might help. A trouble shared and all that." "And have yer telling
the world me business?" she barked. "You must be joking." "I
wouldn't do that," he assured. "Not to you." "Why change the habit
of a lifetime?" she raised an eyebrow. "When I want you to know, yer
will. So stop going on about it! Oh, I'm going to the pub. I need
a drink." She grabbed her bag and shiny mac from the back and swept
past, slamming the door behind her. Norris was getting increasingly
worried about her. After all, it wasn't like her to go drinking so
early.

Back at Audrey's, little Alma's behaviour was beginning to unsettle
her too. She'd not only put her dead friend's favourite silver ring
on the correct finger, but was also hissing and scowling every time
the name Linda was mentioned. "Has she always been like this,"
Audrey asked Mark. He nodded. "It's getting worse as she gets
older." They watched the tot crawl over to Audrey's telly. "You
don't think...?" Audrey suddenly said as a shiver went down her
spine. "Who knows?" Mark shrugged. "Stranger things have
happened." Little Alma went through Audrey's tapes and put one in
the video then pressed play. "Aww," Audrey chuckled. "I wonder what
it is she wants to watch?" She switched the TV on and both of them
were stunned to see it was Alma's farewell tape to her friends.
Little Alma sat in front facing them laughing. Audrey's heart
skipped a few beats when she noticed how this child looked so much
like her old friend on the screen above her. "Alma!" she gasped
before fainting.

In the Rovers, Reet stood at the end of the bar nursing her umpteenth
vodka and tonic. Norris entered and went to her. "Rita?" "What the
hell are you doing here?" she yelled. "What about the shop?" "I've
asked Emily to look after it for a while," he told her. "I'm worried
about you." "Well, you've no need to be," she slurred. "Now clear
off and leave me alone!" At that moment Dev walked in and she looked
round. As soon as he reached the bar and saw her, he turned around
and walked out. Rita burst into tears, her nose dripping onto the
highly polished bar. "I spent hours on that," Harry pointed
out. "Oh, shurrup!" she yelled. "Come on, Rita," Norris said as he
put his arm around her. "Let's get you home." "I'm not going
anywhere with you!" she said firmly as she pushed him off. "All
right, Rita," Shelley said. "That's enough. I don't like having to
throw you out of here since you're me best customer, but I think
you've had enough, don't you?" "No," Rita replied defiantly. "If
you'd been through today what I have, you wouldn't call this anywhere
near enough." "Get her out of here, Norris," Shelley ordered. "I'm
staying put!" Rita declared. "Then I'll have to bar you," Shelley
insisted. Rita slammed the glass down. "I'm not staying where I'm
not wanted." Norris tried to help her out. "I told you to clear
off, Cole!" she shouted. "I'm not going anywhere," he
stated. "You're going back to the shop," she ordered. "Or you might
as well not bother turning up for work tomorrow or any other
day." "You wouldn't sack me just for trying to help you?" she
gasped. "Oh, yes I flamin' well would," she replied. "Are you going
home?" he asked. "No," she pouted. "I'm going for a walk. I need
to think about certain things." She fell out the door and refused
his assistance in getting her back on her feet. He watched
helplessly as she staggered down Rosamund Street and disappeared then
returned to the shop to ask Emily's advice.

Back in the pub, a delivery arrived for Shelley. "What's that?" Bev
asked as her daughter inspected the box. "No idea," Shelley
shrugged. "Who's it from?" Bev went on." "Dunno," Shelley
frowned. "Might say inside." "Well, open it then," Bev
pressed. "All right!" Shelley snapped. She carefully removed the
paper and the lid from the box, dropped it as though it burnt and ran
into the back room.

End of Part 1

Part 2

Bev picked up the box and felt sick as she looked in horror at the
Barbie doll inside with its head broken off and the note sellotaped
to its torso saying, "DIE BIMBO!" . "Ciaran, look after things for a
minute," she ordered then took the box through the back. Shelley was
shaking. Bev placed the box on the table them comforted her
daughter. "Who could do such a terrible thing, mam?" she
sobbed. "Some sicko," Bev replied. "It's probably nothing more than
a cruel joke." "I hope you're right," Shelley said
doubtfully. "I'll put the kettle on and make us a cup of tea," Bev
said then went to the kitchen. Shelley blew her nose and rushed to
her mother when she heard her scream. "What's up?" Bev pointed to
the pan on the stove in silence. Shelley slowly moved closer and
gasped when she saw a blonde wig boiling inside with, "SHELLEY?"
written in marker pen with an arrow pointing down towards the pan on
the cupboard door. "So much for a cruel joke," Shelley noted
fearfully.

Rita wandered around and sobered up slightly. She found herself at
Weatherfield Quays, gritted her teeth and decided it was time to face
Dev whether he wanted to or not. She buzzed the intercom. "Yes?" he
said. "It's Rita," she replied firmly. "We have to talk, Dev. And
if you don't let me in, I'll scream the place down." "Go ahead," he
said and clicked off. Rita started screaming and the door
opened. "All right!" Dev yelled over her. "I never thought you'd
really do it." "Oh, I ALWAYS do what I say, Jack," she gloated. "I
take it we can talk now then?" He stepped aside to let her enter
then led the way. "Right, say what you have to. I'm expecting my
parents any minute." She felt a pang in her heart at the word
parents, knowing how the decades with him growing up had been stolen
from her. "Why did you leave the pub as soon as you saw
me?" "Because I don't feel ready to face you yet," he told
her. "That's why I want to see my parents. I need to get their side
before I can think about what I'm going to do about you." "You make
me sound like a mouldy old sack of spuds," she remarked. The
intercom buzzed. "That'll be them. It's too late for you to go
now. Hide in the bedroom until they've gone and don't come out," he
ordered. "This could be hilarious if it wasn't so serious," she
noted sadly and did as ordered while Dev buzzed his parents up.

Mark was slapping Audrey's face gently to bring her round. There was
no response. "Audrey? Audrey?" he panicked. He felt anxiously for
a pulse and was relieved to find one, albeit very weak. "What have
you done, you evil little monster? If anything happens to her, it'll
be all your fault!" he yelled at little Alma as he got his mobile out
and dialled. "Ambulance. Hurry!" Alma looked innocently up at her
daddy with those doe eyes.

