Memories From The Past

[RitaLittlewood]

This was originally written in July 2002:

Part 1

Summer 2002 in Weatherfield, and it was a rare day when it was sunny and warm, without a drop of rain in sight. It was lunchtime, and in The Kabin, Rita Sullivan was having a hard time getting rid of her irritating assistant, Norris Cole.

Rita: "Norris, will you just go and get yer dinner, before I end up throttling you with yer pen!"
Norris: "I don't want to leave you alone, Rita. Not with that maniac on the loose."
Rita: "What maniac? Oh, no. I do hope you're not going on about Richard Hillman again."
Norris: "He did kidnap and threaten me, Rita."
Rita: "So you keep saying."
Norris: "And all because you decided not to give him your money, for which he blames me."
Rita: "So?"
Norris: "So? You still don't believe he threatened me in this very shop, do you, Rita?"
Rita: "I would if you could prove it."
Norris: "I'd prove it if you had CCTV. I never understood why, even after all the break-ins you've had, you still haven't got it installed."
Rita: "Those things cost money, you know."
Norris: "Well, it's not as if you're on the verge of bankruptcy."
Rita: "Watch it, Norris."
Norris: "Richard threatening me would be all on tape, Rita. He's far too clever for his own good. One of these days, he's going to drop himself in it."
Rita: "I know what I'd like to drop you in."
Norris: "There's no need to be like that, Rita. No need at all."
Rita: "There's every need. You're worse than Mavis and her twittering. If you don't stop that wagging tongue of yours, Norris, I'll end up lacquering it. Now go for your dinner, before I do something you'll regret."
Norris: "But, Rita-"
Rita: "But, Rita nothing. Out!"

She pushed a protesting Norris out the door and onto the road, unaware someone was watching from a car parked by her old house.

Rita: "And I don't want you coming back until a full hour is up. Do you understand?"
Norris: "Rita-"
Rita: "Let's see... It's 12.37 now, so I don't want to see your gormless face until your little watch hand reaches 1.37, okay?"
Norris: "It's not safe, Rita! You need me around to protect you from Richard."
Rita: "Protect me?! You're as much use as a fire in a freezer. Now, get going."
Norris: "All right, Rita. As long as you know it's under protest."
Rita: "You'll be protesting under the next car that comes along, if you don't get out of my sight this minute."

Norris was about to speak, but a glare from Rita made him change his mind, so he headed for the Rovers, totally desponent. Rita looked up, sighed heavily, shook her head, and went back into the shop. Meanwhile, the person watching got out of the car and headed towards the shop.

Over in the Rovers, it was so packed for a change you could hardly get through the door. Norris managed to squeeze his way through the thirsty masses and reach the bar.

Fred: "Hallo, Norris. What can I get you?"
Norris: "Just an orange juice, please, Fred."
Fred: "Are you all right, Norris? I say, are you all right?"
Norris: "Not really. Rita's just manhandled me out of the shop."
Fred: "Eee, I wish she'd manhandle me. I say, manhandle me."
Norris: "It was very undignified of her."
Fred: "Always full of surprises, our Rita. Did you say summat to upset her?"
Norris: "I only offered to protect her."
Fred: "And she reacted like that?"
Norris: "Yes."
Fred: "Maybe I should give it a go. Er... What do you think her reaction would be if I offered a taste of me sausage?"
Norris: "Pardon?"
Fred: "Finest pork sausage in the whole of Lancashire. They sell very well in the shop."
Norris: "Oh. I couldn't say."
Fred: "Well, I'm sure she wouldn't say no to a nice bit of sausage and the finest rump. I'll pop over when I have a minute."
Norris: "I hope she's in a better mood then."
Fred: "I don't! I'll get your drink."
Norris: "Thank you."

Back in The Kabin, Rita was out the back making a cup of tea when she heard the door open.

Rita: "I'll be with you in a minute."

She got rid of the teabag in the bin, stirred the drink and went to see to the customer.

Rita: "Sorry about that. I was just..."

She dropped her mug in shock as she felt her stomach lurch, and her heart beat so fast she thought it would explode.

Rita: "Oh, my God! Alan! But, you're dead!"
Dave: "I'm sorry? I'm not Alan. My name's Dave Grant. Are you okay?"
Rita: "Dave Grant, did you say?"
Dave: "That's right."
Rita: "Not Alan Bradley?"
Dave: "Who? Oh, hang on. That name rings a bell, but I can't place it."
Rita: "It's not important. I'm sorry, Mr Grant. It was just the shock seeing you standing there."
Dave: "So I noticed. Maybe I should be the one to apologise for looking like this... What did you say his name was again?"
Rita: "Alan Bradley."
Dave: "Aye, him."
Rita: "Well, you can't help it."
Dave: "No, I suppose I can't. Er... You seem to have made a bit of a mess there, Mrs...?"
Rita: "Sullivan. Rita Sullivan."
Dave: "I'm very pleased to meet you, Mrs Sullivan."
Rita: "And you, Mr Grant. Despite you nearly giving me a heart attack."
Dave: "Oh, I'd hate to do that. Here, let me help you clean that up."
Rita: "There's no need."
Dave: "Please."
Rita: "Well, if you're sure."
Dave: "Quite sure."
Rita: (smiles) "Right. I'll just get the mop."

