Road Trip – Part 3
8.15 pm GMT
Eventon
As Kit pulled up at the
bottom of the hill, the three girls could hear noises in the near distance.
“Who’s up at the
Hanging Tree,” Eve said as she got out of the car.
“I’m not sure,” Jo
said, “but I want you two girls to stay down here.”
“Not a chance,” Kit
said, Eve nodding in agreement.
“All right,” Jo said,
“but we go up quietly, from the other side of the hill – and not a word until
we know what is going on.”
“This way,” Eve said as
they walked to the far side of the hill, behind the chapel, and then started to
make their way slowly up the hill. As
they got closer, they heard music and laughter.
“Come on, Your
Lordship,” one male voice said, “down in one.
“Down in one, Down in
one, Down in one...”
“What the... Is that John?”
Eve nodded as they
watched from the shadows, while John drank a pint of what looked like Guinness
in one go, some of the local boys egging him on.
“There now, John –
doesn’t that feel so much better?”
“The little bitch,” Kit
snarled as she saw Arabella, standing leaning on the tree as she looked at
John.
“I... I thought we were going to meet alone,” John
gasped as he looked at her.
“Oh you don’t mind some
of my friends been here, do you,” she said in her deep voice. “They didn’t want to pass on the opportunity
of finally meeting the Marquess of Eventon, the Lord of the manor.”
“I’m not... And this...
I said I’d meet you here because of what this place means to my family.”
“Oh we know what this
place means to the Gaunts,” one of the local boys said, “the place you hung our
ancestors.”
“No – not that...”
“Oh relax,” Arabella
said as she walked forward and looked at John, “now, what did you want to say
to me?”
“Please – can we talk
alone...”
“No,” she said quietly,
“tell me now!”
“I... I wanted to say... That I loved you...”
“Of course you do,”
Arabella purred, “all of my boys do. And
I thank them for that – as well as love them all the same.”
“But I really...”
“Give the boy another
drink,” another of the locals said, “make him a real man.”
“Here – drink.”
John took the bottle
that was handed to him, and took a long drink – before he dropped to his knees
and threw up onto the grass.
“Oh what a little
baby,” the boy laughed, and as John looked up he saw Arabella laughing as well.
“You...”
“Come on,” the boys
said as they moved off, Arabella laughing as she walked away with them and left
John kneeling on the grass.
“Shit,” Eve said as she
started to walk over, Kit and Jo walking with her as she approached her
brother. “John? John, are you all right...”
“They dared – they
dared desecrate here,” her brother said quietly as he tried to stand up, “I
should kill them right here, right now...”
“That,” Jo said as she
caught his unsteady body, “is the drink talking. Come on – you go back with Kit and me, and
Eve can drive the jeep back.”
“Come on – lean on me,”
Christine said as she helped John up, the two of them walking slowly down the
hill.
“I’ll kill her for
this,” Eve whispered.
“No – let’s get you all
home, get him into his bed,” Jo said, “and then we can talk about how you may
have your revenge...”
4 pm
Sebring
“Susan can I have a
word for a second please?” Madame asked as she walked into the lobby.
“I think I’m free…” Susan looked round and said “so yes. What is on your mind?”
“Look I just got a text
message from Maisha,” Shirley said, “and I wanted to bounce her idea off you.”
“Now that sounds
intriguing, what did Maisha write?”
“She thinks that the Sisterhood
ought to have its own medals as recognition of outstanding service.”
“I heard Charlotte once
propose that. She wondered what it would
involve, however.”
“What she has in mind
is a Meritorious Service Medal, a Distinguished Service Medal, and a Cross of
Valor.”
“Well Shirley I think
it’s a great idea.”
“Good – we can consult
with Charlotte when we see her. I can
think of some worthy recipients already.”
“Indeed,” Susan said as
Tanera came over. “Everything is in
readiness for tonight, Madame,” she said with a smile.
“Excellent – now we can
relax for the evening.”
In the garage, House
was wheeling Jeannie in, now dressed in a leather jacket, jeans and boots.
"Now it's all
quieter she and Jeff can shoot the pictures for the advertising," Barbara said
as she stood talking to Denice, while Winston carefully lifted Jeannie into the
driver’s seat.
"Can I have that
million dollar smile Jeannie," the photographer asked.
"Like this?" Jeannie leaned forward and rested her chin on
her hands as she smiled.
"Perfect." Jeff started to take the pictures as he
walked round.
"How does she do
this, I know she must be tired as hell from the press launch, and yet she looks
so amazing?" asked Denice.
"It's
professionalism I suppose, but they ask and she delivers...Sometimes my
daughter amazes even me."
"Well I am very
impressed."
"Winston, can we
have her reclining on the front of the car?"
"Coming up,"
House said as he lifted Jeannie out and helped position her for the next
photographs.
9.30 pm GMT
Lardarn House
As Tom walked into the
hallway, he was surprised to see Eve and Jo walking in, supporting John between
them as Christine closed the main door.
“What the... what happened to John?”
“He’s fine Dad – he
just drank something that disagreed with him.
Let Jo and me get him to bed, and then I’ll tell you what happened.”
“Okay – but I want you
to come and tell me,” Tom said as he watched the three of them walk John up the
stairs.
“I loved her – I really
loved her,” he mumbled as they walked into his bedroom, Jo sitting him on the
bed and holding him as Eve removed his shoes, socks and trousers.
“Can you get his shirt
off,” she said, Jo nodding as she removed his top while she pulled the covers
back, and they made sure she was lying on his side before they covered him
over.
“I’ll stay and keep an
eye on him,” Kit said as she removed his glasses, folding the legs and putting
them on his bedside table before she covered him over. As Jo watched, she stroked his cheek with the
back of her hand and then gently kissed his forehead.
“Come on,” Eve said,
“we’d better go and tell Dad what happened.”
Jo nodded as they left
the room and closed the door, before walking quietly down the stairs and into
the front room.
“Your mother is reading
a bedtime story to Clodagh,” Tom said as they found him sitting with Caroline,
“Mandy, Will and Alice are reviewing the photos in the library, and Ama and
Nikki have gone with Aileen to make some cocoa.”
“Which left me talking
to Tom about security,” Caroline said, “but he said you brought John back
somewhat worse for wear. What happened?”
“If I tell you Dad,”
Eve said, “you must promise not to be mad at him.”
“It wasn’t his fault,
was it?”
“Yes – and no. Aileen told us he had arranged to meet
someone by the Hanging Tree. Jo and I
went with Kit, because we were worried about him.”
“And?”
Eve looked at Jo, who
took her glasses off and rubbed her eyes.
“When we got there, we saw a group of teenagers at the tree – they all
had some drink in them and with them, and John was being encouraged to drink a
Guinness in one go. Something told me it
was not the first drink he’s been encouraged to have in one tonight.”
“Let me guess,” Tom
said with a sigh, “Arabella Sutton?”
“I’m afraid so Dad,”
Eve said, “he was drunk, and wanted to talk to her on her own, but she insisted
he said what he had to say in front of the local boys – and made fun of him as
he did it.”
“So his state?”
“May have something to
do with the fact they made him drink a lot of Bushmills – he threw up and they
went off laughing,” Jo said with a sigh.
“He just needs to sleep it off – Christine is keeping an eye on him for
now.”
“Okay then,” Tom said
quietly, “I won’t say anything to him unless he talks to me, but the fact they
were drinking there...”
“Let me talk to
Arabella about that father,” Eve said quietly, “that is my job.”
“There you are,” Ama
said as she brought in a tray of mugs, “would you like to take one?”
“Thank you Ama – I do
feel a bit cold,” Jo said as she looked at Caroline. “This is just what the doctor ordered.”
“Thank you – Mom, Alice
was wondering if she could have a word.”
“Sure – what are you
two going to do?”
“Aileen has offered to show
us a comedy program she says I will appreciate – Father Ted?”
Caroline looked at Tom,
who just shook his head. “Tell her to
show the Eurovision one – and no other.”
“Of course,” Ama said
as she walked out.
“I’m missing something,
aren’t I?”
“I’ll show you later,”
Tom said as he and Caroline left Jo with Eve.
“Okay,” Jo said, “let
me say something, and don’t shoot the messenger.”
“OH – what’s that?”
“Act in anger, repent
at leisure. I understand you want to get
your own back, but sleep on it first.”
“Oh I intend to – and
so does Kit...”
A short while later, Paula came and joined
both Tom and Caroline in the main room.
“So – do you like what
I am suggesting?” Caroline said as she sat forward.
“It’s a thorough
report...”
"Well if you act on
my ideas Tom, then I think that a lot of your fears can be put to bed."
"I agree Caroline,”
Tom said, “and thank you for doing this."
Caroline smiled as she
said "Thank me AFTER you see my bill."
"Oh dear,"
the Irish duke laughed, “going to be steep eh?"
"Well the
contractors I have in mind to do the upgrades don't come cheap,” Caroline said,
“but they are the very best, and I guarantee them to be totally secure in their
handling of your data."
"Well that
reassures me."
"We will give the
local Garda, and the security firm that handles the existing security a brief
outline, but what we do for the personal quarters will be monitored from London
by true experts."
"I am glad I asked
you to do this..."
"So am I."
Paula said as she handed them a nightcap. "I knew your mother Caroline,
she'd be so impressed at you making such a success of two careers."
“I like to think she
would be – my grandfather certainly is.”
“So if we proceed?”
"When everything
is in place, I will ask a couple of friends - both South African intelligence
agents - to test the system and see if they can spot any weaknesses. If they
can't then I know things are as good as I can get them."
"Well you are
thorough Caroline...I am so impressed," Tom Lardarn smiled.
“And with that, we have
the shoot tomorrow.”
7 pm
Sebring Hospitality Suite
“Well, here we go again
– I am so looking forward to my bed tonight,” Jeannie said as House wheeled her
into the large room. He was wearing a
fitted suit, white shirt and tie, while Jeannie wore a black cocktail dress and
dark tights with high heels.
“Well, say the word if
you need to leave early...”
“Ah Jeannie – you are
ready to dazzle us all?”
“I hope so Giorgio,”
she said as he leaned down and kissed her.
“I knew this would be a
long weekend,” Jeannie said as she looked to the door.
“Come on Dad,” Barbara
said as they came in, “it’s not going to be that bad...”
"I wish I knew the
words to express how much I hate these affairs," John said as he stood,
nervously fingering his collar.
"I know Dad,” Barbara said, “you'd be far happier hanging out with the
drivers, but this is obligatory for Jeannie to attend, and we need be here with
her."
"I know love, but
still..."
"Granddad try to
smile please," Jeannie said as she wheeled herself over.
"He's trying
darling." Barbara kissed her daughter.
"How are you
holding up Winston?" John shook hands.
"Oh I'll survive
the night, but this is all a bit tedious."
“Well, at least we made
it,” Sandy said as she and Heather came in, both women wearing blue cocktail
dresses. Sands followed with George, the
young girl wearing a blue dress and George the regulation suit, shirt and tie.
“Welcome to the party,”
Jeannie said as she came over, “I promise you, it won’t be too painful. Boring possible, but not too painful.”
“Oh it should still be
fun,” Nessa said as she came in wearing a black sheath dress.
“Let me guess, a
drink?”
“OH yes,” Jeannie said
with a smile as the waiter passed by, and Sandy grabbed two glasses.
“Can I try one?”
“Well, if you want to,”
Heather said as she took two glasses as well.
"A not so virginal
cocktail for you Jeans." Sandy passed her the drink.
"Oh that
helps," Jeannie smiled as she sipped it.
"Well mine tastes
awful," Sands shook her head.
"Well you wanted
to try it."
“I know,” Sands said as
Heather took the glass, "but I think I'll stick to drinking Coke
Mom."
"Sensible
girl." Heather nodded.
"Can I say how
smashing all you Richmond ladies look tonight?" Winston spoke.
“Why thank you,” Nessa
said, “We do come out of the wash rather well, don’t we?”
“So remember,” Jan said
as she came in with Katherine, Katy and Bev, all wearing part dresses, “we stay
and talk to a few people, and then slip quietly away.”
“It helps all of us
need to be up early in the morning,” Jan said as she took two drinks from a
tray.
"No alcohol
remember Katy," Katherine spoke.
"I know the rules
Gran." Katy grinned, "but I'd rather like a small glass of wine later
with my meal."
"Well that I might
allow," Jan smiled.
"And me Aunt
Jan?" Bev laughed.
"Oh if you are
good,” Jan said, “you are only 13 remember."
"I know," Bev
rolled her eyes, "oh do I know!"
“Catherine – have you
had a good day,” Juliette said as Catherine came in with Helen.
“We have – Marina and
Kylie will be along shortly,” Catherine said as Helen saw Penny smile from the
other side of the room.