"Glad you could make it," Dev said to his parents. "It's nice we
were asked," his mother replied. "It's been so long since we've seen
you." "This isn't a social visit," Dev said frankly. "I want you to
read this." He held out the letter. "Which one of us?" his father
asked. "Both of you," Dev said. His father gingerly took the letter
and they both read it. They looked ashamed when they reached the
end. "Well?" Dev pressed urgently. "Is it true?" His mother
lowered her head. "I'm afraid it is, Devindra," his father told
him. "Why? How?" Dev demanded. "I have a passport. I used my
birth certificate to get it. Now I find out I'm not called Dev at
all. Is the certificate a forgery?" His mother shook her head
sadly. "It's real. Just not yours." "Then whose?" he yelled. "Our
son," his father revealed. "He was just a few weeks older than you
when he died." "So how did I become yours?" Dev asked. "It was all
Ravi's idea," his father said. "He had had enough of being with that
trollop," his mother interrupted. "It was never serious as far as he
was concerned. His heart belonged to one woman. That trollop took
advantage of a poor Indian man who didn't know his way around. When
she told him she was expecting you, he felt suffocated. He had no
intention of staying. And, the sad loss of our Devindra gave him the
ideal opportunity to leave her." Dev's heart went out to Rita and
could only imagine what was going through her head at these
revelations. "Isn't there a death certificate?" Dev wondered. "No,"
his father replied. "That was Ravi's idea too," his mother
continued. "As our baby died the day before he took you from that
dreadful woman, we just buried his poor little body and you took his
place. No one ever knew the difference as Devindra had never seen a
doctor from the time he was born." "Didn't you even think what you
were putting my real mother through?" he yelled, suddenly realising
how Rita felt at the time. "She was an unfit mother!" his mother
defended. "Nightclub whore. She didn't deserve children." "But she
deserved the torment of having her baby snatched and not knowing
whether he was alive or dead all these years?" he spat angrily. "I
knew you could be cruel from the way you behaved towards Geena. But
I never realised just how low you could stoop." "We had just lost
our own child!" his mother screamed. "That's beside the point!" Dev
screamed back furiously. "A baby's not a toy you can replace when
you lose or break one. It's a human being! You not only stole that
woman's child, but also my birthright for which I shall never forgive
either of you." "So, you would have preferred being brought up by a
chain-smoking, boozing, trollop who no doubt picked up numerous men
while working than us who are respectable people?" "Enough!" Rita
yelled. "Who are you?" his father asked. "I'm the chain-smoking,
boozing trollop," she replied, looking Dev's mother right in the
eye. She went over and slapped her across the face so hard her neck
cracked. "How dare you make judgements on me! Neither of you have
even seen me before today. Was that Ravi's opinion of me,
eh?" "Ravi was an honest man," Dev's father said. "He lied about
Jack being his son!" Rita cried. "He stole my baby! He was a lying
scumbag and death's too good for him!" "All right," Dev said calmly,
putting his arm around Rita to comfort her. "I'd like you both to
leave now." "But, Dev-" his mother pleaded. "And I never want to
see or hear from either of you ever again." "I understand," his
father said sadly. "You won't." Despite her protests, his mother
was dragged out by her husband. "Are you all right?" Dev asked.
Rita wiped her eyes with her finger. "I am now I know the rest of
it." "I'm sorry," he said. "I know how you felt earlier now when
you tried to explain what happened. I must admit, I did have my
doubts. It must have been a terrible time for you." "It was," she
sniffed. "But I've got you back now and that's the main thing. At
least, I HOPE I've got you back now." He beamed. "Of course. Come
here, mum." Her heart leapt on hearing him call her that after all
those years. "Oh, Jack..." she gushed joyously, tears rolling down
her face and they embraced.

Audrey was rushed into Intensive Care still unconscious. Mark was
stunned to learn she'd had a heart attack and knew little Alma was to
blame. It never occured to him that even bringing the child to see
Audrey in the first place might have had something do to with it. As
far as he was concerned, it was all down to that brat and she would
suffer.

In the Rovers it was now lunchtime. Emily was holding the fort and
Norris choked on his orange juice when Dev and Rita entered together
with their arms around each other. "Can I have your attention,
everyone, please," Dev shouted above the thirsty masses. "Rita and I
have an announcement to make." Norris's curiosity was aroused, which
was more than any other part of him ever would be. "You're never
getting married," he said. "Don't be ridiculous," Rita
laughed. "What is it then?" he continued. "All in good time, nosy,"
she replied. "Champagne all round, Ciaran," Dev ordered and waited
for everyone to get a glass. "I would like to make a toast." he
held his glass up and gazed adoringly at Rita. "To Rita. My
wonderful mother." She smiled back as Norris everyone dropped their
glasses in shock. "Well, that went down well," she noted.

At the Barlows, Ken had gone out for a walk. He had welcomed Ray as
much as he possibly could. But the truth was he never could stand
the cocky git. Ray and Deridre were reminiscing over a bottle of
wine on the settee. "Yes, that was very funny," Deirdre
laughed. "They were all sure you were having an affair while I was
stuck in hospital." "They never did find out, did they?" he
wondered. "No," she said. "Then we had that disagreement over the
baby's name." "I remember," he replied. "But you got your way in
the end like you always did. Too much like Blanche you are." "Oh,
don't say that," Deridre shreiked. "I have enough nightmares as it
is." They both laughed then suddenly kissed very passionately,
tearing each others clothes off.

++++++++++++++++++++++

As the credits rolled, "Not a bad episode all told," Rob Riley shouted out loud "Good work as usual, Rob." Rob continued to mutter to himself and then turned his attention to the newspaper and an article that talked about yet another emergency meeting at Coronation Street headquarters. "What now" Rob thought. Rob began to read a statement made by an insider reporting on what the producer had allegedly said at the meeting:-

"We have a real problem here." "For months now we have been steadily losing
viewers. We've axed the Monday doubles which has helped slightly to
bring standards back up."


"How were the Monday doubles a flop." Rob shrieked, by now fuming. "They were the best thing ever. In fact there should be doubles every day of the week."

The article continued :-

"It would seem that even the Tellytubbies are getting more viewers than we are and the adventures in Tellytubby land are more entertaining."

"Rubbish!" Yelled Rob But Rob's anger soon turned to alarm when he continued to read what the producer planned to do about it. The producer had suggested :-

"to redress the balance and get back up on top we need something really
dramatic for over Christmas. . But, there will be no leaks to the press." We must get those viewers watching at all costs and staying with it even if it means involving death, mayhem and destruction!"

Rob pondered this for a minute, then declared " suggestions, I'll give them suggestions, they want PROPER suggestions and only I can give them those. There's nothing for it I'll have to get into the Coronation Street production centre somehow someway. 9 o'clock tomorrow morning Rob Riley you are going to see that producer no matter of what the concequences."

TO BE CONTINUED!

By now you wil have guessed this story is meant to be very tounge in cheek and a send up of an era that was going through a bad patch with Hillman long gone and the current producer Tony Woods had yet to take over and bring Corrie back on top.

In total there are 14 parts written although it was planned out to 25. If you want more just ask. Here are upcoming spoilers

Episode 6

Nick thinks it is time to face Todd with his feelings but will he go through with it? Shelley's nightmare continues. Deirdre is enjoying Ray's return but is not so amused to see Peter. Roy and Hayley play happy families.

Episode 7

Will Deirdre decide to go back to America with Ray? Nick tries to make his peace with Todd and Sarah but in doing so finds his own feelings becoming confused while Mike bonds with Alma #2. Roy and Hayley plan a christening and Kevin is getting sick of Rosie's singing. Gail contemplates confronting Eileen about Todd's sexuality.

Episode 8

The Street bury one of their own but not before Blanche has had her say. Roy comes to a difficult decision. And Shelly wants to know who is stalking her and is Audrey right to be frightened by Alma #2. The Harris' get news of Katy.

[mrsbarlow]

That is a really good fic,although i don't like the part about Deirdre and Ray getting back together though,Ken and Deidre should be together forever

[Lane Kent]

mrsbarlow said:

That is a really good fic,although i don't like the part about Deirdre and Ray getting back together though,Ken and Deidre should be together forever

All I can say is don't despair. I'll add some more now.

[Lane Kent]

A Frest Start

Chapter VI

By Paul

Monday 15th December

Rob woke up with a start. He had been awake until the early hours outlining his plans for the Coronation Street Christmas episodes which he was planning to take in that morning to the Coroantion Street producer. However he had finally fallen asleep in front of his papers and it was now 10am. He had overslept and he really did need to get to work some time today and he really did need to finish his scripts before seeing the producer. "Oh well" he thought, "I'll leave my confrontation with the producer for another day."

