Fall of the House of Baldwin (all 17 parts up)

[Lane Kent]

The Fall of the House of Baldwin

Based on an idea by Lane Kent. Written by Patsy and Lane

PART ONE


17th April 2006

The rain pelted down on a church yard near Weatherfield Quays. The Barlow and Baldwin families stood huddled round an open grave. Once locked in open warfare, they now stood united in grief as they paid their final respects to Michael Vernon Baldwin. Joining them at the graveside were a few friends and foes Mike had made over the years including Penny King, Rita Sullivan, Audrey Roberts, Bet Gilroy, the Duckworth’s, the Battersbys and not forgetting the Croppers. Roy had been an unlikely choice, but he had done the eulogy when no one else came forward to offer, just as years before he had stood in as Best Man for Mike at his ill-fated marriage to Linda.

Penny King wailed.

LEANNE: Oh can't you put a sock in it

ADAM: Show some respect, today of all days will you

Penny wailed some more

DANNY: Well look on the bright side Pen, at least he isn't suffering anymore and as to you kid brother, you count your blessings at all the money we have saved in not having to pay years worth of medical bills by his timely demise.

Adam went to strike Danny "Why you ba..." but Jamie stepped in to stop a fight before it got started.

DANNY: Thanks son

JAMIE: I didn't do it for you. I'd hit you myself but you and that little slut of yours are not worth it.

CAROL: I'm actually surprised you are still with her Danny. Isn't it time you traded her in for Tart 50,000?

DANNY: And remind me exactly why you are here Carol love? You are not family or a friend.

CAROL: I'm here for Jamie ain't I?

LEANNE: Yeah right

CAROL: He was my father-in-law!

FRANKIE: Come on Carol leave it

CAROL: (turning to Frankie) You are right Tart One, I don't want to miss out on all that booze standing here arguing with them.

Frankie rolled her eyes and pushed Carol towards the way out.

The Baldwins all continued to argue and it looked like it was going to turn into a brawl until Ken stepped in and suggested they all make for Mike's flat for the wake.

Rita Sullivan stood back from the rest. Tears welled in Reet's eyes and she gently shook her head as she watched the mourners all troop out muttering to themselves "wonder what he has left us" or "will there be anything worth nabbing or did the forgetful git lose all his prize possessions..."

"I'm just appalled Mark didn't bother to come to his own father's funeral" said Adam. "What! Why did we want him here, one more to sponge off the inheritance" squealed Danny.

"Oh Mark, you are best off out of all that mob love." Rita thought to herself.

Rita stood by the grave for a while waiting for every last person to leave. Deirdre Barlow had been one of the last. Clearly saddened by her former lover's death. But there seemed to be other weeping women there too who Rita assumed had all been lovers of the rascal. She wished they would all go and just leave her in peace for a moment. She didn't know any of the women's names and she sensed that the family had felt threatened by their presence. After what seemed like an eternity all had gone, leaving Rita alone with her private thoughts and regrets about her dearly departed friend.

"Oh Mike" she sighed out loud. "Your so called lovin’ family."

In all the commotion at the graveside, no one had noticed a veiled, darkly dressed figure get out of a limousine and walk into the church grounds. Quietly standing back out of the way, the figure watched every last person leave. When it was just Rita left, they studied her every gesture, her every movement.

Finally Rita got up and made her way out of the church yard. She didn't notice the figure surveying her until it was too late. An outstretched arm came out and grabbed Rita's right elbow as she was just getting to the exit. Rita nearly jumped out of her skin.

RITA: Oh my. Who is it, let go of me.

The figure lifted the veil to reveal her face

RITA: Oh my Gawd, it's you, you gave me the fright of my life. What are YOU, of all people doing here.

STRANGER: Hello Reet. Been a long time.

RITA: Thought you said you'd never set foot in Weatherfield again after...

STRANGER: (interrupting) I've got more right to be 'ere than you ever did (she snarled)

Rita looked down shame-faced, knowing that to be true

STRANGER: You think I'd really miss out on this? Had to come and see for myself if the mighty Mike Baldwin was really dead didn't I?

RITA: Well I suppose.

STRANGER: (Interrupting) Besides after seeing that rabble leave, I thought you would be pleased to see me. (she pouted) Seeing as I’m the only one who knows the whole truth about Mike Baldwin and we can't let those bastards get the lot can we?

The stranger curled her lip and did a sly snarl while Rita's thoughts were working overtime.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 2

Mike's flat was crammed packed with his few friends, many enemies, countless ex-lovers, various onlookers and his not so loving family. Barely anyone was truly saddened by Mike's death, most were anxious to see what they could get their hands on or what Mike might of left them in his will. Danny, Leanne, Adam and Penny were worrying that Mike may have given things away as his sanity had slipped, not to mention how much money he may have left in the bank.

While Carol downed the contents of Mike's scotch cabinet, Les and Cilla gawped while smuggling as much food and drink as they could into their clothing. The Croppers stood awkwardly, not knowing where to put themselves while the likes of Vera and Jack and Audrey shared their memories of Mike.

The Barlows had all come on mass to support Adam, even Peter had driven up from Portsmouth. All that is, except Tracy who thanks to Charlie Stubbs wasn’t in a position to support anyone. Deirdre wept into Ken's arms. "Oh Ken, its not fair, he only had Alzheimer's eleven months. Most people live years."

DANNY: Cheer up Dreary love. This is a celebration

Deirdre snapped back "its a wake or hadn't you noticed."

Viv stepped forward, " I think what my son is trying to say, this is a celebration of Mike's life. Isn’t that right Danny Love?"

DANNY: Oh yes, that’s what I meant, Mum

ADAM: I bet

PENNY: Now, now Adam this isn't the time or the place.

DANNY: Well I'll go mingle shall I?

PENNY: Yes you do that.

Danny headed straight for Mike's bedroom where he found Leanne laying naked on Mike's bed.

LEANNE: Thought you would never get here

Meanwhile Rita was in her flat downing her third vodka in 10 minutes. The stranger from the funeral was sat on Reet's sofa with glass in one hand and lighting a cigarette in the other. Rita gradually regained some composure and poured herself a fourth drink before joining her guest on the sofa.

RITA: Okay Linda what are you doing back in Weatherfield. Mike told you never to set foot here again

LINDA: (smirking) Ah Mike's not here is he, he's dead!

Rita looked down. "Oh why so sad" Linda mocked. "At least he married me. More than he did with you..." Rita so wanted to smack Linda in the mouth and wipe that evil smirk of her face once and for all. However if she did that she would never know what the conniving cow really wanted.

Meanwhile back in Mike's bedroom, Leanne and Danny were all over each other.

DANNY: Not long now babe, just a few more hours and this is all ours

LEANNE: I take it you sorted the will.

DANNY: Most definitely. As well as the one on 18th January 2006 leaving me everything, he made a codicil in March confirming that I was his only heir.

LEANNE: However he had well and truly lost it by then

DANNY: Exactly. But we only have Penny and Adam's word for it he was losing his mind back in January. However I'm hoping if he has stuck to the same story twice, they will decide he did know what he wanted regarding me.

LEANNE: (looking a little confused but pretending to understand) Ah, good thinking.

DANNY: There's one problem though, Rita Sullivan

LEANNE: (looking puzzled) That old bag in The Kabin, what's she got to do with anything;

DANNY: That my sweet I do not know, but there's some things Mike went on about in his ramblings and I found in his paperwork.

LEANNE: Like what?

DANNY: (nuzzling at Leanne's ear) Let's not worry about that now. Plenty of time for all that later when that lot leave.

LEANNE: You are right, besides you sorted Adam, Penny and Mark. So Rita Sullivan is no threat.

Leanne and Danny got on with their love making

Meanwhile back at Reet's flat. An hour had passed and Rita and Linda were sitting in an awkward silence.

RITA: Well, this has been nice catching up. I suppose you ought to be getting back on that broomstick of yours and heading to wherever it is you head to. Halloween’s due isn’t it?

LINDA: Not for another six months and I'm not going anywhere. And if you don't mind I could do with staying ‘ere a few nights.

Linda lit another cigarette and put her feet up on Rita’s sofa.

Rita rolled her eyes.

LINDA: You owe me remember?

RITA: Oh I owe you nothing lady!

LINDA: And here I thought you liked me

RITA: Liked you? You were just a means to an end

Linda generally looked crestfallen

LINDA: I know you won't believe me but I did love him y'know

Rita rolled her eyes again.

RITA: Look what is it you really want Linda?

LINDA: Who knows, perhaps I just want revenge

Linda curled up her bottom lip and smirked at Rita

Rita went down her stairs to her front door and opened it. Linda followed behind with her 10th cigarette in hand

LINDA: Where are you going

RITA: If you really cared for Mike, you would respect his wishes and just go and never show your face around these parts again.

Linda didn't move from the top of the stairs flicking fag ash onto the carpet. Rita glared at her.

LINDA: Who said it was revenge I wanted on you? I've come back for what's rightfully mine and one thing for certain none of that lot gone to the wake meant anything to Mike so why should they have it?

Rita slammed the door and prepared to yell at Linda. However then she stood still and thought for a moment. Now, Linda was talking. As much as Rita might despise Linda, Rita hated Mike's family more. “Why should they have it all their way?” She thought. Rita was also outraged at the way they had behaved throughout the funeral. They hadn't even stopped their bickering during the Vicar's sermon.

Both Linda and Rita knew that the only person Mike truly loved and cared about alive today, was standing in Rita's very own flat.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 3

Back at the wake Leanne and Danny were still full of cheer and love making in Mike's bedroom when Penny barged in

DANNY: Hey Pen, you can't come barging in here

Leanne tried desperately to cover herself up

PENNY: I don't care what you do with your little trollop, Danny, just tell me where my belongings are and I'll be out of your life for good

DANNY: What are you talking about? Everything in this flat belongs to Mike's estate

LEANNE: And his heir, (Danny threw her a look) umm, heirs whoever they may be

Penny began to cry for the umpteenth time that day

PENNY: (sobbing) all I want is my belongings back. When Mike threw me out at New Year, he didn't give me everything back and wouldn't let me come back here to collect anything

LEANNE: Well, what do you want us to do about it

PENNY: They must be here somewhere. (She started flinging open cupboards and drawers.) He kept saying he would return them but never did

DANNY: Well go ask Adam or something will you and Pen stop the tears for heaven's sake.

Penny left to find Adam and soon between them they were bundling items into bags, all of which Penny claimed were hers.

Meanwhile back at Reet's flat, Rita was pacing the room. “What had she got herself into?” Linda had unpacked all her belongings and it looked like she had enough to last months not just a few days. There was fag ash everywhere and 30 cigarettes in the ashtray. Linda had only been in Rita's flat two hours. To top it all without any warning, Linda had gone out saying she had business to attend to and didn't know when she would be back.

Meanwhile back at the wake Leanne and Danny had emerged from the bedroom. Carol was in a drunken stupor and they were just in time for Peter to propose a toast

PETER: I would like to propose a toast

DANNY: (to Leanne) oh here we go, prepare to be bored. All Barlows need shooting. Remind me again what relation he is to the 'scotch egg'?

PETER: It is a great privilege to be here today. Thank you Adam for inviting me. This has to be the happiest day of my life

Danny looked at Leanne "what's he on about?"

PETER: At long last the man who killed my sister and brought such unhappiness to the Barlow family over many years, is finally dead. He’s probably to blame for what’s happened to Tracy too…

DEIRDRE: Oh Ken do something he can't be saying that today of all days

DANNY: Hold on, that's my Dad you are talking about

ADAM: Like you ever cared

PENNY: Leave it Adam

ADAM: No I won't

DANNY: (Mockingly) Yes do what Lady Penelope says there's a good boy Adam

LEANNE: (Looking at Penny) And Danny what's all that in her bag

Leanne went to grab the bag and lots of little objects taken from the flat fell onto the floor

DANNY: Why you thief

ADAM: No she's not, they are all hers

Danny rounded on Adam. "I've had about enough of your lip."

ADAM: So what are you going to do about it Danny boy?

That was it for Danny. He had put up with Adam's sanctimonious attitude now for over a year and could take no more. He lifted up his fist and went to strike. However Penny pushed Adam out the way and instead Danny's fist met with Leanne's jaw.

As Leanne lay out cold on the floor Les and Cilla came running over

LES: (bellowing) Whose done this to my liccle girl

CILLA: (screeching) She better get better otherwise kiss goodbye to all of this because we will be suing for medical bills.