“If you will excuse
me?”
“Of course,” Catherine
said as Helen made her way over to the other side of the room.
“Catherine – we haven’t
really had the chance to talk,” Shirley said as she walked over.
“I’m afraid not – you
have had a hectic day. How is John?”
“He should be here
shortly,” Shirley said, “he was meeting Henri and Jeanne first.”
“Alan – I did not know
you had been invited here as well?”
“Hello Juan,” Alan
Kennedy said as he shook Juan’s hand.
“It came as a shock to me as well, but we were all invited as the guests
of Xavier International.”
“So the children are
here as well?”
“Oh yes,” Alan said as
he looked at Sharon, who was standing with Andrew and Dawn as they talked to
Abby. Sharon was wearing a short
cocktail dress, while Andrew wore a suit and Dawn a party dress.
“So I hear you are
handling the defence against the AMININCO bid?”
“Indeed – but I believe
they are here as well. If nothing else,
Shirley Xavier is even handed.”
“So has David...”
“Juan – Alan – may I
bend your ears for a few moments?”
“I was surprised to see
you here Sharon – but then I remembered your father is working for our friend
Shirley. So this is a work trip?”
“Not if I can help it,”
Sharon said as she put her arm round Andrew’s shoulders. “I want the kids and Dad to have some fun as
well.”
“Sharon – you’ve made
it here as well?”
“Ally, Nell – who else
is here?”
“Well, Carina is around
here somewhere...”
“Look – why don’t we
get together for breakfast tomorrow, before the race starts.”
“Sounds good – let me
introduce you to some of my friends.
Doc, Pepsi, Becca – this is Sharon Kennedy, one of the debutantes this
year. Sharon, meet Anna Carlton, Nikki
Broadhurst and Becca Morse.”
“It’s a pleasure to
meet you all,” Sharon said as she shook their hands, looking into Doc’s eyes as
they did so.
“I’m sorry – have we
met?”
“Sharon, can we get a
drink?”
“Of course – come on
you two,” Sharon said, “I hope I get a chance to talk to you all over the
weekend.”
“Are you all right,
Doc,” Abby said.
“I’m not sure – where’s
Carina?”
"Can someone go
rescue my husband please," Amelia Murchardo said as she came over, “That
old bore has Alan Kennedy and him totally trapped talking about the long term
future for interest rates."
"Oh dear, not
fun." Shirley smiled, "I'll do the duties, I need to chat with Alan
anyway."
"Thank you Shirley."
"I hate people who
talk business at cocktail parties as well." Shirley put down her drink and
walked slowly over.
“Alan, Juan,” she said
in her deep voice, “forgive me, sir, but I need to borrow these two fine
gentlemen for a few minutes.”
“Of course Miss
Xavier,” the older man said as she took both men by their arms and walked them away.
“Thank you,” Juan said
as his wife came over.
“My pleasure – Alan,
having dragged you from one business thing, I regret I must ask you a business
related question.”
“Oh?”
“John and I would like
your family to join us for breakfast tomorrow – we can talk then. For now, you must introduce me to the rest of
your family...”
“Miss Stone – I am so
glad you were able to make it,” Giorgio said as he and Giovanna welcomed
Cassandra and Rick.
"It was nice of
you to invite us Giorgio," Cassie accepted a drink.
"Well a major
movie star like yourself cannot but help make our little cocktail party
memorable."
"And anyway we
have a lot of friends here as well." Rick snagged drinks from a passing
waiter.
“Indeed – Diana, may I
say Abby looks more beautiful every time I see her?”
“You may, and I accept
the compliment,” Diana said as she kissed her friend. “Caroline would want me to say hello is she
was here.”
“Oh yes – I heard from
Mum and Dad they are having an amazing shoot over there. I envy them in a way – I love spending time
with Uncle Tom and the family.”
“Jack – how is the
assignment going,” Juliette said as she saw Jack Linklater walking round the
room.
“Oh I am enjoying
myself again,” Jack said with a smile, “you should see the photo I got of the
van Roons round the pool earlier...”
“Did you tell Giorgio
what you were doing?”
“Now Juliette – would I
have my camera out here if that was not the case?”
He then smiled as he
took a picture of Jeannie and Sandra talking together.
“That, and he said if I
got that one he wanted a copy...”
“There you are,” Paulie
said as Pussy came in. “Have a drink.”
“Thanks,” Pussy said as
she saw Jan whisper to Giorgio and then Henri, before the four Carter family
member slipped out.
"So have you been in contact with your Uncle Alex Pat?" Paulie asked.
"I have,” Pussy
said as she took another drink, “we have set a date for the baptism, and
Frieda's parents are happy at our deal that Pauline will be a van Roon by name,
but raised as a Catholic in her mothers faith."
"Well it was a logical compromise," Gus intervened.
"True Dad."
"So are you a
little less tense darling?"
"These drinks help
Mom...we had everything so perfectly planned for New York..."
"Well babies don't
always know what is scheduled." Gus laughed gently.
"I guess not
dad." Pussy shook her head. “And
she is so beautiful as well.”
"Enjoying
yourselves?" Juliette asked Janine and Henri as she walked over.
"I am, he's
not." Janine replied. "He's fretting being away from the car."
Henri nodded as he
looked round. "There are things I
could be doing..."
"Henri darling,”
Janine said quietly, “it's now in the hands of Clint and the boys, if it isn't
right now, then it never will be."
"I know Janine
darling," he kissed her, "but I have always worried this close to
races."
"Is it true James
Hunt used to get smashed at affairs like this Henri?" Ju asked.
"He did, James was
a one of a kind though, most of us, including I'm happy to say the girls
tonight have always abstained before races, just like Nikki over there always
did."
"Without being too
horrid I'm not sure whose injuries make them more unusually attractive?"
Janine mused, "yours or his."
"I hope
mine," Henri kissed Janine again.
“But that is what John’s book is exploring in a way.”
"Well have you
enjoyed yourself so far Toni?" Sandy asked Antoinette as she walked over.
"I have, but ask
me again after the race please... If I
get that shit hairpin right all the time then my happiness will be
perfect."
"I have my own least
favourite bends as well."
"I think if you
ask every driver who has ever driven this circuit, then he will admit that he has
a pet hate," Mario Andretti came over and joined the conversation.
"Did you?"
"Like Toni here,
my bête noir was that hairpin,” Mario said quietly, “it looks so much easier than
it actually is. I know they have changed
it to make it easier..."
“EASIER!”
“Well yes – you should
have seen it when I was starting...”
“Anna Darling – are you
having a fun evening,” Kylie drawled as Doc came over to join her and Carina.
“I am actually – but I
need your expert opinions on something.”
“Oh really – what?”
“Cari,” Doc said,
“you’ve met Sharon Kennedy haven’t you?
Socially?”
“Yeah I have,” Cari
said quietly, “why?”
“Because I look at
her,” Doc whispered, “and I see her in a skin tight catsuit and thousand dollar
leather boots.”
“Am I missing
something,” Kylie said as Cari looked over.
“No – no you’re not
wrong,” Cari said, “but do nothing for now.
We’ll talk tomorrow...”
"Tanera you have done fabulously," Giorgio kissed the Indian girl.
"THANK YOU!"
"Thank you Mr
Mancini," she blushed.
“So how many cars do we
have in tomorrow’s race?”
"There are 51
entries," Sandy smiled at Peter Barrons who headed Lerrabella US, “as we told
your boss, we will just be happy finishing the 12 hours."
“Oh I am sure you will
do extremely well...”
“The party really seems
to be going well,” Tonia said as she and Roy came in, “sorry we’re late Sandy –
something that we had to deal with first.”
“No problem – got
everything memorized for tomorrow?”
“Indeed – and my crib
sheets ready. Where’s Jan?”
“Having a quiet night
with the family...”
8.30 pm
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant
4731 Lakeview Drive, Sebring
“Now this is better,”
Jan said with a smile as she sipped her drink, “a nice quiet night with the
family.”
“Interesting place,”
Bev said as the waiter cleared the plates away, “Good sharer platter as well.”
“Well some nachos, some
poppers, and we’re set up for our main courses,” Katherine said. “Are you sure you don’t want a small glass of
wine Jan?”
“I’d better not Mom –
None of the others are, but the girls can get away with it for tonight.”
Katherine nodded as she
poured some wine into the three glasses.
“So what are the
schedules like for race day?” Bev asked as the waiter moved away towards the
kitchen.
“We talk the tactics
over, we do last minute changes, but basically we try and rest because we are
hopefully going to be up till quite late at night.” Jan replied
“But it’s early nights
all round tonight so we can be can be at the track early,” Katherine sipped her
drink, “and EVERYTHING must be in place by start time at 10.40.”
“On the plus side,”
Katy said, “a good night’s sleep after, and a party on Sunday afternoon.”
“Well, that does make
up for it – what will we be wearing?”
“The RCM coveralls –
you’ll see them in the morning,” Katy said with a grin.
“Here we are ladies –
Salmon Don Jose?”
“That will be for me,”
Jan said as the plate was put in front of her.
“Chicken San Antonio?”
“I’ll have that,” Katy
said with a smile.
“Steak Chapala?”
“For me,” Bev said with
a smile.
“Which means the
Chicken Arizona is for you,” the waiter said as the last plate was put in front
of Katherine. “Enjoy the meal ladies.”
“Thank you,” Katherine
said as the waiter went off. “Well, I
suggest we all dig in.”
“You do not have to
tell me twice,” Bev said as she cut into her steak and started to eat, smiling
as she chewed. “Now this is good...”
“It’s been a tough week
so far,” Jan said, “but I think we’re ready now, touch wood.”
“I’m sure you’re going
to be fantastic Aunt Jan – it’s been a real eye-opener to be here all week.”
“Do you know what my
nightmare is?” Jan said quietly.
“No Mom,” Katy spoke.
“That somehow I crash
on Lap One…”
“Don’t even think it
darling,” Katherine patted her daughter’s hand.
“All that time, work,
effort, and money would have been wasted.”
“Well just be careful
then.” Bev smiled.
“Oh I will be – I’ll
let Antoinette go first...”
The laughter was real
as they kept eating, talking about what they wanted to do in the morning.
Suddenly, Katy stopped
eating and looked up.
“What is it darling?”
“I’ve heard Abby talk
about this, but... Someone’s taking
photos of us Mom.”
Bev immediately looked
round, and then saw someone duck out of the dining area.
“Stay here,” she said
quietly as she wiped her mouth, put her napkin down and walked towards the rest
rooms – and then quickly moved to the entrance area.
“Can I help you Miss?”
“Oh I’m sorry – I
thought I saw a man I knew pass through here a minute ago. My uncle?”
“Oh yes – he said he
was going to give you a message, but he just left. Shall I get someone to call him back?”
“No – no it’s
fine. I’m sure he will meet us later,”
Bev said as she went back to the table.
“Well?”
“Whoever it was did a
runner – let’s finish our meal and then get that early night.”
9.30 pm
Sebring Hospitality Suite
“I look forward to
seeing you tomorrow,” Shirley said as she shook the hands of the guests, and
they headed from the room.
“People are slipping
away Mr Mancini, can I get the staff to start cleaning up and putting things in
place for the morning?” Tanera asked.
“Please do Tanera, and
Thank You so much for managing such a great event for us.”
“It was my pleasure,”
Tanera said with a smile, “and I just hope that people enjoy themselves as well
tomorrow.”
“I think we had better
go as well Giorgio.” Barbara smiled, “Jeannie needs her beauty sleep.”
“I understand,” the
Italian smiled.
“And she does mean
sleep,” Jeannie said as she let him kiss her, “Winston doesn’t get to give me
my birthday present at least until after the race.”
“Oh!” Giorgio laughed
as he got the double-meaning. “Well,
sleep well, and I will see you here tomorrow.”
“Time for you girls to
be in bed.” Henri said as he tapped his watch.
“We know,” Toni and
Sandy replied together.
“We will make sure she
gets a good eight hours solid sleep won’t we guys?” Heather asked.
“We will,” George
laughed, “even if Sands and I have to slip her a sleeping pill.”
“Well she needs be
alert in time for the drivers meeting.” Henri laughed as well, “Just remember
that.”
“Are you ready to go as
well darling?” Janine whispered in Henri’s ear.
“I am.”
“Janine, remember my
father can’t be tired either,” Jeanne spoke. “He gets less rest on race day
then anyone.”
“Spoilsport,” Janine
joined the laughter.
"What time do you
need the girls on duty Augie?" Pippa asked as she and Grace herded a very
tired Poppy towards the exit.
“If they can be here
for eight thirty, that will be wonderful,” Augie said. “You heard that, Anna and Sarah?”