She went out the back again, got the mop and leaned against the wall, hand to her chest, willing her palpitations to stop.


To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 2

Back at the Rovers, Norris stayed at the bar constantly checking his watch and the door, in case Richard came in.

Karen: "What are you doing, Norris? Seeing if you can tell the time?"
Norris: "Oh, very droll, Karen. If you must know-"
Karen: "Must I?"
Norris: "You brought it up. I'm due back at The Kabin shortly, and I don't want to be late."
Karen: "Sitting in here boozing isn't going to do much for your timekeeping."
Norris: "I'm sure you know far more about that than I do. Excuse me." (leaves)
Karen: "Oooh. Who rattled his cage?"
Fred: "It were Rita apparently. Manhandled him out of the shop, he says."
Karen: "What's he so miserable about then? Biggest thrill he's ever likely to get, even if it were by that old bag."
Fred: "Now, see here, Karen. I'll not have Rita talked about like that in here."
Karen: "Oh, come off it, Fred. Just look at all the warpaint she covers the cracks with. I'm surprised she can even see through all that mascara."
Fred: "Did you come in here for a drink, or to be insulting about friends of mine?"
Karen: "A drink. But since you say she's a friend of yours, isn't it time you told her the panda look's out this year?"
Fred: "Tell you what, Karen. Why don't you tell her?"
Karen: "Me? Not likely."
Fred: "Why not, if you think she should know?"
Karen: "Because she's no friend of mine, is she?"
Fred: "With friends like you, who needs enemies?" (leaves)
Karen: "Huh! Did you hear that, Steve?"
Fred: "You did ask for it."
Karen: "Who's side are you on?"
Steve: "My own."
Karen: "You're useless, you. You never back me up."
Steve: "I will when you stop being so gobby about everyone and everything. Now shut up and get that down you, before I pour it over your head. And stop sulking"
Karen: "I never sulk!"
Steve: "Not much, you don't."

Back at The Kabin and everything was cleaned up and put away.

Rita: "You're a dab hand with a mop and bucket."
Dave: "I should be. I used to be caretaker of a primary school."
Rita: "I think I can imagine most of the messes you had to clean up."
Dave: "And your imagination would be spot on."
Rita: "Round here, were it?"
Dave: "No. Blackburn."
Rita: "Ah. Is that where you're from? Sorry. I'm prying."
Dave: "Not at all. No. I moved there because the job was available. I'm originally from Manchester."
Rita: "I see. Well, I won't be nosy anymore."
Dave: "I don't mind."
Rita: "So, what can I do for you?"
Dave: "Sorry?"
Rita: "You came into the shop for something."
Dave: "Oh, yes. I'd forgotten. I'm just about to move into a flat in Rosamund Street, and was coming to arrange newspaper deliveries."
Rita: "I see. Yes, we can do that for you. No problem. Any idea when from?"
Dave: "Not yet, but soon I hope. I'm in a tatty little B&B at the moment."
Rita: "Well, you just let me know when you're all moved in."
Dave: "I will."
Rita: "Good. Oh."
Dave: "What?"
Rita: "I've just thought. I'm afraid there are a few other people around here who'll react to you the way I did."
Dave: "This... What was his name again?"
Rita: "Alan Bradley."
Dave: "This Alan Bradley was not very popular around here then?"
Rita: "He used to be, until... Well, let's just say, he was at one time, but not by the end."
Dave: "I see. I'll just have to get used to it then."
Rita: "Yes. I'm very sorry about that."
Dave: "Don't be. It can't be helped."
Rita: "I'm so glad you see it like that."
Dave: "Not got a lot of choice really, if I'm going to be living here."
Rita: "No."
Dave: "I'll be off then. Nice meeting you, Rita."
Rita: "And you, Dave."
Dave: "See you when I get those keys."
Rita: "I look forward to it."
Dave: "Bye then."
Rita: "Take care. And thanks for your help."
Dave: "Don't mention it."

She watched him leave and as soon as the door closed, could feel her legs beginning to buckle under her and the room began to sway. She felt totally sick after being reminded of the worst 18 months of her life. Before she collapsed in a heap on the floor, Norris came in. He rushed straight to her when he saw the state she was in.

Norris: "Rita! Are you all right? You've gone very pale."
Rita: "Not really, Norris. I've just had the shock of my life. Get me a chair, would you?"
Norris: "Certainly. Here."
Rita: "Thanks."
Norris: "Is it anything to do with Richard?"
Rita: "Don't start that again. I haven't the energy."
Norris: "What happened then? You were fine when I went out."
Rita: "When I kicked you out, you mean."
Norris: "Yes."
Rita: "I thought something from my past had come back to haunt me, that's all."
Norris: "I don't understand."
Rita: "Never mind. Let's just say, it wasn't. Still gave me a nasty shock all the same. What time is it?"
Norris: "Seven minutes past one."
Rita: "I thought I told you-"
Norris: "I know what you told me, Rita. But isn't it a good job I came back early?"
Rita: "Yes, I suppose it is. Okay, Norris. Thank you. But why?"
Norris: "I was worried about you."
Rita: "Well, worry no more. I'm going upstairs for a lie down. You can cope on your own, can't you?"
Norris: "You should know I can by now, Rita."
Rita: "Yes. Sorry. I can't think straight. I'll see you later."
Norris: "Take as long as you like."
Rita: "I intend to."

