Desperate Measures (Memories Of The Past Sequel)

[RitaLittlewood]

This was originally writen in 11 days during July and August 2002:

October 2003 in a wet and gloomy Weatherfield. Everyone was delighted Alan Bradley was finally serving time for trying to murder Rita Sullivan, and moaned about the failings of British Justice for letting him out last time after dropping the attempted murder charge. They were all celebrating in the Rovers except Rita, who couldn't face anyone, so was alone in her flat severely depressed. She hated giving evidence against him, her entire life brought out in public. She just wished he'd die then she'd finally be free of him. She thought he was, but he certainly pulled a fast one there. She was also angry with herself for being so stupid yet again where a gentle, considerate man was concerned. She hated herself for falling for his convincing lies yet again. She poured herself another drink and just sat there dwelling on her life.

Over at the Rovers, it was buzzing.

Ken: "Where's Rita, Fred?"
Fred: "No idea. I told her we'd be celebrating when he got what he deserved."
Ken: "Is she coming over?"
Fred: "She said she would, even if it were for just a few minutes."
Norris: "Excuse me. I couldn't help overhearing."
Fred: "I thought I felt a gust of wind, so guessed your ears were flapping, Norris."
Norris: "Can I help it if you have a very loud voice?"
Fred: "I only speak in a normal voice. I say, a normal voice."
Norris: "Then I can only assume you swallowed a megaphone as a child."
Fred: "Did you hear that?"
Ken: "I did."
Fred: "You're lucky I don't bar you for your slurs, Norris."
Norris: "Never mind all that."
Fred: "Eh?"
Norris: "Rita won't be coming."
Fred: "Why not? This party's for her."
Norris: "She said she doesn't feel like celebrating."
Ken: "How is she?"
Norris: "Not good. In fact, I'm worried she'll do something stupid."
Fred: "You don't think she will?"
Norris: "I don't know. She's very down."
Dev: "What was that about Rita?"
Fred: "Norris is probably exaggerating again."
Norris: "I most certainly am not! You haven't seen how she's been since the trial. I have."
Dev: "And?"
Norris: "Like I say. I'm worried she'll do something stupid."
Dev: "Has she given any hints she might?"
Norris: "No. But then, they don't usually go round announcing at such-and-such a time they've decided to do away with themselves, do they? It's always others who find them. Then it's usually too late. She's really depressed. I think this has all been too much for her."
Ken: "I can understand that. I remember how she was last time, before, during and after the trial. She had a nervous breakdown and disappeared. No one believed he was stalking her. I can understand your concern, Norris."
Dev: "I'll go round and see if I can persuade her into coming out for a while."
Norris: "You'll be wasting your time."
Dev: "We'll see."
Fred: "I'm with Norris on this one. Once Rita's set her mind on something, nowt'll change it."
Dev: "I can be very persuasive. Women are putty in my hands once I turn on the charm. Isn't that right, Deirdre?"
Deirdre: "Eh?"
Dev: "Forget it. I'll be back shortly. Okay?"
Ken: "Good luck."
Dev: "I won't need it."
Norris: "Oh, yes, you will."

Rita was still sat in the chair, bottle of vodka close at hand now because she couldn't be bothered to even get up and get it.

Outside, Dev saw her light was on and pressed her buzzer. There was no answer. He rang again and again with the same result. He was starting to get worried. He opened the letterbox and leant towards it.

Dev: "If you don't open this door, Rita, I'll break it down. Come on. We all know you're in there. Rita?"

He closed it and stepped back when he heard footsteps on the stairs. The door opened and he smiled.

Dev: "I was beginning to think Norris was right, and you'd topped yourself."
Rita: "Don't think I haven't thought of it. What do you want?"
Dev: "They're all waiting for you in the pub."
Rita: "Then they'll just have to go on waiting, won't they?"
Dev: "Do you want to talk about it?"
Rita: "Not particularly."
Dev: "It might help. I understand, you know."
Rita: "Course you do(!)"
Dev: "Remember Amy from Birmingham?"
Rita: "Oh, aye. She was a nutter too."
Dev: "And no one believed a word I said about her. I've been told how Alan stalked you in the past. I might be able to help."
Rita: "You'd better come in then."

Norris had been watching the events from the Rovers doorway. When Rita's front door closed, he went back inside.

Fred: "Well?"
Norris: "She's let him in."
Ken: "At least she's still alive."
Norris: "For the moment."
Deirdre: "Anyone'd think you can't wait for Rita to die."
Norris: "Don't be silly, Deirdre. That's the last thing I want. Someone has to keep an eye on her, just in case."
Fred: "In case of what?"
Norris: "She does decide to end it all."
Deirdre: "Maybe she just wants to be left alone."
Norris: "Of course she doesn't."
Fred: "No, Deirdre's right. If you keep pestering Rita, you'll most likely drive her to it!"
Norris: "At least it shows I care about her. Where were you lot these past few weeks?"
Fred: "We do have work to do, Norris."
Norris: "So do I. I'm running that shop single-handed from the crack of dawn until we close. But I'm still keeping a close eye on her welfare. I made the time."
Ken: "Norris is right. We should have done more for her."
Fred: "Aye, I suppose. Then maybe she wouldn't have got into this state."
Norris: "Exactly."
Fred: "We weren't strangers, you know."
Norris: "I do know that, Fred. But you all either saw her occasionally, or avoided her altogether. What must be going through her mind about those she thought of as friends only Rita knows."
Fred: "Well, let's wait and see if Dev manages to bring her over. He might be successful."
Norris: "I wouldn't count on it."

Over at Rita's, Dev couldn't help noticing the nearly empty vodka bottle by her chair."

Rita: "Drink?"
Dev: "No thanks."
Rita: "I think I'll have one."
Dev: "Do you think that's such a good idea?"
Rita: "If you're going to start lecturing me, you can leave right now."
Dev: "I have no intention of lecturing you, Rita. But drink is not the answer to problems."
Rita: "Who says I have problems?"
Dev: "I do. I can see you're suffering."
Rita: "I'm fine."
Dev: "Come to the pub then."
Rita: "I don't feel like company."
Dev: "They've gone to a lot of effort for you."
Rita: "Why me?"
Dev: "To celebrate Alan Bradley's imprisonment."
Rita: "What's there to celebrate? I'll do that only when I know he's dead. I wish they'd just forget the whole thing and leave me alone."
Dev: "They care about you, Rita, so I'm afraid you'll not be left alone."
Rita: "Where were they all when I needed them? Where were you? There was only Norris, and he's a pest."
Dev: "I can't speak for the others, but I thought you'd prefer to work things out for yourself and were probably sick of well-meaning visitors."
Rita: "Well, there was no one except Norris."
Dev: "I'm really sorry. If I'd known-"
Rita: "Oh, rubbish. We've neither of us bothered much with the other."
Dev: "No."
Rita: "So why are you concerned all of a sudden?"
Dev: "You've been through a tough time lately."
Rita: "All my own fault, I know."
Dev: "It wasn't your fault."
Rita: "I should've steered clear if only BECAUSE of the likeness to Alan."
Dev: "He took us all in, Rita. He was very convincing."
Rita: "Oh, he was always that all right."
Dev: "There's no way you could've known he was really Alan."
Rita: "I should've realised he was manipulating me again. He was always good at that. I didn't. How could I ignore the alarm bells and fall for it again? I'm so stupid. I never learn."
Dev: "We've all done it. I thought Amy was the nicest, sweetest girl I'd ever met."
Rita: "The difference is, you weren't fooled again. You never let yourself be taken in by all the lies. I did. Sometimes I wish he'd killed me the first time, or I wasn't found when I was being poisoned by the carbon monoxide."
Dev: "You don't mean that."
Rita: "Oh, I do. If I were already dead he'd never have been able to do this to me again. Why won't he leave me alone? Why has he got to be fuelled by this hatred when it was all his own fault? I'd rather be dead than go through all this."
Dev: "He's safely locked up, Rita. You can start getting your life together again."
Rita: "But, he's still ALIVE. I'll never be able to rest easy knowing he's still out there. It were fine when I thought he were dead. He hates me more than anyone'll ever understand. What if he escaped?"
Dev: "I don't think that's very likely."
Rita: "Or was released? The law's so stupid now he could be on some minute technicality."
Dev: "I suppose that is possible."
Rita: "I just can't go through all that again. He'll come after me, I know he will. He'll not stop until he's finished me off. I'm terrified, Dev. I can't cope with any of it. What sort of future have I got based on fear?"

The tears flowed and she found she couldn't stop them no matter how hard she tried. She felt a fool breaking down in front of Dev like that but had no control over them. He went over and comforted her.

Dev: "Hey, it's all right."
Rita: "I'm sorry."
Dev: "What for?"
Rita: "Acting like this."
Dev: "You've obviously been bottling things up."
Rita: "I have. I've had no one to really talk to and had to keep up appearances."
Dev: "I know how hard that can be."
Rita: "Thank you, Dev."
Dev: "For what?"
Rita: "Being so understanding."
Dev: "That's why I came. Sure you won't change your mind about going over the road?"
Rita: "I don't think so. Not yet, anyroad."
Dev: "Tomorrow?"
Rita: "I'll see. Oh, I've got your shirt wet. I'm sorry."
Dev: "Don't worry about it. I've got hundreds."
Rita: "Thought you might have."
Dev: "Now then, let's wipe those tears away."
Rita: "I feel so stupid."
Dev: "There's no need to."

He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and gently dried her face. She was so glad they'd invented waterproof mascara. When he'd finished he stuffed it back in his pocket. Rita smiled.

Dev: "That's better."
Rita: "You've cheered me up."
Dev: "Really?"
Rita: "Well, a bit."
Dev: "It's a start."
Rita: "I suppose so."
Dev: "You know so. We both know these things take time."
Rita: "Don't they just!"
Dev: "You'll be okay."
Rita: "Maybe."
Dev: "Trust me. In a few months you won't be feeling as bad as you are now."
Rita: "No. It won't go away though."
Dev: "I've often wondered why we always remember the bad things so clearly but have trouble remembering the good."
Rita: "One of the unanswered mysteries of the universe."
Dev: "I'll leave you to it. Try not to dwell on things too much."
Rita: "Not easy."
Dev: "I know. And go easy on the booze. It won't help. You'll get more depressed."
Rita: "No. We always turn to it though, don't we?"
Dev: "For some reason. I'll tell them in the pub you're having an early night, okay?"
Rita: "Okay."
Dev: "And don't worry. I'll not say a word about anything we discussed."
Rita: "Or me skriking?"
Dev: "Definitely not that. I think that's best kept between ourselves."
Rita: "Thanks."
Dev: "My pleasure. Goodnight, then."
Rita: "Goodnight, Dev."
Dev: "Don't hide away up here or you'll go off your rocker."
Rita: "I'll go off it anyway if I have to suffer Norris more than five minutes."
Dev: "Doesn't everybody? See you."

He kissed her cheek, then they ended up in a passionate embrace.


To be continued.....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 2

Later at the Rovers, it was closing time.

Norris: "Well, it looks like Rita won't be coming."
Fred: "Do you have to state the obvious, Norris?"
Norris: "Told you."
Fred: "So you did(!)"
Ken: "I wonder what happened to Dev."
Fred: "Maybe he's still trying to persuade her."
Norris: "More likely she gave him a thick ear and he's too embarrassed to come back."
Deirdre: "I don't think Rita would do that."
Norris: "Who knows what she's capable of while she's like this?"
Ken: "Well, time to go home. Goodnight, everyone."
Fred: "Goodnight, Ken. Deirdre."
Norris: "I'd better be going too."
Fred: "Goodnight, Norris."
Norris: "'Night, Fred."

Fred followed Norris to the door to lock up and breathed a sigh of relief when he'd gone. Meanwhile, Norris stopped Ken and Deirdre as they were about to go in.

Norris: "I see Rita's lights are off."
Deirdre: "She probably fancied an early night."
Norris: "I hope so. It is worrying that Dev never returned."
Ken: "I'm sure Rita's nicely tucked up in bed and fast asleep. Stop worrying so much, Norris."
Norris: "I can't help it, Ken. Maybe I should just pop over and see if she's okay."
Deirdre: "You do that and it's YOU who'll get the thick ear."
Ken: "Yes, Norris. Leave her to sleep. It's the best thing for her."
Norris: "I suppose you're right. Goodnight, then."
Ken: "Goodnight."

A few hours later, Rita woke up and put the light on. She squinted in the brightness and shielded her eyes.

Rita: "Dev?"
Dev: "Did I disturb you?"
Rita: "Yes."
Dev: "I'm sorry. I was trying to be as quiet as I could."
Rita: "I think when you swore after kicking the bed is what did for you."
Dev: "I think you're right."
Rita: "Where are you going?"
Dev: "I thought it was better if I went home."
Rita: "Just like that?"
Dev: "I didn't want to wake you."
Rita: "Dev, I'm far too old to wake up to a note saying, 'Thanks and goodbye'."
Dev: "I don't know what I was going to do."
Rita: "Talk to me for a start, rather than just skulk off. It's okay. I know you think tonight was a huge mistake."
Dev: "Yes, it was."
Rita: "Well, not to worry. I won't say anything. After all, you wouldn't want it getting out you slept with a woman my age."
Dev: "It's not like that, Rita."
Rita: "Oh, isn't it(?)"
Dev: "No."
Rita: "Then what is it like?"
Dev: "I don't regret what we did for a second, Rita. I had no idea until Norris was talking about how you might commit suicide that I felt so strongly about you. It was just the wrong time."
Rita: "What do you mean?"
Dev: "You were upset. I feel as though I've taken advantage of the situation."
Rita: "Dev, I have more sense than you give me credit for. I would've kicked you down those stairs if I thought you were trying to pull anything breathing. I may be daft, but I'm not stupid."
Dev: "I don't understand that, but I get the gist of it."
Rita: "I wouldn't have let you touch me if I didn't want you to."
Dev: "It just seems the wrong time. You were upset."
Rita: "So, on that basis, what would you have done in the morning if I hadn't woken up?"
Dev: "I hadn't thought that far ahead."
Rita: "You'd have avoided me which would've made everything perfectly clear."
Dev: "If I'd stayed away it would've been to spare your embarrassment."
Rita: "Then you wouldn't know if I was embarrassed or not."
Dev: "No."
Rita: "It's up to you what you do."
Dev: "I don't want to stop seeing you."
Rita: "Are you sure?"
Dev: "Very sure."
Rita: "What are you going home for then?"
Dev: "I think it's best. Think of the gossip if anyone sees me walking out of here in the morning."
Rita: (laughs) "You've lived round here, how long? You really don't know them very well, do you?"
Dev: "What do you mean?"
Rita: "There's no way anyone would think we've been getting up to anything improper."
Dev: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "Of course I am. They all know we're more likely to go for people more our own ages. Or younger in your case. They'd
certainly never imagine you'd go for me."
Dev: "Oh, well. In that case, I hope that bed's still warm."

The following morning Rita still felt down, but her mood had lifted slightly after the surprises of the previous night. She couldn't believe it had happened and it gave her ego a massive boost. She stood in front of the mirror doing her hair and make-up when Dev came behind, wrapped his arms around her and kissed her neck.

Dev: "How are you feeling this morning?"
Rita: "Much better than before you came round."
Dev: "I should think so too. What's the scarf round your neck for?"
Rita: "Didn't you see that enormous love bite you gave me?"
Dev: "It was too dark."
Rita: (smiles) "So it was. Dev, you do know I don't love you, don't you?"
Dev: "I'd guessed."
Rita: "So if you want to end it I'll understand."
Dev: "Do you want to?"
Rita: "I'm asking you."

He turned her to face him and put his arms around her neck.

Dev: "As long as I'm with you, I don't care about that."
Rita: "Am I cold? Do I make you feel grateful for any bit of affection?"
Dev: "What is this? Of course not. You're a very passionate woman, Rita."
Rita: "I just wondered."
Dev: "What made you say such a thing?"
Rita: "Someone said that to me in the past."
Dev: "He was obviously the wrong man then."
Rita: "You can say that again! I can't half pick them."
Dev: "You've picked the right man this time."
Rita: "Perhaps. Do you love me?"
Dev: "I'm very attracted to you."
Rita: "But you don't love me."
Dev: "I don't know. Does it matter?"
Rita: "Not really. I'd feel less guilty for a start."
Dev: "Then that's fine. A no strings relationship. Less complications."
Rita: "Definitely."
Dev: "And less heartache."
Rita: "I'll go for that."
Dev: "We'll do that then. I'd better go."
Rita: "Let's go through the shop."
Dev: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "Course. I'm dying to see the look on Norris's face when he sees you."
Dev: "Okay. When will I see you again?"
Rita: "Tonight?"
Dev: "Okay. Are we telling anyone about us?"
Rita: "What'd be the point? No one'd believe us anyway. They'd think it were April Fool's Day."
Dev: "We'll keep it our little secret then."
Rita: "I think that'd be for the best. Come on. Let's go and try to shock Norris."

Down in the shop Norris was frazzled, rushing between the till and Post Office counter. He was so pleased when Rita appeared he broke into a broad grin and went to her.

Norris: "Rita! Oh, it's so good to see you."
Rita: "I never thought you were all that bothered as long as you got your wages on time. Or is that it? You're glad I'm up so I can pay you?"
Norris: "Of course not. How are you?"
Dev: "She's doing better, thank you, Norris."
Norris: "Dev! What are you doing here?"
Rita: "He stayed the night."
Dev: "And I'm very grateful, Rita."
Rita: "My pleasure."
Norris: "We wondered what happened to you."
Dev: "Things took an unexpected turn. Sorry."
Norris: "I told you you'd not persuade her to come over."
Dev: "Yes, Norris, you most certainly did."
Rita: "I had a much better time with just Dev than I would've in a crowd of people."
Norris: "He's obviously cheered you up."
Rita: "He most certainly did."
Norris: "Are you coming back to work?"
Rita: "That's why I'm here."
Norris: "Well, whatever you did to put that smile on Rita's face, Dev, I'm very grateful."
Rita: "Not as grateful as me."
Dev: "Thanks aren't needed, Norris. I enjoyed every minute of it."
Norris: "Oh, someone needs some stamps or something. Great to see you back, Rita." (leaves)
Rita: "What did I say?"
Dev: "He wasn't the slightest bit curious as to why I was leaving at this time of day or what we'd done."
Rita: "No one will even imagine we slept together."
Dev: "I'm beginning to think you're right. See you tonight."
Rita: "Can't wait."
Dev: "Neither can I."

Rita smiled as Dev left and began thinking of the night ahead. Norris returned to her side.

Norris: "It must've been a long night."
Rita: "You could say that."
Norris: "He's put the colour back in your cheeks."
Rita: "Has he?"
Norris: "I haven't seen you so happy in weeks."
Rita: "That's probably because I haven't been. Dev did me a lot of good last night. I was glad he came round."
Norris: "I'm pleased he doesn't have a stiff neck. I thought he would."
Rita: "What?"
Norris: "From sleeping on your sofa. Or was it a chair?"
Rita: "We slept together."
Norris: "Ah."
Rita: "'Ah', what?"
Norris: "You both fell asleep on the sofa. Who put out the light?"
Rita: "Er... The bulb went."
Norris: "Very annoying."
Rita: "Yes, but we were asleep at the time. Customer, Norris. I'll put the kettle on."

To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 3

The following few weeks Rita's mind was still on Alan Bradley but Dev was a delightful distraction. She was getting out and about a bit more but was still worried about turning the corner one day and bumping into Alan. She knew the thought was completely irrational, but it just wouldn't leave her mind. She was in the shop just about to go for her dinner.

Rita: "Right then, Norris. I'll be back in an hour."
Norris: "Have a nice time."
Rita: "I'm only going to the Rovers, not the Champs Elyseé."
Norris: "You know what I mean, Rita."
Rita: "Unfortunately, I do. Oh, while I think on. How about coming over tonight? I want to thank you for all your help and support these past months."
Norris: "You don't have to do that."
Rita: "I want to. I'll cook you a nice meal. Unless you fancy a take-away in case you think I'll poison you."
Norris: "I'm sure you wouldn't do that, Rita."
Rita: "Well, I haven't killed anyone yet. It'll be nothing formal. Just a few drinks and something to eat. What do you say?"
Norris: "All right. Thank you very much, Rita."
Rita: "Good. Come about seven. I'll see you later."

Rita left and went to the Rovers leaving Norris panicking about what to wear.

Over in the pub it was mildly busy. Deirdre took Dev to one side.

Dev: "What is it, Deirdre?"
Deirdre: "That remark a few weeks back at Rita's party."
Dev: "What remark?"
Deirdre: "You don't remember?"
Dev: "I said a lot of things."
Deirdre: "Oh. Well, it doesn't matter. Forget it."
Dev: "I obviously already have."
Deirdre: "I'd better get back to Ken."
Fred: "Ah, Rita! Great to see you. Usual?"
Rita: "Please, Fred."
Dev: "I'll get that."
Rita: "Thanks."
Dev: "Don't mention it. You're looking well."
Rita: "Thanks to you."
Fred: "Here you go. Why? What did he do?"
Rita: "He listened. Unlike a lot of other people I could mention."
Dev: "And advised. Why don't you grab a seat and I'll be with you when I get my change?"
Rita: "Okay."
Fred: "Oh, sorry."

Rita went to a booth and Dev sat beside her once Fred handed over the money. He held her hand under the tables and stroked it. Fred, despite trying to serve customers, kept focusing his attention on them every time he heard them laugh.

Dev: "I still can't believe no one suspects anything's going on between us."
Rita: "Said they wouldn't."
Dev: "I hate all this secrecy."
Rita: "We agreed."
Dev: "I know."
Rita: "Look, Dev. You've been very good to me and for me. You know I don't love you and probably never will."
Dev: "It might come."
Rita: "MIGHT, being the operative word. I'm too emotionally damaged and far too afraid to let my heart rule my head again. I know if I removed the wall, you'd end up hurting me. So the wall stays up, okay?"
Dev: "Okay."
Rita: "I know it's frustrating. I'm very attracted to you, Dev. What hot-blooded woman isn't? Don't you think I'd like to hold hands or kiss in public as well?"
Dev: "I thought you were happy the way things are."
Rita: "I am. Let's just keep this between ourselves a while longer. See what happens. For all we know, it might be all over by Christmas."
Dev: "Never."
Rita: "How do you know? You've told me you were unfaithful to Geena with Deirdre."
Dev: "And you promised you wouldn't say anything."
Rita: "I won't. Geena's long gone, and Ken's been a friend nearly 32 years. I'm not going to blurt it out, you know."
Dev: "I know you won't."
Rita: "Then why think I will?"
Dev: "You know what secrets are like, Rita."
Rita: "Hmm. Still, you've both managed to keep it quiet this long. That's a good sign."
Dev: "I hope you're right. I'd better be getting back to the shop. See you tonight."
Rita: "Okay. Oh, wait a minute. Better make it later. I've got Norris coming at seven."
Dev: "A rival?"
Rita: "Naturally!"
Dev: "No wonder you were considering suicide."

Fred looked over and saw them laughing again. He hated the idea of Dev and Rita being so friendly. He knew if he'd been more supportive when she needed it they wouldn't be and Rita was still peeved with him for that. He decided to try and get things back on an even keel with her. Meanwhile Rita wiped the tears away with a finger and tried to calm herself down.

Dev: "What time then?"
Rita: "Impatient, aren't you?"
Dev: "Do you blame me?"
Rita: "Er... No. About ten?"
Dev: "As late as that?"
Rita: "I've got no idea what time I'll get rid of Norris. You know what he's like for never knowing when to leave."
Dev: "Okay. I'll try and wait until then."
Rita: "Fine."
Dev: "But I'll be counting the minutes. Let me see... Nine hours, fourteen minutes and thirty-seven seconds."
Rita: "You're mad, you."
Dev: "Mad about you, Rita."
Rita: "Now I know you're not so mad."
Dev: "See you later."
Rita: "Yes."
Dev: "And don't work too hard. You'll need all your energy for later."
Rita: "Cheeky."

He kissed her tenderly on the cheek and she closed her eyes. Then he whispered in her ear, she burst out laughing and he left. Fred decided to seize his chance and went over.

Fred: "Great to see you laughing again, Rita."
Rita: "It's great to BE laughing again, Fred."
Fred: "Mind if I join you for a minute?"
Rita: "Not at all."
Fred: "Thanks." (sits) "Look, Rita... I know things have been a bit frosty between us lately."
Rita: "None of my doing."
Fred: "No. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you."
Rita: "So you should be."
Fred: "To be honest, I just didn't know what to say."
Rita: "No one ever does."
Fred: "I didn't want to put my big foot in it and make things worse."
Rita: "Nothing could've done that."
Fred: "It didn't mean I didn't worry about you."
Rita: "I suppose not."
Fred: "You know how much you mean to me."
Rita: "Yes."
Fred: "If things had been different-"
Rita: "I'd be landlady of this place."
Fred: "Perhaps. No guarantee I'd have bought it."
Rita: "Course you would. You know a good thing when you see it."
Fred: "I do that."

He placed his hand on hers. She looked at him and swallowed hard. She pulled her hand away."

Rita: "I'd better be off."
Fred: "I didn't mean to offend you, Rita."
Rita: "You haven't, Fred. It's just that I've got Norris coming
round tonight. You know, employer/employee stuff, and I've got a lot of shopping to do."
Fred: "Rita."
Rita: "What?"
Fred: "I want to make it up to you."
Rita: "There's nothing to make up. Now, if you'll excuse me..."
Fred: "But I want to."
Rita: "Can we talk about it another time, Fred? I really do have a lot to do."
Fred: "Aye, if you like."
Rita: "I do. Thanks."
Fred: "As long as you won't go avoiding me."
Rita: "Now why would I want to do that?"
Fred: "You might."
Rita: "Fred..."
Fred: "Sorry."

He got up and let Rita out. She patted him on the chest.

Rita: "Thanks. I'll see you maybe tomorrow."

She bid a hasty retreat and once outside inhaled deeply then went to Dev's to shop.

Dev: "Rita. You know, we really must stop meeting like this. People will start talking."
Rita: "Let them."
Sunita: "What's that?"
Rita: "Haven't you heard? Hasn't he told you?"
Sunita: "Told me what?"
Rita: "He's my toyboy."
Sunita: "What?"
Rita: "Are you ashamed of me, Dev?"
Dev: "Course not."
Sunita: "You and Dev?"
Rita: "Yep."

They put their arms around each other.

Rita: "Been going on weeks, hasn't it, Dev?"
Dev: "That's right."
Sunita: "Very funny."
Rita: "Sorry?"
Sunita: "You and Dev. Thanks for the laugh, you two."
Dev: "It's true!"
Sunita: "Course it is(!) I'll go for me dinner now, okay?"
Dev: "Fine."
Sunita: "You and Rita!"

Sunita got her jacket and left laughing.

Dev: "She didn't believe us."
Rita: "What did I say?"
Dev: "I believe you now."
Rita: "Thanks."
Dev: "Couldn't keep away, huh?"
Rita: "That's right. I was drawn to your... groceries."
Dev: "Eh?"
Rita: "I came in to buy stuff, you silly beggar."
Dev: "I could always shut the shop for ten minutes."
Rita: "You wouldn't."
Dev: "Wouldn't I?"
Rita: "What about your customers?"
Dev: "Sod them."
Rita: "Deirdre?"
Dev: "Day off. It's just me and you. What do you say?"
Rita: "It's very naughty."
Dev: "Why be good all the time?"
Rita: "Well, no one's ever accused me of being an angel. Okay then."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 4

Back at the Rovers, Sunita made her way to the bar smiling.

Sunita: "Pie and an orange juice, please, Fred."
Fred: "What sort of pie?"
Sunita: "Anything."
Fred: "Okay. You've obviously had a good morning."
Sunita: "I hadn't until just now."
Fred: "Oh, aye?"
Sunita: "Dev and Rita."
Fred: "What about them?"
Sunita: "They've just pulled my leg saying they're having an affair."
Fred: "They are very close these days."
Sunita: "I know, but come on. The whole thing's ridiculous. I knew they were kidding."
Deirdre: "What did they say?"
Sunita: "The usual stuff. They weren't being serious."
Fred: "Who started it?"
Sunita: "Rita. Told me he were her toyboy."
Fred: "Typical Rita. Always likes to wind people up."
Deirdre: "I'd best be off. See you later."
Fred: "Bye, Deirdre."