Penny blamed Leanne, "the silly girl deserved it" she declared. Adam blamed Danny, Danny blamed Peter for his silly toast and before long, the place was in chaos as the Battersby/Browns, Barlows and Baldwins all started to brawl.

HAYLEY: Roy, I think it is now time we were leaving.

As the Croppers left, others decided to follow suit or join in the escalating fight.

DEIRDRE: Ken, do something.

Back at Rita's flat, she was now getting very angry. On to the 20th vodka of the day she fumed "I could be at that wake now getting all the gossip, but here I am waiting for Lady Muck to return. You better have some gossip for me Norris" she said out loud to thin air.

Back at the wake Ken was desperately trying to stop the fight

KEN: (meekly) uhh, listen everybody

No one looked up

Ken shouted a bit louder. "Come on folks we are supposed to be remembering Mike"

BLANCHE: As if they care about that

Deirdre threw her a look and Ken tried again to get everyone's attention.

BLANCHE: Oh come here I'll get them to listen

Blanche proceeded to pick up a vase from the side and lifted it above her head

DEIRDRE: Mother, whatever are you doing?

Blanche let the vase crash to the floor. The loud clatter stopped the fight and they all stood to attention in utter silence.

DEIRDRE (hissed at Blanche): That could of been an antique

“It was and it belonged to me” bellowed Penny, who came running over from the fight.

BLANCHE: See! Got there attention didn't it.

KEN: Now everyone Leanne seems to be coming round and it is nearing 5pm, which means it is time for the will to be read to Mike's nearest and dearest

The Baldwins jumped for glee and chanted "the will, the will, we want the will. Danny smirked and said to himself "Showtime!"

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 4

It had been pre-decided that the will would be read at the factory Mike had loved so much by Ken at 5pm to Carol, Frankie, Viv, Penny, Adam, Danny, Warren and Jamie. Deirdre was to go along too for the show. Warren and Jamie took a lot of persuading to go. Warren had a plane to catch back to Spain and Jamie didn't care what his granddad had left to whom.

CAROL: Of course you should care son. You never know what he might of left yah.

FRANKIE: Mike was always fall of surprises, so it might be worth a laugh.

The family all made their separate ways to the factory. However it was Leanne and Danny who got there first.

DANNY: Well this is it love, the moment we have been waiting for is almost here and I'm also very sorry about earlier

LEANNE: How sorry?

Removing the ring he had given Leanne months earlier from one of her fingers, he gently placed it on her wedding finger

DANNY: Le, will you marry me?

Leanne smiled and embraced Danny. All her Christmases had come at once

LEANNE: Wait til I tell Dad and Cilla.

DANNY: You deserve it love because without you all my dreams and our goals of the last three months wouldn't be happening.

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

5pm came and everyone sat down ready for the will reading. Danny and Leanne couldn't contain their smirks. However it hadn't escaped their notice that Penny also looked remarkably chipper for someone who had spent most of the afternoon sobbing her heart out.

KEN: Okay everyone in this envelope is the last wishes of Michael Vernon Baldwin

CAROL: (drunkenly) Yeah, yeah, yeah, we know all that just get on with it man

All waited with baited breath as Ken ripped open the envelope

FRANKIE: (to Jamie) That looks a small envelope for a will? He either hasn't left much or not got many last wishes?

KEN: Right, I have a letter here from Mike's solicitors. All wills made after the 1st January 2006 have been declared void due to questions over Mike's mental fitness to make such decisions.

Leanne's jaw dropped.

DANNY: You what

Adam sat smugly

LEANNE: Don't know why you are so smug

PENNY: He isn't. But I am. I couldn't let you pair get away with manipulating Mike the way you have been these past few months and leave Adam out in the cold

LEANNE: Why you sly bitch

Carol and Frankie began to giggle from the back

KEN: Please everyone come on. I haven't finished yet.

DANNY: Yes, I want to hear this, and you do realise Pen that I will contest anything that snubs me and my sons. If anyone has been manipulating Mike it is you and golden boy there

Ken cleared his throat, "shall I continue?" he said. Everyone in the room nodded their heads as the grin on Penny's face widened. Whispering into Adam's ear she declared "we've won."

KEN: Well it would seem that before his Wednesday 18th January 2006 will, the Last Will and Testament Mike made was May 2002.

DANNY: 2002! (whispering to Leanne) we really are screwed.

Penny began to look worried but Adam's grin widened.

KEN: The will is marked 1st May 2002. I, Michael Vernon Baldwin of sound mind…

CAROL: Oh come on, we know all that

LEANNE: Do we?

Frankie and Carol began to giggle again.

CAROL: (whispering to Frankie) This was definitely worth coming to

FRANKIE: I say

PENNY: Look, shut up can we get on with this please.

Danny, Leanne, Carol and Frankie glared at her. Ken cleared his throat.

KEN: “Upon hearing of the whereabouts and the safety of my missing wife, I now feel able to make a new will with a clear conscience. Regarding my share of the business,”

Adam looked at Penny “his share of the business? Danny wasn’t around then!”

However this throwaway comment would soon get lost for the time-being in what was to follow.

KEN: I hear-by leave 10% of Underworld to my son Mark Redman and 10% to my son Adam Barlow. I make no further provision for them as they have both benefited and will continue to benefit from trust funds set up by myself and their respective mothers.

ADAM: What?

PENNY: So what happens to the rest?

DANNY: Good question Pen, good question,

KEN: My remaining share of the business, plus my flat, my entire bank accounts and all other possessions...(Ken paused)... this can't be right

They all looked blankly at Ken

KEN: No this can't be

FRANKIE: He's gone left it to the dog’s home, the old devil.

Carol and Frankie cackled

DANNY: Cor blimey, he hasn't has he?

Ken looked up and shook his head, clearing his breath he began to speak softly

KEN: I can't believe this. " My remaining share of the business, plus my flat, my entire bank accounts and all other possessions I leave to my business partner and partner in life, my beloved wife whom I love dearly."

"Wife", Penny shot out of her seat. "He doesn't have a wife. He was going to marry me but we all know what happened there (gritting her teeth) don't we Danny?

DANNY: Don’t look at me

Adam looked forlornly before announcing, "But Dad did have a wife in 2002 didn't he?"

DEIRDRE: (Shaking her head) She had just put him through a murder enquiry at that time too? I can’t believe Mike would so easily of forgiven her for that?

PENNY: No he wouldn’t and besides he divorced her

DANNY: So all may not be lost and I bought into the business so 49% of the business is mine anyway?

Danny smirked, Leanne grinned and Adam frowned while the other onlookers looked thoughtful as the giggling Carol and Frankie made their exits.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 5

It was 4am in Rita's flat over The Kabin in Coronation Street when she was awoken to groaning and squealing noises coming from the bedroom next door. As the noises went on, the final straw came for Reet when she heard a male voice mumble "hey watch where you are putting that cigarette"

Rita leapt out of bed and opened her bedroom door. She stopped in her tracks as she began to choke from all the smoke circulating around the flat. She saw cigarette burns in the carpet and on the furniture and empty bottles of Champaign everywhere. "That's It" she cried as she banged on the spare bedroom door.

RITA: Linda, Linda, you come out of there right now.

Linda flung open the door with just a towel covering her. Rita thought she could see a man behind her.

RITA: What the heck is going on?

Linda looked thoughtful, before finally brightening up

LINDA: I'm entertaining

RITA: I gathered that but with whom?

Linda beckoned her companion to the door

LINDA: This is...

RITA: (interrupting) Charlie Stubbs you get out of my flat this instant

LINDA: Reet, don't be like that. He was all alone in The Weatherfield Arms

RITA: Did it ever occur to you why he might be alone?

Linda shook her head

RITA: Well I’m not surprised to hear that no wants him but he can still go and you can get out an all

Linda pouted

LINDA: You don't mean that?

RITA: (With raised voice) Oh but I do

LINDA: (Yelling) I don't think you do really, unless of course you want the whole street knowing about your sordid little secret

RITA: You wouldn't? On second thoughts you would. Okay you can stay but I want HIM out

LINDA: (turning to Charlie) It’s been fun but I think you better leave now

CHARLIE: Just like that?

LINDA: I think it best. I’m getting rather tired now anyway. (she yawned) It’s been a long night

Charlie kissed her before saying "we'll catch up later okay." Linda nodded without saying a word. Charlie gathered his things together and left. After he had gone

RITA: What were you thinking?

"I'm a grieving widow" cried Linda. "I needed some fun."

RITA: Some fun, some fun, I reckon Tracy Barlow thought she was having some fun when she went with him

LINDA: I'm not a Barlow. They're all a load of wimps

RITA: That as may be but Tracy Barlow made you look like Mary Poppins

LINDA: Yeah, yeah, yeah

RITA: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Do you know where she is now?

Linda shook her head “No, but I’m sure you are going to tell me”

RITA: Less of your lip Madam. Tracy Barlow is doing 25-50 years in a Thai jail and got herself disfigured in a prison riot too.

Linda laughed

RITA: And another thing, what's this about you being a grieving widow. From where I'm standing you are certainly not grieving and you divorced Mike years ago so you are hardly a widow!

LINDA: Oh Reet, don't be like this

RITA: And there's something I've been wondering all night, how did you know Mike was dead

LINDA: (defiantly) Mike's solicitors contacted me didn't they?

RITA: Why would they do that?

Linda shrugged

RITA: Oh I've got no time for this I'm going to have to get washed and dressed and the newspapers prepared. No point going back to sleep now

Rita stomped off and Linda went back to her cigarettes and bed.

It was 11am and having sent the girls home for the day Danny and Leanne were sitting in Mike's office at Underworld when Penny and Adam arrived.

Danny jumped up

DANNY: So what did they say, is there any hope?

LEANNE: That bitch can't be allowed to get it all

ADAM: (triumphantly) And she won't. Tell them Penny

DANNY: She won't? Yes come on Pen

PENNY: (looking smug) Now Danny we are all going to have to stick together on this, but my solicitor says we have a good case

LEANNE: Well spill then

ADAM: Linda and Dad were divorced

LEANNE: Tell us something we don't know

PENNY: So it makes that Will meaningless as it was written while they were still married.

DANNY: Well if you had left alone we wouldn’t have to worry about that Will would we Pen? Mike’s estate would be in its rightful hands

PENNY: And Adam would of got nothing would he?

LEANNE: Now now! Remember you said we had to stick together Penny?

Penny threw Leanne a look and began to speak

ADAM: Penny just don’t waste your breath, just get to the point. Linda’s the immediate problem at the moment not Danny

DANNY: Well I never thought I’d hear you say that brother dear

Adam glared at Danny. Penny began to turn on her heel, “why am I bothering?” she declared.

LEANNE: Come on, what’s that old saying, united we stand divided we fall. Let’s hear what Penny was going to say

DANNY: Yes, sorry Pen

PENNY: Okay, but I really mean it, we have to stick together on this if we have any chance of overturning that 2002 will.

DANNY: And with any luck this Linda bird won’t know about Mike dying anyway

LEANNE: (under her breath) I wouldn’t count on that

PENNY: Well it doesn’t matter what Linda does and what she knows because according to my solicitor once she became divorced from Mike, any will made during their marriage became null and void.

LEANNE: You think it is really that simple? Clearly none of you know that gold-digging cow.

ADAM: Linda wasn’t that bad

Penny shot Adam a bitter look

ADAM: …but even if she is unreasonable all we have to do is prove that Dad didn't love her when he died

DANNY: That'll be easy seeing as they were divorced and hadn’t seen each other for years

PENNY: And then the estate will go into probate and probably be divided between you 3 boys

ADAM: So we best contact Mark

Danny reluctantly agreed but after Penny and Adam left, he confided in Leanne he didn't like the way this was going. If it went to probate the most he was going to get is a third

LEANNE: Well you will just have to play Mark and Adam up against each other. It shouldn't be hard to beat them.

DANNY: You reckon

LEANNE: And remember you own 49% which you bought fairly and squarely?

Danny smirked and leant in to give Leanne a kiss.

LEANNE: We've come this far haven't we? Mark's a wimp trust me and as for Adam,

DANNY: A total prat?

They both chuckled.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[pearly queen]

Oh yes, very good. All very cut-throat isn't it.

'Where there's a will there's a wife...' as the old saying goes.

Especially liked the Peter Barlow outburst - spot on, someone had to say it!