-----------------------------

A strange noise pierced the air. Roy's bleary eyes focussed on the alarm clock.
It read 6:30am. Dismissing the noise for a moment he settled back down but then
heard it again. Pulling on his gray dressing gown over his stripy pyjamas he
cautiously opened the bedroom door & peered into the flat. There was Hayley, sat
on the sofa, making a strange coo-ing noise.
As he drew closer Roy saw that Hayley was cradling a baby in her arms.
"Hayley?"
She looked up & smiled at Roy. "I'm so sorry" she said "You must have been
worried"
"Well yes" replied Roy "I was. What happened?"
"That stupid script editor Gary Robbins cut my scenes so the viewers have no
doubt been wondering where I've been. But he's not told me, so I've no idea.
Anyway, I'm here now."
"Yes. And is that.....our.....daughter"?
"It is" said Hayley. "Now all we need to do is decide on her name".


Deirdre tiptoed downstairs, hoping to give Ray a nice early morning surprise
before the rest of the house got up. Her hand lingered on the door handle to the
front room where Ray had slept the previous night. Suddenly she heard a cough
from the living room. Thinking Ray was already up she pushed the door open & put
on her most alluring smile. That dropped as soon as she saw Peter munching on a
slice of toast.
"Morning" she growled at him as she made her way into the kitchen.


Shelley opened the back door of the Rovers ready to enter the yard. Something
hit her on the forehead. It took her a moment to realise that it was a headless
Barbie doll swinging on a piece of cotton. Momentarily she dismissed it as
pathetic until she realised that the clothes the doll was wearing were smeared
in what looked suspiciously like blood.
"Mam!" she screamed.


"I really don't see how we're going to get away with this" mused Roy as he
sloshed the milk over his Rice Crispies. "Someone is bound to realise who the
baby is".
"Not if we do it right" replied Hayley earnestly. "I've thought about this a lot
& I think I have a plan"
"A plan? What sort of a plan"?
"Well" said Hayley "We need to keep the baby out of sight. Then we tell everyone
that we've adopted a little girl. As long as nobody sees her between now & then
they won't think that this is Tracy's baby. I've got some time owing from
Underworld too. I'll phone Mr. Baldwin & tell him I'd like to take it now then I
can stay here all day & look after the baby".
Saying this she smiled at Roy & queried "Ok?"
Roy smiled & nodded his assent.


Nick yawned & ran his fingers through his hair. Thank God Candice hadn't
overheard that conversation he'd had with Sarah. The last thing anyone needed
was any gossip like that flying around the Street. He could just imagine what
Janice Battersby would make of it. His life would be hell at Underworld if that
ever reached her ears. Thankfully it all seemed to be under wraps for now.
Once more he replayed the events of the night in his head. He'd handled things
all wrong, he knew that now. It was time to take the bull by the horns & sort
this out with Todd once & for all.


"Oh Mam!" cried Gail as she barged through the door and went over to Audrey's
bed.Audrey herself was sleeping so she was unable to respond. The floor manager was not pleased. Actresses sleeping on the job. What were things coming to?
Gail sat down & clasped Audrey's hand. "You'll be alright Mam" she murmured
"What you need is to take things easy. That salon is getting too much for you".
At that moment Martin walked in. As usual he was running the hospital
single-handedly.
"How is she Martin?" asked Gail.
Martin consulted the chart, & found his next line:- "As well as can be expected
Gail, but she's still very poorly. We'll be keeping her in for the foreseeable
future for observation purposes".


Bev yanked the hanging Barbie down from the door frame & ushered Shelley into
the back room.
"Keep an eye on her will you Betty?" asked Bev.
"I've got my hotpot to do" grumbled Betty "It doesn't make itself you know"
"Betty" snapped Bev "this is serious"
Betty went in the back room leaving Ciaran and Bev alone.
"I'm really worried Ciaran" confided Bev "somebody's got in it for our Shelley.
What if this escalates to physical violence?"


Nick lingered on the street corner waiting for Sarah to go out to Roy's Rolls.
He watched her leave & walk across to the cafe. Giving her a few minutes to
ensure she was inside he made his way across to the flat door & knocked.
It wasn't long before the door opened. "Can I come in?" asked Nick "There are
things we need to talk about".
They trooped up the stairs & into the flat.
"What...what do you want" asked Todd squirming uncomfortably.
"How could you do it Todd, get Sarah pregnant with everything that's going on?"
"I didn't" replied Todd "I mean, I did, but she got pregnant before...before
what happened....you know....with us"
"And that makes everything all right, does it?"
"It wasn't planned you know".
"What wasn't?" enquired Nick.
"Everything...the pregnancy...and what happened with you. None of it was
planned....it just happened."
Todd slumped down on the sofa as if the weight of current events were taking
their toll
"And what do you intend to do now?" asked Nick "Do you love my sister or are you
going to leave her for the first bloke that comes along?"
"What do you think I am?" cried Todd. "Sarah's carrying my child.....do you
think I'd abandon her for some random guy?"
"I don't know" replied Nick. "What if that random guy was me?"

<End Of Part One>

"What if that random guy was me?" asked Nick
Todd looked at him in complete shock. Was this some sort of test, or a trick? It
couldn't be serious, not after the way Nick had reacted after the 'kiss'. And
now he was seeing that tart Candice, Todd burned with jealousy every time he saw
them together.
"Well," said Nick, "what if it were me?"
"I'm with Sarah" replied Todd firmly "she's having our baby & nothing & nobody
is going to make me jeopardise that".
He watched as a strange expression flickered over Nick's face for a second &
then said again:- "I'm not gay".


Emily pulled herself up from the lotus position & rubbed her right knee. There
was no doubt about it the Satan child was close by. Emily could sense it's
presence growing stronger & clutched her crucifix ever tighter
"O Lord" she intoned "send me a helper that we may track down the Satan child &
prevent the foretold destruction that he will wreak".
The door opened & in walked Norris.
"Tea?" he asked.


"A name is very important" said Roy. "It says something about the person. We
have to ensure that our child has the right name"
Hayley was barely listening, she was far to occupied in washing the baby.
Roy droned on. "Of course it can't be anything that would make her stand out
from..." as Hayley spotted something.
"Roy!" she screamed, "what's this? Have you been writing on her head?"
"I....no, of course not, what are you talking about?" asked Roy, wondering for a
moment, if there was such a thing as Sympathetic Post Natal Distress.
"This" pointed out Hayley, parting the baby's hair & revealing some odd markings
in livid red. "They look like numbers to me" she added, eyeing Roy
in a most suspicious manner.


The coven leader threw back her hood as a breeze sprang up from nowhere. Hair
flying wildly she began to sway in time to the chanting as she attempted to link
her mind with the vortex.
"More energy sisters, concentrate, more energy" she urged as her swaying became
more erratic.Her breathing became shallower as her mind focussed & she commenced
the summoning.
"Lucifer, we beseech you, help us to locate The Child. For the memory of Alan &
Richard lead us to the dwelling place so that we may protect your offspring from
those that would wish to interfere".
The chanting reached a crescendo as she slumped forward. "I see something
red!!!" she cried "the child is close by with something red".


Alma gurgled slightly as Mark sat her on his knee & presented her with a
strawberry.Audrey's eyes flickered open & Mark came slowly into focus.
"How are you feeling Audrey?" he asked.