Deirdre went home, but what Sunita said was on her mind so she went to see Dev. When she arrived at the shop she found the door was locked. She wished she could see in but knew she'd have to wait. She began to have her suspicions but needed proof. After far too many minutes as far as she was concerned, she heard the door unlock. She waited a bit before going in.

Deirdre: "Hi, Rita."
Rita: "Hello, Deirdre. How are you?"
Deirdre: "Fine. Forgot the milk."
Rita: "I don't mind you going first."
Deirdre: "You're all right, Rita. I have to talk to Dev about something anyway."
Rita: "Okay."

Dev rang up Rita's items as she packed them.

Dev: "That all?"
Rita: "Unless I've forgotten anything."
Dev: "That's £11.87 then, please, Rita."
Rita: "Here you go."
Dev: "Thanks. Thirteen pence change."
Rita: "Cheers. Bye."
Dev: "Don't let Norris bore you."
Rita: "I'll do my best." (leaves)
Dev: "Now, Deirdre."
Deirdre: "It's true then."
Dev: "What?"
Deirdre: "Your 'joke'."
Dev: "I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about."
Deirdre: "You and Rita."
Dev: "Oh, that. Funny, isn't it?"
Deirdre: "It would be funny if it weren't true."
Dev: "Eh?"
Deirdre: "What are you thinking of, Dev?"
Dev: "Deirdre, I really don't know what you're talking about."
Deirdre: "I know you very well, remember?"
Dev: "Not as well as you think."
Deirdre: "I've been waiting outside for ages while the door was locked."
Dev: "I was on the phone! Important business!"
Deirdre: "Stop lying to me, Dev! I waited a bit longer before coming in and who should I see?"
Dev: "Rita was in the shop when the phone rang. As soon as I knew it would be a long call, I asked her to shut the shop and wait for me to finish."
Deirdre: "Why didn't you ask her to hold the fort?"
Dev: "Because she doesn't know which buttons to press."
Deirdre: "Then she could've told any customers you were busy."
Dev: "I didn't know how long I was going to be. If the call had been a few minutes earlier, Sunita would have still been here."
Deirdre: "Don't give me that. I saw the way you looked at each other."
Dev: "I do not fancy Rita Sullivan!"
Deirdre: "Stop lying, Dev. She's older than you."
Dev: "So are you, but you weren't complaining."
Deirdre: "Well, thank you very much."
Dev: "You know what I mean."
Deirdre: "Why are you doing this, Dev?"
Dev: "Doing what?"
Deirdre: "Having an affair with Rita."
Dev: "I'm not! We were just joking. Come on, Deirdre. Do you really think Rita would be interested in me? I'm almost young enough to be her grandson for Pete's sake. Think about it."
Deirdre: "You two have become very cosy lately."
Dev: "She was practically suicidal. I helped her through it by talking and listening. You have no idea how low she was. Norris wasn't exaggerating for once."
Deirdre: "What do you know about what she went through?"
Dev: "Amy."
Deirdre: "Oh, yes. I'd forgotten about her."
Dev: "Unfortunately, I hadn't. It helped to talk to someone who understands. I know it's not exactly the same, but there are enough similarities."
Deirdre: "I suppose there are when you think about them."
Dev: "She's still nowhere near being back to her old self, but I'm helping her get there. Is there anything wrong with that?"
Deirdre: "Put it like that, no."
Dev: "Well then."
Deirdre: "All right. I'm sorry."
Dev: "So you should be. Now, do you want that milk, or not?"
Deirdre: "What? Oh, yes."

Ten o'clock arrived and Dev had preened and pampered himself all ready for Rita. He pressed the buzzer continually. The door opened.

Dev: "Couldn't wait to see me, huh?"
Rita: "Sorry?"
Dev: "I was expecting you to just buzz me in. You are impatient."
Rita: "What are you talking about?"
Dev: "You're ready for bed."
Rita: "I was IN bed."
Dev: "Ah, so it'll be all warmed up."
Rita: "For what?"
Dev: "You know what."
Rita: "Oh! I'm sorry, Dev. It completely slipped my mind."
Dev: "Aren't you going to let me in, then?"
Rita: "I'm sorry. I'm just too tired. Norris bored me to sleep. Can we see each other another time?"
Dev: "I suppose so. But there's something really important I have to discuss with you."
Rita: "Can that wait too? I can't think straight. Come over tomorrow. Or shall I come to you?"
Dev: "I'd better come here."
Rita: "Yeah. Night, Dev."
Dev: "Goodnight."

Rita closed the door and went back upstairs leaving Dev totally bewildered at her aloofness. Rita poured herself a large drink and headed back to the bedroom. She stopped in the doorway and sighed heavily as she watched Norris sleeping, then returned to the lounge closing the door behind her. She looked at herself in the mirror.

Rita: "You're a fool to yourself, Sullivan. How are you going to get out of your biggest mistake yet?"

A few hours later, Rita was woken from her drunken sleep by Norris shaking her.

Rita: "What's going on?"
Norris: "What happened, Rita? I woke up in your bed."
Rita: "Don't you remember?"
Norris: "No. I don't remember anything after that third sherry. We didn't...?"
Rita: "No, Norris. We didn't."
Norris: "Thank goodness for that."
Rita: "I'm not that repulsive, surely!"
Norris: "I-I didn't mean it like that, Rita."
Rita: "I should hope not."
Norris: "I meant, it would be very embarrassing if anything had... If we'd..."
Rita: "Slept together?"
Norris: "Yes. How could we have carried on working together? It would have been very awkward."
Rita: "I see your point."
Norris: "I don't understand how I ended up in your bed though, Rita."
Rita: "Well, you were in no fit state to cross the road, so I put you to bed."
Norris: "I see. But how come I had no..."
Rita: "Clothes on?"
Norris: "Er...yes."
Rita: "I took them off."
Norris: "What?!"
Rita: "Don't be so embarrassed, Norris. Look, it's perfectly simple. You spilt some drink down your trousers. I told you to go into the bedroom to take them off so I could clean them before it stained. You fell asleep. No need to be bashful round me, Norris. I have been round the block, you know."
Norris: "So I've heard."
Rita: "What?"
Norris: "Nothing. I'm sorry for being such a nuisance, Rita, and keeping you from your bed."
Rita: "That's all right."
Norris: "I think I'd best be going home now. Don't want any gossip in the morning."
Rita: "Good idea."
Norris: "Yes. Oh."
Rita: "What now?"
Norris: "Whatever will Emily think?"
Rita: "I'll explain everything."
Norris: "What if she doesn't believe you?"
Rita: "She WILL. Stop worrying and go."
Norris: "All right. Where's my coat?"
Rita: "In the hall."
Norris: "Right."

She followed him out and down the stairs. She opened the door to let him out.

Rita: "I'll do the papers. You just sleep off your hangover."
Norris: "Thank you, Rita. It was a lovely evening. Thank you."
Rita: "Glad you enjoyed it."
Norris: "At least, I presume it was a lovely evening."
Rita: "Goodnight, Norris."
Norris: "Oh. Goodnight, Rita."

She watched him stagger towards number 3, wanting to make sure he went in and wasn't going to bother her again. When she was satisfied she closed the door, leaned back and sighed with relief.

Rita: "That could've been VERY tricky."


To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 5

Mid-morning and Rita noticed Norris was hardly speaking and doing his best to avoid her. She waited until the shop was quiet before confronting him.

Rita: "Right, now we've hopefully got a few minutes, what is the matter with you today, Norris?"
Norris: "I don't know what you mean, Rita."
Rita: "Rubbish. You've hardly said a word since you got here and everytime I go anywhere near you, you use any excuse to get away from me."
Norris: "There's a lot to do."
Rita: "You've dusted those magazine shelves so often I'm surprised you've not rubbed the paint off. What's going on?"
Norris: "Nothing, Rita."
Rita: "Don't give me that. You're avoiding me and I want to know why."
Norris: "I'm not."
Rita: "Norris..."
Norris: "Can we just drop it, Rita? It's nothing."
Rita: "No, we can't drop it. I want to know."
Norris: "All right. It's about last night."
Rita: "What about it?"
Norris: "You lied to me."
Rita: "I did what?"
Norris: "You said we didn't do anything."
Rita: "And we didn't."
Norris: "It all came back to me after I got home."
Rita: "How long's this been going on?"
Norris: "What?"
Rita: "You having fantasies about me?"
Norris: "I don't have fantasies about you!"
Rita: "I'm pleased to hear it. But you must be imagining something."
Norris: "I remembered, Rita."
Rita: "Norris, for the last time, nothing happened."
Norris: "So you keep saying."
Rita: "Because it's the truth. Do you think I wouldn't know? Norris, if anything happened, I'd be avoiding you, believe me!"
Norris: "Then why am I so sure it did?"
Rita: "How do I know what goes on in that head of yours?"
Norris: "Maybe you've forgotten."
Rita: "Unlikely. I'm sure I'd remember THAT."
Norris: "Nothing adds up."
Rita: "Then use a calculator and stop your wishful thinking. You were in my bed ALONE. I may be screwed up but I'm not desperate."
Norris: "Thanks(!)"
Rita: "Pleasure. It's obviously the drink. I've often thought I'd done something I didn't."
Norris: "Perhaps."
Rita: "Were you asleep?"
Norris: "As a matter of fact, I was."
Rita: "There you go. It's your subconscious. Not real. Think about it."
Norris: "Hmm."

At that moment Dev walked in, saving Rita from almost dropping herself in it. She was glad since she had no idea how much longer she could keep lying.

Rita: "Morning, Dev."
Dev: "Good morning, Rita. Norris, you look dreadful."
Rita: "Hangover."
Dev: "Ahhh."
Norris: "I'll never drink again."
Dev: "We all say that, but always do."
Norris: "I'll keep to it."
Rita: "Until the next time. What can I do for you, Dev?"
Dev: "Have you got a minute? There's something I need to talk to you about."
Rita: "Sure. Can you stand up long enough till I get back, Norris?"
Norris: "I'll do my best."
Rita: "Good. I'll try not to be too long. Come this way, Dev." (leaves)
Dev: "You should try the hair of the dog."
Norris: "Not on your life. I'd rather suffer."
Dev: "Yes, but is it fair to inflict your suffering on Rita all day long?"
Norris: "Maybe I'll take another couple of paracetamol."
Dev: "Oooh, you don't want to do that, Norris. That can cause more liver damage then the booze."

Dev left him to it and went upstairs where Rita greeted him passionately.

Dev: "Guilty conscience?"
Rita: "Of course!"
Dev: "Who?"
Rita: "Can't you guess? Norris."
Dev: "No wonder he looks half-dead."
Rita: "He'll be whole-dead if he keeps going on."
Dev: "I missed you last night."
Rita: "I'm really sorry about that. I knew I'd regret asking him round."
Dev: "He can be annoying but his parents must've loved him."
Rita: "I bet his parents even rued creating him!"
Dev: "I wouldn't be surprised. Rita."
Rita: "Oooh, serious time, eh?"
Dev: "I have to talk to you."
Rita: "I thought you were."
Dev: "This is serious. I wanted to last night if you recall."
Rita: "Er...no. Go on."
Dev: "It's Deirdre. She knows."
Rita: "Knows what?"
Dev: "About us."
Rita: "How?"
Dev: "She overheard Sunita in the pub talking about what we'd said and I think she got jealous."
Rita: "Well, that's just fine!"
Dev: "I denied it."
Rita: "And?"
Dev: "It's hard to tell with Deirdre. She SEEMED to accept my explanation as to why we're so friendly."
Rita: "Which was?"
Dev: "I'm helping you get over what happened by talking."
Rita: "You did."
Dev: "I just get the feeling she's going to tackle you about it."
Rita: "Ah. There's only one thing to do then."
Dev: "What's that? Admit it?"
Rita: "No! Only Deirdre's suspicious. It would be different if it were the entire street."
Dev: "What then?"
Rita: "One of us is going to have to do a bit of two-timing to throw her off the scent."
Dev: "I think she'll get even more suspicious if I suddenly turn up with someone."
Rita: "True. She'll see through that straight away. So, as she's not said anything to me yet, it'll have to be me."
Dev: "I don't like it."
Rita: "Don't worry."
Dev: "I do. Do you have someone in mind?"
Rita: "Oh, yes. A much more likely combination than you and me."
Dev: "Will she believe it?"
Rita: "Course she will. She knows he's fancied me for years."
Dev: "I don't blame him."
Rita: "I just hope HE falls for it. I don't want to use him, but it looks like it's the only way."
Dev: "There is another."
Rita: "We've discussed that. Not until we know where we're going."
Dev: "I'll try not to get jealous."
Rita: "No need to be."
Dev: "Who is it?"
Rita: "Does it matter?"
Dev: "I'd like to know who it is rather than have it in my face when I least expect it."
Rita: "Fred."
Dev: "Fred Elliott?!"
Rita: "The ideal choice when you think about it."
Dev: "What if he's not interested?"
Rita: "He will be."
Dev: "Do you love him, Rita?"
Rita: "Don't be daft. It'll only be temporary to get Deirdre off our backs. Okay?"
Dev: "Okay."
Rita: "You'd better go before even Norris starts wondering what's keeping me."
Dev: "See you later?"
Rita: "I'll let you know. I've got to start working on Fred so it may take some time."
Dev: "Two nights without seeing you. I don't know how I'll cope with it all."
Rita: "Go on, get going."
Dev: "Be careful."
Rita: "I always am. Well, nearly always."

Dev kissed her goodbye and left. Rita stood there a while before going to the phone and dialled.

Rita: "Hello, Fred. It's Rita. What you doing tonight?"

Later that evening in the Rovers, Fred entered the bar looking smart in his suit and cravat.

Vera: "Eh, look at you."
Fred: "Like it?"
Vera: "Very smart. Been in court, have yer?"
Fred: "No, I have not!"
Vera: "I thought they might have finally caught you for watering the drinks."
Fred: "I don't water the drinks!"
Vera: "Ah, well you would say that."
Dev: "Looks more like he's got a date, Vera. Is that Right, Fred?"
Fred: "Dead right, Dev."
Dev: "Anyone we know?"
Fred: "The fair Rita. I'll see you all later."
Dev: "Have fun."
Fred: "I fully intend to." (leaves)
Vera: "Rita Sullivan? I thought she wanted nowt to do with him."
Dev: "It would seem not."
Vera: "She must be getting desperate then."
Ashley: "Hey, he's a good catch is my dad."
Vera: "You would say that. Hope you've got a black suit handy."
Ashley: "Why?"
Vera: "Well, she's already buried two husbands. Not to mention Alan Bradley."
Ken: "Alan wasn't dead."
Vera: "Oh aye, that's right. Forgot about that."
Dev: "Rita hasn't."
Ashley: "Besides, no one's said they'll be getting wed, Vera."
Vera: "Give her time. She'll hook him. You see if she doesn't."
Dev: "What's that supposed to mean?"
Vera: "Well, he's just her type."
Ken: "And what's that?"
Vera: "Loaded."
Ashley: "You don't know what you're talking about."
Vera: "I know more about her than you. You mark my words. She'll have him down that aisle faster than you can say, 'joint account'.

Dev began to get worried and hoped Rita was planning no such thing. Though it crossed his mind that perhaps that was the only reason she was interested in him. Deirdre interrupted his thoughts.

Dev: "Deirdre."
Deirdre: "Fred and Rita?"
Dev: "Seems so."
Deirdre: "Bit of a coincidence, in't it?"
Dev: "What is?"
Deirdre: "That the day after I confront you about your relationship with her, Fred's now suddenly flavour of the month."
Dev: "It could've been going on some time."
Deirdre: "I doubt it. She made it perfectly clear years ago she wasn't interested in him."
Dev: "Can't she change her mind? It is supposed to be a woman's prerogative, isn't it?"
Deirdre: "Still seems a bit fishy to me."
Dev: "What Rita does in her private life is nothing to do with either of us."
Deirdre: "What if Vera's right and she does marry him?"
Dev: "Good luck to her. She deserves some happiness, don't you think?"

Deirdre walked away, but was determined not to let it drop. She could see Dev had been rattled when Vera mentioned the possibility of Rita marrying Fred.
--------------------------------
Rita: "I'm glad you could come, Fred."
Fred: "I'm glad you called. I hadn't seen you since yesterday dinner and thought... Well, you know what I thought."
Rita: "Yes. I've been very busy. I weren't avoiding you."
Fred: "I'm glad about that."
Rita: "I shouldn't really be angry with anyone for not being supportive. It was just the mood I was in."
Fred: "Am I forgiven, then?"
Rita: "Of course you are. I wouldn't have asked you over otherwise."
Fred: "And I'm very grateful. I'd hate us to fall out, Rita."
Rita: "I'd hate that too."
Fred: "You know I've always had a soft spot for you."
Rita: "And I you."
Fred: "I keep thinking of what might have been. Daft, eh?"
Rita: "Not really."
Fred: "If only things had been different."
Rita: "They still might be."
Fred: "Eh?"
Rita: "I know you still hold a torch for me, Fred."
Fred: "Says who?"
Rita: "You mean, you don't?"
Fred: "Well... How did you know? I thought I had it well hidden."
Rita: "You do, but betrayed yourself yesterday."
Fred: "Oh."
Rita: "Why?"
Fred: "Well... It's daft really. You'll only laugh and say I'm a stupid old fool."
Rita: "Not necessarily."
Fred: "It were seeing you with Dev."
Rita: "Dev?"
Fred: "You were having such a great time. I was jealous."
Rita: "Oh, Fred."
Fred: "I thought I'd got over you, but I hadn't."
Rita: "Good."
Fred: "Good?"
Rita: "Aye. Fred, I want to tell you something."
Fred: "Go on."
Rita: "Before it was always the wrong time, you know? I wasn't looking for any sort of relationship. But, well..."
Fred: "You are now?"
Rita: "I'm ready for one. I've been through a tough twenty years, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Call me soppy if you will, but you're that light."
Fred: "Oh, Rita. You don't know how happy you've made me."
Rita: "That's all that matters, isn't it?"

He kissed then hugged her tightly, eyes closed and smiling. Rita kept her eyes open and wasn't smiling, wondering what the hell she was doing.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 6

December arrived and Rita sank into depression again. Her mind was full of the twentieth anniversary of Len's death and the previous year when it turned out Alan was alive with that cable round her throat. Her life was a complete mess. She couldn't believe her actions over the past two months. She was still seeing Fred but refused to sleep with him, and Dev because he made her feel wanted. She wondered what was wrong with her and how she could have come to this. She washed down the rest of the pills with the vodka and closed her eyes...

Downstairs in the shop, Norris was under pressure and wondered if Rita was ever going to show her face to help out. Fred came in, too cheery for his liking.

Fred: "Afternoon, Norris."
Norris: "Hello, Fred."
Fred: "Where's Rita?"
Norris: "Still upstairs. She's been there all day. It's very inconsiderate of her. If she was not going to come to work, she could have let me know."
Fred: "Shall I go up and see if there's anything wrong?"
Norris: "You can try."
Fred: "I'll give it a go."

He pushed past the hoard of hungry schoolchildren and went upstairs. He knocked the door but got no response. He started calling and pounding, which annoyed Norris."

Norris: "Do you have to make so much noise?"
Fred: "She's not answering."
Norris: "I gathered that."
Fred: "Call her."
Norris: "What?"
Fred: "See if she answers the phone."
Norris: "All right."

He dialled her number and it just rang. They looked at each other.

Fred: "Get Dev."
Norris: "What for?"
Fred: "We'll have to break the door down."
Norris: "I've got a shopful of people."
Fred: "Get rid of them and close it!"
Norris: "Rita won't thank me."
Fred: "She might not be in any position to object."
Norris: "What do you mean?"
Fred: "What do you think?"
Norris: "Oh."
Fred: "Well, don't just stand there!"

Norris did as ordered, praying Rita had just been struck by flu or something simple. He raced across the road and burst through the door. He knew he couldn't say too much, so tried to work out what to tell Dev.

Sunita: "Careful, Norris. You nearly had the door off."
Norris: "I'm sorry. Where's Dev?"
Sunita: "He's not here."
Norris: "When will he be back?"
Sunita: "He's not coming in today. He's on his way to Birmingham."
Norris: "Oh, no. Ring him. Get him back."
Sunita: "What for?"
Norris: "Er..."
Sunita: "Is it important?"
Norris: "Very. He's needed badly."
Sunita: "Well..."
Norris: "Can't you give me his number then I could tell him?"
Sunita: "I'm not sure. Can I help at all?"
Norris: "No. It has to be Dev. I wouldn't as if it wasn't wasn't urgent."
Sunita: "Okay, then. If you go through to the back, you'll find his mobile number by the phone."
Norris: "Thank you, Sunita."

Back outside Rita's door, Fred was getting anxious. Norris had been gone far too long. Finally he heard the shop door open.

Fred: "Where's Dev?"
Norris: "Near Stoke."
Fred: "What?"
Norris: "He was on his way to Birmingham. He's coming back now though."
Fred: "And a fat lot of use that'll be. Well, there's only one thing left to do, Norris. We'll have to break down Rita's door ourselves."
Norris: "Rita won't like that."
Fred: "As she's not answering anything, she'll just have to lump it."
Norris: "She's got a shocking temper."
Fred: "I know. Eeee, I do love fiery women. Best bit's the making up after."
Norris: "What if she throws something at us?"
Fred: "Then at least we'll know she's all right. Are you going to stay down there all day?"
Norris: "The door's hard. I have tender joints."
Fred: "So does my shop, and you don't hear them complaining. Get up here and stop being so pathetic. I'm not exactly in the best condition to do this either, you know. That's why I asked you to get Dev."
Norris: "TOLD me to get Dev."
Fred: "What difference does it make? Come on."

After about ten attempts, the door opened and they both flew into the wall.

Norris: "Ow!"
Fred: "Maybe Rita should get a balsawood one like the Barlows."

They rubbed their arms and made their way inside. They were shocked to see Rita asleep in the chair surrounded by empty bottles of pills and a vodka bottle. They raced to her.

Fred: "Rita? Rita? Come on, love."
Norris: "Is she...?"
Fred: "No. Get an ambulance. Rita? It's Fred. Open your eyes, please."
Norris: "They're on their way."
Fred: "Aye, and she could be dead by the time they get here."
Norris: "They said to try and get her walking."
Fred: "How can she walk when she's unconscious?"
Norris: "I don't know. They said to do it. It's supposed to try and bring her round. They say we must try and keep her awake."
Fred: "Oh, well. Give us a hand to get her on her feet then."
Norris: "More aches and pains. I hope she appreciates all the trouble we're going to."
Fred: "She'll not be in any position to, if she doesn't wake up."

They took an arm each and hauled her up, placing an arm around their necks, then began to drag her around the room.

Norris: "I didn't think she'd be this heavy."
Fred: "It's the relaxed muscles."
Norris: "I wish she'd move her feet. My back's killing me."
Fred: "And that lot's killing Rita, but I know what you mean."
Norris: "Maybe we should slap her."
Fred: "We'll do no such thing!"
Norris: "No, I mean gentle slaps, like she'd fainted."
Fred: "I suppose anything's worth a try. I'll hold her up while you have a go."

Norris removed her arm and Fred held her up by the waist. Norris was hesitant.

Fred: "What are you doing?"
Norris: "I don't like the thought of hitting her."
Fred: "It were your idea."
Norris: "I know."
Fred: "Then get on with it."

Norris lifted her head and worked up to doing the deed. He slapped her lightly on both cheeks then stepped back.

Norris: "It's made no difference."
Fred: "Of course it won't if you use your hands like a feather duster. Oooh, I'll have a go. Here."

He handed Rita over as though she were a rag doll which took Norris by surprise and he fell to the floor winded, with Rita draped across him.

Norris: "Get her off!"
Fred: "All right. Keep your hair on."
Norris: "She weighs a ton."
Fred: "Not normally."
Norris: "I can't breathe."
Fred: "Maybe not such a bad thing. Joke."
Norris: "Not funny."

Fred grabbed her securely around the waist again and pulled her up. Norris pushed himself up and held his ribs.

Fred: "What's up now?"
Norris: "I think she's broken something."
Fred: "Don't be daft. Now, cop hold and don't drop her again."
Norris: "I'll do my best."
Fred: "Ready?"
Norris: "As I'll ever be, I suppose."

Fred handed her over again and Norris felt his legs failing under the weight.

Norris: "Get a move on."
Fred: "Just a minute."
Norris: "Another minute and I'll be flat on my back again."
Fred: "Oh, stop moaning."

Fred now held her head and patted her across both cheeks several times."

Norris: "That didn't work either."
Fred: "I'll try a bit harder. Rita, come on. Wake up."

He slapped her with a bit more force and was getting frustrated. He clenched his fist. Norris was horrified.

Norris: "You wouldn't."
Fred: "I feel like it, but no. Still, it might work."
Norris: "Don't you dare."
Fred: "Why won't she wake up?"
Norris: "Well, we can hardly ask her, can we?"
Fred: "Let's try that walking again."
Norris: "What's the point, if it doesn't work?"
Fred: "Don't be such a pessimist, Norris. Come on. Give half of her back to me."

So they dragged her up and down the room again for several minutes. Fred stopped suddenly.

Norris: "What's wrong?"
Fred: "It's the ambulance. At last! I'll go and let them in."
Norris: "Fred!"

He let her go and rushed to the door. Rita fell onto the sofa taking Norris with her and trapping his leg under her.

Norris: "You'd better live, Rita so I can always remind you of this day."

Rita was taken to hospital and Fred went with her. He told a protesting Norris to stay behind so he could tell Dev what happened, but was under strict instructions not to say a word about why she was taken away to anyone else. He watched the ambulance drive off then returned to the flat to tidy everything up. He was almost done when he spotted three envelopes by the wedding photo of Rita and Ted addressed to Dev, Fred and himself. He immediately recognised them to be suicide notes and was in two minds about opening him, though he was itching to know what she'd written to Fred and Dev. He decided to, since it looked very likely she wouldn't survive. He sat in the chair, opened it and was shocked by its contents. She had
confessed they had, in fact, slept together, was very apologetic for lying about it, and explained it was an enormous mistake she'd rather forget about, and was sure he wanted to as well. Tears filled his eyes as he thought about how close she was to dying. He carefully folded the other envelopes and slipped them into his pocket, deciding only to hand them over if Rita didn't make it.

Over at Weatherfield General, Fred was praying. He'd finally got Rita to be part of his life and he didn't know what he'd do if he lost her. It felt like he'd been waiting hours when in reality it was just over half an hour. The doctor came over to him.

Doctor: "Mr Sullivan?"
Fred: "Elliott. Mr Sullivan died years ago."
Doctor: "Ah. I believe you came in with Mrs Sullivan."
Fred: "I found her. How is she?"
Doctor: "Are you very close?"
Fred: "We've known each other years.
Doctor, is she...?": "No. She's stable, but she's not out of the woods yet."
Fred: "What are her chances?"
Doctor: "I'm afraid I can't say. But, from the amount she took, I'd say she really wanted to die and as quickly as possible."
Fred: "I don't understand it. I know she were really depressed until a few months ago. She's been fine since then. Not quite back to her old self, but close to it."
Doctor: "The slightest thing can trigger a relapse, Mr Elliott. Though people suffering depression can also be very good at hiding it in public. They make light of things or turn them into jokes."
Fred: "Rita's always done that."
Doctor: "There's obviously a major problem. If Mrs Sullivan comes through this, I think she should talk to someone."
Fred: "A psychiatrist, do you mean?"
Doctor: "It's nothing to be ashamed of. Not these days."
Fred: "Maybe not, but Rita won't see one. I'll tell you that for nowt."
Doctor: "Perhaps you'll be able to persuade her."
Fred: "She'll not listen to me. She sorts herself out does Rita."
Doctor: "Well, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it."
Fred: "Can I see her?"
Doctor: "Of course. We'll be moving her into intensive care as soon as a bed becomes available. She's on a ventilator at the moment."
Fred: "What?"
Doctor: "Nothing to worry about. It's only to help her breathe easier.
Fred: "She is breathing on her own, is she?"
Doctor: "Yes, but not very well. Follow me."

Fred followed the doctor and was visibly shocked to see Rita so pale, surrounded by noisy machines.

Doctor: "Ignore the equipment. That's all perfectly normal."
Fred: "She doesn't look at all well, does she?"
Doctor: "If she has a strong disposition, she should pull through."
Fred: "What if she doesn't want to?"
Doctor: "Think postitive."
Fred: "Is she?"

Back in Coronation Street, Norris was just shutting up before going to the hospital. He was getting increasingly worried as he'd not heard from Fred. The door opened on him.