[RitaLittlewood]

It is. I know I was roped in to help after Lane had done such a lot (her idea for Reet to have a sordid little secret which will be revealed much later) but I was gripped. Linda's such a bitch. Wish they had her now. Doesn't have to actually do anything. Just what she comes out with. Not like nowadays.

Hope you enjoy the rest, Pearly.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

Part 6

Over at The Kabin

BLANCHE: He should be ashamed of himself. He'd be better off finding himself a nice respectable elderly woman instead of a flighty piece only after the title and money.

NORRIS: We know that but you can't tell some people. This Duke of Weatherfield is no worse than Ken or Mike.

BLANCHE: Vanity and a desperate attempt to prove they're not past it. Ken was bad but he never went in for teenyboppers like Mike Baldwin.

RITA: What's all this?

NORRIS: (shows her the paper) We were just discussing the Duke of Weatherfield being left by his latest young girlfriend.

FIZ: What I don't understand is how he can be called Duke of Weatherfield when Weatherfield Hall is actually in Cheshire.

BLANCHE: That's because the original Weatherfield Hall fell into disrepair while he was flitting about in Monte Carlo and other places. So he bought another one, saying Weatherfield was too common to live in.

NORRIS: Not that he's ever there either. Spends all his time in his other homes in London, Paris, has a villa in Tuscany, beach houses in California and Phuket and mansions in Australia.

FIZ: Must be pretty draughty so I don't blame him.

RITA: What's Mike got to do with the Duke of Weatherfield?

NORRIS: The way they both went for girlfriends young enough to be their granddaughter. It's disgraceful.

BLANCHE: At least the young women of Weatherfield are safe from Mike Baldwin's ageing clutches now. In fact I wouldn't be at all surprised if every woman in Weatherfield celebrated his death. Who wants to be mauled by him unless they're insane?

RITA: (snaps) Have you lot got nowt better to do than gossip all day? This happens to be a business not a garden fence.

NORRIS: We were only saying-

RITA: I know what you were only saying and I want it stopped.

BLANCHE: You didn't object when we told you what happened with the Baldwins in the Rovers.

NORRIS: Good point Blanche. You certainly lapped all that up.

RITA: (clomps him with the paper) Oh shurrup and get back to work! None of you know what you're talking about. None of you. I'll not have Mike talked about like that in MY shop. Or anyone come to that. And it is still MY shop Norris despite your delusions of grandeur. I say what goes not you. And if you don't like it you can give me your share back. I'll gladly buy it back off you. How would you all like it eh? Would you like me to start gossiping about you? No I bet you wouldn't.

Blanche and Fiz bid a hasty retreat, knowing what Rita was like when she was in one of her moods and wanted to be as far away as possible. At that moment Linda walked in.

RITA: You CAN deal with her I trust. I'm going to make a cup of tea.

NORRIS: Don't forget to bring a couple of biscuits.

RITA: YOU can get your own.

NORRIS: I've been stuck here all morning on my own as usual while you get up to whatever you get up to upstairs. I'm gasping Rita.

RITA: Not surprised the way your tongue's been waggling. Perhaps if you hadn't spent so much time gossiping you wouldn't be.

She gave Linda a steely glare then disappeared out the back.

NORRIS: What can I do for you?

LINDA: You know I always forget if you're known as Dozy Doris or Nosey Norris.

NORRIS: Just Norris or Mr Cole will do.

LINDA: Whatever. Give us some of my fag papers.

As Norris turned and reached for them, Linda spotted the paper and left.

NORRIS: That'll be... Charming.

RITA: What did you do to offend her?

NORRIS: Nothing. Honestly Rita. She asked for some cigarette papers and when I turned back round she'd gone.

RITA: I hope she's gone for good. Nothing but trouble that one. Always was.

She sipped her tea while Norris wondered what she meant by that remark considering Rita and Linda used to be quite friendly.

Over at the factory Leanne and Danny were plotting their next plan of action when Linda walked in interrupting them.

DANNY: If you've come for the machinist job love it isn't convenient today.

LEANNE: Danny it's Linda Sykes.

LINDA: Er, Linda Baldwin if you don't mind. So no I haven't come for a job. I'm not going backwards in my life. I've come to claim what's rightfully mine.

DANNY: (laughs) You've gotta be joking love. You don't stand a chance. The courts will tell you that. As his ex-wife you are entitled to a big fat zero of any of Michael's assets. Furthermore I happen to own 49% of this business so I'm in charge until his estate is sorted.

LINDA: You're the one that's joking 'love'. As Mike's wife I get everything making all wills null and void. You see we never divorced and what's more I can prove it. Must have been losing his mind then to forget to sign the papers. Like he must've forgot to tell you he gave me 50% of the business in March 2001 so couldn't sell it even if he wanted to. That is unless the 49% you own was of Mike's share in the first place. Still makes me the majority shareholder however you look at it.

Linda sneered

LINDA: So whichever way it is I’m still boss!

Danny and Leanne were shell-shocked. Linda curled her lip and did a sly smirk.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 7

Rita arrived home after a hard day in The Kabin to find Linda at home looking miserable over the Weatherfield Gazette and smoking.

RITA: Oh it's you. I thought when you stormed out of the shop earlier I'd seen the back of you.

LINDA: Wished you had more like.

RITA: I could always throw you out.

LINDA: And I could always accidentally on purpose tell all your friends your secret. They'll never look at you the same again. All those lies you've been telling. Tut, tut, Reet. You'll lose all your friends when they find that out.

RITA: It wasn't ALL lies.

LINDA: No. I'll give you that. There was a grain of truth in some of it. Only a very SMALL grain though.

RITA: I thought you were going out with Charlie Stubbs.

LINDA: Oh that's right. Change the subject. If you can't stand the heat, don't tell lies. They always come out in the end no matter how you try and keep them secret.

RITA: I could kill Mike for telling you.

LINDA: Pity he's already dead then.

RITA: I'm going to ignore that remark with the contempt you deserve. Have you been crying?

LINDA: Me? Cry? Don't be daft. Hard cows like me never cry.

RITA: Is it Charlie? Has he done something?

LINDA: Would you care if he had?

Rita said nothing.

LINDA: No it's not Charlie. And seeing as you're so interested in my love life I can't be bothered seeing him tonight.

RITA: Considering it's happening under my roof course I'm interested. I want to know what fella I'll be forced to look at over breakfast.

LINDA: Weren't forced to look at Mike though were you?

RITA: That's below the belt lady. Even for you.

LINDA: Thought you'd have learnt by now Reet nothing's below the belt for me.

Rita turned away fighting the tears and poured herself a very large vodka.

LINDA: I'm sorry.

RITA: No you're not and don't even try and pretend you are.

She turned to look her straight in the eye.

RITA: You may have fooled this lot round here but you never did me. I know what you're capable of.

LINDA: Pillow talk was it between you and my husband? Tell you what an evil heartless bitch I am did he?

RITA: If you must know yes. And he was dead right.

LINDA: I know he was. Now he's just dead.

RITA: (crying) GET OUT!

LINDA: I didn't mean that. I'm sorry.

RITA: Oh yes you did.

She slammed the drink down, grabbed Linda and dragged her out of the lounge.

RITA: Go on. Clear off. I don't care what you say about me. Tell the world if you want. As you say Mike's dead so I can always deny it. Mike's dead.

She released Linda and collapsed in a heap on the floor sobbing. For once Linda felt compassion for her rival in Mike's affections. She crouched down and put a comforting arm around her.

LINDA: I really am sorry for what I said Reet. I know you loved him. I did too no matter what people think. I know I didn't to start with but it grew.

RITA: What am I going to do without him? He was my whole life for over 40 years.

LINDA: 40 years? How did you two meet then?

Rita looked up and wiped her eyes on her sleeve.

RITA: My agent got me a job in London. Pay was better than up here.

LINDA: Agent?

RITA: I was a singer though had to do a bit of exotic dancing at times so I could afford to eat.

LINDA: Is that like stripping?

RITA: Could be. I never had to do that though. Just danced with a load of feathers. Anyway the booking was extended several months. I still couldn't afford much what with London prices so I'd go down the markets to buy food and clothes. That's where I met him. Typical Cockney wide-boy trying to flog me knickers.

She laughed at the memory.

LINDA: Then he tried to get into them.

RITA: (smiles) And succeeded. We had such passion. Couldn't keep our hands off each other or bear to be apart. He'd even come to the club and wait backstage for me to finish then we'd go back to mine. I'd thought with me being 10 years older he wouldn't be interested. But he was. I loved him more than any one else in my life. Loved him every day since we met.

LINDA: He never said it had been going on that long.

RITA: No? Just told you about my 'sordid little secret then'. Nice to know he could keep some things strictly private.

LINDA: What happened? If you don't mind me asking. I mean you never married or anything.

RITA: (sighs) No. My date ended and I had to come back up here. We promised we'd keep in touch and see each other whenever possble but it just sort of fizzled out. I never stopped loving him though. I just got on with my life like he did his down there. Nearly gave me a heart attack when he turned up here 30 years ago to open his factory. I thought I'd got over him. Put him out of my head but I hadn't. And well you know the rest.

Linda nodded while Rita was glad her lies had fooled her. She wasn't going to tell Linda the whole truth about those days and risk something else being held over her.

RITA: I'm sorry Linda.

LINDA: What have you got to be sorry about? We both know the only woman Mike ever loved was you.

RITA: I mean I'm sorry you ended up part of this. A pawn in our affair to keep it secret.

LINDA: What do you mean?

RITA: (sighs) It was all my idea he should marry you. He was against it. He needed an heir simple as that and he wasn't getting any younger. I managed to persuade him.

LINDA: Pity you didn't persuade him to sign the divorce papers while you were at it?

RITA: (shocked) You and Mike are still married?

LINDA: Yep. Correction we were until he died. Now I'm his widow.

Rita started sobbing again at the thought of him being dead and never marrying him.

LINDA: Oh please don't start the waterworks again. It's not my fault. I wanted the divorce. I didn't want to be his wife any more. I left in the first place because of both of your double standards. Fine for Mike to sleep with you behind my back but not me for with Mark or Harvey Reuben. I know it must have been difficult for you seeing him married when you wanted to marry him yourself. You should be his widow by rights not me. You're more worthy of his name. So don't cry over it.

RITA: If you're thinking I'm crying because he never married me you're very much mistaken. I didn't want to marry him. I loved him yes. But after what happened after London decided it was better to stay lovers rather than husband and wife. I'm crying because you just reminded me he's dead you stupid cow! That I'll never see him again.

LINDA: I'm sorry. I keep saying I'm sorry Reet because I am. I don't mean to upset you. But we can't deny the fact he is which is why I'm here in the first place.

RITA: (sighs) I know. I wish he wasn't. But no matter how much I want to I can't change anything. I'd give anything in the world to see him again. Just once.

LINDA: You will one day I'm sure.

RITA: When I'm dead too. No reaction when I told you I fixed your marriage?

LINDA: Should there be?

RITA: You feeling all right?

LINDA: Fine. I might have been more angry if I'd just found out about you and him. But I had a feeling considering when I later discovered how much you loved each other something had gone on which had made him suddenly propose marriage.

RITA: Why wouldn't he divorce you?

LINDA: You really didn't know that?

RITA: If I did would I be asking?

LINDA: Suppose not. Search me. He never told me. I thought he told you everything though.

RITA: (bitterly) So did I.

LINDA: Look Reet I'm sorry I've been the house guest from hell. Soon as I've done what I came here to do I'll be out of your hair. Promise.

RITA: (smiles weakly) That's okay. At least you've taken my mind off... Well some of the time anyroad.

LINDA: I would like us to be friends you know. We used to be once.

RITA: Before you found out about me and Mike you mean.

LINDA: Yes. I didn't mean to blackmail you into letting me stay. I had hoped you would anyway. As I said nothing's below the belt for me.

RITA: You got that right. (sighs) Okay. We'll see how things go from now on. But one more sarcastic crack about Mike and you're out on year ear and hang the consequences.

LINDA: (smiles) Deal. Now come on. Let's get you off the floor before you seize up.

RITA: I'm not that past it yet you know.

LINDA: So I gathered from the way you dragged me out here.

Rita smiled back as Linda helped her up.

RITA: I could do with a drink. I never did finish that vodka off.

LINDA: I'll join you. We can drink a toast to Mike. What do you say?

RITA: I think that would be very nice.

They returned to the lounge. Rita poured Linda a glass then picked up her own.

RITA: To Mike.