She slowly made her way up to her flat and when she got there, poured herself a large vodka and fell into a chair.

Rita: "Alan flaming Bradley. Will I never be able to forget him?"

To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 3

Over the next few weeks, Rita decided to do some checking to make sure Alan Bradley was well and truly dead, and not walking around Rosamund and Coronation Streets. Seeing that Dave Grant had made her uneasy, and although she knew everyone looked like somebody, she also knew she could never totally relax around him until she was certain. She found what she was looking for and relaxed, knowing Alan Bradley was nothing more now than dust and bad memories. During all this time, Dave Grant had moved into his flat and was becoming friendly with his neighbours, once the ones who remembered realised he wasn't who he had the misfortune to look like.

It was lunchtime. Rita walked across the road to the Rovers and bumped into Dave outside.

Rita: "Hello, Dave. How are you? Not seen you for a few days."
Dave: "Hello, Rita. I'm fine. I've been busy sorting out the flat."
Rita: "Everything all unpacked now?"
Dave: "Yes. Though I wish I could say it was uncluttered. I'm not good at finding places to put things."
Rita: "Don't worry about it, love. It's a fault all men have."
Dave:(laughs) "You're probably right. I was wondering, if you don't think it's too much of a cheek..."
Rita: "What?"
Dave: "Well, if you'd consider coming over and helping me to get organised?"
Rita: "What, now?"
Dave: "It's your dinner hour, isn't it?"
Rita: "That's right."
Dave: "After you've shut up shop for the day would be fine."
Rita: "Okay. Why not? Better than sitting in front of the telly when there's nowt on. Or propping up the bar, just to give me something to do."
Dave: "Are you sure you don't mind?"
Rita: "Hey. You helped me, so now it's my turn. I'll be over as soon as I've got rid of Norris."
Dave: "Is that your husband?"
Rita: "No, love. Thank God! I'm a widow. Have been these past ten years. Norris is my assistant."
Dave: "I'm sorry."
Rita: "About me being a widow, or Norris?"
Dave: "Err... Both?"
Rita: "Accepted. Come on. Let me buy you a drink."
Dave: "I couldn't let you do that."
Rita: "Why not?"
Dave: "Because, as you were the first person I knew around here, I think I should buy you one. And besides, I owe you for your near seizure. Remember?"
Rita: "How could I forget?"

Dave held the door open for Rita and followed her to the bar where he ordered the drinks and sandwiches. Karen MacDonald spotted them and sneered.

Karen: "Didn't take her long, did it?"
Steve: "Now what are you on about?"
Karen: "Grandma over there, trying to snare the new bloke."
Steve: "Leave it out, Karen."
Karen: "Err... Why should I? You'd think she'd be well past that sort of thing."
Steve: "You don't know what you're talking about, as usual."
Rita: "Agreed."
Karen: "Err... Who asked you to stick your oar in? This happens to be a private converation."
Rita: "A private conversation loud enough for the entire street to hear."
Karen: "Why don't you keep your nose out? Or can't you see it with all that mascara?"
Rita: "I beg your pardon, lady?"
Karen: "Hasn't Fred told you then that it's the wrong season to look like a panda?"
Rita: "Well, never mind, Karen. At least you won't have to worry. Cheap little trollops are ALWAYS in season."
Karen: "Did you hear what she just called me?"
Steve: "Yes."
Karen: "What are you going to do about it?"
Steve: "Nothing."
Karen: "Are you going to sit there, and let her speak to me like that?"
Rita: "I just did. Isn't it time you started to fight your own battles, Karen? If you can't take insults, lady, don't dish them out."
Karen: "I'll say what I want. It's a free country."
Rita: "Yes, it is. That means we're all free to do what we want, within reason. I'm allowed to put on as much make-up as I like. While you're free to marry for a bet. Even when I was your age, I was never THAT desperate to hook a fella."
Karen: "Maybe not. But they'd have had to have been desperate to hook up with you. You've got it made, haven't you, Rita? All that money falling in your lap, while honest people like me have to struggle."
Rita: "Struggle?! Still out of a job, are you Karen? Still living off what Steve brings in?"
Karen: "I'm looking! Not that it's any of your business."
Rita: "Not hard enough. At least I've worked hard all my life. Even before I was married. I've never sponged off anyone."
Karen: "Oh, shut up, you old cow!"
Rita: "Oooh, name calling now, is it? Is that the best you can do? Why don't you just admit it, Karen? You set your sights on Steve because of his money. If he'd been broke, you wouldn't have looked twice at him."
Karen: "I'm not staying here to listen to this crap. Come on, Steve."
Steve: "Leave me out of it. Besides, you know it's true. Everyone knows it. You're trying to bankrupt me with your fancy ideas without putting a single penny in."
Rita: "If you're going to survive in the big, bad world, Karen, you've got to learn to give and take."
Karen: "Like you and your husbands, you mean? They gave you the money and you took it."
Rita: "I worked damn hard for 29 years to build up my business, and make it as successful as it is today. Just like your Steve's trying to do with his. Only his profits never stay long with your greedy hands around. It's time to grow up, Karen, and stop acting like you've had your lollipop taken away from you."
Karen: "If I HAD a lollipop, I wouldn't buy it from YOUR shop! You'd probably poison me."
Rita: "Don't tempt me, love."
Karen: "I'm off, with or without you, Steve."
Steve: "Without."
Rita: "Oh, and Karen? Before I forget. Alec says he wants you two out by the end of the month. He's selling the flat. See you."