Norris: "We're shut. Oh, it's you, Dev."
Dev: "I've just got back. How's Rita?"
Norris: "I've no idea. Fred went with her in the ambulance but he's not phoned or anything."
Dev: "That's a good sign, isn't it?"
Norris: "I wish I knew. He told me to wait for you here, but I was about to get a taxi and go and find out."
Dev: "I'll give you a lift."
Norris: "That's very kind. Thank you."
Dev: "Don't mention it. What have you told people?"
Norris: "Fred said I shouldn't tell anyone the truth."
Dev: "Very sensible. Rita wouldn't want this getting out."
Norris: "So I've told people she's had an accident."
Dev: "I'll say the same if I'm asked."
Norris: "I'll get my coat."

Over at the hospital, Fred was holding Rita's hand, still praying she'd pull through. He thought he'd seen her at her worst, but nothing prepared him for this. The sounds of various machines went on around him but he couldn't hear them. His attention was completely focused on Rita. He stroked her face.

Fred: "Why did you do it, Rita? I thought everything was going fine. If you had a problem, why didn't you talk to me? I don't know what I'd do if you die. Please, Rita. You've got to pull through. You've got to fight."
Dev: "Fred."
Fred: "Dev. Norris."
Norris: "Has she woken up yet?"
Fred: "No."
Dev: "What did the doctor say?"
Fred: "Not much. It's up to her. If she doesn't want to live, she won't."
Dev: "I don't understand. I talked to her yesterday and she seemed fine."
Fred: "She did. The doctor thinks it was a front."
Dev: "I hate feeling so helpless. Why did she do it? Did she leave a note?"
Norris: "I never saw one when I cleaned everything away. Maybe it was the spur of the moment."
Dev: "Rita's not like that. She thinks about things and plans them to the last detail."
Norris: "Maybe I've just not found anything yet. I didn't stay in the flat long.
Dev: "Could it have been an accident?"
Fred: "I'd like to believe she never meant to, but there were all different drugs she'd taken."
Dev: "Wanting to do the job properly."
Fred: "Looks that way."
Dev: "You don't mind if we stay a while, do you?"
Fred: "No. I'd be glad of the company."

They sat there in silence all waiting for Rita to wake up. The peace was broken by an alarm and the medical staff rushed in.

Fred: "What's going on?"
Nurse: "Can you all leave, please."
Norris: "Is she going to be all right?"
Nurse: "Please, sir."
Dev: " Come on, Fred. Norris. Best leave them to it."

They reluctantly went outside to wait.

Fred: "Oh, Rita. Please be all right. You mustn't die."


To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 7

The following week, Fred was sat alone in Rita's living room. He was totally drained after a very difficult week. He looked at the picture of her and Ted and sighed. He was glad in a way he didn't have to go to the hospital anymore, but wasn't looking forward to the time ahead. The door opened and he stood.

Fred: "Hello, Dev."
Dev: "How are you today, Fred?"
Fred: "Tired. It's been a long week."
Dev: "Yes. It's nearly over now."
Fred: "I'll be glad to get a decent's night sleep again. I've forgotten what it's like."
Dev: "I know what you mean. Any sign of them yet?"
Fred: "No. I've been dreading this."
Dev: "Everything will be fine. You're not alone. Me and Norris know what you're going through."
Fred: "Aye. I'm glad about that."

Dev heard something outside and went to see."

Dev: "They're here."
Fred: "Time to put on the front."
Dev: "There's no shame in showing your feelings, Fred. I'm sure Rita wouldn't like it if you came over as unfeeling."
Fred: "Well, let's get it over with then. Rita, it's so good to have you back. Sit down."
Rita: "Thank you, Fred. I didn't expect to see you here."
Fred: "Where else would I be when you're coming home?"
Rita: "It's very much appreciated. You can smile, you know. This is a homecoming, not a funeral."
Fred: "It may very well have been."
Dev: "Fred."
Rita: "It's all right, Dev. He's only speaking the truth. I know how close I came to waking up in a box. Well, so to speak."
Dev: "Now, you've got to get your strength back."
Rita: "Yes."
Fred: "And not do owt stupid again."
Rita: "No."
Dev: "And that's where we come in."
Rita: "Oh?"
Fred: "Yes. We've discussed it, and have decided to take it in turns looking after you."
Rita: "Checking up, you mean."
Fred: "No, we don't. You're not to lift a finger until you feel stronger. Each of us will stay a day and a night with you."
Rita: "We?"
Dev: "Me, Fred and Norris."
Rita: "Norris? Please, spare me that, or I'll have a relapse."
Fred: "We've sorted that. His shifts only start when the shop's closed and then it won't be overnight. Five hours at most."
Rita: "That's bad enough."
Dev: "Pretend you're asleep. That should fool him."
Rita: "I'll do my best. I'm tired, so think I'll go to bed."
Fred: "Okay, Rita, love. Dev's doing the first day, so I'll see you tomorrow."
Rita: "And what time will you be coming to babysit?"
Fred: "Don't be like that, or I'll throw you over my knee and burp you."
Rita: "I'd like to see you try."
Fred: "I might just surprise you, and do it."
Rita: "There's more chance of me bungee-jumping."
Fred: "I'll see you tomorrow then, Rita. Look after her, Dev."
Dev: "You can bank on it. You get into bed, Rita, and I'll bring you some tea when I've seen Fred out."
Rita: "Okay." (leaves)
Dev: "What do you think?"
Fred: "She's trying too hard to be cheerful."
Dev: "I thought I was imagining it. She really needs us now."
Fred: "I won't let her down. See you, Dev."
Dev: "Bye, Fred."

Rita got herself undressed and climbed into bed. She'd not been looking forward to facing Fred, Dev or Norris after what she wrote in the suicide notes. It bothered her no one had mentioned it and had noticed they weren't where she'd left them. There was a knock at the door.

Rita: "Come in, Dev."
Dev: "Brought your tea."
Rita: "Thanks."
Dev: "Aw, you're decent."
Rita: "I'm tired. I'll probably have a sleep after this."
Dev: "Don't worry. I'll keep my distance until you're ready."
Rita: "Thanks. I appreciate it."
Dev: "Rita."
Rita: "Yes?"
Dev: "Was it an accident, or did you mean to do it?"
Rita: "Why? What do you mean?"
Dev: "Well, there was no note, so I don't know."
Rita: "I couldn't be bothered to write one."
Dev: "So, it was deliberate?"
Rita: "Did I want to die? Yes."
Dev: "Why? I thought we'd sorted all that."
Rita: "We hadn't. Too many bad memories at the same time. They overwhelmed me. I'm okay now though."
Dev: "Are you?"
Rita: "Yes."
Dev: "I'll leave you to sleep. Call if you want anything."
Rita: "I will."

He kissed her and left. She felt low and hadn't the energy to even pick the mug up. She slid down the bed and lay staring at the ceiling.

Meanwhile at the Rovers it was quiet which pleased Fred as he couldn't face a crowd.

Fred: "Not working today, Kenneth?"
Ken: "I'm trying to write an article, but have writer's block."
Fred: "Don't they say if you get that you're wasting your time, so should try summat else?"
Ken: "Something like that. How's Rita? She's coming home today, isn't she?"
Fred: "Aye. She's back now and gone straight to bed. She's exhausted."
Ken: "I'm not surprised. What did you say happened to her?"
Fred: "She slipped in the kitchen and hit her head."
Ken: "I'm glad it was nothing serious. It must worry her though. Things like that when she lives on her own."
Fred: "What do you mean?"
Ken: "Not being found. Look how close it was with the carbon monoxide."
Fred: "Aye. She really needs someone to look after her all the time. It surprises me she's still single."
Ken: "Maybe it's her choice. She let Alec Gilroy and Anthony Stephens go."
Fred: "Hmm. Mind, neither were Rita's type though. Too selfish by half."
Ken: "I can't speak for Anthony, but I agree about Alec. Is she up to visitors?"
Fred: "Not yet. She needs to recover a bit more before facing people."
Ken: "Okay."
Fred: "I'll let you know when she's ready."
Ken: "Thanks, Fred."

Several days later, Rita was still in her funk, but hid it well around Fred, Norris and Dev, so they were convinced she was
improving. She couldn't stop wondering what happened to those notes and knew she couldn't ask otherwise they'd know she wrote them. She was sick of their mollycoddling even though their hearts were in the right place. She was sick of pretending things were better and had no idea how much longer she could keep it up before they realised. They were also careful not to say the wrong thing, which made her angry. She decided the only thing to get them to go away was not to
lie around in bed any longer. She pushed the covers back, dressed, put her face on and went into the lounge.

Norris: "What are you doing up and dressed?"
Rita: "I thought it was time to get up. If I stayed there any longer, I'd have probably got DVT, then I would be dead. Would you like that?"
Norris: "Don't be ridiculous, Rita."
Rita: "Well, then. It's better if I'm more active. Anyway, what are you doing here? I thought Fred was smothering me till you closed up."
Norris: "He is, but I wanted to talk to you."
Rita: "Where is Fred?"
Norris: "Keeping an eye on the shop."
Rita: "Okay, Norris. Out with it. You've got your serious face on, so I've obviously done something you disapprove of again."
Norris: "Yes and no."
Rita: "What's that supposed to mean? I'm not in the mood for riddles."

He put his hand into his trouser pocket and pulled out some envelopes. Rita's heart sank. He handed them to her.

Rita: "I see. You had them all the time."
Norris: "I thought it was best to keep them safe."
Rita: "Hmm."
Norris: "I was going to give them to Fred and Dev if..."
Rita: "I snuffed it."
Norris: "Please don't say things like that, Rita."
Rita: "Why not? If you'd said it, I'd have lamped you one. Well, they don't look as if they've been steamed open."
Norris: "Do you really think I could do such a thing?"
Rita: "Wouldn't put it past you."
Norris: "They're private, Rita."
Rita: "That's never stopped you before. There's only two."
Norris: "Yes."
Rita: "Ah. So, I take it you opened yours."
Norris: "That's what I want to talk to you about."
Rita: "I see."

She dropped the envelopes on the table and sat down, preparing herself for the interrogation. Norris sat opposite, leaning forward.

Rita: "So, you know. You knew all along, and I lied."
Norris: "Yes."
Rita: "I'm not proud of it, you know."
Norris: "Neither am I."
Rita: "You're not?"
Norris: "No. I thought maybe you were lying because you imagined I had designs on you."
Rita: "And you don't?"
Norris: "I like you, Rita. Just not in that way."
Rita: "Thank goodness for that."
Norris: "We both had too much to drink."
Rita: "I'll second that."
Norris: "And it was a mistake."
Rita: "I'm glad you see it that way. To be truthful, Norris, I also lied in case you thought I were after you."
Norris: "That never even crossed my mind."
Rita: "Didn't it? That's good. So, can we forget it now and get back to the way things were before?"
Norris: "I'd like that very much."
Rita: "So would I. I'm glad we've cleared the air."
Norris: "I'll go and relieve Fred now. You come back to work when you're ready."
Rita: "I will. Bye, Norris, and thanks."
Norris: "Bye."

Rita put her head in her hands and sighed. Then she suddenly remembered Fred would be there soon so got up, picked up the letters, went to the bathroom, tore them into tiny pieces and flushed them down the toilet. She was annoyed that some bits hadn't gone. She heard the door and Fred call her. She flushed again and went to join him. She smiled.

Fred: "Eeee, that's a good sight. I say, a good sight. I thought Norris were lying when he said you were dressed."
Rita: "For once he wasn't."
Fred: "I take it you're feeling much better."
Rita: "I am."
Fred: "That's grand. I didn't like seeing you like that."
Rita: "Well, I'm getting there slowly. And looking decent, with me slap on's a start."
Fred: "Are you hungry?"
Rita: "Not much."
Fred: "You've hardly eaten since you came home."
Rita: "I didn't have the strength. Besides, my waistline's not complaining."
Fred: "You're a fine figure of a woman, Rita. Always have been as long as I've known you."
Rita: "Flatterer."
Fred: "It's true. So, will you have something, then? I can make you something light? Scrambled egg on toast, or something."
Rita: "What will you do if I said no?"
Fred: "Now, Rita. You know I don't like taking no for an answer."
Rita: "You give up eventually."
Fred: "Not in this cae, I won't."
Rita: "Okay, I give in. Scrambled egg it is."
Fred: "Champion. You make yourself comfy while I go and fix it."
Rita: "Not on your life, Fred Elliott. I'll make it and you can make yourself comfy."
Fred: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "I'm not useless yet, you know. I'll do some for you while I'm at it."
Fred: "Thanks."
Rita: "Why don't you put the telly on while you're waiting?"
Fred: "Nowt on."
Rita: "Read the text, then."
Fred: "Okay."
Rita: "Won't be long."

She went to the kitchen, placed her hands on the sink and lowered her head. She realised she couldn't keep the facade up much more without cracking, but had no idea how she would sort her life out. She wanted to be alone, but was too scared to be. Dev was becoming demanding and possessive. He kept hinting they should go public which was the last thing she wanted. She preferred, and enjoyed the secrecy. Of knowing something no one else did. Deirdre still hadn't said anything to her for which she was grateful and assumed she'd forgotten all about it. Then there was Fred. She looked up and saw the block of knives. She had a very strong urge to pick one up and try again, but they'd only smother her more. She sighed heavily, rubbed her forehead with the heel of her hand and went to prepare the food.
When it was dished up, she carried the plates into the lounge and looked at the table.

Rita: "You could've laid the table, Fred."
Fred: "Eh? Oh, sorry, Rita. I were engrossed in something." (gets up)
Rita: "Thought you said there was nothing on."
Fred: "Ah, well, this was most interesting. It were a documentary about lobsters."
Rita: "Lobsters?"
Fred: "Aye. they must be pretty hard-up these days. There you go."
Rita: "Thanks."

She put the plates down, sat and indicated for Fred to do the same.

Fred: "Eee, this looks grand. Where's your toast?"
Rita: "Didn't fancy any. Back to this programme. Lobsters are pretty hard-up?"
Fred: "No. Whoever makes them documentaries. Most things have been done, haven't they?"
Rita: "Suppose they have. Well, tuck in. Oh, I get it. You're waiting for me to start. Okay, Fred."

She put a forkful in her mouth and smiled when she swallowed. Fred beamed and ate his. She didn't want it, but knew she had to eat it all like a child who wouldn't get any pudding if there was any left. Afterwards, Fred reclined and patted his stomach.

Fred: "That were very tasty, Rita."
Rita: "Thanks. Arsenic not kicking in yet?"
Fred: (laughs) "You'd make someone a smashing wife, you know."
Rita: "No one wants me."
Fred: "I wouldn't say that."
Rita: "Name one."
Fred: "I wouldn't say no to being with you for the rest of my life."
Rita: "Fred Elliott. Are you proposing to me?"
Fred: "Aye, I suppose I am."
Rita: "Bit ham-fisted, in't it?"
Fred: "I'm no good at these things, Rita."
Rita: "You want me to marry you?"
Fred: "Yes."
Rita: "Why?"
Fred: "You know how I've always felt about you, Rita. Your attenpted suicide scared me. I thought you were really going to die and I couldn't cope with that. I want to take care of you, and protect you. I love you."
Rita: "I don't know what to say."
Fred: "Yes, would be a start."
Rita: "I don't know, Fred. It's come as such a shock. I've got used to my life as it is. I'll need to think about it."
Fred: "Oh."
Rita: "Don't be like that."
Fred: "Usually when women say they need to think, it's a no."
Rita: "I can't answer that, except to say I do mean think."
Fred: "Sorry."
Rita: "Don't be. I'll let you know when I've decided."

To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 8

Two days later when it was Fred's turn to keep his beady eye on her again, she was ready to give her answer. Fred could tell by the look on her face she was going to turn him down.

Fred: "It's okay, Rita."
Rita: "What?"
Fred: "I can see it's a no."
Rita: "Fred..."
Fred: "It was stupid of me to ask."
Rita: "No, it wasn't. Look-"

She was interrupted by the phone.

Rita: "Excuse me."

She went to answer it and nearly dropped the receiver as though it burnt. She slammed it down.

Fred: "Everything all right?"
Rita: "Fine. Just someone selling double glazing."
Fred: "You look shaken."
Rita: "I'm okay. They just annoy me. Phoning up without a thought. I hate them. They should be banned."
Fred: "Like circulars."
Rita: "Flipping heck, Fred. You're showing your age. It's called junk mail now, you know."
Fred: "I know. But you're okay?"
Rita: "Yes. Now, where were we?"
Fred: "You were turning me down."
Rita: "Was I?"
Fred: "You looked as though you were."
Rita: "Looks can be deceptive."
Fred: "You're accepting?"
Rita: "Yes, Fred. I will marry you."
Fred: "You're not pulling my leg?"
Rita: "I'd have a job."
Fred: "Oh, Rita! You don't know how happy you've made me."

He went to her and hugged her tightly, completely over the moon, while Rita was trying to work out what to tell Dev. He released her.

Fred: "I can't wait to tell everyone, Rita."
Rita: "Can we keep it quiet for a bit?"
Fred: "What for? I want to tell the entire world."
Rita: "I know you do. Just for a few days."
Fred: "It won't be easy. I'm busting."
Rita: "Better put you on a diet then."
Fred: "If not saying anything is what you want, that's what you'll get."
Rita: "Thank you, Fred."
Fred: "I love you very much, Rita. You know that, don't you?"
Rita: "I should, since you saved my life."
Fred: "I hope you never agreed because you think you owe me something."
Rita: "I thought you knew me better than that."
Fred: "It's just that I haven't heard you mention love."
Rita: "Course I love you. I wouldn't marry anyone otherwise."
Fred: "You won't regret it, I promise."
Rita: "I know I won't."
Fred: "My track record since Sybil died hasn't been marvellous."
Rita: "Neither's mine. And that's all my life!"
Fred: "You'll have free meat and booze for life."
Rita: "Lovely. I won't be landlady though."
Fred: "You won't be at my side behind the bar?"
Rita: "No. It's not for me. I'm very happy running The Kabin."
Fred: "That's understandable."
Rita: "Just don't go hiring a leggy, twenty-something blonde to run things or I'll divorce you."
Fred: "What would I want with one of them when I have the one woman I've finally got?"
Rita: "Glad to hear it."
Fred: "Right, when are we going shopping then?"
Rita: "Shopping?"
Fred: "The ring!"
Rita: "Oh. How about now?"
Fred: "This minute?"
Rita: "It's what you want."
Fred: "Aye, it is. Let's go. Pick whatever you want. Price is no object."
Rita: "What if I see something for a million quid?"
Fred: "Not very likely."
Rita: "How do you know?"
Fred: "We're going to Manchester, not Hatton Garden."
Rita: "Shame. I was looking forward to trying something on so heavy, it'd break my finger."
Fred: "Maybe your next husband will get you one."
Rita: "Oh, no. This is definitely my LAST marriage."
Fred: "I should think so too. Get your coat."

In the shop, Norris was busy serving Vera.

Norris: "Is that all?"
Vera: "I think so. Where's Fred? He's hardly at the Rovers these days."
Fred: "I'm here, Vera."
Vera: "You're spending a lot of time round here lately."
Rita: "And I'm very grateful he, Norris and Dev have been such a help."
Vera: "Hello, Rita. How are you feeling?"
Rita: "Much better, thanks."
Emily: "It's good to see you. We were all very worried about you."
Rita: "Oh, aye?"
Vera: "Head better, is it?"
Rita: "Much."
Norris: "You off out, then?"
Rita: "I have me coat on, so I must be."
Vera: "Where are you going? Anywhere nice?"
Fred: "Just into Manchester."
Rita: "Fred thinks I need a bit of retail therapy."
Vera: "I could do with some of that."
Rita: "Why don't you go then?"
Vera: "No money."
Rita: "Ah. Window shopping's no fun, is it?"
Vera: "You can say that again."
Rita: "You always see something you haven't got enough money for."
Vera: "I do that all the time!"
Emily: "Well, I hope you have a lovely time."
Rita: "I will if I come back laden with bags. See yer."
Vera: "Bye."
Emily: "Bye."

Fred followed Rita to the door, held it open and followed her out. Vera sneered.

Vera: "Retail therapy my foot."
Emily: "Whatever do you mean?"
Vera: "There's only one shop she'll be going to and that's a jewellers."
Norris: "Don't be so ridiculous."
Vera: "I'm telling you. She's got that look in her eye. Before the week's out, they'll be announcing their wedding."
Emily: "Rita and Fred are just good friends, Vera."
Vera: "Oh, come on, Emily. How many people say that when there's really something going on? Could've been going on years for all we know."
Emily: "Now I know you're talking nonsense. If you'll excuse me, I'd like to pay for this magazine."
Vera: "Well, believe what you like. You'll see I'm right." (leaves)
Emily: "Oooh, that woman. Where does she get her ludicrous ideas from?"
Norris: "Search me."

Vera decided to go to the corner shop to see what Dev knew about Rita's plans.

Sunita: "Can I help you, Vera?"
Vera: "Dev about, is he?"
Sunita: "Not today."
Vera: "Oh."
Deirdre: "Can we help at all?"
Vera: "Well, since you know how friendly he is with Rita these days, maybe you can."
Deirdre: "What's Rita got to do with anything?"
Vera: "I was wondering if he knew her plans with Fred?"
Sunita: "What plans are these?"
Vera: "Wedding plans."
Deirdre: "Rita and Fred are getting married?"
Vera: "Everyone says they're only friends."
Sunita: "Perhaps they are."
Deirdre: "Are you still going on about this, Vera?"
Vera: "No one else seems to have noticed how she's got her hooks into him."
Sunita: "Probably because she hasn't."
Deirdre: "I'm sure if it were true, Vera, Dev would know and told us. Rita and Fred wouldn't keep it secret. You know what Fred's like. He'd not be able to keep it quiet."
Vera: "What if she told him to?"
Deirdre: "I don't think even Rita can do that."
Vera: "Well, I thought I'd ask."

Vera left and Sunita and Deirdre laughed.

In a Manchester jewellers, Rita was looking at rings. She suddenly felt panic and wanted to run. She looked at Fred who was so happy and proud and forced a smile. Her head was telling her not to do this, but she found she was going along with it all and couldn't stop. She thought about the phone call and resolved to go ahead regardless. When it came to trying rings on, the grief of losing Ted came flooding back. Her eyes filled with the memories, but she mumbled an apology to him and removed the ones he gave her eleven-and-a-half years earlier, then put them on her other hand. She had to show she was committed to Fred even though she was screaming inside.

The following day, Dev popped into the shop before starting his shift looking after Rita.

Dev: "Good morning, ladies."
Sunita: "Morning, Dev. Didn'e expect to see you here."
Deirdre: "Yeah. Thought you'd go straight to Rita's."
Dev: "I wanted to let you know I was taking a bunch of flowers so you wouldn't think they'd been stolen."
Sunita: "Okay."
Deirdre: "Don't forget to ask if what Vera's saying is true."
Dev: "About what?"
Sunita: "She's still saying Fred and Rita are planning to get married."
Deirdre: "Well, to be fair, she actually said Rita's got her hooks into him."
Dev: "Will she never give up?"
Deirdre: "Probably not. Is it true?"
Dev: "I don't know. I shouldn't think so. Not even Rita would want to saddle herself with Fred. I'll see you later."

Dev left and Deirdre smirked, knowing her own suspicions about him and Rita were looking more likely to be more true than Vera's.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 9

At Rita's, she got up from the table and opened the door to Dev. He kissed her and handed over the flowers.

Rita: "Thank you, Dev. Come in."
Dev: "Thanks. How are you today? You're looking better."
Rita: "I feel better. Go through."

Dev went into the lounge and stopped dead when he saw Fred having breakfast. Rita was embarrassed and noticed Dev's reaction. She sensed things weren't going to be pleasant when they were alone.

Dev: "I didn't expect to see you here, Fred."
Fred: "I'm just going."

He finished his tea, grabbed his jacket, kissed Rita and left. Dev was furious.

Dev: "Did he stay the night, or just come for breakfast?"
Rita: "Does it matter?"
Dev: "Of course it matters, Rita! I take it he did."
Rita: "It's possible he slept on the sofa, you know. After all, wasn't that the whole idea? You and him keeping an eye on me nearly all day, and all night?"
Dev: "Of course. Sorry. It's just that with Vera gossiping and seeing him, it slipped my mind."
Rita: "What's Vera been saying?"
Dev: "It's nonsense."
Rita: "What?"
Dev: "It's about you and Fred."
Rita: "Oh, yes? Well?"
Dev: "That you're getting married. I mean, it's preposterous. Rita? Rita?"

She couldn't face him. He took her hand and spotted the new ring. He felt as though his heart had been ripped out.

Dev: "It's true! I don't believe it! How could you, Rita?"
Rita: "I'm sorry."
Dev: "Not as sorry as I am. What about us?"
Rita: "Nothing has changed."
Dev: "Can you hear yourself? This ring changes everything, Rita!"
Rita: "Dev, please-"
Dev: "How long's it been going on?"
Rita: "What?"
Dev: "How long?"
Rita: "You know how long. You agreed to it to stop Deirdre's suspicions."
Dev: "You said it was temporary."
Rita: "It was!"
Dev: "Looks pretty permanant from where I'm standing. You should've agreed to us coming out in public."
Rita: "I told you why."
Dev: "I know what you told me, Rita. Somehow after this I can't believe another word you say."
Rita: "I needed more time!"
Dev: "How much more? A week? A month? Ten years?"
Rita: "Don't be stupid. Besides, there's no guarantee we'll even get married."
Dev: "Then stop wasting time and marry me instead."
Rita: "What?"
Dev: "I want you to be my wife. I love you, Rita, and I won't let you go."
Rita: "Don't be ridiculous. You don't love me."
Dev: "I do."
Rita: "Since when?"
Dev: "Always."
Rita: "More like, since now. This is a no strings relationship, remember?"
Dev: "I know what I said, but that was to please you."
Rita: "To please me?!"
Dev: "I couldn't tell you how I really felt after you said you don't love me, could I?"
Rita: "Why not? I was honest with you."
Dev: "Do you love Fred?"
Rita: "That's none of your business."
Dev: "It IS my business, Rita. If you carry on with this, I'll tell everyone."
Rita: "And I'll deny it."
Dev: "I'm sure Fred would be very interested to know."
Rita: "You would do that, wouldn't you? You'd hurt a decent man out of spite."
Dev: "I won't let you do it."
Rita: "You can't stop me."
Dev: "I'll do my best."
Rita: "Then that's the end of us."
Dev: "Him or me, Rita? You can't have both."
Rita: "Then I choose him. He'll believe what I say over anything you do. And for you information, Dev, yes, I do love him. And yes, he stayed the night, but not on the sofa."
Dev: "You're making a big mistake."
Rita: "I'm a big girl now."
Dev: "I don't believe you love him."
Rita: "Believe what you like. I'm past caring."
Dev: "This isn't the end of it."
Rita: "Oh, yes, it is. Me and you are finished. You finished it with your jealousy and possessiveness. Goodbye, Dev."
Dev: "Rita-"
Rita: "GOODBYE, Dev. You can see yourself out."

She gave the flowers back to him and went into the bedroom where she locked the door, waiting to hear him leave.

Dev: "I'm not giving up without a fight, Rita! Do you hear me? I won't let you marry Fred!"

Rita stayed silent, her heart beating rapidly, afraid he'd start banging on the door or try to kick it down. She held her breath, wondering what he'd do and let it out when she heard the door close and his heavy footsteps recede. She closed her eyes, but they snapped open as a thought struck her. She went to the phone and dialled.

Rita: "Hello, Fred, love. Can you come over? I've just had a terrible row with Dev.

When Dev got outside, he threw the flowers down and hit the wall in anger. He saw Fred coming out of the pub towards him.

Fred: "You still here, Dev? I thought you had a row with Rita."
Dev: "I did. Did she tell you what it was about?"
Fred: "No. That's what I want to find out."
Dev: "Shall I tell you?"
Fred: "I wish someone would."
Dev: "You won't like it."
Fred: "I don't know what it is yet. I thought you two were friends."
Dev: "We were more than friends."
Fred: "Eh? What do you mean by that?"
Dev: "You know exactly what I mean."
Fred: "Don't be so ridiculous. You and Rita?"
Dev: "Me and Rita. It started when I came to get her to go to the party."
Fred: "Rubbish."
Dev: "She's made a right fool of you, mate."
Fred: "What are you talking about?"
Dev: "She's using you to allay Deirdre's suspicions. Didn't you think it strange Rita should suddenly be interested in you?"
Fred: "Now you come to mention it, I were wondering."
Dev: "Well, now you know. And the row was because she said she'll marry you when she knows how much we mean to each other."
Fred: "I see. So, she doesn't love me?"
Dev: "I'm afraid not. I'm really sorry you had to find out this way, Fred. Truly, I am."
Fred: "Seems I've been made a mug of again by a woman I thought I could trust."
Dev: "Are you going to confront her?"
Fred: "Should I?"
Dev: "It's up to you. Mind you, she didn't want anyone to know, so is bound to deny it."
Fred: "Aye. I need to think about this. I'll see you later."

