Beyond The Street

[RitaLittlewood]

What follows was my very first Corrie fan fiction. It's an early product of my over-active imagination and originally written on the 24th-26th March 1990...

Part 1

Welcome to something completely different. This is, Beyond The Street, the bits of Coronation Street no one will ever see. It's a sort of behind-the-scenes concerning the characters everyone knows and loves (except Percy Sugden).

We begin in the Rovers. The time is early evening and everyone is dying for a drink.

Rita: "Vodka and slimline please, Bet."
Bet: "Certainly."
Rita: "Hello, Mavis."
Mavis: "Ooh, hello, Rita."
Rita: "Derek not with you?"
Mavis: "No. He's in the flat wondering if the new curtains and carpets will clash with his suit."
Rita: "Can I get you a drink?"
Mavis: "Ooh, thank you, Rita. I'll have a sweet sherry please."
Bet: "Here y'are. One vodka and slimline."
Rita: "And a sweet sherry too please, Bet."
Bet: "Sure."
Rita: "All set for your move tomorrow then?"
Mavis: "Just about. I'm looking forward to having my own little home. And if Derek hadn't got his promotion, we would be still in the flat."
Rita: "True."
Bet: "Here y'are, Mave, love."
Mavis: "Thank you, Bet."
Rita: (pays) "Cheers."

Don and Ivy Brennan were sat at a table having a slight disagreement over money.

Ivy: "But it's the only way, Don."
Don: "No. I won't have it."
Ivy: "It's not you that'll be having it though. It'll be me."
Don: "I'll find another job."
Ivy: "When, Don? You've got a record, and one that'll never go to number one either."
Don: "I know I've got a record. But I'll find something."
Ivy: "And while you're looking, we'll lose our home."
Don: "I won't let that happen. You're a Catholic, Ivy, and I won't have my wife selling her body to men."
Ivy: "What's that got to do with it?"
Don: "Haven't you heard of Aids?"
Ivy: "I have. But haven't you heard of condoms?"
Don: "I don't like it."
Ivy: "It's the only way we can manage, Don, until you can get a job."

Everyone was enjoying themselves in riveting conversation. Suddenly the door blew open then slammed shut. Everyone looked round but saw no one. Then the door opened again and in walked Annie Walker. Bet turned and saw her. She went
over.

Bet: "Hello, Mrs Walker. It's so good to see you again."
Annie: "Hello, Bet. Are you still here?"
Bet: "Just like the bricks and mortar."
Annie: "Does Elizabeth still work here?"
Bet: "Oh yes. Her hotpots go down well."
Annie: "You have changed, Bet."
Bet: "Well, the earrings and low-cut tops didn't go with my position really."
Alec: "Bet. What's keeping you?"
Bet: "We have a visitor, Alec."
Alec: "Oh. (puts on a posh voice) "Hello."
Annie: "Aren't you a theatrical agent?"
Alec: "Not exactly, no. I supply acts for clubs."
Annie: "I understand. I know you, don't I?"
Alec: "Alec Gilroy. I used to be Rita Fairclough's agent."
Annie: "I remember. What are you doing here?"
Alec: "I'm the licensee."
Annie: "Really? And you still employ Bet and Elizabeth?"
Alec: "Elizabeth?"
Bet: "Betty."
Alec: "Yes. Well, we keep Betty, Elizabeth on as a favour to my wife."
Annie: "Are you married now?"
Alec: "Yes. Two-and-a-half years."
Annie: "Do I know your wife?
Alec: "As a matter of fact, you do. Bet is my wife."
Annie: "You finally married then, Bet."
Bet: "Yes. We always kept your photograph above the fire."
Annie: "That is nice."
Alec: "Why don't you come through to the back. You and Bet can have a nice cup of tea and a chat."
Annie: "That would be nice."

While everyone was enjoying their drinks, and Annie was going through to the back, the room went silent and everything stopped as a glass of milk stout appeared to float from the bar to Ena Sharples' old table. Annie collapsed in shock. The amazing thing was, no one was there despite the fact the stout was being drunk. The room was ice cold. Shortly after, the glass was placed on the bar, the doors swung open and an icy breeze swept into the pub.

Rita: "Bet?"
Bet: "Yes, Reet?"
Rita: "You know, if I didn't know better, I'd swear that was Ena Sharples."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 2

Deirdre Barlow was just arriving home after her 'council' meeting. She straightened her clothes and hair after her 'meeting' and turned round when she saw an ambulance come down the road and pull up outside the Rovers. She went to investigate.

Deirdre: "Is anything the matter?"
Emily: "It's Mrs Walker."
Deirdre: "Annie Walker?"
Emily: "Yes."
Deirdre: "What's she doing here?"
Emily: "She paid a surprise visit."
Deirdre: "What happened?"
Emily: "Well, that's something of a mystery. She was going through to the back with Bet when the most strangest thing occured."
Deirdre: "Did she have a heart attack, or something?"
Emily: "She probably has now. A glass of milk stout seemed to float across from the bar to the table where Mrs Sharples used to sit."
Deirdre: "Ena Sharples?"
Emily: "Yes."
Deirdre: "But she's dead, isn't she?"
Emily: "Very much so. It would seem it was her ghost."
Deirdre: "Ghost? That is strange."

Over at the Wendy house, things weren't all too rosy for Ken. Wendy hadn't played with him for ages so all he did all day was sit back like a bit of plastic.

Ken: "But you can't mean it, Wendy."
Wendy: "I most certainly do mean it."
Ken: "You're chucking me out so you can shack up with Ted Lucas. I don't believe it."
Wendy: "Well it's true. You're so boring, Ken."
Ken: "BORING?!"
Wendy: "Yes, boring. Before you resigned everything was fine. But now you just sit around cluttering up the place."
Ken: "I'm beginning to get the picture. You only wanted me for my power."
Wendy: "Yes. And now I have your job so get the hell out of my house!"
Ken: "Where will I go?"
Wendy: "That's your problem. Get out!"

The following day was moving day for the Wiltons. Derek had taken the day off and Mavis was fluttering around the place while the removal men carried out their tacky furniture.

Mavis: "Oh, please be careful with that chair."
Man: "I'm doing me best."
Mavis: "Well it's not good enough."
Man: "Would you like to do this, missus?"
Mavis: "No."
Man: "Then kindly shut up so I can get your furniture out."
------------------------
Bet: "So, today's the big day for Mavis then."
Rita: "Yes. And it couldn't have come too soon for my liking."
Bet: "Is it that bad?"
Rita: "Well, let's put it this way. If I hear one more, 'Ooh, Rita. That removal man breathed garlic and pickled onions all over me', I'll throttle him and get the flamin' stuff out myself and over to their new house, carrying it on my back if necessary."
Bet: "You might not get that far."
Rita: "What do you mean, Bet?"
Bet: "Her furniture is so old, it'll probably fall apart as soon as you lift it."
Rita: "You could be right there."
Bet: "Well, I'd better be off. You know what Alec's like."
Rita: "Yes I do. How's Mrs Walker?"
Bet: "In shock."
Rita: "That's only to be expected after what happened last night."
Bet: "True. I was strange though."
Rita: "I always knew you served spirits, Bet, but this is ridiculous."
Bet: (laughs) "I'm going to visit Mrs Walker in hospital this afternoon."
Rita: "Give her my love, won't you."
Bet: "Sure. See ya."
Rita: "Bye."

When Bet had gone, Rita checked to make sure no one else was coming, or wittering Wilton was going to appear to make another complaint. She reached behind the aniseed balls and got down the bottle of vodka she'd carefully hidden. She checked no one was around again, then swigged from the bottle and smiled. When she heard the door slam from upstairs and footsteps, she quickly hid the bottle again and ate a polo.

Rita: "Hello, Mavis. I thought you'd be cracking the whip over those removal man."
Mavis: "Everything's loaded up."
Rita: "So, you'll be off now then."
Mavis: "Yes. Ooh, I am looking forward to this."
Rita: "Where's Derek?"
Mavis: "Putting our suitcases in the car. He should be ready soon."
Rita: "Yes."
Mavis: "Oh, here's the keys."
Rita: "Thanks, Mavis."
Mavis: "You'll be on the move next, won't you?"
Rita: "Yes. Next week. I'll still be working here until the weekend."
Derek: "Hello, Rita. My, what a lovely day this most certainly is."
Rita: "Hello, Derek. I thought it was raining."
Derek: "Erm...yes. But what I meant was, for moving."
Rita: "Right."
Derek: "All set, Mavis?
Mavis: "Almost, Derek. I'll just get my coat."
Derek: "So, you're next then."
Rita: "I'm next."
Mavis: "All ready, Derek."
Rita: "See you, Mavis."
Mavis: "Bye, Rita." (leaves)
Derek: "Bye, Rita." (leaves)
Rita: "I hate you, Derek Wilton! And if Mavis knew what you did..."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 3

The following week it was Rita's turn to move. She'd given the keys of The Kabin to the new owners and was a bit unhappy at leaving the shop behind. No more ghosts or anything strange had happened at the Rovers, much to everyone's relief.