"What can I get you Roy?" asked Bev, thankful for another customer on this very
slow Monday evening.
"An orange juice please" answered Roy, fishing for the correct change.
"And how are you then?" asked Bev, her mind more on Shelley than anything else.
"Fine, fine. As a matter of fact Hayley & I have been accepted to adopt a
child".
Bev hadn't really been paying attention but the last part of his utterance
caught her attention.
"That's wonderful news Roy. Wonderful, but you need some appropriate to
celebrate. Now what can I get you? On the house, of course."


"I'm home" shouted Sarah as she came through the door. A delicious smell wafted
through the air immediately whetting Sarah's appetite. Todd was stood in the
kitchen cooking something wonderful.
"It'll be ready in 10 minutes" he said.
"I'll just get changed" Sarah said, spotting the red rose & the candles on the
table. Wondering what guilty action had prompted this she pursed her lips & went
into the bedroom.


Mike settled down with a scotch & loosened his tie. It had been a busy day at
Underworld &, if he were honest, things we starting to catch up with him. That's
why he'd needed a deputy. He'd make sure that Nick didn't try any of the same
tricks that Carter had got away with.
The clock ticked as Mike started to nod off. He was brought back to the real
world by the phone buzzing. Wondering who on earth could be there at the time of
the evening he went over to the intercom.
"Hello Dad" came Mark's voice......

---------------------


"Oh Great" screamed Rob Riley. "Mark's made contact with Mike. Only a matter of time no doubt before the Baldwin Bitch returns."

Rob continued to rant on. "I've got a few questions about that episode" said Rob Riley out loud to no one in particular as the Coronation Street end credits played out..
Rob fidgeted in his chair as he continued to talk to himself.
"About Hayley & the baby. Surely the customers in the café would hear the crying & realise that there was a child up there?"

"but then," conceded Rob. "the audience is too dim to realise that. It didn't even dawn on them about Les's tag when he was in bed with Lulu. I guess they can get away with stuff like that."

"Hmmmm" "And what's happened with Reet? A major storyline starts with her & Dev, then she's not even in this episode. What's all that about?" Coronation Street always seemed to be doing this sort of thing these days, starting a story and not finishing it for ages however Rob couldn't blame his precious Coronation Street, it had to be someone's fault, "Suppose the actress didn't want to do it?" He decided. Rob had read in a newspaper or seen on an internet site that the actress who played Rita would get worried about her word average & peanuts." Rob wasn't quite sure what and she didn't like to do more than two consecutive episodes & she would want a rest after doing two episodes, he thought he had read somewhere.

Rob's work colleague Dave Lang had said to this when they talked at work earlier in the day. "Well I'm not surprised at that after the way previous production teams have treated her. Still, the public adore her. There was also a new producer at the helm of Coronation Street who wanted to see more storylines with Reet in the future.

"Yes Dave" had said Rob, his heart sinking.

Judging by the writing of the previous two years Rob had foolishly began to believe that Coronation Street were trying to phase Reet out by giving her rubbish or very little to do." Rob wasn't happy with the latest turn of events. It really wasn't on. And to think that Kelly Wood had been axed too. This new producer really had no idea of how to run a show like Coronation Street.

Coronation Street

A Fresh Start

Chapter VII

Wednesday 17th December

This episode written by Paul.


====================================================================================

Alma gurgled & smiled at Mike as he bounced her on his knee. For the fifth time that morning Mike felt a pang of regret. He'd missed out on moments like with Mark & Adam when they were babies & it was unlikely he'd ever be able to play with a baby of his own like this.He chattered away to her in baby talk whilst Mark was getting dressed in the bedroom. A few minutes later Mark entered & put the kettle on. He smiled at his Dad playing with Alma & poured some cereal into a bowl.

"So....where's this wife of yours then?" asked Mike smiling down at Alma.

"Yorkshire", mumbled Mark through a mouthful of Corn Flakes. "She's deep in negotiation for some work up there. I'm not sure how long she'll be."

"Right," replied Mike, thinking once more what a coincidence it was that his step grandchild was named after the wife he made a major mistake in divorcing.



"Can I come in Sarah?" asked Nick. "Just for a few minutes. I've got work to go to soon." Sarah sighed. "Just so long as you don't have another go at Todd."

They trooped up the stairs & into the flat.

"Well?" she asked as soon as they got inside.

"I've come to make things right," said Nick. "I don't want any more awkwardness between us. Besides, Candice is on my back about making up a foursome."

"And you're not going to go on at me about Todd?" asked Sarah, ruffling Bethany's hair."No, I......." At that moment Todd emerged from the bathroom clad only in a blue towel. He & Nick locked eyes for a moment as Nick half stared at Todd's body, still glistening with droplets of water, & half tried to get back his train of thought.

"I....just want to put all this behind us.....it's your life & I have no right to interfere with your choice of boyfriend."

He watched as Todd went into the bedroom & closed the door behind him.

"Anyway, I better be going. I don't want Mike on the warpath at me for being late."



The car stopped outside number 7 & the unfortunately named Bonnie got out. Local kids had nicknamed her 'Skeletor' due to the fact that her skin seemed stretched so tightly over her skull that the skull was in danger of breaking through at any moment. Bonnie was in some way akin to Hannibal Lectar but her metal mouth of heavy duty braces rendered her a whole lot deadlier. Now here she was to view the property to see if it was suitable for her family.



Kevin sat at the table eating his lunch.

"There are worse thing I could do than......" warbled Rosie.

Kevin chewed on the meat pie, sure that she was off key & wondering why Sally appeared not to notice.

"Again, Rosie, but with more feeling" urged Sally. "Remember that Rizzo thinks her & Kenickie are finished, and that she's pregnant."

"There are worse things I........"

Kevin had decided enough was enough. He was going to nick one of Sally's lines.

"Rhursie, eat your beans." As an afterthought he added:- "you need to keep your strength up."

Any excuse to stop that warbling.



Norris was sat marking up the night papers in readiness for the paper boys & girls to deliver when Fred entered.

"Norris!" he boomed, "Is Rita about, I need a quick word with her, I say a quick word."

"She's at t'wholesalers" replied Norris, "What do you want to see her about?"

Fred ignored the question. "What time will she be back?"

"How should I know?" answered Norris. "When's the next episode? Friday? She might be back by then. It's all down to the writers & her word average I suppose."

He leaned in closer & whispered:- "I have it on good authority that the producer wants to move her to centre stage. Still, that will have a catastrophic effect on her word average so she might dig her heels in."



"How are you feeling today?" asked Mark as he came into Audrey's hospital room .

"Bored," answered Audrey. "You're the first visitor I'd had today. It's Sean's day off & the extras aren't allowed to talk so I've had no conversation at all. Anyway how are you?"

"Not good. I still haven't told Dad about things. I feel guilty about the way things have turned out & now he seems to be bonding with Alma. Perhaps that's for the best though....."



Deirdre & Ray had spent the afternoon reminiscing on the sofa.

"...and then you renovated that second hand pram..." said Deirdre.

"and you went & gave it away," finished Ray as they both laughed.

As the laughter subsidised Ray's face grew serious.

"Deirdre," he said softly, "we've wasted so much time. I want you to come back to America with me after we've buried Tracy on Friday."



<End Of Part One>





<Part Two>



"Oh Ray.... I can't," whispered Deirdre, stroking his hair. "It might work for a while, but then it would fail & end."

"I don't see why. Look at your life Deirdre, you're an attractive woman involved with an old age pensioner. Don't tell me that you've both been faithful to each other."