“We did – see you
tomorrow,” the two girls said as they walked out.
“Come on,” John said as
he put his arm round Shirley, “you need your sleep as well.”
“If you insist...”
“Tomorrow will be a
good day,” Giorgio said as Tanera organised the collection of glasses and
plates, and others began to set up tables.
Saturday 19th March
9 am GMT
Lardarn House
“Good morning,” Alice
said as she came into the dining room, “and how is everyone today?”
“Well, we’re fine,”
Paula said as she sat with Tom. “I
haven’t seen Eve or John yet, but I think they had a late night. Good morning, both of you.”
“Good morning,” Ama
said as she came in with Nikki, “Mom will be down in a little while.”
“No problem – help
yourselves to some fruit juice and cereal,” Paula said as they heard the front
door open and close.
“That sounds like an
early riser coming in,” Alice said with a smile.
“I owe you one Alice
MacKinnon!” Jo sighed as she slumped into a chair at the breakfast table. “What
is this thing you have about me walking huge dogs?”
“Did you get some good
pictures?”
“Well Kevin is in
raptures,” Jo said as Aileen came in and sat down as well.
“Then,” Alice said
quietly, “that is all that matters Greyhound.”
“Oh? It doesn’t matter that I was up at the butt crack
of dawn? In hair and makeup at six thirty, and then had those two miniature
ponies that pass for dogs practically pull my arms out of the sockets?”
“As I said Jo,” Alice
said with the sweetest of smiles, “as long as the final pictures are great…”
“I just looked at
Kevin’s computer and you will love them,” Caroline slipped into a chair at the
table. “But I’m glad it wasn’t me walking them.”
“Count yourself VERY
lucky Face,” Jo shook her head.
“I don’t know what the
problem is, they are really just big puppies still,” Aileen laughed.
“Yes, but the word you
need to emphasise is BIG,” Jo said as she bit into a pastry.
“Good morning,” Tom
said as Mandy and Will came in, Eve and Stephen coming behind them.
“Jo Darling I just saw
the Wolfhound pictures,” Mandy smiled.
“Even I was impressed,”
Will spoke as he poured coffee.
“Well thank you…”
“She’s been complaining
a lot about them.” Clodagh looked up.
“Well as a former model
I can understand why darling,” her mother said as she looked over.
“Never work with
children and animals.” Eve Stone laughed as she took a coffee mug from Will.
“Golden rule for acting
AND modeling.” Mandy laughed.
“Good morning
everyone,” John said as he walked in with Eve, “could I have some water
please?”
“How are you feeling
Son,” Tom said quietly.
“I have felt better –
I’m sorry if I upset anyone last night.”
“Forget it,” Paula
said, “have a drink, eat some breakfast, and you’ll feel better.”
“How is he,” Jo
whispered to Eve.
“He’ll be fine – but
Kit and I are keeping him away from a certain brunette if she shows up today.”
“And if she does?”
“Just stay out of our
way...”
5.30 am
Sebring – the Pit Lane
“Gentlemen,” Henri said
as he came into the garage, “what is our situation?”
“Car’s ready to run
boss,” Clint said, “and we’ve got everything arranged.”
“Good – and fuel?”
“I heard that Henri
Marais,” Katherine called out from the Winnebago, “Bev and I are hard at work.”
“The bacon smells
divine,” Henri said with a smile as he looked at the crew. They were in their new coveralls – pale blue,
with “RCM Racing 2016” in gold on the back, and the logos of their sponsors on
the front and arms.
“Here we go,” Katherine
said as she and Bev brought out the trays, both also wearing their
coveralls. Unlike those of the pit crew,
the neckline of theirs was more open, as Bev put the sandwiches down and
Katherine handed round the bacon sandwiches.
“The perfect start to a
good day,” Henri said with a smile. “So,
we eat, and the others should be arriving soon.
Gentlemen, enjoy the feast, and then preliminary checks.”
11 am
Eventon, The Hanging Tree
“That looks wonderful
girls,” Kevin said as he took pictures of Jo and Caroline, standing under the
tree as they looked into the camera.
“Hey – how are you
feeling this morning?”
John turned round to
see Christine standing there, wearing a green gillet over her jumper and jeans.
“Oh – hi Kit,” he said
quietly, “I...”
“Honestly, John, how
are you feeling?”
“Embarrassed, and my
head still throbs – but Eve and Jo told me what you did last night. Thanks.”
As she smiled, Kit took
his hand and said “I would not anyone to hurt you – you know that don’t you?”
“I guess I do now,”
John said. “Kit, did I make a complete
arse of myself last night.”
“Well...”
“Be honest.”
“Yes – but I don’t
mind. Look – let’s go and have a drink.”
As they walked to the
side, Eve smiled – and then frowned as she saw Arabella approaching. She was about to walk over when she felt
Caroline’s shoulder on her hand.
“No – let Jo handle
this.”
Eve watched as Jo made
her way over to Arabella, and took her by the arm to the side.
“I want to talk to you
about last night,” she whispered as she looked over the brunette’s shoulder.
“What – I had some fun
with some friends, and...”
“We watched, young lady
– we know exactly what happened, so I’m giving you a choice. Apologise to John and Eve, not just for what
you did to him, but what you did to this place, and you can stay. Or you leave, right now, and stay out of the
way. Your choice.”
Arabella glared at Jo,
before she said, “you may be some high faluting model, but I...”
“Are apologising or
leaving – decide, before I ask Alice over there to call security.”
Arabella looked again
at John talking to Christine, before she said “they deserve each other” and
turned, walking away in a haughty manner.
“I still want my
revenge,” Eve said.
“That is between you
and her,” Caroline said quietly.
7 am
Sebring
“Shower’s free,” Poppy
said as she came into the room.
“Great – who’s next,”
Pippa said as Grace was laying out what she needed.
All the girls turned as
the door was opened, and an unexpected visitor called in.
"Girls - can I
shoot some pictures of you when you are dressed?"
"UNCLE JACK!" Poppy screamed as she grabbed a towel to cover her
chest.
"Oh don't worry
I've photographed you in the nude before Poppy darling."
"Yes - when I was
FIVE MONTHS OLD!"
"OUT JACK," Grace shouted as she pushed the photographer out the
door, closing it as he turned and grinned.
"HOW does he
always manage to walk in while girls are changing?" she said as she shook
her head.
"So how
long?" Jack shouted from outside.
"Give them thirty minutes,"
Pippa shouted back.
“Very well...”
“Who was that,” Sarah
said as she looked out of another room.
“A pest – grab some
breakfast while we look round.”
7.15 am
“Ah there you are,” Clint
said as Sandy, Jan and Antoinette came in.
“I trust the driver briefing went well?”
“It did – I guess we
need to go and get changed,” Jan said as they headed for the Winnebago, Bev
looking out as Katy, Sands and George came over as well.
“This is a ridiculous
hour to get started,” George said as he came in.
“Relax – suits are over
there, and then we need to stock up the fridges and snack areas,” Bev said as
she sipped on her coffee.
7.30 am
The RMC Racing Hospitality Suite
Shirley smiled as she
walked around the tables, and then out of the long windows.
"So when would
Tanera and the catering staff have got here?" John asked Shirley as he
walked over.
"About five this
morning."
"After clearing up
after the cocktail party late last night?"
"Oh yes,"
Shirley nodded as she cast an eye round the hospitality suite.
"I already
checked," Augie spoke from behind her, "Your Tanera hasn't missed a
trick I think."
"Well I still
thought I needed to check..."
"As obviously you
did as well Augie," John laughed.
"And so did
we," Giorgio and Roy said as they emerged from the kitchen.
"Well done
Tanera," Shirley said as she kissed her employee. "You've done a
beautiful job."
"Thank you, and
now if all of you can just relax, the staff and I can finish getting ready and
have our own breakfasts before we start serving."
"Point taken, I'll
drag all the nervous ones away," John laughed lightly.
"THANK YOU, Sir
John, please get them out of our hair." Tanera broke into a large smile as
John ushered the others out.
“Come on – we can join
the others for breakfast ourselves...”
7.50 am
RMC Pits
“Good morning,” Heather
said as Denice came in, fastening the front of her coveralls.
"Well is the
telemetry still working?" Denice asked as she eased into the seat next to
Heather.
"Yeah,” Heather
said as she checked the screen, “whatever that glitch was I fixed it."
"Let's see... Oil pressure, tire pressure, temperature
gauges..."
"Are all-fine, but
please do the double-check," Heather smiled.
"Sorry...was
I?"
"No, not really
Denice,” Heather said, “but I get VERY nervous this close to a race, so pardon
my manners."
"I know
Heather."
"But if you think
I'm nervous wait till you see Tonia," Heather’s smile became a laugh,
"I swear she has a dozen lucky charms on her."
"I heard that
Heather,” Tonia said into the headset, “and I'm not nervous just a trifle
superstitious."
“Weather check please
Tonia,” Henri said as he walked over.
“Dry, slightly overcast
at the moment. The sky should clear by
race start, but we have continuous weather reports up here.”
“Very well then – Antoinette,
let’s start the warmup session...”
1 pm GMT
“This I need,” Jo said
as she bit into a sandwich. “Where did
Ama and Nikki go today?”
“Aileen and Clodagh
offered to show them round the hall, so they stayed there,” Eve said as John
and Christine came over, holding hands.
“Well now – have we finally talked things over?”
“We have,” John said
with a shy smile, “and I know now I was wrong to think Arabella was the one for
me. I think I need a friend as well as a
girl to go out with.”
“Quite right,” Jo said
with a smile. “A friend will always be
there for you.”
“Well, he sees that
now,” Kit said as she kissed him on the cheek.
“Now, how about you get me a drink?”
As John went off, Kit
said “right – how do we get back at her?”
“I’ll talk to you
later...”
8 am
Sebring
"I never thought
I'd ever have Aunt Grace doing my hair, and Abigail de Ros do my makeup,"
Poppy said as she stared at the mirror in the room they had turned into an
impromptu dressing room.
"Well just sit
still and I can get this perfect," Abby crouched down so she could check
as she applied mascara.
"How do I
look?" Pepsi asked as she pirouetted on the tall stilettos, a vision of business-like
sexiness in her deep red suit and white blouse, her hair up, the faux nerd
glasses, and the Taylor Swift red lips.
"You look
dolls." Becca smiled as she slipped her own shoes on.
"Well I don't
think we look so shabby either," Doc preened herself in her white slip
dress with the matching white high heels they had all bought.
"Just remember a
tip from someone who has done this before," Pippa spoke as she did last
minute checks on the girls, "get off your feet whenever you can, those
5" heels are going to kill you by days end."
"Gotcha."
Sarah nodded. "Well do I look fine as well?"
"You do,"
Abby looked over, "you just need add the Torware sash."
"Where is
Jeannie?" asked Becca.
"Our STAR gets her
own dressing room."
“Oh don’t knock it,”
Abby said, “trust me, she’s going to be working just as hard as you girls
today.”
"So where is
Erica?"
"She's helping
Annie run an impromptu crèche,” Abby said as she stood up, “so various Mummy's
and Daddy's can enjoy themselves today."
"Jess is helping
as well." Poppy added.
"Well I'm sure the
parents will appreciate it."
“Right – jackets on
girls, and let’s head over.”
8.15 am
“So this is the centre
of operations,” Giorgio said as he and Giovanna came into the garage.
“Indeed,” Shirley said
as Sands and Katy walked round collecting plates and coffee cups – Katy with
the top of her suit open, and wearing three inch heel ankle boots. “As you can see, the car is out at the
moment on a warm-up lap – Heather, who is driving just now?”
“Sandy’s out there at
the moment,” Heather said as she looked up.
“Mister Mancini, welcome to the hub of RCM Racing.”
“So how are the tasks
divided,” Giovanna said as she watched Janine coming in from the pit wall.
“Well, Henri is team
chief, and Clint is our chief mechanic along with Rob and Alan over there. Katherine, Jan’s mother, owns the Winnebago,
and with the help of Sands, George and Katy, as well as Bev today, keeps us fed
and watered. Denice and I provide the
technical knowhow, while Roy’s wife Tonia is our spotter.”
“Jan, nicely taken on
the hairpin,” Denice said as the printer started, “I think you’ve got the hang
of it now.”
“For the moment, yes,”
Jan said over the headset, “but later?”
“Faith, Jan – you are
doing well,” Sandy said as she came over.
“Giorgio – I’m glad you could both come down.”
“It’s amazing how you
all mesh as a team,” Giorgio said, “and look so wonderful doing it.”
“Heather, got the
latest set of results,” Janine asked as she came over.
"And are you a
model too?" Giorgio asked Janine.
"No,” Janine said
with a smile, “I'm Juliette Huntingdown's PA, and I date Henri Marais."