Percy Sugden was just returning from playing Kojak with his lollipop. He bumped into Phyllis Pearce.

Phyllis: "Hello, Percy, love."
Percy: "What do you want?"
Phyllis: "I wondered if you wanted some company."
Percy: "No, I don't. Get out of my way, woman."
Phyllis: "Ooh, I just love it when you order me about."
Percy: "Oh well. I suppose now you're here you'd better come in, if only to get some peace."
--------------------------
Maurice: "Need a hand?"
Rita: "Oh, hello, Mr Jones."
Maurice: "Maurice."
Rita: "Maurice. No thanks. I'm almost done."
Maurice: "I can help you take some stuff over the road if you like, Mrs Fairclough."
Rita: "Rita. And that would be very kind. Thank you."

While Maurice carried a couple of boxes across to her new flat, with his mind on getting into her 58-year-old knickers, Rita dug out another bottle of vodka. By the time Maurice Jones reappeared, the bottle was empty and she was once again downing Polos quicker than the vodka.

Rita: "All done?"
Maurice: "Yes. Any more?"
Rita: "No, that's everything except me and the furniture."
Maurice: "Well, I could always carry you across. Save your little legs."
Rita: "That would be nice."
Maurice: "When would you like me to come back?"
Rita: "In a couple of hours?"
Maurice: "Fine. See you in a couple of hours then."
Rita: "I'll look forward to it."

The McDonalds had just arrived back after a day out. When Liz turned on the light, there was a big shock waiting for them.

Liz: "What the hell's happened here?"
Jim: "Wish I knew, love. It looks like someone's been here."
Liz: "It most certainly does. That's not our furniture."
Jim: "There's a cigarette smouldering too. This is weird."
Liz: "Just like the other night in the Rovers."
Jim: "What the hell's going on?
Liz: "I'm going to look upstairs."
Jim: (looks round) "The wallpaper and carpets have changed too."
Liz: "Jim!"
Jim: "Coming!"
Liz: "Look at this."
Jim: "Who do all these clothes belong to?"
Liz: "Well, they're certainly not mine. Photographs."
Jim: "Photographs?"
Liz: "Look. A boy and a girl."
Jim: (picks them up) "Come on."
Liz: "Where are you going?"
Jim: "To the Rovers. There's bound to be someone who knows who these belong to."

A couple of hours later, Rita's house was empty. She put another empty vodka bottle in the dustbin in the yard when she heard a knock at the door. She stuffed more polos into her mouth, straightened her clothes and hair then went to answer the door, trying her best not to stagger.

Rita: "Maurice."
Maurice: "All set?"
Rita: "For what?"
Maurice: "I'm going to carry you to your new flat, remember?"
Rita: "Oh yes. What with all the moving and everything, I forgot."
Maurice: "It's all right. So, are you ready, madam? Your carriage is waiting."
Rita: "Almost. I just have to get my coat and bag and turn off the lights."
Maurice: "Okay."

Rita got her things while Maurice waited in the hall. When she returned, he picked her up. She looked back into the house, turned off the lights and closed the door.

Rita: "All locked up."
Maurice: "Ready to go now, madam?"
Rita: "Drive on, Jones, and don't spare the horses."
Maurice: "No, madam."

Liz and Jim were drinking in the Rovers, still concerned about their discovery.

Liz: "We should've phoned the police."
Jim: "I want to find out who these belong to. I'm going to ask."
Liz: "Jim? Jim!"
Jim: "Same again please, love."
Liz: "Don't, Jim."
Jim: "I have to know."
Bet: "There you go."
Jim: (pays) Cheers. Oh, I was wondering if you could help us."
Bet: "If I can. What is it?"
Jim: "When we got back to our house, we found everything had changed."
Bet: "Like what?"
Liz: "Furniture, wallpaper, clothes. It seemed as though it weren't our house."
Jim: "And we found these."
Bet: (shocked) "Where did you find these?"
Jim: "Upstairs in our bedroom. Do you know who they belong to?"
Bet: "I'm not sure. Can I have a look at your house?"
Jim: "Sure."
Bet: "You go on. I'll meet you outside in a minute."
Jim: "Okay."
Bet: "Alec, I'm off to the McDonalds."
Alec: "How long will you be? We've got a pub to run."
Bet: "Not long. See yer later (leaves). (to Jim & Liz) It's all right. Let's have a look then."

They walked up the street chatting. When they arrived at number 11, they went in and saw everything back to normal.

Liz: "I don't believe it."
Jim: "Neither do I."
Liz: "Something's going on here, and I don't like it."
Bet: "It is strange. First of all the Rovers last week, now this."
Jim: "Who did this?"
Bet: "I think I know."
Jim: "How?"
Bet: "The photos."
Liz: "We didn't imagine it, you know."
Bet: "I know. Next time it happens, get something like a vase, item of clothing."
Jim: "When I get my hands on them..."
Bet: "You can't do that."
Jim: "Why not? They deserve to be punished."
Bet: "It's impossible. You see, these photos belonged to Elsie Tanner. They are her children."
Liz: "Who's Elsie Tanner?"
Bet: "A previous occupant. She lived here for many years until 1984 when she went to live in Portugal. She died there."
Jim: "Died? Oh, my God. We've got a bloody ghost!"

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 4

Deirdre had not been back from yet another so-called 'meeting' five minutes when there was a knock at the door. She got the shock of her life when she opened it and saw who was outside.

Deirdre: "Oh, my God! Ray!"
Ray: "Hello, Deirdre."
Deirdre: "You'd better come in then."
Ray: "Thanks."

Unknown to both of them, Ken was standing around the corner and saw Ray going into his house.

Deirdre: "Sit down."
Ray: "Thanks."
Deirdre: "Would you like something to drink?"
Ray: "No, thanks. Where's your husband?"
Deirdre: "Husband? Oh, you mean old mother hen. We've split up."
Ray: "I'm sorry to hear that."
Deirdre: "Are you?"
Ray: "Yes. Divorcing?"
Deirdre: "Yes. My SECOND divorce."
Ray: "What happened?"
Deirdre: "Oh, same thing as you. He got himself another slag."
Ray: "I'm so sorry for you."
Deirdre: "Are you? Are you really?"
Ray: "Yes."
Deirdre: "Then why don't I believe you? You weren't sorry when you left me."
Ray: "I know."
Tracy: "Mum, what's all the shouting about? Are you and me dad having another row? Oh, hello."
Ray: "Hello. And who are you?"
Deirdre: "Tracy, love, why don't you go round to Aunty Emily's for a while."
Ray: "Tracy?"
Tracy: "Trying to get rid of me again?"
Deirdre: "No, love. I just need to talk to this man."
Tracy: "All right, I'll go. See yer, mum."
Ray: "Did you say, Tracy?"
Deirdre: "Yes."
Ray: "My little Tracy?"
Deirdre: "MY Tracy. You gave up all rights to her when you agreed for Ken to adopt her."
Ray: "I know. But I didn't want to."
Deirdre: "I know."
Ray: "She has grown up, hasn't she? Last time I saw her she was only a baby."
Deirdre: "What do you want, Ray?"
Ray: "I want you to marry me again."

Rita was busy sorting out her new flat. There was a knock at the door.

Maurice: "Can I come in?"
Rita: "Of course."
Maurice: "Bit of a mess, isn't it?"
Rita: "Yes. I think I've got too much furniture."
Maurice: "You'll find a place for it. Have you eaten yet?"
Rita: (looks at her watch) "Is that the time? No, I haven't."
Maurice: "Why don't you leave this and we go out somewhere."
Rita: "All right."

Ivy Brennan was all tarted up beyone recognition and wandering the streets looking for business. Suddenly, she heard a familiar voice.

Mike: "Are you available?"
Ivy: "Depends on how much you're willing to pay."
Mike: "How about £200 for a couple of hours?
Ivy: "That'll do nicely."
Mike: "What's your name?"
Ivy: "Catherine of Aragon."

Rita and Maurice were in the car driving to his favourite restaurant. They drove past Len's old yard and Rita saw a light was on.

Rita: "Stop!"
Maurice: "What?"
Rita: "Stop the car!"
Maurice: "All right. What's up?"
Rita: "Nothing. I have to go and check on something." (gets out)
Maurice: "Where are you going?"
Rita: "There."
Maurice: "Why there? It's only an old yard."
Rita: "It was my husband's. I won't be long."
Maurice: "Take your time."

Mavis was twittering around while Derek was just twittering.

Mavis: "I see Rita has gone out with Maurice Jones."
Derek: "Good luck to them."
Mavis: "Derek!"
Derek: "Well, she hasn't had much luck with men, has she?"
Mavis: "That's a terrible thing to say. After all she went through with Alan Bradley, she deserves some happiness."
Derek: "If you say so, Mavis. If you say so."