Dev watched him return to the pub and rubbed his grazed hand smiling.

Meanwhile Rita was watching events unfold from the window. She turned away wondering what to do next. She decided not to go over immediately in case Fred got suspicious and realised why she was there. She sat and watched the clock, working out what she was going to say to Fred and hoped he'd believe her. She needed him far more than he would ever know.
Nearly 40 minutes later the phone rang. She answered it and immediately slammed it down. She felt like a large drink, but
decided she needed a clear head. She grabbed her coat and bag, and left for the Rovers via the ginnell as she didn't want Dev to see her walking down the street and bother her. She went through the gate and knocked on the door. After what seemed like forever, it opened.

Fred: "Rita."
Rita: "Are you all right?"
Fred: "Fine. Why?"
Rita: "I thought you were coming over."
Fred: "Aye. Summat came up."
Rita: "Nothing serious, I hope."
Fred: "Nowt I can't handle."
Rita: "Are you going to let me in, or do I drown in this downpour?"
Fred: "Since you're here, I suppose you'd better get in the dry."

He stepped back and she entered. He took her sodden coat and hung it up. She followed him into the back room.

Fred: "Shall I get you a towel?"
Rita: "It's okay. Are you sure you're all right?"
Fred: "Not really. I heard something I didn't like very much."
Rita: "What was that? Or shouldn't I ask?"
Fred: "Dev told me what you fell out over."
Rita: "And what was that?"
Fred: "You've taken me for a right fool, Rita."
Rita: "I'd never do that."
Fred: "Why didn't you tell me?"
Rita: "Tell you what?"
Fred: "About you and him."
Rita: "Me and who?"
Fred: "Dev."
Rita: (laughs) "Me and Dev? You aren't serious, Fred."
Fred: "He said you'd deny it."
Rita: "You don't believe all this?"
Fred: "He said you wanted it kept quiet."
Rita: "Blimey, Fred. If anyone's taken you for a fool, it's him. Me and Dev? I've heard some daft things in my time, but never that daft. There has never been anything between us except friendship."
Fred: "He said you were using me."
Rita: "Fred, I know what it's like to be used. I'd never do that to anyone. Of course it was all quiet. There was nothing to go public about. Me and Dev. Do I look that desperate? He fancies himself too much. Can you imagine the fights we'd have over a simple mirror? I love you. I have too much respect for you, and myself, to do anything as ludicrous as that."
Fred: "What did he say it for then?"
Rita: "How would I know?"
Fred: "What did you row about?"
Rita: "Okay. Cards on the table. He's become a bit possessive. He sees himself as my protector. He's told me things he's never told anyone. Perhaps he's worried in case I let something slip. He doesn't want me to marry you because be doesn't want me to marry anyone. He's worried you'll hurt me and send me over the edge again. He was even saying you only wanted me for my money!"
Fred: "That's not true."
Rita: "We both know that. So we argued. To be honest, Fred, I'm glad we've fallen out. He was suffocating me with his nursemaid routine, but I didn't want to offend him and seem ungrateful."
Fred: "Why are you with me, Rita? Why agree to marry me? You've rejected me in the past."
Rita: "The past is past, Fred. You know that. People change. Feelings change. I'm with you and agreed to marry you because I want to. No ulterior motive. You're a good man. A man I was looking for all these years, but couldn't see further than my nose. Heck, I'd known Ted twenty years before falling in love with him. I'm a bit slow on the uptake at times, but I get there in the end. I love you, Fred. I want to be your wife. But, I'll understand if you don't want me to be now."
Fred: "I don't know. I need time."
Rita: "Let me know what you decide. Ha!"
Fred: "What?"
Rita: "A couple of days ago, this conversation was the other way round. I'll leave you to it."

She started to go, stopped, looked at her hand, removed the ring, placed it on the table and left, grabbing her coat en route. She could kill Dev for ruining everything. The rain hadn't eased as she made her way back up the ginnell.

Fred: "Rita! Rita!"

She stopped and turned to see Fred running towards her. He tried to catch his breath once he caught up.

Rita: "Where's your coat?"
Fred: "Back there."
Rita: "You'll get pneumonia dressed like that."
Fred: "I don't care. I can't let you go, Rita."
Rita: "What about what Dev said?"
Fred: "I still don't know about that."
Rita: "At least you're honest."
Fred: "I love you. I want to marry you. I've lost you far too many times and I refuse to again."
Rita: "Are you sure about this?"
Fred: "Never been more sure in my life. Well? Do you want to put this back on your finger, or not?"

She looked at the ring in his open palm, picked it up and slid it on. They both smiled and kissed very passionately.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 10

The penultimate week in January 2004 and a week to go until Rita and Fred's big day. Vera had crowed how they should've listened to her when their plans were announced to a packed pub. Christmas and New Year had been practically uneventful. Dev was staying away from Rita, while every-so-often she would still receive disturbing phone calls.
It was nearly closing time in the Kabin. Rita was busy cashing up while Norris was getting ready to go home. The door opened. Rita looked up and dropped the money bag.

Rita: "Mavis!"
Mavis: "Hello, Rita."

She went and greeted her old friend. Norris hovered out the back, unsure whether to show his face or not.

Rita: "Mavis, Mavis, Mavis."
Mavis: "Have you been eating radishes again?"
Rita: "Watch it, Wilton. I do the jokes, remember?"
Mavis: "I've been trying to forget some of your jokes."
Rita: "Only some?"
Mavis: "They're not easy to erase from my mind."
Rita: "Always said you had a mucky mind."
Mavis: "You don't change."
Rita: "And be boring? No, thanks. Eeee, Mavis. I'm so glad you were able to come."
Mavis: "I could hardly miss your wedding, could I, Rita?"
Rita: "I suppose not."
Mavis: "I haven't missed one yet."
Rita: "Cheeky. I wasn't expecting you till Thursday. What are you doing here?"
Mavis: "I'll go back, if you want."
Rita: "Course I don't. I'm glad to see you."
Mavis: "I got the chance to come earlier, and took it."
Rita: "I haven't made up your bed yet."
Mavis: "That's all right. I'll give you a hand."
Rita: "Norris, look who's here."
Mavis: "Norris?"
Norris: "Hello, Mavis. Long time, no see."
Mavis: "Not long enough."
Norris: "You've still got me all wrong, Mavis. I respected Dirk and liked him very much. Well, apart from the fact he introduced me to Angela. Still, one mistake I can forgive."
Mavis: "Very magnanimous of you, I'm sure(!)"
Norris: "I'll be off now, Rita."
Rita: "Bye, Norris."
Norris: "I'll do the early papers if you like. Give you a chance to spend some time with Mavis."
Rita: "Thanks, Norris."
Norris: "Don't mention it, Rita. Nice to see you again, Mavis."
Mavis: "Goodbye."

Norris left. Mavis was indignant, while Rita pulled a face.

Later that evening, Rita and Mavis were chatting about old times and new times up in the flat. Mavis could sense something wasn't quite right with her old friend.

Mavis: "You know, Rita. I'm really surprised you decided to marry Fred."
Rita: "Why?"
Mavis: "You made it perfectly clear you weren't interested."
Rita: "Things change. It took you and Derek long enough to get hitched."
Mavis: "We'd been friends a very long time."
Rita: "So have me and Fred."
Mavis: "Not like that. Come on, Rita. What's really behind all this?"
Rita: "I don't now what you mean."
Mavis: "I know you too well."
Rita: "I never knew I were that obvious."
Mavis: "You don't love him, do you?"
Rita: "Course I do."
Mavis: "Rita, this is me you're talking to. We spent so much time together down the years I can read you like a book."
Rita: "Could never fool you, could I, Wilton?"
Mavis: "You tried often enough."
Rita: "Ever thought of going to the library to read something else?"
Mavis: "No. If I'd ever gone on, 'Mastermind', my specialist subject would be the life of Rita Littlewood-Fairclough-Sullivan."
Rita: "I'm not sure I like someone else knowing almost as much about me as I do."
Mavis: "Stop avoiding the subject."
Rita: "I'm not."
Mavis: "You always do, Rita. So?"
Rita: (sighs) You won't shut up, will you?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "All right, Mavis. What was the question again?"
Mavis: "You know that already."
Rita: "Yes. No, I don't love Fred."
Mavis: "What are you doing this for then?"
Rita: "You have no idea how discovering Alan was still alive has affected me. I even tried suicide last month."
Mavis: "What? Oh, Rita."
Rita: "Well, it didn't work. Came pretty close though."
Mavis: "Why didn't you tell me?"
Rita: "I didn't want to worry you."
Mavis: "I'm more worried now you're doing the wrong thing."
Rita: "I'm not."
Mavis: "How do you know?"
Rita: "Since I tried to top meself, I've come to realise how much Fred cares about me. I always knew he did, but this is different. He's been very good to me. He'll take care of me."
Mavis: "Does he know you don't love him?"
Rita: "What do you think? There was a bit of trouble a month ago, and he came very close to calling it off, but I sorted that. I wouldn't have blamed him, but he said he couldn't let me go again."
Mavis: "What happened?"
Rita: "Oh, nothing really. Someone causing trouble, that's all."
Mavis: "I see. Okay, Rita. I've listened to your reasons for marrying Fred. Now perhaps you'll tell me the real ones."
Rita: "They ARE the real ones."
Mavis: "There's more to it and you know it. Other people have helped you through difficulties in the past and you've not said you'll marry them."
Rita: "Already married."
Mavis: "Don't be smart, Rita."
Rita: "I wasn't trying to be."
Mavis: "Well?"
Rita: "You're a wise woman, Wilton. Well, apart from marrying Derek. But we all do stupid things at times."
Mavis: "The voice of experience who never learns from her past mistakes."
Rita: "That was plain when I fell for Alan's lies all over again. Mavis, I'm going to tell you something and I want you to swear you'll keep it to yourself."
Mavis: "You should be able to trust me by now, Rita."
Rita: "Of course I do. But for all I know, you might have turned into Cartmel's answer to Hilda Ogden."
Mavis: "Oh, dear. It seems you've discovered my secret."
Rita: "Not difficult, considering the end of a roller's peeping out from under your wig."
Mavis: "Incidentally, Rita. Just how many shades of red have you had?"
Rita: "Who knows? I lost count after 1984."
Mavis: "So, what are you going to tell me?"
Rita: "I was intending to turn Fred down."
Mavis: "What made you change your mind?"
Rita: "A phone call."
Mavis: "I don't understand."
Rita: "I was about to say no when the phone rang."
Mavis: "I still don't see what this has got to do with anything."
Rita: "It were Alan. And it wasn't the last. I just slam it down on him."
Mavis: "How do you know it was him?"
Rita: "I'd know that evil swine's voice anywhere."
Mavis: "What does he say?"
Rita: "Just, 'hello'."
Mavis: "Is that all?"
Rita: "It's enough."
Mavis: "Have you told the police?"
Rita: "What's the point? Just hearing him brought it all back. I'm terrified to be on my own. So, I changed my mind and agreed to marry Fred. Be honest, Mavis. Do you think I'm doing the wrong thing?"
Mavis: "Why are you afraid to be alone?"
Rita: "It makes me vulnerable. If he was released, I'd be an easier target. I can't go through it all again. I need to feel safe."
Mavis: "Is there any likelihood he will be let out?"
Rita: "I don't know. He's going for an appeal though. I've heard if that fails, he'll go to the European Court and you know how stupid that lot are. I don't want to be alone anymore. I didn't like it before, but got used to it. But ever since he came back after all those years..."
Mavis: "I can't even begin to imagine what you're going through, Rita. I do understand your reasons for doing this."
Rita: "What? No hearts and flowers lecture?"
Mavis: "Not this time. I'm more worldly-wise these days. Besides, I do feel partly to blame for everything that happened where Alan's concerned."
Rita: "How do you work that out?"
Mavis: "I did encourage you to swallow your pride and go and see him."
Rita: "Mavis, you weren't the only one. I'm the one who went and begged him to leave that Carole Burns and come back to me. No one forced me. I wanted him back. Jenny wanted us back together as one big, happy family. I needed him. So, if anyone's to blame, it's down to me. I was the fool, inviting him to walk all over me again."
Mavis: "Doesn't stop me feeling guilty."
Rita: "You've nothing to feel guilty about. What's that look for?"
Mavis: "What if things don't work out with Fred?"
Rita: "I'm trying not to think about that. I will do my best to be a good wife to him and make it work. I'm very fond of Fred, though he really deserves someone better than me."
Mavis: "He obviously doesn't think so."
Rita: "Not after his last failures. I intend to be loyal, loving and caring. I've made my own mistakes."
Mavis: "Like Alec Gilroy?"
Rita: "DEFINITELY Alec flaming Gilroy! If it hadn't been for the effects of that carbon monoxide, I'd have shown him the door as soon as he suggested anything, rather than agree to a connecting one. Still, it was hilarious when he got into bed with Betty, thinking she were me."
Mavis: "Well, I wish you all the luck in the world, Rita. I hope you'll be happy with Fred, despite your reasons."
Rita: "Thanks, Mavis.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 11

A couple of days later, Mavis popped over to the corner shop to pick up a few things for Rita while she was planning the wedding. Dev took the opportunity to slip out and catch Rita while she was alone. Mavis went to pay but found she'd forgotten her purse. She asked Sunita to keep them on one side while she got it. She let herself in through the front door and heard voices. She crept up the stairs and was shocked by what she heard.

Rita: "Give it a rest, Dev."
Dev: "Please, Rita. Please, don't go through with this farce."
Rita: "I told you we were finished, and I meant it."
Dev: "I don't want it to end. I love you."
Rita: "Stop saying that!"
Dev: "Why? It's true."
Rita: "I warned you, Dev. I told you when you threatened to tell Fred about us it was over. But you did it anyway."
Dev: "I had to do what I could to stop you ruining your life."
Rita: "Oh, and I suppose it would be better with you."
Dev: "Yes. I'd make sure it was. We're good together, Rita. I've seen you with Fred. You're trying too hard. The natural affection is missing. We both know that isn't the case with us. Now go and deny that."
Rita: "I'm not denying anything."
Dev: "That makes a change."
Rita: "I beg your pardon?"
Dev: "You pulled the wool over Fred's eyes again."
Rita: "What if I did? It's nothing to do with you anymore. In fact, it never was. We're not married, so you can't tell me what I can and can't do."
Dev: "We could be married. It's not too late, Rita."
Rita: "Don't be stupid. We're not even a couple."
Dev: "Only because you won't let us be."
Rita: "It looks like I made the right decision."
Dev: "It's the wrong one. You know that, but won't admit it."
Rita: "I'm too old for you, Dev."
Dev: "Are you sure you don't mean, I'm too young for you?"
Rita: "What does it matter? I'm thirty-two years older. That's a hell of a lot of years, which stretch over time."
Dev: "It doesn't have to. Not if we don't let it."
Rita: "We'll have no choice. It wouldn't last."
Dev "You're thinking of me dumping you for someone younger."
Rita: "It's inevitable."
Dev: "Not necessarily."
Rita: "It'll happen, Dev. You won't even be fifty when I'm eighty. It's only when we're both over a hundred it'll stop mattering and we'll be well past it. You know deep down I'm right."
Dev: "How do you know unless we try? It might not be like that."
Rita: "It WILL. The time would come when I won't be enough for you, so you'll look elsewhere. I couldn't face that, Dev. Things are bad enough now without thinking a few years down the line."
Dev: "I won't hurt you, Rita."
Rita: "You won't be able to stop yourself. Time to be realistic, Dev. You were engaged to Geena and that didn't stop you jumping into bed with Deirdre when you had a row. You'll do the same to me."
Dev: "That was different. I thought Geena had left me. Me and Deirdre had far too much to drink, but it didn't take me long to realise my mistake."
Rita: "It's no different, no matter how you paint it. You're a man. Being unfaithful is as natural as breathing."
Dev: "Rita, all the time we were together I never cheated on you. I still haven't. Okay, so we had an almighty bust-up and I could've pulled the first woman I fancied. Only I didn't, because you mean far too much to me."
Rita: "I only have your word that you didn't. You could be lying. Something else you lot can't help."
Dev: "What about women? What about you? You aren't being honest with Fred about our affair."
Rita: "It's not the same thing at all."
Dev: "It never is! Everyone lies at some point, Rita."
Rita: "I do know that. Dev, I do care a lot about you."
Dev: "Looks like it(!)"
Rita: "I told you at the beginning I didn't love you. I wasn't lying then."
Dev: "I know."
Rita: "I've always been totally honest with you."
Dev: "Okay. So, just because you're going to marry Fred, it doesn't mean we still can't see each other."
Rita: "I don't believe you just said that."
Dev: "I need you, Rita."
Rita: "No, you don't. Once that ring's on my finger, I will NOT betray him. I have never been unfaithful in my life and I certainly don't intend to start now."
Dev: "There's no ring yet."
Rita: "What?"
Dev: "And there's still four days to go."
Rita: "What are you saying?"
Dev: "You know what I'm saying."

He went over and put his arms around her. She swallowed hard.

Rita: "Dev..."
Dev: "You know you want to."
Rita: "It wouldn't be a good idea."
Dev: "Give me one good reason."
Rita: "Mavis'll be back soon."
Dev: "Then let's make the most of her absence."
Rita: "Dev, please. Don't do this."
Dev: "I love you, Rita. I want you so much."
Rita: "No, Dev."
Dev: "Yes, Rita."

He kissed her passionately and she found herself unable to resist. She threw her arms around him tightly.
Mavis noticed it had gone quiet, so stuck her head round the door. She crept towards the lounge and nearly had a seizure when she saw them. She went to the bedroom to get her purse and dropped on the bed, completely stunned by what she's witnessed her old friend doing. She was about to go back to the shop, but realised she couldn't leave in case they saw her. She waited by the door to listen.

Dev: "I knew it wasn't over, Rita."
Rita: "I wish you didn't have this effect on me."
Dev: "Now you know what you do to me. That wasn't a kiss like before. You have more fire in your soul."
Rita: "Have I?"
Dev: "I sense the wall's down."
Rita: "Oh, Dev. Whatever have you done to me?"
Dev: "Only what you did to me all those months ago."
Rita: "I'm missed you so much. How dare you make me fall in love with you."
Dev: "Whoa! What did you just say?"
Rita: "Which part?"
Dev: "The second part."
Rita: "How dare you make me fall in love with you."
Dev: "I thought I'd misheard."
Rita: "No."
Dev: "You really love me?"
Rita: "Unfortunately."
Dev: "That's great!"
Rita: "No, it's not. I'm marrying Fred on Saturday. I'm more confused than ever."
Dev: "Then call it off."
Rita: "I won't hurt him!"
Dev: "Well, let's not think about that now."
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Any chance of locking Mavis out?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Does she have a mobile?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Oh."
Rita: "But I did ask her to pick up a few things in town."
Dev: "Ah. So, she won't be back as soon as you implied?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Told you women lied."
Rita: "Yeah, yeah."
Dev: "So, er... We have a bit longer then?"
Rita: "Unless she's done something really daft like forgot her purse."
Dev: "Better get out the way then."
Rita: "Dev Alahan. Whatever are you suggesting?"

He smiled knowingly and they embraced again. When they came up for air, Rita smiled coyly, took his hand and led him into the bedroom. He kicked the door shut with his foot.
Mavis meanwhile, leaned against the wall in total disbelief. When she thought it was safe, she tip-toed out of the flat, and returned to pay for the groceries, but she couldn't stop thinking about her discovery. She decided to go to the cafe for a cuppa and a think. She cursed inwardly as she heard Fred call her from his shop. She stopped, turned and forced a smile.

Fred: "I thought you hadn't heard me."
Mavis: "No chance of that, Fred."
Fred: "Rita not with you?"
Mavis: "No."
Fred: "In the Kabin, is she?"
Mavis: "No. She's got too much to do before Saturday."
Fred: "I know all about that. So, she's at home then?"
Mavis: "Why do you want to know?"
Fred: "I thought I'd go and keep her company."
Mavis: "Oh. Well, she's gone out. I don't know when she'll be back."
Fred: "Oh, well, never mind. I'm seeing her tonight anyway. How is she?"
Mavis: "What do you mean?"
Fred: "Any second thoughts?"
Mavis: "If she has, she hasn't said anything to me."
Fred: "I know how happy you've made her by being here, Mavis."
Mavis: "I couldn't let her down, could I? What about you?"
Fred: "I'm like an excited kid. I still can't believe in just a few days, she'll be Mrs Rita Elliott."
Mavsi "You really love her, don't you?"
Fred: "That I do. I say, that I do. I couldn't believe it when she accepted my proposal. I still can't. I keep expecting to wake up and find it's not true. She means everything to me, Mavis. Everything."
Mavis: "Oh, dear."
Fred: "What? Do you know summat I don't?"
Mavis: "No."
Fred: "She is going to turn up on Saturday, in't she?"
Mavis: "I'll make sure of it, Fred. Don't you worry. I'll tie her up and drag her by her hair if necessary. She won't let you down."
Fred: "No. Ignore me. I'm being daft. I know Rita wouldn't do owt like that. Ooh, got to go. Customer. Tell Rita I'll see her later."
Mavis: "I will."

She watched him go, bursting with happiness. That was the final straw. She couldn't keep quiet any longer, so marched back to Rita's to have it out with her.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 12

When Mavis arrived at the flat, she put the bags down and went straight into Rita's bedroom. Rita and Dev were asleep, his arm draped over her. Mavis felt sick but was resolute.

Mavis: "I want a word with you, Rita. Do you hear me?"

Neither stirred, so Mavis went across and shook Rita violently.

Rita: "Mavis!"
Mavis: "We need to talk, so get rid of HIM! I'll be in my room. WHEN you can tear yourself away."

She stormed out, slamming the door behind her. Rita lay on her back and put her hand on her forehead.

Dev: "Looks like the cat's out of the bag."
Rita: "I'm rather afraid you could be right. This is all your fault."
Dev: "Mine? "
Rita: "If you hadn't come round-"
Dev: "You'd still be lying to yourself about us."
Rita: "Maybe that'd be better."
Dev: "You don't mean that?"
Rita: "No, I don't. Why couldn't you have stayed away?"
Dev: "Because I love you."
Rita: "This is such a mess. Why do I keep letting myself get in these situations?"
Dev: "I'd better go."
Rita: "Yeah. Then I'll have the excitement of a tongue-lashing from Mavis."
Dev: "I don't envy you."
Rita: "What's she doing back so early? That's what I don't understand. We should never have fallen asleep."
Dev: "Well we did, and we can't change that."
Rita: "No."

Dev got out of bed and got dressed.

Dev: "Will you phone later and let me know how you went on?"
Rita: "Course I will."
Dev: "I'll be right over if you need me."
Rita: "I know."

He kissed her and she gently stroked his face.

Dev: "I love you."
Rita: "I love you too."
Dev: "Good luck."
Rita: "I'll need more than luck if her face is anything to go by."

He kissed her again and let himself out. Rita sighed, got up, pulled her dressing gown around her and went to face the music. She paused as she held the handle, took a deep breath and went in.

Rita: "What are you doing?"
Mavis: "What does it look like?"
Rita: "Oh, Mavis. Please don't do this. There's no need for you to go."
Mavis: "There's every need, Rita. I didn't know if I was going to say anything at all until I bumped into Fred and he was saying how much he loves you. More fool him, that's all I can say."
Rita: "What do you mean, you didn't know if you were going to say anything? You caught us just now."
Mavis: "I came back earlier."
Rita: "How much earlier?"
Mavis: "About thirty minutes."
Rita: "I didn't hear you."
Mavis: "You were too busy in the lounge, so I came in here to get my purse. I heard everything, Rita."
Rita: "You couldn't have."
Mavis: "I waited at the top of the stairs for a long time. How could you?"
Rita: "I don't know. I've never done anything like it before."
Mavis: "You and Dev. It's disgusting."
Rita: "These things happen."
Mavis: "Poor Fred."
Rita: "You're not going to tell him?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "Thank you."
Mavis: "Only because he should hear it from you. I even lied to him to stop him coming over. I'm so ashamed of myself for that."
Rita: "I'm not exactly proud of myself, you know."
Mavis: "Then why do it to him? I know you don't love him, but he doesn't. And he can't wait for you to become his wife."
Rita: "And I will be."
Mavis: "What about Dev?"
Rita: "Leave him out of it."
Mavis: "Will you keep seeing him behind Fred's back?"
Rita: "No!"
Mavis: "Are you sure? You're already doing it, so what's the difference after Saturday?"
Rita: "Since you say you heard so much, you'll also have heard me tell Dev I will not be unfaithful to Fred."
Mavis: "You also said you love Dev. So, how can you be loyal with such great passion for him?"
Rita: "Don't be sarky, Mavis."
Mavis: "I'm not being. Why didn't you tell me?"
Rita: "There was nothing to tell. It was over."
Mavis: "It isn't now."
Rita: "Didn't you listen to a word I said to him about how it won't work because of the age difference?"
Mavis: "I did, but that still didn't stop you. I'm really disappointed in you, Rita."
Rita: "I gathered that."
Mavis: "So you'll understand why I can't stand around and watch you say your vows knowing what I do now."
Rita: "You had no problem with it when I told you my reasons for doing this."
Mavis: "That was before I discovered how much you're doing behind his back. Fred Elliott has never been my favourite person, but I certainly don't like the idea of him being lied to by his bride-to-be while you and Dev..."
Rita: "Fred loves me."
Mavis: "No idea why."
Rita: "Thanks a lot(!) Fred's a good and decent man."
Mavis: "Far too good for you."
Rita: "I agree with you there. He's put his complete trust in me and I will not let him down. I may not love him, but I respect and care about him too much to see him hurt."
Mavis: "If you respect and care for him as much as you say you do, what are you doing with Dev?"
Rita: "You don't understand."
Mavis: "That's patently obvious."
Rita: "It's too complicated."
Mavis: "It always is. I'm sorry, Rita."
Rita: "What's that supposed to mean?"
Mavis: "If I stay after this, I'll be a hypocrite."
Rita: "Mavis, please don't leave. Not like this."
Mavis: "I've made up my mind. I find it very difficult to even look at you."
Rita: "What will I tell people? They'll all wonder why you left so suddenly."
Mavis: "Tell them what you like. Make something up. That does seem to be your forté."
Rita: "Mavis-"
Mavis: "I don't even know if I want to be your friend anymore. Goodbye, Rita."
Rita: "No, Mavis. Please!"

Mavis ignored her and left, leaving Rita on the brink of tears.

Rita: "Mavis!"

She hurried after her and saw her pulling away in the car. She tried to stop her, but it made no difference. Rita watched helplessly as Mavis's car drove down the street and disappeared round the corner. She felt so stupid and tried to fight the tears but they came anyway. She could feel her nose running but made no effort to wipe or blow it. She couldn't believe she'd lost her oldest and best friend over something so ridiculous.
Dev saw the events unfold and hesistated before deciding to go to her. Neither said anything as he put his arm around her and led her back inside. He sat her down and handed her a box of tissues.