LINDA: Wherever he is I'm sure he's happy and longing for the day he'll be reunited with the only woman he ever loved.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 8

Next morning Penny, Adam and Danny were at Mike’s solicitors’ and were shocked to discover that Mike really did put 50% of the business into Linda’s name in March 2001 with the intention that Adam would get the other half upon Mike’s death.

DANNY: Tell me you're joking.

SOLICITOR: I'm afraid I'm not Mr Baldwin. It's all here in black and white.

Danny picked up the papers.

DANNY: It's all in legalese.

SOLICITOR: Which I have explained in plain English. Your father had booked an appointment for the 1st May 2002 to start divorce proceedings against the latest Mrs Baldwin after it had been revealed she had been in Dublin all that time. He wanted a quickie divorce especially after being accused of murdering her. But on that date he came in and said he'd changed his mind. Didn't go into detail. Just said he wanted to change his will instead, Mrs Baldwin being the main beneficiary and after what she'd put him through it was till death do them part.

PENNY: But he proposed to me. How could he have married me knowing he was still married to her?

DANNY: Knowing Michael he'd have got out of it somehow Pen.

ADAM: Is there anything we can do to fight her?

SOLICITOR: Tricky. As Mrs Baldwin is legally entitled to 50% of the business the only thing I can suggest is you try and prove Mike was suffering from Alzheimer's 4 years ago.

DANNY: Oh that should be a piece of cake. He hated Linda and wouldn't have wanted her to have anything so must have been going doolally.

ADAM: I liked Linda.

DANNY: You would haggis face.

ADAM: (glares) She was good to me after mum died. But you're right about dad hating her. He wouldn't have wanted a penny going to her. Not after the amount she took from him during their marriage.

PENNY: What can we do to prove all of this though and how much is it going to cost?

SOLICITOR: It won't be easy but you just leave all that side to me. You'll have to go to court though and it could get ugly.

DANNY: Even when we're in the right and she's a money-grabbing slapper?

SOLICITOR: Even then I'm afraid. With any luck it won't get that far and she'll go for an out-of-court settlement. Bring the costs down for a start. Well? Do you want me to proceed?

DANNY: Pen?

PENNY: Yes. I'll do anything.

ADAM: You can count me in.

DANNY: That's settled then. She has no chance. We'll teach her she can't mess with the Baldwins again.

Back on Coronation Street Linda walked down the street when she saw Mark pull up.

MARK: Linda!

LINDA: What do you want Mark?

MARK: You know what.

LINDA: Clear off back to your playpen kid. I have bigger fish to fry.

MARK: But I love you and know you love me.

LINDA: Love you? That'll be the day.

She walked away. He chased after her and grabbed her arm.

LINDA: Get your hands off me or I'll scream.

MARK: Go ahead Linda. Scream.

LINDA: I will you know.

MARK: What you waiting for? Want me to do it for you? Get all that attention you crave so badly?

LINDA: Now you're being stupid.

MARK: I must be to have taken up with you in the first place.

LINDA: So must I!

They stared at each other in silence before giving into a passionate kiss.

Later on Linda was in The Rovers having a drink with Peter Barlow .

PETER: How do you stick those Baldwins?

LINDA: I don't but will put up with anything until I get what I'm entitled to. I always liked Adam though. Shame he's grown up to be just as bad.

PETER: That's Danny's influence. Danny really hates him so Adam tries to be the big man and be just as horrible.

LINDA: I can believe that. Didn't Mike try and stop it?

PETER: From what I can gather it all started behind Mike's back when he started losing his mind. Dad should have done something. Not that Adam would listen.

LINDA: Kids eh?

PETER: Fancy going on somewhere?

LINDA: Why not? It's dead round here. Always was.

Linda and Peter headed for the door when Charlie Stubbs walked in.

CHARLIE: So is he your latest?

LINDA: What are you talking about?

CHARLIE: Did you stand me up last night for him?

LINDA: I stayed in last night. Had a bad day. Not that it's any of your business.

CHARLIE: You didn't even have the decency to let me know. I was waiting for you looking like a right prat.

LINDA: Only looking like one?

Charlie hit her.

CHARLIE: Don't you speak to me like that you tart!

SHELLEY: That's enough. Get out Charlie. You're barred remember for leaving Tracy to rot in that Thai jail.

CHARLIE: She got what was coming to her and so will this bitch.

Fred and Steve grabbed him.

CHARLIE: Don't worry. I'm going.

He looked directly at Linda.

CHARLIE: Can't stand the smell in here. But I'll get you for this. Just you wait. No one stands up Charlie Stubbs.

FRED: We'll have none of that talk. I say we'll have none of that talk. You're not wanted here.

They threw him out.

PETER: You all right?

LINDA: Fine. But I think I'll give tonight a miss. Just want to get home if it's all the same to you.

PETER: Fine.

LINDA: We'll make it another night eh?

PETER: Okay.

LINDA: Night.

PETER: Night Linda.

Linda left. Rita had been watching the events from a booth.

RITA: I think I'll call it a night. Got to be up to do the papers. See you.

EMILY: Goodnight Rita.

Rita crossed the road and entered her flat. She found Linda downing a drink and smoking. She put her bag down and took her coat off.

RITA: Linda?

LINDA: What?

RITA: You okay? I was worried about you.

LINDA: No need to be. I'm absolutely fine. Never better.

RITA: No you're not.

LINDA: Since when did you become an expert on how I feel Rita?

RITA: Since you've been living under my roof.

Rita sat on the sofa beside her.

RITA: He's a nasty piece of work that Charlie Stubbs. You'd better be careful.

LINDA: I can handle him.

RITA: That's what Tracy Barlow said and look what happened to her.

LINDA: An amateur.

RITA: (sighs) What's going on in that head of yours Linda? You can put on as much bravado as you like but you can't fool me. I know when someone's putting a brave face on things. Should do the amount of times I've done it myself.

LINDA: Like now?

RITA: Like now. I have to get up every day and listen to all Mike's exes reminiscing about they things they did when they were with him and can't join in. I can't talk about Mike the way they do. Can't talk about him at all like any of them even the likes of Ken. After all I'm supposed to have been nothing more than a friend and not a particularly close one at that.

LINDA: I can imagine.

RITA: No you can't. You'll never be able to imagine what it's like in a million years. Everyone weeping and wailing when he died and since. I can't do that. Has to stay bottled up. The funeral was hell. I was torn apart inside and there were all his ex-lovers and that dreadful Penny all sobbing their hearts out. But what could I do? Just be sad and allow a few tears. I felt like screaming at them, "Belt up the lot of you! Mike never really loved any of you. It was me he loved so I'm the only one who has any right to grieve!" but I had to keep it all in. Still have to and that's the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Deirdre really gets on my goat acting like the grieving widow when she doesn't even love him any more and hasn't for over 20 years.

LINDA: She does like to hijack everything.

RITA: Then there's that dreadful Penny. I can't stand that woman. She got him to depend on her. Manipulated him. Used Fred to snare him in the first place and made damn sure she kept control. Mike could never see it though.

LINDA: Don't tell me he loved her.

RITA: He loved none of them. I don't know why he stayed with her. It was a bit strange though he said she couldn't move in she suddenly got burgled and he changed his mind then started losing it.

A tear fell down Rita's face.

LINDA: Coincidence surely about Mike's mind.

RITA: (shrugs) Wouldn't put anything past her. But you're probably right. Just a coincidence.

She took a tissue from her pocket and wiped her eyes.

RITA: Anyway we're not here to talk about my woes. This started by you being upset over what happened in the pub.

LINDA: I'm not upset just mad as hell.

Rita gave her a look.

LINDA: Okay yes I was upset. You breathe a word and I'll kill you.

RITA: Like to see you try. But come on Linda. This is me you're talking to remember? I've opened myself up to you and I know it won't go any further. Can't you trust me to do the same? Thought we were friends now.

LINDA: We are.

RITA: Well then. You don't have to act all tough in here you know. This is just you and me. No one else.

LINDA: I'm just so used to putting the defences up and acting the bitch rather than show my true feelings. I can't handle sympathy and kind words. Makes me want to climb the walls. I just want to get on with things like normal so I hide it.

RITA: We're very much alike in that respect.

LINDA: Seems so. Only I bet you've never been as spiteful and vindictive as me.

RITA: I've had my moments. A VERY long time ago mind. How many people have you actually said sorry to in your life and meant it?

LINDA: You and Mike.

RITA: We have been privileged.

She nudged her in a friendly manner and Linda smiled back.

RITA: So come on. What's behind all this? You were so down yesterday and what with what happened tonight.

LINDA: Yesterday I was just having a bad day that's all. Don't look at me like that. It was!

RITA: I believe you. Thousands wouldn't.

She winked and Linda giggled.

RITA: That's better.

LINDA: It was just my so-called love life that's all. Got me down a bit. I'll tell you about it one day.

RITA: So what about today? Charlie got to you didn't he?

LINDA: (nods) Only 3 people have ever hit me in my life. My dad, Mike and now him. Can't pretend I didn't deserve it becaue I did.

RITA: No one deserves it Linda no matter what they do. I should know.

LINDA: You?

RITA: Yes. Me. A fella I lived with and trusted with my life cheated me out of my money then tried to kill me when he got found out.

LINDA: Oh Rita.

RITA: He's dead now. But he tormented me for weeks after being released from prison and I had a breakdown and disappeared. They stupidly dropped the attempted murder charge. British justice even back then isn't what it was that's for sure. He wasn't the only one though that's laid hands on me in my time. You just put it down to experience and move on or it will eat you up if you think you're to blame.

LINDA: You haven't had it easy have you?

RITA: No but I wouldn't change a thing. Not even Alan Bradley putting me in hospital after he failed to polish me off. It all just made me come out stronger the other side. It can for you too as long as you don't dwell on it.

LINDA: You're very wise for an old woman.

RITA: Wise I can take. Old woman on the other hand...

They laughed.

LINDA: Okay. I'll try and do what you say.

RITA: Good. I don't care how you behave out there. But just be yourself with me. That's all I ask. Anything bothering you, talk to me. You've been my shoulder since we called a truce last night. My shoulder's there any time waiting to get wet from your tears any time you want it.

LINDA: (smiles) Thanks Rita.

RITA: Pleasure. But I meant what I said. Be careful of Charlie Stubbs. He's a bad 'un.

LINDA: Don't worry I will.

RITA: Hungry? Or are you going to have cigarettes and booze for your tea?

LINDA: Less fattening.

RITA: Less healthy too. I'll fix us something. Can't drink on an empty stomach.

She went to the kitchen looking back to see Linda crying.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 9

The weeks soon turned into months. Ken and Deirdre returned home after spending time in the Rovers.

DEIRDRE: Tea?

KEN: Lovely.

There was a noise from upstairs.

KEN: Sounds like Peter's still awake. I'll go and see if he wants any.

Ken left the room and went upstairs. He opened the door.

KEN: Peter I... What the hell is she doing here?

LINDA: Hello Ken.

KEN: Get her out of my house!

PETER: But dad-

KEN: I'm ashamed of you Peter. I thought you'd finished giving me shocks but I was wrong. I want her out and I'll deal with you later.

Ken slammed the door behind him.

PETER: You'd better get dressed.

LINDA: You're not serious.

PETER: You heard what the old man said. Better if you go before there's any more trouble.

LINDA: You flaming wimp! After all these months I thought you'd have behaved better than this. You never even told them about us did you?

PETER: I tried. Linda you know how serious I am about you.

Linda ignored him, got out of bed and put her clothes on.

PETER: I'll see you tomorrow eh?

LINDA: You'll be lucky. I don't want anything to do you with after this.

PETER: Linda...

Downstairs they heard a door slam, footsteps on the stairs and the front door close.

DEIRDRE: Sounds like Linda wasn't too happy.

KEN: Neither am I. How could he do it Deirdre?

DEIRDRE: No idea.

KEN: He'd better come up with a good explanation that's all I can say.

In the street Linda bumped into Dev who was on his way home from the pub.

LINDA: Hiya Dev.

DEV: Oh hello.

LINDA: You don't look too happy. Fancy a bit of company?

DEV: I'm not that desperate. See you.

Linda was put out so decided to go back to Rita's.

Back at Ken's.

DEIRDRE: He's certainly taking his time coming down.

KEN: Probably thinking up some lie to tell us. I'll go up.

Deirdre sat supping her tea and had finished when Ken returned.

KEN: He's gone!

DEIRDRE: He can't have. No one went out.

KEN: Looks like he climbed down the drainpipe. Typical.