Karen stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

Fred: "Well done, Rita."
Rita: "Thank you, Fred."
Steve: "Rita? Is it true about the flat?"
Rita: "No, love."
Steve: "What did you say it for?"
Rita: "To shut her up. Worked, didn't it?"
Steve: "Yeah. Shame I'll be on the receiving end of her tantrums when I get home."
Rita: "Ah, yes. But you can cope with that, can't you?"
Steve: "I've had plenty of practice. You're wicked, Rita."
Rita: "I have me moments. Though not that many these days."

Later that evening Rita was at Dave's flat organising his clutter.

Dave: "Oh, that's much better, Rita. Thank you."
Rita: "My pleasure. And you're right. It is much better."
Dave: "How can I ever repay you?"
Rita: "You don't have to."
Dave: "But I'd like to."
Rita: "Okay. A bag of chips?"
Dave: "Chips?"
Rita: "It's gone nine, and I certainly haven't had anything to eat since dinnertime."
Dave: "Come to think of it, neither have I. Okay, chips it is."
Rita: "Fine. Just as long as you don't think that makes me cheap."
Dave: "I'd never think that, Rita. Won't be long. And thanks again for all your help."
Rita: "Get going, before my stomach goes for me throat demanding food."
Dave: "Okay."

While he was gone, she got a couple of plates out to warm in the oven, then sat down and waited. She wondered how she could have been so wrong about him when he was obviously nothing like Alan Bradley, not even in the early days. She realised she was wandering into the past, so shook herself out of it. She decided to judge him on his own merits, rather than look for comparisons to the past. After about 20 minutes, Dave returned.

Dave: "The queue was terrible. It would've been quicker to have made them myself. Well, if I had any potatoes."
Rita: "Or oven chips."
Dave: "True. Here you are."
Rita: "Thanks. I've put a couple of plates in th'oven to warm up."
Dave: "Let's not bother with that, Rita. Can't face washing up. Not tonight."
Rita: "Fair enough. It was just a thought."
Dave: "And a very kind one. But then, you're a very kind lady."
Rita: You'll have me blushing, which is one thing I never do."
Dave: "Never?"
Rita: "Well..."

They ate their chips and chatted about general things, and some of their histories. Rita couldn't remember the last time she'd felt so relaxed in another man's company, even if that man was only a friend.

Rita: "Blimey! Have you seen the time? I've got to be up at five to do the papers."
Dave: "Can't you get Norris to do them?"
Rita: "No. It's too late to ask him now. I'll just have to crawl out of bed in four hours, and stick matchsticks in to keep me eyes open. THEN I'll leave him to it."
Dave: "Don't blame you. I'll walk you back."
Rita: "It's just round the corner."
Dave: "Can't I be a gentleman for once?"
Rita: "Oh, all right then. Just this once."
Dave: "You're far too independant for your own good, Mrs Sullivan."
Rita: "Too damn stubborn, you mean, Mr Grant."
Dave: "I wouldn't know about that. I'll get your coat."

They strolled back towards Rita's flat still chatting and trying not to laugh too loud in case they woke anyone up. She put the key in the lock and opened the door.

Rita: "Thank you for a lovely evening, Dave."
Dave: "Better than sitting in front of the telly, or propping up the bar?"
Rita: "Much better. I can't remember when I enjoyed meself so much."
Dave: "Perhaps we could do it again sometime?"
Rita: (smiles) "I'd like that very much."
Dave: "Can you put up with the gossip and the remarks, like in the pub at dinner?"
Rita: "After all these years, I've developed a hide like a rhino to any cheap cracks. Had to. What about you?"
Dave: "If you can, I can."
Rita: "Good. After all, we are only friends, aren't we?"
Dave: "Of course. We've got nothing to be ashamed of."
Rita: "Goodnight, Dave."
Dave: "Goodnight, sweet Rita. And sleep well."
Rita: "Don't worry. I'll be asleep as soon as me head hits that pillow."
Dave: "I know the feeling. See you tomorow then."
Rita: "Tomorrow."

He kissed her goodnight and walked home, stopping briefly to give a little wave, which she reciprocated. She suddenly felt afraid as she realised she was falling for him. But wondered if it was for himself, or because he looked so much like Alan. She shuddered.