Dev: "Do you want a drink?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "I take it things didn't go to well."
Rita: "Whatever makes you think that(?)"
Dev: "Come on, Rita."
Rita: "Come on, what?"
Dev: "Don't take it out on me."
Rita: "Why not? I've just lost my best friend because I stupidly let myself fall under your spell again."
Dev: "These things happen."
Rita: "You don't care, do you?"
Dev: "Of course I care. But what can I do about it?"
Rita: "Stay away from me, for a start."
Dev: "What?"
Rita: "I've been a stupid old fool, but I won't be again."
Dev: "Rita-"
Rita: "I want you out of my life, Dev."
Dev: "I can't do that, Rita."
Rita: "You can and you will. It was very flattering someone like you, who could have any woman you wanted, was interested in me. Wanted me far more than anyone else. I let it go to my head. Well, no more."
Dev: "Rita..."
Rita: "Don't you DARE touch me again. It won't work this time, or ever again."
Dev: "You're upset-"
Rita: "You're damn right I'm upset."
Dev: "Once you've calmed down-"
Rita: "Not on your life, Dev. I'd still feel the same. It's over. And this time, it IS for good."
Dev: "I thought you loved me."
Rita: "So did I. Like I said, it went to my head."
Dev: "I don't believe you."
Rita: "I don't care."
Dev: "I love you, Rita."
Rita: "Then it's high time you stopped."
Dev: "Just like that?"
Rita: "I'm sure you'll manage it."
Dev: "I don't want to."
Rita: "Well, I do."
Dev: "I'm sure you'll see things differently tomorrow."
Rita: "I won't."
Dev: "Don't do anything you'll regret later."
Rita: "I already have. Only that started back in October."
Dev: "Rita..."
Rita: "I'd like us to still be friends, Dev. But there can never be anything more between us. Saturday I'm marrying Fred, so we'd be finished anyway."
Dev: "I knew that. I had hoped you weren't being serious."
Rita: "And if you blab again about us, I'll tell everyone you took advantage of me when I was vulnerable."
Dev: "You wouldn't do that, Rita."
Rita: "Try me. I'll make your life hell if you start stirring again."
Dev: "No. You wouldn't do it. I know you wouldn't."
Rita: "You know nothing."
Dev: "Why are you being like this?"
Rita: "How else am I going to get it into that thick head of yours I don't want to see you again?"
Dev: "You could just tell me straight. You don't have to be so hostile."
Rita: "I tried to tell you earlier and you refused to listen."
Dev: "Because I didn't want to hear. Look, Rita. I know deep down you're right. It's only that I don't like the thought of you and Fred. I don't want to be without you."
Rita: "You'll get over it."
Dev: "It won't be easy."
Rita: "Nothing ever is."
Dev: "Tell me one thing though, Rita. You do love me really, don't you? I'll still walk out the door and your life, no matter what the answer is."
Rita: (sighs) Yes, I do. But it makes no difference."
Dev: "I really wish it did."
Rita: "It changes nothing."
Dev: "I realise that. Still, it was good while it lasted. Don't you think?"
Rita: (smiles) "Aye, it was."
Dev: "What about Mavis?"
Rita: "I don't know."
Dev: "I'm sorry if I came between you."
Rita: "I'll try and sort it out."
Dev: "Suppose it'll be easier when she knows I'm out of the picture."
Rita: "I'm not going to tell her."
Dev: "I thought you would."
Rita: "I'm not having her friends again because of that. If we ever DO make it up, then I'll tell her."
Dev: "I'll be going then."
Rita: "I think you'd better."
Dev: "We'll still have a lot to do with each other, you know. Otherwise people will start wondering."
Rita: "Just not in private."
Dev: "No."
Rita: "Don't kiss me goodbye."
Dev: "Not even a peck on the cheek?"
Rita: "Best not, or we'll end up back at square one."
Dev: "Wouldn't be such a bad thing. Only kidding."
Rita: "You'd better be."
Dev: "Trust me. I won't do anything to ruin your big day, Rita. I promise."
Rita: "You'd better not."
Dev: "Bye then, Rita."
Rita: "Goodbye, Dev."
Dev: "Don't forget to blow your nose. I'll see myself out."

Later that evening, Fred was round for dinner. The intercom buzzed, and Rita went to answer it.

Rita: "Hello? Yes. What do you want? You'd better come up then."

She pressed the button, opened the door and returned slowly to Fred, chewing her thumbnail.

Fred: "Who were that?"
Rita: "The police."
Fred: "What do they want?"
Rita: "They wouldn't say."
Policeman: "Mrs Sullivan?"
Rita: "Yes."
Policeman: "You must be, Mr Sullivan."
Rita: "No. He's my fiancé, Fred Elliott."
Policeman: "Oh. I'm sorry, Mr Elliott."
Fred: "What's all this about?"
Policeman: "It's a bit delicate."
Rita: "Whatever you have to say, you can say it in front of Fred."
Policeman: "Perhaps it would be better to have someone with you. It's about Alan Bradley."
Rita: "What about him? Is he finally dead?"
Policeman: "If only it was that simple."
Rita: "What then?"
Policeman: "I'm sorry, Mrs Sullivan. I'm afraid I have to inform you that he escaped from prison this afternoon."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 13

Norris and Emily came out of number 3 on their way to have an evening drink. Norris spotted the police car outside Rita's, then saw Fred and a policeman come out the front door. His natural nosiness came to the fore as he watched Fred and the policeman chatting before the detective got in the car and it drove off. Fred quickly returned inside.

Emily: "Are you going to stand there all day, Norris?"
Norris: "I'm coming, Emily. I wonder what the police were doing at Rita's?"
Emily: "It's none of our business."
Norris: "You don't think Fred's been hitting her, do you?"
Emily: "Of course I don't. If they want us to know, I have no doubt they'll tell us."
Norris: "Perhaps I should go over and check everything's all right."
Emily: "You most certainly will do no such thing."
Norris: "I shan't sleep for worrying."
Emily: "You shan't sleep until your curiosity's satisfied. Well, I'm going to the Rovers. Are you coming?"
Norris: "Y-Yes, I'm coming."

Back at Rita's, she was crying, her nose was dripping and she downed one vodka after another, shaking so much she spilt some as she poured. Fred watched her from the doorway. It broke his heart to see her in such a state and he couldn't help but fear she'd try and do something stupid again. He went to her, sat beside her and took the bottle away.

Fred: "Come on, Rita. That's not going to help, is it?"
Rita: "I don't care."
Fred: "I do. I hate it when you're like this."
Rita: "You think I don't? Oh, why couldn't that copper have come to tell me the bastard was dead?"
Fred: "I don't know."
Rita: "I knew it wasn't over. I told Dev and Mavis he'd still try to get me."
Fred: "He might not come anywhere near."
Rita: "Oh, he will. Why else would he escape?"
Fred: "He must know the police will be keeping an eye out for him round here."
Rita: "That won't stop him. He's too devious to let something like that stop him from finishing the job off."
Fred: "I won't let him hurt you, Rita."
Rita: "No one can stop him. Oh, no!"
Fred: "What's up?"
Rita: "I've just realised. They get papers in prison, don't they?"
Fred: "Aye."
Rita: "Do they get the Gazette?"
Fred: "Shouldn't think so. Not where he is. Why?"
Rita: "He must know about our wedding."
Fred: "It's probably a coincidence he chose this time."
Rita: "You don't honestly believe that, do you?"
Fred: "I don't know what to think."
Rita: "Well, I do. I know him too well. He was obsessed with marrying me. Hates me because I turned him down twice. And
absolutely despises me for marrying anyone else. I humilitated him the second time when he arranged it all behind my back. He's never forgiven me for that. I need a drink."
Fred: "No, you don't. You've had enough."
Rita: "I haven't had anywhere near enough."
Fred: "You'll end up looking like a vodka bottle if you carry on like that."
Rita: "Was that meant to be funny?"
Fred: "No."
Rita: "Well, I don't care."
Fred: "I do. Rita, it hurts me to see you like this."
Rita: "Nothing I can do about that. Blame that bastard."
Fred: "You're playing right into his hands."
Rita: "What do you mean?"
Fred: "You're a strong woman, Rita."
Rita: "Not anymore, I'm not."
Fred: "Yes, you are. It's just him making you think like this. You can't let him get to you."
Rita: "Well, he does."
Fred: "Look, Rita. You were on your own before. You aren't now."
Rita: "Meaning?"
Fred: "I'd have thought that were obvious."
Rita: "Fred, he's a psychopath. You'd do better to stay as far away from me as possible."
Fred: "Not a chance."
Rita: "He won't hurt you if you're not around."
Fred: "I am not leaving you to face him alone if he comes here. We're in this together, Rita. Like it or lump it."
Rita: "I don't want anything happening to you because of me."
Fred: "And I won't let anything happen to you. I'm not leaving, Rita."
Rita: "You'd be better off without me."
Fred: "I'll be the judge of that."
Rita: "Every relationship I've ever had turns to crap. I'm a jinx."
Fred: "Rubbish."
Rita: "Is it me? Do men look at me and only see a punchbag?"
Fred: "Don't be daft. I don't. I'd never lay a finger on you. Where's this come from?"
Rita: "Harry Bates. Len."

She paused to swallow a mouthful of vodka.

Rita: "Alan."
Fred: "Ted didn't."
Rita: "Maybe if he hadn't been dying, he would."
Fred: "Alec? Anthony?"
Rita: "Weren't committed to them."
Fred: "Now, see. You can stop that daft talk this minute. It's the drink."
Rita: "If only it were. I've thought about it all these years."
Fred: "Then it's time you stopped."
Rita: "I should've stayed away when he hit Terry Duckworth. It was just like turning the clock back and seeing Len using his fists. But, no. He had to explain. He spun me a sob story about his suspended sentence and I fell for it. I always fell for it."
Fred: "You weren't to know what would happen."
Rita: "I saw the warning signs but I shut me eyes because I loved him. I'm a fool. I've always been a fool. I always will."
Fred: "You just picked bad 'uns. Not your fault."
Rita: "Isn't it?"
Fred: "Everyone's done it. Look at me with Eve."
Rita: "Not the same. How do I know you won't turn out the same?"
Fred: "I won't. I've never hit a woman in my life."
Rita: "You will if you go ahead and marry me. I seem to drive men to it. Alan said I was the sort of woman who got their kicks out of being beaten to a pulp. Maybe he was right."
Fred: "He were wrong."
Rita: "Was he? I thought so at the time. I'm not so sure now."
Fred: "You're nowt like that. Come on."
Rita: "Where are we going?"
Fred: "You can't stay here. Pack a few things you need and we'll take them to the Rovers."
Rita: "Why?"
Fred: "You'll be safer there."
Rita: "He'll find me, even if I were on the moon. If he's going to come after me, I might as well stay here and wait."
Fred: "Get drunk, you mean."
Rita: "At least I won't feel anything when he kills me."
Fred: "I'm not going to let that happen."
Rita: "No one can stop it. It's a vicious circle. I live, he tries to kill me. It will only end when one of us is dead."
Fred: "Aye. Him."
Rita: "It'll be me."
Fred: "Not if I've got owt to do with it. Now get what you need until the wedding. After Saturday we'll be far away from here. They'll probably have caught him by the time we get back."
Rita: "The wedding's off."
Fred: "Why?"
Rita: "It's better. I'm a jinx. You'd be better off without me."
Fred: "Not a chance. You and me will get wed as planned, Rita. You've got to show him you're not afraid of him. And not let him stop you doing what you want."
Rita: "But I AM afraid."
Fred: "Then he has won. You're giving him what he wants. You'll just sit here and wait for him to come and kill you. Is that what you want?"
Rita: "What does it matter?"
Fred: "It matters to me, Rita. It should to you."
Rita: "I'd be better off dead, rather than a burden."
Fred: "Fine. Get drunk. Feel sorry for yourself. You obviously have so little regard for me or the life we were going to have together."
Rita: "I don't want to put you at risk, Fred. Which is what you would be with me about."
Fred: "Isn't that my decision? Oh, what's the use? Okay, Rita. You win. I'll leave you to it."
Rita: "Don't go. I need you, Fred. I can't go through it on my own."
Fred: "I wish you'd make up your mind."
Rita: "I have. I'm sorry. You're right. I've got to fight and not show I'm frightened."
Fred: "That's the spirit!"
Rita: "Think ahead to Saturday. Act like he doesn't exist."
Fred: "He doesn't."
Rita: "I wish he didn't."
Fred: "Forget him and think of the future."
Rita: "If he gets his hands on me again, I won't have one."
Fred: "Rita..."
Rita: "Sorry. You're right again. It's this stuff. I'll be okay. As soon as I've slept it off, I'll paint the smile on and pretend everything's perfect."
Fred: "Someone's bound to have seen the police here."
Rita: "Then they'll know as much as we do when they pick up the paper. I'll have to show them I'm not bothered too."
Fred: "Think you can?"
Rita: "Had enough practice all them years."
Fred: "Shall I phone Mavis to let her know what's happening?"
Rita: "No!"
Fred: "Why not?"
Rita: "I don't want to worry her. She's got enough on her plate."
Fred: "Shame she won't be able to make it to the wedding."
Rita: "Yeah. Give us a hand up, then, so I can get me things together."

Over at the Rovers, Norris had told everyone about the police, much to Emily's dismay.

Ken: "I still think you're over-dramatising, Norris."
Norris: "You didn't see them, Ken. Fred looked very worried."
Ken: "It could have been routine."
Norris: "Then why was he looking shify?"
Emily: "He did NOT look shifty, Norris. He looked concerned."
Norris: "Have it your own way, Emily. I know what I saw."
Emily: "And I know what I saw, which was precisely the same as you."
Norris: "What if something's happened to Rita?"
Ken: "It hasn't."
Norris: "How can you be so sure?"
Rita: "Because I'm standing right behind you."
Norris: "Oh, h-hello, Rita. Everything all right?"
Rita: "Why wouldn't it be?"
Norris: "We saw a police car outside your flat before."
Rita: "Oh, that. Haven't they knocked on your door yet, then?"
Norris: "M-my door? What would they want with me?"
Rita: "I'll leave them to tell you that."
Fred: "Let's get your stuff through to the back, love."
Rita: "Coming, Fred."
Vera: "Didn't take her long, did it?"
Fred: "What were that, Vera?"
Vera: "You're not even wed yet and she's already taking over your wardrobe."
Fred: "You're talking rubbish, again."
Vera: "Am I?"
Fred: "Rita is moving into the back bedroom until after the wedding."
Vera: "Why isn't she staying at her place? Want to see if you're up to the job in case she changes her mind?"
Fred: "Now, see here, Vera-"
Rita: "Leave it, Fred."
Fred: "I will not leave it. I won't have the likes of her insinuating things aren't proper and above board."
Rita: "All the while I'm living here before we're married, there'll be a lot of that."
Fred: "It's not right. I say, it's not right."
Vera: "Well, why are you living over t'brush, then? There's only four days to go."
Fred: "We are not living over t'brush!"
Rita: (sighs) "We might as well tell them the truth, Fred."
Vera: "Aha. I knew it."
Rita: "Whatever you're thinking is VERY wrong, Vera. If you must know-"
Fred: "Are you sure about this, Rita?"
Rita: "They'll all find out soon enough."
Norris: "Find out what?"
Rita: "Wind your nose in, Pinocchio."
Norris: "I think you've got that wrong, Rita. Pinnochio's nose was long because he told lies."
Rita: "It were long, weren't it?"
Norris: "Yes."
Rita: "There you go then. Right, now providing there's no more interruptions, I'll tell you. The police came round to tell me Alan Bradley's escaped."
Ken: "What? How?"
Rita: "I weren't listening."
Fred: "So, Rita's moving in here on a strictly PLATONIC basis because I felt it weren't safe for her for be in the flat."
Emily: "Well, no. It's the first place he'll look for her."
Fred: "Precisely. The wedding is still going ahead as planned. However, no one, and I do mean no one, Norris and Vera-"
Vera: "Why are you singling me out?"
Fred: "Because you've got as big a mouth as Norris."
Norris: "I must say, I'm very hurt by your accusation that I have a big mouth."
Rita: "Shut it, Norris, and let Fred finish."
Fred: "Thank you, Rita. Where was I? Oh, aye. No one must say where Rita is to anyone. Is that understood?"
Vera: "Well, I know when to keep me gob shut."
Rita: "First time for everything."
Vera: "Eh, you."
Fred: "That's enough, Vera. This is a very stressful time for Rita, what with the wedding and now this. So we don't want any trouble, or I'll bar anyone who causes any. Right. This way, Rita."

Rita followed Fred to take her things upstairs. Vera pulled a face.

Vera: "Nerve of her. I can be quiet when I have to be."
Ken: "It must be very worrying for her."
Vera: "I'm surprised she can even walk straight."
Emily: "Pardon?"
Vera: "Well, you can see she's already had a skinful. His idea she moves in here? More like hers, so she can have free reign with all that booze."
Ken: "What are you implying, Vera?"
Vera: "I'm not implying anything."
Ken: "I should hope not."

Meanwhile, up in the back bedroom...

Fred: "Here you go. Not exactly cosy, is it?"
Rita: "It'll do. Besides, it's only for a few nights. I think I can put up with it. I've slept in worse."
Fred: "There's a lovely, comfy bed in my room."
Rita: "No, Fred. I told you when we got engaged. Not till we're married."
Fred: "I know you did. But isn't that a bit old-fashioned?"
Rita: "I'm an old-fashioned girl at heart. I want to do things properly this time. And, if you get frisky before Saturday, I'll hit you with me chastity belt."
Fred: "You haven't got one of them?"
Rita: "I have, you know. It belonged to my great-grandmother. Now, by all accounts, she were a one."
Fred: "Oh, aye?"
Rita: "Hmm. She makes me look like Shirley Temple."
Fred: "You'd look sweet as Shirley Temple."
Rita: "Not now, I wouldn't. Mind you, when I were a kid, I wanted to be her."
Fred: "I can just see you now."
Rita: "No, you flaming can't. I looked AWFUL."
Fred: "You could never do that, Rita."
Rita: "Aww."
Fred: "I'll leave you to sort yourself out. I'll be downstairs when you need me."
Rita: "Okay."
Fred: "I love you. You know that, don't you?"
Rita: "I do. I love you, Fred."
Fred: "See you later."

She smiled, and he left. She sat on the bed in deep thought.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 14

Saturday arrived. Rita had hardly slept a wink since she'd been there. Apart from wondering if Fred might sleepwalk into her room, there was also Alan. There's been no word on his whereabouts which increasingly worried her. She just knew he was waiting out there somewhere and planning his next move. Fred was over at Ashleys, since Rita wanted to do things properly, so Emily and Deirdre had been roped in to keep her company overnight and make sure she got to the registry office on time. Even though she'd promised faithfully she'd be there, Fred couldn't help wondering if this Alan Bradley business would make her take flight as far away from Weatherfield as possible. While Rita was putting the finishing touches to her make-
up, there was a loud pounding on the main doors.

Rita: "That'll be the car. Tell him I won't be a sec, would you, Audrey?"
Audrey: "Certainly."
Rita: "Right. I think I'm ready to go."
Emily: "You look lovely, Rita."
Rita: "Thank you."
Emily: "I wish Mavis could see all this."
Rita: "Well, she can't. Just have to send her some snaps."
Deirdre: "The driver'll be having kittens if we don't get a move on."
Rita: "Not as many as Fred if we arrive too late, I'll be bound."

They made their way through to the bar and stopped dead when they saw Alan with his arm around Audrey's throat.

Alan: "Well, well, well. Getting married again, Rita? And to someone other than me? You're beginning to make a habit of this."
Rita: "What I do is nothing to do with you, Alan."
Alan: "You look nice. Perfect outfit to be buried in."
Rita: "The police are all looking for you."
Alan: "Do you think I don't know that? I'm not as stupid as you, Rita."
Rita: "The only stupid thing I ever did was fall for your tales."
Emily: "What do you want, Alan?"
Alan: "She knows what I want. Don't you, Rita?"
Rita: "And I'll make damn sure you don't get it."
Alan: "You've not got a lot of choice in the matter. The only thing that keeps me going is the thought of you dead. And me making sure you are."
Rita: "Drop dead, Alan."
Alan: "No, Rita. It's you who'll be doing that. What did you move in here for? Did you really think I wouldn't find you?"
Rita: "It's none of your business."
Alan: "That's where you're wrong. Everything you do is my business. I knew as soon as you heard I was out you'd run. You're still scared of me. Good."
Rita: "I'm not scared of you. Far from it."
Alan: "I was here when you moved in."
Rita: "What?"
Alan: "Yeah. Sat in a corner with a pint. No one recognised me. Must be something they put in the water, seeing as everyone's as stupid as you. Get in the back."
Rita: "I'm not going anywhere, except to the registry office to get married."
Alan: "You really do have a death wish, don't you, Rita? If you'd like me to break Audrey's neck because you won't do as you're told, I'm quite happy to oblige."

Rita looked at Emily and Deirdre, then the frightened Audrey and finally, the smirking Alan. She hated him so much, but reluctantly did as ordered.

At the registry office, Fred was crestfallen. There was still no sign of Rita. He kept checking his watch, but he knew she wouldn't come now.

Ashley: "There's still time."
Fred: "No, there isn't. She's stood me up. I should've known. It were never meant to be in the past, and it's not now."
Ashley: "They could be stuck in traffic."
Fred: "No. Audrey were supposed to arrive before them and she's not turned up either."
Ashley: "Rita wouldn't let you down without a good reason."
Fred: "She's changed her mind. That's her reason. Come on. Let's go home. I'm not waiting any longer."
Ashley: "But what if they arrive after we've gone?"
Fred: "Tough. If Rita's still at the pub, she's got a lot of explaining to do."

Back at the pub, they were all in the back room.

Alan: "Right, Rita. I want you to tie them all up."
Rita: "You what?"
Alan: "You heard."
Rita: "What with?"
Alan: "Deirdre, you find something."
Deirdre: "What if I won't?"
Alan: "Then it's bye-bye Audrey. Wait. I've had a better idea. Why didn't I think of it before? You were always my inspiration, Rita."
Rita: "What now?"
Alan: "The phone line. Remember, Rita?"
Rita: "Not very likely to forget, am I?"
Alan: "Deirdre, cut up good lengths."
Deirdre: "How?"
Alan: "Use a pair of scissors!"

Deirdre silently did as ordered, while Alan kept staring at Rita.

Alan: "So, you're marrying fatso?"
Rita: "Don't you dare talk about Fred like that!"
Alan: "I'll talk about him how I like. It's a free country. I had no idea about this. Still, I told you my timing has always been perfect, Rita."
Rita: "You didn't know before you escaped?"
Alan: "How could I? I only found out when you moved in here and it was annouced it would still be going ahead. Incidentally, what time was it to take place?"
Rita: "Half twelve."
Alan: "Well, it look like it's too late now."
Deirdre: "Is that enough?"
Alan: "Yes. Now, come here and bind Audrey's hands tightly. Then I want you to tie Emily's. Rita will do yours."
Rita: "I will not."
Alan: "You'll do as I tell you. Audrey will be a bonus and make no difference to my sentence. In fact, I'll happily serve my time knowing you're six feet under. That's right, Deirdre. Now Emily, sit down. Deirdre, pull out chairs for you three. Good. Rita, tie up Deirdre."

Rita reluctantly did as she was told. Alan looked at them all. Rita was terrified.

Alan: "Now, if any of you tries to help Rita, you'll be next. Understand?"

They all nodded and Alan smiled. He moved towards Rita and she backed up. She reached the fireplace and couldn't go any further. He was too close for her to run without grabbing her. His face twisted and she swallowed. He lunged at her, her hands grappling for anything behind her. She picked up a photo frame and brought it down. He let go and held his head. She dashed for the stairs. She'd got up a couple when she felt herself being pulled down. He turned her over. She brought her legs up and kicked him in the stomach. He fell back against the wall, winded. She scrambled up the steps and heard him behind her. He tried to push her down, but she fought like a wildcat. At that moment, Fred and Ashley came in via the bar. They were shocked by the scene at the top of the stairs. Ashley spotted Audrey, Deirdre and Emily tied up and went
to release them. Fred was unsure what to do. He thought if he tried to help, Rita might come off worst. Rita was getting closer to the edge. Alan with his hands firmly around her throat. She tried in vain to get them off, raised a hand and scratched his face. He yelled out and went to hit her, but she avoided the impact and he fell down the stairs, hitting his head loudly on the floor. Rita wailed and slumped to the ground. Fred rushed to her and put his arms around her tightly. But she couldn't avert her gaze from the pool of blood around Alan's head or his lifeless body.

Fred: "Shhh. Shhh, Rita. It's all right."
Ashley: "He's dead."
Fred: "It's all over now, Rita. You hear me? It's finished. You're safe now."
Ashley: "Are you all okay?"
Deirdre: "Fine."
Audrey: "Yeah."
Emily: "I'm more concerned about Rita. She's in shock."
Ashley: "Dad'll look after her. I'll phone the police."
Fred: "Rita, love? Talk to me. Please."

The police came. Rita was taken to hospital, but still stared straight ahead and was silent. Fred never left her side. Alan's body was taken away and no charges were brought against Rita. She was kept in for observation and they gave her something to make her sleep. Fred was really worried she'd been pushed over the edge and he'd lost her forever. He felt guilty for calling her all sorts after thinking she'd stood him up. The nurses told him to go home and rest, but he wouldn't. Several hours later he found he was not alone by Rita's bed.

Fred: "Hello, Mavis. What are you doing here?"
Mavis: "It was on the news. How is she?"
Fred: "In shock, they say. She's not said anything since he died."
Mavis: "Where were you?"
Fred: "At the registry office. He must've waited until we were safely out the way. We should've gone together like I wanted. But Rita wanted it done properly. I should've insisted then she wouldn't have been left alone."
Mavis: "Once Rita sets her mind on something, nothing will change it."
Rita: "No."
Mavis: "So you've nothing to blame yourself for. After all, I left her and went home."
Fred: "You wouldn't have been able to help. By all accounts, he had Audrey, Deirdre and Emily tied up so they wouldn't interfere."

At that moment, Rita woke up screaming and sat upright. Fred perched beside her and comforted her. She buried her face in his shoulder and cried.

Fred: "It's all right now, Rita. You let it out. Hey, you've got a visitor."
Rita: "I can't face anyone."
Fred: "It's Mavis."

She removed her battered face from his now wet shirt. Mavis smiled.

Mavis: "Hello, Rita."
Rita: "What are you doing here?"
Mavis: "I had to come as soon as I heard. I'm so sorry for everything."

Rita cried again. Fred got out of the way, while the two women hugged each other.

Fred: "I'll leave you to it, while I get a cup of tea. Anyone else want one?"
Mavis: "Thanks, Fred."
Rita: "Not for me."
Fred: "Okay. Won't be long."

He walked away, pausing to watch them. He couldn't help thinking about what would happen now between him and Rita. He promised to look after her, yet just stood there while she was being attacked. He wouldn't blame her if she never forgave him and called it off. He went to the drinks machine.

Rita: "I'm surprised to see you."
Mavis: "I had to find out how you were."
Rita: "To ease your conscience?"
Mavis: "Yes."
Rita: "I should thank you really."
Mavis: "What for?"
Rita: "I'd been trying to finish it with Dev so I could start a clean slate with Fred. It just wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. Thanks to our row, it brought things to a head."
Mavis: "So, it's definitely over?"
Rita: "Yes. I knew I was being foolish all along. I was just so strongly attracted to him."
Mavis: "Which turned into love."
Rita: "Yes. I never intended to. It just happened. Dev does understand. It's hard for both of us, but we know it's the right thing to do."
Mavis: "I still don't understand why you did it."
Rita: "He made me feel wanted. I've been so lonely and insecure. I needed someone. And a man thirty-two years younger, thinking you're the best thing since frozen meals, is very good for the ego. If I'd not been so vulnerable after Alan... Oh, God!"
Mavis: "It's okay, Rita."
Rita: "Him not being dead has made me do some of the stupidest things I've ever done."
Mavis: "It's all over now."
Rita: "Is it?"
Mavis: "He's dead."
Rita: "How do you know?"
Mavis: "Fred told me. By all accounts, you put up quite a fight."
Rita: "I did. I don't know where I got my strength from. All I know was I had a very strong survival instinct which wasn't there before."
Mavis: "What about Fred?"
Rita: "Oh, yes. Fred. I think I'd best talk to him about that."
Fred: "Talk to me about what?"
Mavis: "My turn to make myself scarce. I'll be outside. Is that my tea?"
Fred: "Aye."
Mavis: "Thanks." (leaves)
Fred: "Well?"
Rita: "Is he really dead?"
Fred: "Yes. I saw him."
Rita: "So did I. I can't get that image of him lying at the bottom of the stairs out of my mind."
Fred: "You will in time."
Rita: "How much time?"
Fred: "I can't say."
Rita: "Why didn't you help me?"
Fred: "I was frozen to the spot. I was so scared for you."
Rita: "You said you'd protect me."
Fred: "I know. I should've. I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am."
Rita: "You thought I'd jilted you, didn't you?"
Fred: "What was I supposed to think?"
Rita: "You were right. We should've gone together. Next time we will."
Fred: "Next time?"
Rita: "I take it you do still want to marry me."
Fred: "Course I do. I thought you wouldn't, after I let you down."
Rita: "He tried to kill me twice before and I did nothing to save myself. Why? Probably because then I hadn't much of a future. This time I have. And that's down to you. Maybe I found what I lacked before because I didn't want to give all that up."
Fred: "Shall I fix a new date, then?"
Rita: "Yes. Get down there as soon as it opens. I want to marry you as soon as possible."
Fred: "I will look after you, Rita."
Rita: "I know you will. I don't have to look over my shoulder anymore. I don't have to be afraid he'll suddenly appear from the shadows. I'm finally free."
Fred: "I love you very much."
Rita: "And I love you. I REALLY do."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 15

Two days later, Rita was allowed to go home. Mavis had stayed at her flat, while Fred collected her.