Rita arrived home when the pub shut and found her houseguest polluting her flat again. She opened a window.

LINDA: Sorry. Look if my smoking's bothering you just say and I'll go outside.

RITA: Doesn't bother me in the slightest. I did used to smoke myself years ago. Then there was all Mike's cigars.

She turned away to prevent Linda seeing her upset again.

LINDA: You okay?

Rita turned round and smiled.

RITA: Fine.

LINDA: You've been crying.

RITA: Had something in my eye.

Linda didn't believe her but let it go.

LINDA: (sighs) Oh Rita. I need a man.

RITA: Thought you had Peter Barlow.

LINDA: So did I.

RITA: What happened?

LINDA: His flaming dad that's what happened. Wouldn't stand up to him. So any suggestions on a single businessman round here I can date?

RITA: Age group?

LINDA: Doesn't matter.

RITA: Dev?

LINDA: Loves himself too much.

RITA: True. Fred?

LINDA: I hope you're not being serious.

RITA: You said age didn't matter.

LINDA: I changed my mind.

RITA: (laughs) How about Steve McDonald? He's up for anything.

LINDA: Hey that's not a bad idea.

RITA: I was kidding.

LINDA: No Rita. It was a good suggestion.He came onto me once before I blew him out for Mike. Besides as kids me and Karen always shared everything so why not him?

Rita rolled her eyes.

RITA: I'm going to bed. See you in the morning.

LINDA: Yeah night.

The following day Linda decided to begin her mission to get Steve. But first she had to make a little detour.

DANNY: You don't know what you're talking about.

MARK: Of course I do. I have helped run this business before you now. I'm not a total idiot.

LINDA: Since when?

Mark stomped out.

LINDA: Always was a petulant brat. So made any profits for me?

DANNY: Clear off Linda. This ain't your factory. It's ours by rights as Mike's flesh and blood. You're nothing.

LINDA: That's what you think. Ta-ra. For the moment.

She left them to fume, smirking as she waltzed through the door and headed for Street Cars.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 10

Ten months after Mike’s death the court case had arrived on the 16th February 2007. Linda had been continuing her affair with Steve while two-timing him with Mark as well as interferring in the running of the factory. She put her hairbrush down then went to Rita's room where she found her sitting in front of her dressing table and staring in the mirror.

LINDA: Rita? Rita?

She gently touched her shoulder.

RITA: Oh Linda. Is it time to go?

LINDA: Not yet. You been crying again?

RITA: Thinking. Hadn't noticed the tears.

LINDA: Is it because it's Mike's birthday today?

RITA: (nods sadly) He'd have been 65. 9 days time I'll be 75. It's so unfair he died before me. I should have gone first. Law of averages. Why couldn't I have gone first? I don't want all this pain.

LINDA: Mike wouldn't want you talking like that.

RITA: Mike's not here is he? Can't get away from that fact. Especially not with all this will business going on. I can stop talking about it but I can't stop myself thinking it. I want to be with him.

LINDA: And you will be. One day. You know Mike. He'd have hated seeing you so upset. You were doing fine too these last few months. More like your old self.

RITA: (laughs) If only I was. I'll never get over losing him as long as I live and just can't bear it. I'm so empty inside. When he died I felt like I had too and still do. I' on automatic all the time. But I'm still so numb. It's worse than... Well it's worse than anything I've ever been through in my life.

LINDA: What a day for the court to choose to start this case.

RITA: Why can't you just give them what they want Linda? It's making Mike's memory so dirty.

LINDA: Because I want what Mike left me.

RITA: Can't you compromise?

LINDA: No way. He made it clear I was to get nearly everything.

RITA: Why are you doing this?

LINDA: I have my reasons.

RITA: Which are?

LINDA: Tell you some day when this is all over.

RITA: I hope so. But it's not just Mike that I'm thinking about. I was in the same boat nearly 14-and-a-half years ago when my late husband's brother-in-law accused me of marrying Ted for his money knowing he was dying and getting him to change the will in my favour. They tried to make out he wasn't in his right mind because of the tumour and get it overturned.

LINDA: Did they win?

RITA: No. I did in spite of every rotten lie they tried throwing at me. But it sullied everything. The same thing's happening again.

LINDA: I'm sorry. Surely you of all people though should be able to understand why I can't let them do this. It's BECAUSE Mike was sane when he changed his will I have to do it. I can't have them trying to claim he wasn't so they can get his hands on the money he never wanted them to have. I'm doing this for Mike. Keep his wishes.

RITA: And get rich on the proceeds.

LINDA: Do you really still have such a low opinion of me after all these months Rita?

RITA: I'm trying not to. But we know you only took up with Mike in the first place for his money.

LINDA: I'll admit that. He was an easy touch when it came to a pretty young face. But I never wanted a penny in the divorce settlement. I had my own life. When I win, I'm going to give all the money away. I don't want it. I don't deserve it. So I'll give it to a worthy cause that does.

RITA: Okay. At least I can tell when you're being sincere these days.

Linda handed her a tissue.

LINDA: Blow your nose and let's go and visit Mike to wish him a happy birthday. We've got a couple of hours. I'll wait for you downstairs.

They drove in silence to the cemetary stopping only to buy flowers then walked to Mike's grave together. As they stopped Reet sobbed uncontrollably, practically choking on her tears. Linda placed a reassuring arm on her back.

LINDA: I'll leave you to it. I'll be in the car. Take your time Rita.

Rita was left alone and fell to her knees onto the cold wet hard ground but she didn't care.

RITA: Why did you have to leave me Mike? Why?

She leant forward putting a hand on the grave, her face caressed by the wet grass, tears streaming down her face. An old man who had been reading a paper on the bench noticed the state of affairs, tucked his paper under his arm and went over.

MAN: Everything all right?

Rita looked up, her face covered in tears and blades of grass.

MAN: Here.

He held out a handkerchief.

MAN: It's all right. It's clean.

Rita took it and wiped her face. The man looked at the headstone.

MAN: Husband was he?

Rita wailed again, almost hyperventilating.

RITA: I wish he had been.

The man took a step forward, unsure whether to try and console her or not but decided against it so stepped back.

RITA: It's his birthday today. Mine next week. We'd made plans. We always made plans for our birthdays. Now we'll never share them together again. I wish I was dead.

MAN: You don't mean that.

RITA: Oh I do. I can't live without him. I thought I'd be able to but these past 10 months have been hell.

MAN: I hope you're not going to kill yourself.

RITA: What's it to you what I do? We never met before just now. You're not my keeper. You're not Mike.

MAN: You still have plenty to live for. You're an attractive woman-

RITA: I hope you're not trying to chat me up because this is hardly the time or place.

MAN: Of course I'm not. What I'm trying to say, very badly it would seem, is you have so much to live for.

RITA: Not without Mike.

MAN: I'm sure the last thing he'd want you to do is end it.

RITA: What do you know? He might want me to come to him then we'll always be together.

MAN: But you have everything to live for. Please don't do this.

RITA: Why should you care? You're just a stranger. I want Mike. I want to be with Mike and be with him I will.

MAN: Do you want your death on my conscience? Knowing for whatever years I've got left ahead of me I knew you were planning on doing this and did nothing to stop it?

RITA: It's my life. MINE! I don't care about your conscience. Just go away and leave me alone!

MAN: I can't let you do this.

He grabbed her arm and roughly pulled her up. She struggled free and slapped him across the face making him fall over.

RITA: How dare you! I came here to be by the grave of the man I loved for over 40 years and you've ruined it. Ruined it!

She ran off crying.

Outside Linda was finishing her 5th cigarette since she'd got back and spotted Danny, Adam and Penny approaching. Panicking they'd find Rita she quickly stubbed it out and opened the car door.

LINDA: Come to make sure Mike's still dead have you?

PENNY: What the hell are you doing here?

LINDA: Didn't I ask a question first? Rude to answer one with another. People only do that when they've got something to hide.

PENNY: Why you...

DANNY: Leave it Pen. She knows she's beaten. We're here to pay our respects to Michael as it happens seeing as today IS his birthday.

LINDA: Oh that's right. So you all trot in there, wish him happy birthday then try and make out he was barking mad for years and fleece his wife. Charming people you lot are. He'll be glad he's dead.

Danny was about to respond when Rita came running through the gates still crying.

DANNY: Rita? What are you doing here?

Linda looked round and began to worry. She quickly went to her, put her arm around her and led her to the car.

LINDA: She came to visit Ted.

DANNY: Ted?

LINDA: Her dead husband. Isn't that right Rita?

Rita looked at her then the others.

RITA: That's right. Still gets me upset after all these years.

Linda helped her into the car then went round to the drivers side.

LINDA: Enjoy your hypocrisy in there and I'll see you in court.

She got in, slammed the door, started the engine and drove off. After a few minutes she pulled over.

LINDA: Now are you going to tell me what's got you so upset? Because I can tell just by looking at you it was more than going to the grave.

RITA: There was this horrible man.

LINDA: Did he do anything to you?

RITA: Grabbed me.

LINDA: Anything else?

RITA: Didn't give him a chance. Slapped him good and hard across his miserable nosey old face.

Linda laughed.

RITA: It's not funny!

LINDA: I know it isn't. I'm sorry. Did he attack you?

RITA: Oh nothing like that. Just ruined what should have been just me and Mike that's all.

LINDA: Why?

RITA: Because I stupidly said I wanted to be with Mike and he suddenly started to order me not to do it. Even trying the emotional blackmail card asking if I wanted my death on his conscience.

LINDA: You weren't serious about killing yourself I hope.

RITA: Might have been.

LINDA: Don't you dare! I need you! Mike needs you!

RITA: Mike's dead! His body's back there!

LINDA: I know that. But there's still his family to fight and I can't do it on my own Rita. You know the way they've been trying to discredit him. They're evil and need stopping. Mike's not here any more so can't do it. I need help. I wouldn't have been able to get this far if you hadn't been there for me. Kill yourself when this is all over if you want. But can you hang on just that little bit longer?

RITA: I don't really want to kill myself. I did at that particular time. It's just been so long. I haven't been able to face going there since the funeral. All got a bit much for me. I know Mike would never forgive me if I did.

LINDA: No he wouldn't because he loved you very much and knew you were so much stronger than him.

RITA: Aren't we going to be late for court?

LINDA: (smiles) That's more like it. Let's go and get Mike's name cleared.

Meanwhile at the cemetrary Danny, Adam and Penny made their way to Mike's grave. They were surprised to see some flowers already laid there.

DANNY: Someone's been here before us.

PENNY: They had no right.

ADAM: Who do you think it was?

Danny bent down to look at the flowers.

DANNY: There is a note here but all it says is "Happy birthday darling. Miss you every day. Love you always". Hey you don't think it was that Rita do you?

PENNY: No. Surely not. What would she be doing coming to Mike's grave and leaving flowers?

DANNY: She was a friend of his.

PENNY: Not a lover though past or present. Mike told me he'd never had an affair with her. Too old he said. Why would she write a note like that?

ADAM: Maybe it was unrequited and she loved him.

PENNY: Don't be daft.

DANNY: Hold on Pen. Haggis may have a point there. She was acting very oddly before. Who was it that Linda said she'd come to see?

ADAM: Husband. Ned? Ed? Ted. That was it. Ted.

DANNY: Right. That'd be Sullivan I take it. We'll have to find his grave and see if there's any fresh flowers on it. If there aren't Rita Sullivan has some serious explaining to do.

The old man who had been trying to help Rita was still on his bench watching. He got up and went to them.

MAN: Excuse me for interrupting but I couldn't help overhearing. There was a woman who came here not long ago. Young girl. Brunette. Very pretty.

PENNY: Linda! She's got a nerve.

DANNY: And she accused us of hypocrisy. Was there anyone with her?

MAN: An older woman. Red hair. They didn't stay long.

DANNY: Did this redhead put any flowers here?

MAN: Didn't see. But neither of them were here long.

ADAM: It could have been Linda.

DANNY: Can you honestly see Linda writing words like that?

ADAM: I can actually. She did love dad.

PENNY: Yeah so much she's after every penny he had.

DANNY: Which we won't let her get her mitts on. Cheers mate. You've been a great help.

The man grunted then returned to the bench and his paper.

DANNY: So what was that Rita doing here?

ADAM: Company? Maybe they both wanted to pay their respects. Linda's become very close to Rita since she turned up last year. Rita could have been here to support her.

DANNY: From what Michael told me Linda never respected or got close to anyone or anything in her life except cash.