Rita walked cautiously into the yard. She tried the door but it was locked. She didn't understand it. How could the door be locked and the light on inside? She opened her bag and took out a bottle of vodka, swigged then replaced it and took out her keys. She stuffed more polos into her mouth, put the key in the lock and went inside. She nearly had a heart attack when she saw who was in the office.

Rita: "Oh, my god! Len! AAAAAARRRRRRGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

She collapsed with shock. Maurice heard her scream and rushed to find out what was wrong. He saw her lying on the floor, fearing she'd been attacked. He knelt beside her and put her head on his lap, stroking her hair.

Maurice: "Rita? Rita? Oh, God! Rita, please come round. Darling?"
Rita: "What did you call me?"
Maurice: (embarrassed) "Darling."
Rita: "Why did you call me that?"
Maurice: "Isn't it obvious?"
Rita: "No."
Maurice: "Rita, I love you."
Rita: "Do you?"
Maurice: "Yes. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you."
Rita: "You haven't embarrassed me."
Maurice: "Haven't I?"
Rita: "No. I love you too."
Maurice: "Oh, Rita..."

They snogged passionately, then he helped her up.

Rita: "What are you doing here anyway?"
Maurice: "I heard you scream. Are you all right?"
Rita: "Yes, I'm fine. I just got a bit of a shock, that's all."
Maurice: "What was it?"
Rita: "You probably won't believe me."
Maurice: "I'll believe anything you say."
Rita: "No, it's silly."
Maurice: "Go on."
Rita: "All right. This was Len's yard."
Maurice: "Len?"
Rita: "My late husband. He was a builder."
Maurice: "You must have a thing for builders."
Rita: "I probably have. Anyway, he died just over six years ago. When we drove past, I saw the light was on. When I got here, the door was locked. I thought it was very strange, so I opened it and when I looked in, I saw Len standing by the filing cabinet."
Maurice: "That is strange. And I do believe you. What with all the ghosts appearing everywhere, it was bound to happen."
Rita: "Thank you. Why don't we skip dinner and go back to the flat?"

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 5

Next morning there was to be a few surprises in the street. We begin at Deirdre's home.

Deirdre: "I'll have to think about it, Ray."
Ray: "I thought you'd made up your mind last night."
Deirdre: "I have to explain things to Tracy before I can give you your answer."
Ray: "Okay. You have my new address. So, when you've decided, let me know."
Deirdre: (opens door) "I will. Goodbye."
Ray: "See yer."

Ken looked on as Ray and Deirdre snogged in the doorway. Then he watched as Deirdre closed the door, and Ray walked down the street.

Ken: "Ray Langton. I knew I recognised that face. Bastard!"

Over at Emily Bishop's, she got a surprise when she went down for breakfast and saw Percy and Phyllis eating at the table.

Emily: "Mrs Pearce! Mr Sugden, I think you owe me an explanation."
Percy: "We're getting married."
Emily: "Pardon?"
Phyllis: "You can be the first to congratulate us."
Emily: "What happened to change your mind, Mr Sugden?"
Percy: "Well, I realised I cared about her after all."
Phyllis: "After I seduced him."
Emily: "Well, I suppose congratualtions are in order then."
Phyllis: "Thank you, Emily, love. You can be my Matron of Honour, if you like."
Emily: "Thank you very much. Tell me, when will you marry?"
Percy: "In the summer. Like a cup of tea?"

Rita was still fast asleep. The vodka was certainly making her get her beauty sleep. Mind you, the tiredness could've been caused by the late night she had with Maurice Jones. She began to stir.

Maurice: "Good morning."
Rita: "What time is it?"
Maurice: "Just gone eleven. Sleep well?"
Rita: "Wonderfully well. What's that?"
Maurice: "Oh this? I thought you might like breakfast in bed."
Rita: "Thank you. Found your way to the kitchen then."
Maurice: "I built these houses, remember."
Rita: "Of course."
Maurice: "I turned you on, then made you breakfast."
Rita: "I know you turned me on."
Maurice: "I did, didn't I? Where would you like me to put the tray?"
Rita: "Oh, anywhere."
Maurice: "This all right?"
Rita: "Fine. Come here."
Maurice: (sits) "I love you so much, Rita."
Rita: "I love you. I wonder what Mavis would say if she knew."
Maurice: "Don't know. Look, I know you've had a bad time over the past year."
Rita: "Yes, I have. One of the worst years of my life."
Maurice: "I promise I'll never hurt you like that. I'll never lay a finger on you."
Rita: "I know."
Maurice: "Will you marry me, darling?"
Rita: "Yes, Maurice. I'll marry you."
Maurice: "Come here..."

They snogged and he eased her down the bed for the umpteenth time...

Mavis was fretting. Every-so-often she'd twitch her net curtains and looked towards Rita's flat.

Mavis: "His car's still parked outside Rita's flat."
Derek: "So what?"
Mavis: "It's been there since last night. You don't think something's wrong, do you?"
Derek: "No. Mavis, it's obvious to someone who's as naive as you what he's doing there."
Mavis: "I know about that Derek. But still?"
Derek: "What can you expect from someone like her?"
Mavis: "What's that supposed to mean?"
Derek: "She's a whore, Mavis. Nothing but a cheap, common whore."
Mavis: "Derek! That's not a very nice thing to say."
Derek: "Perhaps not. But you've got to face facts, Mavis. She's not as innocent as she claims."
Mavis: "She's never claimed to be anything like that."
Derek: "Yes, I know. Look at Alan Bradley."
Mavis: "What's he got to do with anything?"
Derek: "Living together. It's disgusting. And at her age too. She should be ashamed of herself."
Mavis: "If it makes her happy, she can do what she likes. It has nothing to do with you, Derek."
Derek: "But it has EVERYTHING to do with you. You have to work with her."
Mavis: "I know. She used to live with a man a long time ago, before she met Len. In fact, she was still living with him when she met Len."
Derek: "That proves my point, Mavis. A whore."
Mavis: "If he makes her happy, then I don't mind."
Derek: "Whore."
Mavis: "Oh, Derek!"

Ivy and Don were still rowing about her idea to raise money.

Ivy: "Two hundred pounds, Don. That's a lot for one little-"
Don: "It's unclean money, Ivy."
Ivy: "But last night I raised over five hundred. That should keep us cosy for a while."
Don: "Until the next time."
Ivy: "You don't think I enjoy doing it, do you?"
Don: "Yes, I do."
Ivy: "Well I don't. But it was worth it just to see who my first client was."
Don: "Who?"
Ivy: "You'll never believe it."
Don: "Try me."
Ivy: "Mike Baldwin."
Don: "Baldwin?! I always thought he had everything. Isn't he still living with Alma?"
Ivy: "No. She ran off with her ex-husband."
Don: "I never knew someone could be that desperate."
Ivy: "Well, her husband wasn't any good."
Don: "I was talking about Baldwin!"
Ivy: "Thanks very much, Don. I'll have you know it was him who gave me the two hundred pounds."
Don: "Bastard!"

Rita got dressed then showed Maurice out. Mavis was still twitching her net curtains.

Maurice: "See you tonight?"
Rita: "Naturally."
Maurice: "I love you, Rita. You're my whole life."
Rita: "That's sweet."
Maurice: "What time?"
Rita: "Any time. I'll be here, darling."
Maurice: "Will you tell Mavis?"
Rita: "If you don't mind."
Maurice: "Course not." (kisses her) "See you later."
Rita: (smiles) "Can't wait."

She closed the door and smiled to herself. She was so happy. It suddenly occured to her that she couldn't possibly have loved Alan Bradley otherwise she'd have married him. The thought of him made her feel sick and so she got a bottle of vodka to make her feel better. When she emptied the bottle, she shoved more polos into her mouth, then went to see Mavis.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 6

Deirdre thought it was time to tell Tracy the truth about Ray. She knew it wasn't going to be easy, but had to try anyway, no matter what the consequences were.

Deirdre: "Tracy! Tracy, love!"
Tracy: "Yes?"
Deirdre: " Can you come down here for a minute, love? I have something very important to tell you." (goes into the living room)
Tracy: "Coming. What is it?"
Deirdre: "It's about your dad."
Tracy: "Is he coming home?"
Deirdre: "No, Tracy. It's about your real dad."
Tracy: "Oh." (sits)
Deirdre: "D'you remember when I married Ken, you were called Tracy Langton?"
Tracy: "Just about."
Deirdre: "You wanted to be known as Barlow. You're old enough to know now. I was married before, but separated after you were born. He went to live abroad and fought hard when I asked if he'd consent to Ken adopting you."
Tracy: "I see. But why are you telling me all this now?"
Deirdre: "He's come back and he wants to marry me again."
Tracy: "Are you going to marry him?"
Deirdre: "I don't know. He wasn't very nice to me when we were married. Just like Ken, he had another woman. In fact, several."
Tracy: "Who is my real dad?"
Deirdre: "Ray. The man who was here yesterday."
Tracy: "Oh."
Deirdre: "He wants to see you. Get to know you."
Tracy: "He seemed quite nice."
Deirdre: "Yes. It certainly looks like the years have changed him. Well, Tracy. It's up to you. Do you want to see your real father or not?"