"Well the prince
is a lucky man," Giovanna smiled.
"I always try and
look good when I'm in the pits, and I help out fetching and carrying."
"It was why we
sent Janine a gift," Pietro, Giorgio's assistant, spoke.
"Ah!"
"And yes I need to
thank you so much for that."
"Janine I need
those printouts from Heather..."
"Coming Henri...My
master calls so I had better run," Janine smiled, "it is so nice to
meet you."
“And you,” Giorgio said
as the car came in.
“Well, I think it is
best if we leave them to it now – Tanera has arranged a live link to the garage
as well as the race in our room.”
8.45 am
“Well, this is the calm
before the storm, right?” Sarah said as she adjusted her sash.
“Oh yes – the first
people should arrive soon, and then we start to work,” Doc said as she looked
at Poppy.
Across the room, Pepsi
and Becca were talking to Susan and Penny.
“It’s fairly simple –
make sure all the guests get an information pack each, and if they want more
details send them towards me or Penny. You
are the representatives of both companies here today, so make us proud.”
“Got it boss,” Becca
said with a smile, as Jeannie was wheeled in by House and Barbara. The young model was wearing a pale blue
jacket and skirt, with a white camisole underneath.
“Well, I see I have
tough competition today,” she said as she looked at the others.
“Hey – we’re a team,
right?”
“RIGHT!”
“Besides,” Susan said,
“all the people you represent are here to represent the sponsors, so do us all
proud.”
9.15 am
The RMC garage
“Look girls,” Jeanne
said as she say with the three drivers, we are not really here to win anything,
but to prove to ourselves that we have what it takes to finish a race like this
without disgracing ourselves.”
"That means that
above all we are here to enjoy ourselves and just see how good drivers we
really are." Sandy spoke.
"So no suicidal
moves, listen to Papa, and basically just see how it develops."
"Agreed
Jeanne," Janice nodded.
"We get to about
the 10 hour mark, and we are still running, maybe then we see what we can
win?" Toni smiled.
"Okay, but just
remember finishing is our first goal, an awful lot of teams won't
remember." Jeanne put her hand out. "Now..."
"GO TEAM!"
all four women touched hands and called out.
“All right Jeanne
darling – time you weren’t here,” Henri said as a grey haired man came in. “Derek – what brings you here?”
"Henri,” the new
arrival said as they embraced, “do you mind if I wish your team the best of
luck?"
"Not at all Derek,
it's so nice to see you again."
"Well I don't always get to the States as often as I should. But the UK channel asked me, and here I am."
"Girls,” Henri
said as they walked over, “this is Derek Bell, a very dear old friend."
"Well I know
Jeanne and Toni of course," he shook his head, "Jeanne love, you look
as though motherhood will totally agree with you."
"Thank you
Derek," she blushed as he kissed her.
"This is Sandy
Richmond, and Jan Carter Derek."
"Nice to meet you
both, the Englishman shook her hands, I have heard you were very impressive in
winning your regional title last year."
“Well, we did our best
– but this is so different...”
“Like I heard you say –
just enjoy the day.”
“All right girls,”
Henri said, “Antoinette, last checks before you get in...
2.30 pm GMT
Eventon
“I don’t know – we’re
missing something for this last set of shots,” Kevin said as he looked at the
two models.
“I agree – but what?”
As they both looked round,
they saw Will standing next to Mandy – and both started to smile. Will looked over and said “what?”
"Can Will pose in
the photos with the girls?" Kevin asked. "I think this would be a
better composition with a man added."
"I can see your
point," Alice mused.
"Darling,” Mandy
drawled with a smile, “that is your cue..."
"But Mandy you
know I've always HATED modeling myself...That is YOUR gig, me PIG
FARMER!...REMEMBER?"
"It's only for
this setup, and all you need add is the Hebridean sweater to what you have on
Will." Alice looked him over, “otherwise the cap, the brown corduroy
trousers and the boots look perfect."
"They do actually
darling,” Mandy said as she looked at her husband.
"Why did I ever
start hanging round with models?" Will shook his head as they quickly
applied a tiny bit of makeup.
"Because like me
you fell in love with one Will," Tom smiled.
“Oh yeah – that’s
why. Okay, but make it quick – I have
three sons who are going to mock me like crazy over this...”
10 am
Sebring – the RMC Hospitality suite
“Come and play,”
Jennifer said as she took Judith by the hand, leading her over to where some
play bricks had been laid out. One or
two other toddlers were there, while some of the slightly older children
watched a DVD.
“Well, so far so good,”
Erica said as she and Jess were taking drinks round, smiling as the door
opened.
“Hey – can you take a
new born for a couple of hours?”
“Frieda! How are you?”
“Not too bed,” the
German said as she and Pussy brought in a baby basket. “Everything was in New York, so we had to buy
this yesterday.”
“Is this your baby,”
Judith asked as she came over to have a look.
“Yes – this is little
Pauline,” Pussy said, “but she is very tired, so let her sleep with Annie, all
right?”
“We’ll come and find
you if she wakes up,” Erica said with a smile as Pauline wriggled about. “You go next door – I think the race will
start soon.”
As Pussy and Frieda
came into the room, Shirley saw them and started to applaud, the other people
in there joining in as Frieda blushed.
“Welcome,” Tanera said
as she handed them each a gift pack, “breakfast is being served over there, and
feel free to have as much food and drink as you like.”
“Come over here,” Gus
said as he took their arms and directed them to the table where the families
were sitting.
10.20 am
Sebring
Antoinette brought the
car to a stop in the grid position, Clint going over and making a last check.
“All good folks,” he
said as he stood back.
"Please stop what
you are doing team," Henri spoke into his mike, "and join me in
prayer.
“Notre Père qui es aux
Cieux,
Que Ton nom soit
sanctifié,
Que Ton règne vienne,
Que Ta volonté soit
faite,
sur la Terre comme au
Ciel.
Donne-nous aujourd'hui
notre pain de ce jour,
Pardonne-nous nos
offenses,
comme nous pardonnons à
ceux qui nous ont offensés.
Et ne nous soumets pas
à la tentation,
Mais délivre-nous du
Mal.
Car c'est à Toi
qu'appartiennent
le règne, la puissance
et la gloire
pour les siècles des
siècles.”
"Amen"
everyone whispered at the end.
“Okay – let us count
down the start.”
“And the cars move off
on the warm-up lap,” the announcer said as the three groups of cars went off –
the prototypes first, then a minute later the Prototype Challenge, the GT Le
Mans class, and then the Daytona GT, Antoinette moving off with them.
“Telemetry good,”
Heather said into her microphone as Katy, Bev, Sands and George came out to the
pit wall, standing by Henri and Janine.
“Once the lead car
passes the pits again,” Shirley said into the microphone n the hospitality,
“each group of cars gets the green flag, and the race is on.”
The people watched the
screen, as Tonia said “all good...”
“And the Prototype are
approaching the pit lane... The lead car
peels off... And we ARE GO!”
“And the race is
underway,” Shirley said. “Here come the
Prototype Challenge...”
The second phalanx of
cars sped up and passed the green flag, followed by the Le Mans class, as
Shirley said “and finally, the Daytona GT class – remember, RCM Racing are
number 59 today.”
The room watched the
screen as the last group went past the green flag.
“And we are go, we are
go,” Denice said, “nice steady start Toni.”
“Remember the plan Toni
– keep position for the first two laps, and we see what happens after that?”
“Roger that,” Toni said
as the youngsters came in.
“You have two Mommies?”
one of the little girls asked Judith.
“Yes,” Judith said, “Momma
Annie, and Momma Rina.”
“Well I have two
Daddy’s,” another little girl spoke, “but one doesn’t live with us.”
“Where do you live?”
Annie smiled from where
she sat listening as Judith rattled off both her New Haven and New York
addresses, just like they had taught her.
“We live in
Philadelphia,” a little boy spoke, “My Daddy’s work there.”
“You have two daddy’s?”
“Where does your Mommy live?”
“I don’t have a Mommy,
My Daddy says that is because they are gay.”
“Oh…” Judith knitted
her brow as she tried to understand.
“Children…who wants
more drinks?” Annie felt it better to intervene then let that topic continue.
“We are having a princess
party for my birthday,” a little girl told Judith as they sat on the floor.
“Well I’m a real
princess.” Judith smiled.
“You are not…”
“Ouch,” Annie
distracted the girls, that topic was no better at the moment.
“Right then,” Jess
said, “who wants to have a sing-song?”
“Thank you,” Annie
whispered as she gathered the children around herself.
"Well hopefully we
quickly settle into a routine," Heather spoke to Denice as Tonia came on
the phones.
"Let him go by Toni."
"Roger that
Tonia."
"Yeah he's taking
risks already, give him PLENTY of room."
"Roger."
"So we settle into the middle of the pack in our class, and just see what
happens?"
"That's the best
we can do Denice, we've never raced a 12 hour event so we will learn a lot
about ourselves I suspect." Heather nodded.
“Good tactics – we had
a good few first laps,” Henri said quietly.
“David! You’re late?”
“I know and I’m sorry –
the flight was delayed,” David McIlroy said as he and a small group came
in. As he kissed Nessa, he said, “so
what have we missed?”
Deborah Winters smiled
as she accepted the gift bag, and then looked round. “I see all the sponsors are here?”
“Oh yes – come and have
some brunch, and then you can have a wander round...”
"So you are both a
model and a student Anna?" a female executive from Lerrabella asked.
"Have you done anything I might have seen?"
"Well maybe my
feet if you shop in Saks," Anna smiled.
"Your feet?"
"Yes in running
shoes,” Anna said, “that's one of the few things I've posed for so far that is
out there."
"Ah I
understand," the woman laughed, "well young models take whatever work
you can get I suspect."
"We do." Anna
smiled again.
"I've always liked
the quality of Torware products,” she said as she looked at the brochure, “but
aren't they a little pricey?"
"Well it depends
how you view it I suppose,” Anna said, “but they are outstanding designs made
to the highest standards, so you will end up using them for a very long
time."
"That is
true," the woman looked thoughtful as she moved away.
"Well done
Doc," Blair joined her, "that was perfect."
“Happy to help...”
“Shirley, may I bend
your ear for a moment?”
“Of course,” Shirley
said as she saw Susan approach with a tall well-dressed man.
"Anderson, can I
introduce my boss Shirley Xavier?
Shirley, this is Anderson Lowe."
"Of course,"
the tall bald headed man said as he kissed Madame's hand. "Can I in return
thank you both for the invitation."
"Well, Susan had heard
that you enjoy sports events."
"I do...and I do
enjoy watching people who want my business try to impress me."
"Now what makes
you think we wish to impress you?" Shirley said as she handed him a drink.
"Well,” Anderson
said, “I am guessing like every other major art insurance company you have
heard of my intention to house my things in a gallery open to the public."
"Yes of course we
have, but it's not the sole reason to invite you," Shirley shook her
auburn hair and smiled a dazzling smile, "you are of course an old friend
of John Hammond my partner aren't you?"
"We do know each
other yes."
"And you know the
Razinski's and van Roon's of course."
"Yes I do,"
despite himself the art collector let a little smile escape his lips.
"So yes whilst we
might like your business some day, at least for today I hope you'll view this
just as a day to enjoy yourself?"
"Put that way
Shirley, I just think I might."
“Excellent – please,
try some more of the food,” Shirley said as she looked round the room.
“Alan – I wonder if I
would see you here.”
“Hello David,” Alan
Kennedy said as he greeted his friend, “you were invited as well?”
“A shrewd move on the
part of Miss Xavier I think.”
“Today is about family
and fun, not business David,” Alan said as Sharon walked over. “I checked the others – they’re happy in the
next room Dad.”
“Good – Sharon, this is
David McIlroy of AMININCO. David, my
daughter Sharon.”
“Of course – I remember
you from the ball. My assistant, Deborah
Winters.”
“Pleasure,” Deborah
said as she shook Sharon’s hand, Sharon smiling as she looked forward to
meeting her again.
“Look at her eyes, the
way she is looking Miss Winters up and down,” Carina said quietly as she,
Juliette and Diana watched. “What do you
both think?”
"Who was it said
she saw something in Sharon the way she whipped her step-mother that
time?" Juliette whispered to Carina and Diana. "Because if Doc is
right, and I think she is, then we have a big decision to make again."
"Well I like
Sharon personally."
"I know you do
Carina dearest, but can we really accommodate her within our group?" Diana
asked.
"On the other
hand, I could go Beast on her...friend or not."
"No that shouldn't
be necessary." Juliette looked across the large room. “I wonder if we need to take another approach
– let me talk to Shirley...”
5.30 pm GMT
Lardarn House
"So how are they
running?" Caroline asked as she put her head round the door of the TV
room.