Fred: "Ready to go?"
Rita: "Yes. I can't wait. Oh, did you get the new date?"
Fred: "Aye. It weren't easy, but I managed the 25th February."
Rita: "Why that date?"
Fred: "It were the only one available. Why? Summat wrong?"
Rita: "Well..."
Fred: "Does it hold bad memories?"
Rita: "You could say that. It's my birthday."
Fred: "Is it? Oh, aye. I'd forgotten. So, what's the bad memories?"
Rita: "All those years gone by in the blink of an eye."
Fred: "Shall I change it to something later?"
Rita: "Nah. It's all booked now. Besides, worrying about getting married is bound to take my mind off being another year older."
Fred: "Okay. Shall we go?"

Fred drove her home. As they pulled up outside the flat, Rita spotted a familiar face from the past. She carefully got out of the car to cause as little pain as possible and stared at the back of the head of the person by her front door.

Rita: "Jenny?"
Jenny: "Hello, Rita."
Rita: "Well, you're the last person I expected to see after what happened last time we met."
Jenny: "I know. And I can understand why you still hate me. I don't blame you. I wasn't sure whether to come or not."
Rita: "What do you want? If it's more money, you can forget that, lady."
Jenny: "It's not. I promise. I heard about me dad. I thought he was dead."
Rita: "Where were you in December 2002 when he tried to kill me again? Or October for his trial?"
Jenny: "I've been working in Myanmar for the past three years so I knew nothing about it."
Rita: "Where the heck's Myanmar?"
Jenny: "It used to be called Burma."
Rita: "Ahhh. That I've heard of."
Jenny: "I only came back to England last month. What's been going on, Rita?"
Rita: "Err...Fred. You go back to the pub."
Fred: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "I'll ring you later."
Fred: "Okay. I'll leave the car here if that's all right by you."
Rita: "Fine. See you later."
Fred: "Yeah. Take care of yourself."
Rita: "I will."

Jenny was puzzled, but Rita said nothing as she made sure Fred went away.

Rita: "Right. You'd better come in, so I can fill you in."

Inside, Mavis had seen Fred's car pull up and did a bit of last-minute tidying up. Rita came into the lounge and smiled.

Rita: "You all right, Mavis?"
Mavis: "Fine. I was going to ask you the same thing. Oh. Hello, Jenny."
Jenny: "Nice to see you again, Mavis. How've you been keeping?"
Mavis: "Fine."
Jenny: "And how's Derek?"
Mavis: "He died."
Jenny: "Oh, I am sorry."
Rita: "Jenny was waiting on the doorstep."
Mavis: "Why didn't you ring the bell?"
Jenny: "I didn't know if anyone was in. Besides, I wasn't sure what sort of reception I'd get after last time."
Mavis: "I'm not surprised."
Rita: "Flat looks nice."
Mavis: "Thank you."
Rita: "Much tidier than normal. Have an orgy in here last night, did you?"
Mavis: "I leave that sort of thing to you."
Rita: "Thanks(!)"
Mavis: "I'm sorry. I was trying to be witty."
Rita: "Don't call us, we'll call you."
Mavis: "Sit down, Rita. You must be exhausted."
Rita: "Funnily enough, I am. Despite all the drugs they gave me to help me sleep. Come in, Jenny. We won't eat you, you know. Well, I can't speak for Mavis, but I had me dinner before I left."
Mavis: "I've eaten already."
Rita: "I know I have, but it doesn't feel like it. When are they going to make hospital muck filling? Oh, well."

Rita took her coat off, handed it to Mavis and sat in the chair. Jenny nervously followed, feeling both their eyes burning into her, and sat on the sofa.

Mavis: "Shall I make a pot of tea?"
Rita: "Don't think I have one anymore. Not much call when you're on your own."
Mavis: "Not for much longer."
Rita: (smiles) "No."
Mavis: "Just twenty-three days to go."
Rita: "Don't remind me!"
Mavis: "I thought you were looking forward to it."
Rita: "I am. I'll also be another year older."
Mavis: "Try and forget about that."
Rita: "I'd like to. But it'll be there in black and white that day."
Jenny: "What's all this then?"
Rita: "I'm getting married."
Jenny: "Again?"
Rita: "Hey, I'm not exactly Liz Taylor, you know. I'll never catch up with her."
Mavis: "She'd be married by now if it wasn't for your father."
Rita: "Mavis."
Jenny: "Was it Saturday?"
Rita: "Supposed to be. I was just leaving when he turned up. Mavis, where's that tea?"
Mavis: "I'm going. I expect you'll want one, Jenny."
Rita: "Course she does. Make us a sandwich while you're there, will you?"
Mavis: "'Us'?"
Rita: "Me, you daft beggar. Unless you'd like something, Jenny?"
Jenny: "Not for me, thanks."
Mavis: "What sort?"
Rita: "I don't know. Anything. Oh. I haven't done any shopping for nearly a week."
Mavis: "Lucky for you I did then."
Rita: "Thanks, Mavis. I don't know what I'd do without you sometimes."
Mavis: "That's what friends are for."
Rita: "Well, don't forget to polish your halo while you're in the kitchen. There's some stuff under the sink."
Mavis: "And you put yours straight."
Rita: "I haven't got one. They threw me out of the union years ago."
Mavis: "I'm not surprised."
Rita: "They'll take yours off you too if you don't get a shift on with that tea."

Jenny giggled as Mavis left. Rita felt very uncomfortable around the woman she once regarded as her daughter. She was far too much like her father for her liking.

Jenny: "I used to enjoy watching you two bicker."
Rita: "We don't bicker."
Jenny: "Banter then."
Rita: "That's better."
Jenny: "You two missed your vocation. You could've made fortune as the next Morecambe and Wise."
Rita: "I daren't ask who you think should have the short, fat, hairy legs."
Jenny: "Mavis, of course."
Rita: "Just what I was thinking."
Mavis: "Here's your sandwich."
Rita: "Thanks, Mavis."

As Mavis bent to put the plate down, Rita slapped her Eric Morecambe-style and winked at Jenny.

Mavis: "What was that for?"
Rita: "Eh, you can't see the join."
Mavis: "Rita."
Rita: "Nothing, Mavis. I didn't hurt you, did I?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "Good. It were just a bit of fun."
Mavis: "Perhaps you'll let me in on the joke."
Rita: "I'll tell you later. Is that the kettle?"

Mavis returned to the kitchen slightly peeved. Rita and Jenny laughed.

Rita: "Awww. Poor Mavis."
Jenny: "It was funny though."
Rita: "Did you see her face? Oh, dear. She'll never let me hear the last of that. So, how are things with you?"
Jenny: "Going very well."
Rita: "You look well."
Jenny: "I am. Rita. About me dad."
Rita: "Yes. Can't go avoiding it any longer."
Jenny: "He died in Blackpool."
Rita: "It seems not."
Jenny: "I saw his body."
Rita: "Apparently, it were his twin brother."
Jenny: "What twin brother?"
Rita: "I'd never heard of him either."
Jenny: "This looks like it'll be a long story."
Rita: "It is."

Over at the Rovers, Fred's mind was on Rita's mysterious visitor. He could see Rita wasn't exactly bowled over to see her.

Dev: "Everything okay, Fred? Rita's no worse, is she?"
Fred: "No. Rita's back home."
Dev: "That's good. What about the wedding?"
Fred "We've rearranged it for the 25th."
Dev: "Fingers crossed nothing goes wrong this time."
Fred: "I've got everything crossed."
Dev: "Did you enjoy having Rita living here?"
Fred: "Aye, I did."
Dev: "Oh, yes?"
Fred: "It were nowt like that."
Dev: "Never?"
Fred: "No. Not for the want of trying, mind."
Dev: "Who's turning who down?"
Fred: "Rita's turning me down."
Dev: "You surprise me."
Fred: "She just won't till we're wed."
Dev: "You mean, you never..."
Fred: "Never."
Dev: "We all got the impression you had."
Fred: "No. And now I'll have to wait even longer."
Dev: "Never mind, Fred. The weeks will go quickly."
Fred: "Not quick enough. But, eh. You will keep this to yourself, won't you?"
Dev: "Mum's the word. So, if Rita's okay, what's the problem?"
Fred: "A young woman was waiting to see Rita when we got back from the hospital."
Dev: "So?"
Fred: "I'm guessing they aren't exactly the best of pals."
Dev: "I see. You don't know who she is, then?"
Fred: "No. Her name's Jenny, or summat."
Emily: "Jenny Bradley? Oh, I'm sorry. I couldn't help overhearing."
Fred: "How much did you hear?"
Emily: "All of it, I'm afraid. I think it's wonderful you and Rita are waiting until after you're married. Far too many don't these days. You should both be commended."
Fred: "Thanks(!) So, this Jenny. You know her, then?"
Emily: "Only too well."
Fred: "Red-haired, like Rita?"
Emily: "Yes."
Dev: "Hang on. Did you say, Bradley?"
Emily: "That's right. She's Alan's daughter. Rita used to foster her."
Fred: "Rita weren't best pleased to see her."
Emily: "I'm not surprised. They had a big falling out."
Fred: "What over?"
Emily: "Money. She discovered what Ted had left Rita and asked for some. Rita was very hurt and upset. She loved that girl as if she was her own. So, she gave her a thousand pounds and told her she never wanted to see her again."
Fred: "I see."
Emily: "She was such a lovely girl. It's terrible she turned out so much like her father."
Fred: "She's not violent, is she?"
Emily: "Not as far as I know. Mind you, it's been a long time, so you never know. She lied and schemed like him. Do you know what she's doing here?"
Fred: "It seems she's just found out he wasn't dead. Do you think she'll hurt Rita?"
Emily: "In what way?"
Fred: "Like her father."
Emily: "As I said, I don't know what she's like now. She does have a shocking temper."
Fred: "I'd better get back over there."
Dev: "I'm sure everything will be all right, Fred. Mavis is there, isn't she?"
Fred: "Having other people about didn't stop him at the weekend, did it?"
Emily: "I agree with Dev."
Fred: "Rita can always tell me to go away."
Dev: "She'll be fine."
Fred: "I'm not willing to take the chance. I let her down Saturday. I won't again."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 16

At Rita's Jenny was completely gobsmacked at what she found out about her father's actions.

Rita: "Jenny?"
Jenny: "I can't get me head round this."
Rita: "How do you think I felt? I was completely taken in by his Dave Grant lies. He was always a devious swine."
Jenny: "He was alive all this time?"
Rita: "Yes."
Jenny: "Why didn't he get in touch with me?"
Rita: "Maybe he thought you'd let it out."
Jenny: "He didn't trust me? After everything I did for him?"
Rita: "I don't know. When I realised who he was, he never even mentioned you. He was too consumed with hate."
Jenny: "He really hated you, didn't he?"
Rita: "More than you'll ever know."
Jenny: "Just because you told them what he'd done then disappeared?"
Rita: "There was more to it than that, Jenny. It went back as far as when I said I wouldn't marry him the first time. I told him I'd never marry again. I did."
Jenny: "I don't blame him. He loved you."
Rita: "He loved the idea of getting his grubby hands on my money."
Jenny: "That's not true."
Rita: "Oh, come on, Jenny. You know as well as I do it is."
Jenny: "Why didn't you marry him?"
Rita: "I didn't want to. I told him that. And I told him my reasons. Maybe if he'd been as decent as I believed him to be, over time, I would've."
Jenny: "If you said you'd never marry again, why did you? Why ARE you?"
Rita: "Because it feels as right with Fred as it did with Len and Ted.

There was a loud knocking at the door. Mavis went to answer it.

Jenny: "You're wrong, Rita. He did love you. I know he did."
Rita: "Only Alan knows that. Knew that."
Jenny: "He told me. He told you often enough."
Rita: "He told me a lot of things. He lied so much you never knew when he was telling the truth. You can't deny that."
Jenny: "I don't know what to think anymore. I'd better go."
Rita: "Okay. Oh, Fred. What are you doing back here?"
Fred: "I missed you."
Rita: "Sweet."
Jenny: "Is he the one you're marrying?"
Rita: "Yes."
Jenny: "Congratulations."
Fred: "Thank you."

Jenny stood and made her way to the door. Rita followed and opened it.

Jenny: "I hope you'll both be very happy."
Rita: "I'm sure we will be."
Jenny: "Thank you for agreeing to see me, Rita. I wouldn't have blamed you if you'd told me to sod off."
Rita: "I nearly did. But you had a right to know about your dad."
Jenny: "See yer."
Rita: "Take care."
Jenny: "You stay with Fred and Mavis. No need to come down with me."
Rita: "Okay."

She watched Jenny walk down the steps and let herself out. She felt sad remembering how it came to all this. She slowly closed the door and returned to Fred and Mavis. She put her arms around Fred.

Rita: "Thanks."
Fred: "What for?"
Rita: "I take it someone told you what went on with me and Jenny."
Fred: "Aye, they did. I was also told that young lady was very much like Alan and has something of a temper."
Rita: "You thought she might take after him in more ways that one?"
Fred: "I couldn't not come over, Rita."
Rita: "And I appreciate it, Fred. To be frank, it had crossed my mind. Last time I saw her, it wasn't pleasant."
Fred: "So I heard. Will she be coming back?"
Rita: "Shouldn't think so."
Fred: "So, feel like coming over the road for a drink? Just for ten minutes."
Rita: "Why not? Have to be orange juice, mind, in case I need any of them sleeping pills the hospital forced on me. Don't want any little accidents now, do we?"
Fred: "Definitely not."
Rita: "From now on, I won't have any booze, even if I've just taken an aspirin. Got too much to lose. Sit down while I make myself beautiful."
Fred: "You're always that, Rita."
Rita: "Flatterer, Presentable then. Don't you dare."
Fred: "What?"
Rita: "Say what you were going to. Whatever I say I need to do to look half-decent, you say I don't."
Fred: "Well, you can't help being perfect, I suppose."
Rita: "True. Just wish it didn't take longer every year to get that way. Why don't you sit over there until I'm ready? Get a book if you like. 'War and Peace' is on the shelf somewhere. Never finished it, so I look forward to you telling me how it ends."
Fred: "You're not really going to take that long, are you?"
Rita: "On a good day, no."
Fred: "And what's this?"
Rita: "Don't know yet. Make yourself comfortable."

Rita went into the bedroom, while Fred sat.

Fred: "How's she been since that Jenny arrived?"
Mavis: "Trying to be friendly. She was very hurt last time."
Fred: "Do you think they'll make it up?"
Mavis: "I honestly don't know, Fred. I think Rita would love to more than anything. But she knows what Jenny's like now."
Fred: "Afraid to get her fingers burnt again, I suppose."
Mavis: "Well, she did too many times with Alan. She was such a lovely girl. Personally, I think it was his influence, rather than in her genes, which made her the way she is. She'd already lost her mother and would do anything not to lose her father too once he came back into her life. If you ask me, Rita should have nothing more to do with that girl if she shows her face round here again. She's too soft-hearted for her own good."
Rita: "Lucky no one IS asking you, Mavis."
Fred: "That were quick."
Rita: "Course it was. Today is an excellent day."
Mavis: "Rita-"
Rita: "I know what you're going to say, Mavis. And you're right. I am too soft-hearted by half. Why do you think I put up with you all those years? Only kidding. I'm not going to be taken in by her again. If Jenny has any ideas we can be the best of friends again and it'll be like it was, she's got another think coming. She might not even come back. And if she does, she'll have to prove she's changed before I ever trust her again. I shut me eyes to that swine of a father of hers. I won't be making the same mistake again, I assure you."
Mavis: "I hope so, for your sake."
Rita: "This is one lesson I HAVE learned, Mavis. Trust me, eh?"
Mavis: "All right."
Rita: "Good. Now, are you coming with us?"
Mavis: "No. Maybe later."
Rita: "Okay. See you later then."
Mavis: "Enjoy yourself."
Rita: "I'll do my best."

At the Rovers, Dev was still going over in his mind what Fred had told him about him and Rita not sleeping together. He wanted to find out from Rita why she said they had, but knew he'd promised they'd only meet in public. His heart skipped a beat when he saw her come in, with Fred's arm around her shoulder and smiling. She spotted him and the smile disappeared briefly as she sensed something was not right by the way he looked at her.

Fred: "You sit yourself down, and I'll bring your drink over. It was an orange juice, wasn't it?"
Rita: "That's right."
Fred: "Won't be long. There's a seat over there."

While Fred fetched her drink, she sat down the side. She was being fussed over by everyone, so Dev had to wait his chance.

Fred: "Here."
Rita: "Thanks."
Fred: "Will you all right on your own for a bit? Only I've got to change a barrel."
Rita: "I'll be fine. Stop fussing."
Fred: "I can't help it. Now, come on. Let Rita get some air."
Rita: "Thanks, Fred."
Fred: "Won't be long."

Dev waited a few moments before going over and sitting beside her.

Rita: "Dev."
Dev: "Rita. Using the scarf to cover the marks on your neck again, I see."
Rita: "I didn't have anything else."
Dev: "Not love bites this time."
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Fred not give them?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Not even in bed?"
Rita: "No."
Dev: "Well, considering you've never slept with him, I'm not surprised."
Rita: "What?"
Dev: "Why did you lie to me, Rita?"
Rita: "When?"
Dev: "The day you told me it was over."
Rita: "First or second time?"
Dev: "You know which time."
Rita: "Oh, yes. When you immediately went and told Fred about us."
Dev: "That's the one."
Rita: "What else could I say? You know I didn't really want to end it, but I had to because I got engaged. So, I lied."
Dev: "The thought of you with him really hurt me, Rita."
Rita: "That was the intention."
Dev: "It still does."
Rita: "Please, Dev."
Dev: "I know it's over. That's why I haven't come to see you since Saturday. I can't help the way I feel though."
Rita: "Neither can I."
Dev: "I wanted to so much. I wanted to hold you. Comfort you. I haven't seen you for a whole week and it's killing me."
Rita: "Dev..."
Dev: "I know. I know."
Rita: "I deliberately stayed out back while I was here so I wouldn't have to see you. We both knew it wouldn't be easy. But it has to be done."
Dev: "I have to see you."
Rita: "You are."
Dev: "Just the two of us."
Rita: "That's not a very good idea."
Dev: "We don't have to do anything. I just want to be alone with you, one last time."
Rita: "Then it'll be another, and another."
Dev: "Please, Rita. I promise. A few hours. That's all I ask."
Rita: "I'll have to think about it."
Fred: "Everything okay?"
Rita: (smiles) "Fine."
Dev: "Thanks, Rita."
Rita: "I'm not promising anything."
Dev: "I know. I'll leave you to it." (leaves)
Fred: (sits) What were all that about?"
Rita: "He thinks I need a shoulder to cry on again."
Fred: "You've got mine."
Rita: "I know. Have you wrung it out yet?"
Fred: "Course. I put it in the ale."
Rita: "He thinks it might be better to talk to someone who is detached from the situation."
Fred: "I see. Are you going to?"
Rita: "I don't know."
Fred: "He did wonders for you before."
Rita: "I know."
Fred: "I think you should."
Rita: "Really?"
Fred: "Aye. You've been through a lot. Again. I know you're trying to show that lot you're fine. But it's festering underneath again. Best get it off your chest with someone totally uninvolved. Don't want you suicidal again."
Rita: "If you think that's best. What about Mavis?"
Fred: "I'll take her off your hands for a few hours."
Rita: "Doing what?"
Fred: "Helping me decide where to take you for our honeymoon."
Rita: "That'll keep her occupied for years. A few hours will do."
Fred: "Then a few hours is what you'll get. When? Tomorrow?"
Rita: "Why not? I'll go and tell him now."

She got up and walked towards Dev who was just finishing his drink. She took him to one side.

Rita: "Tomorrow."
Dev: "When?"
Rita: "I'll phone you."
Dev: "What about Fred and Mavis? She certainly won't be too happy having me in your flat."
Rita: "It's Fred's idea. He thinks I need to get things off my chest before I crack up again."
Dev: "What makes him think that?"
Rita: "That's what I told him we were talking about. He agrees you did me the world of good before."
Dev: "I did, didn't I?"
Rita: "But that's not going to happen tomorrow. I'll keep this grey pallor rather than have colour in me cheeks. Agreed?"
Dev: "Agreed. So, Mavis?"
Rita: "Fred'll get her out the way."
Dev: "You know, Rita. If we were still having an affair, Fred would be a marvellous help, don't you think? He's very good at pushing us together."
Rita: "I'd best get back to him. Got to find out when he'll get rid of Mavis."
Dev: "I'll look forward to that phone ringing."
Rita: "Not too much, I hope."

With that, she returned to Fred, leaving Dev smiling to himself as he left.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 17

The following afternoon, Dev was sat out the back of his shop waiting for Rita to call. Meanwhile, Rita had just let Fred in.

Fred: "Right, Mavis. Get your coat on."
Mavis: "What for?"
Fred: "I'd like you to help me choose a place to take Rita on our honeymoon."
Rita: "Where are we going?"
Fred: "I don't know yet. That's why I want some ideas from Mavis."
Mavis: "Why me? Shouldn't you decide together?"
Fred: "I want it to be a surprise."
Rita: "As long as it's somewhere with a beach, I don't care."
Fred: "Aww. You've ruined my surprise. Now you know we're going to Blackpool."
Rita: "How wonderful. I'll start packing."
Fred: "You do that."
Mavis: "Are you really going to Blackpool?"
Rita: "Of course not."
Mavis: "Good. Mind you, Fred. If she ever disappears, look for her there first."
Fred: "Why?"
Mavis: "That's where she always runs to."
Rita: "I don't."
Mavis: "You do."
Rita: "Yes, I suppose I do."
Fred: "Anyway, Mavis. Rita tells me you're very romantic, which is why I'd like you're advice. I want this to be a honeymoon Rita will never forget. And besides, as you know her far better than I ever will, you'll also know what to steer clear of."
Mavis: "Florida?"
Rita: "What do you think?"
Mavis: "Thought so. Tenerife?"
Rita: "I'm going to belt you in a minute, Wilton."
Mavis: "Jersey? All right. I'm going."
Rita: "Good. Any more suggestions like that and you'll be going without a head."
Fred: "I take it they have bad memories."
Rita: "Not the places. Just the men I went with. I'm quite sure Mavis will fill you in."
Fred: "Ready, Mavis?"
Mavis: "Yes."
Fred: "See you in about three hours then."
Mavis: "It won't take that long, will it?"
Fred: "With all them brochures to get through? We'll be lucky to get out before they shut."
Rita: "Have fun. And find something wonderful."
Fred: "I fully intend to. You deserve the best, Rita. I say, the best. And that's precisely what you're going to get. See you later."
Rita: "Bye, love."

She watched from the window as they drove away then picked up the phone.

Rita: "Coast's clear. We have three hours. And remember, no funny business."

She looked out the window again and saw him crossing the road. Her heart pounded as she made herself look presntable, wondering if she was doing the right thing. She checked her watch nervously as she waited and began to pace. Finally, there was a knock at the door.

Rita: "What kept you?"
Dev: "Couldn't wait to see me?"
Rita: "I was expecting you to come through the front door."
Dev: "I thought about what you said. So, to stop people talking about you having a man around as soon as your fiancé's back was turned, I used the Gazette as a pretext."
Rita: "I can pick one up anytime. I do OWN a paper shop after all."
Dev: "No need to now. Here."

She snatched it from him.

Rita: "Thanks. Come in if you're stopping."
Dev: "I thought you'd never ask."

As he went past, she hit him with the paper, closed the door and followed him.

Rita: "Anything interesting in it?"
Dev: "The usual."
Rita: "I'll leave it to use on the glass then."
Dev: "Oh, there is one thing I think I should warn you about."
Rita: "Sounds ominous."
Dev: "Norris told me Alan's obituary's in there, as well as details for his funeral."

She sat on the settee, placed the paper on the coffee table and flicked through it. Then she saw it in black and white. She felt as though she'd been stabbed in the chest and broke down. He went over and comforted her.

Rita: "I'm sorry."
Dev: "It's okay."
Rita: "It's just seeing it there. I'm glad he's dead. I just never knew how much of a relief it is. All this time I've been in fear of my life. Now the nightmare is finally over."
Dev: "You've been through a lot thanks to him. Now you can look forward."
Rita: "Yes. Although I hated him so much for what he did, I really loved him at one time. Even when he pretended to be Dave Grant and tricked me again. I suppose the reason I fell for him was because I was looking for what I had with Alan before he turned devious bastard. Mind you, he was always that. Pity I never saw it until it was too late. That's why seeing his death notice upset me the way it did. I keep thinking about what might have been if he hadn't been like that. I'd have probably married him. I never did because in the back of my mind there was always this niggling doubt he didn't want me for me. I'd have been more sure if I could just scrape the money together every month to pay the bills."
Dev: "No sense in looking back."
Rita: "No. I hope there's nothing else he failed to mention."
Dev: "Like what?"
Rita: "He was really part of triplets, or septuplets! Seven men all like him doesn't bear thinking about. One was bad enough."
Dev: "Well, in a few weeks you'll marry Fred. So you can put all this behind you."
Rita: "Yes."
Dev: "I know he'll do everything he can to make you happy."
Rita: "Yes."
Dev: "And you'd be stupid to throw that all away for me."
Rita: "You don't mind anymore?"
Dev: "I'll always mind, Rita. But I know what you were saying before, and you're right. I will end up hurting you. Maybe even destroying you if I strayed. And I wouldn't want to do that. I love you too much."
Rita: "I know you do. I'm glad you've seen sense at last."
Dev: "So, we can still be friends, and that's all."
Rita: "I'd like that."
Dev: "Fred's invited me to the wedding again."
Rita: "I know. You didn't go before."
Dev: "I couldn't face seeing you marry him. This time I'll be there to wish you both well. And I promise to keep my mouth shut."
Rita: "Good."
Dev: "I want to see you happy, more than anything."
Rita: "And I will be. With you, I'd worry too much about what you were up to when you were out of my sight. I won't have to with Fred."
Dev: "No. He's the faithful type."
Rita: "I'm glad we had this little chat."
Dev: "So am I. It's cleared the air between us. We can look forward too."
Rita: "I had thought you had an ulterior motive for wanting to see me alone."
Dev: "No. It's time to say goodbye to what we had and remember the good times."
Rita: "Hear, hear."

They smiled at each other and the next thing they knew they were in a passionate embrace. Neither resisted as Dev pushed her down.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 18

An hour later they were lying in each other's arms on the sofa completely out of breath.

Rita: "If that was a goodbye, I dread to think what a hello would be like."
Dev: "Good farewell though, wasn't it?"
Rita: "I'll let you know if I ever stop panting."
Dev: "You're a wild woman, Rita. I've always liked that."
Rita: "I have me moments. This must stop."
Dev: "It has."
Rita: "You know what I mean. It has really GOT to finish. Besides, you're far too tall for me."
Dev: "You have a point. All that stooping to kiss you is playing havoc with my back."
Rita: "Why can't be be alone in a room together without ripping each other's clothes off?"
Dev: "I have absolutely no idea. Once you're married we'll never be alone again."
Rita: "Not such a bad thing since we still can't control ourselves."
Dev: "I don't know."
Rita: "Course it is."
Dev: "I didn't hear you moaning. Oh, hang on..."
Rita: "Stop being so cheeky."
Dev: "Everything you say is true. We can't go on like this."
Rita: "Sense at last. There's hope for you yet."
Dev: "Hey, ginge. I saw it all before, if you recall."
Rita: "Until passion overtook us AGAIN. And please don't call me ginge. Len used to."
Dev: "Sorry. Okay, how about orange?"
Rita: "Careful, Alahan."
Dev: "Red, then?"
Rita: "Don't let's start with the pet names, Dev. It's over, if you remember."
Dev: "Yeah."

They both heard a car pull up outside. Rita got up and crossed to the window.