Mavis was delirious after hearing Rita's news. Derek however, wasn't.

Mavis: "Is it really true, Rita?"
Rita: "Yes, it's really true."
Mavis: "You're going to marry Maurice Jones?"
Rita: "Yes, Mavis."
Mavis: "He asked you to marry him?"
Rita: "Well I certainly didn't ask him."
Mavis: "When did he ask you?"
Rita: "This morning."
Mavis: "I'm so happy for you, Rita."
Rita: "Thank you, Mavis. You know, if I hadn't seen what I did last night, none of this would have happened."
Mavis: "Why? What did you see?"
Rita: "Well, it was the strangest thing. You know all these ghosts that keep appearing?"
Mavis: "Yes."
Rita: "Well, I saw Len."
Mavis: "Len?"
Rita: "Well, his ghost anyroad. He was standing in his office."
Mavis: "What did you do?"
Rita: "Screamed and fainted. Maurice was my knight in shining hard hat. He was so worried about me. And one thing led to another so now it's wedding bells."
Mavis: "When, Rita?"
Rita: "I don't know. We haven't discussed it yet. But he'll be visiting tonight so we'll make more arrangements."
Mavis: "Rita Jones. It doesn't quite sound right, does it?"
Rita: "No. But I'll get used to it. I'm looking forward to marrying Maurice."
Mavis: "Do you love him, Rita?"
Rita: "Of course I love him. Why?"
Mavis: "Well, it seems funny that after one night you'll be marrying Maurice Jones."
Rita: "So?"
Mavis: "You were with Alan Bradley longer, but you wouldn't marry him."
Rita: "I see. You're criticising me."
Mavis: "No, Rita, I'm not."
Rita: "I did love Alan Bradley. I really did. Now I know what a lucky escape I had. I love Maurice so much. I've never felt this way about anyone before, not even Len."
Mavis: "Isn't he younger than you?"
Rita: "What's that got to do with it?"
Mavis: "Nothing."
Rita: "I'm not going to stay here to be insulted!"
Mavis: "I'm sorry, Rita. Please don't go."
Rita: "If you're going to insult me-"
Derek: "Let her go, Mavis. She's just proved what I told you."
Mavis: "She's done nothing of the sort."
Rita: "What did he tell you about me?"
Mavis: "Nothing, Rita."
Derek: "I called you a whore, Rita."
Rita: "Whore?! Well, you're nothing but a coward, Derek."
Derek: "I am not!"
Rita: "If Mavis knew what I knew... Can I use your toilet, Mavis?"
Mavis: "Of course. I'll just pop and see Emily. Please be here when I get back, Rita."
Rita: "I'll see." (goes upstairs)
Mavis: "And you, Derek. Be nicer to Rita."
Derek: "I still say she's a whore."

While Mavis went across the raod, Rita was downing another bottle of vodka. She put the empty bottle in her bag, flushed the toilet to make it look like she'd used it, then went back downstairs, firmly gripping the banister to stop herself falling on her face.

Derek: "What did you mean when you said if Mavis knew what you did?"
Rita: "You know."
Derek: "No, I don't."
Rita: "Short memory you've got."
Derek: "Tell me."
Rita: "No. But I might tell Mavis. She'd definitely divorce you."
Derek: "Over what?"
Rita: "A little affair you had in 1954, resulting in the woman becoming pregnant and you abandoning her."
Derek: (sits) "Oh."
Rita: "Is that all you have to say?"
Derek: "What else can I say?"
Rita: "That depends on you."
Derek: "How did you know?"
Rita: "Because it was me."
Derek: "You?"
Rita: "Yes. Me. You were my first lover. You told me you loved me. Well you certainly showed it, didn't you, when you buggered off, leaving me to cope on my own."
Derek: "I panicked."
Rita: "What's new?"
Derek: "Did you have the baby?"
Rita: "What do you care?"
Derek: "I care."
Rita: "I had twins. A boy and a girl."
Derek: "Twins? What happened to them?"
Rita: "I had to give them up for adoption. I haven't seen them since."
Derek: "I had no idea it was you."
Rita: "Well, I knew it was you. I couldn't have any more after that."
Derek: "I'm sorry."
Rita: "So you should be. How do you think Mavis will react when she finds out?"
Derek: "I don't know. She's so unpredictable."
Rita: "So, are you going to tell her, or will I?"

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 7

Lunchtime in the Rovers. Everyone was buzzing with the news of the two forthcoming weddings.

Bet: "So, you finally managed to hook Percy then, Phyllis."
Phyllis: "Yes. After all this time."
Bet: "How did you manage it? I thought he was dead set against you."
Phyllis: "He was. But I seduced him."
Bet: "You seduced him?"
Phyllis: "Yes."
Bet: "How?"
Phyllis: "I used my feminine charms and saggy bits."
Bet: (laughs) "Well done, Phyllis."
---------------------------
Alec: "So, you'll be making Rita an honest woman then, Maurice."
Maurice: "Yes. I couldn't believe it when she agreed to marry me."
Alec: "Where were you thinking of holding the reception?"
Maurice: "We haven't decided. We haven't even got a date fixed for our wedding yet."
Alec: "Well, we do a nice do here."
Maurice: "So I heard."
Alec: "Reasonable prices too."
Maurice: "Yes. Well, I'll talk it over with Rita and let you know."

Suddenly the doors burst open and in rushed Liz McDonald.

Liz: "Bet!"
Bet: "Excuse me, Phyllis. Are you all right, Liz?"
Liz: "It's happened again."
Bet: "Where's Jim?"
Liz: "At home to make sure nothing changes."
Alec: "What's going on here? This is a pub, not a speedway."
Bet: "I'll tell you later. Come on, Liz."
Alec: "Where are you going, Bet?"
Bet: "To the McDonalds again."
Alec: "We've got a pub to run, you know."
Bet: "I do know that, Alec, but this is an emergency." (leaves)
Alec: "Some emergency!"

Jim was waiting patiently for Liz to return. Finally she did.

Jim: "Liz?"
Liz: "Yes. I've brought Bet."
Jim: "Hello, Bet."
Bet: "Liz tells me it's happened again."
Jim: "That's right. We had a lie in this morning, and when we got up, this."
Bet: "Oh my God!"
Liz: "What do you think?"
Bet: "I don't know. This is definitely Elsie's furniture. Can I look upstairs?"
Liz: "Course you can. Come on. I'll show you the way."
Bet: "This is more strange than what happened in the Rovers."
Liz: "Yes. Here we are."
Bet: "Blimey!"
Liz: "And the wardrobe. Well?"
Bet: "They're Elsie's an' all. I remember when she wore them. I have an idea. Why don't you and Jim got out and leave me here?"
Liz: "I don't know. Is it safe?"
Bet: "Wish I knew. I can but try."
Liz: "All right."

Deirdre was getting ready for another 'meeting' when there was a knock at the door. She thought it was Ray, but was surprised when she saw it was Ken on the doorstep.

Deirdre: "Hello, Ken. Come in. Tracy's not here. She's out with her father."
Ken: "I saw he'd come back."
Deirdre: "Won't Wendy be wondering where you are?"
Ken: "We've split up. She only wanted my money. But now I've resigned, she threw me out."
Deirdre: "Oh. So, what do you want, Ken?"
Ken: "I want us to get back together."

Liz and Jim went to the Rovers, leaving Bet in the house all alone. She was scared but daren't admit it. She wondered around the house, worried.

Bet: "Elsie? Elsie? Are you there? Els-"

Suddenly there was a blinding flash. Bet closed her eyes then when she opened them, she saw a very healthy-looking Elsie Tanner sitting at the table with a glass of gin and tonic in one hand and a cigarette in the other.