"No, we haven't" said Deirdre, "I've slept with Mike Baldwin, Phil Jennings & Dev and I've been married to Samir. As for Ken, where do I start? Wendy Crozier, Denise Osborne, Sue Jeffers, Alma..."

"Well then" pressed Ray, "come back with me. You can't pretend there's nothing between us."

"I can't" reiterated Deirdre. "The writers see us as a couple & no matter how many affairs we have Ken & I will always be together. There's no freedom until one of us dies."

"But that's terrible," symapthised Ray.

Deirdre nodded. "I know. And now they're doing it to Sally & Kevin too. I'm just waiting for the day when Les & Janice Battersby get back together, because I'll tell you this:- it's going to happen, one way or another."



"I do think it's rather early," said Hayley as they waited by the church door.

"It pays to plan ahead," said Roy. "I want the most suitable church for our baby to be christened in."

The vicar approached & invited them into the church.

All seemed well until they approached the font. The water frothed & boiled as the vicar looked on in amazement.

Hayley clutched the baby closer to her. "Disgusting, the standard of water hereabouts" she said loftily.

"We shouldn't be exposing our child to pollution like that," agreed Roy, quickly ushering Hayley & their daughter out of the church.



Gail was still pondering on the information that Sarah had let slip about Todd. So, he was gay. Could she use this to her advantage? Would social services say anything if they found out that Bethany was living in the same flat as a gay man? Probably not, thought Gail, they wouldn't bat an eyelid. But Eileen was another matter, there was no telling how she'd react to such a piece of information.......



Shelley eyed the box warily. After the events of the past couple of days she could only conclude that this was another "offering" from her psycho stalker. Steeling her nerves she eased the lid off & peered inside, then screamed loudly & broke down sobbing. There inside the box lay......



"Can I come in?" asked Nick as he stood getting wet in the rain, "We need to talk."

"No way," answered Todd. "You've ignored me for weeks until recently & now you decide that we need to talk. I've got nothing more to say to you."

Nick pressed on anyway.

"Did you tell me the truth the other day, that you wouldn't leave Sarah for another man, even if it was me? You see, I don't think you did."

"Don't you?", snapped Todd. "Well I'm not gay, I'm with Sarah & I'm not leaving her for anyone else."

"Not even me?" asked Nick again as he gazed into Todd's eyes.

"Not even..." but Todd's words were cut short as Nick gently pushed him backwards through the door & kissed him passionately.

Todd pulled away:- "What is this?" he asked, totally confused. "I don't understand."

Nick grabbed Todd's shirt, pulled him towards him, the simply said "I want you" before kissing him again.......



<end credits>

====================================================================================



Well, that's it for episode VII then. It's over to Patsy, Rowan or whoever for episode VII.

So:- Will Bonnie take Curly's house? Will someone else? Will it remain empty?

+ Will Deirdre change her mind & run off with Ray?

+ Will Gail tell Eileen about Todd?

+ What's inside the box?

+ Will Todd & Nick carry on a secret affair or will they come clean to Sarah?

Any these questions are more MAY be answered in episode VIII, to be written by???

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

A Frest Start - Part 8

(17th December)

This episode is written by Patsy

******************************************

It was the day of Tracy's funeral. Deirdre was very upset and Ken looked strained as he watched his ex-wife being comforted by her ex-husband. Could this be the real reason she turned down his marriage proposal, he wondered? Did she harbour secret desires for Ray to return and whisk her away? No good asking so he decided to check the script to find out the truth of what's been going on when he had a few spare minutes from this endless filming and line learning. "What am I going to do?" she sobbed breathlessly on Ray's shoulder. "I've lost my only daughter. My only grandchild's missing and the police are being their usual useless selves. What a fun Christmas everyone's going to have this year." Ray carressed her upper arm which Ken couldn't help noticing and got stirrings. "I know, Deirdre," he soothed. "I wish there was something I could do to make things better for you." "Tracy died a horrible death," Ken butted in to remind them he was still there. "Did she?" Ray asked while Deirdre just bawled louder. "You didn't tell me that, Deirdre." "It's too painful to even think about," she wailed. "What happened?" Ray continued. "Karen McDonald punched Tracy in the stomach two weeks ago," Deirdre explained. "She knew she was pregnant with Steve's baby. She suffered slow internal bleeding for two days before going into labour which lasted nearly 48 hours. I can still hear her screams now and see that grin of hers. Even in so much agony, she couldn't stop grinning and frowning. It just wasn't like her. She never used to do it before the Millennium." "She deserved everything she got for the way she behaved in her new head," a voice said. They all looked up to see Blanche standing in the doorway. "Mum!" Deirdre chided huskily. "How could you say such a thing about your only granddaughter?" "Easy," Blanche replied. "Though not as easy as she was." "Mum!" Deirdre shrieked then returned to Ray's comfy shoulder. "I thought you couldn't make it," Ken said. "I decided this was one event I just couldn't miss. I'll be going back to my sister's straight after the celebrations, don't worry. Hello, Ray." "Blanche," he said flatly not even looking at his former mother-in-law. "How's the stone you've dragged yourself from under." They all just rolled their eyes and sat in silence until the hearse arrived.

Over at Roy's Rolls, Roy was edgy. "I think we should give the baby back," he told Hayley. "We can't do that now, Roy," she shrieked in horror. "Think of the consequences." "And think of what Deirdre and Ken are going through. Ask Rita what it's like to have a child snatched." "What's Rita got to do with anything?" Hayley scoffed. "Oh, that's right. You were away and didn't contact me," he recalled. "Rita found out Dev is her long-lost son who was taken from her when he was two months old. The baby HAS to go back and if you don't do it, Hayley, I will," he warned. "This is no time to start being tough, Roy," she dismissed and took baby Lynette into the bedroom. "I rather think this is the perfect time," he said to himself, since that was always his best sort of conversation.

Bev was getting increasingly worried about her daughter since the groom Ken and bridal Barbie arrived in the box with pins sticking in their eyes. The phone rang. "Yes?" she answered. "Shelley, love. It's for you." Shelley waddled to the phone. "Hello?" Down the phone she heard Aqua singing, "I'm a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world..." and slammed the phone down. "Who were it?" her mother asked. "Wrong number," Shelley lied then returned to the living room.

At the hospital, Audrey was sitting up after her heart attack and making a speedy recovery. "Hello, lovey," she smiled as Gail walked in. "Hiya, mam," she said. "What's up now?" Audrey asked. "And don't say nothing because I can see on your face there's summat up." "It's nothing, mam, really," she lied. "Just got summat on my mind, that's all." "You can always bend yer poor old mum's ear, yer know," Audrey offered. "It's not important," Gail lied again. "So, how are you?" "Fine," Audrey smiled. "Be out of here in a couple of days they say." "Hello, Audrey," Mike said as he entered carrying little Alma. "Keep that child away from me!" Audrey screamed. "Keep her away!" Then she collapsed and was out cold. "Oh dear," Gail noted. "I think she's going batty again." "Yeah," Mike agreed. "The only difference being she was right to be worried about Richard. So, is she right to be worried about little Alma?"

Martin was happily walking down the street when suddenly Tommy Harris came bursting out of his front door and belted him one sending Martin crashing to the ground. "What the hell was that for?" Martin yelled.

End of Part 1

Part 2

"Well?" Martin demanded. "That's for our Katy!" Tommy shouted. "But she's dumped me and gone off to live with her teenybopper mates in Sheffield," Martin countered defensively. "Haven't yer heard?"