"Rita: "Pull yourself together, Sullivan, and stop being so daft. You're far too old to mess up your life again."

With that she went in, got undressed and went to bed, but didn't sleep a wink.

To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 4

The next morning, Dave was firmly on her mind.

Norris: "Morning, Rita."
Rita: "Good morning, Norris."
Norris: "Are you okay? You still look very peaky."
Rita: "To tell you the truth, Norris, I didn't sleep much last night."
Norris: "Oh dear. Well, if you want to go back to bed, I can manage on my own."
Rita: "Thanks, Norris. I'll do that later. But first, I must talk to Emily. Is she up?"
Norris: "Yes, but she's still got her migraine."
Rita: "I won't bother her if she says she's not up to it. See you later."
---------------------------
Emily: "What can I do for you, Rita?"
Rita: "I'd like some advice, if you feel up to it."
Emily: "Of course. Why shouldn't I?"
Rita: "Norris says you still have a migraine."
Emily: "Mainly when he's around."
Rita: "I know what you mean."
Emily: "Sit down."
Rita: "Thanks."
Emily: "So, what's the problem?"
Rita: "Dave Grant."
Emily: "Ah. Is it because he looks like Alan Bradley?"
Rita: "I don't know. I'm so confused. I think I'm falling for him, but wonder if that's really the reason."
Emily: "I see."
Rita: "You remember what Alan were like before he... Well, you know."
Emily: "Yes."
Rita: "You're one of the few left round here who knows what he put me through."
Emily: "I don't think any of us will ever forget."
Rita: "Especially me."
Emily: "No."
Rita: "But Dave is so different from Alan. I just don't know who it is I'm really falling for. Is it Dave? Or is it the good times with Alan?"
Emily: "It's a difficult one, Rita."
Rita: "You're telling me. What am I to do, Emily?"
Emily: "I'm afraid you'll have to decide on that one yourself. I'm sorry."
Rita: (sighs) "I had a feeling you'd say that. I've been telling meself that since last night. Well, thanks anyway, Emily."
Emily: "I'm really sorry I haven't been much help."
Rita: "Don't worry about it. I'll let myself out. Bye."
Emily: "Bye, Rita."

Rita returned to her flat and flopped in a chair, sighing heavily and rubbing her forehead. When she eventually drifted off to sleep, she had nightmares of Alan trying to kill her, and woke up in a cold sweat. She got up and headed for the kitchen where she splashed cold water on her face before drying it. She leant against the sink, and sighed heavily in deep thought. The intercom interrupted her thoughts and she ignored it. When it stopped, she went to the window to see Dave walking away, making sure she was out of sight then sat on the arm of the chair.

Rita: "Eee, Rita. What a mess."

Downstairs in the shop, Dave walked in.

Norris: "Hello, Dave."
Dave: "Afternoon, Norris. Rita having her dinner, is she?"
Norris: "No. She's upstairs in her flat."
Dave: "Are you sure? Couldn't she have gone out?"
Norris: "I don't think so. I'd have heard her if she had."
Dave: "That's funny."
Norris: "What is?"
Dave: "I was round there a few minutes ago, but there was no answer."
Norris: "Perhaps she's asleep. She's a bit under the weather today."
Dave: "Oh dear. I am sorry to hear that. Nothing serious, I hope."
Norris: "I really have no idea. She said she hardly slept last night, and looked awful this morning."
Dave: "Well, if you see her before I do, will you tell her from me I hope she feels better soon?"
Norris: "Of course I will."
Dave: "Thanks. Bye, Norris."
Norris: "Goodbye."

Norris was worried, so he shut the shop and went upstairs. Rita tried to ignore the persistent knocking on the door at the top of the stairs she'd had put in after her last shop burglary by covering her ears, but realised whoever it was wouldn't go away. She went to the door.

Rita: "Who is it?"
Norris: "It's me."

She sighed, checked herself in the mirror then opened the door.

Rita: "Where's the fire?"
Norris: "There's no fire, Rita. I was worried about you."
Rita: "Who's minding the shop?"
Norris: "I've closed it."
Rita: "What?! Why?"
Norris: "After that Dave said he couldn't find you, I thought-"
Rita: "That I was lying up here as stiff as a poker, I presume."
Norris: "Well, it is possible."
Rita: "Obviously I'm not. So you can get back downstairs, and open up."
Norris: "Pardon me for caring(!)"
Rita: "And I appreciate it, Norris. I do really. I'm just tired and have a splitting headache, that's all. I'm sure I'll be right as rain tomorrow."
Norris: "Okay, Rita. You get plenty of rest."
Rita: "That's precisely what I've been trying to do."
Norris: "And go easy on the painkillers."
Rita: "Go!"

Over at the Rovers.