Elsie: "Hiya, kid. Long time no see."
Bet: (sits in shock) "Elsie."
Elsie: "Who did you think it was? Ena Sharples?"
Bet: "I had a feeling it was you yesterday. I just wanted to be sure."
Elsie: "Have I convinced you?"
Bet: "Yes. How are you, Elsie?"
Elsie: "That's a stupid question. I'm dead!"
Bet: "I know."
Elsie: "Are you cold? I am. It's freezing in here. Don't they have any heating?"
Bet: "They do, but it's spring. Maybe it's coming from the hot sun in Portugal.
Elsie: "Oh, don't talk to me about Portugal."
Bet: "Why? What happened?"
Elsie: "I told you not to talk about Portugal, Bet."
Bet: "Sorry."
Elsie: "So, what's been happening?"
Bet: "Not much. Murders. Weddings. Lunacy."
Elsie: "I see. Don't you think they have tacky furniture?"
Bet: "Who?"
Elsie: "The people who live here."
Bet: "It's not that bad."
Elsie: "Well I think it's awful."
Bet: "Elsie, what's going on?"
Elsie: "I don't know what you mean."
Bet: "I think you do. People coming back from the dead."
Elsie: "Like who?"
Bet: "You for one. Ena Sharples too."
Elsie: "Have you actually seen old Ena?"
Bet: "No."
Elsie: "Then how do you know it was her?"
Bet: "She's the only one who drank milk stout."
Elsie: "Martha Longhurst and Minnie Caldwell did."
Bet: "But not sitting in Ena's chair."
Elsie: "I see."
Bet: "So, what's going on, Elsie?"

Mavis returned from Emily's bursting with the news of Phyllis and Percy's wedding. There was such an atmosphere between Derek and Rita it worried her.

Mavis: "Guess what Emily's just told me."
Derek: "What?"
Mavis: "Mr Sugden and Mrs Pearce are getting married."
Rita: "Is she a whore too, Derek?"
Mavis: "What is going on between you two?"
Derek: "Nothing."
Rita: "He would say that. I'd better be going. I'll see myself out. Don't forget what we discussed, Derek."
Derek: "How can I?"
Rita: "Bye, Mavis." (leaves)
Mavis: "Bye, Rita."
Derek: "Thank God she's gone."
Mavis: "What did you discuss?"
Derek: "It's nothing important, Mavis."
Mavis: "There's obviously something."
Derek: "Mavis, leave it."
Mavis: "I'll ask Rita then."
Derek: "Don't do that, Mavis."
Mavis: "Why not? Derek, why shouldn't I ask Rita?"

Back at the McDonalds, Bet was still in a state of shock. Elsie on the other hand, was calm and collected when she told her the reason for the ghosts.

Elsie: "So you see, Bet, the place was so boring it needed something to liven it up.
Bet: "I wouldn't say it was boring."
Elsie: "Prove it."
Bet: "Rita Fairclough was nearly murdered."
Elsie: "And you call that exciting? Bet, love, you'll have to do better than that."
Bet: "Well, you weren't there. Poor Rita. She was in a terrible state after he got let out."
Elsie: "She'd get in a state over a leaky tap.
Bet: "You're talking about Mavis Wilton, not Rita Fairclough."
Elsie: "Who's Mavis Wilton?"
Bet: "Mavis Riley. She got married."
Elsie: "So?"
Bet: "And so did I."
Elsie: "You finally got tied down then?"
Bet: "Yes."
Elsie: "Well, I admire his guts, whoever he is."
Bet: "Why don't you just go, Elsie?"
Elsie: "Go? When I'm having so much fun? Never. Like it or not, Bet, I'm staying for good."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 8

Deirdre was in shock too after what Ken said. Tracy came back with Ray behind her.

Tracy: "Hiya, mum."
Deirdre: "Hello, love. Have a nice time?"
Tracy: "Yeah. He's wonderful. I really think you should marry him."
Deirdre: "Do you? Hello, Ray."
Ray: "Hello, Deirdre. Ken."
Ken: "You're going to marry him?"
Deirdre: "I haven't decided."
Tracy: "I hope you don't mind him coming back with me. Oh, hello."
Ken: "Hello, Tracy, love. Haven't you got a kiss for your dad?"
Tracy: "You're not me dad."
Ken: "Oh, Tracy."

The next month, there was a new arrival in the street. Hilda Ogden had decided to come back. Mavis noticed this as she was serving behind the counter of Rita's new shop, Balls Galore.

Mavis: "Mrs Ogden! What are you doing here?"
Hilda: "I decided to come back."
Mavis: "I thought you were living in Derbyshire or somewhere."
Hilda: "I was, but Doctor Lowther died. He left me everything, so I thought I'd return to Coronation Street."
Mavis: "Well, it's good to see you, Mrs Ogden. I'll have to be going. I'll see you later."
Hilda: "Yes. Bye, Mavis."

Rita and Maurice were in the flat discussing their wedding the following Saturday.

Maurice: "You will turn up, won't you?"
Rita: "I wouldn't miss it for the world."
Maurice: "Happy?"
Rita: "Very. I'm really looking forward to it."
Maurice: "So am I. People seem to think we're rushing into things."
Rita: "Yes, I know."
Maurice: "Do you?"
Rita: "Well, it is a bit quick, but I don't mind. What about you?"
Maurice: "I agree. But all I know is that, quick or not, I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
Rita: "Oh, darling. I feel exactly the same way. Saturday can't come too soon for me. Oh, I'd better get back downstairs."
Maurice: "Not yet. Mavis can cope. Come here..."

The night before Rita's wedding, the strangest thing happened. Everyone was woken by a wailing coming from outside. There
was no one there, but it sounded like someone was in pain. They also heard the chink of money and everyone realised it was the ghost of Ernie Bishop.

The day of the wedding had finally arrived. Rita had been awake for hours. She'd had her breakfast - 6 bottles of vodka. She stuffed more polos into her mouth when there was a knock at the door. She went to answer it, staggering.

Rita: "Hello, Mavis. Come in."
Mavis: "Thank you, Rita. Well, today's the day."
Rita: "Yes. Today's the day (hic). Oops. Sorry."
Mavis: "Are you all right?"
Rita: "Fine. Just nerves (hic). Can I get you something to drink (hic)?"
Mavis: "Yes, please."
Rita: "Tea (hic)?"
Mavis: "Thank you."
Rita: "Okay."

She went into the kitchen staggering. Mavis noticed this.

Mavis: "Rita, are you sure you're all right?"
Rita: "Fine (hic). Why?"
Mavis: "You're staggering."
Rita: "So I am (hic). My legs are (hic) like jelly. Nerves (hic)."
Mavis: "Oh. Have you had any breakfast?"
Rita: "Oh yes, I've had breakfast (hic). There's nothing to worry about there (hic)."
Mavis: "What did you have?"
Rita: "A liquid breakfast (hic)."
Mavis: "Liquid? That's no good. You should have something solid."
Rita: "I felt (hic) bad enough as it (hic) was, so I didn't want to (hic) give myself indig(hic)estion. Here's your tea (hic)."
Mavis: "Thanks, Rita."

While Mavis was helping the drunken Rita get ready, Derek wasn't sitting around being idle. Oh no. He was borrowing his umpteenth mug of sugar from Hilda Ogden next door.

Derek: "Can I have-"
Hilda: "The usual?"
Derek: "How did you guess?"
Hilda: "You've been after the same thing since I moved here. You'd better come in before anyone sees you."

Back at the flat, Rita was now ready to go. She looked lovely.

Mavis: "Ooh, Rita. You look beautiful."
Rita: You think so?"
Mavis: "Yes. It's no wonder Maurice wants to marry you."
Rita: "Thanks you, Mavis. You look lovely too."
Mavis: "Ooh, thank you, Rita."
Rita: "Is Derek coming?"
Mavis: "I hope so. Shall we go?"
Rita: "Yes. Oh, excuse me."

She went to the bathroom and emptied another bottle of vodka. She straightened her hair and clothes and returned to Mavis.

Rita: "Ready."

They left and headed for the church.

Derek looked at the clock.

Derek: "I have to go. Rita's wedding."
Hilda: "Of course. I understand. Will you be popping round for any more sugar?"
Derek: "You can bet on it. See you, Hilda." (kisses her)
Hilda: "Ta-ra, Derek."

Maurice Jones was anxiously waiting for his bride to be to arrive. He thought she wasn't coming, and was relieved when he saw her staggering down the aisle on Alf's arm.

After the wedding, everyone headed for the reception Alec had persuaded them to have at the Rovers. The newly-weds were inseparable. She couldn't take her eyes off Maurice - well, both Maurices anyway.

Bet: "I never thought you could do it, Reet."
Rita: "Neither did I."
Maurice: "Another drink, darling?"
Rita: "Yes, please, darling."
Maurice: "Back in a minute." (kisses her then leaves)
Bet: "How many have you had?"
Rita: "About six, or seven...or eight."
Bet: "I thought you were supposed to be happy on your wedding day, not drowning your sorrows."
Rita: "I am happy, Bet. I'm just celebrating."
Maurice: "Here you go."
Rita: "Thanks, love." (downs it in one)
Maurice: "I think I'm very lucky."
Bet: "You are. She's a terrific woman."
Rita: "True. And if that Alan Bradley hadn't been such a swine, we'd never have met."
Maurice: "And fallen in love."
Rita: "No."

Was Rita being romantic, or was it the drink making her soppy? They snogged. Bet went over to Phyllis and Percy.