ADAM: It is possible they came here on the way to court. Maybe Rita told her she wanted to visit her husband's and that's why Linda was in the car. I'm only guessing mind you.

DANNY: Hm. Well we'll have to forget it for the moment. Got more important things to think about today.

PENNY: Definitely. That witch will wish she'd never shown her face once we've finished with her.

DANNY: Never a truer word spoken Pen. Once we prove beyond reasonable doubt Michael was off his rocker 5 years ago she'll have to crawl back under that stone she came from.

He casually dropped the flowers on the grave.

DANNY: Happy birthday Michael. And thanks for the inheritance once we win.

They left and returned to the car before driving to the court.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 11

Outside the courtroom Linda and Rita sat sipping tea.

LINDA: Won't be long now.

RITA: You sound as though you're looking forward to this.

LINDA: I am.

RITA: This isn't what Mike would have wanted.

LINDA: Yes it is. He wouldn't have left me what he did if he never wanted me to have it.

RITA: I still don't like it.

LINDA: So if he'd left all that to you and they tried making out he was a nutcase you'd just hand it over would you?

RITA: That's an unfair question.

LINDA: Only because he didn't. But just remind yourself of your Ted's mad family. It all boils down to people wanting something the dead didn't want them to have so will stoop to any means to get it.

RITA: I suppose when you put it that way you have a point.

LINDA: I know I have. That's why I'm here today.

She looked round.

LINDA: And that lot of greedy vultures.

DANNY: Talking about yourself again love?

LINDA: In your dreams. You know you don't stand a chance in there.

DANNY: We'll see when we emerge the winners. Hello Rita. Didn't expect to see you here. You two joined at the hip or something?

RITA: I'm here as a friend of Linda and Mike's.

DANNY: Thought you were a friend of mine too.

RITA: We've hardly said more than a couple of dozen words to each other since you came up here. I'd hardly call that friends would you?

DANNY: Well considering you're siding with the devil I'm glad we ain't love.

RITA: Don't patronise me. You may like to think you're cock of the walk but you're nothing more than a greedy chancer. Mike must have done something really awful in his life to get you as a son.

LINDA: You tell him Rita.

DANNY: You keep out of it.

LINDA: Seeing as we're up against each other in there can't really do that 'love'.

PENNY: Don't waste your breath on that trollop Danny. She's not worth it. Even Mike knew what she was like.

LINDA: What do you mean by that eh? You sad old cow. Just because you used him don't judge everyone by your own standards.

PENNY: Me use him? That's rich. Money-grabbing slut.

LINDA: Pots and kettles Penny. Or should that be Pound seeing as you see all Mike's in your eyes?

Penny was about to retaliate when the usher called the case.

LINDA: At last. As the saying goes, see you in court.

PENNY: Come on Danny.

Penny dragged a scowling Danny away with Adam lamely following behind while Linda smirked.

RITA: Penny has enough money of her own. What does she want Mike's for?

LINDA: Because she's a greedy bitch.

RITA: I always got the feeling she really loved him though.

LINDA: That type can fool anyone Rita. But not me. I know a using cow when I see one. After all I'm meant to be one myself aren't I?

She smiled at Rita.

LINDA: You can go in the public gallery if you like. I'll be okay on my own.

RITA: I can always stay.

LINDA: Thanks but you go.

RITA: To be frank I'm not sure I want to hear what they say about Mike.

Linda put her hand on Rita's reassuringly.

LINDA: Neither do I but it's something we have to do. Remember it's for the man we both loved.

RITA: (nods) Okay. I'll see you at dinner. Just don't do anything stupid to jeopardise the case.

LINDA: You can trust me Rita.

RITA:(sceptically) Hm.

Linda watched Rita walk away and sighed.

As the morning progressed the court heard from a variety of medical experts with varying opinions as to when Mike may have had the beginnings of Alzheimer's. None of them seemed to agree. Without being able to perform a post mortem it was impossible to confirm anything. After lunch more witnesses were called and Rita stormed out.

LINDA: What are you doing here?

RITA: I couldn't stand their lies. And it IS all lies. I can't believe Mike's own family could say such things.

LINDA: I told you it was.

RITA: You most certainly did.

LINDA: Still want me to compromise with them?

RITA: No. They don't deserve anything after what they've been saying in there. They're a disgrace. I felt like shouting out they're lying. I was getting so frustrated. I wish there was something I could do to put Mike's side across.

LINDA: (smiles) Yes.

Later that night Linda arrived at Danny's flat.

DANNY: Well this is a turn up. Going to give in?

LINDA: No. But I thought I'd pop round anyway. I have a proposition and one that will end all this so we can both get what we want.

DANNY: I'm listening.

LINDA: Going to let me in or do we have to discuss this on the doorstep?

Danny stepped aside. Linda strolled inand made herself comfortable.

DANNY: Well? Go on.

LINDA: I know you fancy me.

DANNY: (laughs) Is that it? Sleep with you and you'll drop it?

LINDA: No. But I know you want to sleep with me. I've seen the way you look at me. You change your testimony in my favour and I'll give you the other 50%.

DANNY: What's the catch?

LINDA: No catch I assure you. I know you don't want that wimp Mark or that useless Adam running the business with you.

DANNY: No.

LINDA: So we can do it together. Only you have to dump Leanne because I'll never play second fiddle to her. Me and the 50% or if I lose I'll continue to fight in every court possible until I win.

Linda stood and headed for the door.

LINDA: I'll leave you to think it over. Night.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 12

Leanne was out for the evening with friends which gave Danny plenty of time to think over Linda’s proposition. “Linda and I partners in Underworld and possibly partners in the bedroom? That may not be as bad as it sounded?” Danny thought to himself. It would certainly be better than scrabbling around for a small piece of the business with Adam and Mark.

Danny felt sure the court case was going against Linda. The Baldwin family had every chance of overturning the 2002 will and proving Mike had been losing his mind even back then as he would no doubt of divorced her like he originally planned. However Danny was starting to feel that in some respects he was also losing. As Linda regularly pointed out, Danny had bought 49% of a business that hadn’t been Mike’s to sell! Whether Adam and Penny liked it or not, Linda rightfully owned 50% of Underworld as Mike’s legal business partner, even before he died and without a will. The Baldwin family and Penny stood very little chance of questioning Mike’s mental state as far back as 2001. So, even if the case ruled that Linda wasn’t entitled to any of Mike’s money, possessions, the flat or anything else belonging to his estate, The Baldwin family had been warned from the start regardless of Mike’s state of mind and his 2002 will overturned, it was still likely Linda would get to keep her 50% of Underworld meaning the 50% belonging to Mike would be divided equally between Mark, Adam and Danny.

Although he liked living there, Danny didn’t really care about the Weatherfield Quays flat, he didn’t really much care about any property or money Mike had, Mark and Adam could have all of that if they really wanted. Which the way the case was going they would get it too. However Danny did care about Underworld. He had put too much time and energy into it to walk away with so little now.

Danny was brought out of his thoughts by a knock at the door. Danny went to open it and was shocked to find Viv on the doorstep.

VIV: Well aren’t you going to let your old mum in?

DANNY: (preoccupied) Oh, yeah, hey what are you doing here? You should of said you were coming, I’d of picked you up from the station?

Viv walked in shutting the door behind her but didn’t seem to want to sit down.

VIV: I’ll get straight to the point son, is that tart of yours here?

DANNY: Leanne is not a tart!

Viv glared at him

DANNY: (sighing) No, she is out for the night

VIV: That’s good because I want you to cut your losses and come back to London with me right now

DANNY: You what, and leave all this behind?

VIV: Leave all what behind Danny? From what I’ve been hearing you are going to walk away with very little

DANNY: We don’t know that?

VIV: Is it worth all this agro? Carol, Frankie and Jamie are back in London and won’t be coming back here, Warren’s in Spain and when he is finished there he is not likely to return to Weatherfield either

DANNY: I know. But I’ve fought too long and put all my hard-earned cash into this to give up now

VIV: Yes, but at what more cost? I hear this Linda bitch is a right cunning cow. Let the others fight her

DANNY: She’s not all that bad and her and I might of reached a compromise

VIV: Cut your losses while you can, come back home now with me, come back to your REAL family while you still can hold your head up high. Let this lot get on with it

DANNY: (Pleadingly) I can’t

VIV: (raising her voice) Okay then, what if the truth comes out? What if someone finds out…

DANNY: Finds out what, Harry wasn’t Mike’s brother, but merely a cousin

VIV: Yes that and…

DANNY: No ands Mum, what does all that matter now? Water under the bridge! I’m still Mike’s son! They can’t take that away from me

Viv looked down glumly and after a long pause began to speak

VIV: Oh Danny, I’m sorry you didn’t really believe that did you? You are NOT Mike’s son

DANNY: (Shocked) You’re lying

VIV: I was lying to Mike, but I am not to you

DANNY: (disbelievingly) I am Mike’s son. You said yourself you had an affair with him, and he said he had an affair with you?

VIV: I could see what Mike meant to you, you always had him as a role model and I could see how hard you had worked for Underworld. I thought I was helping? I thought you deserved some reward after all the years you put up with Harry, working with Harry and for what?

DANNY: (Pleadingly) What are you saying Mum? Of course I’m Mike’s son

Viv shook her head gently

VIV: I had an affair with Mike but it was long after you were born. It was at your cousin Muriel’s wedding

Realisation that his mother was telling the truth began to dawn for Danny and he had been living out a fantasy.

DANNY: What! You are serious aren’t you?

Viv nodded.

DANNY: Why the hell did you lie to him? What made you think you could get away with such a dreadful thing?

VIV: Well the old goat had accepted that Harry was his brother easily enough

DANNY: Well that was hardly surprising was it with Cousin Frankie’s reputation? Always cheating on Mike’s mother

VIV: Well after Harry’s death, I spoke with Mike and he was shacked up with that Penny and seemed to be getting confused about when things happened. I thought I’d push my luck and convince him you were his son. After all let’s face it Mike Baldwin must of fathered thousands. I can’t honestly believe he only has that Mark and Adam?

DANNY: I’ve had enough of this. Get out Mum, just get out I need to think. I can’t believe you have done this to me

VIV: Very well Danny, but don’t think too long. Come back to London and put this all behind you. Trust me son, it’s for the best

Viv left a crestfallen Danny. Danny had truthfully believed that he was Mike’s son. He had always looked up to his cousin Mike and admired the man as a child. Mike had given Danny his first job when just a lad at fifteen and every cunning trick Danny knew, he had learnt from Mike. In his teens Danny had felt like the son Mike then didn’t have. And Danny had day-dreamed about Mike being his real dad.

Danny had eagerly gone along with his mother’s scheme to pass him off as Mike’s nephew in 2004. To be a part of a true loving family was all Danny really wanted. A family for his sons. The extended Baldwin family in London didn’t care two hoots about one another. So when Mike had told Danny in the Autumn of 2005 he really was his father, it hadn’t taken Danny long to accept the situation. Not in his heart of hearts. He had even been secretly quite pleased.

The knowledge that Mike was his Dad, had given Danny the strength to carry on fighting Adam and Penny. Yes, at the moment he was on their side against Linda, however Danny always knew once the current battle was fought, he would be back at war with Adam and Penny. However Viv’s bombshell changed everything. What was Danny fighting for? What was there to stay in Weatherfield for? Some family Mike Baldwin’s family had turned out to be? Mike was dead, Adam was a spoilt brat who didn’t want to know and Mark was a wimp. Then there was Luscious Loathsome Linda and Lecherous Loathsome Leanne after everything they could get their hands on.

What did Danny really have left in Weatherfield now? His mother was right, his true family were in London.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[pearly queen]

This is really good - I want to know how it ends!

[RitaLittlewood]

Soon, Pearly. I thought Lane had put more up by now. I'll give her a push.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

Sorry I've not been feeling well today but will post some more Wednesday.

[Lane Kent]

Part 13

The day of the verdict of the court had arrived. Penny King had spared no cost in hiring the best legal team to fight Linda having decided Mike’s own solicitors’ were amateurs. Penny had tracked down virtually every guest who had attended Fred Elliott’s ill-fated wedding to Eve Sykes in September 2001 in order for them to testify to the breakdown of Linda and Mike’s marriage. Audrey Roberts and Ashley Peacock recounted how Mike and Linda had had a terrible fight and then she disappeared for months presumed dead by police.