"They are 38th
overall," Nikki said as she looked away from the screen for a moment.
"That's not
terribly good...Is it?" Aileen asked as she came in with snacks.
"Actually it's
slightly better than they hoped." Caroline sat down, "It puts them
about halfway in their class, which when I spoke to Sandy she said they would
consider a success."
"It's not how you
are doing overall that matters so much in this," Tom spoke, "It's all
about how you are doing in your class of car."
"Their car it's like my little old Fiat, trying to race Dad's BMW,"
John spoke, "the Prototype cars go considerably faster."
"Well I learn
something each day."
"So do I
Aileen." Ama reached for a can of fizz. "Racing cars isn't really my
thing."
"Well tomorrow we
can go watch soccer if you like Ama," John offered, "Athletic are
playing Finn Harps tomorrow in a cup match, it's both a local derby and rather
a grudge match."
"Sounds
good." Ama looked thrilled.
"Yes, it's a One O’clock
kick-off."
"I think I'll join
you for that," Will spoke.
"St Brigid's
Athletic are our team in Eventon." Tom spoke. "We are a division below
the Harps, so everyone here sees this as a chance to humble them a bit."
"I support the Red
Bulls in New York," Ama said, "our big rivalry is with New York
City."
"As ours is with
Sheffield United..." Will started.
"And next time you
and Sean get to arguing about it I swear I will desert you both darling."
Mandy looked heavenwards.
"Is that Sean Bean
you are talking about?" asked Eve.
"It is
darling."
"Sean will just
not see he supports the wrong club." Will laughed.
“Hang on,” Nikki said,
“red flags are out.”
“What happened?”
“It’s raining –
heavily.”
1 pm
Sebring Hospitality Suite
“How is it going
Susan?" Shirley asked.
"VERY WELL. Despite the race stopping, everyone is
enjoying themselves, and it’s going like clockwork."
"Oh?"
"The girls are
doing a first rate job, and I have already tentatively booked at least three
visits for Caroline to do security inspections with a view to us giving a
quote, and Penny I think has a couple."
"Well that is
good, but don't push too hard."
"We aren't."
Susan smiled.
"So how are our
political friends enjoying themselves?"
"According to
Pepsi the Senator has wandering hands and eyes, but the three congressmen all
seem to be really nice."
"Yes I had thought
that," Shirley paused, "do you think I should tell the Senator how
young she is?"
"No I think Pepsi
can deal with an old goat like him in her sleep."
“I need a rest,” Sarah
said as she sat down with Becca.
“Me too – Jeannie
doesn’t know how lucky she is in her chair.”
“Grace was right about these
heels,” Sarah said as she massaged her feet, and looked at H talking to Chet
and Stephen.
“Hey there you two,”
Chet said as she came over, “you’re both doing a great job.”
“Thanks,” Sarah said as
H kissed her.
“Well, at least we came
off in a good position,” Clint said as they looked at the rain lashing down on
the pit lane.
“Hey Angel – have you
seen the latest photos from Ireland,” Abby said as her friend came in.
“Nope – what can you
show me?”
“I think you’ll like
this one,” Abby said with a smile as she showed Angel one particular picture.
“What the... How did they persuade Dad to do that? And do my brothers know yet?”
“No idea, and no idea.”
“What are you... OH my
goodness, is that your dad Angel,” Pepsi said as she looked over their
shoulders.
“Yup – I wonder how he
managed to get pulled into this?”
“Can I tell Jack?”
“Oh no – this is my
joy...”
"So how is it
going my love?" Carina looked in at the children.
"I'm having to
have eyes in the back of my head, and listen to every conversation."
"Oh?"
"Yes Cari, don't
let anyone EVER tell you children aren't aware of what their parents do."
"Poor you,"
Carina hugged Annie.
"Well at least the
girls are helping - Erica has most of them listening to her read at the moment.”
“Good – we’ll bring
some food in in a little while, and we have a special surprise for them...”
“OF course Xavier
International would be able to answer your needs,” Pepsi said, “if you give me
your business card, I’ll pass it on to one of the directors.”
“Not as easy as it
looks, is it,” Jeannie said as Pepsi turned round.
“Tell me about it –
break?”
“Break.”
The two girls made
their way over to where the lunch buffet was laid out, Jeannie balancing a
plate on her lap as they took some of the sandwiches and nibbles, and then
found a table.
“I believe you will
appreciate these,” House said as he brought two drinks over. “Your mother is talking to some of the Lerrabella
people.”
“House, you are a
marvel,” Pepsi said as she sipped her drink.
“So, morning down, afternoon and night to go – how do you cope?”
“Same way I cope when
on a shoot – coffee and patience,” Jeannie said with a smile.
“So looking forward to
tomorrow?”
“Oh yes – Shirley has
promised this place will be cleared out, but Mum and Granddad are telling me
nothing. Have you heard anything?”
“If I had,” Pepsi said
with a smile, “would I tell you?”
“Probably not...”
“Ladies and Gentlemen,
the support crew for RCM Racing have come in for a visit.”
“Well, given the race
is suspended, we got the chance to come up,” Katherine said as George, Sands,
Katy and Bev went to talk to the others.
“How are things
downstairs,” Pepsi asked.
“Hectic – but fun,”
Katy said as she took a soft drink.
As she talked with the
others, Juliette walked over and joined Shirley
“We have a gatecrasher
in the room Shirley.” Juliette whispered in her friends’ ear.
“Do we?” Shirley
glanced round, “how the hell did he or she slip in?”
“I don’t know, I
thought our security was tight, but it’s definitely a he, I keep catching
glances out of the corner of my eye of someone who is just dressed all wrong.”
“Are sure you aren’t
seeing ghosts again?”
“Yes,” Juliette said
quietly, “I think this is Katy’s stalker, and whoever he is he at least knows
that keeping on the move is the best way not to be spotted in a crowded room.”
“So how do you know
it’s an outsider Ju darling?”
“Well first I don’t
know the face, and I certainly already knew at least by sight everyone who was
invited, but most importantly he looks wrong…”
“There is a right way
to look at a function like this?”
“Shirley don’t be
naïve,” Juliette said, “you know very well there is.”
“Alright, well let’s
consult with the best pair of eyes in the room…Jack do you have a moment?”
“For you
Shirley…Always.”
“Juliette thinks we
have a gatecrasher who might be Katy’s stalker. Have you seen anybody who
doesn’t belong?”
“Other then a certain
over-sexed Senator?”
“Yes other than him.”
Shirley half-laughed.
“Well there is one man,
and he’s dressed all wrong for an occasion like this…”
“That is him,” Juliette
interrupted.
“How wrong?” Shirley
asked.
“Jeans and an event T
shirt, I’d assumed maybe he was either staff that had wandered where he
shouldn’t be, or security.”
“Did you get a picture
Jack?”
“No,” Jack said as he
shook his head, “he wasn’t in your brief Ju darling, and he wasn’t good-looking
enough to personally interest me.”
“Well if you do see him
again PLEASE snap away, we really do need find out who this menace is.”
“Certainly boss,” Jack
grinned as he started circulating again.
“You are wrong David
darling,” Nessa shook her head, “fashion as I was taught it died in the mid
sixties.”
“And I say that is just
pure snobbery,” her partner replied with an amused look on his face.
“Paulie back me up please,”
Nessa said as the rain fell, “didn’t the rot set in with the growth of the
celebrity culture in the mid sixties?”
“Oh you and I have
argued this too often for me to get involved,” Paulie laughed lightly, “and
don’t bully poor David on this issue Nessa Richmond.”
“Would I bully anyone?”
“Oh, as if you need to
ask Gran?” Sands giggled.
“Look all I’m saying is
that with the coming of popular youth culture driven by the media and
celebrities, TRUE fashion died.”
“What you mean is that
fashion that was tailored to the tastes of upper-class women such as yourself
died out Nessa,” David spoke again, “fashion simply became more democratic, and
the snob in you hates that fact.”
“David I am not a snob,
and I’m simply saying is that when women beyond their youth started following
trends created by the young, then fashion as such stopped.”
“I’ll bite and ask for
an explanation Mrs Richmond,” Sharon spoke for the first time.
“Look all I’m saying is
that before the mid sixties you can very closely date any image by the clothes
and hair of women in any image. But that now I can show you two pictures of
girls in shirts and jeans, separated by a space of 50 years, and you tell me
which one is from the sixties and which one is 2016.”
“But I can tell a lot
of other era’s from women’s clothing darling?” David looked studious, “just
think of the huge padded shoulders of the early 80’s…think of things worn by
the likes of Madonna…”
“All of which have been
repeated so often that even an expert like Juliette I bet has trouble
differentiating.”
“Hey don’t bring me
into this argument. Juliette smiled. “I simply want a word with Katy.”
“Oh is something
wrong?” Katy asked.
“Let’s go and talk over
here,” Juliette said as Bev glanced round, and then walked slowly over to where
George was standing with Diana.
“George, a word
please,” she said quietly.
“Of course – forgive me
Diana,” George said as they slipped off.
“The stalker – he’s in
the room. He keeps moving out of sight,
but I saw him yesterday and again last night.”
George looked round,
and said, “all right Lass – let me look as well.”
“My view, as I have
always said, is that most of our little group fall outside the conventional 5
class structure.” Winston spoke softly, “from what I have learned at Stanford
most Saints and Sinners belong to what some sociologists have dubbed X class.”
“Which is what?”
Barbara asked.
“Artistic,
intellectual, and other so-called creative types who defy categorization in
what others consider ‘normal’ terms.”
“So what you are saying
is that I’m no longer working class?”
“Precisely Barbara,
because of your involvement with Jeannie’s career your tastes and attitudes
have shifted.”
“He has you there
love.” John smiled.
“Well you are the same
John, you freely mingle now with people you would have once deferred to…”
“And he has YOU there
Dad,” Barbara laughed.
“Alright if we accept
that argument, and I’m not saying I do, am I X class as well?” Ally Rochermann
asked.
“No,” Winston smiled,
“definitely still upper class, but the classlessness of X allows you to
befriend them.”
“And politicians like
Tom Morse?” asked Nell.
“Upper middle class,
but married into the Jewish upper class, and trying very hard to appear as a
man of the people.”
“He has to appear to be
democratic?” Ally asked.
“Yes, but again the
classlessness of so-many of us makes it far easier to befriend them.”
“I’ve been learning
some of this at Harvard, but I’m still not…”
“Just think closely
about all our friends Ally,” House interrupted, “and at least to me it makes
sense.”
“And I always thought
America thought of itself as classless.”
“Oh give me a break
John,” Winston grinned, “you dig and we are just as preoccupied with class as
you Brits.”
“Andy, Dawn – are you
both having fun in here?”
“Yeah, Sis,” Andy
Kennedy said as he looked over. “This is
Jess – her dad is a broker in the city as well.”
“You most be Juan Merchado’s
daughter – it’s a pleasure to meet you,” Sharon said as she looked over. “I hope they’re behaving themselves.”
“Oh they’re fine – Dawn
is helping with some of the older toddlers as well. Annie is in charge really, not us.”
“Well, thank you as
well,” Sharon said as she looked at Annie, and smiled at Carina.
“Well, it keeps me busy
– Erica, Jess, let’s get the kids into a line and we can take them through to
get some lunch.”
7.30 pm GMT
Lardarn House
“So I presume you are
happy,” Caroline said as they sat at the dining table.
“Very much so, I think
this has been a great shoot,” Alice said as she looked over. “A rest day tomorrow, and then the late
flight back to New York.”
“Well, some football
ends the holiday on a high,” Ama said with a smile.
“Excuse me a minute,”
Eve said as her cell phone went off.
“Eve, you know the
rules...”
“I know – sorry Dad,”
she said as she slipped out.
“Hey Kit – what’s up?
“Oh has she now? Are you planning on going?
“Yeah, I’ll be there –
nine o’clock. See you then.”
“Something up,” John
said as Eve came back in.
“No – I need to run
into town later Mum. I shouldn’t be
long.”
“Oh, where are you
going?”
“I need to take
something down to the church for tomorrow – I won’t be long.”
Jo looked at Eve as she
said that, reading her body pose, her words, the way she was sweating lightly,
and she knew one thing.
Eve was lying about
something.
"So thinking of
church do you...?" Caroline's voice trailed off.
"Not as often as
we should," Tom smiled a little, "We are Church of Ireland of course,
and St Brigid's in town is our parish church, but I rarely go to
services."
"I take the
children occasionally," Paula added, "but we will be here for Easter,
and we do go on days like that."
"So you have never
reverted to Catholicism?" Ama asked.
"My daughter was
recently received into the Roman Catholic church," Caroline explained.