Angela asked. "Heard what?" Martin replied, wiping the blood from his nose. "She's dead," Angela told him quietly. Martin was stunned. "Dead? How?" "She had an accident with a hedge trimmer," Tommy spat angrily. "Thought where she went there were no greenery," Martin frowned. "There isn't," Angela replied. "She was cutting her hair at the time and chopped her head off." "I'm really sorry to hear that," Martin told them sincerely. "But I don't see what that's got to do with me." "If you hadn't got yer pervy hands on her, my little girl would be alive and well and still living here. I'll get yer for this, Platt. Even if it takes to my own dying day." Angela grabbed Tommy and pushed him back into the house leaving Martin pondering his future.

"Mum!" Dev greeted Rita cheerfully as she walked into the corner shop and kissed her on the cheek. "All alone?" she raised an eyebrow as she looked around. "Yes. "I've been abandoned," he over dramatised, putting his hand to his chest. "Yer daft, you," she giggled. "Nice to see you inherited my sense of humour." "Anything else of yours I inherited?" he asked." Yes," she grinned proudly. "My love of profit." He laughed. "Well, I've certainly got that. What about Ravi? Anything of him?" Reet felt her heckles rise at the mention of his name which Dev couldn't help but notice. "Only that he was a charmer and a rat." "Well, I'm not that much of a rat," he defended. "I'd never do to anyone what he did to you." "Have you ever been in that situation?" she asked. "Not yet," he shook his head. "Then how do yer know until yer are?" she replied firmly. "I don't," he conceded. "But now I know how much you suffered, I'd like to think I'd never behave the same." "Well, we'll have to see," she said doubtfully. "Since we're on the subject of my father," he began slower than usual. "I wondered how come it took you a while to realise who he was after he bought this shop?" Rita eyed the vodka and tried not to drool at the thought of it. Sod it, she thought, grabbed a bottle, opened it and guzzled. "Mum!" Dev cried in shock. "What?" she eventually asked in innocence once the bottle was empty. "Since we're talking about him I wanted to get rid of the nasty taste in my mouth." "Well, I won't charge you for it," he told her. "I should hope not," she snapped and grabbed another. "Ravi had changed since I first knew him," she said then swigged. "I didn't think much about the name because there's loads of people walking about called the same as others." She took another large swig. "He'd also grown a moustache. But it were while talking to him one day about his early days in the country and a few things set the bells ringing. Now, can we shut up talking about that scumbag? It's making me feel sick." "Sure that's not the vodka?" Dev quipped. "No it is not the vodka!" Rita yelled. "I was only joking," Dev said sheepishly. "Well, that's summat else you've inherited from that bastard - a lousy sense of humour." "Okay, I'll change the subject," he said defeated. "Are you going to Tracy's funeral?" "Too right I am," she smiled. "Love a good funeral me. Gives me a chance to do some acting, sit still and quiet for a long time and boost my pound per word quota. Are you?" "Well, after what happened between us, I thought it best not to," he replied. "Probably for the best. I'll see you later than. I'll meet yer in the Rovers at six," she said then grabbed another bottle and swept out, leaving him to think about the lost profits from 3 bottles of vodka.

Roy checked in on Hayley and baby Lynette and found both were sleeping. He gently picked up the baby and sneaked out of the flat.

Several of the residents were congregated in the Rovers while waiting for the cars to arrive. "How yer doin'?" Les said being annoyingly cheerful. "We're waiting to go to a funeral," Rita pointed out. "They're not gonna bury you at last, are they?" he chuckled.

Reet gave him a steely glare. "I don't think you should talk to Rita like that, Les," Norris remarked. "About time someone did," Les quipped. "Ooh, save yer breath, Norris," Rita said. "You'll need it to clean yer glasses later." "Les, you do know your flies are undone, don't you?" Bev asked. "I hadn't actually," he replied quickly zipping them up. "But I believe in advertising." "He believes in desperation," Rita retorted making the crowd laugh. "I'm not saying here to be insulted!" Les barked. "Why not, when yer expected me to be?" Rita raised an eyebrow. "The cars are here," Emily announced. "Good," Les said looking directly at Rita. "And I hope yer fall down the hole wiv the coffin." "You'll be joining the likes of Tracy Barlow long before I will, Les. And we'll all have a street party bigger than the Millennium one when that happens." "Nowt's bigger than your gut," he remarked, "so you'd have to find somewhere bigger than the street to get you in." "Only your ego, Les," Rita replied. "The Atlantic should be just about big enough to give yer a burial at sea." "Burial at sea?!" he cried. "I can't swim!" "Maybe a LIVE burial would be better than," she winked then followed the others out. "What did she mean by that?" he frowned. "I have no idea, Les," Bev lied, trying to keep a straight face.

Gail decided to go and visit Sarah about the revelation. Halfway there, she stopped, realising Sarah would only accuse of of interfering so went home instead. She heard giggling coming from upstairs and went up. She opened the door to Nick's room. "Nick!

Todd!" she gasped, slammed the door, rushed downstairs and went over to Eileen's. She hammered on the door but got no answer so went round to Street Cars. "Eileen," she panted. "Been running a marathon?" Eileen asked. "In a way," she swallowed trying to catch her breath. "I've just come from my house." "How nice for you," Eileen noted sarcastically. "So, I take it you're not bothered I've just caught your son in bed with mine I take it," she said firmly. "Jason?" Eileen was paying attention now. Gail shook her head. "Todd." "Todd?!" Eileen laughed. "You must have made a mistake, Gail. Not surprising with that fringe covering your eyes. Jason's the one who's gay in my family." "Not any more it would seem," Gail remarked then left her to it.

The funeral was in full swing at Weatherfield Abbey. Deirdre had chosen it to get all of Tracy's dearest friends in but needn't have bothered since there were only her, Ken, Ray, Blanche, Emily, Norris and Rita in attendance. The vicar spouted what Deirdre had told him since now the thorn in her side was dead she'd become a saint.

Blanche got up to speak. "Mother!" Deirdre said through gritted teeth. "What on earth are you doing?" "Earning my appearance fee, so shut up and let me get on with it. I've got a 5-page speech coming up so get the cue cards ready in case I fluff owt." Deirdre just shook her head in part disbelief at her mother's audacity after months away, and part relief she didn't have 5 pages to learn.

Blanche cleared her throat. "So, my granddaughter Tracy is dead. Suffered a lot too, by all accounts. Well, it's the least she deserved after returning with a new head, irritating grin, spoiling all the scenes she was in and the suffering she was made to cause others by those who thought she could carry anything off convincingly. Now she's gone I'll get her old room back when I finally return full time from looking after my sister. No good standing here and telling all seven of us what a wonderful young woman she was when we're all glad she's dead. This might teach certain people a lesson when they decide to chat to the personality transplant fairy that if the new head can't cut it, they shouldn't be here at all. So, due to their arrogance, yes, we have lost a beloved member of the family. And we should all be mourning today the Tracy we have lost. The shorter one who went to London with a big chest rather than the flat-chested, lanky tree who returned. But she wasn't the first and I daresay she won't be the last. There was Susan. She had five heads, 2 of which were the same. But it was the Scottish one who was really the best Susan. Poor Peter, her twin, has had seven so it's no wonder he's ended up as mixed up has he is. Who knows what he'll be like with head number eight. I'm surprised Ken hasn't has a breakdown with all this confusion. His children go away and return completely different. I'm on my guard. Although this is my second and longest head, I'm always aware I may come back different. It's like we're all Worzel Gummidge! Now let's cut the chat and get her in that hole. I need a pee. My incontinence pad won't take much more." Deirdre nearly collapsed with shock at her mother's words though had to agree with them. They followed the coffin into the chill December air and stood around as the vicar continued babbling as it was lowered into the ground. One by one they threw a handful of soil onto it and walked away. "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust," went Blanche in earshot of the others. "May your horses teeth turn to rust. Right, home and me bags the toilet."