Rita: "I hope that's not Fred and Mavis."
Dev: "So do I. This is one time I don't want to be caught in flagrante in a lady's boudoir."
Rita: "It's the living room."
Dev: "Don't split hairs."
Rita: "Oh, God! It IS them! What are they doing back so early?"
Dev: "I don't know. But I have a strong sense of deja vu."
Rita: "Stop gabbing and smarten yourself up."
Dev: "You've lost most of your lipstick."
Rita: "It's not lost. It looks like it preferred to be on you."
Dev: "What?"
Rita: "Better get in the bathroom and wash it all off. It looks like you've got a lip-shaped rash."
Dev: "Okay."
Rita: "It says it doesn't come off."
Dev: "Must've been the steam."
Rita: "Bathroom! I take it you know where it is."
Dev: "I should do by now."

While Dev removed all traces of lipstick, Rita quickly reapplied hers. Her hand wouldn't stop shaking and she thought she'd end up with a smile painted up to her ear. She closed her eyes to take deep breaths and managed to do the job. Dev returned.

Dev: "All gone?"
Rita: "Looks like it. Tuck your shirt in."
Dev: "Oh."

He did that and sat, while Rita ran a brush through her hair and straightened her clothes.

Dev: "You look sexy when you panic."
Rita: "Shut up. How do I look?"
Dev: "Perfect."
Rita: "Damn! The door."
Dev: "They won't notice anything amiss. Don't worry."
Rita: "I'm trying not to."
Mavis: "Trying not to what? Oh. Dev. What are you doing here?"
Fred: "Hello, Dev. Rita not bored you, I hope."
Dev: "Not a bit of it."
Rita: "It was very therapeutic."
Mavis: "You knew Dev was here, Fred?"
Fred: "Course I did. It were my idea."
Mavis: "I see."
Fred: "I thought after what Rita just went through, she might need to talk to Dev. He's not emotionally involved so it'd be easier to unburden herself than it is to me."
Mavis: "You can talk to me, Rita."
Rita: "I know I can, Mavis. Good job Dev was here though."
Mavis: "Why?"
Rita: "Alan's obituary's in the Gazette."
Mavis: "Oh dear."
Rita: "It brought it all back."
Fred: "Are you okay?"
Rita: "I am now."
Dev: "I'd better be getting back to the shop."
Rita: "Thanks for being here, Dev."
Dev: "No problem."
Fred: "I'll see you out."
Dev: "Thanks."

While Fred did that and Dev told him he'd be attending the wedding, Mavis glared at Rita.

Rita: "I don't know what you're looking at me like that for."
Mavis: "Don't you(?)"
Rita: "No. Nothing happened."
Mavis: "No?"
Rita: "No. We just talked."
Fred: "Eee, that's good news."
Rita: "What is?"
Fred: "Dev'll be at the wedding."
Rita: "I know."
Fred: "You do? Why didn't you say something before?"
Rita: "He only told me while he was here."
Fred: "Oh."
Rita: "Anyway, I thought you'd be out longer. What happened? Did they chuck you out for messing up their brochure display?"
Fred: "No."
Rita: "Arrested for loitering then?"
Fred: "Nowt like that. It's all booked."
Rita: "Already?"
Fred: "Well, a deposit. I'll go back tomorrow and pay the balance."
Rita: "What if I don't like it?"
Fred: "You'll love it. I were thinking of the new Queen Mary 2. You've already been on the QE2. And it occured to me you might like to compare them."
Rita: "Isn't that very expensive?"
Fred: "Several arms and legs. But it's been booked solid for well over eighteen months."
Rita: "Ah, that's a shame."
Fred: "That's what I thought."
Rita: "I'd have loved to have gone on that."
Mavis: "Nothing available all year."
Rita: "That popular?"
Mavis: "Well, it's brand new."
Fred: "Aye. The biggest liner in the world. Well, till someone builds a bigger one."
Rita: "I did enjoy our cruise all those years ago. Didn't you, Mavis?"
Mavis: "Apart from Alec Gilroy."
Rita: "I'm trying to forget I ever heard of him."
Fred: "Mavis told me how much fun you both had."
Rita: "Mavis. I thought I told you not to mention me and the captain."
Fred: "So...lucky for us there was a cancellation."
Rita: "What? Fred, you've completely lost me."
Fred: "The ship."
Rita: "We've got on?"
Fred: "We have. Mind, it's not till the 24th May. Twelve day cruise round the Med. Can you wait that long for our honeymoon?"
Rita: "I'll do me best."
Fred: "We'll go down to Southampton the day before so we won't have to worry about being late. I've booked us in overnight at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel. Where's that picture, Mavis?"
Mavis: "Oh. Here."
Fred: "Look at that."
Rita: (whistles) "It's all glass."
Fred: "Well, some of it. Very posh and VERY expensive."
Rita: "Fred, I can't expect you to pay for all this. It's too much."
Fred: "Nonsense, Rita. You're the one for doing things properly. So, the groom always spends the most."
Rita: "Thought that was the father."
Fred: "Aye, normally."
Rita: "Fred, love. You're paying for the wedding, the reception, the honeymoon and now this hotel. It's far too much. Let me help, please."
Fred: "Nothing doing."
Rita: "I don't want to bankrupt you."
Fred: "You won't. I love you, Rita. I've always loved you."
Rita: "Not when you married Maureen Holdsworth, Eve Sykes and proposed to Audrey Roberts you didn't."
Fred: "I did. You wouldn't have me."
Rita: "I came round eventually."
Fred: "I want the best for you, Rita. It's my wedding present to you."
Rita: "Turning up on the day will be enough."
Fred: "I'll be there. It's also to show how much I love you."
Rita: "I know that already. You don't have to spend so much to prove anything."
Fred: "I know. Don't spoil this, Rita."
Rita: "I only think since it's not our first marriage, I should contribute. But, I won't cause any problems. I'm not happy about it though."
Fred: "That's plain."
Rita: "Maybe I've got used to paying my own way all these years. I don't feel comfortable unless I can pay my share."
Fred: "All right. My money'll pay for all this. Yours can be the spending money. How about that?"
Rita: "With the amount I'll buy? Perfect."
Fred: "That's settled then. I'll pick you up in the morning and we'll get it sorted."
Rita: "What time?"
Fred: "Ten?"
Rita: "Okay."
Fred: "And don't forget your passport."
Rita: "What for?"
Fred: "They'll need your details."
Rita: "Do they? Oh well. I'll put it in my bag today."
Fred: "Champion."
Rita: "Don't forget yours."
Fred: "Got mine already in me pocket."
Rita: "Just remember to wear that jacket tomorrow."
Fred: "I'll sleep in it so I won't forget."
Rita: "You do that. Fred."
Fred: "Aye?"
Rita: "I've decided to go to the funeral."
Fred: "What? Why?"
Rita: "I have to. Don't ask why. I just do."
Fred: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "No. I don't want to. I HAVE to."
Fred: "Do you want me to go with you?"
Rita: "I'd appreciate it. There's no way I'm wearing black, mind."
Fred: "Aren't you going to show some respect?"
Rita: "Not flaming likely!"
Fred: "What will you wear then?"
Rita: "I was thinking of bright red or yellow. Maybe both."
Fred: "You aren't serious?"
Rita: "I haven't decided yet. I probably won't."
Fred: "Good."
Rita: "But I refuse to grieve for him. If I wore black, or any dark colour, I'd be a hypocrite because I'm not sorry he's dead."
Fred: "What about an armband?"
Rita: "No."
Fred: "Have it your own way."
Rita: "I flaming intend to."
Fred: "I'll see you later. Will you be coming over?"
Rita: "Probably. Bye."
Fred: "Bye."

Fred kissed her then left. Rita glanced at Mavis and sat down, waiting for the inquisition about Dev.

Rita: "Okay, Mavis. Out with it."
Mavis: "Out with what?"
Rita: "You know what. Dev."
Mavis: "You told me it was all over."
Rita: "And it is. Look, we had a chat. He said he knows he'll hurt me at some point so it is best not to see each other again. He still loves me and doesn't want to do that."
Mavis: "What about you?"
Rita: "Me?"
Mavis: "How do you feel?"
Rita: "I love him. I'm trying not to. It's not easy. We did very well today. We sat apart-"
Mavis: "What about when you were upset?"
Rita: "All right. He did comfort me. But that was all. It's finished. We enjoyed it at the time, but now have drawn a very long line under it. He wants me to be happy. Fred will do that. Dev's accepted that. End of story."
Mavis: "I hope so."
Rita: "It is. He wishes me well. What more can I say?"
Mavis: "That you didn't jump into bed with him as soon as me and Fred were out the way."
Rita: "Check the bed."
Mavis: "What?"
Rita: "It's still made from this morning. Have a look. You came back early so there hasn't been time to make it."
Mavis: "All right, Rita. I believe you."
Rita: "Makes a change."
Mavis: "Do you blame me for thinking the worst after last time?"
Rita: "No. I told you at the hospital we weren't seeing each other again. Can't we be friends without you jumping to conclusions?"
Mavis: "I'm sorry, Rita."
Rita: "Well... You should have more faith in me. I could've called it off with Fred, but I didn't. You know I was marrying him to protect me from Alan so I wouldn't be alone. Alan's dead. That excuse isn't there anymore. I'm going ahead because I want to. Not trying to get away from Dev. I love Fred. Not like Dev, but I do."
Mavis: "I thought you said you didn't. You were only very fond of him."
Rita: "I was."
Mavis: "And it changed? Just like that?"
Rita: "Yes."
Mavis: "I don't believe you."
Rita: "Believe what you like. I knew when I was in hospital. I don't need to marry anyone for financial or emotional security. I choose to be his wife. Anything wrong with that?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "Put the thumbscrews away then otherwise you and me will fall out again. My life's back on track now that bastard's dead. I can think clearly. Don't you want me to be happy?"
Mavis: "You know I do."
Rita: "Then start to trust me."
Mavis: "It's not easy after you lied before."
Rita: "I lied to Dev a lot too, in order to end it. He understands why and accepts it. Will you still be a witness?"
Mavis: "If you want me to be."
Rita: "I do. Put the kettle on, Wilton. I'll look for that passport."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 19

The day of Alan's funeral arrived. It was a miserable cold and wet morning. Rita sat staring at her reflection in the dressing table mirror. She knew Jenny would be there and dreaded meeting her again. Her thoughts kept wandering back to seventeen years earlier with her, Jenny and Alan after he moved into number 7. She was so happy then until he started to sour things by asking for loans. She recalled that first night half-watching the snooker, waiting for Jenny to go to bed so they'd have some privacy. A tear rolled down her cheek but she didn't brush it away. She'd had so much to look forward to. It had taken a lot to even give herself to Alan all those months before. And even more to let him in her life and bed
permanantly. Eighteen years ago, she only just met him. Now he was finally out of her life after all that pain he caused her. She didn't hear Mavis knock or enter.

Mavis: "Rita? Rita?"
Rita: "Oh, hello, Mavis."
Mavis: "You can always change your mind about going."
Rita: "No. I must do this."
Mavis: "Fred's here. Shall I send him in or would you prefer to be alone a bit longer?"
Rita: "He can come in."
Mavis: "Okay."

Mavis looked at her then left. She was worried, but tried not to fuss too much. Rita wiped away the tear and touched up her make-up.

Fred: "You're in black."
Rita: "I know."
Fred: "Thought you said you weren't wearing it."
Rita: "I decided to after all. I'm in mourning."
Fred: "Didn't you say you were glad he's dead?"
Rita: "Mourning my past life, Fred. Not him. Is it time to go to the crematorium?"
Fred: "Yes."
Rita: "I'm glad he's being cremated. No chance of him jumping out of the coffin if he's ashes."
Fred: "You don't have to go, you know."
Rita: "Have you been talking to Mavis? I told you both already. This is something I HAVE to do. I'm exorcising my demons. They'll never go if I don't see it for myself. Let's go."

At the funeral, only Rita, Fred and Jenny were in attendance. Rita couldn't take her eyes off Alan's coffin, only diverting her attention when Fred squeezed her hand in reassurance and she smiled at him. Jenny sat alone down the front on the right. Rita and Fred the row behind on the left. Every time the vicar said some rubbish about Alan, Rita snorted, which increasingly annoyed Jenny. They watched the curtain close around the coffin, but Rita wished she could see it. She would have preferred him to be still alive and trapped inside when the flames consumed him, but had to accept the way things were. Jenny left first, glancing at Rita as she passed.

Fred: "You look a bit peaky."
Rita: "I'm fine."
Fred: "Mavis said you didn't have any breakfast."
Rita: "Couldn't face it."
Fred: "You're not going to faint, are you?"
Rita: "No."
Fred: "How are you feeling now it's all over?"
Rita: "To be honest, I don't know. It's going to take a long time to come to terms with the fact he's really dead THIS time."
Fred: "You know I'm always here if you need me."
Rita: "I know you are, Fred. I'd never have got through any of this if it weren't for you. You're my strength."
Fred: "No, I'm not. I told you before, Rita. You're a strong woman. You were just battered and subdued with the strain. You got this through yourself."
Rita: "Fred, don't underestimate yourself. Without you, I'd have drunk myself into a stupor when I was told he'd escaped."
Fred: "You did that anyway."
Rita: "Yes. But You saw how I was. I was all set to give up and let him do what he wanted. You made me see sense and focus on what's important. Us. Without your enduring love, despite everything, I wouldn't be here now. Wouldn't have fought to survive. I don't deserve you. But I will do my best to be a good wife to you."
Fred: "I know you will. And you're wrong, Rita. It's ME who doesn't deserve YOU."
Rita: "Fred, I have to tell you something. It'll change your opinion of me and I know you'll call the wedding off once you've heard what I have to say."
Fred: "Nothing will ever make me do that, Rita."
Rita: "This will. The fact is, I've lied to you. I've lied to you for months."
Fred: "About what?"
Rita: "Dev."
Fred: "I don't understand."
Rita: "What he said about me and him. It was all true."
Fred: "You were having an affair?"
Rita: "I'm afraid so."
Fred: "I don't believe it."
Rita: "I don't know how it happened. All I do know is I was desperately lonely and depressed. Well, you know that. I needed to feel loved. And it was exciting. A younger man and no one knew. He kept wanting to go public. I didn't. My life's been scrutinised and screwed up too many times in view of everyone."
Fred: "Did you love him?"
Rita: "Not at first. I never wanted to love anyone again. I never wanted to be hurt again. Can't get hurt if you don't love someone."
Fred: "So, you WERE using me."
Rita: "Deirdre was getting suspicious. I knew how you felt about me and so did everyone else. You were the obvious diversion."
Fred: "You agreed to marry me."
Rita: "You were right when you came for my answer. I was going to say no. Then I got that phone call. Remember?"
Fred: "Aye. Double glazing seller."
Rita: "It was Alan."
Fred: "What? Why didn't you say?"
Rita: "Why do you think? I was scared. I needed to feel safe. So I accepted your proposal."
Fred: "And Dev?"
Rita: "He was furious. He threatened to tell you about us. I ended it."
Fred: "But?"
Rita: "That row with Mavis."
Fred: "Row?"
Rita: "That was the reason she went back to Cartmel. Dev had come round while she was out to try and talk me out of marrying you. One thing led to another..."
Fred: "You slept with him?"
Rita: "Yes."
Fred: "Four days before we were due to get wed?"
Rita: "Yes. Mavis caught us. She was disgusted with me and I can't blame her. I was disgusted with myself for even considering having any sort of relationship with a man so much younger."
Fred: "Wait a minute. You said, 'not at first'. Do you love him?"
Rita: "I did then. We ended it. I told him I would not be unfaithful to you."
Fred: "But you were being."
Rita: "I know. He understood the reasons why it had to end."
Fred: "I see. What about when I took Mavis out and left you to it? Again?"
Rita: "I never meant it to happen."
Fred: "I don't believe I'm hearing this."
Rita: "I realised then that I don't love him at all. I never did. It was just lust. And, with him so much younger, it made me feel special."
Fred: "Why are you telling me this now?"
Rita: "Now Alan's dead, I don't have to be afraid any longer. My mind is clear instead of full of fear and feeling vulnerable. The truth is, Fred, no, I didn't love you. But somewhere over time, that changed and I do. I can think now and don't have to put that wall up to stop me feeling. I realised at the hospital while you were holding me."
Fred: "Didn't stop you sleeping with Dev."
Rita: "I know. And I'm not proud of that. It was over. It was just seeing Alan's obituary and it cut through me. If it hadn't been there, or I didn't know it wouldn't have happened. I've felt so guilty for betraying you like I have."
Fred: "So you should."
Rita: "I have too much respect for you. Always have. Ask Mavis. I don't want to hurt you."
Fred: "What do you think you're doing now?"
Rita: "Being honest with you for the first time in months. And myself. You were the one who made me want to live. You were the one who gave me the strength to stand up to Alan instead of being the wimp I'd become. I can't lie to you anymore. You've been hurt yourself by finding out things out by women you've loved and trusted after you were married. I wasn't going to do that to you as well."
Fred: "How do I know you won't jump into bed with Dev the first chance you get?"
Rita: "I won't."
Fred: "How do I know?"
Rita: "You don't. But I've sworn to Mavis, Dev and myself that I won't. I've never been unfaithful to the man I love and am
committed to in my life."
Fred: "You were committed to me."
Rita: "I didn't know what I was doing. I tried to kill myself, remember? I hated my life. I hated sleeping with Dev. I hated the one-night stand with Norris-"
Fred: "What? When were this?"
Rita: "Before I invited you over to dinner. We'd had to much to drink. I was physically sick when I woke up and found him in my bed."
Fred: "I'm not surprised. This were when you were seeing Dev?"
Rita: "Yes."
Fred: "Does he know?"
Rita: "No. As I was saying. I hated the way I was using you. You're a good and decent man and never deserved what I was doing to you. And it was also the anniversaries of Len's death and that bastard trying to kill me again. It made me realise I was no better than them with the lies and deception. I couldn't live with myself, so took as many pills as I could find. I did leave notes for you all, explaining everything. Norris found them. You would have been better off with me dead. So, there you go. I'll understand if you want to call it off. I wouldn't want to marry me after what I've done. I'll leave you to it and wait outside. If you need longer to decide, I'll take a taxi home."
Fred: "Aye."
Rita: "I'm sorry for hurting you like this, Fred. I wouldn't have for the world. I just couldn't lie to you anymore. You mean too much to me to keep it secret. And you know what secrets are like. One day they smack you in the mouth and your life's in tatters."
Fred: "That's true."
Rita: "I'm very sorry."

She got up and walked out with a heavy heart. Fred put his head in his hands.

Jenny: "You were the last person I expected to see here, Rita."
Rita: "I had to come?"
Jenny: "To celebrate his death?"
Rita: "No."
Jenny: "You're like one of those old crones during the Revolution. Knitting in your bag, is it?"
Rita: "It's not like that."
Jenny: "What is it like then? After all, he's dead because of you."
Rita: "He tried to kill ME!"
Jenny: "Pity he never succeeded. You've put me through this twice now, Rita."
Rita: "I did nothing. It was your father who did it to you."
Jenny: "He wouldn't have, if it weren't for you. You drove him to it."
Rita: "You seem to have conveniently forgotten he was alive all those years and you didn't even know. That shows how much he REALLY thought about you. He was thinking of himself, just like he always had."
Jenny: "Why, you...!"

Jenny went for her and pulled her hair. Rita fought back and slapped Jenny's face. Jenny attacked her again. Fred rushed out and saw the fight. He pulled Jenny off and held her tightly.

Fred: "That's enough!"
Jenny: "Get your hands off me, fatty! This is between me and her!"
Fred: "This is your father's funeral. You don't have much respect for him, do you?"
Jenny: "Let me go so I can finish what he started."
Fred: "I'll let you go and you'll walk away."
Jenny: "Or what?"
Fred: "I'll break your ribs."
Jenny: "Like hell you will!"
Fred: "I'm a butcher by trade, young lady. I may be fat, but I'm also very strong. You want to let me show you?"
Jenny: "All right! I'll go. Now, let me go."
Fred: "Okay."

He did. Jenny straightened her clothes and walked out of the gate.

Fred: "Are you okay?"
Rita: "I've been better. Like father, like daughter. After everything I did for that girl."
Fred: "Rita."
Rita: "I should've know she'd turn out like this when she started lying to me all those years ago to cover for her father's
activities, as well as her own."
Fred: "Rita."
Rita: "I hope that's the last I'll ever see of that little madam. She'll end up like him if she doesn't get her act together. Wouldn't be surprised if she's already been in prison."
Fred: "Rita, will you shut up a minute, please?"
Rita: "What?"
Fred: "I've decided. I value your honesty. It couldn't have been easy for you to tell me all that."
Rita: "It wasn't. But I owed it to you."
Fred: "Well, I'd still like us to get wed."
Rita: "Are you sure?"
Fred: "You need protecting."
Rita: "I think you're right. I'm too old for catfights with anyone, never mind a slip of a girl like that."
Fred: "You didn't do too bad for yourself."
Rita: "I was imagining she was her father."
Fred: "I want to be able to trust you, Rita."
Rita: "Fred, I love you. I respect you. I promise, every vow I take I'll mean. I won't let you down. If I do, you can divorce me and I'll give you all my money."
Fred: "I wouldn't go that far."
Rita: "I would. I want to make you as happy as you make me. I'll show it's you I only want. And, I'll start right now. Let's go home."
Fred: "Right. I'll drop you back at the flat-"
Rita: "NO, Fred."
Fred: "I don't get you."
Rita: "I think you do."
Fred: "What about all that waiting till after we're married?"
Rita: "Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. Time to start with a clean slate. Yes?"
Fred: "I'm all for that."
Rita: "Right. So for a start, we can forget my daft ideas from the past."
Fred: "Are you sure?"
Rita: "As long as you don't crush me."
Fred: "I'll do my best."
Rita: (smiles) "Then I'm sure."
Fred: "Oh, Rita."

They snogged passionately, then Fred drove them back to the Rovers.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 20

The following morning, Fred went down for breakfast feeling like the cat who'd got the cream.

Fred: "I was going to make breakfast for you, Rita."
Rita: "Should've got up earlier then."
Fred: "It's far too early."
Rita: "Just gone seven."
Fred: "It's the middle of the night!"
Rita: "Well, I suppose it's all those decades of getting up to do the papers."
Fred: "How long have you been awake?"
Rita: "Since five. But I got up twenty minutes ago."
Fred: "Come here."

She went over and put her arms around his neck. They kissed.

Rita: "This dressing gown's hanging off me."
Fred: "Bring something of your own over next time."
Rita: "Who said there'd be a next time?"
Fred: "Oh."
Rita: "Only kidding. Eh, what did you tell Mavis? I forgot to ask."
Fred: "Mind on other things, were it?"
Rita: "You could say that."
Fred: "I told her you'd had an upset over that Jenny."
Rita: "And I've got the black eye to prove it."
Fred: "Folk'll think I did that."
Rita: "Don't worry about it. I've had enough practice patching things over. No one'll even see it."
Fred: "I hope not."
Rita: "They won't. I look like half a panda."
Fred: "You still look lovely to me."
Rita: "When was the last time you had your eyes tested?"
Fred: "Why?"
Rita: "You don't see too well. I look a right sight."
Fred: "Stop putting yourself down, Rita. You're still a very handsome woman. Much more than most round here."
Rita: "Ah, but as you're not marrying most, you're biased."
Fred: "Course I am."
Rita: "I'm glad we got everything sorted yesterday."
Fred: "So am I."
Rita: "I really do love you, you know."
Fred: "You proved that all yesterday afternoon and last night."
Rita: "You didn't do too bad yourself."
Fred: "I wish you'd not rejected me all those years ago."
Rita: "It would've failed. It was all wrong then. Mind you, neither of us would have made complete idiots of oursleves with other people."
Fred: "No. Still, we got there eventually. You know what they say."
Rita: "Better late than miserable."
Fred: "Do you ever have a serious conversation?"
Rita: "Not often, no. Certainly not when I'm happy."
Fred: "What are you going to say to Mavis when you go home?"
Rita: "I'll lie. I got quite good at that."
Fred: "Why not tell her the truth?"
Rita: "Because she'll drive me crackers with her disapproving looks and tutting. I know her of old, remember? Well, maybe you're right. I'll test the water first though."
Fred: "Why don't we go back upstairs? The others won't be here for another few hours."
Rita: "Frederick Handel Elliott. You're a sex maniac, do you know that?"
Fred: "Aye."
Rita: "Well...it'll pass the time, I suppose until I face Mavis."
Fred: "If things had worked out better, we would still be on our honeymoon."
Rita: "So we would. Oh, well. That's different. What are we waiting for?"
Fred: "Once we're wed, I'm going to carry you over that threshold."
Rita: "You will not. I'm not having you put your back out."
Fred: "You're everything in the world to me, Rita. I still can't believe soon I'll be making an honest woman of you."
Rita: "Must be 'Help a Scarlet Woman Week', or something."
Fred: "And I'm only too willing to do my bit."
Rita: "I like the, 'honest woman' bit. Apt, considering I've not been."
Fred: "You are now, and that's what matters."
Rita: "Yes."
Fred: "I love you very much, Rita."
Rita: "And I love you, Elliott. Now, are we going to stay here all day?"
Fred: "Come on, then."
Rita: "Thought you were too frozen to move like I was getting."
Fred: "I'll soon warm you up."
Rita: "Cheeky."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 21

The 25th February arrived. Rita was sleeping off the night before. Mavis crept into the room and placed a cup of tea on the bedside table. She gently shook her.

Mavis: "Come on, Rita. Time to wake up."
Rita: "Go away and leave me to sleep."
Mavis: "I will not. Your snoring's going right through me."
Rita: "I don't snore!"
Mavis: "I'll tape you sometime."
Rita: "I never heard anything."
Mavis: "You wouldn't. Brought you a nice cup of tea."
Rita: "Urgh. I feel sick."
Mavis: "Do you want me to get you something to make you feel better?"
Rita: "Are you trying to poison me?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "How much did I drink last night?"
Mavis: "Too much. It was quite a night."
Rita: "I'm getting too old for this. What time is it?"
Mavis: "Just gone eleven. I thought I'd let you sleep."
Rita: "I want to die."
Mavis: "And what would Fred say about that?"
Rita: "And what's Fred got to do with it?"
Mavis: "You're marrying him today."
Rita: "Oh, yeah. I completely forget."
Mavis: "Three o'clock."
Rita: "Well, wake me up nearer the time."
Mavis: "I'll do no such thing."

Rita rolled over and closed her eyes. Mavis wasn't going to give up. She went and pulled back the curtains. Rita squinted.

Rita: "You ARE trying to kill me! Shut out the light!"
Mavis: "Do it yourself. Oh, by the way, happy birthday."
Rita: "Drop dead!"

She pulled the covers over her.

Mavis: "Oh, no, you don't."

Mavis pulled them off.

Rita: "Oi!"
Mavis: "You get them if you want them."

Rita tried to move, but her head felt like lead. She grabbed a pillow and covered her face with it. Mavis took that too.

Rita: "All right, Mavis. Give us a minute, and I'll get up."
Mavis: "I'm not going anywhere until you're on your feet."
Rita: "I said I'll get up."
Mavis: "Do it then."
Rita: "In a minute."
Mavis: "No. Now."

She got hold of Rita's ankles and pulled her down the bed.

Rita: "Hey! Get off!"
Mavis: "It's the only way to get you moving."
Rita: "You're lucky I haven't the energy to kick you."
Mavis: "Are you going to get up? You have a big day ahead."
Rita: "Yes! Oooh. Don't make me shout."
Mavis: "Stop being so aggravating then."
Rita: "Have you no respect for the dying?"
Mavis: "Perhaps if it wasn't self-inflicted. I'm feeling delicate myself, you know. You don't hear me complaining."
Rita: "Only because you're too busy nagging me."

Rita took a deep breath and pushed herself up slowly with one hand, while clutching her exploding head with the other. She slouched on the side, looked at Mavis, who raised and eyebrow, and sighed in defeat. She started to stand, but flopped back down again.

Rita: "Looks like you'll have to help me."
Mavis: "About time."
Rita: "Oh, shut up, Wilton. And go easy or my head'll drop off."
Mavis: "It won't."
Rita: "Feels like it will."

Mavis gently helped her hungover friend up. Rita tried to steady herself, but put a hand over her mouth and staggered to the bathroom. Mavis followed.

Mavis: "Rita?"

She grimaced at the noises from the other side of the door. She knocked and went in when she got no answer. She saw Rita perched on the side of the bath looking very ill. She got her a glass of water.