"No," Tom
smiled again, "young Kit is the senior Roman Catholic Gaunt."
"If you want to go
to Mass in the morning Ama, I can arrange for Paddy to drive you?" Paula
spoke.
"Well if it's not
too much trouble."
"Not at all,"
Paula answered.
Jo watched Eve
carefully.
“Are you allowed to
drive a car Eve?”
“Well... Technically not until I’m seventeen, but I
learned on the estate, and the local Garda know me.”
"Tell me about the
soccer ground John?" Ama asked.
"Well it hardly
compares to the Bernabeu," John laughed, "pack it to the rafters you
can get about four and a half thousand people into Clamman Park, and most of
them are standing on a grassy bank."
"It
sounds...intimate..." Nikki ventured.
"That it is,” John
said, “the Athletic only average three or four hundred fans for league games,
but for the derby games with Harps it can get quite full..."
"And rather
noisy," Tom chuckled slightly.
"Well local pride
is at stake, what do you expect," Will looked away from what he was
reading.
"Their fans
travel, just as ours crowd into Ballybofey when we play them there." John
spoke again.
"Well it sounds
fun." Ama concluded. "Mass and soccer, is there a better way to spend
Sunday?"
"Just remember
that long flight home young lady," Caroline reminded her daughter.
“Of course Mom!”
“Right – I’ll just run
that stuff down to the church,” Eve said as she walked off.
“Caroline, a word,” Jo
whispered as she took her friend into the kitchen.
“What’s up?”
“I think Eve and Kit
may be thinking of doing something stupid – can you borrow a car so that we can
follow them?”
"What colours do
your team wear John?" Ama asked, "and can I buy a scarf and a replica
shirt tomorrow?"
"The answer to the
last question is yes," John smiled, "and our colour is St Patrick's
blue shirts and white shorts."
"What is St
Patrick's blue?" Nikki asked.
"Well it is a
dark, light blue, and slightly metallic looking..."
"How can it be a
dark LIGHT blue?"
"I know it sounds
odd...John paused, "wait till I get my scarf."
The girls waited two
minutes till he returned.
"See?"
"Oh I get
it," Ama looked closely, it's darker then Manchester City's blue, but
lighter then say a royal blue?"
"Exactly."
2.30 pm
Sebring
“Anderson – come and
join us for lunch...”
"Well you are
clearly doing something right," Nessa Richmond spoke to Shirley, "I
haven't seen Anderson so happy away from his beloved art in years."
"Well I think we
laid down some good ground rules,” Shirley said, “he knows we want his
business, but I also told him that was something to talk about another
day."
"Ah the ultra-soft sell...well thought out Shirley."
"Well I wish I
could claim credit, but it's largely Susan's work."
"You are lucky to
have a woman of her talents you know."
"Indeed, I am very
lucky to have her."
"Talking of talent,”
Nessa said, “I must say that Tanera is excellent as well"
"Isn't she just? We were lucky again that Susan found her."
"I will need to
consider if I should borrow her when I organize events."
"Oh like YOU need
help in that regard Nessa." Shirley smiled.
“Well good afternoon
ladies.”
“David,” Nessa said as
she kissed him, “I hope you and your colleagues are enjoying the race so far?”
“Oh we are – and I
wanted to thank you for inviting us Miss Xavier. I must say, it came as a bit of a surprise.”
“Well, we may be in a
bit of a heated business discussion right now,” Shirley said with a smile, “but
this is a day for enjoyment – and besides, Xavier International are not the
only sponsors of RCM Racing.”
“Indeed – may I ask
where Caroline Jameson is today?”
“She’s in Ireland –
combining a modelling shoot with advising the Earl of Lardarn on security for
his town and country homes. She may be a
director of our company, but she is first and foremost a security expert, after
all.”
“Very true – would you
object if I took Nessa to get some lunch?”
“Of course not,”
Shirley said with a smile as the couple came over, and Susan joined her.
“Nicely handled – I
know he wants to talk business, but not here.”
“Indeed – although I
would like to see what Alan is going to talk to him about...”
2.45 pm
“We got the word –
re-start in five minutes. Jan, strap
in.”
“And here we go again,”
Jan said with a smile as she got into the seat, and then drove off.
“Well, at least we had
the opportunity to re-tune and make everything good,” Henri said.
“We’re working on
slicks – watch the temperature gauge,” Heather said as she looked at
Denice. “Tonia – weather report?”
“No more rain expected
today – but it’s going to be cool for a while, so the track may take a while to
dry out.”
“And that’s the green
flag,” Clint said, “we’re back in business...”
3.30 pm
“Jan heads up – number
10 has spun off. “
“Where?”
“On Collier Curve –
approach with caution, traffic slowing.”
“Copy that,” Jan said
as Henri looked over.
“One of the better
places for an accident – tyre wear?”
“Getting to the edge,”
Denice said, “Temperature on left rear a little high.”
“Noted – will advise if
any slippage.”
“George, we need some
more snacks out here.”
“On it,” George said,
but as he went to the Winnebago Katy pulled him to one side and kissed him.
“Wow – what was that
for?”
“For being you – now
get the men their snacks.”
“Well, she’s still not
backward about coming forward,” Bev said as she and Sands shook their heads.
9.30 pm GMT
Eventon
“Okay,” Caroline said
as she and Jo sat in Tom’s SUV, “so let’s recap. Sitting on the other side of the road from us
are Eve Gaunt and Christine Mahan-Gaunt, two very angry young women.”
“Indeed – both were
upset at the way John was treated last night,” Jo said, “and they have the
Gaunt blood in both of them.”
“And you are worried
that they may go and do something stupid?”
“No – I’m afraid they
may go and do something incredibly clever – there’s young Miss Sutton now.”
Caroline looked over as
Arabella came out from a bar, smiling as she waved to two men and then walked
towards the two cars.
“So what do you think
they’re planning?”
“Let’s see,” Jo said
quietly, “two Irish boarding school girls want revenge on a third one. I think they’ll pull the classic hood
surprise.”
“The grab and
snatch? That was old when I saw it in
some comics my mum – oh good grief!”
As they watched, Kit
got out of the car and threw an old potato sack over Arabella’s head from
behind, before she pushed her into the back of the car and Eve drove off.
“Oh great,” Caroline
said as she started the car, “let’s hope they don’t do anything stupid.”
“I guarantee they
will,” Jo said, “so let’s make sure there are no unintended consequences.”
“Dammit,” Jo said, “I should
have realised they’d bring her here.”
“The Hanging Tree? Is this where...”
“Oh yes – and look.”
They could see three
figures walking up the hill, but it was clear one of them had her hands pinned
behind her back.
“What do you want to
do?”
“What I did last night –
up this way.”
“Who the fuck are you,”
Arabella called out as Kit forced her to stand with her back to the tree, while
Eve used rope to lash her to the trunk.
“I said, who the fuck
are...”
Kit and Eve looked at
each other, before Kit secured her ankles together, and then they both pulled
balaclavas down over their heads.
“Okay, they got her
lashed to the tree,” Jo said quietly as she and Caroline watched from the other
side, “now if they do what I think they’re going to do...”
As the hood was pulled
off her eyes, Arabella blinked and looked at the two masked figures in front of
her.
“Let me guess –
disgruntled girlfriends? When I get free
frommmmmhhhtthsss.”
“Sticking plaster,” Kit
said in a disguised Irish voice as she pressed the brown fabric over Arabella’s
mouth, “you stay nice and quiet while we go about our business.”
“You hurt our men,” Eve
said in a deeper voice than usual, also affecting an Irish accent, “so we get
to hurt you back.”
“Uhhffngtthgts.”
“Actually,” Kit said as
she opened a plastic bag, and took out a clear smaller bag, “we got them fresh
today from the butcher.”
“Oh nasty,” Caroline
whispered as the first bag hit Arabella squarely on the chest, the red entrails
bursting over her. Several more bags
were hurled at her by the two girls, guts, entrails and manure covering
Arabella’s head and chest.
“Lkkkkllufrrthssss!!!”
“No you won’t,” Kit
said quietly, “maybe we should get the hounds out now – or perhaps leave her
for the night.”
“Or we could show her why
the Hanging Tree got its name.”
“Oh lord,” Caroline
whispered as she started to get up - and then she saw Jo’s face. “What is it?”
“Caroline – who is
that?”
“Yeah – maybe we should
leave the slut dangling for...” Eve
stopped as she saw the fear in Arabella’s eyes, and she slowly turned round.
The man looked like an
older version of her father. And he was pale – deathly pale, almost translucent
as he looked at the two girls.
“Now what do we have
here – Eve, you got big. And is that
Christine?”
“Uncle Martin?”
The ghost smiled as he
looked at them. “Come on – take those
bloody stupid masks off.”
As the two girls
removed the balaclavas, Arabella said “URRDDWMNN”
“And who do we have
here? Any particular reason you did
this?”
“She... She’s Arabella Sutton, and she humiliated
John last night.”
“Sutton? Is her mother Lenora Sutton?”
“Yeah – why?”
“Then I am glad John is
Tom’s boy – because it means he has the courage to get over that. When Lenora did it to me...”
“Oh no,” Eve said as she
looked at Arabella, then at her uncle. “Please, don’t tell me...”
“You have had your
revenge, Lady Eve, Kit of the Red Hand – but leave it at that. Life is too short to hold grudges – and too
precious to waste on things like this, or people like this.”
He looked right at
Arabella, who was shaking as she looked at him.
“As for you young lady
– do not make the same mistakes your mother made. Learn from this. Now, you two – go home, and say no more about
this.”
Kit and Eve looked at
each other, before they slowly walked down the hill.
“WHTTBBTMMM?”
“You,” Martin said as
he walked towards her, “consider your sins.”
The two girls heard her
screams as Martin walked through her, and the tree, disappearing into the cold
dark air as both Jo and Caroline watched.
“Should we free her?”
“You know, I think it’s
better she stay there – after I have a word with her.”
Arabella was shaking as
Jo walked up behind her, and said in her Louisiana accent “Well now sugah, you
sure look as if you’ve had an eventful night.”
“Whhssthr?”
“Well, my friends call
me Miss Bobcat, but tonight dahlin you can call me the voice of
conscience. Ah heard what you did to
that poor young man, so ah came to tell you something real truthful like.
“If ah hear anything
coming back to hurt those pretty young ladies, then some friends of mine and I
may come acalling at your house one night, and introduce ourselves. You may have heard of them – we call
ourselves Pussycats sugah.”
Jo smiled as she heard
the trickle of water.
“So, as the man there
said, consider your sins and pray for forgiveness – and forgive those who
trespass against you, as the good book says.
“Because if my friends
and I call, Sugah, you will never need to repent again. Y’all have a nice night.”
Jo slowly backed away,
joining Caroline as Arabella cried out into the night.
4.40 pm
Sebring
“Halfway mark ladies –
Sandy, bring her in and have a rest.
Antoinette, suit up.”
“Got it Henri,”
Antoinette as she fastened the neck of her suit, putting on the driving helmet
and watching as Sandy brought the car into the pits and jumped out.
“As the pit crew
refuelled and changed the seat, Heather heard Tonia say “looks like most other
teams are coming in. Going to get busy.”
“Then it is as well we
changed now,” Sandy said as she removed her helmet, and Antoinette set
off. “Tonia, places lost?”
“Only one, she’s
merging nicely back into the flow.”
“Excellent – thanks
Princess,” Sandy said with a smile as she took a bottle of water from her
daughter.
“Sandy – some chicken
salad in a few minutes?”
“Sounds good
Katherine,” Sandy called back as she looked at the computer screens. “How’s the car holding up lover?”
“So far so good – the
planned stops are doing the job in keeping things well, but the fun is still to
come.”
“Okay guys – have you
enjoyed having me with you this afternoon?”
“YES MISTER JOLLY,” the
kids shouted as the clown grinned.
“Well, may I say you
have been the most well behaved party I have ever, EVER had the pleasure of
leading, and as a big reward, I’m told there is a lovely pizza and pasta tea
waiting for you in the next room. So go,
eat, have fun, and don’t forget to take your presents with you when your
parents come to collect you.”
As the kids ran out,
Annie watched and then turned to the clown.
“Danny I cannot thank
you enough for coming and doing this today.”
“Hey, it’s a pleasure
Annie – and it’s good to see you too, blooming as well.”
“How is the party
entertainment business going anyway? Got
to admit, the last thing I saw you doing when we did Advanced Algebra at Brown
was something like this.”
“Hey, to each their
own. So who’s the lucky guy?”
“Not a guy – you heard
of Carina Huntingdown?”
“The model? Nice one Annie.”
“Yeah – and you?”
“Grant works for the
media centre here. On which note, I need
to clean up, change and meet him.”