Dave: "Pint, please, Shelley."
Shelley: "Okay, love."
Dave: "By the way, have you seen Rita at all today?"
Shelley: "Afraid not. Why? Have you lost her?"
Dave: "She doesn't seem to be anywhere."
Fred: "What's that about Rita?"
Shelley: "Dave says she's vanished."
Dave: "Not vanished. Just can't find her. Norris said she was in her flat, but there was no response."
Fred: "That's worrying. Especially after last time."
Dave: "Last time?"
Fred: "She got carbon monoxide poisoning."
Dave: "Did she?"
Karen: "And she's been brain-dead ever since."
Dave: "I beg your pardon?"
Karen: "Pity she were found really."
Fred: "And if she'd died, your Steve could've gone to prison for murder."
Karen: "Hey, don't go laying the blame on Steve. It were nothing to do with him."
Fred: "Hasn't he told you?"
Karen: "Told me what?"
Fred: "It were all his fault. He incorrectly installed her gas fire."
Karen: "Don't be daft. She were obviously too tight-fisted to pay for it to be done properly."
Fred: "Aye, happen that's why she picked your Steve."
Karen: "You're talking rubbish."
Fred: "Ask him."
Karen: "I will, and he'll only say you're lying."
Fred: "Want to bet? Now, Dave, about Rita."
Dave: "There's not much to say. Mainly because Norris didn't say much."
Fred: "That is worrying when Norris knows nowt. I'll pop over later and see what I can find out."
Dave: "Good luck. You'll let me know if you find out anything?"
Fred: "Course I will."
Dave: "Thanks, Fred. She was my first friend round here, so naturally I'm worried about her."
Fred: "I know what you mean. I'm very fond of Rita meself. She's such a wonderful woman."
Dave: "I'll drink to that."

Later, Rita was still sitting by the window. She spotted Dave coming out of the pub and turn towards Rosamund Street, stop, about turn and head in her direction. She heard him buzz, swallowed hard, and picked up the handset.

Rita: "Yes? Oh, hello, Dave. Come on up."

She pressed the button, replaced the handset, opened the door and went into the kitchen.

Dave: "Are you okay?"
Rita: "Fine. Tea? Coffee?"
Dave: "Coffee, please. I called earlier, but there was no answer."
Rita: "I'm sorry."
Dave: "I was worried about you."
Rita: "What for?"
Dave: "Well, Norris-"
Rita: "I might have known. Norris is worse than an interferring old biddy. He tends to exaggerate things."
Dave: "You do look ill though, Rita."
Rita: "I'm fine. Just got a pounding headache I can't shift, which kept me awake last night."
Dave: "That's such a relief. I thought for a while you were avoiding me."
Rita: "Now what would I want to do that for?"
Dave: "Because I kissed you last night."
Rita: "Oh, that."
Dave: "I thought you were offended."
Rita: "Not a bit of it. I were quite flattered actually. Not many men these days are interested in kissing a 70-year-old pensioner."
Dave: "Except a 74-year-old pensioner."
Rita: "You're 74?"
Dave: "Unfortunately."
Rita: "Get away."
Dave: "It's true."
Rita: "You look more like you're in your fifties."
Dave: "I wish!"
Rita: "Me too. Oh well, since you're as past it as I am, kiss away!"

She was trying to joke her way out of the situation, but he took it as an invitation and kissed her tenderly. For a few seconds, she happily succumbed, until she came to her senses and pulled away.

Dave: "Rita? What's wrong?"
Rita: "I'm sorry, Dave."
Dave: "You led me on then push me away, and say you're sorry?!"
Rita: "You wouldn't understand."
Dave: "Try me."
Rita: "I can't. Even I don't understand. And I never led you on."
Dave: "Not much, Rita. I've fallen in love with you. I can't help it."
Rita: "Don't say things like that."
Dave: "You're a cold woman, Rita."
Rita: "I'm not. Dave, I..."
Dave: "What?"
Rita: "I'm very fond of you."
Dave: "But you don't love me."
Rita: "No. I don't think so."
Dave: "I'm obviously a stupid old fool."
Rita: "You're not."
Dave: "I'd better go. I'll see myself out."
Rita: "Dave!"

He ignored her as he stamped down the stairs and slammed the front door so hard, the whole flat shook.

Rita: "Oh, Dave."

Down in the shop, Fred entered carrying a plastic bag.

Fred: "Afternoon, Norris. Rita around, is she?"
Norris: "She's upstairs."
Fred: "Is she? I heard she'd gone quiet on us."
Norris: "Not so quiet now. I heard shouting."
Fred: "Shouting?"
Norris: "A man and Rita. I think he's left now."
Fred: "Is it all right if I go up and check she's okay?"
Norris: "I suppose so. Come this way."

Rita rushed to the door when she heard knocking.

Rita: "Dave! Oh, Fred."
Fred: "Dave's been here then, has he?"
Rita: "He just left. We had a row."
Fred: "I see. Well, I won't pry."
Rita: "Are you ill?"
Fred: "No. I heard you were. So I come bearing gifts."
Rita: "What gifts?"

Fred opened the bag and took out a packet of meat. He handed it to her.

Rita: "What's that?"
Fred: "Extra lean minced beef. Red meat's good for you when you're under the weather. And a lovely bit of rump."
Rita: "I don't want your flaming meat! I just want to be left alone!"
Fred: "But, Rita-"
Rita: "Leave me alone!"