Mavis: "Drink this."
Rita: "I don't think I can keep it down."
Mavis: "Try."
Rita: "Okay. Must've been something I ate."
Mavis: "More likely the vodka, champagne, tequila-"
Rita: "I hate tequila."
Mavis: "Didn't look that way last night."
Rita: "It's worse than I thought."
Mavis: "How are you feeling?"
Rita: "A bit better."
Mavis: "Think you'll be all right this afternoon?"
Rita: "I'll be there, even if you have to hold me up. Oooh, never again."
Mavis: "Why don't I believe that?"
Rita: "You're probably right. What happened last night?"
Mavis: "You don't remember dancing on the coffee table and taking your clothes off?"
Rita: "I didn't, did I?"
Mavis: "No. Well, you kept your clothes on anyway."
Rita: "I've never done owt like that before. I was right. I am getting too old for this lark."
Mavis: "Coming into the lounge?"
Rita: "I think I'll stay here. Closer to the sink if I need it."
Mavis: "I wonder how Fred is this morning."
Rita: "Sober no doubt. Sponge on legs, that one."

The intercom buzzed. Mavis went to see to it.

Rita: "Whoever it is, tell them I'm dead!"

She poured herself another glass of water and sipped. Mavis reappeared.

Rita: "Well? Who was it?"
Mavis: "Jenny."
Rita: "Jenny? What the hell does she want?"
Mavis: "To talk to you. Shall I tell her it's inconvenient?"
Rita: "Yes. No. Wait a minute. After what happened at the crem, she'll probably think I'm afraid to face her. Not to mention believing the crap she spouted about her father is true." (sighs) "You'd better let her up."
Mavis: "If that's what you want."
Rita: "What I want is academic, since you wouldn't let me have it. Go on. Let's get it over with."
Mavis: "Isn't that what you'll be saying to Fred tonight?"
Rita: "As soon as I'm up to it, Wilton, your head's going down that toilet."
Mavis: "By the time you feel up to it, Sullivan, I'll be long back in Cartmel."
Rita: "I'm not that decrepit just yet."
Mavis: "Sure about that?"
Rita: "Yes! Mind, it is taking longer to get over hangovers these days."
Mavis: "And quicker to get pie-eyed."
Rita: "'Pie-eyed'? You keep using antiquated slang like that, Mavis, and I WILL start to feel past it."
Mavis: "Thought you were already."
Rita: "Aha. You've forgotten Dev. That showed I've still got it. What? No comment? Go and get the door, then. With any luck, she'd have got fed up and gone."
Mavis: "Don't act like Dev was something to be proud of, Rita."
Rita: "I'm not. But it were fun while it lasted. Cheers."

She winked at Mavis and swallowed more water. She strained to hear what Mavis was saying and her face fell when she heard the door open. She had some more water and wished she didn't have such a headache.

Jenny: "Hello, Rita. You look terrible."
Rita: "Thanks. You've seen better days yourself. What do you want?"
Jenny: "I've come to talk to you."
Rita: "I gathered that. Look, I may have a thick head, but I've still got all me marbles. You won't pull the wool over my eyes, lady."
Jenny: "I don't intend to. Why do you look so bad? Are you ill?"
Rita: "Dying."
Mavis: "Hungover."
Rita: "Same thing. Why have you come today?"
Jenny: "Does it matter what day it is?"
Rita: "Yes. Why not yesterday? Or last week? This is the second visit from a Bradley I've had on the day I'm due to marry Fred. Coincidence?"
Jenny: "I forgot all about that. I know it's your birthday today."
Rita: "So it is(!)"
Jenny: "Happy birthday."
Rita: "Thanks(!)"
Jenny: "So, that makes you now-"
Rita: "Over twenty-one."
Mavis: "Well over."
Rita: "Thirty's not that much older."
Mavis: "No one's getting any younger, Rita."
Rita: "I know."
Mavis: "How old are you today?"
Rita: "Twenty-nine."
Mavis: "Oh, you ARE getting younger."
Rita: "Haven't you got something to do?"
Mavis: "No."
Rita: "Oh. So, you're going to annoy me all day?"
Mavis: "Yes. It's my mission in life."
Rita: "I guessed that."
Jenny: "Can't hold your drink, huh?"
Mavis: "She held it very well and hardly spilt a drop."
Rita: "Since when did you become so witty?"
Mavis: "I don't know. Nice to see you on the receiving end and stumped for a retort for a change."
Rita: "It won't last."
Mavis: "Didn't think it would."
Rita: "What do you want, Jenny?"
Jenny: "I've come to apologise for the way I behaved at me dad's funeral."
Rita: "Big of you(!)"
Jenny: "I was angry with me dad, not you."
Rita: "Looked that way(!)"
Jenny: "You didn't exactly help matters by making all that noise whenever the vicar spoke."
Rita: "Who wrote that rubbish? Aesop?"
Jenny: "The vicar did. I just gave him some information."
Rita: "Covering up as usual. I might have known."
Jenny: "What would it have mattered, Rita? I was expecting to be the only one there."
Rita: "You told him what you wanted to hear, lady. Even when you knew what your father was doing with that Carole Burns. Or what he did by trying to kill me. You still refused to face reality. You not only started lying to me, but also to yourself."
Jenny: "You think I don't know that? It wasn't easy to accept, Rita. He was my dad. I loved him. I loved you an' all."
Rita: "Well, you certainly showed how much by asking for thirty grand, didn't you?"
Jenny: "I was younger then. We all do things we regret."
Rita: "I don't think so. You'd seen I was a soft-touch with your dad so you banked on me being the same with you."
Jenny: "You're right. That reminds me."

She delved into her bag and pulled out a piece of paper.

Rita: "What's that?"
Jenny: "The money you gave me. A thousand pounds plus interest."
Rita: "Probably bounce."
Jenny: "It won't. Here."
Rita: "You take it, Mavis."
Jenny: "There's plenty of money in my account to cover it."
Rita: "Should I be grateful?"
Jenny: "That's up to you. Look, I know how much I hurt you, Rita.
You were the best friend I ever had and I threw that friendship away. You did so much for me, Rita. I'd have been even more of a mess when me mum died if you hadn't taken me in. I've changed since we fell out all those years ago. I've got me own business now, flying all over the world. I'd never have got that if you hadn't forced me to do my A-levels to go to university."
Rita: "It was the Poly."
Jenny: "Same difference. I wanted to pay you back and show your faith in me didn't go to waste."
Rita: "You still haven't answered my question. Why today?"
Jenny: "All right. Yes, I did remember you were getting married today. I'm off to Stockholm at the weekend, so this'd be the last chance I got before you went on your honeymoon. If I'd left it till after I got back, it'd be too late."
Rita: "How long will you be there for?"
Jenny: "Two months."
Rita: "I see what you mean."
Jenny: "I came several times before, but always backed out."
Rita: "If you're after being left something in my will, you can forget it."
Jenny: "I'm not. I don't need your money. I'll show you my bank statements if you like. I'm not here for that. Like I said, it was me dad I was angry with. You're right. He didn't care about me. He used me when he wanted something as much as he used you. We were both stupid."
Rita: "I'll drink to that, even if it is only water. Is that all you want?"
Jenny: "No. I want us to be friends again."
Rita: "You have got to be kidding!"
Jenny: "I know it'll not be easy and I have to earn your trust. But I'm willing to do anything, Rita."
Rita: "I don't know if we can go back, Jenny."
Mavis: "Rita."
Rita: "I know, Mavis!"
Jenny: "What? Is there something you're not telling me?"
Rita: "No. Time's getting on and I have to start getting ready, that's all."
Jenny: "Okay."
Rita: "I'll have to think long and hard about it."
Jenny: "That's understandable, after the way I behaved."
Rita: "We all do stupid things. Part of life."
Mavis: "And you should know if anyone does."
Rita: "Good job I've finished this water, Wilton, or I'd pour it over your head."
Mavis: "Feeling better, are we?"
Rita: "If you mean, am I up to smashing your face in? Just about."
Jenny: "I'll leave you to it."
Rita: "Come back when you get back and we'll talk some more."
Jenny: "Okay. Is it all right if I keep in touch? You don't have to with me."
Rita: "Aye, go on then."
Jenny: "I hope you're very happy. You deserve to be."
Rita: "Thanks."
Jenny: "And that fiancé of yours IS flipping strong. Doesn't look it, does he?"
Rita: "Full of surprises, is Fred."
Jenny: "Take care, Rita."
Rita: "And you."
Jenny: "Drink plenty of water. Best cure for a hangover."
Rita: "I'll float to the registry office!"
Jenny: "More enviromentally friendly. See you."
Rita: "Bye."

Mavis let Jenny out then returned to Rita, giving her disapproving looks.

Rita: "What?"
Mavis: "You're falling for it again."
Rita: "I am not."
Mavis: "Don't do anything stupid, Rita."
Rita: "I won't. Like she said, she has to earn my trust."
Mavis: "What about the cheque?"
Rita: "Bribe? Something to try and take me in? I don't know. I'll be careful. Isn't it time we were getting ready?"
Mavis: "About time!"
Rita: "Oh, shut up, and get me a banana."
Mavis: "A banana?"
Rita: "Yeah. Full of nourishment, give me energy and light on the stomach. Well, you'll only nag me to eat so I'll force meself."
Mavis: "It's going to be a wonderful day, Rita. You and Fred are made for each other."
Rita: "The trouble with some women, Mavis, is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him. Isn't that what you did with Derek?"
Mavis: "I'll get your banana."
Rita: "Thank you."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 22

At the Rovers, Fred was feeling almost as bad as Rita. He couldn't believe he'd had his second stag night in a month and hoped nothing would go wrong this time.

Ashley: "Only three hours to go now."
Fred: "Don't remind me."
Ashley: "I thought you were looking forward to marrying Rita."
Fred: "I am. I just hope I'll not still be feeling like this."
Ashley: "Hair of the dog's what you need."
Fred: "I'd rather try and keep a clear head. Nothing'll go wrong this time, will it?"
Ashley: "Course not."
Fred: "Phone Rita."
Ashley: "What for?"
Fred: "See how she is."
Ashley: "See if she'll be there, you mean."
Fred: "No! Well, yes."
Ashley: "She'll be there."
Fred: "Thought that last time."
Ashley: "That wasn't her fault."
Fred: "No. Phone her though. Talk to Mavis if you have to."
Ashley: "If it'll stop you fretting, okay, then."

He got up and opened the door, surprised to see Dev the other side about to knock.

Ashley: "Hello, Dev. Go on in. You might cheer you up."
Dev: "Thanks. How you doing today, Fred?"
Fred: "Ohhhh."
Dev: "That bad, eh?"
Fred: "I'm glad you're here. I want a word with you while our Ashley's out of t'road."
Dev: "What about?"
Fred: "Rita's told me everything."
Dev: "What do you mean, 'everything'?"
Fred: "About you and her. Including what happened while I were out with Mavis."
Dev: "I see. And you still want to marry her?"
Fred: "I love her."
Dev: "So do I."
Fred: "You can't do. She's too old for you."
Dev: "Older or not, Fred, I do. I know we've got no future, unlike you two. You can give her what I can't in a relationship. Stability."
Fred: "Aye, I can that."
Dev: "And you don't have wandering eyes. You're happy with your lot."
Fred: "That I am."
Dev: "If someone had told me a woman thirty-two years older than me would be the love of my life, I'd have thought they were crazy. But, you don't have to worry, Fred. It is definitely over. Rita wants you anyway."
Fred: "There's no chance you and she'll..."
Dev: "Not one. Not that I wouldn't jump at it if you weren't in the picture. You are, so I'll leave her alone."
Fred: "At least you're honest about it."
Dev: "Me and Rita had a long talk last time. But if you hurt her while I'm around, I'll hurt you."
Fred: "I won't."
Dev: "I know you won't."
Ashley: "Rita's fine. Hungover, but Mavis'll make sure she gets there."
Fred: "Good.
Ashley: "Though she did have a visitor a short while ago."
Fred: "Who?"
Ashley: "That Jenny girl."
Fred: "What did she want?"
Ashley: "To get things back they were with Rita."
Fred: "What does Rita say?"
Ashley: "According to Mavis, she says Jenny's got to earn her trust."
Fred: "And?"
Ashley: "Mavis thinks she will."
Fred: "Over my dead body. I say, over my dead body. I'll talk to Rita about it later."
Dev: "I'll leave you to it. I'll see you at the registry office."
Fred: "Aye."
Dev: "Everything will go without a hitch, Fred. Trust me."
Fred: "I do."
Dev: "See you later. And try and sort out those bloodshot eyes."

Dev slapped Fred on the back and left. Fred felt uneasy, wondering if he'd try something.

Five minutes to three and Fred was waiting yet again for Rita, with Ashley by his side.

Fred: "She's not coming."
Ashley: "Don't start that again. Course she is."
Fred: "Look at the time! We said we'd meet outside at quarter-to."
Ashley: "She'll be here."
Fred: "What if summat's happened like last time?"
Ashley: "It won't have done."
Fred: "Why did she change her mind about us coming together?"
Emily: "There's a taxi coming."
Fred: "Is it?"
Ashley: "Aye. So stop flapping and calm down. Told you she'd come."

The taxi stopped in front of them. Fred went to open the door. Mavis got out first followed by Rita looking radiant in fuchsia. They kissed and he slammed the door.

Rita: "Bet you thought I wasn't coming."
Fred: "Never crossed my mind."
Ashley: "No. And it never crossed his mind these past ten minutes neither."
Rita: "The taxi turned up late. Told you I'd be here."
Fred: "Aye, you did. You look wonderful, Rita."
Rita: "Well, this is the best birthday present I'm ever likely to get. So, I thought I'd best make an effort."
Fred: "Shall we go and do the deed?"
Rita: "I'd be honoured."

Fred crooked his arm and she put hers through it. They all followed them inside. Less than 25 minutes later, they emerged. Rita was finally Mrs Elliott and Fred was the happiest man alive. Dev found it difficult to sit through the ceremony, but he promised he wouldn't do anything and he didn't. He wanted more than anything for it to have been him today, but had to try and let her go.

Fred: "Happy, Mrs Elliott?"
Rita: "Miserable as hell, Mr Elliott."
Fred: "That's the ticket. No regrets?"
Rita: "We've only been married five minutes."
Fred: "Some have lasted less time."
Rita: "Not ours."
Fred: "Definitely not ours. This is the best day of my life, Rita. And that's all down to you."
Rita: "Mine too. Especially since it took my mind off being another year older."
Fred: "I've got a surprise for you later."
Rita: "I love surprises. What is it?"
Fred: "That'll be telling. You'll find out soon enough."
Rita: "Can't wait."
Mavis: "Sorry to interrupt, but the photographer's getting impatient."
Fred: "He's not the only one."

Rita nudged him in the ribs then they all posed. Dev hoped his smile didn't look forced when they came out. Afterwards, they all got into waiting taxis and headed for the Rovers. Fred was unhappy it was held there, but Rita insisted. She told him he'd spent too much already, and the pub was good enough.
After the speeches and cake cutting, Rita went into the back room. Fred noticed Dev slip past everyone and follow her. His heart sank, but decided to listen outside the door anyway. He wanted so much to trust her, but couldn't help fearing the worst.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 23

In the back room, Rita was sitting on the sofa while Dev sat in a chair.

Rita: "Did anyone see you come in?"
Dev: "No. They're all too drunk."
Rita: "You can't stay long. We'll be missed."
Dev: "I won't. I haven't had a chance to talk to you today. I saw you leave the bar so thought it was the perfect opportunity."
Rita: "What do you want?"
Dev: "Fred and I had a little chat this morning."
Rita: "Oh?"
Dev: "When did you come clean?"
Rita: "Ah."
Dev: "Indeed."
Rita: "I didn't think he'd say anything, since it was at Alan's funeral."
Dev: "That was weeks ago."
Rita: "I know. I thought he'd have mentioned it sooner."
Dev: "You went to such extraordinary lengths to keep it from him."
Rita: "I know."
Dev: "So, why?"
Rita: "I couldn't lie to him anymore, simple as that. I love him."
Dev: "Come on, Rita. We both know you don't."
Rita: "I do."
Dev: "You told me that once before, remember? Like you also told me you slept with him. Neither of which were true."
Rita: "Not then, no. You know why I said those things. Pretty effective at the time."
Dev: "You wanted to end it."
Rita: "Exactly. And you didn't. You wanted marriage."
Dev: "I still do. But, I know I have to steer clear. Doesn't mean we won't stop loving each other."
Rita: "That's where you're wrong, Dev. I don't love you anymore. I love my husband."
Dev: "Rubbish. I know you're only saying this so you won't hurt me."
Rita: "Dev, you never accepted anything I said, did you? That was always part of the problem. Why we had no future. We're finished, Dev. What would I have to gain now?"
Dev: "Rita, you know how much we meant to each other. Still mean to each other."
Rita: "NO, Dev. I never loved you."
Dev: "Course you did."
Rita: "You came along when I needed someone most. It wasn't love, Dev. It was stupidity. MY stupidity. You saw how I was. My so-called friends had virtually abandoned me when I needed them most."
Dev: "Including Fred."
Rita: "Including Fred. I was lonely. You pushed all the right buttons and I felt wanted. Needed. But I told you at the start I didn't love you."
Dev: "I remember."
Rita: "You wanted to carry on."
Dev: "So did you."
Rita: "It took my mind of everything. No strings. Your idea."
Dev: "You don't have to remind me about that."
Rita: "But you were getting heavy."
Dev: "Of course I did. I love you, Rita. I was fed up with secret meetings. I wanted everyone to know about us. You didn't. Even when you ended it, you still couldn't stop yourself. Twice."
Rita: "We both know they were mistakes."
Dev: "You enjoyed it at the time."
Rita: "That's beside the point. I'm an old woman. You're a young man. Your interest in me did wonders for my ego at a time when I was lower than I'd ever been. Any other time, I'd have shown you the door."
Dev: "You told me you loved me. Just four days before you were meant to marry Fred last month."
Rita: "I know what I told you. I also said I'd never be unfaithful to him."
Dev: "Several times. I never doubted that, Rita. You were faithful to me."
Rita: "Was I?"
Dev: "You never slept with Fred."
Rita: "Not Fred, no."
Dev: "What?"
Rita: "I betrayed you too, Dev."
Dev: "No, you didn't."
Rita: "I did. Fred knows. I told him when I told him about us."
Dev: "You're making this up to get rid of me."
Rita: "Why would I do that? As I said, we're history. I've got nothing to gain, have I?"
Dev: "Who?"
Rita: "Norris."
Dev: "Norris? Now I know you're lying."
Rita: "Remember that night I had him over for dinner? You were supposed to be staying the night."
Dev: "I don't believe you."
Rita: "Ask Norris. He's out in the bar."
Dev: "You lied to me as well?"
Rita: "Yes. I was making a habit of that. I don't love you, Dev. You excited me. I mistook lust for love. It's not like that with Fred. He's everything I need and want. He helped me get through all this. The depression. The suicide attempt."
Dev: "And I didn't help?"
Rita: "You got me into bed! The problem was always there. You were a distraction from pondering on everything. Fred talks to me. You only wanted one thing to take my mind off anything."
Dev: "You didn't complain."
Rita: "Because I didn't want to think about how messed up my life was. I fell in love with Fred. Alan's death brought that wall down. I risked everything by telling him about us. But I don't regret a thing. Fred's shown me real love. He makes no demands. Considers my feelings. He's not possessive."
Dev: "Jealousy?"
Rita: "Oh, he gets jealous, but not like you. If he's hurt, he talks to me. You start shouting."
Dev: "You married him to run away from what we feel for each other."
Rita: "I married him because I love him. Yes, I was afraid of Alan, so I agreed. Alan's dead. I could've broken it off. He expected me to because he didn't help me. I want Fred. I have him now as my husband."
Dev: "You haven't slept with him yet. He'll be a huge disappointment after me."
Rita: "You really have got a very high opinion of yourself, haven't you? Fred and me HAVE slept together."
Dev: "When?"
Rita: "That's none of your business."
Dev: "You haven't."
Rita: "The day of Alan's funeral. We came back here and I left at nine the next morning. And it wasn't the last time. I'll tell you this for nowt, Dev. I prefer him to you. Not just in the bedroom, but the little things like being together and enjoying each other's company. That's love, Dev. When we were together, you were only after one thing. That's lust. I'm just another notch on your bedpost to you. You've had younger women. Now you've had an older one. I don't think I'll be the last."
Dev: "Rita-"
Rita: "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have things to do. Enjoy the party."

Fred quickly dashed up the stairs no neither would see him. He was relieved Rita had been totally honest with him and had kept nothing back. He felt terrible for doubting her at all. If he had any doubts of how Rita really felt about him before they were gone now. He heard the door open and close, waited about a minute, then went downstairs to be with her. He wondered if she'd mention her chat with Dev or not.

Rita: "Hello, sweetheart."
Fred: "So this is where you're hiding. I thought you'd left me."
Rita: "Damn! You've caught me about to write you a note."
Fred: "What are you doing in here?"
Rita: "I couldn't breathe in there. Still hungover from last night."
Fred: "I know the feeling."

He sat next to her and they put their arms around each other. Rita snuggled into him, her hand on his stomach.

Rita: "It's so noisy in there. I couldn't think either."
Fred: "It's been a grand day though."
Rita: "I second that. I only wanted some peace and quiet for a few minutes. Then Dev came in."
Fred: "Dev?"
Rita: "I told him about Norris."
Fred: "What did he say?"
Rita: "Don't think he believed me. Told him a few other things an' all, which I should've months ago. I think he's got the message."
Fred: "About time."
Rita: "True. I wish they'd all go home."
Fred: "We can't chuck them out."
Rita: "Can't we?"
Fred: "They're paying for our honeymoon."
Rita: "Oh, well. In that case, better have a lock-in so they'll pay for the hotel as well."
Fred: "Now why didn't I think of that?"
Rita: "Only half a brain. Now you've married me, you're complete."
Fred: "I wondered why I felt different."
Rita: "You do realise that lot out there are thinking all sorts about the absence of the bride and groom."
Fred: "They can think what they like."
Rita: "They'll never believe we're just sitting here talking."
Fred: "Does it bother you?"
Rita: "Not a bit. Now, didn't you say something earlier about a surprise?"
Fred: "Oh, aye. I'd forgotten all about that."
Rita: "Well?"
Fred: "Do you want to get away from everyone out there?"
Rita: "Are you kidding?"
Fred: "Well, you can."
Rita: "Great!"
Fred: "There's just one condition. You take me with you."
Rita: "I would if I knew where I was going."
Fred: "How would you feel about Venice?"
Rita: "Who's going to Venice?"
Fred: "We are."
Rita: "What?"
Fred: "It hasn't got any memories for you, has it?"
Rita: "No. I don't understand. Fred, we're going on a cruise in three months time."
Fred: "I know. That's our honeymoon."
Rita: "Where did Venice come from?"
Fred: "It's your birthday present."
Rita: "My what? Fred."
Fred: "Look, Rita. I hadn't got you anything. We've been so wrapped up with the wedding your birthday got overlooked."
Rita: "I prefer it that way."
Fred: "Okay. Well, how about, the next one is erased from our minds?"
Rita: "Perfect."
Fred: "But, that's after this one."
Rita: "How long will we be away?"
Fred: "Not against the idea now?"
Rita: "I don't care where I am, as long as I'm with you, Fred."
Fred: "Ten days. Our flight's in a few hours."
Rita: "Better start packing then."
Fred: "It's done."
Rita: "What?"
Fred: "I asked Mavis to do yours and bring the case round here."
Rita: "You devious swine."
Fred: "It was Mavis's idea. Blame her. Mind, I thought it was a good one."
Rita: "You two plotting behind my back."
Fred: "I wanted it to be a surprise."
Rita: "It was that, all right."
Fred: "I'm sorry, Rita. I love you and wanted to make today extra special."
Rita: "I know you did, love. And you have. It was a lovely thought. It just reminded me, that's all."
Fred: "Are we still going?"
Rita: "Course we are."
Fred: "I know it's naughty, but shall we call a taxi and go now?"
Rita: "Yes. Sod that lot. But what will they think if we disappear without a word?"
Fred: "That's a point. I did have one booked already."
Rita: "Best leave it as it is. We'll go back out there, then leave when it's time."
Fred: "I've asked them to wait in Rosamund Street. We can sneak out the back."
Rita: "We'll do that. Just let me know when it's nearly time."
Fred: "Back to the mob?"
Rita: "Back to the mob."

They kissed, then returned to the bar hand in hand. As soon as they appeared, the comments and whistles started as they said they would. The party continued. Mavis was busy chatting with Emily when a waiter bumped into her.

Mavis: "Please be careful. Carlos!"
Carlos: "Mavees! What are you doeeng here?"
Mavis: "I was going to ask you the same question."
Carlos: "Meester Elliott hire waiters for hees party."
Mavis: "I thought you'd gone back to Spain."
Carlos: "No. I stay here."
Mavis: "How are you? Are you married?"
Carlos: "No. My wife, she die. You?"
Mavis: "My husband died too."
Carlos: "I am sorry."
Mavis: "Thank you."
Carlos: "I never forget you, Mavees."
Mavis: "I never forgot you, Carlos."
Rita: "Picking up waiters now, Mavis? Never knew you were that desperate."
Mavis: "I'm not picking up anyone, Rita. We bumped into each other. Literally."
Rita: "I see. I told Fred a buffet would do and we could help ourselves to the booze, but he insisted."
Mavis: "You were a long time out eh back."
Rita: "We were talking. We do that, you know. I know it's a radical idea, but we always were a bit strange."
Mavis: "You're not strange, Rita. You're insane."
Rita: "Hey, insanity's my only means of relaxation. Reflexology's yours."
Mavis: "Depends on who's doing it."
Rita: "Oooh, Something I should know?"
Mavis: "Nothing. Anyway, I thought Fred helped you relax these days."
Rita: "Don't be kinky. By the way, he's told me about Venice. I gather it was your idea."
Mavis: "Well, I asked what he was going to get for your birthday. Typical man he patently is, he said he never thought about it. We'd discussed Venice for the honeymoon, but he wanted something grand."
Rita: "He never believes in doing things by halves."
Mavis: "So, after he sorted the honeymoon, he booked that."
Rita: "He is sweet. Hey, Mavis. Why's that waiter staring at me?"
Mavis: "I don't know."
Rita: "Does he look like Norris to you? Or do I need specs?"
Mavis: "I never thought about it, Rita. He does, doesn't he?"
Carlos: "I am sorry, Mees Leetlewood. Eet ees, Mees Leetlewood, eesn't eet?"
Rita: "Flipping heck! That's going back some. Do I know you?"
Carlos: "Carlos. I was a friend of Mavees."
Rita: "Oh, that's right."
Mavis: "This is Rita's wedding."
Carlos: "You get marreed? Congratulation."
Rita: "Thank you. By the way, it's my third."
Carlos: "Oh."
Rita: "And last."
Mavis: "I doubt that."
Rita: "I'll leave you to it. Be good, Mavis." (winks)
Mavis: "I'm never anything else."
Rita: "What a boring life you must have. I'll say goodbye now, in case I don't get a chance later."
Mavis: "What do you mean? Aren't you going to say a word?"
Rita: "No. We just want to go off quietly. You can tell them later. Give us a chance to get in the air first though."
Mavis: "I will. Or try to. You know what they're like round here."
Rita: "Yeah. They'll see us gone again and think we've sneaked upstairs."
Mavis: "If they do, can I say something then?"
Rita: "Sure."
Fred: "Rita!"
Rita: "Coming! Ooh, he's so masterful when he wants to be." (leaves)
Carlos: "She ees lookeeng good."
Mavis: "For her age? It's her birthday today."
Carlos: "Ees eet? How old ees she?"
Mavis: "Old enough. So, how long have you been a waiter?"
Carlos: "Too long now. I retire soon."
Mavis: "What will you do?"
Carlos: "I not know. I like to work."
Mavis: "I own a place in Cartmel."
Carlos: "Where ees that?"
Mavis: "The Lake District. It can get very busy. I was wondering if you'd like to work for me?"
Carlos: "I dun't know. Tell me more about eet."

A while later, Rita and Fred picked up their cases, left by the back door and went to the airport. They had a wonderful time in Venice. Mavis returned to Cartmel with Carlos in tow to wait on tables. Norris moved into Rita's flat until they got back to keep an eye on it before she moved the rest of her things into the Rovers. Rita met with Jenny and decided to let bygones be bygones against Fred's constant objections. She explained to him she was on her guard as she still didn't trust Jenny's motives. Rita and Fred went on their honeymoon cruise and, when they returned, lived happily ever after.


The End

Patsy