Witnesses were presented to the court from further back. Harvey Reubens told about his affair with Linda while Mike had been away attending to a sick Alma and how in front of Harvey, Linda had threatened to divorce Mike if he continued to stay with his ex-wife. Harvey also said that later that Mike had hit when he found out their fling. Leanne had testified to Linda’s affair with Mark even before the Baldwin marriage. Penny had even managed to bribe Linda’s brothers Jimmy and Ryan Sykes to speak out against their sister. Danny and Adam had also given scathing testimonies. Some of it true, a lot of it lies. Charlie Stubbs had stepped forward with a damning testimony of his own in which he claimed Linda had said to him during their brief liaison shortly after Mike’s death. So the image painted to the court was that Mike and Linda had little love for one another.

In the end only two witnesses had been favourable to Linda, one had been Mark when pushed by Linda’s barrister. Under oath Mark felt pressured to speak the truth how he saw it. He talked glowingly and at length about his stepmother and how he knew she loved his Dad. Mark had even gone into details about how Linda had chosen Mike over him. No one in the court or within the Baldwin family for that matter had been surprised by this as it was by now an open secret that Mark and Linda were once more lovers and she had him wrapped around her little finger. However Penny, Danny and Adam had not been best pleased as Mark’s testimony had potential to be damaging to their case.

The other person to speak in favour of Linda, had caused more surprise. Rita Sullivan had proved a shocking character witness as a long-term “acquaintance” of Mike’s. No one knew the true nature of her relationship with Mike Baldwin, but they found it very odd that she had Linda staying in her flat and was prepared to swear under oath that Linda and Mike loved each other very much. “How would she know?” Blanche had scoffed.

As the moment of truth approached, Linda took her seat next to Rita at one side of the court

RITA: You were nearly late

LINDA: I needed a fag and you can only smoke outside these days. Won’t be long before they ban that too (she snorted).

RITA: You are looking rather pleased with yourself for someone who is just about to lose

LINDA: Me, I’ve not lost anything Reet. It’s not over until the fat lady sings

RITA: Is that meant at me young lady?

Linda shook her head

RITA: Better not be after all I’ve done for you

LINDA: Honest take a chill pill

RITA: You can’t say things like that in this day and age

LINDA: Oh can’t I? I hate all that PC nonsense particularly now they have banned me smokes.

Linda smirked while Adam, Penny, Mark and Leanne took their seats at the other side of the courtroom.

ADAM: Hold on, where’s Danny?

LEANNE: Good question

Penny looked puzzled

COURT CLERK: All rise

They all rose

COURT CLERK: Be seated

Just as the verdict was about to be read out, Danny came barging in. Leanne, Penny and Adam all looked round

JUDGE: What is the meaning of this?

DANNY: Sorry your honour, but I really have something to say. I want to change my testimony

Pointing to Adam and Penny, Danny continued

DANNY: I can’t be part of their conspiracy anymore

ADAM: (standing up) Don’t listen to this man, he is lying

JUDGE: Sit down Mr. Barlow

PENNY: (whispering) Come on sit down Adam, you’ll only get yourself in trouble. The judge has warned you before. Let Danny hang himself if he likes

JUDGE: Mr Baldwin you do realise that is quite a serious accusation which could also land yourself in trouble for contempt of court

DANNY: I realise that your honour but my conscience won’t let me sit back any longer. My kid brother and Mrs King have been manipulating this case from start to finish. All they want is my Dad’s money.

JUDGE: Mr. Baldwin why should we listen to you now. You have already given your testimony

DANNY: Honest Your Honour, they have even bribed witnesses. If you don’t listen to what I have to say now then a huge injustice will be done here today. Honestly I’m prepared to tell the truth

The judge whispered to his colleagues before re-addressing Danny some minutes later.

JUDGE: Very well Mr. Baldwin, let’s hear what you have to say, however I must warn you sternly that you are facing a custodial sentence for wasting this court’s time.

Danny re-took the stand and proceeded to tell the court how his father very much loved Linda and how he knew about the will and he knew that it was Mike’s intention for Linda to be the chief beneficiary.

DANNY: When clearing out my father’s belongings, my girlfriend and I found lots of copies of love letters Dad had written to Linda. And there were letters from Linda back. Some, as recent as a year ago! Which, was before he started losing it

QC: Where are these letters now Mr. Baldwin?

DANNY: They (pointing at Adam and Penny), I mean Mrs King and my brother Adam Barlow, made me destroy them

LEANNE: (whispering to Adam and Penny) we, never did. Rita Sullivan, there were lots of letters from her, spanning back years, but none to or from Linda.

PENNY (Glaring jealously) Rita Sullivan!

JUDGE: Silence over there. Carry on Mr. Baldwin

DANNY: There’s nothing much else to say Your Honour, other than my Dad loved Linda to his dying day. Even when his mind was completely gone. But Adam I suppose resented her as his stepmother and Penny just couldn’t deal with Dad loving someone else other than her

PENNY: (Standing up) You liar. You two faced liar

Linda giggled

PENNY: Leanne, you tell the court what you just told Adam and I, go on?

Leanne looked back and fourth between Danny and the judge before shaking her head. “I’m sorry I don’t know what Mrs. King is talking about.

JUDGE: That’s enough Mrs King, sit down

DANNY: Honestly, Your Honour. My Dad loved Linda very much.

Danny was then asked to stand down and the court adjourned until 2pm. Danny tried to make a hasty retreat so as not to be caught by any of the family but he could not escape Leanne

LEANNE: (Yelling angrily) What the hell are you playing at Danny? We were winning?

DANNY: Who exactly was winning Leanne?

LEANNE: You were winning?

Danny shook his head sadly

DANNY: I wasn’t winning Le. At best I’m going to get a third of the entire company and that is unlikely as they have told us all along Linda was entitled to the 50% she owned as a business partner. At worst they will look for a will further back. A will before even Adam was around?

LEANNE: Oh, so you are saying we were fighting a losing battle and you decided to bail out?

Danny looked thoughtful at her for a moment

DANNY: My Mum came to see me last night and tried to persuade me to give up everything and move back to London

LEANNE: That’s why you weren’t at the flat this morning and some of your clothes were gone I suppose?

Danny nodded his head

LEANNE: (angrily) You were going to bail out on me too?

DANNY: No, not you love (stroking her cheek). However Leanne I don’t give up anything without a fight. That’s not me as you should know by now

LEANNE: I don’t know what to think anymore, from where I’m standing you may well of blown everything

DANNY: No Le. Changing my testimony was my one last ditch attempt to salvage a no-win situation.

LEANNE: I still don’t see how you win anything if the court rules in favour of Linda

DANNY: Well you are just going to have to trust me

They kissed and went off to grab some lunch

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

2pm came and everyone took their seats.

TO BE CONTINUED!

[Lane Kent]

Part 14

JUDGE: This has been a very hard case as it has all been based on guesswork. How can one really know the true thoughts and wishes of another person’s mind? However this case has been exactly about that. Determining how much Michael Vernon Baldwin loved his wife Linda and determining at what point his Alzheimer’s began to manifest. Was it Michael Baldwin’s real intentions not to divorce his wife? Was it his dying wish to leave his estranged wife virtually all of his worldly goods?

The courtroom looked pensive.

JUDGE: However a decision we have had to reach based on all the evidence given. The court, hereby feel that we have no other choice but to rule that Mr. Baldwin was not thinking clearly when he made his 18th January 2006 will in favour of his son Daniel.

ADAM: Yes!

JUDGE: Any decisions made by Mr. Baldwin throughout 2005-2006 were questionable due to his declining mental state. However there is no clear evidence to suggest when his decline in health began. It was only brought to the attention of medical examiners and legal representatives in March 2006. Before then the court only have the hear-say of Mr. Adam Barlow and Mrs Penelope King.

When coming to a decision, the court has had to consider the following :-

1) Alzheimer’s can only be categorically proven upon Post Mortem. Sadly, Mr Baldwin’s body was too badly burnt from the unfortunate ambulance accident taking him to hospital, to carry out such a procedure successfully on his brain. As a result we will never know if he indeed suffered from this dreadful disease let alone prove when it actually began to manifest itself.

2) Furthermore two of Mr. Baldwin’s three sons have both stated how much their father did love his wife, Linda.

ADAM: (yelled) No! They are lying

JUDGE: I have warned you before Mr. Barlow on numerous occasions throughout this case. One more word from you young man and I’ll have no other choice but to hold you in contempt of this court.

Adam with a tear in his eye, sat back down.

JUDGE: Also the final matter that needed to be considered was that the circumstantial evidence without Daniel Baldwin’s changed statement and discarding the somewhat bitter testimonies of the many witnesses, would suggest Mr. Baldwin did indeed love his wife and intend her to have the majority of his estate. It must be remembered that no effort was made by Mr. Michael Vernon Baldwin to divorce his wife or change his will until it was obvious his own mental health declined.

Therefore this court feels it has no other choice but to uphold the 1st May 2002 will of Michael Vernon Baldwin. It also rules that the 2004 sale of 49% of the business of Underworld to one Daniel Baldwin as unlawful as it did not have the consent of Mrs. Linda Baldwin an equal business partner in Underworld for a number of years before hand.

There were gasps around the courtroom

JUDGE: However we do feel that Michael Vernon Baldwin’s estate should compensate Daniel Baldwin by paying back the sum of money he invested into the Underworld business in 2004.

Danny looked pleased at this.

JUDGE: This therefore means that regarding the business of Underworld, 10% be given to Mark Redman, 10% to Adam Barlow while the remaining 30% share of which Michael Vernon Baldwin owned in Underworld goes to his wife, Mrs Linda Baldwin. She also receives the entire contents of all his bank accounts, his flat and all other items belonging to his estate.

LEANNE: (whispering to Danny) That bitch gets to keep 80% of Underworld plus everything else

DANNY: (with a grin on his face) No Le, because she and I struck a deal

LEANNE: You what?

JUDGE: This case is now closed.

CLERK: All Rise

The judge left

RITA: (Looking at Linda) I don’t believe it, you actually did it?

Linda smiled. Then handed Rita her car keys

LINDA: Why don’t you go and wait in the car for me, I have something I need to do

Rita rolled her eyes as Linda seemed to always have something she needed to do. Meanwhile Penny was in floods of tears.

ADAM: Don’t cry Penny. We can appeal

Penny glared at Adam

PENNY: (screeching through her tears) Appeal with what? I’ve already spent too much money and time on this case. If I spend any more I’ll be bankrupt

ADAM: But we stand a good chance with an appeal. Dad didn’t love Linda and there’s no way he would want her to have 80% of the business with Mark and I just getting 10% each

PENNY: It’s over Adam accept it. Your father had four years to divorce Linda, four years to change that will. Did you not hear the judge?

ADAM: Yeah but he was losing his mind, the Alzheimer’s

PENNY: What Alzheimer’s?

With that Penny turned on her heal and ran out of the courtroom with Adam in hot pursuit calling out “what do you mean what Alzheimer’s?” Outside the court they met up with Mark, Danny and Leanne.

ADAM: (to Danny and Mark) You pair of Judas. What are you getting out of this? You sold your own father’s wishes out for greed

MARK: Well if you must know, I did it for love. Linda and I are going to be together now and live happily ever after. Okay and it does mean I’ll get to run the business with her…

DANNY: Hold on, you run the business with her?

LEANNE: (smugly) I did warn you that you couldn’t trust Linda

DANNY: Oh I can trust Linda alright. She and I have a deal. She and I are going to run the business together and be partners in …

Danny stopped

LEANNE: (Glaring at Danny) Partners in what?

Adam began to laugh “looks like he has sold you out too Leanne”

LEANNE: Shut up you brat. If you must know Danny and I are to be married. So whatever Danny has planned with Linda, includes me too. Doesn’t it?

PENNY: Oh I bet

LEANNE: (glaring at Danny) Tell them Danny?

DANNY: (looking sheepish) Sorry love, but there’s been a change of plan

LEANNE (shouting) You what?

DANNY: There’s no wedding and there’s no future for us

Adam and Penny laughed

LEANNE: (furious) You are dumping me in front of all these losers. After everything?

ADAM: I say it couldn’t of happened to a more deserving person

LEANNE: You shut up you spotted scotch egg. I wasn’t talking to you

Adam grabbed Leanne “Who you telling to shut up you gold digging backstreet tart”

Leanne slapped Adam and Adam slapped her back. Mark dragged Leanne back as she burst into tears.

MARK: You are really sick aren’t you Adam. Hitting a girl. As bad as the old man.

At that moment Linda stepped up to join them.