Bet: "You're next then, I suppose."
Phyllis: "Unless someone beats us to it."
Percy: "They make a nice couple, don't they?"
Bet: "They most certainly do, Percy."
Percy: "And he's bound to be better for her than that Alan Bradley."
Bet: "Anyone'd be better than Alan Bradley."
Phyllis: "I can't wait until we're married."
Bet: "Shhh."
Phyllis: "Why?"
Bet: "Don't talk like that in front of Alec."
Phyllis: "Why not?"
Bet: "You know what he's like when there's even a hint of money in a conversation."
Percy: "Well, we won't be having our reception here."
Bet: "You won't?"
Percy: "No. Not that we wouldn't like to you understand, but we'll be having it at Mrs Bishop's."
Bet: "Good on yer, Percy, love. You keep that up, and put my husband's nose well and truly out of joint."
------------------------------------------
Mavis: "Why were you late, Derek?"
Derek: "I couldn't find my tie."
Mavis: "But you were wearing it when I went to Rita's."
Derek: "Yes. But I spilt tea down it so I had to get a clean one."
Mavis: "But you're wearing the same one."
Derek: "Erm...yes. I couldn't find another one, so I cleaned this one."

It was time for the speeches. Maurice's best man was boring everyone asleep. Maurice made a speech next. He had his arm around Rita, who needed to be held up somehow after all the drink she had!

Maurice: "There isn't really much I can say. I'm a very happy man to have this beautiful woman as my wife. Most of you know what happened over the past year, so you'll also know Rita deserves to be happy. And I'm going to do my best to make her happy."
Rita: "Darling."
Maurice: "I love this woman very much, and am even proud she bought one of my buildings. Erm...a toast. To Rita. The most beautiful woman in the world, and my wife."
All: "To Rita."

They were about to cut the cake when the door blew open.

Len: "I have a speech. To Rita Fairclough. MY wife."

Rita collapsed with shock.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 9

Half an hour had passed and everyone was still in shock. Len was busy hovering around Rita, who was out cold on the settee. Maurice was say by - his hoped - wife, stroking her hair. He was furious.

Maurice: "Who the hell are you?"
Len: "I'm her husband."
Maurice: "Her husband's dead."
Len: "What difference does that make?"
Maurice: "Every difference. I don't know who you are, but this isn't very funny."
Len: "Never said it was." (touches Rita)
Maurice: "Get your hands off my wife!"
Len: "MY wife."
Maurice: "Says who?"
Len: "I do."
Maurice: "Well, if you are her husband - which I doubt - you weren't much help when she was attacked."
Len: "Was she attacked?"
Maurice: "Yes."
Len: "I didn't know."
Maurice: "Well considering you're not her husband, it's not surprising."
Len: "I AM her husband!"
Maurice: "Sure you are."
Len: "I'm Len Fairclough. Rita's husband."
Maurice: "Sure."
Rita: "Maurice?"
Maurice: "I'm here, love."
Rita: "What happened?"
Maurice: "You fainted."
Rita: "Did I?"
Maurice: "Are you all right, love?"
Rita: "Yes. I think so anyway. I could've sworn I saw...Len!"
Len: "Hello, Rita."
Maurice: "Len?"
Len: "Now do you believe me?"
Maurice: "Got no choice really, have I?"
Len: "Well leave my wife alone."
Maurice: "All right."
Len: "And stay clear of her."
Maurice: "Whatever you say. Goodbye, MRS FAIRCLOUGH." (leaves)
Rita: "Maurice! What the hell do you think you're doing, Len Fairclough?"
Len: "I've come back. I thought you'd be happy."
Rita: (stands and sways) "Happy?! I hate you! You've ruined my life. Get out of my way!"
Len: "You're not going to him."
Rita: "Yes, I am. Get out of my way, Len!"
Len: "But, Rita-"

She went to push him out the way but her hands went right through him. She thought for a moment she'd missed him but realised the drink had worn off.

Rita: "So, you ARE dead."
Len: "Yes."
Rita: "I wasn't imagining it."
Len: "No. Rita-"
Rita: "Sod off, Len! You're nothing to do with my life any more." (leaves)

Maurice was sobbing his broken heart out. Rita searched frantically for him then found him on her doorstep.

Rita: "Maurice. Maurice, love."
Maurice: "What do you want?"
Rita: "To talk to you." (sits)
Maurice: "You'd better get back, MRS FAIRCOUGH. Your HUSBAND will be waiting."
Rita: "I'm with my husband. Len IS dead, honestly. My hands went right through him. I'm YOUR wife, Maurice, not his."
Maurice: "Are you?"
Rita: "We got married, so I should be. Come on. Let's go back in."

The following week while the newly-weds were jetting back from their secret honeymoon destination, Mavis was getting very suspicious of Derek. She noticed how, despite the fact there was plenty of sugar in the cupboard, he still kept popping next door to borrow some and sometimes even stayed as long as 15 minutes. She went to investigate and was shocked when she
saw them at it in Stan's old chair. She was so upset. She went home and rang Victor Pendlebury. As far as she was concerned, if Derek could be unfaithful, so could she. After all, he did accuse her of having an affair with Victor, when all he was doing was rubbing her foot.

Meanwhile, Emily Bishop became something of a dark horse. Whenever Percy was out with Phyllis, she would get visits from Mark Casey. Prim and proper Emily Bishop having an affair? Unthinkable! But true.

Back at Hilda's and Derek was in full flow.

Hilda: "Oh, Derek."
Derek: "Oh, Hilda."

Suddenly they heard a loud snore.

Hilda: "What was that?"
Derek: "I don't know. Oh, Hilda."
Stan: "Gerroff, our Hilda! You're squashing me sausage!"

Both of them screamed and quickly got off, undies round their ankles and watched in horror as Stan Ogden materialised.

Stan: "Look at me sausage. It's all bent."

They both collapsed in shock.

Back in the vestry - sorry, Emily's house, she was just seeing Mark out.

Mark: "Okay, Emily."
Emily: "You know I wouldn't be getting rid of you so quickly if Mr Sugden wasn't due back."
Mark: "I know. See you tomorrow then?"
Emily: "Yes."

Rita and Maurice arrived back. While they were unpacking, among other things, a couple of strangers arrived at the Rovers.

Bet: "What can I get you?"
Peter: "Nothing thanks. We were wondering if you could help us."
Bet: "I'll try."
Maggie: "Does a Rita Littlewood live round here?"
Bet: "Rita Littlewood, did you say?"
Peter: "That's right."
Bet: "Yes, she does. She's on her honeymoon."
Maggie: "Honeymoon?"
Bet: "She got married again last week."
Maggie: "Again?"
Bet: "She was married before but her husband died."
Peter: "Where does she live?"
Bet: "The flat above the newsagents over the road."
Peter: "We'll go now then."
Bet: "She might not be back yet."
Peter: "We can wait if she's not there."

Rita and Maurice had finished their unpacking and were just about to jump on the bed so they could test the strength of the springs when there was a knock at the door. Rita got up, took a bottle of vodka from behind a plant, swigged then replaced it. She straightened her hair then answered the door.

Rita: "Oh, hello."
Peter: "Are you Rita Littlewood?"
Rita: "Rita Jones. Before that I was Rita Fairclough. Littlewood was my maiden name and my stage name when I was in the business."
Maggie: "Business?"
Rita: "Cabaret. I retired after my husband died. Is that what you're here about?"
Peter: "Not exactly. We understand you're our mother."

Meanwhile over at number 1, Deirdre had come to a decision.

Deirdre: "I'm sorry, Ray."
Ray: "I thought you would marry me."
Deirdre: "So did I. It wasn't an easy decision to make you know."
Ray: "Can I still see Tracy?"
Deirdre: "You are her father."
Ray: "Does that mean yes?"
Deirdre: "Yes."
Ray: "Thanks, Deirdre."

Back at Rita's, old boozer was coming to terms with the shock. She'd sent Maurice out while she talked with Peter and Maggie.

Rita: "This is such a shock."
Peter: "For you too(?)"
Rita: "I thought I'd never see either of you again."
Peter: "Wishful thinking?"
Rita: "No. I didn't want to give you both up."
Peter: "Sure(!)"
Maggie: "Stop it, Pete. Why did you?"
Rita: "I had to choose between keeping you and struggling on my own or give you up."
Maggie: "On your own? Surely our father would've supported you."
Rita: "You don't know him. He left me when I told him I was pregnant."
Maggie: "Swine. Did you have any more after us?"
Rita: "No. I couldn't you see. I would've loved a family of my own."
Maggie: "Our mum didn't tell us we were adopted until she died just before Christmas."
Rita: "I see."
Peter: "So we thought we'd find the bitch who gave us up."
Maggie: "Stop it!"
Rita: "You sound just like your father. God, how I hate him!"
Maggie: "No matter what my brother says, I like you."
Rita: "Thank you."
Maggie: "Do you know where he is?"
Rita: "Unfortunately."
Maggie: "Like that is it?"
Rita: "Yes. Why do you want to know?"
Maggie: "We'd like to meet him."
Rita: "You silly little fool."
Maggie: "What?"
Rita: "I'm sorry. I'm letting my opinion of him get in the way. I'll talk to him."
Maggie: "Will you?"
Rita: "Yes. Come back in a day or so."
Maggie: (stands) "Right. Come on, Pete. See yer then."
Rita: "Bye."