Several hours later and they were all ready for bed. Blanche had returned to Morecambe much to the relief of Ken, Ray and especially Deirdre. Deirdre was about to put the lights out when they heard crying from the back yard. Ken went to investigate. "It's Lynette!" he cried joyfully. "Poor thing's freezing out here." "Where did she spring from?" Deirdre asked. "Obviously the one who took her felt guilty and has returned her," Ken replied. "Let's get her warmed up then down to the hospital for a check," Ray suggested. "Good idea," Deirdre said. There was a loud banging on the door. Ken opened it to see a terrified vicar on the other side. "What's the matter?" "Come quickly!" he puffed. "It's the grave of your daughter." "What about it?" Ray asked. "Something strange is happening. Quickly!"

********************************************
TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

If you still want more there is masses. Parts 9, 10, 11, 12a (that is as long as the first 11 parts put together, part 12b (also long), part 13, part 14

After that there are very detailed plans on how it was to continue and end so you will find out what happens to everyone.

Also massess of Barlows.

[mrsbarlow]

Very very funny ,i really loved blanches oration at Tracey's funeral and mentioning about the different heads very clever.I also liked the part about Lynette being the female omen(What with Tracey as a mother who can be surprised at the out come of her offspring)

.Please don't break up the Barlow's(i.e,Ken and Deirdre)its from them that i chose my namesake.Thanks again for another chapter

[RitaLittlewood]

I'm glad you enjoyed Blanche's speech, mrsbarlow. I had a lot of fun writing that. Blanche is so wonderfully catty I just love her.

Not sure when the next part goes up but I can tell you there is more Ken and Deirdre to come.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

mrsbarlow said:

Very very funny ,i really loved blanches oration at Tracey's funeral and mentioning about the different heads very clever.I also liked the part about Lynette being the female omen(What with Tracey as a mother who can be surprised at the out come of her offspring)

.Please don't break up the Barlow's(i.e,Ken and Deirdre)its from them that i chose my namesake.Thanks again for another chapter

When putting them up I did have a laugh reading back Blanche's speech that was cracking stuff by Patsy.

The Barlows feature prominantly to the very end I think?

about Lynette was Paul's idea. The fact she is surviving without hospital care and she's 3 months premature suggests something up, unless being premature was yet another of Tracy's lies.

Then there is horror-tot Alma#2 she could give baby Lynette a run for her money or she could be an innocent.

I'll try and get the next parts up in the next day or two.

[mrsbarlow]

Tanks its a brilliant fanfic.How come there isn't a category for coronation street on Fan Fiction.net?I'm sure a coronation street category would attract a lot of attention

[RitaLittlewood]

No idea.

Lane said I was freaking her out with Alma 2. LOL! When you think about it, we were just doing what those idiot writers do and change character histories (like me giving Reet a son when she can't have kids) and coming up with over the top storylines. Only I think ours is more entertaining.

Patsy

[mrsbarlow]

Yeah i agree,so in a way you are being true to coronation streets writers style of writing.Who knows maybe lynette will wake up a blonde seven year old.

I had to mention that ,because sometimes the casting for kids in soap can be all wrong.,And they usually completley ignore the rules of genetics,

[RitaLittlewood]

They certainly are these days, mrsbarlow. They used to try really hard to get children or parents to match facially. Look at Blanche and Deirdre. None of Gail's new headed kids bear any resemblance to each other.

Patsy

[mrsbarlow]

Yeah i agree,none of sally's old children looked anything like each other.And they were bad choices (sally's first set of kids I'm talking about)because according to the laws of nature it would be impossible for the eldest child to have blonde hair and blues eyes,if only one parent had these qualities.

I may be wrong,but that is what i learned when we were studying genetics in science.

[Lane Kent]

I think you are right mrsbarlow.

I'll try and get more up soon. I'm very busy at the moment.

[mrsbarlow]

Ok,thanks and i can't wait for the next part of your great fic.

[RitaLittlewood]

Neither can I. I've been enjoying reading it all again. I had such great plans for Ken which started to develop in part 13. Oh well.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

Tomorrow (Monday) I promise.

[Lane Kent]

A Fresh Start

Chapter 9

19th December

This episode written by Paul.

====================================================================================

Meeting at Rob's work:-

"I have an idea!" said Rob Riley one day at work
" Bet it was painful!!" whispered Janet Verrie to Jack Stapleton. He smiled.
"DepressEnders have made a major ratings coup by getting Dirty Den back" said Rob, "and with the loss of Tracy Coronation Street need a new villain."

"Coronation Street again" groaned Dave Lang. "Is that all you ever think about Rob"? chimed in Pete Hill.
Rob paused, and looked around the table, seeing a number of people nodding their agreement but Rob decided to carry on unperturbed.
"I think they should bring back Alan Bradley. Just think of the impact that would have....it would open up a whole new chapter in Rita's life."
Pete Hill burst in gales of laughter, then composed himself. "Rob, Alan's dead. Millions saw him get killed by that tram. Fans makes pilgrimages to the spot where it happened for God's sake. You've come out with some stupid ideas before, but this really takes the biscuit."
"I just thought....."Rob began.
Tony Wood cut in. "Actually, Rob isn't completely nuts. I read only yesterday that the Street were going down their archives to see if there's any way they can resurrect Alan."


"Told you " gloated Rob.

"Right, so what's happening tonight then Tony as you seem to know more about it than even Rob" said Jack. "Martin's out of it I'm, afraid. He managed to get through that last episode but that punch has dislocated his jaw & he's been signed off by the doctor. "Is that a major problem?" "Who cares about Martin Platt anyway." Came lots of voices all at once from around the room.


Rob gulped. "Well yes, it is. A major new storyline was just about to start."
Everyone around the table looked at each other. There were several exclamations of surprise. "What possibly more could they do with Martin?" said Janet.
"What new storyline?" asked Tony "I wasn't aware of anything".
"Martin & Tommy were about to declare their love for each other and I came up with the idea and sent it in to the producers" Rob proudly said.
All hell broke loose on the table. It took Tony a few minutes to calm the outraged work team down. "What do you mean Martin & Tommy were going to declare their love for each other?" Said Tony. "It will be good", continued Rob, "we were going to have a love square with Katy, Martin, Tommy & Angela, but once Katy was killed off the plan was changed to a triangle.

"You are nuts, you know that Rob" said Dave. "Leave him alone" said Tony, about to drop his bombshell, "besides I heard they are about to write the Harrises out altogether…" "So leave him to fantasise." The office erupted into laughter at the expense of poor Rob.