“Hey - drop by the RCM
lounge later. I’ll introduce you.”
“Sounds good,” Danny
said as he started to remove the greasepaint, and Annie went through to find
Pussy and Frieda with their baby.
“She needed her feed,”
Frieda said as Pauline sucked on her breast.
“No problem – want
something here or are you going to wait for later.”
“We’ll wait here for a
while – and Orlanda has said she will pop in, so the three of you,” Pussy said
as she looked at Erica and Jess, “go and join the others for a while.”
“Thank you for coming,
enjoy the race,” Pepsi said as she handed out another pack, smiling as Doc
walked over.
"I can't believe
that people are still just arriving," Pepsi whispered to Doc as she came
closer.
"Well there is
still nearly half the race to go yet, so I guess I get their logic," Doc
smiled as another new arrival took a hospitality pack.
"Did you speak to
your Mom?" Pepsi asked Erica as she came back from the toilets.
"I did,” Erica said with a smile, “and she sounds like she's in seventh
heaven down there."
"I'm glad for her. How are they
holding up?"
“They have the super
secret sauce to keep them going.”
“What – Katy open
another button on her suit.”
“Nope – her mother’s infamous
coffee and cake combo.”
“Hey,” Poppy said as
she came over, “Have you seen Blair anywhere?
Giovanna Mancini wants to talk to her about some goods.”
“Her pop’s around here
somewhere,” Doc said, “I’ll find him and send him over.”
“Well, Miss Broadhurst
– may I ask you some more questions?”
Pepsi rolled her eyes
before she turned and said “Senator – how may I help you now...”
"I shouldn't have
invited that old bastard." Tom Morse watched as the Senator made another
attempt to corner Pepsi, "but we need his vote if we are to make
progress on my bill."
"I had a word with
Pepsi, actually she's quite amused having such a famous politician chasing
after her," his wife replied. “I
think she can handle herself.”
"Can you believe that he stands on so-called 'family values' each time he
gets re-elected?" Tom shook his head.
"I'm just glad you
aren't a hypocrite darling." Claire kissed her husband, just as Jack took
a photo.
"Sorry I couldn't
resist," he chuckled, "it has such rarity, a politician actually
kissing his own wife."
"I know," Tom
chuckled back, "and let me have a print of that Jack."
"Will do,"
Jack laughed again as he moved off in search of fresh prey.
“This is a good day,”
Tom said as he watched Becca walking round and talking to the guests, “it’s
just a pity Bobbi couldn’t be here.”
“Exams darling – and
she couldn’t get time off for this and Munich.”
“True – and with Simon
accompanying her there, it could be a very good time.”
6 pm
“Ladies and Gentlemen,”
Susan said into the microphone, “we just want to let you know that the evening
buffet is now available, and the band will start playing for your entertainment
at eight o’clock.”
As she left the stage,
Nessa walked over to where Anderson Lowe was standing.
“Anderson darling – I
feel I’ve neglected you today,” she said as she handed him a glass.
“Not at all Vanessa –
we’re both guests here, and I have to admit it has been a most relaxing and
entertaining day.”
“So you’ve enjoyed
yourself?”
“Very much so – and all
the better that our hostess made it clear she was not prepared to talk business
today.”
“Well, Shirley is a
very considerate and intelligent woman,” Vanessa said as Pepsi and Doc welcomed
some new arrivals.
The man was tall, in
his late fifties, with short blonde hair, wearing a Saville Row suit with a
white shirt underneath. The shoes were
Italian and handmade. Standing with him
was a thin blonde in her late forties, wearing a peach coloured jacket and
pleated knee length skirt, her long hair carefully coiffure and her body
evidence of hard work somewhere.
There were two girls
there as well, both with long blonde hair and stunning figures. The older was wearing a pair of skintight
black leggings and four-inch heel sandals, with a white Grecian style top,
while the younger was wearing a white blazer with dark blue trim, over a blue
shift dress, and black heels.
“HAAKON! My dear chap, it is so good to see you.”
“And you, my dear Roy –
it was good of you to invite us to come tonight.”
“Of course – may I introduce
you to Shirley Xavier, the CEO of Xavier International and my co-sponsor. Shirley, may I introduce you to Haakon
Olaffson, his wife Agnetha, and their daughters, Bente and Tonje.”
“A pleasure,” Shirley
said as Haakon kissed her hand, “so you are the owner of Olaffson
Explorations?”
“I am indeed – and it
is a pleasure to meet a woman of your standing as well Miss Xavier.”
“My partner, Major John
Hammond,” Shirley said as the two men shook hands, “please, help yourself to
food and drink, and feel free to mingle.”
"Now that is a man
I envy Vanessa," Anderson looked as Haakon Olafsson and his party made their
way round.
"Because of his
wife? I can tell you that most of that is due to the skill of her plastic
surgeon..."
"No, "the
bald man interrupted, "I envy him because of those two great paintings by
Edvard Munch he owns."
"Oh those,"
Nessa shook her head, "well from what I heard Anderson dear, he has
turned you down flat each time you have tried to buy them."
"Yes it seems that
there are paintings even my money cannot buy."
“Well, remember the
lesson of Robert the Bruce.”
“Indeed...”
In the garage, Henri
looked out at the slightly darkening sky, and walked over.
“Well?" Henri said
as he looked over the girls’ shoulders.
"Things are
starting to deteriorate just as you said they would Henri," Denice said as
she looked at the temperature readouts.”
"Well keep an eye
open for those indicator levels I told you to watch for Heather."
"Gotcha."
"Did you hear that
Sandy?"
"Roger Henri."
"Start beginning
to nurse her, if we are going to do anything late on, we need get safely past
this phase of the race."
"Watch out Sandy,
crash ahead - #3 and #911 have hit the tyre wall at turn 1," Tonia
shouted.
"Gotcha
Tonia."
"It’s a bad one –
both cars damaged, warning flags out."
"I can see it
Tonia, I'll just be careful going past there till it disperses."
"How does the
weather look from up there Tonia?" Henri asked.
“Still dry, and the
track looks to be drying out, but forecast says air temperature cooling rapidly
over the next hour.”
“Okay – lights should
come on soon. Feel free to switch to
infra red when ready.”
“Copy that Henri.”
"Are you enjoying
yourself Kylie?" Juliette sat down next to where the youngster was
sketching.
"Watching the cars? Well not particularly them darling...but watching all
these people has triggered a few ideas in my brain."
"May I see?"
"Please do
darling." Kylie passed her sketchpad and reached for her drink.
"These are
excellent you know?"
"Well I'm pleased
with them,” Kylie said, “the test though is what Alice thinks."
"Alice or not, I
might just ask Catherine to make this shift dress just for me," Juliette
pointed to a design.
"Well go
ahead."
"What might I be
able to have made?" Catherine joined them.
"This."
Juliette pointed.
“Hmm – very elegant,
and why do I think you may need it for an upcoming trip?”
“Well, I trust to you
to do it, my dear friend.”
“Mamma,” Tonje Olaffson
said with a smile, “I’d like to introduce you to Ally and Nell Rochermann. They are in my house at Harvard. Nell, Ally, this is my mother Agnetha and my
sister Bente.”
“Pleasure to meet you
both,” Ally said as they shook hands.
“Do you know many of
the people here,” Bente asked.
“The vast majority are
personal or family friends,” Ally said.
"In that case, who
is the young girl sitting in the corner with the sketchpad?" Agnetha
Olafsson asked the twins.
"Over there?"
"Yes."
"That's Kylie
Mitchell." Nell smiled.
"Kylie Mitchell...
I know the name from somewhere..."
"Have a glance at the label of your jacket," Ally replied.
"My jacket? Oh
dear God now I understand, she's Kylie Mitchell the designer," the
Norwegian woman looked intently "You know she's far younger than I
expected."
“She’s only just turned
sixteen,” Ally said, “and she’s coming to live in New York and study at my old
school later this year.”
“Wow – to be so young
and so talented...”
“So ready for the end
of year finals, Tonje?”
“I hope so – not much
time left now...”
“Ah you’ll ace them,”
Nell said with a smile.
"Stev Clayton's
Jaguar is on the move Sandy." Tonia spoke.
"I can see him in
my rear mirrors Ton."
"How do you want
to play this?" Henri asked.
"Well he clearly
has newer tires then I do, so I guess I'd better let him past."
"That would be
sensible Sandy," Heather called out, "you are due in in ten
minutes."
"I know, but you
know I'd really like to race him."
"Later,"
Henri called out, "there is still 25% of the race to go, so just be
sensible Sandy."
"Roger that
Henri," Sandy gritted her teeth as the Jag passed her, "next time it
won't be so easy Stev," she whispered to herself.
“Well done – always
remember, this is a marathon Sandy.”
7.45 pm
“Well, we are now into
the last quarter,” Sandy said as she sipped her water, “and it’s dark. At least the track dried out a little.”
“True – but it is
cooling as well,” Henri said. “How are
the tyre temperatures holding up, ladies?”
“So far so good – but
we adjusted the alert levels as per your instructions,” Denice said as Bev
handed her a mug of coffee. “Thanks –
this is just what the doctor ordered.”
“Always glad to
oblige,” she said as Katy collected the other mugs up. Whoever had snuck into the hospitality room
had disappeared once they stated looking for him, and the security in the pits
area was watertight – unless he wanted to cross the race track in full view of
the cameras and the headlights.
“Okay Antoinette,”
Henri said, “Tonia, you are watching?”
“Roger that Henri, we
are good to go.”
“Excellent – you are
clear to move when safe to do so.”
“Roger that – and thank
you Uncle,” Antoinette said as Heather watched the speed increase.
“Ladies and Gentlemen.”
The room turned and
looked as Shirley stood at the microphone.
“On behalf of
LerraBella, Torware, Xavier International and Razinsky Financial I wanted to
say thank you for coming today, and for spending time with us. The band will now entertain you for the rest
of the evening, but can I also take a moment to thank the girls who have been
representing our respective companies here today, and hope you will forgive
them if they all take a very, VERY well earned break.”
The room applauded as
Pepsi, Becca, Doc, Sarah, Poppy and Jeannie all smiled, and then made their way
over to a table which had been reserved for them.
“Well done, all of
you,” Gus said as he and Ray came over, “now relax – your job is done.”
“THANK you,” Poppy said
as she stretched her legs out, Tanera smiling as she approached them.
“You deserve a small
reward for today – all of you have some special packs prepared by the sponsors,
but first, we have a meal for you,” she said as the waiters and waitresses
brought plates out and laid them in front of the six girls, then poured wine
into glasses for all of them.
“I don’t know about you
lot,” Jeannie said with a smile, “but I am bushed. I need this down time.”
“How you managed it I
have no idea,” Becca said with a smile.
“Professionalism and
practice,” Jeannie said with a grin.
“Now this Fettuccini Alfredo smells fantastic.”
“It does actually,” Doc
said. “Tastes good too. So how is the race going?”
“Well, they’ve stayed
in the middle of the field, but now...”
“Okay Toni – tyre
temperatures are looking good. How’s the
grip?”
“Holding firm – looks
as if the decision to stay on softs was the right one.”
“Good – come in on the
next pass Antoinette, and Jan can take over for her last stint.”
“Roger that,” Henri’s
niece said as Janice fastened her suit.
“How many places have
we made up?”
“Three – keep up the
good work, and stay alert,” Denice said as the car was brought in, Antoinette
jumping out as the seats were changed, and Jan strapped herself in.
“Take it steady Jan –
the plan is paying off. Tonia, are we
clear to go?”
“Gap now.”
Jan waved as she drove
off, Antoinette removing her helmet before she hugged everyone.
“That was an experience
– thank you for the opportunity,” she said as she took some water.
“Good – now rest. All we can do is make sure the others do a
good job. Sandy, you may have the honour
of the last hour.”
“Thanks,” Sandy said as
she watched from the pit wall.
“Shirley – with deep
regret, I must go, but i wanted to thank you for a truly relaxing and
exceptional day.”
“I also should thank
you for coming Anderson,” Shirley said as she and Susan stood by the
doorway. “And I am glad you have enjoyed
yourself. At the risk of spoiling it,
however...”
“I will make an
appointment to come and see you next week,” Anderson Lowe said with a
smile. “It may be that we can come to
some arrangement, and that way we are not mixing business with pleasure. Vanessa – I will see you at the board meeting
next week?”
“I look forward to it,”
Nessa said as she kissed Anderson on the cheek, smiling as he left the room.
“I think that went
rather well,” Shirley said as she looked at Susan, “and i am sure we can come
to some agreements. When he calls,
coordinate with Caroline to ensure she is available if required?”
“Jan, we have a
blow-out at turn 10 – approach with caution.”
“Seen and avoided Tonia
– what’s the position Henri?”