They left. Rita reached for another vodka bottle and drank while she thought of a way to break the news to Derek.

Maurice waited downstairs until they'd gone. He was puzzled. He went upstairs to his little wifey, who had by now finished another bottle, and was crunching on a mouthful of polos.

Maurice: "I see they've gone then."
Rita: "Yes, they've gone. But they'll be back."
Maurice: "Are you all right, Rita, Love?"
Rita: "Fine, under the circumstances. Why?"
Maurice: "You're shaking."
Rita: "I've had a bit of a shock, that's all. I'll be all right, love."
Maurice: "It wasn't anything to do with Len Fairclough, was it?"
Rita: "No. I'm all right, love, honest."
Maurice: "Nice people they seemed to be."
Rita: "Yes. Well, Maggie is anyroad, but Peter was very hostile towards me, which I suppose is only to be expected."
Maurice: "Why?"
Rita: "I'm their mother."

Deirdre had just let Ken in. They sat in silence.

Ken: "So, how are you keeping, then?"
Deirdre: "Fine."
Ken: "And Ray?"
Deirdre: "Fine too. He's so proud of Tracy."
Ken: "I bet he is."
Deirdre: "They get on very well."
Ken: "She'll be pleased then when you marry him."
Deirdre: "I won't be marrying Ray Langton."
Ken: "You won't?"
Deirdre: "That's what I said."
Ken: "Why not?"
Deirdre: "I don't know why not. Tracy'll still see him though."
Ken: "I see."
Deirdre: "What do you see?"
Ken: "I practically brought that girl up as my own daughter. And now he'll be seeing her and turn her against me."
Deirdre: "I know you did. But what makes you think he'll turn her against you?"
Ken: "Because he's already started. It hurt, Deirdre, when she said I wasn't her father."
Deirdre: "I know it hurt, Ken. I saw your face. But Ray'll be around for a long time. She has a right to know her real father."
Ken: "I suppose you're right. I'd better be going then."
Deirdre: "Ken?"
Ken: "Yes?"
Deirdre: "About what you said."
Ken: "Us getting back together?"
Deirdre: "Yes. Did you mean it?"
Ken: "Yes."
Deirdre: "All right. I'll give it a go."
Ken: "That's great!"
Deirdre: "But no more women."
Ken: "Agreed."

Rita went to Mavis and Derek's, ready to break the news. She'd had enough courage to float an army of Titanics! She knocked. Derek answered.

Rita: "Hello, Derek. Mavis in?"
Derek: "No, she's not."
Rita: "Good, because it's you I wanted to see."
Derek: "You mean, you wanted to see me?"
Rita: "Yes."
Derek: "What can we possibly have to talk about?"
Rita: "I think you already know the answer to that."
Derek: "Oh."
Rita: "Oh."
Derek: "You'd better come in then."
Rita: "Thanks, Derek."
Derek: "Not at all. Make yourself at home."
Rita: "Oh, I will, Derek. Believe me, I will."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 10

At number 11, the MacDonalds had moved out until they'd got rid of their ghost problem. Meanwhile, Elsie Tanner had made herself well and truly at home. Well, it did used to be hers, didn't it? All the ghosts had arrived for a meeting to
discuss Rita's insanity problem - she was far too sane for their liking.

Elsie: "So, what are we going to do about her?"
Len: "I could have another go if you like."
Elsie: "No, I wouldn't like. You've already cocked it up, Len."
Len: "At least I tried."
Elsie: "I know you did, love. She's on the edge already, what with the amount she's putting away. What we need now is someone to give her the push she needs. Any suggestions? No? What about you, Alan? You haven't said much, and you did
used to shack up with her, then try to murder her."
Alan: "I've always wanted to get revenge on her after the way she behaved. I'll do it. If Len doesn't mind."
Len: "Why should I mind?"
Alan: "You were married to that bitch."
Len: "I know I was. But I had another woman too you know, just like you."
Alan: "Yes."
Len: "What I want to know is, why did you steal my name?"
Alan: "Borrowed."
Len: "All right then, borrowed my name."
Alan: "To get money."
Elsie: "That's enough. Back to the matter in question - operation loony."
Alan: "Good name, considering it's her."
Elsie: "Yeah, well?"
Alan: "What?"
Elsie: "What's your idea?"
Alan: "Well, I have a feeling she'll definitely flip when she claps eyes on me."
Elsie: "I hope so, otherwise the mission has failed completely. No more attempts after this, because she'll never crack, unfortunately."

Back at Mavis and Derek's, the atmosphere was still very icy.

Derek: "They want to meet me?"
Rita: "For some stupid reason, yes. I don't know why though. I did my best to put them off."
Derek: "You would. You've never forgiven me, have you?"
Rita: "No. Do you blame me after the way you buggered off like that?"
Derek: "I suppose not. I'll be glad to meet my children."
Rita: "What about Mavis?"
Derek: "What about her?"
Rita: "She's your wife, remember?"
Derek: "I know, I know."
Rita: "She has a right to know, Derek."
Derek: "I don't see why."
Rita: "No, you wouldn't. She's going to get very suspicious when she sees you with them."
Derek: "I hadn't thought of that."
Rita: "So it's agreed then. We'll tell her."
Derek: "You tell her."
Rita: "We do this together, or I'll tell the kids you don't want to know them, just like all those years ago."
Derek: "All right. Together."
Mavis: "Derek, I'm home."
Rita: "Brace yourself."
Derek: "Hello, Mavis."
Mavis: "The queues were terrible in that supermarket. I... Oh, hello, Rita."
Rita: "Mavis."
Mavis: "Did you want to see me?"
Rita: "Actually I came to talk something over with Derek."
Mavis: "Oh. Well, I won't disturb you any more. I'll put the shopping away."
Derek: "Mavis."
Mavis: "Yes, Derek?"
Derek: "I... We..."
Rita: "Go on, Derek."
Derek: "It's difficult, Rita."
Rita: "Nothing's changed, has it? Mavis, we've both got something to tell you which you probably won't like much."
Mavis: "What is it? Has it got something to do with the way you've behaved towards each other?"
Derek: "Yes."
Rita: "And with good reason."
Derek: "Don't start that again."
Rita: "Mavis, I think you'd better sit down."
Mavis: "Why?"
Derek: "Because what we have to say will come as a bit of a shock."
Rita: "That's an understatement."
Derek: "All right, a big shock."
Rita: "One hell of a shock is more accurate, Derek."
Derek: "Yes."
Mavis: "Is it serious?"
Rita: "Very."
Mavis: "I think I know what it is."
Derek: "You can't."
Rita: "What do you think, Mavis?"
Mavis: "You're going to live together."
Rita: "Nice try, but wrong. It's more serious than that, and I hope I'll not be doing all the talking, Derek."
Derek: "Course not, Rita."
Mavis: "What is it then?"
Rita: "Derek."
Derek: "A long time ago-"
Rita: "1954."
Derek: "Yes. Well, I met this woman-"
Rita: "Beautiful, innocent young thing."
Derek: "Very beautiful."
Rita: "Derek..."
Derek: "Yes. Well, erm...we had this sort of affair you see."
Mavis: "Is that all? Derek, I don't mind."
Derek: "You don't?"
Mavis: "No. It was in your past."
Derek: "There you are Rita. Nothing to worry about."
Rita: "She hasn't heard the rest."
Mavis: "There's more?"
Rita: "There most certainly is."
Mavis: "Oh."
Rita: "Well, Derek?"
Derek: "Oh. Well, erm...anyway, erm..."
Rita: "Come on, Derek."
Derek: "I thought you were going to tell her too."
Rita: "My turn will come."
Derek: "Oh. Well, erm...she got pregnant."
Mavis (shocked) "Pregnant?!"
Derek: "Yes."
Mavis: "You got her pregnant?"
Rita: "He did. Bastard."
Derek: "Now, now, Rita."
Mavis: "So, what happened?"
Rita: "He left her."
Mavis: "Left her?"
Derek: "Erm...yes. I was frightened, Mavis. The prospect of becoming a father was a shock."
Rita: "He even said he loved her. And, worst of all, said nothing would ever separate them."
Derek: "But I did. I meant every word, Rita."
Rita: "You've had 35 years to prove otherwise, Derek!"
Mavis: "What then?"
Rita: "She faced life alone. She had twins, a boy and a girl, but had to give them up for adoption because she couldn't cope on her own."
Mavis: "Why are you telling me this now?"
Rita: "Because they turned up. They met their mother and now they want to meet their father."
Mavis: "And he told you this?"
Derek: "Not exactly."
Mavis: "What do you mean, not exactly? You told her, but you wouldn't even tell your own wife."
Derek: "I didn't tell her. She told me."
Mavis: "How did she know then?"
Derek: "Ask her."
Rita: Thanks a lot, Derek."
Derek: "You wanted her to know."
Rita: "You're a bastard!"
Mavis: "How did you know, Rita?"
Rita: "You won't like it."
Mavis: "I don't care. Tell me."
Rita: "I'm the woman."
Mavis: "The one he had the... Oh."
Rita: "I'm sorry you had to find out like this."
Mavis: "I bet you are(!)"
Rita: "If they hadn't turned up after all these years, you never would have known."
Mavis: "No. You'd have kept lying to me. That's why you've always been against Derek and me. You were jealous."
Rita: "Jealous?!"
Mavis: "Yes, jealous."
Rita: "Don't be ridiculous."
Mavis: "And as for you, Derek Wilton. Now I know why you've done nothing but insult her, even when she had that problem with Alan Bradley."
Derek: "I didn't know it was her."
Mavis: "Tell that to my solicitor."
Derek: "Solicitor? You aren't serious."
Mavis: "I most certainly am."
Rita: "But it's true, Mavis."
Mavis: "What is? The fact you and he have children?"
Rita: "Yes, but he really didn't know it was me until that row we had last month, remember? When he called me a whore."
Mavis: "He was right then, wasn't he?"
Rita: "My God! How the worm turns."
Mavis: "What's that supposed to mean?"
Rita: "You know exactly what it means. You said I was jealous."
Mavis: "And you are."
Rita: "If I was, do you think I'd have let you marry Derek in the first place?"
Mavis: "Well..."
Rita: "I could've told you the truth then about what happened, but I didn't. I kept me mouth shut."
Mavis: "You were thinking more about Alan Bradley."
Rita: "And how many people blurt out the truth when they're upset?"
Mavis: "Oh."
Rita: "Oh. I WANTED you to marry him, Mavis, despite the fact I hate his guts. And who do you think got you two back together when Derek found Victor rubbing your foot?"
Derek: "I decided to forgive her by myself."
Rita: "You're a liar, Derek, and you know it! You may be Mavis's hero, but you're totally transparent. You know damn well I talked to you after I'd been to see her."
Derek: "No, you didn't."
Rita: "Oh yes, I did. Why don't you admit it, Derek? Make everyone happy."
Mavis: "Is this true, Derek?"
Derek: "I... Yes it is."
Rita: "So you see, Mavis, I'm not jealous."
Mavis: "I see. I'm sorry, Rita."
Rita: "That's all right. Your reaction was only what I expected. I'd have acted the same way."
Derek: "What are you going to do? Divorce me?"
Mavis: "No, Derek. I understand everything now. I forgive both of you."
Rita: "Thank you, Mavis. I'd better got and get tea. My husband is waiting."
Mavis: "Bye, Rita. Oh, Derek. I don't mind. You see your children."