====================================================================================

<Part One>:-

"Something strange is happening. Quickly!"
Ray immediately took charge. "Deirdre, we need to get to the cemetery to see what's happening with the grave. Ken, why don't you take the baby down to Weatherfield General & get her checked over?"
Ken could only watch glumly as Deirdre & Ray rushed off to Streetcars to grab a cab.
Arriving at the cemetery the vicar dashed into a workhut & grabbed a couple of torches. The trio made their way to the fresh grave & shone the torches on the ground.
"There" said Deirdre "The ground moved".
Ray came & peered at the ground. "I don't see anything. You're imagining things"
Deirdre squinted through her glasses & fixed her eyes firmly on the ground. "Perhaps you're right, maybe it was just my eyes playing tricks. There's certainly nothing there now."
"But there was" proclaimed the vicar, "the ground was moving earlier. It was most odd. This is hallowed ground, perhaps it's rejecting her as unclean".
"Rubbish", snorted Ray. "It was just the ground settling. Come on Deirdre, we should be getting to bed".
From the trees three hooded figures watched them depart, then emerged to stand over the grave.
"I don't know why we can't raise her now" one grumbled.
"You know the rules" the leader said softly. "She has to be at rest for at least one cycle of the moon. Let's finish this decaying incantation & get home. It's turned nippy all of a sudden".

Two Days Later:-

Todd stood behind Candice & smiled goofily at Nick as she rambled on about going out.
"It's got a really good write-up in the paper Nick. You get proper celebrities going in there. The best vegetarian restaurant in town it said. Can we gotonight, please...please?" she smiled at him.
"I don't think that's Nick's thing Candice" said Todd.
She turned round to face him.
"And what would you know?" she asked glaring at him.
"I just don't think Nick would want to go anywhere he can't get his hand on meat & two veg," answered Todd as Nick looked on in horror behind Candice's back.


"How could you Roy?" asked Hayley. "After everything we've been through. And what are we going to do now, after we've told everyone that we're getting a baby? I still can't believe you went behind my back & returned her to the Barlows. Don't I have a right to say what happens? I thought we were a partnership, a team, and now you go off doing things on your own whilst I'm asleep."
"Hayley, it was the right thing to do", answered Roy. "She wasn't ours to keep. Not legally".
Hayley tutted in exasperation. "Not legally? You were happy enough to marry me without thinking about the legality of it all. Don't you hide behind the law on this one Roy".
"I'm not" replied Roy. "It was the right thing to do".
"Well," said Hayley, "in that case we'll just have to tell everyone the adoption's off, won't we?"
"Yes, I....I suppose we will. What excuse shall we use?"
"How should I know?" said Hayley. "We'll just have to tell them that we've changed our minds won't we. As if folk don't think we're dithery enough already".


Eileen sat on the switch filing her nails. She still couldn't believe that Todd was gay. Gail must be mistaken. It was obvious to everyone (even the audience) that if anyone was going to be gay it would be Jason. Fit body, nice looking, no girlfriend since God knows when....it had to be him.
"Still" murmured Eileen to herself, "maybe it was another stupid script idea that might amount to nothing. Pausing to take a call, she returned to her train of thought once she'd dealt with the customer. What she really needed to do was get access to the Archives, but that was reserved for long-term members of the cast. Now who could she trust with such a sensitive mission?


"You should have married him Audrey", said Alma's voice quietly.
Audrey snapped out of her daydream & back to reality. Was she really losing her marbles this time? Alma was dead - wasn't she? Maybe this was her ghost come back!!!
"You should have married Archie", said Alma, more insistent this time.
Audrey looked around again & spotted the tot playing in the corner. Surely Alma's voice couldn't be coming from her? And where was Mark? What was he thinking, leaving a small child alone in a hospital room?
"You let him go" said Alma. "He was yours & you let him go".
"It wasn't my fault", sniffed Audrey, "I'd have married him but the scriptwriters had other idea. They said he couldn't do his Huddlines & Corrie so they wrote him out".
Alma was quiet for a few moments. "I didn't know that".
"Well", replied Audrey, "if you weren't so busy with Bad Girls & kept up with what's going on you'd know. It's not even as if you have to spend time watching the programme anyway. You can find out everything from the spoilers these days."


"What can I get you Ken" asked Shelley.
"Just a hotpot please"
"Coming up" answered Shelley.
She walked out of the bar, through the back & into the kitchen.
Her eyes flickered to the floor as she spotted a large puddle of blood.
"Mam!" she screamed........

<end of Part One>


<Part Two>:-

Bev came running into the kitchen.
"Shelley love. What's the......"
Fred bustled in as well. "What on earth..."
"B- b- -b blood" said Shelley, going as white as a sheet.
"Of course there's blood" boomed Fred. "Making Dracula pies is a messy business, I say, a messy business. And Betty was meant to be cleaning that up. Where is that woman? I'll not stand for my kitchen being left in this state, I say, I'll not stand for it".
Bev helped Shelley into the living room & eased her onto the sofa.
"Brandy?"
Shelley was unable to do anything but nod.


Sometime later Audrey was awoken by Mark.
"How are you today"? he asked. "The doctors say that you'll be able to go home soon".
"Fine, I feel much better" Audrey replied as she eyed Alma suspiciously. Had that incident with the tot really happened or had it all been a dream?


Eileen rubbed the chamois over her windows. She'd seen movement in Number 7 & that could only mean that some other people were viewing it. She wondered what they would be like. A young couple perhaps, nice like Curly & Emma or someone her own age that she could have a natter with. Maybe it would be someone in the building trade that could give Jason a job.
The door opened and a fiftyish man wearing grey trousers, a blue shirt, a brown jacket & glasses stepped out. He looked over the front of the house, glanced in Eileen's direction & smiled at her.
"Clarence", he said shaking her hand. "Just looking over the house".
"Eileen" said Eileen, "Nice to meet you".
A woman emerged & came over to them.
"Ah Clarice, this is Eileen. I was just telling her that we were looking over the house".
Vera gave her the once over taking in the grey skirt, blue blouse, brown jacket & the horn-rimmed spectacles.
"It's a nice house" she said "Owned by the local councillor & his wife. She's a police inspector."
"I'm just not sure about this one" said Clarice, indicating number 7, "it's a bit of an eyesore."
At that moment Vera emerged onto her doorstep & caught the comment about her beloved abode.
"Eyesore!" she said "I'll give you eyesore. And what about you, Mr & Mrs. Matching, lowering the tone with your comments? Sling yer hook".
And with that the door was slammed & she was gone.


What was that strange noise? Norris closed the door quietly & stood very still. He listened intently & managed to make out the notes of the music coming through the door. It all sounded very odd. Not church music & certainly not any of this rubbish from nowadays that the press called pop music.
Easing the door open he peered into the front room to see Emily flailing around in time with the tempo of the music.
"Emily?"
She stopped in shock. "Ah, Norris...would you like some tea?" she asked, moving over to the record player & switching the record off.
He watched as she put her shoes back on.
"Yes, that would be very nice".
As soon as Emily had left the room he scooted over to the record player & peered at the label:- Hungarian Folk Classics volume 1.
Norris rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Emily had mentioned something about the antichrist a couple of days before & now here she was dancing to strange music - her who didn't even get up at tea dances. Norris began to wonder whether she was starting to lose her marbles........


"We can't tell her Todd. She's my sister", said Nick pulling Todd in close for a cuddle.
"I just thought that things would be better out in the open. Sarah & Candice will be able to get on with their lives & we can be together".
"Sarah will be devastated" replied Nick. "Especially if I caused all that fuss about you. I suppose I just panicked".
"Me too," said Todd "I've never felt this way about anyone before & I thought I'd ruined things between us".
"Come here" smiled Nick, pulling in Todd for a kiss.
"Nick....?" asked David, stood in the doorway with a look of pure shock on his face........

TO BE CONTINUED!