She hit him over the head with the mince.

Rita: "Take that, and your rump, and get out of here!"

Fred was stunned, but did as ordered. Rita grabbed her bag and went to see Dave to try to clear the air.
Norris was surprised to see Fred appear covered in meat.

Norris: "Rita did that?"
Fred: "Aye, and I don't know why."
Norris: "I couldn't help overhearing. Perhaps she's still in a bad mood from the row before."
Fred: "It were that Dave upset her."
Norris: "Dave? What did he do?"
Fred: "No idea. Must've been bad though. I say, it must've been bad. In all the years I've known Rita, I've never seen her like that before.
----------------------
Dave: "I don't know why I let you in."
Rita: "I'm glad you did."
Dave: "What do you want?"
Rita: "To talk to you."
Dave: "Oh? Is there more? I thought you'd said everything already. Don't worry, Rita. I understand perfectly."
Rita: "That's just it. You don't. I didn't till just now."
Dave: "Look, Rita. I get the hint, so what is there to say?"
Rita: "Oh, Dave. You're so wrong, and that's my fault. I DO love you."
Dave: "What? Then what-"
Rita: "I was confused, what with you looking so much like... Anyway, I wanted time alone to work things out in my head. I wanted to be sure it was you, and not the ghosts of my past."
Dave: "And?"
Rita: "I told you. I love you."
Dave: "Not the past?"
Rita: "Not the past."
Dave: "Sure?"
Rita: "Positive. It's been very difficult for me to work out my feelings since you turned up that day. I was up all night so confused. But when you kissed me at the flat before, I finally realised it was you I'd fallen for."
Dave: "How can you be so sure?"
Rita: "Easy. I never felt that way about Alan. Not even at the start."
Dave: "You never loved him?"
Rita: "Oh, I did. He hurt me too many times though during those three years we were together before..."
Dave: "He tried to kill you."
Rita: "How did you-"
Dave: "I was told."
Rita: "Ah. So you know my life story."
Dave: "Not all of it. He sounds like he was a very nasty piece of work."
Rita: "Oh, he was. But he was such a charmer too."
Dave: "It couldn't have been an easy time for you."
Rita: "It wasn't."
Dave: "I really do understand your hesitation, Rita. And I apologise again for looking like him. But I'm nothing like him. I know you're probably thinking I'm just saying that, but if you give me a chance, I'll prove it to you."
Rita: "I'm willing to take the chance."
Dave: "Oh, Rita..."

To be continued....

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 5

The following months, Rita and Dave were very happy. Dave moved into her flat. It was December and Rita had already done the papers, before going back upstairs do get Dave's breakfast.

Dave: "Good morning, darling."
Rita: "Morning. Sleep well?"
Dave: "I always do."
Rita: "So I noticed. Sit down."
Dave: "Is something wrong?"
Rita: "No. I was just thinking."
Dave: "About Alan?"
Rita: "What makes you say that?"
Dave: "He died today. It was the 8th, wasn't it?"
Rita: "Yes, but how-"
Dave: "I was told."
Rita: "Seems you were told a lot of things."
Dave: "When you look like I do, people like to talk."
Rita: "So I see. Len died around this time too, nineteen years ago."
Dave: "Your precious Len."
Rita: "I'm sorry?"
Dave: "I understood it took a long time to let him go."
Rita: "It did. But I let him go when I got involved with Alan."
Dave: "So you say."
Rita: "I do. Dave?"
Dave: "Why do you never put away your old wedding photos when you get involved with someone else, Rita?"
Rita: "I never thought about it."
Dave: "It's very hurtful to see the man around before you came along. Makes you feel insecure."
Rita: "Yes, I suppose it does."
Dave: "Yet you never had a photo of you and Alan on display. Only Len."
Rita: "How did you know that? And don't say you were told."
Dave: "I was. You said you'd never marry again when Alan proposed to you, but you did. Why was that, Rita?"
Rita: "What is this?"

He looked at her and fear gripped her stomach as she recognised that look. The very same look Alan had given her before trying to kill her. Her mouth dried as realisation hit her like Alan's hand all those years ago.