LEANNE (through her tears) Here comes the trollop

LINDA: Well everyone hasn’t this has been fun

DANNY: I don’t know I think the fun is about to begin. How you doing Linda love? Ready to go run that factory together?

Linda shook her head. Us run the factory together? You must be joking Danny.

DANNY: But you said..

LINDA: Haven’t you heard of a lady’s prerogative?

DANNY: Ah but you’re no lady

The group chuckled.

LINDA: If you must know Danny I’ve changed my mind. Mark’s given me his 10% so I now own 90% of Underworld. You Danny boy have nothing and are nothing.

DANNY: Why you conniving two-timing, two faced little bitch

PENNY: Oh, you just realised now have you Danny?

LINDA: Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me

DANNY: Oh I’ll hurt you alright, I’m going to kill you, you bitch

Linda laughed surveying Danny, Mark, Leanne, Adam and Penny carefully.

LINDA: Look at the lot of you. All looking down your noses at me, all thinking the worst of me, when in fact none of you are any better

PENNY: How dare you

DANNY: You double-crossed me, what did I ever do to you?

LINDA: Where do I begin Danny? Not only are you not Mike’s son, you are not even his nephew and probably not even a Baldwin!

The others gasped as Linda turned her attention to Mark and Leanne.

LINDA: Trollop am I Leanne. Well at least the only marriage I ever wrecked was my own

MARK: Okay Linda that’s enough let’s just get out of here

Linda laughed

LINDA: You think I want you Mark? You’re no better than the rest of them? I mean let’s face it, you bedded your own Dad’s fiancée. How low is that?

Linda walked up to Penny and began to stroke her cheek.

LINDA: As to you Penny dear, you can look on in mock shock, however you are no better than the others. So obsessed with Mike were you that you wanted him all for yourself in your total control, so you began poisoning him!

The others looked dismayed

LINDA: Yes that’s right everyone. Mike didn’t have Alzheimer’s at all. Penny began poisoning him. Is that right Penny.

Penny began to cry.

ADAM: Okay, so what did I do?

Linda looked at Adam carefully before answering

LINDA: Nothing! Sorry Adam, nothing personal to you, but well let’s face it, we only have a dead woman’s say-so that you were Mike’s son? However to show there are no hard feelings I’ll let you keep your little 10% of Underworld

Linda’s watch began to bleep

LINDA: Oh, is that the time. I have to run

Linda smiled smugly at the group before turning to walk away but then as an after thought she turned back and said

LINDA: Remember this, as Mike would say “don’t get mad, get even!”

With a smug smile on her face, Linda then made her way to her car where Rita was waiting for her. She left behind a broken man in Danny. He had lost everything, his family, his home, his business since coming to Weatherfield and she watched with amusement as he was arrested for contempt of court as promised by the judge.. He had now even lost Leanne who seemed to be cosying up to Mark. Penny King had been publicly humiliated. Adam’s world had come crashing down. All his hopes and dreams over. His illusions about people crushed. Then there was Mark and Leanne who gently holding hands slowly walked away.

Linda’s mission was almost complete. The Fall of the House of Baldwin left her in her wake.

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

Inside Linda’s car

LINDA: What’s that you are reading

RITA: Only the Gazette. Seems the Duke of Weatherfield is back with his young floozie

LINDA: Oh

RITA: Seems some people have it all. They are getting married and going to spend their honeymoon flitting between all his different worldwide homes. London, Tuscany, Paris, Bahamas, his Greek Island, Sydney and California before heading back to Weatherfield Hall.

Rita tossed the paper on to the back seat of Linda’s car as they sped away from the courthouse.

RITA: Anyway enough about that. We need to get back to the flat and you need to do your packing as I don’t want you in my home a moment longer.

LINDA: I’ve done it all and got my bags in the boot

RITA: I knew you would be eager to get to Weatherfield Quays, but even I didn’t think you would be packed already!

LINDA: Who said anything about living in Weatherfield Quays?

RITA: What, you not keeping that luxury flat?

LINDA: Who wants that poky little flat or that backstreet factory for that matter, when they can have London, Tuscany, Paris, Bahamas, a Greek Island, Sydney oh and you forgot a home in Perth and California?

Rita looked at Linda speechless as the penny began to drop

RITA: Oh my. YOU! All these months the press have been trying to hunt down the floo…, I mean, umm well anyway it was you! And you were living in my flat too!

Rita’s face was a picture of utter shock.

LINDA: Yes me the so called floozie. We might just get back to Weatherfield Hall sometime next year

RITA: You jammy…

Rita stopped in her tracks as she suddenly realised that Linda was driving further and further away from Weatherfield

RITA: Where are we going? This is not the way home

LINDA: That’s because you are not going home

RITA: I’m not, well where are you taking me?

LINDA: It’s a surprise

Rita muttered about hating surprises and Linda sped further and further away from the safety net of Coronation Street. Finally what seemed like an eternity to Rita, Linda pulled the car up along side a strip of private beach and there stood the most magnificent yacht.

RITA: Okay Linda I’ve had enough of this, what are you up to

LINDA: You’ll see, just get out the car.

As Rita and Linda stepped out the car they were greeted by a stout, bolding, aging man. “Bertie” Linda cried as she ran into his arms.

BERTIE: Oh, I never thought you would get here my sweetheart

The two began to kiss madly forgetting Rita was there until she let out a loud sigh. They turned to face her

BERTIE: Oh I am dreadfully sorry my dear, but where are my manners. You must be Rita Sullivan, I’ve been hearing a lot about you from a very special guest of ours. (he and Linda shared a secretive smile).

Bertie gave Rita a wink. Rita rolled her eyes.

BERTIE: I am Albert, Duke of Weatherfield. You can call me…

LINDA: (interrupting and looking very jealous) You can call him “His Grace” now enough of all of that we have things to do

BERTIE: Oh yes, I have something for you Rita

Bertie handed Rita a big brown envelope.

BERTIE: You are going to need this my dear

Rita looked puzzled as she hesitantly took the envelope

LINDA: Call it a thank you present if you like for putting up with me and my fags all these months.

RITA: You can thank me by getting out of my life

LINDA: Oh don’t worry Reet I’m going

Linda went over to Rita and gently guided her towards the yacht. “You like boats don’t ya? Come on then” she said. Rita didn’t get chance to answer as Linda pushed her towards the yacht and forced her to climb a board. Rita boarded expecting Linda to follow however when she turned round, Linda was still on the shore and the engines were starting

RITA: Well aren’t you coming

LINDA: Me, no, I got a wedding to plan and a honeymoon to go on. Besides I hate boats, all that water. Never did learn to swim

RITA: But… what about me. You can’t leave me on here. I have a shop to run

LINDA: Don’t threat Reet, you will love it. I’m sure your peasant will look after The Kabin while you are away. And who knows you might not want to come back?

Rita began to protest but it was no good. She was now aware the yacht was drifting away from the shore while Linda and Bertie waved frantically at her.

Rita protested, sighed and cried and screamed until she had little left in her. It was no good the yacht wasn’t stopping and Linda and Bertie were becoming increasingly smaller. Rita was left wondering whether this was one last revenge by Linda and perhaps she had never forgiven Rita at all for her affair with Mike - or was something else afoot?

TO BE CONTINUED!

[pearly queen]

I really like this - where's the rest?!

[Lane Kent]

Hopefully later tonight Pearly. I have to go to work tonight though so I can't promise when as a couple of things need correcting as Patsy and I controdicted each other I noticed when reading the last parts back.

Glad you have been enjoying it.

[RitaLittlewood]

Coming today I think. Not sure if it's the last 3 parts or one at a time though.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

It will be all of them

[RitaLittlewood]

Beat me to it you bugger. That's what I get for doing other things at the same time in other windows. LOL!

Yes slight contradictions but then the way it grew it's understandable.

Patsy

[Lane Kent]

Right here goes.

Part 15

Rita looked on helplessly as the land was getting further and further away. She could have killed Linda for this. She looked around and saw nothing but water as far as the eye could see and hoped Linda had a good reason for practically kidnapping her like this. She decided to put up with it, for the time being, and went for a wander around the yacht.

RITA: Empty. Who's driving the flamin thing?

She made her way back on deck and looked for any sign of life. Finally she found an old man with a long grey beard wearing sunglasses and a hat sat by a wheel.

RITA: Who are you?

MIGUEL: I am Senor Miguel Bonaparte Senora.

RITA: Bonaparte's not Spanish.

MIGUEL: My father he was French Senora.

RITA: Hm. Where's the rest of the crew?

MIGUEL: Senora?

RITA: The other crew on board. You can't be the only one surely.

MIGUEL: Si, Senora. Eet ees just you and me like lady say.

RITA: What else did 'lady' say?

MIGUEL: That you ees...

He mumbled in Spanish.

MIGUEL: Special and I to look after you.

RITA: (nervous) In what way 'look after me'?

MIGUEL: Be nice to you. Be friend. Eef you theenk what I theenk you theenk you are mistake.

RITA: I hope so.

MIGUEL: Senora I am happee weeth the woman I love. You very pretty though for old woman. I just do job for lady. Lady want you on boat for few days.

RITA: Why?

MIGUEL: (shrugs) I dun't know Senora. She just say een three day I take you somewhere.

RITA: Where?

MIGUEL: You ask lot questions.

RITA: And I get lot no answer.

MIGUEL: I dun't know Senora. That true. Lady tell me in few day. So just seet back and enjoy ride.

I'm certainly being taken for one of those, she thought.

MIGUEL: You know when I know.

Rita couldn't say a lot to that so went to her cabin and locked the door. Several hours later when night had fallen there was a knock.

MIGUEL: Deener Senora. On deck. Come or eet get cold.

Rita sighed heavily, unlocked the door and went on deck, thrown when she noticed the table set for two with candles.

RITA: What's that?

MIGUEL: We have deener.

RITA: You want dinner have it in your own cabin.

MIGUEL: I thought lady want us to be friend.

RITA: Not THAT friendly. I don't know what your game is, pal, but you're just the hired help and don't you forget it!

MIGUEL: Reet...

RITA: Don't call me that! It's Mrs Sullivan to you and don't you forget it. I'm only here under sufferance thanks to that flaming Linda. Soon as it's morning you take me back where we came from or I'll make you wish you'd never been born.

MIGUEL: Hokay hokay. I just do my job. Lady say I do thees, I do eet. Have you opened the envelope you were geeven?

RITA: (shoots him a look) How did you know about that?

MIGUEL: I know everytheeng. Eet very important. Lady not geeve you eet eef eet wasn't.

She was growing increasingly tired of his voice and wanted to throw him overboard but didn't know how to drive the boat herself. She sighed loudly and heavily, opened her bag and took the envelope out.

RITA: Do you mind? This happens to be private.

MIGUEL: I go and get you sometheeng to dreenk. You weell need it.

He vanished below deck. Rita stared at the envelope, sighed again and tore it open.

RITA: Dear Rita.

She pulled a face.

RITA: Well that's a good start.

She continued reading.

RITA: You are now the proud owner of all Mike's worldly goods. As I've got my Bertie I've got no use for them.

She pulled another face.

RITA: Well that's true.

She went on.

RITA: Mike really should have left everything to you in the first place.

She thought for a moment lost in thought, a tear rolling down her face.

RITA: We both know it was always you Mike loved and I'm sorry for being such a bitch these past few months. I hope this more than makes up for everything and Miguel is looking after you. He's a good fella. A real diamond.

She snorted.

RITA: Could've fooled me.

She heard a noise from below so read the rest in silence sinking in the chair as she absorbed the contents.

MIGUEL: Dreenk?

Tears streamed down her face as she looked up at him slowly.

RITA: How could you do this to me Mike?

MIKE: (removing fake beard) I'm sorry, sweetheart.

RITA: I thought I meant something to you. I thought you loved me. Yet here I am after all this grief. All this pain from losing you and you faked your own death all the time!

She rushed at him, screaming like a banshee, pummelling him with her fists.

RITA: How could you do that to me? How could you put me through all that? I hate you! I wish I'd never laid eyes on you! I wish you really were dead! I could just about cope with that.

Mike lost his balance and fell, hitting his head.

RITA: (yells) Get up! This isn't funny Mike. Get up!

She roughly shook him and there was no response.

RITA: Mike!

She paced up and down, glancing at him occasionally and the vast expanse of ocean as she wrung her hands.

RITA: Oh God! What have I done? What have I done? Mike!

TO BE CONTINUED!