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 11

Over to Alf's Roberts' mini-market now. He was about to shut up shop when there was a knock at the door.

Audrey: "Leave it, Alfie. Let's go home."
Alf: "It might be a customer."
Audrey: "You and your money. Tell them to go away."
Alf: "Don't be silly, Audrey."
Audrey: "Silly, am I? I know you, Alf Roberts. You open that door and you'll never close it for anything."
Alf: "Just this one, and I promise we'll go home after."
Audrey: "I'll keep you to that."
Alf: (opens door) We're closed, you know. Oh my God!"
Audrey: "Alfie?"
Alf: "Renee!"
Audrey: "Renee?"
Renee: "Why did you leave me there, Alf? Why?"

Alf had another heart attack when he saw his dead wife standing in the doorway, covered in blood. Audrey nearly had one too. He was rushed to hospital, where he remained unconscious.

Maurice and Rita had just eaten. They heard the ambulance and went to see what had happened. When Rita opened the door, she nearly had a heart attack when she saw who was standing the other side.

Rita: "Oh my God! Alan!"
Maurice: "Alan?"
Alan: "Hello, you bitch!"
Maurice: "What do you want, Bradley?"
Alan: "Stay out of this, you bastard."
Maurice: "Bastard? What did I ever do to you?"
Alan: "Refused to keep me employed, that's what you've done."
Rita: "What do you want, Alan?"
Alan: To get revenge for the way you treated me. Come here." (tries to grab her)
Maurice: (pulls her back) "Leave my wife alone!"
Alan: "Wife? You married him when you wouldn't marry me?"
Rita: "I don't have to answer to you."
Alan: "Oh yes, you do! I should've murdered you and hid the body like everyone accused me of doing."
Rita: "What would that have solved?"
Alan: "My problem."
Rita: "What problem?"
Alan: "You! You made my life hell, and that's what I'm going to do to you."

He grabbed Rita by her collar and started to drag her out. Maurice tried to help her but Alan pushed him and he hit the door, knocking himself unconscious. Rita screamed as Alan dragged her downstairs by her hair. She was helpless.

Rita: "What are you going to do to me?"
Alan: "Stick you in front of an oncoming tram. See how you like it."
Rita: "No! Noooooooooo!"
Alan: (hits her) "Shut up, bitch!"
Rita: "What about Maurice?"
Alan: "He'll live. What a surprise he'll get when he suddenly finds himself a widower. He'll probably grieve over his loss."
Rita: "He loves me. Of course he'll grieve."
Alan: "If it was me, I'd celebrate."
Rita: "Let me go! I want to be with my husband."
Alan: "Why? And don't tell me it's because you love him. That would be too much."
Rita: "I do love him."
Alan: "You loved me too once. Or were you pretending because you were desperate?"
Rita: "I've never been desperate in my life! I did love you but I had a lucky escape when I found out what you really are!"
Alan: "You, bitch!"

He opened the door and threw her onto the road.

Alan: "You not only ruined my life, but you also tried to turn my daughter against me."
Rita: "I only told her the truth. She knew what you were like, but like a fool, she backed you up."
Alan: "Don't call my daughter a fool, you bitch!" (kicks her)
Rita: "Leave me alone, Alan. Please, leave me alone."
Alan: "Begging now, are you? Well, I won't have it." (kicks her again)
Rita: "What are you going to do? Alan! Alan!"
Alan: "I'm going to finish the job I started. Shame there's no MFI cushions around but my hands will do just as well."
Rita: "You're insane!"
Alan: "I must be to have ever got involved with you! Let me see. A squeeze. Gently at first, then very slowly grip tighter, and tighter and TIGHTER until my hands overlap!"
Rita: "Alan, No! No! NOOOOOOOOOOO!"

He knelt down and put his hands around her throat. Her screams could be heard all over Weatherfield until they gradually became a quiet, desperate squeak. Dadadadadadadaaaaaaa - her knight in shining hard hat came to her rescue, seeing as everyone else just stood around in a circle watching.

Maurice: "Get off her, Bradley!"
Alan: "Sod off!"

He tried to pull him off Rita but fell through him and landed with a thud on his wife. He quickly got off. Just at that moment, Jenny and her friend Felicity walked round the corner. They spotted the circle and went over.

Jenny: "I wonder what's going on."
Felicity: "Me too."

They pushed through the crowd and saw Alan strangling Rita.

Kevin: "Jenny!"
Sally: "Hello, Jenny."
Jenny: "What's going on?"
Sally: "It's Mrs Fairclough - sorry, Jones."

Jenny looked and was shocked.

Jenny: "Dad!"
Alan: "Hello, Jen."
Jenny: "What are you doing?"
Alan: "Nothing, love."
Jenny: "Rita?"
Rita: (squeak) "Jenny, help me!"
Alan: "Shut up, bitch!"
Jenny: "So, she was right about you after all."
Alan: "She tried to turn you against me."
Jenny: "I'm, sorry, Rita. I should've believed you."
Rita: (squeak) "I forgive you."
Alan: "I told you to shut up!" (grips tighter)
Jenny: "I've had enough of this."

She barged past and went into number 7. She picked up the photo of Alan and went back.

Alan: "What's that?"
Jenny: "Your photo. I don't want anything to do with you."
Alan: "You're my daughter."
Jenny: "More's the pity. And to think, I actually grieved for you."

She threw the photo at Alan. It shattered. Alan released his hands and Maurice pulled Rita away.

Alan: "You shouldn't have done that, Jen."
Jenny: "I'm glad I did. I should've done it a long time ago."

Everyone watched as Alan disappeared. His mission had failed, so had operation loony. Maurice comforted Rita, who was shaking, mostly because she badly needed a drink.

Jenny: "I'm sorry, Rita,"
Rita: "That's all right. Thanks for saving me again."
Jenny: "It's okay."

So, everything was over. Rita stayed the same and lived in clover with Maurice, as well as her vodka. Mavis accepted Derek's children and everything went back to abnormal.


The End

Patsy