Rita: "Alan?"
Alan: "Congratulations. I knew you'd get it, if I gave you enough hints."
Rita: "But...you're dead."
Alan: "Do I look dead? Do I feel dead, Rita?"
Rita: "I don't understand. You were killed. I'm imagining this."
Alan: "I'm perfectly real, Rita, as you know."
Rita: "I was there. You chased me. I saw you lying there!"
Alan: "You saw my BROTHER, Rita."
Rita: "What brother?"
Alan: "My twin brother."
Rita: "Alan never mentioned a brother."
Alan: "I never mentioned a lot of things, Rita. Shall I prove it's me? Or have you realised that all by yourself?"
Rita: "You came to Blackpool!"
Alan: "I asked my brother to go and get you. His car was in for a service, so he took mine. I wanted to stay where I could be seen, so you couldn't accuse me of anything again. Only he died. And you killed him."
Rita: "I didn't! It was an accident. He ran in front of the tram!"
Alan: "Chasing you. In my book, Rita, that makes you responsible. And it's one of the things you have to pay for."
Rita: "What?"
Alan: "That, and marrying the dear, departed Mr Sullivan and not me. And that's only the beginning."
Rita: "Why are you doing this?"
Alan: "You know why. You grassed me up."
Rita: "You tried to kill me!"
Alan: "Because you put the building society in the picture. It was only what you deserved. After all, it's not as if you didn't know about my temper, Rita. You obviously have a death wish."
Rita: "HAVE a death wish?"
Alan: "You keep angering me, Rita. You married someone else."
Rita: "YOU were dead!"
Alan: "Wishful thinking. I couldn't believe it when I saw the announcement in the paper. After you turned me down as well. Twice."
Rita: "Okay, so I turned you down. So what? All you ever wanted was my money, not me. Never me."
Alan: "I did want you, Rita."
Rita: "Oh, aye. And Gloria Todd, until she dumped you."
Alan: "I dumped HER!"
Rita: "Stop lying, Alan. Mike told me. In fact, after you died, Mike told me a lot of things."
Alan: "Like what?"
Rita: "All your man-to-man chats. And how he mentioned I had a few bob."
Alan: "He had no right. They were private conversations."
Rita: "YOU were dead, so it made no odds."
Alan: "I'll get that little pipsqueak an' all."
Rita: "Course you will(!) So, since you're not dead after all, where've you been these past thirteen years?"
Alan: "Waiting my chance."
Rita: "For what?"
Alan: "To get you. Thirteen years, eh? Unlucky for you."
Rita: "What's that supposed to mean?"
Alan: "Time to say goodbye to life, Rita. Only there's no one, and no trams around to help you this time."
Rita: "That's where you're wrong. Norris is downstairs."
Alan: "Oh, so he is."

Alan got up, went to the phone and dialled, not taking his eyes off her.

Rita: "What are you doing?"
Alan: "You'll see. Hello, Norris? Rita won't be down for a while and says you need to go to the wholesaler's. Yes, now. Yes, you can shut the shop. Take your time. Goodbye, Norris."

He hung up, still looking at Rita. Rita was terrified, but hoped she wasn't showing it.

Alan: "There. Now there's no one around to save the day."
Rita: "You're cracked."
Alan: "I must be to have taken up with you in the first place."
Rita: "I'm getting out of here."
Alan: "You're not going anywhere!"

She ran to the front door, but he was quicker and barred her way. She went for the phone, but they struggled and he pushed her over, before yanking it out of its socket. As she got to her feet, Alan went into the kitchen and came back with a pair of scissors. She picked up the phone and threw it at him. He just smiled, and cut a
good length of the cable.

Rita: "You're crazy."
Alan: "And you'll soon be dead, so it'll make no difference to you, will it?"
Rita: "I have no intention of dying just yet, Alan."
Alan: "But you have no say in the matter, Rita. Look at you. You're not as active as you once were. You can't move quick enough to get away from me unlike last time. But as you'll have seen, I'm just as quick and agile. I've waited thirteen long years for this, Rita, and you will not spoil my fun."

She watched him wrap the cable around his fist tightly. She looked around in desperation and ran towards the window, hammering on it and looking over her shoulder. Then she saw the blur of his hands and felt the cable around her throat as he pulled her backwards. She tried in vain to loosen it.

Alan: "I told you you'd never get away, Rita. Very stupid banging on the window. Everyone'll be at work. Don't you think I haven't planned this to the very last detail? I've worked for years on this. Hooking you like a fish, then reeling you in. You really are a stupid woman, Rita. If you had half a brain, you'd not have got involved with me. Maybe it was the carbon monoxide. I've heard about your last two cases of bad judgement. Alec Gilroy of all people! Brain-dead, or desperate? Only you know which it was."

Rita couldn't breathe and began to feel darkness closing in on her. Jenny and Martin saved her in the nick of time before, but now it looked like it finally was the end. She closed her eyes, too weak to struggle anymore. She thought of her past, and resigned herself to her fate when she heard him cry out and his grip loosened. She opened her eyes to see him clutching his back, his face contorted in pain. She took in as much air as she could before pushing him away, removed the cable and hauled herself up slowly. She held her neck and looked at him.

Alan: "Help me!"
Rita: "Help you?"
Alan: "My back's gone."
Rita: (laughs & coughs) And you said you were more agile. It's ironic, Alan."

She stumbled to the door and went to get help. The police arrived and found him in the same position. He was arrested, charged and sentenced for attempted murder. Rita recovered and vowed never to get emotionally involved with any man ever again.


The End

Patsy

[pearly queen]

Alan Bradley is a total fecking idiot to fail on such a basic obstacle to his long-awaited revenge plan.
Obviously mere telephone cable is not strong enough to choke Reet through her layers of industrial strength make-up from Wickes.
It must have been like trying to strangle Nelson's column - no wonder he done his back in, the poor fool.

[RitaLittlewood]

LOL! I hadn't thought of it that way before. The age I used for Alan's lies was Mark Eden's.

Patsy