“You have made it into
the top third of the field, my dear,” Henri said, “and have performed
admirably. Steady progress is what we
need.”
“Roger that –
overtaking 32 now.”
“Noted – nice movement.”
“Jan,” Sandy said into
her microphone, “any closer to Stev?”
“I can’t see him –
Tonia?”
“Tracking about half a
lap ahead of you at the moment.”
“Good – he’s mine...”
“Hey – all the kiddies
safely back with respective parents?”
“With this exception,”
Annie said as she handed the Moses basket back to Pussy, Pauline sleeping
peacefully inside as the band played quietly in the background.
“She seems to have a
quiet day anyway,” Frieda said as Annie joined her, Pussy and Carina, Judith
sitting on her mother’s lap.
“So how does it taste,”
Annie said as Frieda sipped her Chardonnay.
“Wonderful – but I am
limited to one glass for the moment. I
think it has been a very profitable day however.”
“And the team?”
“Slowly making their
way through the field – I think they stand a real good chance of being in the
top five private teams.”
“One hour and ten to
go,” Heather said as Denice looked at the readouts.
“Jan – bring her
in. We need to swap out the rear tyres
and Sandy’s ready.”
“Okay – next lap,” Jan
said as Henri looked at the screen.
“the pressure and
temperature are certainly a cause for concern – Clint, prepare for a quick
change.”
“Ready and waiting,”
Clint said as Bev and Katy brought fresh mugs of coffee round, while Sands and
George sat with their mother.
“You’re going to do
finish this, Mom,” George said with a smile.
“Oh yes – and I have a
little personal score to settle as well,” Sandy said as she put her helmet on.
“Go,” Clint said as the
car came to a stop, Jan getting out as the chair and tyres were swapped. Sandy smiled as she got into her seat, and
waited for the all clear from Janine before she headed off.
“Sandy Stev’s car is
coming in for a tyre change as well, and he’s doing the last lap.”
“Excellent...”
“Forty five minutes to
go,” Ray said as he and Shirley looked at the race on the large screen.
“How are they doing,”
John Hammond said as he came over.
“I think they are
firmly in top five private,” Ray said, “and barring accident, will have proven
their...”
“SANDY! Spinout on the last but one turn – 32 has
left the track, gravel on road.”
“Roger that – everyone
else braking?”
“Looks like it – why?”
“Just interested,”
Sandy said as she shifted down two gears, took a wide line round the bend, and
then accelerated quickly out, overtaking two more cars as she did so.
“Hello Stev,” she said
to herself as she approached the next car, “I hope you’re ready...”
“Is it my imagination,”
Gus said as he came to the screen, “or is that or car in a little race of its
own.”
“It is,” Ray said,
“that’s Stev Clayton’s car in front of her.”
“Oh boy,” Cassie said
as she joined them, “they were joking a day or two ago, but this is serious
now.”
“Keep it steady,
lover,” Heather said into her microphone, “tyres are holding up well, and we’ve
got thirty minutes to go. Let’s end this
on a high note.”
“Oh I intend to,” she
heard Sandy say with a laugh, “Tonia, road ahead?”
“Get round the hairpin,
you both have the road to yourselves for the straight.”
“Right – wish me luck.”
“What’s Sandy playing
at,” Ray said as the two cars came round the bend.
“I think she’s getting
ready to – yeah, there she goes!”
As they watched, Sandy
moved out and accelerated past the car in front, speeding on down the road as
they clapped.
“Okay Sandy – you did
it,” Henri said, “now keep that position.
This has been a good day if you finish there.”
“Oh it’s been a good
day already,” Sandy said, “but I take the meaning Boss.”
Slowly, the room
gathered round the screens as the minutes counted down.
“Five minutes Sandy –
next lap will probably be your last one.”
Katherine left the
Winnebago, going with Katy, Sands, George and Bev to watch from the pit wall
with Janine and Henri.
“Come on,” Antoinette
said as she and Jan came out as well, Clint standing and looking at the
monitors with Denice and Heather.
“Two minutes...”
“Come on MOM!”
“And... Time!
Time Jan – bring it in.”
The team walked back to
the entrance to the garage, applauding Sandy as she brought the car in and
stopped.
“So, how did we do,”
she said as she got out and removed her helmet.
“Well, you’ve beaten
me,” stev said as he came over, hugging Sandy and kissing her.
“Henri?”
“One moment,” he said
as he talked to the steward, and then walked over.
“Well?”
“Fourth in the private
owner’s class, and second in the All Female team race. Ladies, I call that an excellent debut at
Sebring.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen,”
Ray said into the microphone, “please join me in congratulating the RCM team on
doing so well this year!”
As the room applauded,
Ray said “and thank you for spending today with us. We hope you had a good day, and wish you a
very good night.”
“Bed please momma.”
“All right, little
one,” Carina said as she held Judith, “let’s get you to your bed.”
“Well, I think this
calls for a celebration,” Katherine said as she went back into the Winnebago,
Bev following before they returned with several bottles of champagne and a set
of glasses.
“Water first,” Sandy
said as she grabbed a bottle and drained it, before she took one of the
bottles, shook it and sprayed it over the pit crew.
“HEY!” Bev was drenched in the drink, shaking her
head as Katy laughed.
“Let’s celebrate,” Jan
said, “once we have things locked away!”
Sunday 20th March
7 am GMT
Lardarn House
“Good morning,”
Caroline said as Ama and Nikki came in, “I trust you both slept well?”
“We did Mom,” Ama said,
“and we have our bags packed as well for later.
That smells good – is it kedgeree?”
“It is indeed,” Aileen
said with a smile, “help yourselves.”
“Good morning
everyone,” Eve said as she came in with Jo, stretching and yawning.
“Rough night?”
“Took me a while to get
off to sleep,” she said as she poured some fruit juice, and then sat down.
“Are you all right,
Eve,” Paula said as she came in, “you look as if you saw a ghost.”
Jo and Caroline looked
at Eve, who went pale for a second.
“Eve – did you happen
to see Arabella Sutton in town when you went down last night?”
“No – why?”
Tom took a seat and
sipped his coffee. “I just got a call
from the Garda – a couple walking their dog found her tied to the Hanging Tree,
with sticking plaster over her mouth.”
“Found who like that?”
“Arabella,” his father
said to John, “looks like someone took some sort of revenge on her. She had been pelted with offal, but she also
had been really scared by something.
When the officers released her, she just said she wanted to go home, and
didn’t know who had done it to her.”
“Oh dear – I must pray
for her this morning,” Ama said before she ate some of the rice and fish.
9 am GMT
Ballysatten
“So this is where
Christine resides,” Ama said as she and Nikki sat in the rear of the car.
“Indeed Miss,” Paddy
said, “Eventon is a lovely little town, but this is a real Irish country
village.”
“It certainly is
picturesque,” Nikki said as they passed a number of small farms, and then drove
down past a series of low stone cottages.
“Why are none of the
stores open?”
“It’s Sunday morning
Miss – here they stay closed until the afternoon. This is the church up ahead.”
He pulled up at the
arched gateway to the small church, where Kit was waiting, wearing a light blue
linen jacket over a knee length dress, and black shoes. She smiled as Paddy opened the car, Ama
getting out as the skirt of her white dress fell to cover her legs to her
knees. She was wearing a dark blue
jacket, and blue heels. Nikki was
wearing a grey jersey dress, dark tights and black heels, with a black leather
jacket.
“Welcome,” she said,
“thank you Paddy – I’ll drive them back after the service.”
“Of course, Miss,”
Paddy said as Ama put her bag over her shoulder.
“Come away in,” Kit
said as they made their way up to the church entrance.
"It was nice of
you to come with us Kit." Nikki whispered as they entered the church.
"Well Ama said she
wanted to come to mass, and The Gaunt's would cause a major sensation if one of
them entered a Catholic church willingly."
"I just don't
understand such bigotry," Ama shook her head.
"Well you aren't
Irish Ama." Kit smiled. "Anyway St Helen's is our parish church for
my estate, and I think you'll find this friendlier then going into town."
"It's such a
pretty church," Ama looked round.
"Thank you, we had
it restored a few years ago."
"We?" asked
Nikki.
"I mean we in the
sense of the Mahan-Gaunt's, our donations helped with the new roof, etc."
"Do you own most
of the village Kit?"
"Pretty much Ama,
most people are tenants, or they work on the estate."
"Well I notice how
polite they are to you."
"Good morning
Father." Kit held out her hand as the priest approached, "can I
present two new friends of mine. Girls meet Father Casey our parish priest here
at Ballysatten."
“A pleasure – I take it
you are visiting the big house?”
“He means Lardarn House
– but yes, Ama and Nikki are accompanying Ama’s mother, Caroline Jameson.”
“Well, welcome,” Father
Casey said with a smile. “Be seated – we
will begin shortly.”
11 am GMT
Lardarn House
"So how was mass
girls?" Paula Lardarn asked as the three girls entered the blue drawing
room.
"It was
lovely," Ama sighed.
"Well I'm glad you
enjoyed it,” Paula said, “an early lunch is being served in the dining room,
but if you want to bring it in here to eat you can."
"Will we make it in time for kick-off?" Ama said as she looked at her
watch.
"Yes we have 90
minutes, and its only a 15 minute drive," the Duke looked up from an
armchair where he was reading the Sunday papers.
"I do want to get
some souvenirs though,” Ama said, “so we must go to the club shop please."
"We will have
plenty of time to shop," John grinned as he came in wearing an Athletic
team shirt and jeans.
"I have to change,
but my clothes are in my bag." Kit came back in with a large coffee. “I’ll only need a few minutes.”
"I laid out your jeans upstairs," Caroline called from the dining
room.
"Thanks mom,"
Ama shouted back. “If you will excuse us
for a few minutes, we will change and then eat.”
“Then we’ll also be
ready for the flight,” Nikki said as they disappeared upstairs.
“Was that the other
three,” Jo said as she sat down.
“It was darling,” Mandy
said, “now, let us show you both the pictures...”
“And he actually said
the big house,” John repeated with a smile.
"Well it's not as
though Ballysatten itself is a SMALL house," Paula laughed, "people
call this place the big house, but Ballysatten runs it pretty close."
"It's far too big
for mother and me," Kit smiled, "it's why we live in the Dower House,
and Ballysatten is open to the public."
"Kit you better
put your football clothes on," Aileen wandered in, "we don't have too
much time."
"Oh and don't you
look cute," Caroline smiled as Clodagh came in dressed for going to the
game.
“Thank you,” Clodagh
said as Kit ran out, and Ama and Nikki finished their meal.
12.10 pm GMT
Clamman Park
Home ground of St Brigid’s Athletic
“Nice little shop,”
Nikki said as they stood to the side of the small portacabin, waiting until
Caroline finished her purchases and walked over.
"Okay that's three
replica shirts, three scarves, assorted programmes, other little bits, and a copy
of the club history for you darling." Caroline smiled at Ama. "That
used up most of the Euros that I have left."
"Is there
somewhere we can change John?" Nikki asked.
"Dad asked if you
could borrow the little Directors room in the grandstand, and the club chairman
said yes."
"Oh Good,"
Ama smiled. "But how did he do that?"
"Well if you
haven't noticed before, being a Duke still brings certain privileges...even in
the Irish Republic. Follow me."
Ten minutes later, the
party emerged in their shirts and scarves, and walked down the steps.
"Wow this is tiny," Ama looked round as they took their seats.
"Well I said it
wasn't the Bernabeu." John smiled.
"Who are all the
people talking to Kit and your sisters?"
"Local friends,
being away at school in England, and living mainly in Dublin when we are in
Ireland, we don't see a lot of them."
“Well, the teams are
coming out,” Nikki said as a round of applause went round the ground, and Kit
came back over with the girls.
“And we’re underway,”
John said as the referee blew the whistle, and the game began.
As the game progressed,
Ama watched with rapt attention, scrutinising every move and every pass as she
became more and more involved. She
screamed as loudly as the rest of the family when St Brigid’s opened the
scoring with a shot from twenty yards.
"Who is the tall
red-headed boy playing up front John?" Ama asked, "He's good."
"That's Donny
McDonald our star, and you are right he is very good. Tottenham have had him
over twice for trials, and the word is he will be transferred in the off-season."
"It doesn't
surprise me,” Ama said, “he'd be an excellent backup for their current
stars."
“Oh no – get in there,
stop him,” Tom shouted out as the Finn Harps striker made a run down the left
side, and then clapped as one of the defenders took the ball off him.
“Well done,” Caroline
called out as the ball was thrown in – only to groan as the Harps striker took
the ball back, dribbled to the edge of the box and scored.
“And that’s the half
time whistle,” John said, “time for the Bovril and the pies.”
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